4 Day Kapama Kruger + Panorama Route at Kapama Safari - Luxury Kapama Kruger Lodge Fly-in from OR Tambo Johannesburg | Hotspots2c
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Tempo
Medium pace
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Kapama Kruger Safari + Panorama Route

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Duration of tour
4 days
Tailored

Transport Type

4x4 Jeep & Van
Departs when minimum requirements met

Overview

Explore the Greater Kruger region with a luxury safari escape with convenient airport transfers included between O.R.Tambo Airport and Kapama Private Game Reserve.

Escape to a remote wildlife reserve, away from the maddening crowds on the very outskirts of Kruger National Park, known as the Greater Kruger Region. As an introduction to your journey to Kapama Private Game Reserve - African's Garden of Eden -you'll take a slight detour with a guided road trip along one of South Africa’s most panoramic driving routes to the Blyde River Canyon with a viewpoint stop at the Three Rondawels lookout point.

Get ready for exhilarating safari experiences when you arrive at Kapama Private Game Reserve by late afternoon; a reserve known for its high density of big game animals as herds of buffalo, elephant and antelope roam freely in the over 13,000 hectares of vast savannah and riverine forest landscapes.

Daily 4x4 sunrise and sunset safari drives allow you enough time to search for wildlife, while guided bush walks allow you to appreciate and learn about the smaller insects and plants of this region. Downtime at Kapama is an equally decadent affair. A swim in the main pool can turn into a wild affair when giraffes graze mere feet away and elephants wander by for a closer look or even a drink at the waterhole. Spa time is taken to a new level with the help of traditional massage rituals and exotically-spiced treatments.

After days in safari heaven, it’s hard to leave paradise - but you'll leave with memory cards filled with photos and an even deeper connection with Africa as you arrive at OR Tambo airport early evening.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Start

Greater Kruger Region
End

Nelspruit
 
Distance
±
1200
km
Tempo
Medium pace
Ideal For
Family
Couple
Friends

Why You'll Love It

  • Views for days as you meader along the Panorama Route - the third largest canyon, and the largest green canyon on earth.

  • Enjoy a touch of English luxe on a Kapama sunset safari.

  • Take a walk on the wild side with a Kapama Ranger.

  • Savour an alfresco feast for the senses at a lantern-lit boma dinner.

  • Indulge in some spa time in the heart of the African bush.

  • Get an early start on a sunrise 4x4 safari.

Itinerary guideline

This tour itinerary may travel in a different or reverse route subject to availability and weather conditions. 
Day 1
Hazyview Region > Greater Kruger Region

Start with a transfer and pick-up service included from Hoedspruit Airport. Contact us first before booking flights for advice on the best flight times to fit this tour.

Today is really about transitioning to the vast savannah and riverine forest bushveld landscapes in the Greater Kruger region where you'll overnight.  As the sun rises higher on the horizon, you'll reach a lush mountainous route that's described as ‘one of the most beautiful places in the world’ - the Panorama Route. The most popular stretch of the route is the R532 that winds its way towards the unspeakably gorgeous God's Window, the Blyde River Canyon, Bourke's Luck Potholes and The Three Rondawels. We stop for a short hike to the viewpoint for ultra-scenic, 360-degree panoramic views of Mother Nature’s finest uninterrupted vistas at the Three Rondawels stop.


Follow this scenic route as it 'paints' the countryside with emerald brushstrokes through deep valleys and over mountain peaks to arrive at Kapama Private Game Reserve by late afternoon at your home-away-from-home for the next three nights; the 5-star graded River Lodge.
Today, you’ll have the luxury of time to relax into safari lodge living... You don’t even have to venture far to encounter local wildlife; nyala, antelope and vervet monkeys are eagerly waiting to 'greet' you along the walkways to your room. Kapama runs two included daily game drives – one early morning and the other at sunset. Combined with their early morning guided bushwalks you'll be sure to explore a large chunk of this wildlife-rich reserve that stretches over 13,000 hectares.


After your day of travel, your dinner awaits at the camp's boma restaurant for a dining experience under the stars by candlelight. As in classic Old Africa, evening meal delicacies may feature chakalaka relish, local game - kudu casserole or venison curry with exotic spices. Vegetarian or any other meal options are catered for too.

You'll overnight at Kapama for the next 3 nights. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Stay Package

Accommodation included according to your selected stay package. Subject to availability.

Day 2-4
Greater Kruger Region

Safari life, by its very nature, means early morning starts… but here, you can’t help but be charmed by the rising sun’s ability to paint a technicolour palette over the South African Lowveld horison.

Day 2-3:  Every morning stars with an exhilarating early morning sunrise safari to join the wild as it awakes. A chance to tick off your bingo sheet of animal sightings and peer through the underbrush looking for Africa’s most elusive animals.  More than 350 bird species, 40+ mammal and 110+ reptile species call this land home and a morning bushwalk on foot with a local expert safari guide is like being on a Discovery Channel documentary. Every attention is paid to safety as big cats could be up and about after a night of hunting and other big game animals like elephant, rhinoceros and cape buffalo tend to rise early too.  As the walk progresses, other creatures begin to stir and flocks of birds take flight as the bush awakes. Your guide will teach you the medicinal values of some plants, point our smaller wildlife and insects and share knowledge about the intricacies of animal tracking by footprints and by dung.

Kick-start the day with a leisurely breakfast that drips with fresh seasonal ingredients and as the day lengthens, it’s yours to enjoy at will. Explore the lodge surrounds; take a dip in the pool or relax with an optional spa treatment.

After the morning’s activities, a lazy lunch and some rest time, get your camera's ready as it's time for the sunset safari drive in search of Africa’s Big Five and your local game ranger will especially focus on tracking down the big cats on the reserve. Each day is different and you just may get lucky and witness the thrill of a predator chase and kill or simply stumble upon a herd of elephant or buffalo slashing at the riversedge. Enroute, you’ll stop for a sundowner drink as you watch the sun set over the distant blue peaks of the Drakensberg mountains.

By now you'll be used to the rhythm of safari-life; eat, safari, sleep and repeat...what a life! That's correct another fine African inspired cuisine menu is lined by for an unforgettable night at the boma restaurant; sharing stories and sightings of the day's safari's or taking a late-night dip in the pool by moonlight.

 

Day4: Sadly all good things have to come to an end and after the early morning safari and breakfast, your airport transfer shuttle will deliver you back at O.R.Tambo by late afternoon.

 
 
 
 
 
 

End the tour with a transfer and drop-off included at Nelspruit Airport.

Included

Join an Outsourced Group

A minimum group size is required to confirm this tour and/or discount rate.

Maximum amount of guests per vehicle or guide are limited to ensure a smaller group tour experience. This transfer portion of this trip may run exclusively for you but game drives and other activities on tour will join other travellers or small groups.

Local Guide

Led by a local English-speaking professional tour guide.

Transport & Airport Transfers

Transfers to included highlights of the tour are included.

Airport transfers from Hoedspruit Airport to Lodge and the return transfer from Lodge to Nelspruit Airport are included.

Accommodation

3 nights accommodation at Kapama Lodge + reserve conservation levy included.

Most meals

Meals and most local drinks at lodge are included: 3x breakfast, 2x lunch, 3x dinner

Safaris

3x Sunrise Safaris, 2x Bush Walk Safaris, 2x Sunset Safaris

Included Activities & Entry fees
  • Kapama Sunrise Safaris
  • Kapama Bush Walk Safari
  • Kapama Sunset Safaris
  • Kapama Boma Dinner Experience
  • Panorama Route Drive

Excluded

✕ Optionals

Optional activities can be paid for and booked during your journey.

  • Kapama Spa Treatments
✕ Travel Insurance

You are responsible for your own personal travel insurance. 

✕ Flights

Local and international flights are excluded.

✕ Some drinks

Most local brands drinks are included.

✕ Malaria Risk Precautions

The Greater Kruger region is situated within a malaria-risk area. Precautions against malaria should be taken in the form of wearing mosquito repellent and taking anti-malaria medication is advisable when travelling to South Africa's malaria risk areas. Consult with your nearest travel clinic for more information.



Ask us to quote for your specific travel dates.

Terms & Conditions

Click on the terms for more details.

Payment Policy: 25% deposit to reserve
  • 25% deposit is required to reserve a booking request upon acceptance of the quote for custom tours.
  • Full payment is required for online payments and needs to be paid at least 30 days before the departure date to confirm the reservation.
Cancellation / Refund Policy: Easy cancellation - 30 day 75% refund
  • If you cancel 30 days or more before the scheduled departure, there is a 25% cancellation fee.
  • If you cancel between 8 and 29 days before the scheduled departure, there is a 50% cancellation fee.
  • If you cancel within 7 days of the scheduled departure, there is a 100% cancellation fee.
  • If cancellations are due to COVID related restrictions we will refer to our COVID refund policies and allow a part credit voucher.
  • See up to date full terms online at https://hotspots2c.co.za/agent#terms
Child Policy: Kapama is child friendly
  • Children under the age of 12 years old sharing with two adults can be charged less 50% of the per person sharing rate.
  • No children under the age of 12 years old allowed at Buffalo Camp.
  • Children under the age of 6 years are not permitted on game drives, except on a specially arranged "bush bumble" safari.
  • Children between the age of 6 and 12 years are permitted on game drives at the sole discretion of the ranger.

FAQ



  Click on question to show answer

How can we help you plan your dream tour package?
Hotspots2c is a tour operator based in the Cape Town region.  We offer tour packages that include guided transport + accommodation + day activities. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions or to turn your trip wishlist into the tour package of your dreams.
Benita Stroebel
Custom Journeys

When I started my profession in hospitality; working as a guesthouse manager for many years - I've always been involved in creating personalised experiences for guests to make the stay extra special. This has grown into my work passion and as a journey designer I love being able to create customer specific tailored trips that will be remember for the rest of their lives. In between my day job, I also create my own memories and test out experiences by spending time with my family (usually on the beach) and as a novice photographer; love to capturing it all on camera.

contact me

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South Africa

  

11 official Languages Spoken

Afrikaans – English – isiNdebele – Sepedi.– Sesotho – Siswati – Xitsonga – Setswana – Tshivenda – isiXhosa

How to say hello?

Molo – Xhosa

Sawubona - Zulu

Hallo - Afrikaans

Dumela - SeSotho

 

Electricity – Volt & plug

The South African electricity supply is 220/230 volts AC 50 HZ. Most plugs are 15 amp 3-prong or 5 amp 2-prong, with round pins.

Measurements 

Metric System

 

WiFi/Internet Access on tour 

WiFi can be found at most accommodations, restaurants and airports, however, the download speed is often slow and many connections limit your data usage. In short, you’ll be able to stay connected with home, but don't expect to watch HD movies in your spare time.

 

When to go

South Africa is blessed with a mostly mild climate, but different areas will yield different temperatures throughout the year. Summer in South Africa is usually peak season, lasting between November – February, however, Easter time (March) is often still considered peak season too. Temperatures range from 25ºC in coastal areas to high 30ºs in inland areas. Cape Town has ideal weather during this time and Durban sports warm beaches and humid air, Johannesburg experiences hot clear days and often an afternoon thunderstorm.

The shoulder season is April and May, as well as September and October. Surprisingly, the weather in Durban is often at its best during this time, and other areas simmer down from their scorching highs. Prices are lower and crowds are smaller. September and October see eruptions of flowers and blooms all around the country.

Winter is beautiful in most parts of the country. Cape Town experiences winter rain and is often a little cold and miserable, but still crisp and beautiful. Because of the warm Indian Ocean, Durban has spectacular weather in winter, often hovering around 20-25ºC with clear blue skies. Inland areas get quite chilly and the odd snowfall is not uncommon (it only lasts for a day though!). Prices are at an all-time low and it is an ideal time for game viewing, as the animals are more active in the cooler weather. 

The Garden Route enjoys a Mediterranean Oceanic climate, which is intrinsically temperate and mild almost all year round. Summers are warm to hot, and winters are cool. Second only to Hawaii, the Garden Route is acclaimed for having one of the mildest climates in the world.

However, the winter rain season can cause some delays for outdoor activities but the mild sunny days and the appeal of seeing the Southern Right Whale migration makes the Cape Whale Coast & Garden Route an ideal destination during the European summer holidays. You can expect cool mornings and evenings, but usually the climate remain bright and sunny during the day.

 

Best time to go where?

Jun-Jul ( mid winter) = Safari in Kruger region

Jan-Feb ( mid summer) = Cape Town city or beach destinations along the Cape Coast

Year-Round = Moderate weather in the Garden Route region

 

Public Holidays

With the possible exception of Christmas Day and New Year's Day, most tourist services and attractions are open on South African public holidays. In addition most city shopping centres, restaurants and entertainment venues remain open.

1 Jan   New Year's Day
21 Mar   Human Rights Day
30 Mar   Good Friday
2 Apr   Family Day
27 Apr   Freedom Day
1 May   Workers' Day
16 Jun   Youth Day
9 Aug   National Women's Day
24 Sep   Heritage Day
16 Dec   Day of Reconciliation
17 Dec   Day of Reconciliation Holiday
25 Dec   Christmas Day
26 Dec   Day of Goodwill

 

Visa & Travel docs

Travellers from most Commonwealth countries (excluding New Zealand), most Western European nations, Japan and the USA receive a free, 90-day visitor's permit on arrival. These travellers do not need a visa to enter South Africa. A valid passport is essential with at least two empty pages. You generally will need to show return or onward travel arrangements. Children aged under 18 must show an unabridged birth certificate (showing both parents details).

Some countries do, however, need a visa. Visas are not issued upon entry, they must be attained beforehand. It is advised that you clarify this before you leave, the Department of Home Affairs office has a comprehensive list of countries that do not require visas. http://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/immigration-services/exempt-countries

 

What to pack

We're generally laid back in South Africa, so no need to haul out your best silks and diamonds when you head to our shores. Here's some clothing advice when in South Africa:

  • For the summers, bring clothes that are cool and comfortable, along with an umbrella or rain jacket, as this is when most of the country gets rain. A light jacket or wrap is a good precaution. Don't forget a swimming costume.
  • The winters are generally mild, comparing favourably with European summers. But we do get some days when temperatures plummet, especially in high-lying areas such as the Drakensberg (some nights go below 0ºC), so be prepared with jerseys and jackets. If you are going to the Cape, rain gear will be needed in this season (your average here will be between 10-20ºC).
  • Always bring a hat - the sun can be strong even in the winter months. Make sunglasses, a hat and sunblock a firm part of your skin care kit.
  • Walking shoes are a good idea all year-round, with warm socks in the winter.
  • For game viewing, a couple of neutral-toned items will be useful, but there's no need to go overboard and kit yourself out like David Livingstone, out to explore Africa for the first time.
  • For the evening, if you are dining at an upmarket restaurant or seeing a show, go the smart-casual route. If you are simply going out to get a bite to eat, a general “no shirt, no shoes - no service” rule applies, so as long as you are fully clad, your attire should not be an issue.
  • When travelling with Hotspots2c we encourage reasonably sized bags for multi-day tours and we are able to accommodate bags that are on average under 20kgs. For one and two day tours, a light backpack is encouraged. 

  

Health & Safety

There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter South Africa with exception of a yellow fever vaccination if you have been in a yellow fever area within the last 12 months.

The only major health risk you might face in South Africa is malaria, which is confined to small areas in the north-eastern parts of the country. Small pockets of the northern parts of the Kruger National Park fall under this area but the risk here is considered extremely low and it is not always necessary to take anti-malaria tablets. Remember as a precautionary measure to check with your doctor or a local travel clinic on what is recommended for your country to visit South Africa.

 

For more info about the safety regulations on tour - please see https://hotspots2c.co.za/ideas/safetravels

 

South Africa may have high crime statistics, but if you conduct yourself wisely, most tourists enjoy the country without any incident at all. Here are some tips: ensure that you lock away your passports and travel documents in a safe, which is usually provided by your accommodation or keep valuables at a safe place. Don't flash around valuables and keep an eye on your belongings at all time. Majority of South Africa’s crime is opportunistic petty crime, so if you are vigilant about your belongings you should not have any problem.

 

Getting Around 

South Africa has 3 world-class airports that receive international flights every day; Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town. Most international airlines will have flights into one or all of these airports daily.

There are numerous budget carriers that offer domestic flights between the major cities for very reasonable rates; this is the fastest and safest way to span large distances, especially between Johannesburg and Cape Town, which is a 2-hour flight.

From the airports there are numerous shuttles and taxis that you can pick up upon arrival, there are also many different car hire options at each airport and in all major cities. Uber is another reliable and affordable option.

 

Money 

Our currency in South Africa is the South African Rand. You can easily convert your currency to rand at a bank or Forex Bureau, the airports and larger towns often have many different Forex options. You can also withdraw from an ATM, banks are available throughout South Africa. Be sure to check what international bank charges you will incur for withdrawals before you arrive. Major credit cards are usually accepted in hotels or restaurants, however, there may be a surcharge. It is advisable to have small amounts of cash for curios and tipping. 

Tipping

  • Tour Guides and Drivers – Tipping on tour is neither expected nor compulsory, however, should you wish to tip the team on the road you are welcome to decide on a value that match the level of service received. A recommendation usually range from R50 to R200 per person per day.
  • Restaurants and Bars - Tipping in restaurants is the norm and is customarily kept at 10% of the total shown on the bill. Many restaurants will add a 10% service charge to a bill if the number of guests exceeds six or ten.
  • Hotels - At hotels you may also leave money to housekeeping at the end of your stay. Porter fees may already be included in your quote, and will be listed under your tour package inclusions.
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