Remarkable Wildlife
Roam among iconic wildlife across the Waterberg, the Tuli Block and the northern reaches of Kruger National Park, where exceptional sightings await.
A 10 night journey through South Africa and Botswana takes you into some of the region’s most rewarding wilderness areas, from the dramatic mountains of Marakele and the vast Waterberg to Botswana’s Tuli Block and the remote northern reaches of Kruger National Park.
Expect encounters with elephant, lion, leopard and buffalo, as well as rhino, giraffe and a wealth of plains game. Birdlife is prolific, with raptors soaring overhead and colourful species along riverbanks. Throughout, you will stay in excellent lodges and camps, combining comfort, thoughtful service and privileged access to exceptional wildlife viewing.
Key Highlights of this Itinerary
Outstanding Lodges and Camps
Handpicked by our experts, you will stay in the best locations that allow you to experience the very best of the environment.
Excellent guiding
Discover more from the landscapes with fantastic local guides, bringing you closer to the heart of the wilderness.
Varied Safari
This journey includes a variety of safari, including water safari, guided bush walks and three different areas to explore.
Why Steppes?
Rated Excellent
on Trustpilot
One of the World's
Top Travel Specialists
Transparent and
Accountable
-
Day 1
Arrive into Johannesburg
-
Day 2-5
Marakele National Park
-
Day 5
Pont Drift Border
-
Day 6-7
Tuli Block
-
Day 8
Pont Drift Border
-
Day 9-10
Kruger National Park
-
Day 11
Depart from Johannesburg
Day 1
Arrive into Johannesburg
Arrive into Johannesburg, South Africa, where you will say the night before heading to Marakele National Park.
Day 2-5
Marakele National Park
Spend these next few days on safari in the Waterberg.
Day 5
Pont Drift Border
Private transfer to Pont Drift Border which connects South Africa and Botswana, a small and relatively remote crossing. From here you will head to your next camp.
Day 6-7
Tuli Block
Spend the next couple of days on safari in Tuli Block, a wild and exciting corner of Botswana.
Day 8
Pont Drift Border
Private transfer back over to Pont Drift Border Post and back into South Africa for your final days in the wild.
Day 9-10
Kruger National Park
Enjoy these next safari days exploring the iconic Kruger National Park, where the Big Five roam wild.
Day 11
Depart from Johannesburg
Take a secluded domestic flight back to Johannesburg where you can catch your international flight home.
More Details
The Waterberg
The Waterberg is a vast and striking region of northern South Africa, defined by red sandstone cliffs, rolling savannah and wide open skies. Designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, it is home to an impressive variety of wildlife, including elephant, rhino, buffalo and rare antelope species. Birdlife is equally abundant. With fewer visitors than many of the country’s better known reserves, the Waterberg offers a sense of space and tranquillity.
Tuli Block
Botswana’s Tuli Block is a striking wilderness of ancient baobabs, sandstone ridges and the winding Limpopo River. Staying at Mashatu Camp places you in the heart of this diverse landscape, renowned for its thriving elephant population and frequent sightings of lion, leopard and cheetah. Game drives and walking safaris reveal giraffe, zebra and eland, while birdlife is prolific along the riverine forests. The camp itself offers understated comfort and attentive guiding, creating an immersive and rewarding safari experience.
Kruger National Park
Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s most celebrated wildlife reserves, spanning nearly two million hectares of diverse landscapes, from open savannah to riverine forest. It is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and strong populations of the Big Five. The northern reaches, in particular, offer a quieter and more remote experience. Whether staying in a private concession or a well positioned lodge, Kruger promises rewarding sightings and a deep sense of untamed wilderness.
How does this holiday make a positive impact?
- Relevant SDGs
-
-
-
Marataba Safari Lodge supports biodiversity protection and sustainable land management within its private concession in Marakele National Park, conserving wildlife and natural habitats through carefully managed, low-impact safari activities.
Mashatu Tented Camp helps sustain private conservation efforts and generates income and jobs for local communities.
Pafuri Tented Camp emphasises eco-friendly design and operations (including solar power and low-impact infrastructure) and reinvests in community trails, guides and local suppliers.
Learn more about the UN's 17 sustainability goals
We're waiting to help you
It all starts here
Let’s put that once-in-a-lifetime trip in your hands. Get in touch with the team and we will work with you at every step to make sure that it’s extraordinary.
01285 880 980Get in touch with our travel experts to start
creating your tailor-made holiday.
A note on price
Prices will vary depending on the time of year you are travelling. Prices do not include international flights. Please ask one of our Travel Experts for an accurate quote. Flights purchased through Steppes Travel departing from the UK are ATOL protected.
This Itinerary
Price
From £5,695 Per person
When to travel
South Africa in January
A great time to visit around Cape Town and the Garden Route, as it is hot and dry. Further north in the Kruger, it is also hot, but there is a much greater chance of rainstorms.
South Africa in February
Peak season in the Cape continues, and it is often the hottest time. It is worth booking well in advance to get your preferred accommodation.
South Africa in March
It is an excellent time to visit all parts of the country, as the weather is still warm and the rain eases in the north. In the Kruger, it is lush and green after the rainy season.
South Africa in April
Visitor numbers drop, and lower temperatures make for ideal hiking conditions in the Drakensberg mountains. It is warm and dry across the country, making it a great time to explore multiple regions.
South Africa in May
A quieter time of year and a good time to visit, especially if you are not looking for balmy heat. The north and especially the Kruger enters its dry season, with cooler temperatures.
South Africa in June
Midwinter brings the rainiest time in the Cape, but it is still pleasantly mild in the day with the sun shining. The dry season in the north makes for excellent wildlife viewing as animals congregate around watering holes.
South Africa in July
Clear skies and crisp sunshine dominate in the north, as it is the driest month. It is low season so parks are generally quiet and it is easier to spot wildlife around the sparse waterholes.
South Africa in August
A fantastic time to see KwaZulu Natal as is one of the warmest places in the country at this time. In the Western Cape, it is starting to dry out in time for whale watching season.
South Africa in September
The West Coast springs into life as the flowers bloom and temperatures rise across the country. A chance to spot newborns and it is prime time for whale watching in the Cape.
South Africa in October
A great time to see both the north and south, as it is relatively dry everywhere. Flowers carpet the countryside as temperatures continue to rise.
South Africa in November
The start of the rainy season in the Kruger and the north, as temperatures heat up. Impressive thunderstorms become more regular in the afternoon. The last chance to see whales in the Cape, and a good time to see inland areas before they toast in the summer heat.
South Africa in December
Summer approaches and with it visitor numbers rise, especially in the south. If you want to travel around Christmas and New Year, you should book well in advance to secure the best spots.
Holiday Ideas
Need inspiration? Here's a great place to start.
We know a thing or two about bespoke holidays – we’ve been creating them since 1989. Take a trip through the Botswana Holidays that we love today.
Why Choose Steppes?
Our knowledge, curiosity and expertise set us apart, driving us to create remarkable holidays and Beautiful Adventures tailored perfectly to you, carefully curated to help protect and conserve our planet.
Are you ready to Discover Extraordinary?