South Africa: Untamed Beauty and African Wilderness

Location: Africa
Duration: 8 Days
Price: From $12,495
Activity Level: Moderate

South Africa: Untamed Beauty and African Wilderness

Location: Africa
Duration: 8 Days
Price: From $12,495
Activity Level: Moderate

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Africa, where expertly guided day and night safaris offer thrilling encounters with the Big Five and other extraordinary wildlife. Traverse the wilderness on foot, uncovering hidden flora and fauna, and stay at luxurious lodges seamlessly integrated with Kruger National Park for unmatched game viewing. Immerse yourself in local culture by visiting nearby villages and learning about collaborative projects with the Africa Foundation.

Main Attractions

Thrilling Safaris

Embark on exhilarating day and night safaris led by expert guides. Encounter the Big Five and other incredible wildlife up close, creating unforgettable memories and breathtaking photo opportunities.

Wilderness Walks

Discover the hidden gems of the African wilderness on guided walks. These immersive experiences reveal the secrets of the bush, from unique flora to elusive fauna, offering a deep connection with nature an intimate peak into the beauty of South Africa.

Luxurious Lodges

Relax in exclusive lodges with open borders to Kruger National Park. Enjoy top-notch accommodations and unparalleled access to wildlife, ensuring a perfect balance of comfort and adventure. You will unwind, sleep soundly, and have plenty of time to reflect.

Map showing locations from Johannesburg to Hoedspruit, Ngala Lodge, Kirkman’s Kamp, and Skukuza in South Africa, with travel routes and modes indicated.
A cheetah stands in tall grass, looking toward the camera, with a blurred tree in the background.
A rhinoceros, zebras, and a group of giraffes in a grassy savanna landscape with scattered trees and shrubs.
A herd of elephants walks along a dirt road with tall grass on both sides. The largest elephant is at the front, facing forward.
Silhouettes of a tree, safari vehicle, giraffe, elephant, and other animals at sunset.
A person photographs a giraffe from a safari vehicle with a large camera lens, surrounded by green vegetation.
Person in a vehicle observing a group of elephants grazing in a grassy landscape with trees.
A cheetah stands in tall grass, looking toward the camera, with a blurred tree in the background.
A rhinoceros, zebras, and a group of giraffes in a grassy savanna landscape with scattered trees and shrubs.
A herd of elephants walks along a dirt road with tall grass on both sides. The largest elephant is at the front, facing forward.
Silhouettes of a tree, safari vehicle, giraffe, elephant, and other animals at sunset.
A person photographs a giraffe from a safari vehicle with a large camera lens, surrounded by green vegetation.
Person in a vehicle observing a group of elephants grazing in a grassy landscape with trees.

Itinerary

Aerial view of a cityscape with numerous buildings and a prominent tower. The sky is cloudy, and the city is illuminated, suggesting evening or night time.

Arrive in Johannesburg

Arrive at O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) at any time today. Guests will be met by airport personnel upon arrival to assist through passport control and luggage collection. Up to 4 arrival assistance services from the airport to the hotel will be provided timed for when most guests arrive. The exact times will be determined closer to departure. Additional arrival assistance at other times is available for purchase. Dinner will be on your own tonight. A welcome dinner is on Day 2.

Meals breakfast
Giraffes and zebras drinking water at a pond in a savanna landscape with trees in the background.

The Adventure Begins

After breakfast at your hotel, transfer to the airport for your flight to Hoedspruit, where a light snack will be served on the plane. Upon arrival, your representative will arrange a private transfer to Ngala Safari Lodge in the Timbavati Reserve. Enjoy a meal and afternoon tea before embarking on your first safari experience, which includes an exciting 4×4 game drive. Conclude the day with a lively welcome dinner under the stars and around the open blazing fire in the lodge’s traditional boma.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
An elephant uses its trunk to reach leaves from a bush in a wooded area.

Ngala Safari Lodge

Enjoy your first day at Ngala Safari Lodge, where each day begins and ends with thrilling safari adventures. Embark on scheduled game drives and bush walks led by expert guides, encountering the Big Five and other incredible wildlife in their natural habitat. Between game drives, relax and enjoy the lodge’s serene amenities. For a unique adventure, the optional Treehouse Experience offers an unforgettable night under the African sky. All meals, refreshments, and drinks are thoughtfully prepared and included, ensuring a delightful culinary experience to complement your safari activities.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
A woman takes a photo of a rhino lying in a muddy waterhole surrounded by lush greenery.

Game Drives and Bush Walks

Start Day 4 with an exhilarating morning game drive or guided bush walk, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of the African wilderness. As the sun sets, venture out again for an evening safari to discover the nocturnal wonders of the bush. Savor a variety of delicious meals throughout the day, from hearty breakfasts to refreshing lunches and indulgent dinners. Drinks and refreshments are also available throughout the day, ensuring you’re well cared for between activities. Unwind at the lodge during the midday break, enjoying its tranquil atmosphere and luxurious facilities.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
View from a vehicle of a herd of elephants crossing a dirt road in a safari park, surrounded by trees and grassland.

Transfer to Kirkman’s Camp

Begin your day with a safari drive or walk, followed by breakfast. Depart at 10:00 AM for a 4-hour private road transfer to Kirkman’s Kamp in the Sabi Sands Private Reserve, with snack packs provided for the ride. Upon arrival, you’ll be oriented and checked in. Later, participate in an evening game drive or bush walk.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
A leopard sits alert on rocky terrain surrounded by trees and vegetation.

Kirkman National Park

A day at Kirkman’s Kamp offers immersive experiences in the African wilderness, including thrilling day and night safaris led by expert guides. Bush walking adventures provide a closer connection to the environment, exploring flora and fauna on foot. The Sabi Sand Reserve’s unfenced boundary with Kruger National Park enhances the safari experience with exceptional game viewing. Visits to nearby Shangaan communities offer cultural engagement and insights into joint initiatives with the Africa Foundation.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
Person taking a photo of the landscape from a vehicle, with sunset in the background and trees visible on the horizon.

Celebrate An Amazing Journey

Another magnificent day of exploration awaits, with expertly guided day and night safaris to encounter the Big Five and other remarkable wildlife in their natural surroundings. Participate in guided bush walks to explore the African wilderness on foot, discovering hidden flora and fauna. Enjoy a farewell dinner with your new AdventureWomen friends, reflecting on cherished memories and celebrating an amazing journey through this remarkable country.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
A group of people form a circle with their fists touching in the center.

Departure

Enjoy one last early morning activity followed by breakfast. Your lodge Your lodge staff will arrange a transfer to Skukuza Airport for your flight back to Johannesburg (JNB). Assistance will be provided at Johannesburg for connecting international flights. Ensure that you schedule a flight with a departure time is after 7:00 PM to allow ample time for travel and airport procedures.

Meals breakfast
An antelope stands alert in a grassy field surrounded by green shrubs and trees.

Accommodations

Please note that all amenities were current when written and are subject to change at any time.

A multi-story City Lodge hotel with a red logo sign, surrounded by green trees and neatly landscaped gardens in the foreground.

City Lodge Johannesburg Airport

City Lodge Johannesburg Airport is conveniently located in Africa’s busiest airport. It offers guests access to a wide variety of retailers, restaurants and banking facilities within the airport building. The hotel is equipped with a fitness room and a pool deck.

AMENITIES: complimentary toiletries, safe, flatscreen TV, air conditioning

A cozy lodge with a thatched roof surrounded by trees is illuminated at dusk. The path leading to the entrance is lined with small lights.

Ngala Safari Lodge

Ngala Safari Lodge is an elegant retreat within Kruger National Park, offering exclusive Big Five wildlife experiences across 36,000 acres. The lodge features a pool and sundeck overlooking riverine woodlands, along with a serene massage sala and fitness room. Evening dinners are beautifully arranged in a candlelit courtyard or as a traditional African feast in the open-air boma. All meals, refreshments, and drinks are included.
Amenities: complimentary toiletries, minibar, coffee / tea maker, safe, flatscreen TV, Wi-Fi, air conditioning

Outdoor evening dining setup with lit tables on a grassy lawn. A large building with glowing windows is in the background, surrounded by trees under a colorful sunset sky.

Kirkman’s Kamp

Kirkman’s Kamp is located high on a ridge of the world-famous Sabi Sand Game Reservep. Step back in time, into the classical ambiance of this original 1920s homestead. Immersed in the bushscape is a rim-flow swimming pool with views of the Sand River. All meals, drinks, and refreshments are carefully crafted and included, providing a delicious culinary experience that perfectly complements your safari adventures.
Amenities: complimentary toiletries, hair dryer, coffee / tea maker, minibar, Wi-Fi, air conditioning

What People Are Saying

As a long-time solo traveler, I was nervous about traveling to Africa on my own. Who knew traveling with 11 complete strangers could be so much fun. The trip was fast paced and well organized. A safari is something any adventurer should have on their bucket list. Great job AdventureWomen for a wonderful trip and introducing me to meet lifelong friends.

What People Are Saying

What a fabulous trip!! What fun we had and what an amazing experience to be able to see all of those animals in person. I find myself trying to communicate the experience to others and sometimes I just can’t find the words. I think Africa is a very special place and I know I will be going back someday. People told me this might happen…

What People Are Saying

Thank you for organizing the Tanzania trip – it was fantastic, I am still smiling!

Dates & Pricing

Start Date End Date Availability Pricing Booking Link
Sep 27 Oct 4
Space Available
$12,495*
Standard Room, Single
$15,695 total, $2,500 deposit
Standard Room, Double
$12,495 total, $2,500 deposit

*Additional Pricing Information: 2026 Optional Single Accommodation: $3,200

Arrival: Arrive at O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) at any time on Day 1.
Departure: Depart from Johannesburg (JNB) Airport after 7 PM on Day 8.

What's Included

  • Accommodations as per itinerary based on double occupancy
  • All meals as listed in the itinerary
  • Ngala Safari Lodge and Kirkman’s Kamp: soft drinks, house wines, local brand spirits and beer, laundry service
  • Up to 4 airport arrival assistance services on arrival day, assistance at Johannesburg Airport for connecting international flights on departure day.
  • Domestic airfare
  • All ground transportation
  • Guided sightseeing and activities as indicated in the itinerary
  • English-speaking guide(s) throughout the trip
  • Emergency medical evacuation insurance
  • All gratuities except for the main guide and safari guides

What's Not Included

  • International airfare
  • Optional activities
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Champagne, cognacs, fine wines, premium brand spirits and cigars; alcoholic beverages when not at the lodges
  • Fees for passport, visas, immunizations, or travel insurance
  • Cost of hospitalization or evacuation
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Gratuities for the main guide
  • Grauities for the main guide and safari guides (game ranger, tracker, walking guide)
Trip Extensions

Cape Town

Extend your South African adventure with a Cape Town getaway. Explore the Stellenbosch Wine Region, known for award-winning wines, stunning landscapes, and rich history. Ascend iconic Table Mountain by cable car for panoramic views, stroll the serene Company Gardens, and visit the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood. Discover Cape Town’s vibrant culture and landmarks on a guided tour. Conclude with airport assistance for a seamless departure and the opportunity to savor local cuisine.

Aerial view of Table Mountain in Cape Town, with low clouds covering the peak and city lights illuminating the surrounding area at dusk.

FAQs

Absolutely! We happily welcome all women as long as you are physically capable of doing the activities on your chosen trip. Our guests range from 18-85+! It is important to us to talk to each guest to make sure each woman chooses the right trip for her physical ability and interest.

You can process your registration on our online booking system or over the phone. Most deposits are $800. In many cases, and unless otherwise indicated, your deposit is transferable if you notify us in writing 120 before your trip departs.

Be sure to check the ‘What’s Included’ section of the trip you are interested in. Once you get to the departure city and meet the group, we often include most meals, all accommodations, all activities (although there might be an optional activity at an additional cost), transportation while on the adventure, qualified local guide(s) and some trips also include an AdventureWomen Ambassador. Our trips do not include airfare to/from the arrival and departure cities. However, internal flights are included in some itineraries so please read the itinerary carefully.

Absolutely! In fact, we encourage it! Many of the women who travel with AdventureWomen come solo. For those that do not choose a single supplement, we pair you with a roommate. Usually, when we change accommodations on a trip, we will change roommates if we can, so you get a chance to know others in our group. A limited number of single supplements may be available for an additional charge.

That depends entirely on the trip! AdventureWomen adventure travel trips are rated according to the physical fitness level demanded by the included activities.

  • Moderate: These adventures exercise your mind more than your body and are designed for women who prefer a leisurely, less rigorous experience. For example, you could walk up to 2 miles per day through cities and villages, stand in museums for a few hours, relax on a boat, or view wildlife from a vehicle.
  • Active: Adventures that get you on your feet! You should be in good physical condition where you are comfortable walking on uneven surfaces, such as cobblestone streets, biking manicured nature trails or kayaking calm waters.
  • High Energy: These adventures are designed for women who enjoy a physical challenge and crave being on the go! You should be prepared for itineraries that include (but are not limited to): a full day of biking on a rolling terrain, hiking 5-8 miles on moderate to steep trails, being active at high altitudes, whitewater rafting, or skiing.
  • Challenging: Adventures that get your heart rate pumping, these are demanding yet deeply rewarding and designed for seasoned outdoor enthusiasts. You should be in excellent physical condition, and be able to hike up to 10 miles, in steeper, more rugged terrain.