8-Day Best of South Africa — Big Five Safaris, Panorama Route & Cape Town Highlights
An 8-day route linking Johannesburg’s history, Big 5 safaris in Kruger and private reserves, the Panorama Route’s dramatic viewpoints, and Cape Town’s coastal highlights. Expect dawn game drives, geological vistas and time to explore the Mother City.
The Experience
Before You Go
Malaria area prep
Kruger-area segments sit in malaria-risk zones — consult a travel clinic and pack prophylactics if recommended.
Sun and heat management
Highveld sun and Cape Town winds require sun protection and a breathable hat; reapply sunscreen throughout the day.
Binoculars and camera
A good pair of binoculars and a zoom lens make wildlife viewing and landscape photography far more rewarding.
Wildlife safety
Always follow ranger instructions on game drives — never exit vehicles near large mammals and keep noise low.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Dullstroom for trout streams and a quiet lunch stop en route to Johannesburg
- •Early-morning hideouts at private lodges for photography without the mid-day glare
Wildlife
- •African elephant
- •lion
Conservation Note
Many private reserves and national parks participate in anti-poaching and community development programs; choose operators supporting local conservation fees and ethical wildlife viewing.
The route threads apartheid- and colonial-era sites in Johannesburg with longstanding conservation histories in Kruger, where community-led reserves now partner with lodges.
What to Bring
Binoculars (8x–10x)Essential
Improves wildlife detection at distance during dawn and dusk drives.
Light layers and windproof jacketEssential
Highveld mornings and Cape Town evenings can be cool and breezy.
Sun hat and sunscreenEssential
Protects against strong sun at higher altitudes and on open vehicles.
Daypack with water reservoir
Keeps water, camera and personal items accessible on transfer days and excursions.
Common Questions
Are internal flights included between Johannesburg and Cape Town?
No — the itinerary notes that the Johannesburg to Cape Town flight is on your own arrangements; transfers to/from airports are included around tour dates.
Do I need malaria medication for this tour?
Parts of the Kruger and Lowveld region are malaria zones; consult a healthcare provider for personalized prophylaxis advice before travel.
How much walking is involved?
The trip centers on game drives and short guided walks; long hikes are optional in Cape Town, so general mobility is sufficient.
Are park and conservation fees covered?
Some conservation and entrance fees (e.g., Kruger and Panorama Route points) are included as listed, but optional activities like Table Mountain cableway or Boulders Beach access may be extra.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 days
Location
Johannesburg, Gauteng
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; expect early mornings, periods of standing in vehicles and short guided walks.
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