South Africa








Trip summary statistics
12days
South Africa to Zimbabwe: Victoria Falls & Safari
Cape Town, Hoedspruit, Timbavati Game Reserve, Nelspruit (KMIA), Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, Johannesburg
Take in Cape Town’s coast and iconic sights on a curated discovery with memorable views.
Track the Big Five on game drives and dine under the stars in Kruger’s wilderness.
Feel the thunder of Victoria Falls on the Zambezi, your gateway to Zimbabwe’s safari wilds.
Ride the open-air Elephant Express and safari through Hwange’s hidden, wildlife-rich lands.
Your Destination Expert ensures seamless travel and handpicked accommodations throughout.
* Please note: USD per person, double occupancy. Custom designed personal tour. Prices subject to change.
A travel experience like no other
This sample itinerary was created by experts and is meant to inspire your next trip. It is ready to be customized to suit your interests, tastes and budget so you can connect with local cultures and experience authentic travel on your own terms and departing whenever you choose.
Cape TownThe Adventure Begins
- VIP Meet & Greet
- Welcome to Southern Africa
- Private Airport Transfer
Cape TownExplore with an Expert
- Half Day City & Table Mountain - Private Tour
- Victoria & Alfred Waterfront At Leisure
- Restaurant Recommendations
Cape TownVenture into the Outdoors
- Cape Point and Peninsula (with Lunch) - Private Tour
Cape Town to Hoedspruit to Timbavati Game ReserveOnward and Upward
- Private Airport Transfer
- Cape Town - Hoedspruit
- Hoedspruit to Timbavati Game Reserve (2 hrs)
- Game Viewing in Timbavati
Timbavati Game ReserveSafari Sightings
- Morning Game Drive
- Afternoon Game Drive
Timbavati Game ReserveThe Mane Attraction
- Morning Game Drive
- Afternoon Game Drive
Timbavati Game Reserve to Nelspruit (KMIA) to Victoria FallsThe Journey Continues…
- Timbavati Game Reserve to Nelspruit (3 hrs)
- Nelspruit (KMIA) - Victoria Falls [1 hr 50 mins] - Economy
- Airport Meet & Greet
- Private Airport Transfer
- Dinner Cruise - Shared
Victoria FallsChasing Waterfalls
- The Smoke That Thunders: Exploring Victoria Falls (with Lunch, 3-4 hrs) - Private
- Optional Activities
Victoria Falls to Hwange National ParkCall of the Wild
- Private Airport Transfer
- Air: Victoria Falls to Hwange National Park (45 min)
- Game Drive
- Rhino Conservation & Community Levy
Hwange National ParkSafari Sightings
- Hwange National Park
- Elephant Express Safari Train Sundowners
Hwange National ParkLose Yourself in Nature
- Rhino Sanctuary
- Look-Up Hide
- Night Game Drive
Hwange National Park to Victoria Falls to JohannesburgBon Voyage
- Air: Hwange National Park to Victoria Falls (45 min)
- Victoria Falls - Johannesburg [1 hr 40 mins] - Economy
CAPE TOWN

The Adventure Begins
Upon arrival to Cape Town, you will be welcomed at the door of your aircraft by a local representative holding a sign with your name on it. Alongside your assistant, you will be directed through immigration, baggage collection and customs.
Meet your private driver for an airport transfer.
Where you’ll be staying
Luxury Room
CAPE TOWN





Explore with an Expert
Beat the crowds and start the day early with your private guide by visiting Cape Town’s most iconic landmark, Table Mountain. One of the most spectacularly bio-diverse places on Earth, an estimated 1,500 unique species of plant-life are found on Table Mountain alone, many of which are endemic and found nowhere else on the planet. Ascend by cable car as the mist from the clouds open up to the main plateau while striking views of Cape Town come into crystal-clear focus. Now with a better understanding of the city’s layout, walk past Cape Town’s storied past as your guide recounts the colorful histories of the Houses of Parliament, the Castle of Good Hope (South Africa’s oldest building) and the well-tended Company Gardens. Bargain your way through the lively Greenmarket Square in search of souvenir while meeting local artisans along the way. As you enter another one of Cape Town’s famed stop at Bo-Kaap, learn how the Cape Malay community, with its cobbled streets and brightly colored houses became one of city’ most vibrant neighborhoods. There’s no better way of understanding local history than through your Capetonian guide. From here you have the choice of being dropped off at the V&A Waterfront to experience this landmark at your own pace, with its many shops, restaurants and pubs - or at your hotel to end the tour. Should you choose to visit the waterfront, please speak to your Destination Expert for a range of recommendations for lunch.
The V&A Waterfront is surely one of the top attractions in Cape Town no matter your age, interests or group dynamic. To name a few highlights, the Two Oceans Aquarium is home to an incredible array of exotic, seemingly other-worldly creatures from the Indian and Atlantic Oceans. Behind the aquarium, a small colony of Cape fur seals are almost always found on the docks, ready and waiting to pose for your camera. Chavonnes Battery, Cape Town’s first fortification, is now a museum with artifacts from centuries past. At the heart of the waterfront lies the Clock Tower of Cape Town. For your shopping needs, a visit to the Victoria Wharf Shopping Center is the perfect stopover for designer items and authentic Cape souvenirs.
From street-side tapas to award winning cuisine, let our Destination Experts help you find the right dining option for your appetite. Some of our favorite spots include; Chef’s Warehouse, Bistro Sixteen82, The Foodbarn, Potluck Club, Plant, Shortmarket Club, Harbour House and Black Sheep Restaurant. To arrange reservations at any of these restaurants, speak to your Destination Expert. Please note: Reservations are subject to availability.
Where you’ll be staying
Luxury Room
CAPE TOWN



Venture into the Outdoors
After meeting your expert local guide in Cape Town, begin the day with a visit to one of the more popular leisure hubs for locals – the glorious beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay, where impressive white sand beaches hug the shoreline with the Twelve Apostles as a stunning backdrop. Learn about the fascinating history of this breathtaking land from your Capetonian guide as you begin the spectacular sea-side drive to the quaint village of Hout Bay. After a stop in the village, you will track along the extraordinary Chapman’s Peak Drive, known as one of the most picturesque roadways world-wide. With the flexibility to spend as little or as long as you would like in this region crammed with incredible panoramic lookouts, the benefits of having a private vehicle and guide truly come into play. Further along you will reach the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve where, at Cape Point, you will board a funicular or walk up the stairway that leads to the Cape Point Lighthouse; it is here that you will observe dramatic coastal scenery and fantastic views of False Bay. Departing from Cape Point, head northward to Simon’s Town to enjoy lunch (included). Although the city is host to a number of tasty dining options, consider indulging in fresh-caught fish & chips, the town’s specialty. After a refreshing lunch and a bit of time to learn about Simon’s Town, set off with your camera ready to visit Boulders Beach, a nearby nature preserve that is home to a colony of African penguins. Wrapping up your day’s adventure, tour the idyllic Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, a sprawling park brimming with rare and exotic plant-life that is surely one the finest examples of botany the world over, before being returned to your hotel.
Where you’ll be staying
Luxury Room
CAPE TOWN TO HOEDSPRUIT TO TIMBAVATI GAME RESERVE


Onward and Upward
Meet your private driver for an airport transfer.
Board a flight in Cape Town with service to Hoedspruit. Approximate flight duration is two hours and 20 minutes.
Start your safari with a private transfer from Hoedspruit to your lodge in the Timbavati Game Reserve. Approximate travel time is two hours.
Embark on this safari experience and get close to the famed and untouched wildlife of South Africa. All of Africa’s "Big Five" are abundant in the area, as are countless numbers of other naturally-occurring African Plains Game. Supporting and rivaling the "Big Five" are several other species of wildlife, including cheetah and wild dogs. The predatorial species feed on the naturally occurring herbivores from the antelope and gazelle family. There are a variety of nocturnal animals which make sunset drives entirely different and include hyena, honey badger, civet, the bush-baby, and owls just to name a few. The avian population is unrivaled for the avid birdwatcher, with well over 350 different species spotted year-round.
Where you’ll be staying
Chalet
TIMBAVATI GAME RESERVE



Safari Sightings
Before sunrise, you will meet up with other guests at the lodge to begin your early morning game drive. Since Timbavati is a private game reserve, vehicles are allowed to travel off-road to track animals and get you up close and personal. You will be out in the reserve for a few hours before returning to the lodge for breakfast.
After settling into your lodge and preparing for an afternoon adventure, meet with other guest of the lodge and depart alongside your tracker and guide to explore the Timbavati bush. On this game drive, expect to encounter a wide range of wildlife. Since 1993, Timbavati has shared an unfenced border with Kruger National Park which allows an incredibly diverse range of fauna to roam undisturbed. The Big 5 can all be spotted from Timbavati, along with hundreds of other creatures both small and large – what will you discover today? Camera in hand, you will explore the Timbavati wilds until the sun sets, returning to your lodge in time to freshen up for a memorable, freshly-prepared dinner under the night sky.
Where you’ll be staying
Chalet
TIMBAVATI GAME RESERVE

The Mane Attraction
Just before sunrise, alongside guests of the lodge, tracker and guide, depart for an exhilarating early morning game drive. The Timbavati Game Reserve brims with a fantastic range species of fowl and mammal, including the ever sought-after Big 5: Lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino. The reserve also boasts more than 40 other species of mammals, and bird-lovers will struggle to replicate this calibre of birding anywhere else in the world; in Timbavati there are approximately 360 unique species of birds. After a few hours, you will return to the lodge to indulge in a delicious breakfast.
Embark on this safari experience to get close at the famed wildlife of South Africa. All of Africa’s Big 5 are plentiful in the area, as are countless numbers of other African plains game. Supporting and rivaling the Big 5 are several other species of wildlife, including cheetah and wild dogs. Predatory species feed on herbivores from the antelope and gazelle families. A wide variety of nocturnal animals help ensure that sunset drives are both entirely different than morning drives and just as spectacular. Hyenas, honey badgers, civets, and owls are just a few of the animals you’re more likely to spot in the cooler evening hours. Keep your eyes peeled for the majestic white lion; though a rarity, Timbavati is one of the few places on earth where these animals roam wild.
Where you’ll be staying
Chalet
TIMBAVATI GAME RESERVE TO NELSPRUIT (KMIA) TO VICTORIA FALLS


The Journey Continues…
Transfer from your lodge in the Timbavati Game Reserve to Nelspruit's Kruger Mpumalanga Airport (KMIA) with a private driver and vehicle. Transfer time will vary based on your departing lodge. Approximate travel time is three hours.
Board a flight with service from Nelspruit to Victoria Falls. The approximate flight duration is one hour and 50 minutes.
An airport representative will meet you upon disembarking the aircraft and accompany you through customs and luggage claim before connecting you with your guide.
Transfer between the Victoria Falls Airport and your lodge with a private driver and vehicle.
Flowing past Zambezi National Park in Zimbabwe and Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park in Zambia, the Zambezi River forms a spectacular natural border between the two countries. This evening, board a floating restaurant for an unforgettable dinner cruise on the Zambezi. Head to the upper deck and enjoy a glass of sparkling wine. With a beverage in hand, float gently down the river and expose your senses to your serene surroundings. Look out for a number of animals that inhabit the banks of the Zambezi; hippos, crocodiles, elephants and countless birds can all be spotted from the comfort of the vessel before the sun slips behind the horizon. Once the sun sets, dinner is served on the lower deck. After the cruise returns to shore you will be transferred back to your accommodation.
Where you’ll be staying
Studio Room
VICTORIA FALLS



Chasing Waterfalls
The Victoria Falls – now in its remarkable 150 millionth year - reaches its zenith in about May each year. However, it’s a truly awe-inspiring experience year-round – the sight, the sound, the smell; the humbling feeling that here indeed is nature’s supreme masterpiece. No photograph can begin to depict the reality, and nothing prepares you for your first sight. Today, experience the magnificence of this natural wonder on a private guided tour. Your guide will lead you through the lush rainforest cloaking the edge of the Falls, all the while providing you with fascinating facts about the surrounding flora and fauna and detailing the history of this corner of Southern Africa. Following your exploration of the Falls, transfer to the nearby Lookout Cafe for a delicious lunch in the most spectacular setting atop a deep gorge above the Zambezi - a perfect way to wrap up your morning adventure!
Victoria Falls hosts an array of exciting activities that you can book from your hotel, such as helicopter rides, fishing, whitewater rafting, Chobe game park day trips, jet boat tours, cultural tours, and more. Additional charges will apply.
Where you’ll be staying
Studio Room
VICTORIA FALLS TO HWANGE NATIONAL PARK



Call of the Wild
Transfer between the Victoria Falls Airport and your lodge with a private driver and vehicle.
Board a flight with service from Victoria Falls to Hwange National Park. The duration of your journey will depend on the number of stops along the way.
Please note that strict luggage restrictions apply for this flight. Passengers are allowed 20kg (44lb) of soft luggage, inclusive of carry-on. Luggage dimensions must not exceed 30cm (11.8 in) wide, 35 cm (13.8 in) high, and 70 cm (27.5 in) long.
Experience the untamed wilderness of Hwange National Park with Imvelo Safari Lodges, where expert guides lead you on unforgettable game drives in traditional open safari vehicles. Begin your morning adventure with a refreshing tea or coffee stop, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the African bush. In the afternoon, enjoy cool drinks and savory snacks, enhancing your wildlife experience as the sun casts golden hues over the landscape. With only six seats in the back of each custom-designed safari vehicle, you’ll enjoy a comfortable window seat, ensuring exceptional views of Hwange’s abundant wildlife. In this remote corner of the park, game drives offer an exclusive, crowd-free experience, where the only other spectators are Hwange’s diverse wildlife—from towering elephants to elusive predators and graceful antelope. Explore the hidden wonders of Hwange, where every drive is a spectacular journey into one of Africa’s most pristine ecosystems.
Witness the reintroduction of the majestic white rhino to Hwange National Park on a guided adventure. Today’s activity begins with a visit to the Rhino Sanctuary headquarters, where you'll gain insight into the conservation efforts that make this reintroduction possible. Meet the dedicated Community Wildlife Protection scouts who tirelessly safeguard these incredible creatures and hear their stories. Prepare for an up-close encounter as you venture on foot alongside the rhino, accompanied by the vigilant Cobra Rangers who ensure their safety around the clock. This immersive experience promises plenty of opportunities to capture stunning photos and cherish moments spent observing these magnificent animals in their new home on the picturesque Ngamo plains.
Where you’ll be staying
Forest Villa
HWANGE NATIONAL PARK



Safari Sightings
Welcome to Hwange National Park with Imvelo Safari Lodges, where luxury, seclusion, and immersive wilderness experiences create a profound connection with nature, wildlife, and local communities. At Imvelo, conservation and community are at the core of every stay, ensuring that both people and wildlife benefit from each visit. Every safari directly supports Zimbabwe’s natural and cultural heritage, making each adventure both meaningful and unforgettable. Spanning 5,600 square miles, Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe’s largest and most diverse wildlife reserve, home to over 40,000 elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and 400 bird species. Explore vast plains, woodlands, and waterholes on thrilling game drives or guided walking safaris, uncovering the park’s hidden wonders with expert trackers. As night falls, retreat to your luxury lodge, bush camp, or tented camp, and gather under the starlit African sky, listening to the distant roar of lions. With its breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife, Hwange National Park offers a once-in-a-lifetime safari adventure, immersing you in Africa’s untamed wilderness.
Be transported back in time to an era when safari by rail was part of the adventure. Unique to Hwange, board an old fashioned locomotive and ride through the National Park, stopping to enjoy game viewing along the way as you spot big game, elephants, eland, African buffalo, giraffe and more. The Elephant Express is a shared rail car that seats 22 passengers and the finishes are comfortable and elegant. They include individual coach seating, teak tables, and plenty of space to enjoy the wilderness around you.
*Please note that the Elephant Express runs according to daily scheduling specified by the National Railways of Zimbabwe and as such may be subject to delays and cancellations, which are beyond our control.
Where you’ll be staying
Forest Villa
HWANGE NATIONAL PARK




Lose Yourself in Nature
Seize the rare opportunity to witness the Big 5 at the Rhino Sanctuary, a landmark conservation success for Hwange. This exclusive experience takes you behind the scenes of rhino conservation, offering incredible encounters with these magnificent animals in their new home on the Ngamo Plains. Begin your journey with a visit to the sanctuary headquarters, where you’ll meet the dedicated Community Wildlife Protection Unit scouts, who work tirelessly to safeguard the rhinos. Then, embark on a once-in-a-lifetime guided walk, joining the elite Cobra Rangers, who provide 24/7 protection for these endangered giants. Enjoy exceptional photography opportunities and quality time observing white rhinos in their natural habitat, gaining a deep appreciation for their resilience and the conservation efforts that protect them. This is more than just a safari—it's a powerful and inspiring experience, connecting you to the heart of Africa’s wildlife conservation mission.
Step into a hidden world of wildlife encounters at Imvelo Safari Lodges’ Look-Up Hide, a unique vantage point that brings you eye-to-eye with Hwange’s iconic giants. This sunken steel hide, ingeniously buried in the soft sands of Hwange, offers a cool, secure retreat for an unparalleled, ground-level perspective of animals coming to drink. Watch in awe as elephants tower above you, their massive feet just meters away, while herds gather at the waterhole, unaware of your presence. Perfect for wildlife photography, this thrilling, up-close experience captures the raw essence of the African wilderness—where every sip, splash, and interaction unfolds just inches from your lens. For an intimate and unforgettable safari moment, the Look-Up Hide at Imvelo Safari Lodges is an absolute must.
Venture into the mystical world of Hwange after dark with an exhilarating night drive at Imvelo Safari Lodges. As night falls, embark on a captivating safari with expert trackers, using red-filtered spotlights to reveal Hwange’s elusive nocturnal creatures with minimal disturbance. Watch as the wilderness comes alive with stealthy predators, elusive foragers, and agile climbers. Unusual highlights include antbears foraging for termites, prickly porcupines rustling through the undergrowth, springhares leaping like tiny kangaroos, and the wide-eyed lesser bushbaby bounding between branches. If you’re lucky, you may even spot the graceful pennant-winged nightjar in flight—a truly mesmerizing sight. A night drive with Imvelo Safari Lodges is a thrilling, immersive experience, revealing a side of Hwange few ever get to see—where mystery, adventure, and nature’s raw beauty converge under the African night sky.
Where you’ll be staying
Forest Villa
HWANGE NATIONAL PARK TO VICTORIA FALLS TO JOHANNESBURG









Bon Voyage
Board a flight with service from Hwange National Park to Victoria Falls. The duration of your journey will depend on the number of stops along the way.
Please note that strict luggage restrictions apply for this flight. Passengers are allowed 20kg (44lb) of soft luggage, inclusive of carry-on. Luggage dimensions must not exceed 30cm (11.8 in) wide, 35 cm (13.8 in) high, and 70 cm (27.5 in) long.
Board a flight from Victoria Falls to Johannesburg. Approximate flight duration is 1 hour and 40 minutes.
CAPE TOWN




The Three Boutique Hotel
Old and new meet in perfect harmony at The Three Boutique Hotel, with the conversion of this beautiful National Monument building into a stylish 15-bedroom boutique hotel in the heart of Cape Town. Each room features complimentary Wi-Fi access, air conditioning, a flatscreen television and en-suite bathroom. A columned terrace tiled in black and white wraps around the house leading to the outdoor swimming pool and lounge where guests are welcomed to relax. The rooftop deck is ideal for sunbathing and sunset drinks while offering guests unparalleled views of Cape Town’s three iconic mountains; Table Mountain, Lions Head and Devil’s Peak, after which The Three is named.
TIMBAVATI GAME RESERVE









Kambaku Safari Lodge
Kambaku Safari Lodge is an intimate lodge located in the Timbavati Private Reserve, which shares an open border with Kruger National Park. Taking its name from one of the “Magnificent Seven” tuskers who roamed the area, Kambaku lies in a natural wilderness overlooking a waterhole that attracts a wide range of wildlife. The main lodge offers expansive common areas as well as private spaces, a spacious bar and lounge, and a small library. Outdoors, a swimming pool and deck offers the perfect place to relax. With an array of family-focused activities, the lodge is an excellent choice for groups with younger children.
VICTORIA FALLS







Shongwe Lookout
Shongwe Lookout is an award-winning lodge located just a few minutes away from the iconic Victoria Falls. The property features 23 elegantly furnished rooms nestled amidst lush tropical gardens. A standout feature is the unique two-level lookout tower, offering breathtaking views of the Zambezi River and the mist rising from the falls. Guests can unwind in the inviting infinity pool or indulge in gourmet dining at the on-site restaurant, where Chef Jason crafts dishes that blend local ingredients with traditional European techniques. For those seeking relaxation, the Mvula Spa provides high-end treatments with a local twist, including Baobab milk baths and African green clay wraps. With its blend of luxury, comfort, and proximity to one of the world's natural wonders, Shongwe Lookout offers a truly memorable experience.
HWANGE NATIONAL PARK



Camelthorn Lodge
Camelthorn Lodge, the latest addition to the Imvelo Safari Lodges family, is the most luxurious and exclusive lodge to date. They have chosen to build this flagship camp in one of Hwange’s last remaining corners of well-protected and un-spoilt woodlands. Camelthorn Lodge is deep in amongst the Camelthorn and ebony trees. The stunning new lodge offers huge glass fronts, overlooking small watering holes and birdfeeders that will attract some of the smaller and less destructive woodland creatures. The main lodge is a magnificent stone structure with thatch roof built in an open U around the lodge’s splendid namesake "The Camelthorn Tree". The Western wing is a closed in dining room protected from the elements with 3 fireplaces. The central portion of the main lodge is an open fronted reception area and lounge. The Eastern wing has open fronted bar and lounge area on a raised teak deck. Within the U lies an open patio area under The Camelthorn, ideal for enjoying leisurely brunches and candlelit dinners under the stars on warm evenings.
Made to Order
- Choose from a range of places to stay, from impeccable five-star hotels to equally outstanding boutique ones.
- Tailor your trip to include a wide variety of activities, from the must-see's to the lesser-known, local experiences, and even the exclusive ones you may not know about.
- With no fixed dates or set schedules, you can explore on your terms.
- Whether you're celebrating one of life's big moments or looking to fulfill a personal journey, we always work with you to ensure we're creating a trip-of-a-lifetime.
What's included
- A fully customized itinerary based on your interests and schedule
- 24/7 in-destination support from our local office
- Regional flights between stops in your itinerary (unless otherwise indicated)
- All accommodation stays, tours and transfers for scheduled activities are covered, unless otherwise listed in the itinerary
- A private driver for tours and transfers (in some countries our local private guides also act as your driver - your Destination Expert will discuss with you if applicable)
- Local private guides or shared tours that take you through your itinerary highlights and experiences, your final itinerary will confirm the type of tour
- A greeting at the airport or at your accommodation from one of our representatives – your expert will confirm your meet and greet location with you
- Breakfast each morning at your hotel, plus any meals indicated in the itinerary
- One suitcase and one carry-on per person for trip transfers
What's not included
- Your international airfare – please do let your expert know if you'd like to receive pricing from our Air Team
- Travel insurance, which we offer and can be purchased after you've booked your tour
- Visas (unless noted)
- Tips for services and experiences
- Lunches, dinners and drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), unless specified in the itinerary
- Excess baggage charges, and where applicable, baggage not included in your fare
- Personal charges such as laundry, phone calls, SIM cards or room service
- Early check-in or late check-out from hotels (unless otherwise specified)
- Additional sightseeing, activities and experiences outside of your itinerary
- Optional enhancements like room or flight upgrades, or local camera or video fees
- Passport fees, immunization costs, and local departure taxes (when applicable)
Protect your travel
- We recommend travel protection. Between missed connections, lost or delayed luggage, or medical emergencies, you want some peace of mind that your travel investment is well protected.
- No matter who you buy from, please consider purchasing a travel protection plan before you travel. Still unsure? Consider these frequently asked questions.









