Overview
Wild South Africa
Africa
9 days
8 nights
12 people
Easy
Wildlife & Nature
Get ready for a lekker adventure in South Africa! From the marine life of Cape Town and Gansbaai to the African Bush of the Greater Kruger area, this is a once in a lifetime wildlife adventure. Expand your marine knowledge with a marine biologist expert as we dive into the Marine Big 5 along the Cape. Afterwards get your safari hat ready to capture the beauty of the grassy savannahs of the Greater Kruger area. This trip will inspire your wildlife curiosity as you encounter lions, penguins, great white sharks, elephants and more.
Special Access: Go tide-pooling around Boulder's Beach in the company of a marine biologist, getting up-close with the wildlife at one of the world's most spectacular beaches.
Travel with Purpose: Visit the Dyer Island Conservation Trust, which works to protect the marine ecosystem surrounding Dyer Island, home to endangered African Penguins, Great White Sharks, and Southern Right Whales.
Global Community: The trip is accompanied by marine biologist Melissa Cristina Márquez. She joins the group on Days 2, 3 & 4 as we focus on the Marine Big 5 in Cape Town and Gansbaai.
Highlights
- Encounter the Marine Big 5 on a cruise along the coast of Gansbaai
- Kayak your way around False Bay and meet the penguins at Boulders Beach Penguin Colony
- Learn about tide pooling with a Marine Biologist expert
- Enjoy a series of unforgettable sunrise and sunset safaris through the African bush, spotting lions, elephants and giraffes
- Learn the art of Cape Malay cuisine during a hands-on cooking class
Marine wildlife and Kruger Safari
Day 1
Welkom!
Welcome to Cape Town. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting this evening followed by dinner with your fellow intrepid travellers. If you arrive early, we recommend taking the cable car up to the top of Table Mountain to admire epic views across the city, then catching the ferry across to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years.
Welkom!
Welcome to Cape Town. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting this evening followed by dinner with your fellow intrepid travellers. If you arrive early, we recommend taking the cable car up to the top of Table Mountain to admire epic views across the city, then catching the ferry across to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years.
-
Radisson Red Waterfront or similar, Cape Town
-
Welcome Dinner
-
Radisson Red Waterfront or similar, Cape Town
-
Welcome Dinner
Day 2
Exploring Cape Town
Enjoy a fascinating introduction to colorful Cape Town this morning, as your local guide leads a walking tour through the city’s many highlights. Gaze upon the majesty of Table Mountain, soak in breathtaking views of Signal Hill, and wander beneath the trees of Company's Garden, South Africa’s oldest park. Explore the picturesque Bo Kaap neighborhood, with its camera-friendly pastel-coloured houses and learn about the Cape Malay residents’ tumultuous history. Then learn the secrets of Cape Malay cuisine during a hands-on cooking class.
Afterward, expand your horizons with an enlightening visit to the Save our Seas Foundation. The Foundation is dedicated to protecting life in our oceans, especially sharks and rays.
Exploring Cape Town
Enjoy a fascinating introduction to colorful Cape Town this morning, as your local guide leads a walking tour through the city’s many highlights. Gaze upon the majesty of Table Mountain, soak in breathtaking views of Signal Hill, and wander beneath the trees of Company's Garden, South Africa’s oldest park. Explore the picturesque Bo Kaap neighborhood, with its camera-friendly pastel-coloured houses and learn about the Cape Malay residents’ tumultuous history. Then learn the secrets of Cape Malay cuisine during a hands-on cooking class.
Afterward, expand your horizons with an enlightening visit to the Save our Seas Foundation. The Foundation is dedicated to protecting life in our oceans, especially sharks and rays.
-
Radisson Red Waterfront or similar, Cape Town
-
Breakfast, Lunch
-
Radisson Red Waterfront or similar, Cape Town
-
Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3
Coastal Wonders and the Marine Big 5
Today is likely to be an unforgettable day, as you day trip your way to Gansbaai, a former fishing village known for its spectacular fynbos scenery and shark diving industry. Set sail on an exclusive marine safari cruise, and keep your eyes peeled for whales, dolphins, seals, and great white sharks. After lunch, we take an insightful tour of the Dyer Island Conservation Trust. With the aim of protecting the biodiversity of the marine eco-system surrounding Dyer Island, the trust mainly focuses on the endangered African Penguin, the vulnerable Great White Shark and the Southern Right Whale. We have the opportunity to engage in discussion before returning to Cape Town. The evening is yours to explore the city at your own pace.
Coastal Wonders and the Marine Big 5
Today is likely to be an unforgettable day, as you day trip your way to Gansbaai, a former fishing village known for its spectacular fynbos scenery and shark diving industry. Set sail on an exclusive marine safari cruise, and keep your eyes peeled for whales, dolphins, seals, and great white sharks. After lunch, we take an insightful tour of the Dyer Island Conservation Trust. With the aim of protecting the biodiversity of the marine eco-system surrounding Dyer Island, the trust mainly focuses on the endangered African Penguin, the vulnerable Great White Shark and the Southern Right Whale. We have the opportunity to engage in discussion before returning to Cape Town. The evening is yours to explore the city at your own pace.
-
Radisson Red Waterfront or similar, Cape Town
-
Breakfast, Lunch
-
Radisson Red Waterfront or similar, Cape Town
-
Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4
Paddles and Penguins
Get ready for a fin-tastic kayaking adventure as you head to Simon’s Town for a paddle around the crystal-clear waters of False Bay. Here you are likely to spot seals and possibly a whale (in winter season). Then you’ll head to the world-famous Boulders Beach Penguin Colony. Prepare to be enchanted by the adorable antics of African penguins, as they waddle, swim, and bask in the sun along the sandy shores. Get up close and personal with these charismatic creatures as we get our feet wet with a tide pooling experience.
Paddles and Penguins
Get ready for a fin-tastic kayaking adventure as you head to Simon’s Town for a paddle around the crystal-clear waters of False Bay. Here you are likely to spot seals and possibly a whale (in winter season). Then you’ll head to the world-famous Boulders Beach Penguin Colony. Prepare to be enchanted by the adorable antics of African penguins, as they waddle, swim, and bask in the sun along the sandy shores. Get up close and personal with these charismatic creatures as we get our feet wet with a tide pooling experience.
-
Radisson Red Waterfront or similar, Cape Town
-
Breakfast, Lunch
-
Radisson Red Waterfront or similar, Cape Town
-
Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5
Sunset Safari
Jump on a plane to Hoedspruit today, your gateway to the untamed beauty of the African countryside. As the golden hues of dusk descend upon the savannah, embark on an unforgettable sunset safari adventure through the vast expanses of the Makalali Private Game Reserve. Spot lions, giraffes, leopards, and elephants, and listen to the sounds of nocturnal birds. After an exhilarating game drive, return to the luxurious comforts of Makalali Main Lodge for a mouth-watering dinner under the starlit African sky.
Sunset Safari
Jump on a plane to Hoedspruit today, your gateway to the untamed beauty of the African countryside. As the golden hues of dusk descend upon the savannah, embark on an unforgettable sunset safari adventure through the vast expanses of the Makalali Private Game Reserve. Spot lions, giraffes, leopards, and elephants, and listen to the sounds of nocturnal birds. After an exhilarating game drive, return to the luxurious comforts of Makalali Main Lodge for a mouth-watering dinner under the starlit African sky.
-
Makalali Main Lodge or similar, Greater Kruger
-
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
-
Makalali Main Lodge or similar, Greater Kruger
-
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6
Into the African Bush
Witness the majesty of elephants lumbering through the savannah, the grace of giraffes silhouetted against the rising sun, and the stealth of predators on the prowl, during a sunrise safari this morning. Return to the Lodge for a leisurely day of rest and relaxation. Lounge by the pool, treat yourself to a pampering spa treatment or simply unwind on your private deck, basking in the warmth of the African sun. Then prepare for another exhilarating adventure with a sunset game drive through the reserve. Top off your unforgettable day with some fine dining as you share stories of the day's adventures with fellow travellers.
Into the African Bush
Witness the majesty of elephants lumbering through the savannah, the grace of giraffes silhouetted against the rising sun, and the stealth of predators on the prowl, during a sunrise safari this morning. Return to the Lodge for a leisurely day of rest and relaxation. Lounge by the pool, treat yourself to a pampering spa treatment or simply unwind on your private deck, basking in the warmth of the African sun. Then prepare for another exhilarating adventure with a sunset game drive through the reserve. Top off your unforgettable day with some fine dining as you share stories of the day's adventures with fellow travellers.
-
Makalali Main Lodge or similar, Greater Kruger
-
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
-
Makalali Main Lodge or similar, Greater Kruger
-
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7
Sunrise, Serenity, Sunset, Repeat
Get another chance to spot the animals in the reserve today with a sunrise and sunset game drive. Enjoy some more down time in between safaris, taking time to enjoy the luxury amenities of the lodge, and end the day with another fabulous meal of regional African cuisine. As the stars illuminate the night sky, reflect on the beauty and serenity of your time in the bush, knowing that tomorrow holds even more treasures to discover.
Sunrise, Serenity, Sunset, Repeat
Get another chance to spot the animals in the reserve today with a sunrise and sunset game drive. Enjoy some more down time in between safaris, taking time to enjoy the luxury amenities of the lodge, and end the day with another fabulous meal of regional African cuisine. As the stars illuminate the night sky, reflect on the beauty and serenity of your time in the bush, knowing that tomorrow holds even more treasures to discover.
-
Makalali Main Lodge or similar, Greater Kruger
-
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
-
Makalali Main Lodge or similar, Greater Kruger
-
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8
Jozi Journey: Exploring Johannesburg
Enjoy one final exhilarating morning game drive through the reserve, giving you one last opportunity to spot the iconic Big 5. Then take a scenic drive to Johannesburg's vibrant Rosebank district. Your afternoon is free to explore the city. You could choose to browse the stalls at the hip Neighbourgoods Market where you’ll find unique souvenirs, and handcrafted treasures to commemorate your South African adventure. Alternatively, unwind and recharge at the hotel, and take a refreshing swim in the pool. A farewell dinner this evening will give you a chance to reminisce with your fellow travellers on all the wonders you have witnessed together over the last eight days.
Jozi Journey: Exploring Johannesburg
Enjoy one final exhilarating morning game drive through the reserve, giving you one last opportunity to spot the iconic Big 5. Then take a scenic drive to Johannesburg's vibrant Rosebank district. Your afternoon is free to explore the city. You could choose to browse the stalls at the hip Neighbourgoods Market where you’ll find unique souvenirs, and handcrafted treasures to commemorate your South African adventure. Alternatively, unwind and recharge at the hotel, and take a refreshing swim in the pool. A farewell dinner this evening will give you a chance to reminisce with your fellow travellers on all the wonders you have witnessed together over the last eight days.
-
Holiday Inn Rosebank or similar, Johannesburg
-
Breakfast, Farewell Dinner
-
Holiday Inn Rosebank or similar, Johannesburg
-
Breakfast, Farewell Dinner
Day 9
Farewell
Your African adventure comes to an end today. Whether you're returning home or you intend to continue exploring this beautiful continent (check out the Atlas Obscura Guide to South Africa for inspiration), we wish you well. Totsiens, until next time.
Farewell
Your African adventure comes to an end today. Whether you're returning home or you intend to continue exploring this beautiful continent (check out the Atlas Obscura Guide to South Africa for inspiration), we wish you well. Totsiens, until next time.
-
Breakfast
-
Breakfast
What is included?
-
Accommodations throughout the trip.
-
Most meals (as described in the itinerary).
-
Transportation (as described in the itinerary), including internal flights and airport transfers.
-
Admission/entry to activities (as described in the itinerary).
-
AO Trip Leader throughout the trip.
-
Special access to AO places and experiences (as described in the itinerary).
-
All gratuities (not including AO Trip Leader).
What is not included?
-
Flights to and from destination.
-
Pre/Post trip accommodations.
-
Travel insurance (strongly recommended).
-
Visas and passport fees.
-
Meals outside of those described (including most alcoholic beverages).
-
AO Trip Leader tip.
Additional info
Pricing & Trip Deposit
Deposit to book your trip: $250 USD.
Balance due 90 days prior to departure.
The listed price of the trip is per person based on double occupancy.
Pricing & Trip Deposit
Deposit to book your trip: $250 USD.
Balance due 90 days prior to departure.
The listed price of the trip is per person based on double occupancy.
Traveling solo?
You’re in good company.
Opt for a Private Room to yourself, subject to availability, for a supplemental cost:
2024 departures: $1,430 USD per person
2025 departures: $1,250 USD per person
Solo travelers typically make up about half of our small groups. With curiosity at the center of our experiences, there’s a natural camaraderie that develops over the course of a trip.
If you don’t opt for a Private Room, you'll be matched with another solo traveler of the same gender.
Traveling solo?
You’re in good company.
Opt for a Private Room to yourself, subject to availability, for a supplemental cost:
2024 departures: $1,430 USD per person
2025 departures: $1,250 USD per person
Solo travelers typically make up about half of our small groups. With curiosity at the center of our experiences, there’s a natural camaraderie that develops over the course of a trip.
If you don’t opt for a Private Room, you'll be matched with another solo traveler of the same gender.
Activity Level
This trip will require two to three miles of walking each day, mainly on flat and even ground, as well as occasional stairs.
Arrival & Departure
You should plan to arrive by 12 p.m. on Day 1, and depart after 12 p.m on Day 9. Cape Town International Airport (CPT) connects to a range of flight hubs in Europe. Connecting airlines include South African Airways, British Airways, Emirates and Qatar Airways.
*Airport transfers are only provided if arriving & departing on the trip dates, or if pre/post arrangements have been made through Atlas Obscura.
Arrival & Departure
You should plan to arrive by 12 p.m. on Day 1, and depart after 12 p.m on Day 9. Cape Town International Airport (CPT) connects to a range of flight hubs in Europe. Connecting airlines include South African Airways, British Airways, Emirates and Qatar Airways.
*Airport transfers are only provided if arriving & departing on the trip dates, or if pre/post arrangements have been made through Atlas Obscura.
Have more questions?
Check out the Essential Trip Information for this trip or our general FAQs.
Any questions about this trip? Don't hesitate to reach out
-
Call us at +1 833-919-9154
-
Send us a
Trip Leader
Melissa Cristina Márquez
Melissa Márquez is a marine science education expert. Born in Puerto Rico and raised in Mexico, Melissa has worked at the forefront of marine science education and communication for over a decade, hard at work combatting the misinformation that's rampant in ecological fields — and paving the way for Latina women like her in science. With her TEDx talks garnering thousands of views in their first weeks alone, Melissa is a prominent thought-leader and has engaged at global forums such as the National Academy of Science, Oxford, University of Western Australia Global Leader Experience, and National Science Policy Symposium, among others. Named one of Sachamama’s “Los 100 Latinos Más Comprometidos con la Acción Climática” in 2021, “Forbes 30 Under 30: Science” finalist in 2020, and named in InStyle’s 2021 “50 Badass Women” list, Melissa has been touted as “the most enthusiastic shark scientist” people ever meet. She has been featured in NPR, Allure, InStyle, GQ, Seeker, Popular Science, and appeared on Disney+, BBC, National Geographic, Discovery Channel, Acciona, and Good Morning America. When the ocean conservationist isn’t at sea filming for various TV shows, she has been instrumental leading the DEI charge in marine science, fighting for and advancing inclusive science communication efforts, and challenging the status quo for women in STEM. Through her advisory roles in Women in Ocean Science, Beneath The Waves, Minorities in Shark Sciences (MISS), and PangeaSeed, she hopes to leave a wake of opportunities for generations to come. A marine scientist by training, Melissa holds a Master of Science in Marine Biology from Victoria University of Wellington. Her first children book series, Wild Survival, was published in 2021-2022 by Scholastic to rave reviews. Her picture book memoir, Mother of Sharks, will be published in 2023 by Penguin Random House, followed by the Sea of Constellations picture book in 2024.
You might like these
Trip inquiry
Have a question for us about Wild South Africa? We're here to help!
-
Call us at +1 833-919-9154
-
Check out our FAQ
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Trip inquiry
Have a question for us about Wild South Africa? We're here to help!
-
Call us at +1 833-919-9154
-
Check out our FAQ
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.