South Africa: Kruger Wildlife Tracking & Vineyards

Africa's most populous city, Johannesburg is an exciting launch pad for adventures of all kinds. A thriving art and food scene tell the story of a city embracing its unique identity while honouring its complex history. Welcome to Johannesburg, and to South Africa, and we invite you to learn the past and the present South Africa.

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. Your local guides accompany you on a walking safari through the national park. Later in the day, walk to Granite Rock for an outdoor picnic lunch.

Known as the food and wine capital of the world, Franschhoek 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 Sauvage restaurant. Located within the Le Franschhoek Hotel and Spa and led by head chef Kyle Norris, Sauvage is known for their colourful plates inspired by what grows locally. Your hardest choice today is whether its wine or coffee after dinner.

Franschhoek was named Time magazine's top 50 places to visit in 2022, and it's easy to see why. With an e-bike, you will be able to pedal as much-or as little-as you wish while exploring the vineyards and small towns between Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. Sample wine and gourmet snacks but don't worry about filling up, because lunch is served at Babylonstoren Gardens. These gardens must be seen to be believed- 8 acres of cultivated fruit and vegetable gardens and expertly manicured pathways throughout.

The days full of culinary delights must come to an end, but the adventure continues in Cape Town. Paddling through Table Bay with views of Signal Hill and Table Mountain, it's easy to feel a million miles from the rush of a city. Heaviside's dolphins are frequent visitors during your paddle.

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.

OMG indeed. There is plenty to choose from to make your day in the Mother City a truly unique experience. Make your last day in South Africa a perfect fit for you. Choose between a Black Route walking tour and cooking experience, and a half day Urban Cycle tour. Both options cover a ton of ground and get you out and about before your trip home.

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