South Africa Family Safari with Teenagers
Experience Overview
Travel through South Africa and Eswatini (Swaziland), combining cultural and wildlife experiences on this 12-day family adventure. The trip starts with an introduction to South Africa’s most famous township, Soweto, before heading out into the wilderness. Search for the Big Five in Hluhluwe Game Reserve, kayak around Kosi Bay and head north into the vast expanses of Hlane National Park. Venture into Kruger National Park for more unbelievable wildlife watching, participate in village life at a community homestay and get to see the stunning colours of Blyde River Canyon.
Highlights
- Visit a great spread of Southern African game reserves, putting you and your family right in the midst of the mighty 'Big Five' game of Africa.
- Camp at Kruger National Park under the African night sky. Experience the sights and sounds of the wild, perhaps the roar of a lion as you and your family drift off to sleep.
- Meet local families and learn about different South African cultures on an immersive and enriching homestay experience at Phiring village.
- Beautifully lit by candles and paraffin lanterns, your spacious campsite in Hlane National Park is just a stone's throw from a floodlit waterhole frequented by elephants and rhinos.
- Explore Kosi Bay by kayak – the kids will love paddling around the mangroves and learning about traditional fish traps.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2952
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Basic
Transport: Overland truck,4X4
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles:
Family
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: UWFS
Starts: Johannesburg, South Africa
Finishes: Johannesburg, South Africa
Duration: 12 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (11), Lunch (7), Dinner (9)Accommodation: Hotel (1 night),Camping with basic facilities (6 nights),Chalet Lodge (4 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $2,945 ($245 /day)
Itinerary
Sawubona! Welcome to South Africa. Your trip begins with a welcome meeting at 12 noon. Afterwards, head out on a cycling tour of Soweto – an exciting opportunity to get an insight into contemporary life in South Africa. You’ll visit the formal migrant workers’ hostel and be introduced to conditions of male mine workers and meet the families that live here today. Cycle through the vibrant community of Meadowlands, and continue to the Hector Pieterson Memorial, the historical landmark of the 1976 student's uprising, proceed to the famous Vilakazi street where Nelson Mandela used to live.
Included Activities:
- Soweto - Cycle Tour
Accommodation:
- Radisson Red Rosebank (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is a travel day. Depart Johannesburg early this morning and travel into the heart of KwaZulu Natal. Here you will camp at an ecolodge just outside of Hluhluwe–Imfolozi Park, which is home to some amazing wildlife, including lions, elephants, leopards, giraffes, buffaloes and wild dogs. The rest of the day is free for you to get settled into your surroundings.
Accommodation:
- Bonamanzi Game Reserve (Number of Nights: 1)
Embark on an adventure through the oldest proclaimed game reserve in South Africa. You’ll spend the day roaming around the park, stopping for a picnic lunch along the way. While you're here, you'll have the chance to see some of the 'Big Five' – African elephant, black rhinoceros, Cape buffalo, African lion and African leopard. There will also be a good chance of spotting the white rhino, as Hluhluwe-Imfolozi has the largest population of these near-threatened creatures in the world. A series of conservation efforts has saved them from extinction and their population is once again on the rise. The park also boasts some 400 species of birds, including the African finfoot, bat hawk and white-backed night heron.
Included Activities:
- Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park - Game drives
Accommodation:
- Bonamanzi Game Reserve (Number of Nights: 1)
Depart the game reserve this morning and travel northeast to the coast, visit the beautiful Kosi Bay Nature Reserve. The location of the bay is amazing. On the one hand there is picturesque jungle with wild figa and monkey orange trees, and a grazing area for hippos; on the other, a mangrove and coral reef that's teeming with aquatic life. Your accommodation, Kosi Bay Lodge, will be in comfortable log chalets. Enjoy a night under the stars as you relax around the campfire.
Included Activities:
- Kosi Bay Lodge
Accommodation:
- Kosi Bay Lodge (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, you and the family will get to explore Kosi Bay by kayak. It is particularly famous for the traditional Tsonga fish traps built to trap fish moving in and out of the estuary with the tide. The Tsonga people, who have made this land their home for more than 1,000 years, are experts in fish traps and the construction of fishkraal. There is also the opportunity to snorkel over the coral reef in search of some colourful fish. You’ll then have the rest of the day free.
Included Activities:
- Kosi Bay - Kayaking
- Kosi Bay Lodge
Accommodation:
- Kosi Bay Lodge (Number of Nights: 1)
Drive north, stop to stock up on supplies then reach the small land-locked kingdom of Eswatini (Swaziland), home to Hlane National Park. A vast expanse of bushveld and its ancient hardwood trees make the national park home to the largest wild herds in Eswatini. Your camp is spacious and has plenty of tree coverage, making for a nice spot to relax and be greeted by the odd inquisitive impala, warthog or nyala. If you're feeling adventurous, book a guided mountain bike trail, bird walk or game drive and explore the greater Hlane area. In the absence of electricity in Ndlovu Camp, the area is romantically lit at night with candles and parafin lanterns. It's also within easy reach of Ndlovu's semi-open-air restaurant and floodlit waterhole. Hlane Activities Center, a braai/barbeque area (with firewood provided), communal kitchen, and hot showers are all available.
Optional Activities:
- Hlane Royal National Park - Guided Walking Safari (200 ZAR)
- Hlane Royal National Park - Game Drive (335 ZAR)
Accommodation:
- Ndlovu Camp (Number of Nights: 1)
Explore Hlane National Park on a game drive. This park used to be a private royal hunting ground, which gives you some idea of its calibre as a wildlife-viewing destination. It is Eswatini's largest park, spanning an impressive 30,000 hectares. Landscape-wise, it’s a flat lowland area with some grasslands and shallow pans. There's a great chance of catching sight of wildebeest, zebra and impala, especially in the drier months. Notably, cheetahs were reintroduced to the park relatively recently. The park also has an abundant and diverse array of birdlife, boasting the highest density of nesting white-backed vultures in all of Africa.
Included Activities:
- Hlane Royal National Park - Guided 4x4 Sunset Game Drive
Optional Activities:
- Hlane Royal National Park - Game Drive (335 ZAR)
- Hlane Royal National Park - Guided Walking Safari (200 ZAR)
Accommodation:
- Ndlovu Camp (Number of Nights: 1)
Cross back into South Africa and journey to Kruger National Park – one Africa's very best wildlife arenas. On arrival you’ll start a game drive as you head towards your overnight campsite. Later on, there will be the option of a night drive with the park guide. This is a great chance to spot nocturnal animals and perhaps even a night-time predator or two – catch a lion or hyena out hunting, or perhaps an impala out in search of a late-night feed.
Included Activities:
- Kruger National Park - Overland Vehicle Game drive
Optional Activities:
- Kruger National Park - Night Game Drive (290 ZAR)
Accommodation:
- Skukuza campsite or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Enjoy further explorations of Kruger. You will embark on a second game drive today, hopefully spotting some animals you didn't cross off the list yesterday! One of the largest game reserves in Southern Africa, Kruger National Park boasts more than 500 bird species, 100 reptile species and 150 mammal species. The big five and the endangered African wild dog are no exceptions. Depending on the areas you visit, you'll have the chance to see some exotic birds along the way, from the tiny bronze mannikin to the more conspicuous ostrich. Keep an eye to the sky where, if you're lucky, a giant eagle owl or martial eagle might be soaring.
Included Activities:
- Kruger National Park - Full Day Game Drive
Accommodation:
- Skukuza campsite or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Leave Kruger this morning and make your way to Phiring village for a special homestay experience. You’ll be hosted by a local family with a 'mum', who’ll make you feel part of her own family. While you’re at the village, there’ll also be the chance to take part in a range of traditional activities, including floor-making, cooking, dancing or going for a scenic walk through the surrounding mountain area. Your stay here helps to provide local women and youth with economic independence and social empowerment.
Included Activities:
- Phiring Village homestay experience
Accommodation:
- Phiring homestay (Number of Nights: 1)
Say your farewells to the locals of Phiring this morning, then travel to Blyde River Canyon. One of South Africa's most spectacular attractions, Blyde River Canyon is the third largest canyon in the world, and probably the greenest. It's an excellent place for walking. The sheer-sided walls of the canyon rise over 2,000 metres and the vegetation varies wildly, from dry rocky sections to rainforest, depending on the altitude. You will explore the stunning Bourke's Luck Potholes, where shadowy rock formations take on different colours and shadings in the changing light.
Included Activities:
- Panorama Route - Three Rondavels
- Panorama Route - Bourkes Luck Potholes
Accommodation:
- Forever Resorts Blyde River Canyon (Number of Nights: 1)
Enjoy a morning of free time before returning to Johannesburg. Your trip comes to an end upon arrival at Tambo International Airport in the afternoon (usually between 2pm and 4pm). If you prefer, we can also drop you at the original joining point location. Please advise your booking agent before you depart or your leader during your welcome meeting on day 1. Please do not book any onwards flights until after 8pm this evening.
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Emma - Traveled, April 2024
I would recommend a family trip with Intrepid to anybody wishing to provide their kids with magical, cultural experiences with like minded people. Our adventures in South Africa could not have been better!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/12/2024
Dona - Traveled, April 2023
I can't say enough good stuff about this trip. For my daughter's first trip to Africa, our time with Intrepid absolutely exceeded expectations. It was just a pleasure to travel with other families and by the end of it, my daughters were in tears saying "we don't want this to end!!" We've all made lifelong friends and can't wait to travel with Intrepid again!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/17/2024
Neil - Traveled, April 2024
Our trip to South Africa for teenagers was fantastic. The crew was amazing with the group explained everything that we were seeing and doing and made sure we felt safe the whole time. Could not have asked for better
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/12/2024
Lisa - Traveled, April 2024
We loved our family trip to South Africa and had the most amazing time. Memories to last a lifetime. Would recommend highly to do this trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/12/2024
Eliza - Traveled, March 2024
The whole trip was amazing, we went on so many safaris and the guides were perfect. Always making sure we were happy. Smokele is the best chef ever! I also made a lot of new friends from all around the world I would rate this trip a 10/10
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/09/2024
James - Traveled, March 2023
This trip far exceeded our expectations! Our family had a wonderful time learning and seeing so much of this diverse, and culturally rich area of beautiful South Africa. We have all made some great friends in the group and crew who we hope to see again. Thank you Intrepid, until next time!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/09/2024
Daniel - Traveled, March 2024
Perfectly organised trip. A fantastic way to see animals and meet new people. The crew is made up of incredible people.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/09/2024
Lee - Traveled, September 2023
There are not enough words to describe how much we loved this trip. Amazing game viewing and a good range of wildlife parks. We saw the big 5 plus much more. Great sleeping in the tent and hearing lion calls at night! There were some long travel days but totally worth it for the diverse experiences we had. So many highlights, including standing so close to rhinos on our walking safari in Hlane and a beautiful sunset boat trip in Kosi Bay. Our leader, Jean, cook Samkhele and driver Goodman were excellent, we felt safe and well looked after the whole time and it was lovely sharing our experiences with another family. Highly recommend this trip and our teenagers loved it!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/10/2023
Allison - Traveled, September 2023
This is an excellent tour for families. Our guide Jean was amazing and we felt safe and looked after the entire trip. The food was excellent and the range of activities and sites covered was awesome. We saw the Big 5 and made some great friends. I would definitely recommend this trip to others.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/09/2023
Victorine - Traveled, August 2023
Overall an excellent formula for families with teenagers. We were very lucky with our group and we had a great chemistry within the different travellers and the excellent guide, driver and cook!!! Good balance between camping and lodges. The planned activities got you well covered and we did very few extra activities.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/01/2023
Jo - Traveled, August 2023
My family and I had an amazing time on this safari trip. We had a chance to meet locals and get a better understanding of life in South Africa. And we saw the big 5!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/20/2023
Joanne - Traveled, August 2023
South Africa with Teenagers are amazing! Our guide Leroy, cook Farai and driver Vuyani were incredible and made the journey so special. We saw the Big 5 and more, camping within some wonderful game reserves. We travelled to the coast to kayak and snorkel against a pristine beach and even travelled across the border into Estwatini. Definitely recommend this trip and Intrepid!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/20/2023
Heather - Traveled, August 2023
A good opportunity to see South Africa and learn about its past, present and future. Fabulous to be able to share once in a lifetime experiences with our children and with other families.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/20/2023
Imogen - Traveled, July 2023
From staring up at the pinkish belt of the Milky Way, falling asleep to the somehow soothing sound of lions chuffing to tracking rhinos in Eswatini, this trip was everything I had hoped for, and more. The crew made it even more special: Hildon, Nolo and Leroy were kind, accommodating and extremely knowledgeable.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/02/2023
Timothy - Traveled, July 2023
This holiday was the most wonderful adventure. We were expertly guided and saw every kind of wildlife, birds and plants. Our tour leader had a fantastic knowledge and communicated brilliantly. We made new friends with the other guests and the tour team. Highly recommended.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/24/2023
Zoe - Traveled, July 2023
We have recommended to friends. The trip was everything we expected and more. Our guide was so knowledgeable, our driver knew the best routes, and our cook made the most delicious food. All three thought of everything, so we could focus on enjoying the trip. They helped us at anytime, nothing was too much trouble. The noted and catered for our preferences. They really were the best, absolutely faultless. The itinerary was perfect for our family.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/29/2023
Melvin - Traveled, July 2023
Very enjoyable trip for the mildly adventurous, kids will love it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/29/2023
Steve - Traveled, June 2023
As an ex overland driver, this was my first trip taking the family, and I can tell you this is a fantastic tour for kids and parents alike. We had a great crew, the truck has everything you need, and it is a great mix of camping, lodges and activities. The itinerary gets you on and off the beaten track, with unexpected highlights like Hlane National Park in Eswatini and Kosi Bay. A wonderful tour that I would highly recommend for any family.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/14/2023
Alin - Traveled, June 2023
Overall a great trip! Food, staff, and amenities surpassed my expectations. In addition to this, the crew also was extremely understanding and informative, making the trip a great one. If your thinking of going to South Africa, I highly recommend Intrepid.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/10/2023
Anca - Traveled, June 2023
Great experience for my family, with lots of amazing scenery, wild animal sightings, delicious food and many interesting stories about culture, history and politics. Love the local staff, Jean, Amo and Clayton!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/10/2023
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