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17 Day African Luxury Safari - The Essence of Southern Africa

Experience the highlights of Southern Africa with this incredible and luxurious 16 nights / 17 days well crafted itinerary. You will visit South Africa, Zimbabwe & Botswana in true luxury including all airport transfers, local and regional flights.

You will start with Cape Town, afterwards you will experience Sabi Sands game reserve followed by selected visits to the picturesque Panorama Route including Blyde River Canyon. From there you will fly directly to Livingstone Zambia where you will experience the Zimbabwean side of Victoria Falls. You are then transferred across the border to Chobe Botswana and you will end your magical itinerary with three nights in the Okavango Delta. You may add a few days afterwards to have a beach break to Mauritius for more relaxation.

 

Table Bay Hotel Image
Sun International Hotel VA Waterfront Cape Town
savanna wildlife sabisands
savanna wildlife lions
summerfields rose retreat and spa 1
Matetsi Private Game Reserve Victoria Falls 1
Matetsi Private Game Reserve Victoria Falls 2
chobe game lodge Botswana 2
chobe game lodge Botswana 1
eagle island lodge okavango delta botswana 51
eagle island lodge okavango delta botswana 13
Table Bay Hotel Image
Sun International Hotel VA Waterfront Cape Town
savanna wildlife sabisands
savanna wildlife lions
summerfields rose retreat and spa 1
Matetsi Private Game Reserve Victoria Falls 1
Matetsi Private Game Reserve Victoria Falls 2
chobe game lodge Botswana 2
chobe game lodge Botswana 1
eagle island lodge okavango delta botswana 51
eagle island lodge okavango delta botswana 13
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Table Bay Hotel Image
Sun International Hotel VA Waterfront Cape Town
savanna wildlife sabisands
savanna wildlife lions
summerfields rose retreat and spa 1
Matetsi Private Game Reserve Victoria Falls 1
Matetsi Private Game Reserve Victoria Falls 2
chobe game lodge Botswana 2
chobe game lodge Botswana 1
eagle island lodge okavango delta botswana 51
eagle island lodge okavango delta botswana 13
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Sabi Sands Lodges Reviews

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Melbourne, Australia
“Leopards, lions, many elephants and much more!”  

I cannot express how great my experience was at Idube, I have a lifetime of memories from the 4 nights

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“Leopards, lions, many elephants and much more!”  
Brett S via tripadvisor    Melbourne, Australia   
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I cannot express how great my experience was at Idube, I have a lifetime of memories from the 4 nights we stayed there. Highly recommended.

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Boston, Massachusetts
"OY!" Watch That Charging Rhino!  

Fabulous three days at Idube Game Reserve. Lovely people. amazing food. So many highlights. But one stood out. When we

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"OY!" Watch That Charging Rhino!  
Charles520    Boston, Massachusetts   
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Fabulous three days at Idube Game Reserve. Lovely people. amazing food. So many highlights. But one stood out. When we surprised a rhino and it charged our Land Cruiser, leave it to our guide, Brogan, to take care of business. With a sharp, "OY!", the rhino stopped it charge, turn around and trotted back to its mate. Note that the wifi was only available in the office when we went, but it's due for an upgrade any date. Pro-tip: No cell coverage, but the office has a cell tower booster. Turn off your wifi, and your phone will pick up the cell booster if you have a local phone or international plan

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United Kingdom
“Felt like home, but better”  

We absolutely loved this resort. The staff is so warm and welcoming, the rooms and public areas are beautifully and

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“Felt like home, but better”  
Stacy C via tripadvisor    United Kingdom   
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We absolutely loved this resort. The staff is so warm and welcoming, the rooms and public areas are beautifully and comfortably decorated, the food was delicious (I'm a San Francisco foodie pescetarian and absolutely loved the food/presentation), and the game drives were unforgettable. Don't miss the bush walk--we walked through a field of butterflies, saw all kinds of animal tracks, and enjoyed a different view of the landscape we'd been driving through all week. I would also highly recommend visiting the Thornybush Community Project gardens with Gavin, where some of the beautiful food served in Sabi Sand resorts is grown by local women as part of a community collective. We also visited a school, which had an incredible impact on us. I loved Simbambili--a little piece of my heart is still there

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New Jersey, USA
“Absolutely the best experience.”  

Highly recommended. Amazing in many ways. Great safari experience. Unsurpassed food. Kind staff. Two safaris a day for three days.

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“Absolutely the best experience.”  
podrozniczka60 via tripadvisor    New Jersey, USA   
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Highly recommended. Amazing in many ways. Great safari experience. Unsurpassed food. Kind staff. Two safaris a day for three days. One extra walking safari midday. Excellent game viewing. Night time star gazing by the fire. Trip to the village. Great amenities. Boma, Observation points. Nice little library. The staff will walk you to your cabin at night. Our first time here was 2006 but this is the place to come for the best safari lodge experience.
This is the place to come back to.

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New York City, New York
“Incredible experience at Sabi Sabi”  

We just came back from our first ever safari trip. We went not knowing what to expect. After our first

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“Incredible experience at Sabi Sabi”  
Zack T    New York City, New York   
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We just came back from our first ever safari trip. We went not knowing what to expect. After our first game drive, we got to know why Sabi Sands Lodges are the best when it comes to big five game viewing. We managed to view all of the big five on one day.

The accommodation was perfect and the staff were exceptionally friendly. We are hooked, we will certainly visit Sabi Sabi again, very soon.

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San Diego, California
MalaMala is the best  

We had a great overall experience at Mala Mala. We saw abundant animals and several exciting interactions between them. Our

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MalaMala is the best  
Shannon S    San Diego, California   
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We had a great overall experience at Mala Mala. We saw abundant animals and several exciting interactions between them. Our guide was knowledgeable and nice (the others in our group had a guide who had had incredible intuition for finding animals and we benefited from it). The rooms are nice, beautiful and comfortable. The food was good/okay... We were there for three nights and it seemed like there were a lot of repeats between the meals. The staff were all friendly and the customer service was great!

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Windermere, United Kingdom
“Look no further”  

If you are planning a trip to S.A. And want to spend time in the bush, then Sabi Sands is


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“Look no further”  
angiep389 via tripadvisor    Windermere, United Kingdom   
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If you are planning a trip to S.A. And want to spend time in the bush, then Sabi Sands is a must. We have been travelling to to South Africa every year for the past 12 years and stayed at many game reserves including the Krugar many times. This year we saved up hard and achieved our dream, to stay in Sabi Sands. All that I can say it's Well Worth every penny, the reserve is just something else! It's the best and it's a must, forget the rest push the the boat out and and stay at in Sabi Sands.. We chose Elephant Plains due to our budget. It was wonderful food fantastic, staff brilliant, service first class.
We saw the big five for the the first time in 12 years....
So if you are looking for a safari holiday then look no further this place is the best.
Memories we will never forget.

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London, UK
“Breathtaking scenery, service and amazing experience.”  

I don't usually write reviews however, I travelled to Lion Sands with my girlfriend in March 2017, it was her

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“Breathtaking scenery, service and amazing experience.”  
Raymondo84 via tripadvisor    London, UK   
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I don't usually write reviews however, I travelled to Lion Sands with my girlfriend in March 2017, it was her birthday and I was planning to propose. From the moment the booking was made until the last minute we left the location the service was impecable.

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Maennedorf, Switzerland
“A continuation of the dream”  

After spending 2 nights at the Dulini River Lodge we spent 2 nights at the Dulini Lodge. Even though both

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“A continuation of the dream”  
bscyb via tripadvisor    Maennedorf, Switzerland   
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After spending 2 nights at the Dulini River Lodge we spent 2 nights at the Dulini Lodge. Even though both Lodges are in the same Reserve and very close they offer a different athmosphere. The Dulini Lodge gives you a stronger "Africa feeling" in terms of decoration and setup in my view.

The bungalows are very spacious and well equipped.The welcome is kind and warm and the staff is amazing. They provided me with a special birthday dinner which made the stay even more memorable.

The game drives with the Ranger Fred and our tracker May where an experience. We saw a lot and as haveing been on Safari before we received so much more indepth information since we did not have to worry about seeing all the big 5 (which we saw anyway).

Will try to be back whenever possible

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Hampshire,UK
“Absolutely fantastic”  

Everything wonderful, just come back from part of Titan Tour. We saw the big five and so much more. Couldn't

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“Absolutely fantastic”  
DillonHampshire_UK via tripadvisor    Hampshire,UK   
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Everything wonderful, just come back from part of Titan Tour. We saw the big five and so much more. Couldn't fault it and would love to go back. You have to be there to believe how good it is, and how close you get to what is after all wild animals. I could have almost touched one of the lions we saw!!

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London, United Kingdom
“You will not be disappointed...its amazing”  

It's hard to put into words what a wonderful place this is , even before you arrive the staff are


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“You will not be disappointed...its amazing”  
stuBamville via tripadvisor    London, United Kingdom   
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It's hard to put into words what a wonderful place this is , even before you arrive the staff are extremely helpful with information and when you arrive they make you feel part of the lodge community not just a guest (truly welcoming).

The staff are genuinely interested in your adventure and happiness joining in stories and experiences of each game drive .Be prepared for the early starts 5.30 am game drive however believe me this is the best time of the day to see the animals and is a magical time to see the bush. The lodge and rooms are to a very high standard with all rooms having great views and the best bit being no fences !!!! YOU REALLY ARE IN THE BUSH 🙂 .
This is without doubt a luxury Safari

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Omaha, Nebraska
Awesome experience  

This was a great experience overall. The resort was nice and homely. Our ranger Kelsey and tracker Bennett were very

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Awesome experience  
latif8109    Omaha, Nebraska   
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This was a great experience overall. The resort was nice and homely. Our ranger Kelsey and tracker Bennett were very knowledgeable and happy to answer any questions that we had. The game drives were exciting and the search for the leopard was one of the highlights of the trip. The rooms were spacious, and the food was almost unending. The only downside, and understandably so, was the inability to move from one room to another, after dark. While our sons were older and able to stay on their own, families with slightly younger children may have to stay in one chalet. Strongly recommend it!!

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London, United Kingdom
“Good to be back!”  

A wonderful visit that was nothing short of perfect. Amazing game sightings, the best I've had (and it is always

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“Good to be back!”  
Meohmy68 via tripadvisor    London, United Kingdom   
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A wonderful visit that was nothing short of perfect. Amazing game sightings, the best I've had (and it is always good), our Ranger and Tracker were great fun and very knowledgable, the staff were on the ball and the atmosphere and mood relaxed and attentive. My 6th visit, and great that Ulusaba is back to its best, thank you!

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Hobart, Australia
“Couldn't have been better!”  

My daughter and I spent 3 nights at Notten's in April 2017 and we loved everything about it! We loved

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“Couldn't have been better!”  
Mrs V via tripadvisor    Hobart, Australia   
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My daughter and I spent 3 nights at Notten's in April 2017 and we loved everything about it! We loved the fact that we were teamed up with the same driver/tracker/four other guests in the same car over the course of all the days - we had such fun together and really got involved in trying to spot the animals. And we were rewarded with multiple leopard sightings and the other big 5, as well as all the other beautiful animals - zebra, giraffes, kudu, impala etc - and many birds. The rooms - including outdoor shower, dining area, food, pool, gift shop, massage, the lovely candle light (and lack of electric lighting) and special sundowner by the river were all fabulous. We felt so relaxed and welcomed. The staff were professional and friendly. Nothing was too much trouble. They went the extra mile to engage with my 9 year old daughter. This place suited us perfectly. It was top class without being pretentious. Worth every penny - and actually better value than some other lodges. Recommended without hesitation. We hope to return one day. Thank you to all - Dale, Suzie, Gift, Desmond, Tulani, Riddent, Joe and everyone else (sorry if names are miss-spelt).

Stayed April 2017, travelled with family

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Johannesburg, South Africa
“Fantastic Bush Experience”  

Our family just spend 3 days in the Cottage.
The safaris were outstanding led by our intelligent and passionate guide


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“Fantastic Bush Experience”  
Czerno via tripadvisor    Johannesburg, South Africa   
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Our family just spend 3 days in the Cottage.
The safaris were outstanding led by our intelligent and passionate guide Michael. We saw so much and learnt so much in the "Land That Time Forgot". Leopard with Waterbuck kill, wild dogs, Lion and Elephant swimming and wrestling in a dam and so much more!!
The camp manager Gary was so welcoming and friendly. His enthusiasm for the bush is infectious. Thanks for a wonderful time in a special place.
Also thanks for arranging a truly unique bat sighting!!!!
Stayed May 2017, travelled with family

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Lillehammer, Norway
“Perfect place for safari”  

This was a perfect place for a safari. We stayed in one of the two suites, and this was perfect.

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“Perfect place for safari”  
EvMe via tripadvisor    Lillehammer, Norway   
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This was a perfect place for a safari. We stayed in one of the two suites, and this was perfect. The game drives were so exiting. Of 8 game drives we saw leopards at 7 of them.
The staff were so friendly and helpful. The food was nice. The skills of the tracker and ranger was fantastic. It was so nice to follow how they read the tracks in the sand and bushes. We saw the big 5 and a lot more. If would go back? YES

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Atlanta, Georgia
Loved Nkorho!  

Loved our time at Nkorho. Our guide, Matt, and tracker, David, were extremely professional and knowledgeable. The safari rides were

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Loved Nkorho!  
bgrove    Atlanta, Georgia   
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Loved our time at Nkorho. Our guide, Matt, and tracker, David, were extremely professional and knowledgeable. The safari rides were incredible and we certainly saw everything we came to see. The entire staff works hard to ensure a great experience for their guests. Our suite was great, very clean and comfortable . The swing was cozy on the front deck! Enjoyed our meals and evenings in the bar. Thanks to all for a great time!

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Stockholm - Sweeden
“A memory for a lifetime”  

I can´t stop thinking about my visit at Arathusa. Just want to go back. It was so amazing in every

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“A memory for a lifetime”  
Twirly72 via tripadvisor    Stockholm - Sweeden   
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I can´t stop thinking about my visit at Arathusa. Just want to go back. It was so amazing in every way. The lodgin itself was so nice and luxury, the food excellent and you really had everything you could possible need.


Price Includes

* Luxury accommodation * All airport transfers * Meal plan as per itinerary * Sightseeing & tour as per itinerary * All entrance fees & conservation fees * English speaking driver/guide

Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Cape Town
Upon arrival at Cape Town airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel in the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront.

The remainder of the day is at leisure so you can relax after your long flight.

Overnight @ Table Bay Sun Hotel

Day 2,3 & 4: Cape Town
Breakfast is included daily, you will have 2 full day tours including Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, Boulders beach penguin colony, wine tasting at three different estates and a visit to Table Mountain.

You will have a full day at leisure so you may enjoy your time and explore the rest of the Cape region at your own pace. We can assist you with Shark Cage Diving, Helicopter Flights over the Cape or Whale Watching tours. The choice is yours! city.

Overnight @ Table Bay Sun Hotel

Day 5: Cape Town / Kruger National Park

After a hearty breakfast, you will be transferred to Cape Town airport for your direct flight to Kruger National Park. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your luxurious safari lodge in the heart of Sabi Sands game reserve. Your safari at Sabi Sands is considered the highlight of your trip. Here Big Five and much more is what you can expect including luxury accommodation, a fine selection of local drinks and exclusive & expertly guided safari activities (2 game drives per/day)

Overnight @ Savanna Private Reserve – Sabi Sands Game Reserve

Day 6 & 7:  Sabi Sands Game Reserve

Experience the slow pace of being on a safari and enjoy every moment with private & luxurious accommodation, amazing cuisine and breathtaking wildlife moments.

2 full days at Savanna including all meals, local drinks and 2 game drives per/day. Don’t forget to request your guided bush walk to work out those extra calories J

Overnight @ Savanna Private Reserve – Sabi Sands Game Reserve

Day 8: Kruger National Park / Panorama Route

After your morning game drive and breakfast, you will be collected from the lodge and you will be visiting the highlights of the Panorama Route (Three Rondavels lookout Point, Bourk’s Luck Potholes & some of the waterfalls in this beautiful region.

Overnight: Summerfields Rose Retreat & Spa - Hazyview

Day 9: Hazyview / Victoria Falls

After an early breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Victoria Falls.

On arrival, you will be met and assisted then transferred to your luxury accommodation where you will spend the next three nights exploring the multitude of activities and wildlife in the region.

You have the choice of going on a sundowner cruise on the Zambezi River or going on a sunset game drive followed by dinner.

Overnight: Matetsi River Lodge - Victoria Falls

Day 10 & 11: Victoria Falls

Two full days at Matetsi River Lodge. Experience the magic at Matetsi Victoria Falls: the ultimate safari experience and idyllic accommodation retreat from which to visit the largest waterfall on earth. Experience Matetsi magic from sunrise safaris to sunset boat cruises. There is a wide range of activities available within Matetsi Private Game Reserve, and Victoria Falls town offers additional activities catering for the most discerning culture seekers through to avid adventure enthusiasts.

Overnight: Matetsi River Lodge - Victoria Falls

Day 12: Victoria Falls / Chobe National Park

After breakfast, you will be transferred across the border to Botswana where you will spend two nights at Chobe Game Lodge in the heart of Chobe National Park including all meals, selected beverages and 2 safari activities per/day.

Overnight: Chobe Game Lodge - Botswana

Day 13: Chobe National Park - Botswana

Spend you day enjoying incredible wildlife at Chobe National Park with game drives and river safaris including all meals, fine selection of drinks and luxury accommodation.

Overnight: Chobe Game Lodge - Botswana

Day 14: Chobe National Park / Okavango Delta

After your morning game activity and breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your light aircraft transfer to the Okavango Delta.

Overnight: Eagle Island Camp - Botswana

 Day 15 & 16: Okavango Delta - Botswana

Spend 2 full days enjoying your unrivalled wildlife activates and luxury accommodation in one of the most remote wildlife reserves on the planet.

Overnight: Eagle Island Camp - Botswana

Day 17: Okavango Delta / Johannesburg / Departure

After your morning safari activity and breakfast you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Johannesburg where you will connect with your international flight

End of Itinerary

** Guests can add a few days in Mauritius or Mozambique to end this incredible itinerary with a luxury beach break.

What to pack:

- Comfortable light clothing for summer months, including a swimming costume.

- A very warm jacket for game drives during winter – conditions can be chilly!

- Walking shoes and socks.

- Sunhat, sunglasses and sunscreen (the African sun is harsh for the unprotected body).

- Camera and plenty of film/ memory space.

- A good book.

ENQUIRY FORM - 17 DAY ESSENCE OF SOUTHERN AFRICA