After an expedition out searching for the Big Five, you unwind in your private plunge pool and enjoy an outdoor shower before heading to dinner in a large elegant dining room. This is classic South Africa—vast, peaceful, and teeming with wildlife. Here large animals still graze and roam the savannah freely as they have done for millennia.
This is just part of the experience when you take the 10-day Hidden South Africa tour with Natural Habitat Adventures, covering Kruger National Park, Sabi Sand Game Reserve, and Botswana’s Mashatu Game Reserve. With a maximum of six travelers, which could be just you, your family, and friends, you get the ultimate small tour experience—and everyone gets a window seat.
Photo Credit: Natural Habitat Adventures
Eric Rock
Photo Credit: Natural Habitat Adventures
The Company
Inspired by the natural world, Natural Habitat Adventures has been a leader in sustainable travel and small group tours since 1985. Furthering its dedication to the planet, the company partnered with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) in 2003 to promote its key initiatives. Over the past 16 years, Natural Habitat Adventures and its travelers have given more than $10 million to WWF’s global efforts.
With “Nat Hab” in South Africa, you’ll have an itinerary planned by nature travel experts. You’ll see more animals, connect more deeply with the landscape, and have a richer, more fulfilling experience. Instead of packs of tourists, you’ll see packs of lions and herds of elephants—all while staying in the stunning solitude of exclusive luxury safari camps and small lodges chosen for their tranquil settings in remote areas.
Photo Credit: Natural Habitat Adventures
Melissa Scott
Photo Credit: Natural Habitat Adventures
The Tour
You’ll begin this 10-day adventure In Johannesburg, where you’ll rendezvous with your expedition leader for a welcome dinner at the luxurious Fairlawns Boutique Hotel, a secret garden-like location in the suburb of Sandton. Next, you’ll travel by plane to Polokwane, a gateway to neighboring Botswana’s Mashatu Private Reserve, where you’ll stay at the uber-exclusive, eight-tent Mashatu Tent Camp for a taste of glamping at its best. Here in the “Land of Giants,” there are more than 700 elephants in residence, as well as impressive numbers of lions and cheetahs.
Before your first game drive, you might want to brush up your photo-taking skills with pro tips from Nat Hab photo guide Court Whelan. Whether you want to capture adorable lion cubs playing or graceful elephants on the move, his tips will make your photos travel mag-worthy.
Moving on to your next destination, you’ll be whisked away by chartered plane to the private, 56,800-acre Manyeleti Game Reserve deep in the bush. Taking its name from the Shangaan language for “place of the stars,” you’ll spend the next few evenings under an uninterrupted sky glittering with stars at the eight-suite Tintswalo Safari Lodge, where you can indulge in refined amenities like the Bushwillow Spa, high tea, and fine dining.
Photo Credit: Natural Habitat Adventures
Julie Sivertson/Julie Sivertson
Photo Credit: Natural Habitat Adventures
In this remote nook of South Africa, situated on the unfenced borders of Kruger National Park and the Sabi Sand and Timbavati game reserves, you’re truly in the wild. You’ll see large animals like elephants, lions, and rhinos, as well as soaring flocks of birds and other vibrant species. With expert guides and local trackers, you’ll head out for game drives in open, four-wheel-drive vehicles equipped with every comfort, from blankets for chilly mornings to snacks and refreshments.
For the last few days of your journey, you’ll road trip in style to the Sabi Sand Game Reserve and stay at the exclusive MalaMala Main Camp, located on South Africa’s oldest and most historic private game reserve. The camp features 18 luxury rooms and suites built in the traditional thatched bungalow style and outfitted with fine amenities. In addition to daytime game drives, you’ll get to experience a safari by night and view the world of nocturnal animals. At this plush camp, you can also kick back in the infinity pool or relax in the expansive lounge. It’s a welcome respite before flying back to Johannesburg and absorbing all that happened during this incredible journey.
Discover more South African tours with Natural Habitat Adventures and experience remote luxury.
