🏞️
Panorama Route
God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, the Three Rondavels and the Blyde River Canyon.
10-Day Southern Africa Overland Adventure
10-Day Kruger Park, Eswatini, St Lucia & Lesotho Tour
Discover the very best of Southern Africa on one unforgettable journey through Kruger National Park, the Panorama Route, Eswatini, St Lucia, the spectacular Sani Pass and the mountain kingdom of Lesotho—all personally guided by Pieter Strydom since 1989.
10 days / 9 nights
Johannesburg to Durban
From R39,000 per person
Tour Route
Follow Your 10-Day Journey
Follow our journey from Johannesburg through the Panorama Route, Kruger National Park, Eswatini, St Lucia, Underberg, Sani Pass and Lesotho before returning to Underberg and finishing in Durban via Howick Falls.
Route shown is a general tour guide and may be adjusted according to road, weather and accommodation conditions.
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Duration
10 days
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Nights
9 nights
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Starts
Johannesburg
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Ends
Durban
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Countries
South Africa • Eswatini • Lesotho
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Price
From R39,000 pps
THE JOURNEY
Three countries. Ten unforgettable days.
This owner-guided overland tour links some of Southern Africa’s most rewarding landscapes in one carefully paced journey. Experience the Panorama Route and Kruger National Park, cross into the Kingdom of Eswatini, explore the wetlands of St Lucia, continue through Durban and climb Sani Pass into Lesotho.
You travel with Pieter Strydom, a registered national tourist guide since 1989, in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle with personal attention throughout the tour.
FROM
R39,000
per person sharing
- ✓ 9 nights’ accommodation
- ✓ Guided transport throughout
- ✓ Kruger safari experiences
- ✓ St Lucia estuary cruise
- ✓ Sani Pass 4×4 excursion
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
A journey filled with contrast
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Kruger safaris
Two rewarding safari days with excellent opportunities to search for the Big Five.
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Kingdom of Eswatini
Meet local artisans and visit Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary and Hlane Royal National Park.
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St Lucia wetlands
Cruise the estuary in search of hippos, crocodiles and abundant birdlife.
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Durban coast
Experience the warm Indian Ocean coastline before continuing into the Drakensberg.
⛰️
Sani Pass & Lesotho
Travel by 4×4 to the mountain kingdom and visit a traditional Basotho village.
DAY BY DAY
Your 10-day itinerary
A balanced route with time for wildlife, scenery, culture and relaxed exploration.
DAY 1
Johannesburg to the Panorama Route & Kruger area
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DAY 1
Johannesburg to the Panorama Route & Kruger area
Depart Johannesburg or Pretoria and travel east to Mpumalanga. Visit Bourke’s Luck Potholes, God’s Window and the Three Rondavels before descending into the Lowveld for your overnight stay near Kruger.
DAY 2
First Kruger National Park safari
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DAY 2
First Kruger National Park safari
Enter Kruger National Park after breakfast and begin searching for elephants, giraffes, zebra, predators and other wildlife. Later, join an organised sunset open-vehicle safari before returning to your lodge.
DAY 3
Full-day Kruger safari
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DAY 3
Full-day Kruger safari
An early start gives you a full day to explore Kruger’s river systems, waterholes and open savanna. Your guide helps you search for the Big Five and explains the behaviour of the animals encountered.
DAY 4
Kruger to Eswatini & Mlilwane
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DAY 4
Kruger to Eswatini & Mlilwane
Travel south and cross into the Kingdom of Eswatini. Visit Ngwenya Glass, pass through Mbabane and continue to Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary for a relaxed afternoon and overnight stay.
DAY 5
Swazi crafts, Manzini & Hlane
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DAY 5
Swazi crafts, Manzini & Hlane
Visit Swazi Candles in the Malkerns Valley, explore Manzini and continue to Hlane Royal National Park. Optional game drives may be booked, or relax while watching the waterhole.
DAY 6
Eswatini to St Lucia
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DAY 6
Eswatini to St Lucia
Re-enter South Africa and continue to St Lucia, gateway to the UNESCO-listed iSimangaliso Wetland Park. Check in and enjoy time to explore the village or nearby beach.
DAY 7
St Lucia estuary cruise
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DAY 7
St Lucia estuary cruise
Enjoy a relaxed morning or book an optional Hluhluwe–iMfolozi safari. In the afternoon, cruise the St Lucia estuary to see hippos, crocodiles and remarkable birdlife.
DAY 8
St Lucia via Durban to Underberg
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DAY 8
St Lucia via Durban to Underberg
Travel along the KwaZulu-Natal coastline through Durban and then inland toward the Southern Drakensberg. Overnight in the Underberg or Himeville area near the Sani Pass road.
DAY 9
Sani Pass 4×4 into Lesotho
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DAY 9
Sani Pass 4×4 into Lesotho
Join a specialist 4×4 vehicle and climb the dramatic Sani Pass into Lesotho. Visit a traditional Basotho village and enjoy time at the famous mountain pub before descending to Underberg.
DAY 10
Howick Falls, Mandela Capture Site & Durban
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DAY 10
Howick Falls, Mandela Capture Site & Durban
Travel through the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, stopping at Howick Falls and the Nelson Mandela Capture Site. Continue to Durban for a short orientation before hotel or King Shaka Airport drop-off.
TOUR PRICE
From R39,000 per person sharing
The rate is based on a minimum of four guests sharing twin or double rooms with en-suite bathrooms. Private departures for couples, families and small groups are available on request.
Prices are quoted in South African Rand and may vary according to travel dates, room category and accommodation availability. A confirmed written quotation will be supplied before booking.
Journey in Pictures
Experience the Tour Before You Travel
Every day brings something completely different—from the spectacular Panorama Route and Big Five safaris to colourful Swazi culture, hippos in St Lucia and the breathtaking mountain roads of Sani Pass.
DAY 1
Panorama Route
Travel through Dullstroom, the Blyde River Canyon, Three Rondavels, Bourke's Luck Potholes and God's Window before reaching Hazyview.
DAYS 2–3
Kruger National Park
Spend two unforgettable days searching for lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, buffalo and hundreds of other wildlife species.
DAY 4
Eswatini
Visit craft markets, beautiful valleys and experience one of Africa's most welcoming kingdoms.
DAY 6
Hippo Boat Cruise
Cruise through the famous St Lucia Estuary where hippos, crocodiles, fish eagles and countless bird species live.
DAY 8
Sani Pass
Climb one of Africa's most spectacular mountain roads into Lesotho and visit the famous Highest Pub in Africa.
DAY 10
Howick Falls & Durban
Visit beautiful Howick Falls before finishing your unforgettable journey on South Africa's Indian Ocean coast in Durban.
Why Choose This Tour
One Journey, Three Countries and Remarkable Variety
This 10-day owner-guided journey combines wildlife, mountain scenery, cultural experiences and the Indian Ocean coastline in one carefully planned route from Johannesburg to Durban.
🦁
Kruger National Park Safaris
Enjoy rewarding game-viewing experiences in one of Africa's most famous wildlife destinations, with opportunities to search for the Big Five and many other species.
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Panorama Route Scenery
Travel through Dullstroom and Ohrigstad to the Blyde River Canyon, Three Rondavels, Bourke's Luck Potholes and God's Window before continuing to Hazyview.
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Discover Eswatini
Experience the landscapes, traditions, craft centres and wildlife reserves of the Kingdom of Eswatini while travelling through this welcoming Southern African country.
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St Lucia and iSimangaliso
Visit the UNESCO-listed iSimangaliso Wetland Park and join a St Lucia estuary cruise to look for hippos, crocodiles and abundant birdlife.
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Sani Pass into Lesotho
Travel from Underberg by specialised 4×4 vehicle up the spectacular Sani Pass, cross into Lesotho and experience the dramatic mountain scenery and Basotho culture.
👨✈️
Personally Guided by Pieter
Travel with Pieter Strydom, a registered South African tourist guide since 1989, with personal service and regional knowledge throughout the journey.
10 Days
Johannesburg to Durban
3 Countries
South Africa, Eswatini and Lesotho
Since 1989
Registered owner-guide
Small Groups
Personal and flexible touring
Travel Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning a 10-day journey through Kruger National Park, Eswatini, St Lucia and Lesotho? Here are answers to the questions travellers ask most before booking with Big Six Tour Safaris.
Do I need a passport for this tour?
Yes. This tour crosses international borders into Eswatini and Lesotho, so every traveller must carry a valid passport. Depending on your nationality, a visa may also be required. We will advise you before your departure.
Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors to South Africa?
Absolutely. This is one of our most popular introductions to Southern Africa, combining wildlife, mountains, cultural experiences and the Indian Ocean coastline in one guided journey.
Will we see the Big Five?
Kruger National Park is home to the Big Five. While wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, spending two days in the park gives excellent opportunities to see lions, elephants, buffalo, rhinos, leopards and many other animals.
Who will be my guide?
Your tour is personally guided by Pieter Strydom, a registered South African tourist guide since 1989 with decades of experience leading tours throughout Southern Africa.
Wildlife Guide
Wildlife You May See on This Tour
This 10-day journey combines the Big Five of Kruger National Park with the hippos and Nile crocodiles of St Lucia, plus giraffes, zebras, buffalo and other wildlife across South Africa and Eswatini.
Every Safari Is Unique
Wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, as animals roam freely in their natural habitat. Weather, season, vegetation and animal movements all influence what we encounter each day. With more than 35 years of guiding experience, your guide will maximise every opportunity to find wildlife while always respecting nature and the animals' natural behaviour.
Big Five
African Lion
Lions are among the most exciting animals to encounter in Kruger National Park. Early-morning and late-afternoon game drives often provide the best opportunities to see prides resting, hunting or moving near waterholes.
Best chance: Kruger National Park
Big Five
African Elephant
Kruger protects one of Africa's largest elephant populations. Guests may encounter breeding herds, young calves and large bulls near rivers, grasslands and waterholes.
Best chance: Kruger and Hlane
Big Five
Leopard
Leopards are secretive and beautifully camouflaged. They are often found near riverine woodland, rocky areas or resting in large trees during the heat of the day.
Best chance: Southern Kruger
Big Five
White Rhino
White rhinos prefer open grassland and are often seen grazing quietly. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but this route includes several areas where rhinos may be encountered.
Best chance: Kruger and Hlane
Big Five
Cape Buffalo
Cape buffalo often gather in large herds near rivers and water sources. Their strength, size and unpredictable nature make them one of Africa's most respected wild animals.
Best chance: Kruger National Park
Plains Wildlife
Giraffe
Giraffes are regularly seen browsing on acacia trees throughout Kruger. Their height makes them easy to spot above the surrounding bushveld.
Best chance: Kruger and Eswatini
Plains Wildlife
Plains Zebra
Zebra are commonly seen in family groups and mixed herds with wildebeest, impala and other grazing animals across the savanna.
Best chance: Kruger and Mlilwane
St Lucia
Hippopotamus
The St Lucia Estuary is famous for its hippo population. The afternoon boat cruise provides excellent opportunities to observe pods resting, feeding and moving through the water.
Best chance: St Lucia Estuary
St Lucia
Nile Crocodile
Nile crocodiles are often seen basking on muddy banks or floating quietly in the St Lucia Estuary during the guided boat cruise.
Best chance: St Lucia Estuary
Tour Inclusions
What's Included & What's Not Included
We believe in transparent pricing. Here's exactly what is included in your 10-Day Kruger Park, Eswatini, St Lucia & Lesotho Tour.
✅
Included
Everything below is included in your tour price.
- ✔ 9 Nights comfortable accommodation
- ✔ Breakfast every morning
- ✔ All transport in an air-conditioned touring vehicle
- ✔ Professional owner-guide throughout the tour
- ✔ Kruger National Park conservation fees
- ✔ Sunset Open Vehicle Safari in Kruger National Park (Day 2)
- ✔ Full-Day Open Vehicle Safari in Kruger National Park (Day 3)
- ✔ St Lucia Hippo & Crocodile Boat Cruise
- ✔ Sani Pass 4×4 Excursion into Lesotho
- ✔ Border crossing assistance
❌
Not Included
Please budget separately for the following.
- ✖ International and domestic flights
- ✖ Lunches and selected dinners
- ✖ Personal purchases and souvenirs
- ✖ Alcoholic and soft drinks
- ✖ Travel insurance
- ✖ Tips and gratuities (optional)
- ✖ Optional activities not specifically listed as included
- ✖ Sunset Safari at Hlane Royal National Park (optional)
- ✖ Any activity or entrance fee not specifically mentioned under "Included"
Important Information
Any safari, excursion or activity that is not specifically listed under "Included" is considered optional and is not included in the tour price. This includes activities such as the optional sunset safari at Hlane Royal National Park and any additional experiences you may choose during the tour.
Why This Tour Is Different
One Journey. Six Incredible Destinations.
Most visitors experience only one part of South Africa. This carefully designed owner-guided tour combines the country's greatest wildlife, its most scenic mountain pass, beautiful coastline, living cultures and spectacular landscapes into one unforgettable adventure.
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World-famous Kruger Safari
Spend two unforgettable days exploring Kruger National Park, one of Africa's greatest wildlife reserves, searching for the Big Five with an experienced professional guide.
🏔️
The Panorama Route
Visit God's Window, Bourke's Luck Potholes, Three Rondavels and Blyde River Canyon, South Africa's most spectacular scenic drive.
🌊
Hippos & Crocodiles
Enjoy a relaxing sunset boat cruise on the St Lucia Estuary, home to Africa's largest hippo population and hundreds of Nile crocodiles.
🇸🇿
Discover Eswatini
Visit one of Africa's smallest kingdoms, meet local people, browse colourful craft markets and experience authentic Swazi culture.
⛰️
Drive Sani Pass
Travel one of Africa's most famous mountain roads into Lesotho, visit the Highest Pub in Africa and experience breathtaking mountain scenery.
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Personally Guided Since 1989
Unlike many operators, your tour is personally guided by Pieter Strydom, providing local knowledge, flexibility and over 35 years of experience.
Travel Information
Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
Planning your 10-Day Kruger Park, Eswatini, St Lucia and Lesotho adventure? Here are the practical travel tips and answers that help our guests prepare for a comfortable and unforgettable journey through Southern Africa.
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Passport & Border Crossings
This tour travels through South Africa, Eswatini and Lesotho. Every traveller must carry a valid passport. Visa requirements depend on your nationality, and we'll gladly advise you before your departure.
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Currency
South Africa uses the South African Rand (ZAR). Eswatini uses the Lilangeni. Lesotho uses the Loti. South African Rand is widely accepted throughout the entire tour.
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Best Time To Travel
This journey operates throughout the year. Winter offers excellent wildlife viewing with cool mornings. Summer brings lush scenery, dramatic thunderstorms and outstanding birdlife.
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Malaria Information
Kruger National Park is located in a malaria area. Please consult your doctor before travelling regarding suitable malaria prevention and personal medication.
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What Should I Pack?
- ✔ Comfortable walking shoes
- ✔ Light comfortable clothing
- ✔ Warm jacket for winter mornings
- ✔ Hat & sunglasses
- ✔ Sunscreen
- ✔ Camera & binoculars
- ✔ Personal medication
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Electricity & Charging
South Africa uses 230V electricity with Type M and Type N plugs. Most hotels provide charging facilities for cameras, phones and laptops.
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Mobile Coverage
Mobile reception is generally very good throughout the tour. Signal may be limited in remote mountain areas of Lesotho and Sani Pass.
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Luggage
One medium suitcase and one small daypack per traveller are recommended for comfort during the journey.
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Photography Tips
Bring spare batteries and memory cards. Early morning and late afternoon provide the best wildlife photography opportunities throughout Kruger National Park.
Why Guests Choose Big Six
Travel With Confidence
When you book with Big Six Tour Safaris, you're travelling with a registered South African tourist guide who personally accompanies you throughout your entire journey. No changing guides, no transfers between companies and no large tour buses.
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Personally Guided
Pieter Strydom personally guides your tour from Johannesburg to Durban, ensuring a consistent, professional and friendly experience.
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35+ Years Experience
Since 1989 Pieter has guided thousands of international visitors throughout Southern Africa.
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Comfortable Touring
Travel in an air-conditioned Toyota Quantum designed for small groups with panoramic windows perfect for wildlife viewing.
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Small Groups
Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, personal attention and plenty of opportunities to stop for photography along the journey.
Traveller Reviews
Trusted by Travellers Worldwide
For more than 35 years, Big Six Tour Safaris has welcomed guests from around the world. Read what recent travellers say about their Southern African adventure.
⭐
4.6
TripAdvisor Rating
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90+
Traveller Reviews
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40+
Countries Represented
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1989
Guiding Since
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Big Six Tour Safaris
Get Your 10-Day Kruger, Eswatini, St Lucia & Sani Pass Tour Quote
Planning this remarkable journey from Johannesburg to Durban? Pieter Strydom will personally prepare your quotation for the 10-day Kruger Park, Eswatini, St Lucia and Sani Pass tour.