Southern Africa: Kruger, Victoria Falls & Zimbabwe National Parks

Much like the majestic wildlife on the Discovery Channel, Hwange National Park offers a profound view of some of these incredible creatures and nature's ever-changing beauty. We invite you to experience the wild heart of Africa in Hwange and discover your own connection to its serene landscapes.

From high up in the vehicle, you gain an additional perspective on the circle of life in Africa. You start to notice the small dung beetles waddling their way through the dirt, their role in the ecosystem just as crucial as the lion, the giraffe, and the elephant. Begin your morning on a guided safari drive to discover Africa's creatures, and after a bush lunch head back out there to observe some wildlife.

Hwange National Park is renowned for its immense elephant population. Witnessing these majestic creatures in person is an unforgettable experience. Try to observe them from the safari vehicles as they drink at the watering hole and go about their daily routines.

In most cultures across the globe, waterfalls symbolize peace and serenity. They demonstrate at once power, and tranquility. Waterfalls are nature's reminder that things are in an ever constant state of movement and change. See the beauty for yourself upon arrival at Victoria Falls. Feel the mist, listen to the thunder of the water, and feel the power of these falls shuddering past the rocks.

Mosi-oa-Tunya, originally known as Victoria Falls, translates to "the smoke that thunders." These words alone evoke the sensation of cold mist on your face and the resounding roar. Choose your adventure and experience the history of the falls or the loving hospitality of the local community.

Step back in time to a scene straight from a hundred years ago-a turn of the century explorers camp setup. Sip a gin and tonic around the fire listening to a story of those who explored this very spot before you were alive. Sleep in the bush with the call of lions in the distance and the sound of your breath keeping time.

From a morning with golden light casting a glow over Chobe National Park and its abundant wildlife to gliding along the shoreline of the Chobe River, this day allows you to be fully present in the landscapes of the park. Search for the “big five” and the many bird species that call the wetlands home. Cap off the experiences today with some time to freshen up at the lodge and an included group dinner at camp this evening.

Johannesburg is the gateway to Kruger National Park, but there is plenty to see and do in the city before you hit the road tomorrow. This evening enjoy a group dinner.

What does it take to be a guide in South Africa? How do you learn the way each animal leaves its mark on its surroundings? What is it like being on foot in the African bush at dusk and dawn? Ecotraining is the leading guide training company in Africa and your African journey starts with an exclusive two day experience learning what it takes to be a guide in these iconic national parks and conservancies. This is not just a safari-this is an opportunity to step into another life for a brief two days. Ecotraining promises to leave their guides "passionate guardians of nature" and we guarantee you will gain the same passion during your time in the Pridelands.

Begin the day at dawn, heading out on foot with your guides in search of elephant, buffalo and zebra. Breakfast is served out in the bush with wildlife free to move about while you dine. Safari drives in the afternoon focus on animal identification and behaviour with an extra focus on situational awareness when near large wildlife.

Kruger National Park is so vast and so full of wildlife, history and culture that travellers often return again and again, uncovering new discoveries each time. If this is your first or twenty-first time, safari drives and sundowners never get old. Your day begins with a safari drive en route to the lodge. Another afternoon safari drive makes for an incredible first day in the park.

Kruger at dawn is unlike anything else on earth. Animals are waking and so must you, if you want to have the best chance to witness their behaviour first thing in the morning. Accompany your local guides on a walking safari through the national park.

Known for good food and wine, Stellenbosch offers a welcome contrast to the safari adventures thus far. Set amongst the verdant green vineyards and with the towering Drakenstein mountains in distance, its easy to imagine just sitting and just "being" in this peaceful of a place. But first things first-dig into a three course dinner at Mertia restaurant, known for their colourful plates inspired by what grows locally. Your hardest choice today is whether its wine or coffee after dinner.

Stellenbosch is known for its beautiful vineyards. With an e-bike, you will be able to pedal as much-or as little-as you wish while exploring the wine lands and small towns between Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. Sample wine and gourmet snacks but don't worry about filling up, because there will be a picnic lunch on a green lawn overlooking the scenery.

Spend the day exploring the beauty and wildlife of the Cape Peninsula. Travel through the heart of the region, crossing the dramatic route of Ou Kaapse Weg with sweeping views across False Bay and the Cape Flats. The road winds back to the Atlantic coast at Hout Bay, a working harbour framed by rugged mountains. Enjoy a true taste of the natural beauty found here.

Without doubt the most recognizable symbol of Cape Town, Table Mountain rises behind the city touching the clouds with its flat top. Reach new heights one of two ways. Join a local guide and hike through the Platteklip Gorge, Table Mountain's oldest and most frequented route. If you are ready to kick back and relax, join your CEO in a cable car ride to the top.

Your adventure comes to an end, and you can depart at any time today.