This unique self-drive holiday takes you on an adventure to the Kruger National Park, Eswatini (Swaziland), the remote beaches of Northern KwaZulu-Natal, and the Mountain Kingdom of Lesotho (via Sani Pass). Your adventure begins in Johannesburg, where you will be met by our team to hand over your partially equipped Suzuki Jimny, which will be your vehicle for this epic journey.

Panorama Route

The first day is an easy drive to the renowned Panorama Route outside the Kruger National Park. Depending on your departure time from Johannesburg, you can enjoy the sights of the Panorama Route, including the Graskop Gorge, Mac Mac Falls, and God’s Window.

Guided Kruger Safari

Your time in the Kruger National Park begins with a two-night stay at Rhino Post Safari Lodge, set in a private concession inside the park. Your stay includes guided game drives, offering the best chance to find the Big Five with the expert skills of a local safari guide.

Kruger Self-Drive Safari

Having enjoyed two nights on an all-inclusive safari, it’s time to jump back into your Jimny to explore the Kruger National Park at your own pace on a two-night self-drive adventure, staying at the famous Lower Sabie Rest Camp and Crocodile Bridge. The southern region of the Kruger National Park is renowned for exceptional game viewing, giving you more opportunities to find epic wildlife sightings.

Explore Eswatini (Swaziland)

Leaving the Kruger National Park, head south into Eswatini as you make your way toward the beaches of KwaZulu-Natal. While this is an overnight stop, it is an excellent opportunity to explore the Mbuluzi Game Reserve, where you will spend the night. While the reserve does not have the Big Five, if time permits, you can explore the nearby Hlane Royal National Park for a chance to see rhino and a host of other wildlife.

Northern KwaZulu-Natal Coast

We recommend an early departure as your adventure takes you onto the remote coastline of Northern KwaZulu-Natal. Here you will enjoy three nights at the rustic Camp Gugs. With all meals included as well as a selection of coastal activities, this is the perfect opportunity to wind down and relax after your safari adventures. Unique excursions, including diving, whale watching, and turtle tracking, are also available in season.

Ballito

Coming out of the remote areas of Northern KwaZulu-Natal, we have included a night in the popular coastal town of Ballito for a chance to restock and refresh before heading into the mountains of Lesotho. Your stay is at the beautiful Zimbali View Guest House, where you can soak up more beautiful coastal vistas.

Sani Pass & Sani Mountain Lodge

It is time to put the Jimny to a real test. An early departure from Ballito will have you in Underberg for breakfast before you tackle the renowned Sani Pass. Sani Pass is one of South Africa’s highest mountain passes, offering remarkable mountain vistas and a unique challenge for the off-road adventurer. While Sani Pass can be a challenge, the Jimny is the perfect vehicle to help you tackle the mountain. Having scaled the pass, spend the night at Sani Mountain Lodge – home to the highest pub in Africa and out-of-this-world views.

Northern Lesotho – Maliba Lodge

Having recovered from the previous day’s adventures, it is time to head deeper into the Mountain Kingdom of Lesotho to Maliba Lodge. While the drive from Sani to Maliba is tarred, the twisty mountain roads take you over the highest road in Lesotho, offering more spectacular mountain scenery and a chance to experience Lesotho culture. Your stay at Maliba Lodge offers you the chance to relax in beautiful surroundings or get out and enjoy a mountainous hike or horseback safari.