Overview

Running the length of the Kwazulu-Natal province, the Ukuhlamba Drakensberg Park is a UNESCO recognised world heritage site. Whether you go by the Zulu name uKhahlamba, meaning ‘barrier of spears’, or the Afrikaans name Drakensberge, meaning ‘dragon mountains’, these towering mountains will be our backdrop as we embark on our safari from Durban to Port Elizabeth. We travel through the mountainous pony trekking country of Lesotho and into the bush of Addo Elephant National Park for the most spectacular elephant viewing experience. Setting off from the port city of Durban, we travel to the uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park (passing via the Howick Falls and the capture site of South Africa’s most iconic resident, the late Nelson Mandela) where we will spend two nights, enjoying hikes on the many trails available. Our route winds its way through the magnificent cliffs off the Golden Gate National Park as we make our way to Lesotho and climb to our overnight accommodation high in the mountain peaks. The clean mountain air of Lesotho accompanies us as we explore on foot and visit a village to gain some insight into the local community. Returning to South Africa, we aim for the Great Karoo – the heartland of rural South Africa and a start contrast to the mountains we left behind. The unique valley of desolation offers the most amazing panoramic view over the town of Graaff Reinet and we enjoy this sight during an afternoon sundown session. Setting course for the coast once again, we pass through the open plains of the Karoo and the wildlife charms of the Addo National Park. Upon arrival in the greater Addo region, we set up camp and head into the Addo Elephant National Park to enjoy an afternoon safari drive in our Nomad truck, in search of the famous elephants and other wildlife that call Addo home. Our South African safari package will draw to a close in the city of Port Elizabeth.

Day 1 – UKhahlamba Drakensberg Park

Running the length of the Kwazulu-Natal province, the Ukuhlamba Drakensberg Park is a UNESCO recognised world heritage site. Whether you go by the Zulu name uKhahlamba, meaning ‘barrier of spears’, or the Afrikaans name Drakensberge, meaning ‘dragon mountains’, these towering mountains will be our backdrop for the next two nights. On our way we make a short stop in Durban to stretch our legs before continuing to view the scenic Howick Falls and a visit to the nearby site that marked the capture of South Africa’s most famous man, Nelson Mandela.

Day 2 – UKhahlamba Drakensberg Park

We set out this morning for a lengthy hike. While we encourage everyone to make the most of the day in mountains, we may offer separate options depending on the activity level of the group. With a number of trails available we can ensure that we cater to every need, the most important aim is to ensure everyone enjoys this mountain paradise at their own pace.

Day 3 – Lesotho – Malealea

Our journey today begins with a mountain pass and an opportunity to visit a Vulture restaurant where we hope to view these fascinating birds. Our route winds its way through the magnificent cliffs off the Golden Gate National Park before we enter Lesotho in the afternoon, we pass the capital city of Maseru as continue the climb to our base high amongst the mountain peaks.

Day 4 – Lesotho – Malealea

The clean air of the mountains accompanies us this morning as we explore the mountains on foot, our hike concludes with a village visit and the opportunity to gain insight into the community that calls these mountains home. The Basotho are famous for their traditional hats, blankets and their sturdy ponies. Basotho ponies are renowned for their surefootedness in the mountains and you have the opportunity of an optional pony trek this afternoon to experience this first-hand.  This activity is not for the inexperienced or faint-hearted.

Day 5 – South Africa – Graaff Reinet

Returning to South Africa, we descend the mountains and take aim across the Great Karoo. The semi-arid Karoo represents the heartland of rural South Africa and presents a stark contrast to the mountains we leave behind. Our overnight stop is set in the historic town of Graaff-Reinet, the fourth oldest town in the country. We cross the mighty Orange (Gariep) River today as we journey through the vast countryside of the Karoo. This evening you will have the opportunity to join a sundowner excursion to the Valley of Desolation. This unique valley offers a panoramic view over the town and the wide open plains stretching out below. Kindly note that during the winter months, this activity will become a Sunrise excursion to the Valley of Desolation the following morning.

Day 6 – Greater Addo Elephant National Park area

Setting course for the coast once again, we pass through the open plains of the Karoo and the wildlife charms of the Addo National Park. Upon arrival in the greater Addo region, we set up camp and head to the National Park to enjoy an afternoon game drive in our Nomad truck, in search of the famous elephants that call Addo home.

Day 7 – Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)

This morning we will make the short drive to the windy city of Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), where your tour comes to an end upon arrival.

  •   Crew3 Crew
  •   Max Passengers 2012 Passengers Max
  •   Vehicle 2012 Seater Vehicle
  •   Duration7 Days and 6 Nights
  •   From / ToDurban to Port Elizabeth
  •   Meals6 Breakfast  6 Lunch 6 Dinner
  •   Countries South Africa, Lesotho

Dates

Pre & Post Tour

Pre & Post Tour Accommodation

Nomad can book accommodation before and after your tour.

Pre Tour Accommodation - Durban

From R1,480
  Airport Transfer Available Garden Court South Beach Hotel

Situated in the warm subtropical city of Durban, on the lush coastline of KwaZulu-Natal, Garden Court South Beach is the ideal home away from home for our travellers. The hotel lies within easy reach of Durban’s popular South Beach, and provides an ideal springboard from which to explore Durban and… … Read More

Post Tour Accommodation - Port Elizabeth

From R1,700
  Airport Transfer Available Kings Beach Hotel Tsogo Sun

Kings Beach Garden Court Hotel in Port Elizabeth is centrally located and enjoys sweeping views of Algoa Bay. The hotel is within walking distance to the beach, shops, Boardwalk, restaurants and other attractions. Rooms are clean and comfortable with modern bathrooms, air-conditioning, tea and coffee facilities and complimentary wifi. From… … Read More

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