Kruger & Matobo Rhino Encounter - 7 Days
Kruger & Matobo Rhino Encounter - 7 Days
Kruger & Matobo Rhino Encounter - 7 Days
7 Days Starting in Pretoria, South Africa and ending in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Visiting: Pretoria, Kruger National Park, Polokwane, Bulawayo, Matobo National Park, Victoria Falls
Tour operator:
Tour code:
2825/KMRE
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 12
Age range:
8-
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a thrilling 7-day adventure through South Africa and Zimbabwe with the Kruger & Matobo Rhino Encounter. This small group tour takes you along the breathtaking Panorama Route to the stunning Blyde River Canyon, and into the heart of Kruger National Park for an unforgettable Big Five safari experience. Discover the rich culture of the Bakone tribe in Polokwane and explore the wildlife-rich Matobo National Park on foot, guided by experts. Marvel at the majestic Victoria Falls and enjoy a serene sunset dinner cruise on the Zambezi River. Stay in comfortable lodges like the Sunset Game Lodge and Travellers Guest House, offering modern amenities and authentic local charm. With included meals, guided tours, and park entrance fees, this tour promises an exhilarating and immersive African experience.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Pretoria
Location: Pretoria
Accommodation Name: Sunset Game Lodge
Meals Included: Dinner
Pretoria - Hoedspruit. Early this morning we depart from Pretoria, South Africa's administrative city and drive across the picturesque Mpumalanga province, relishing in the breath-taking mountain vistas. A stop at the Blyde River Canyon offers us the chance to admire the peculiar Three Rondavels rock formations perched at the canyon's edge and enjoy the picturesque views. After lunch we continue the journey to our lodge, situated 38km from Kruger National Park.
Please Note: You will need to arrive in Pretoria at least one night before your tour. There will be a pre-departure meeting at 18:00 hrs on the evening prior to departure and the tour departs at 07:00 hrs on day 1. Refer to the Joining Instructions in our Trip Notes for more information. We can book an airport transfer from Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport and Pretoria pre-tour accommodation upon request.
Day 2: Kruger National Park
Location: Kruger National Park
Accommodation Name: Sunset Game Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Early this morning we board 4x4 game viewing vehicles and head into Kruger National Park with a professional guide. Kruger is home to all of the Big Five (lion, elephant, rhino, leopard, buffalo) and is an African stronghold for the white rhino and the critically endangered black rhino. We game drive in the morning and afternoon with a break during the middle of the day at a rest camp, when it is hottest and wildlife is usually less active. After an exhilarating day of wildlife spotting we leave the park and return to our accommodation for dinner and overnight.
Day 3: Pretoria
Location: Polokwane
Accommodation Name: Destiny Inn Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Hoedspruit - Polokwane. After breakfast we leave the Kruger area and travel across undulating countryside to the northern town of Polokwane. This scenic journey takes us over some beautiful mountain passes and through verdant citrus plantations nestled along the valleys of the Limpopo Province.
Arriving into Polokwane we meet our guide and other members of the group at the lodge before heading off to visit an open-air museum and learn about the local Bakone culture. The museum offers insights into the traditional practices of the Bakone tribe, unveiling their historical methods of fire-making, mielie meal preparation, and the distinctive decorations that grace their dwellings.
Please note: This tour departs Pretoria at 10am and we strongly recommend that you plan to arrive the day before departure to overcome any jetlag and acclimatise to Africa. We can book Johannesburg (JNB) airport transfers and pre tour accommodation in Pretoria upon request.
Day 4: Bulawayo
Location: Bulawayo
Accommodation Name: Travellers Guest House
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Polokwane - Bulawayo (Zimbabwe). After breakfast we traverse the South African-Zimbabwean border at Beitbridge and travel on to Bulawayo, a city characterized by broad tree-lined avenues and expansive open spaces. The surrounding area boasts historical, geological, and natural attractions, including the renowned Matobo National Park. Our accommodation is set in a peaceful garden setting on the outskirts of Bulawayo.
Day 5: Matobo N.P.
Location: Matobo National Park
Accommodation Name: Travellers Guest House
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning we venture into Matobo National Park for a half-day Nature Drive and Wilderness Walk. This reserve boasts the highest concentration of Black and White Rhino in Africa. Our knowledgeable guide will lead us on foot to some of the more concealed places in search of these magnificent animals. This remarkable park also has the densest population of leopard and black eagle in the world, and we keep our eyes peeled high and low for these creatures. After the tour we travel back to our Bulawayo guesthouse for leisurely afternoon.
Alternatively, you can book an optional extension to today's tour. Head into the Matobo Hills to see some of the ancient Bushmen paintings in the area and visit the grave of Cecil Rhodes, an important but controversial historical figure who ruled as Prime Minister of the colonial Cape Colony from 1890 - 1896.
Day 6: Victoria Falls
Location: Victoria Falls
Accommodation Name: Shearwater Explorers Village
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Bulawayo - Victoria Falls. Leaving Bulawayo behind, we journey north to Victoria Falls. By early afternoon we reach this small town which is situated along the southern banks of the Zambezi River and serves as Zimbabwe’s primary tourist centre. The Victoria Falls are just a short walk away, surrounded by markets, shops, and cafes. To cap off the day, we join a serene sunset dinner cruise on the Zambezi River, on the look out for elephants, buffalo, buck, hippo, and birdlife along the riverbanks. We then return to our accommodation for the night or you can head out to enjoy the local nightlife.
Day 7: Victoria Falls
Location: Victoria Falls
Accommodation Name: Shearwater Explorers Village
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, we visit Victoria Falls National Park to witness one of Africa’s most spectacular sights. Stroll along the pathways to view the mighty Victoria Falls from different view points. Your tour ends after the falls visit. We do, however, recommend that spend a few extra days to explore the Victoria Falls area. The Zambezi boasts one of the world’s highest rated rivers for pure white river rafting through its many challenging and novice rapids. From game walks, Micro-light flight or white-water rafting to name a few, Victoria Falls will capture and fulfil your imagination, validating the myths of the African spirit.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Simple Accommodation -
6 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 6 dinners
Enjoy 6 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 6 dinners during your tour.
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6 nights twin share accommodation
Stay in twin share accommodation for 6 nights.
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Transportation in a minibus and custom-built vehicle
Travel in comfort with transportation provided in a minibus and custom-built vehicle.
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Kruger National Park - Full Day Open Vehicle Game Drive with Resident Guide
Experience a full day open vehicle game drive in Kruger National Park with a resident guide.
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Bakone Open Air Cultural Museum
Visit the Bakone Open Air Cultural Museum to learn about local culture.
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Matobo National Park, Half Day Open Vehicle Game Drive and Wilderness Walk with Resident Guide
Enjoy a half-day open vehicle game drive and wilderness walk in Matobo National Park with a resident guide.
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Victoria Falls visit and Zambezi Sunset Dinner Cruise
Visit Victoria Falls and enjoy a sunset dinner cruise on the Zambezi River.
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Park entrance fees
All park entrance fees are included in the tour.
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Escorted by an English-speaking driver / tour leader
The tour is escorted by an English-speaking driver and tour leader.
What's Not Included
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International flights and visas
International flights and visas are not included in the tour.
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Airport transfers - can be booked on request
Airport transfers are not included but can be booked on request.
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Tipping - an entirely personal gesture
Tipping is not included and is an entirely personal gesture.
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Optional activities (prices listed in Trip Notes)
Optional activities are not included and prices are listed in the Trip Notes.
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Local payment - $390pp, paid in USD
A local payment of $390 per person, paid in USD, is not included.
Accommodation
Experience a blend of comfort and adventure at the Sunset Game Lodge, Destiny Inn Lodge, Travellers Guest House, and Shearwater Explorers Village. Enjoy air-conditioned rooms, swimming pools, and local cuisine, all set in stunning natural surroundings, from the bushveld to the vibrant city of Bulawayo and the iconic Victoria Falls.
Age Policy
Minimum age 8
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort with transportation provided by a minibus and custom-built vehicle, ensuring a seamless journey through South Africa and Zimbabwe. Enjoy game drives in open vehicles with resident guides, offering an immersive experience in Kruger and Matobo National Parks.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of wildlife can I expect to see during the tour?
During the tour, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife including the Big Five (lion, elephant, rhino, leopard, buffalo) in Kruger National Park. Matobo National Park is known for its high concentration of Black and White Rhinos, as well as leopards and black eagles. Additionally, during the Zambezi River sunset dinner cruise, you may spot elephants, buffalo, hippos, and various bird species.
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What cultural experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a visit to the Bakone Open-Air Museum in Polokwane, where you can learn about the culture and lifestyle of the Bakone tribe, including their traditional practices and historical methods.
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What activities are available at Victoria Falls?
At Victoria Falls, you can enjoy a sunset dinner cruise on the Zambezi River. There are also optional activities such as white river rafting, canoeing, scenic flights, bungee jumping, or relaxing with afternoon tea at the Victoria Falls Hotel.
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What is the accommodation like during the tour?
The tour includes stays at various lodges and guest houses. The Sunset Game Lodge offers contemporary comfort with en-suite rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant. Destiny Inn Lodge in Polokwane provides cozy rooms with modern amenities and a tranquil garden setting. Travellers Guest House in Bulawayo offers a charming retreat with local artwork and a serene garden. Shearwater Explorers Village in Victoria Falls provides affordable accommodation with campsites and chalets, along with a range of activities.
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Is there a guide provided during the tour?
Yes, the tour is escorted by an English-speaking driver/tour leader, and includes guided game drives and walks with resident guides in Kruger National Park and Matobo National Park.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Low Deposit
On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.