Embarking on the “Journeys: Explore Kruger & Victoria Falls” tour with my mum was an unforgettable experience, offering a blend of wildlife adventures and cultural insights without the need for camping—a perfect choice for us.
Arrival in Johannesburg
We chose to arrive in Johannesburg a day before the tour commenced. This early arrival is advisable for two main reasons:
- Flight Contingencies: It provides a buffer against potential flight delays, ensuring you don’t miss the tour’s start.
- Cultural Exploration: It offers an opportunity to explore significant sites, such as Nelson Mandela’s house in Soweto, providing a deeper understanding of South Africa’s rich history.
In hindsight, if time permits, I recommend considering the extended version of this tour that begins in Cape Town. Fellow travellers who started there spoke highly of their experiences, and I wished we had the time to include it.
Journey to Greater Kruger Area
The following morning, we embarked on our journey to the Greater Kruger Area, with scenic stops at notable landmarks:
- Blyde River Canyon: Renowned as one of the world’s largest green canyons, offering breathtaking vistas.
- Bourke’s Luck Potholes: Fascinating geological formations resulting from centuries of water erosion.
Safari in Kruger National Park
Our first safari drive in Kruger National Park was exhilarating. We were fortunate to spot four of the Big Five:
- Elephants: Majestic and social creatures.
- Leopards: Very shy, making sightings particularly special.
- Buffalo: African Buffalo, funniest looking of the 5.
- Rhinos: Rare and endangered, a privilege to see.
Kruger can be bustling, with multiple vehicles converging at popular animal sightings, which can sometimes limit viewing angles. Additionally, park regulations mandate that safari vehicles have roofs, which can slightly restrict the open-air experience.
Karongwe Private Game Reserve
Karongwe Private Game Reserve was a highlight of our trip. The experience here felt more intimate and exclusive:
- Open-Top Vehicles: Provided unobstructed views and a closer connection to nature.
- Limited Vehicle Presence: A maximum of two vehicles per animal sighting ensured a serene experience.
- Off-Road Adventures: The ability to venture off established paths allowed for closer encounters.
A once-in-a-lifetime experience was walking alongside cheetahs. Observing these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat was incredible. We also completed our Big Five sightings here, encountering a pride of lions with cubs.
A memorable moment was enjoying morning coffee by a lake, watching hippos surface and submerge—a serene and surreal experience.
Return to Johannesburg
After our enriching safari experiences, we returned to Johannesburg for a night. Some group members continued their adventures to Namibia, while others, like us, proceeded to Victoria Falls.
Victoria Falls
Flying into Victoria Falls, we were greeted by the sight of mist rising from the falls—a teaser of what was to come.
That evening, we participated in a Zimbabwean Family Dinner. This involved visiting a local market to understand daily life and then sharing a meal in a family home. Engaging in open conversations about culture and traditions provided profound insights.
Chobe National Park Excursion
We opted for the full-day excursion to Chobe National Park in Botswana—a decision I highly recommend. The landscape here contrasts with South Africa’s, and the water safari offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities. While we didn’t witness elephants bathing, it’s a possibility.
Victoria Falls Tour
Touring Victoria Falls was an amazing experience. The sheer power and beauty of the falls are mesmerising. We hoped to take a helicopter ride for an aerial perspective, but weather conditions didn’t permit. Staying an extra night might increase the chances of experiencing this.
Tips and Insights
- Best Time to Visit: Timing is crucial for optimal waterfall viewing. Post-rainy season, around April, offers a full and impressive cascade. During the rainy season, the spray can obscure views, while in summer, the flow may be less dramatic.
- The Big Five: The term “Big Five” refers to the five most challenging animals to hunt on foot, not their size. They are the lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo.
- Visa Requirements: For Zimbabwe, it’s advisable to obtain a visa upon arrival. If planning the Chobe excursion, ensure you get a double-entry visa, as you’ll be exiting and re-entering Zimbabwe. Carrying some USD in cash is a must for visa fees.
- Safety Considerations: Traveling with a tour group provides added security, especially in areas like Johannesburg. With local guides and organised transport, we felt safe throughout our journey.
This tour was a bucket-list adventure that I wholeheartedly recommend. The blend of wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, and the comfort of non-camping accommodations made it ideal for travellers seeking both adventure and ease.
View tour here: Journeys: Explore Kruger & Victoria Falls
Planning a trip to Southern Africa? If you would like to read more about my trip for more tips, you can see all my Africa blogs here.
