Southern Africa Explorer Mountains to Coast

Southern Africa Explorer Mountains to Coast

Duration
15 days
Group Size
16 people
Price
From £4495
Region
Africa
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Overview

Embark on an adventure beginning in Johannesburg, from where we will be transported to the Northern Drakensberg. Nestled amidst the peaks of the Drakensberg mountain range, The Cavern Resort & Spa offers a cozy retreat with a rich history of hospitality and community support. Explore the rugged beauty of the Drakensberg with expert-led hikes or indulge in leisurely activities like tennis and horse riding. Or take an optional, breathtaking hot air balloon ride over the scenic landscape. Venture southward to the Midlands Meander, stopping at charming shops and marvelling at Howick Falls. Pay homage to Nelson Mandela at the Capture Site before retiring to our accommodation in Underberg/Himeville. Experience the thrill of crossing from South Africa into Lesotho via the iconic, nearly 3,000m high, Sani Pass and immerse ourselves in the vibrant culture of a traditional Basotho village.

We continue our journey with a safari adventure in Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park, where we can expect to spot the ‘Big 5’ (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo). Unwind at Forest Lodge in St Lucia, before indulging in optional snorkeling at Cape Vidal and a scenic boat cruise along the St Lucia Estuary. Journey to Kosi Bay, near the Mozambican border, for relaxation and a chance to witness the remarkable phenomenon of turtle nesting. Alternatively, indulge in snorkeling, birding, or hiking. Cross into Mozambique and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Maputo, sampling its culinary delights and exploring its historic landmarks. A day trip to the Maputo Special Reserve offers encounters with diverse wildlife amidst pristine natural surroundings. Delve into the cultural tapestry of Maputo or explore the historic neighbourhood of Mafalala before crossing into Eswatini. Nestled in the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, immerse yourself in nature and local village life, and take a walking safari.

We return to South Africa from where we stay at a comfortable lodge in the Mpumalanga Lowveld region, our base from which to visit the Kruger National Park, renowned for its rich biodiversity and iconic ‘Big 5’. We also journey along the Panorama Route, marvelling at the awe-inspiring sights of Blyde River Canyon and Graskop Gorge before we head back to Johannesburg, cherishing the memories of an unforgettable Southern African odyssey.

Highlights

Included/Excluded

All accommodation as per the itinerary
Services of English-speaking guide / tour leader
Meals as listed (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, D – Dinner)
Travel by private minibus or safari vehicle
All excursions and wildlife viewing safaris and activities as stated in the itinerary
Entrance fees for sites listed as part of the itinerary
International flights (contact us for expert advice and a quote)
Airport taxes
Travel Insurance
Drinks
Meals not included in the itinerary
Optional excursions and activities
Visa, if required
Tips – at own discretion

Tour Ratings

Fitness: 3/5
Unexplored: 3/5
Culture: 4/5
History: 3/5
Wildlife: 5/5
Tour-pace: 4/5
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Map and Tour Itinerary

Arrive in Johannesburg and transfer to your hotel for a restful start. Journey into the Northern Drakensberg for scenic views, hiking, and birdwatching at a family-run lodge. Continue to the Southern Drakensberg via the Midlands Meander, with stops at Howick Falls and the Mandela Capture Site. Cross the dramatic Sani Pass into Lesotho for mountain vistas and a visit to a traditional Basotho village. Spot the Big 5 on safari in Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park, snorkel at Cape Vidal, and cruise through hippo-filled estuaries. Travel to Kosi Bay for optional turtle watching, then cross into Mozambique for beaches, city tours, and the wild beauty of Maputo Special Reserve. In Eswatini, enjoy a walking safari in Mlilwane and cultural insights in a local village. Wrap up in South Africa with a full-day Kruger safari, scenic stops along the Panorama Route, and return to Johannesburg for departure.

Itinerary Highlights
Touch Down in Johannesburg: A Relaxing Start to Your Southern Africa Journey

Arrive in Johannesburg and make your way to the Southern Sun OR Tambo Airport Hotel via a quick and convenient shuttle. With plenty of time to unwind, today is all about relaxing and adjusting to the local time zone.

Scenic Escape: Into the Heart of the Northern Drakensberg Mountains

After a hearty breakfast, journey towards the Northern Drakensberg, where dramatic mountain peaks surround you. The Cavern Resort & Spa offers a warm welcome, rich with local charm.

Hiking, Horse Rides & Hot Air Balloons: Adventure in the Drakensberg

embrace the Drakensberg’s natural beauty with a hike through its lush, varied terrain. For those seeking less strenuous activities, the resort offers tennis, lawn bowls, and even the chance to soar over the mountains in a hot air balloon at sunrise.

Midlands Meander: Waterfalls, History & Local Flavour en Route South

Leaving the Northern Drakensberg, the journey south takes you along the picturesque Midlands Meander. Discover the majestic Howick Falls, steeped in local legends, before visiting the Nelson Mandela Capture Site.

Lesotho via Sani Pass: High-Altitude Thrills and Basotho Culture

Venture into Lesotho via the thrilling Sani Pass, one of the most scenic 4x4 routes in Africa. After crossing into this mountainous kingdom, enjoy a drink at the highest pub in Africa

Dates and Prices

Tours & Dates
Destination Tour Code Start End Trip Status Pricing
Per person
Southern Africa Explorer - Mountains to Coast

SAE/130925 Sep 13, 2025

Saturday
Sep 28, 2025

Sunday
Guaranteed £4,495.00

Single Room Supplement: £435.00
Book Now
Southern Africa Explorer - Mountains to Coast

SAE/220126 Jan 22, 2026

Thursday
Feb 06, 2026

Friday
Guaranteed £4,495.00

Single Room Supplement: £435.00
Book Now
Southern Africa Explorer - Mountains to Coast

SAE/120426 Apr 12, 2026

Sunday
Apr 27, 2026

Monday
Guaranteed £4,495.00

Single Room Supplement: £435.00
Book Now
Southern Africa Explorer - Mountains to Coast

SAE/120926 Sep 12, 2026

Saturday
Sep 27, 2026

Sunday
Guaranteed £4,495.00

Single Room Supplement: £435.00
Book Now

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Feedback from our Travellers

Essential Info

Foreign Office Travel Warnings

Before booking your tour, please familiarise yourself with the country specific information provided by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) – www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice. This includes important information such as latest immigration requirements, and details of any travel advisories.

We constantly monitor the advice posted by the FCDO. In particular we will always advise clients of any travel warnings. At present there are no warnings against travel to the parts of Sri Lanka that we visit on this tour. Please feel free to contact us should you have any specific concerns or would like to know in detail what measures are being taken to ensure visits remain trouble free and without incident.

It should be noted that this information applies to British citizens. Other nationals are asked to check the current position of their respective government.

Visa Information

At the time of writing British, US and Australian nationals require a visa for a tourist visit to Sri Lanka. For further details please visit the applicable website shown below.

British Nationals – www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice 

US Nationals – travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel.html 

Australian Nationals – www.smartraveller.gov.au

Other nationals should check the latest requirements with the authorities in their home country, or with the destination’s nearest embassy or consulate.

Should you require any documentation to support a visa application, such as a letter of invitation, upon request this will be provided by Undiscovered Destinations after receipt of your balance payment.

As it is the travellers’ responsibility to ensure that they meet all entry requirements it is essential that you check the rules and any other conditions at the time of booking and again when making your balance payment. In addition, we would strongly advise that you make a final check around two weeks before your arrival. This is important as requirements can change at short notice. Undiscovered Destinations, when possible, will provide guidance about entry rules, but in the first instance please contact the relevant authorities, including the applicable embassy or consulate for assistance.

Passports

It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of a full passport, valid for at least six months after the date of return to your country.

We strongly advise that your passport contains a minimum of two blank pages, as this may be a requirement of the local immigration authorities. In addition, certain countries will stipulate that the two blank pages are opposite each other. If you are unable to meet these requirements, you may be refused boarding by your airline or denied entry by the immigration authorities.

For specific information about the requirements for your destination please check with the country’s embassy or consulate. Alternatively, UK citizens can visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.

Vaccinations & Protection

As with travel to most parts of Asia, we strongly recommend that you contact your doctor’s surgery or a specialist travel clinic for up-to-date information, advice, and the necessary vaccinations. For a visit of less than one month, almost certainly you will be advised to have immunisations against the following: Diphtheria and Tetanus, Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Meningitis. The use of a DEET-containing insect repellent is highly recommended.

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or purchased in your home country can be different in other countries. If you are travelling with prescription or over-the-counter medicine, travellers from the UK can refer to the guidance provided by the National Travel Health Network & Centre and published on the Travel Health Pro website. For further information on the legal status of a specific medicine, you will need to contact the embassy, high commission or consulate of the country or territory that you are travelling to.

Travel Insurance

It is a condition of booking with Undiscovered Destinations that you have adequate valid travel insurance. It is your responsibility to arrange appropriate travel insurance and ensure you have read and understood the full terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to ensure that you are covered for all activities you intend to undertake whilst on the tour, including all optional activities. Your Insurance Policy must fully cover you for medical expenses (including cover for Covid-19 conditions) and emergency repatriation to your home country and be valid for the entire duration of your holiday.

Local Conditions

When travelling to our destinations, many of which are underdeveloped and untouristed by mainstream tourism, a good deal of patience and a sense of humour is an important attribute. This will help you to cope with problems such as ageing or poor infrastructure and when maintenance may not be as high as we would always like.

The choice of appropriate accommodation in some towns and cities (particularly the smaller places) can be limited, and standards of both service and maintenance can be less than polished. Guides and other service providers in some of our destinations do not always have the decades of collective practice and experience that their counterparts in more developed countries can draw upon. Although we will always try and resolve any issues as quickly as possible, on occasions there may be some shortcomings which no matter how hard we try will be unavoidable.

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