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12-Day Vic Falls, Cape Town, Sabi Sand & Timbavati Safari

Accra, Botswana

12-Day Vic Falls, Cape Town, Sabi Sand & Timbavati Safari

5.0 / 5 · 82 reviews Offered by Explore and Travel Africa 12-Day

Overview

Discover the best of Southern Africa on this unforgettable safari to Victoria Falls, Cape Town, and the wildlife-rich Kruger Park reserves of Sabi Sand and Timbavati. From the thundering Falls to the vibrant culture and cuisine of Cape Town, and from luxury lodges to thrilling Big Five encounters, every stop offers something remarkable. This journey is perfect for travellers seeking dramatic scenery, iconic wildlife, and the warmth of true African hospitality.

Plan snapshot

Quick Facts

Tour details

Duration

12-Day

Route

Johannesburg to Johannesburg (Johannesburg)

Via Victoria Falls, Cape Town (City), Sabi Sands

Country & park

Botswana

Style

Safari

Group size

1-12 travelers

Starts

Any day if available

Minimum age

12 years

Activities

game drives & boat trip

Accommodation

Insika Lodge - Luxury lodge at Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) – Breakfast Included

Meals

Breakfast Included; All Meals Included

Pickup

Airport transfer included

Booking

Request quote

Currency

ZAR

12-Day Vic Falls, Cape Town, Sabi Sand & Timbavati Safari
Accra visual context for this itinerary.

Rates

Rates Per Person

ZAR

Start datesSingle2+ people
Jan 5, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027 n/a* ZAR R 106,986 ZAR

Before booking

Important To Know

This tour is not available to solo travelers or groups larger than 4 people.
Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
This tour is offered in South African Rand (ZAR).
This tour accepts children who are 12 years and older.
Rates include a fixed budget for flights during this tour. Flights may cost more, depending on travel dates. If so, your quote will reflect this.

Quote flow

Request Guidance

We advise requesting quotes from 3 operators ()
Requests are sent directly to the tour operator
If preferred, you can contact the tour operator directly
Request a Quote

Route

Tour route map
country South Africa
Start Johannesburg (Day 1)
country Zimbabwe
Day 1-3 Victoria Falls
country South Africa
Day 4-6 Cape Town (City)
Day 7-8 Sabi Sands (Greater Kruger)
Day 9-11 Timbavati NR (Greater Kruger)
End Johannesburg (Johannesburg) (Day 12)

Tour Features

Luxury tour

This luxury tour uses lodges and hotels.

Private tour

This tour will be organized exclusively for you. However, wildlife viewing activities are run by the lodges/camps and will be shared with others.

Can start any day

If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.

Can be customized

You can request changes to this tour.

Not for solo travelers

Solo travelers cannot book this private tour.

12
Minimum age of 12 years

The minimum age for this tour is 12 years.

Activities & Transportation

Activities: game drives & boat trip
Game drives: open-sided 4x4 vehicle
Getting around: minivan, bus & air transfer
This operator can select your international flights, but you'll have to book them yourself
A transfer from and back to the airport can be arranged for an extra cost

Accommodation & Meals

Insika Lodge

Day 1-3

Insika Lodge

Luxury lodge at Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) – Breakfast Included

Breakfast Included

Insika LodgeInsika LodgeInsika Lodge
The Winchester Hotel

Day 4-6

The Winchester Hotel

Luxury hotel in Cape Town (City, South Africa) – Breakfast Included

Breakfast Included

The Winchester HotelThe Winchester HotelThe Winchester Hotel
Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside

Day 7-8

Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside

Luxury lodge inside Umkumbe GR (Sabi Sands, South Africa) – All Meals Included

All Meals Included

Umkumbe Safari Lodge RiversideUmkumbe Safari Lodge RiversideUmkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside
Kambaku Safari Lodge

Day 9-11

Kambaku Safari Lodge

Luxury lodge inside Timbavati NR (Greater Kruger, South Africa) – All Meals Included

All Meals Included

Kambaku Safari LodgeKambaku Safari LodgeKambaku Safari Lodge

Day 12

End of tour

No accommodation

(No accommodation)

Breakfast Included

Day By Day

Tour step

Arrival

A transfer from the airport can be arranged for an extra cost. Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.

Fly to Victoria Falls for 3 nights

Day 1

Fly to Victoria Falls for 3 nights

Fly from Johannesburg to Victoria Falls and share a transfer into town. Arrive at Insika Lodge, where traditional charm meets modern comfort at this new property. Set in a lush, manicured garden, the rooms are thoughtfully designed and comfortable. The restaurant serves great meals, and the pool area is welcoming. Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Zambezi and then spend the next two days at leisure, exploring the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls or nearby attractions. Victoria Falls, known locally as "The Smoke that Thunders," is one of the world's most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Spanning the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, it plunges over 100 metres into the Zambezi Gorge, creating a mist seen from miles away. Visitors can experience the Falls up close on scenic trails, by helicopter, or on a Zambezi River sunset cruise. Rich in wildlife, the surrounding area also offers thrilling encounters with elephants, hippos, and crocodiles, making it a must-see African icon. Luxury lodge located at Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included

Destination: Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) Stay: Insika Lodge Luxury lodge located at Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Visit Victoria Falls & other sights

Day 2

Visit Victoria Falls & other sights

While in Victoria Falls, there are plenty of exciting optional activities to enhance your stay. A full-day trip to Chobe National Park in neighbouring Botswana is a popular choice, offering exceptional game viewing by both boat and vehicle, with the chance to see elephants, hippos, lions, and more. You might also consider a scenic helicopter flight over the falls for a breathtaking aerial perspective, or a guided tour of a local village to gain insight into the region’s rich culture and daily life. For those seeking a bit more adrenaline, white-water rafting or a canopy tour through the Batoka Gorge are thrilling ways to experience the natural beauty of the area. Luxury lodge located at Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included

Destination: Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) Stay: Insika Lodge Luxury lodge located at Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Fly to Cape Town for 3 nights

Day 4

Fly to Cape Town for 3 nights

Fly from Victoria Falls to Cape Town, landing in the late afternoon. Transfer to the Atlantic Seaboard and spend 3 nights in a Classic room at The Winchester Hotel, a beautifully restored Cape Dutch-style landmark on Cape Town’s Sea Point Promenade. This hotel offers a blend of historic charm and modern luxury. Indulge in contemporary dining at Shoreditch Restaurant, where dishes are inspired by open-flame cooking, or enjoy cocktails at Harvey’s Bar with its ocean-facing terrace. The hotel's Italian-style courtyard, adorned with bougainvillea, provides a tranquil setting for relaxation. For wellness, the Ginkgo Health and Wellness Spa offers a range of treatments, and there's a sparkling outdoor pool with sun loungers for leisurely afternoons. Located just 10 minutes from the V&A Waterfront and Cape Town's vibrant city centre, The Winchester Hotel combines timeless elegance with modern comforts, making it an ideal base for exploring the city's attractions. Luxury hotel in Cape Town (City, South Africa) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included

Destination: Cape Town (City, South Africa) Stay: The Winchester Hotel Luxury hotel in Cape Town (City, South Africa) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Full Day Cape Peninsula Tour

Day 5

Full Day Cape Peninsula Tour

Today, you’ll join a small, English-speaking group for a full-day tour along the iconic Cape Peninsula, one of South Africa’s most scenic coastal routes. Starting in Cape Town, the tour travels to Hout Bay, a lively fishing harbour where you can browse local markets or take an optional boat trip to Seal Island. From there, drive along the spectacular Chapman's Peak Drive, with panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean. Continue into the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, where you’ll visit Cape Point’s historic lighthouse and take in sweeping views where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet. The tour also includes a stop at Boulders Beach, home to a beloved colony of African penguins, before passing through the historic naval town of Simon’s Town. On the way back to Cape Town, enjoy the charm of seaside villages like Kalk Bay and Muizenberg, known for their quirky shops, colourful beach huts, and relaxed coastal vibe. Luxury hotel in Cape Town (City, South Africa) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included

Destination: Cape Town (City, South Africa) Stay: The Winchester Hotel Luxury hotel in Cape Town (City, South Africa) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Explore cape Town at your leisure

Day 6

Explore cape Town at your leisure

Cape Town offers a wide range of optional activities & day tours to suit every interest. A visit to the top of Table Mountain, by cable car or on foot, rewards you with breathtaking views over the city & coastline. Wine lovers can enjoy a day trip to the Cape Winelands, exploring the historic towns of Stellenbosch &Franschhoek, where world-class wine estates offer tastings, fine dining, & beautiful mountain scenery. For a deeper cultural experience, consider a guided walking tour of the city or a visit to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. Art galleries, vibrant markets, & food tours reveal the city’s creative spirit, while nature enthusiasts can hike in the Table Mountain National Park, visit the spectacular Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, or explore the beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay. Whether you’re drawn to history, food, nature, or wine, Cape Town offers plenty of ways to tailor your stay to your interests. Ask us for guided tour options that suit you best. Luxury hotel in Cape Town (City, South Africa) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included

Destination: Cape Town (City, South Africa) Stay: The Winchester Hotel Luxury hotel in Cape Town (City, South Africa) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Fly to Sabi Sand in Kruger for 2 nights

Day 7

Fly to Sabi Sand in Kruger for 2 nights

After your time in Cape Town, you’ll take a flight to the Greater Kruger area, where you’ll spend two nights at Umkumbe Safari Lodge in a Superior Room. Located in the Sabi Sand Reserve, Umkumbe offers a comfortable and authentic safari experience, with spacious rooms overlooking the seasonal Sand River. Your stay includes twice-daily game drives led by experienced guides who will help you track wildlife through the bush. Between drives, you can relax by the pool, watch for animals from the main deck or enjoy a drink at the boma under the stars. The lodge strikes a wonderful balance between comfort & connection to the wild, giving you an immersive taste of safari life. The Sabi Sand Reserve is famous for exceptional Big Five sightings, especially leopards. Its unfenced border with Kruger allows wildlife to roam freely. With off-road driving and fewer vehicles, game drives offer close, thrilling encounters amid diverse landscapes and abundant birdlife. Luxury lodge inside Umkumbe GR (Sabi Sands, South Africa) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Destination: Sabi Sand Nature Reserve (Greater Kruger, South Africa) Stay: Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside Luxury lodge inside Umkumbe GR (Sabi Sands, South Africa) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Transfer to Timbavati Game Reserve for 3 nights

Day 9

Transfer to Timbavati Game Reserve for 3 nights

You will be transferred by road north to the vast Timbavati and spend 3 nights in the northern reaches at Kambaku Safari Lodge. Kambaku Safari Lodge is a gem of a camp, owner run and offers a relaxed yet luxurious safari experience. The lodge has 10 spacious en-suite suites, each with king-size beds, mosquito nets, air conditioning, and private decks overlooking the bush. The main lodge features a lounge, bar, dining area, and swimming pool, providing a comfortable base between game drives. Guests enjoy guided safaris in the Timbavati, with opportunities to spot the Big Five, and can relax with gourmet meals served in the open-air boma, immersing themselves in the sights and sounds of the African wilderness. Luxury lodge inside Timbavati NR (Greater Kruger, South Africa) All meals included All drinks (Premium wines & liquors might be excluded)

Destination: Timbavati Nature Reserve (Greater Kruger, South Africa) Stay: Kambaku Safari Lodge Luxury lodge inside Timbavati NR (Greater Kruger, South Africa) Meals: All meals included All drinks (Premium wines & liquors might be excluded)
Game Drives in Timbavati

Day 10

Game Drives in Timbavati

You will spend your days on twice daily game drives, in the early mornings and again in the late afternoon, conducted by professional and knowledgeable guide and tracker teams. The Timbavati region, part of the Greater Kruger National Park, is renowned for its rich biodiversity and exceptional wildlife sightings. The area is home to the Big Five - lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros - as well as rare species like the African wild dog and cheetah. Game drives in open 4x4 vehicles, led by experienced rangers and trackers, provide close encounters with wildlife in their natural habitat. Additionally, guided bush walks offer a deeper understanding of the ecosystem, focusing on smaller flora and fauna often overlooked during drives. Kambaku's commitment to conservation and community engagement enhances the authentic safari experience, making it a memorable destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike. Luxury lodge inside Timbavati NR (Greater Kruger, South Africa) All meals included All drinks (Premium wines & liquors might be excluded)

Destination: Timbavati Nature Reserve (Greater Kruger, South Africa) Stay: Kambaku Safari Lodge Luxury lodge inside Timbavati NR (Greater Kruger, South Africa) Meals: All meals included All drinks (Premium wines & liquors might be excluded)
Fly to Johannesburg for Onward Travel

Day 12

Fly to Johannesburg for Onward Travel

After your last morning's game drive and brunch, you will transfer back to Hoedspruit Airport for a flight to Johannesburg International Airport. You will arrive in the mid-afternoon, with enough time to connect on most international departing flights. Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included

Destination: Johannesburg Airport (Johannesburg, South Africa) Stay: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included

Tour step

End of tour

Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost. A transfer back to the airport can be arranged for an extra cost.

Included

Park fees (For non-residents)

All activities (Unless labeled as optional)

All accommodation (Unless listed as upgrade)

A professional driver/guide

All transportation (Unless labeled as optional)

All flights during the tour

All Taxes/VAT

Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)

Drinks (As specified in the day-by-day section)

Excluded

International flights (From/to home)

Roundtrip airport transfer

Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour

Tips (Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)

Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)

Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees

Some meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)

Getting There

This tour starts and ends in Johannesburg
This operator can select your international flights, but you'll have to book them yourself
Fly to/from O.R. Tambo Airport (JNB - Check price) in Johannesburg
A transfer from and back to the airport can be arranged for an extra cost
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour can be arranged for an extra cost
Explore and Travel Africa
Explore and Travel Africa logo

Offered by

Explore and Travel Africa

5.0 operator rating 82 reviews

I started Explore & Travel Africa five years ago, after spending over 15 years in the safari industry, and I still love what I do. We specialise in bespoke safaris across Southern and East Africa, and I've personally been to most of the places we recommend. We take the time to understand your needs and travelling style. We're a small, hands-on team and you'll always be dealing with someone who knows Africa well and genuinely cares how your trip turns out

Office In

South Africa

Size

1-5 employees (Founded in 2020)

Member Of

Southern Africa Tourism Services Association

Tour Types

Custom mid-range & luxury tours that can start every day

Destinations

Botswana, Kenya, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe

Traveler feedback

Reviews

5.00 average

Overall

5.0/5

Communication

5.0/5

Accuracy

5.0/5

Value

5.0/5

Safety clarity

5.0/5

Cultural value

5.0/5
Verified

A seamless experience!

Personable approach to finding the perfect South African safari with dedicated support along the way. We felt very reassured throughout the process and ultimately had an amazing trip!

Jack · United Kingdom

Verified

A truly memorable and wonderful holiday experience in every respect.

From the outset, Michelle Astbury from Explore and Travel Africa was enthusiastic, engaging and communicative. Every suggestion and aspiration from our group was carefully listened to and the resulting itinerary hand-crafted by Michelle was outstanding. Once on the ground, every aspect of the holiday went smoothly, with not a single hitch. I couldn't recommend Michelle and her company more highly.

Michael · Australia

Verified

Michelle is a really professional and knowledgeable operator who overdelivered on our expectations

We decided to use Michelle, as a local South African-based travel agent who had first-hand experience, rather than an Australian agent operating from a desk and screen, and we were not disappointed. In fact, Michelle far exceeded our expectations in every way. We gave her an outline of where we wanted to go and suggested that five-star experiences is what we wanted, without going over the top. Her communication was outstanding, including a couple of phone calls, and her suggestions and attention to detail, particularly with tour, driver, accommodation and meal options. The itinerary and tours that she planned was amazing: We arrived in Cape Town, from London and stayed at the beautiful Victoria and Albert hotel at the Waterfront - so convenient to everything. We did wine and Cape Peninsular tours, along with Robben Island and Table Mountain and we even squeezed in a rugby game. At Victoria Falls, we had superb accommodation at Ilala Lodge, where we could see the mist from the falls. A Zambezi River cruise, with dinner after. The helicopter ride over the falls and upstream and downstream was spectacular. A guided tour of both sides of the falls and a walk across the bridge was followed by lunch at The Lookout Cafe, downstream from the Falls and then to a the amazing Dusty Road Township Restaurant for dinner. Then a day tour to Chobe, including a boat cruise and game drive and a lunch at a local hotel. We then flew to Kruger and overnighted at Oliver's, a beautiful boutique hotel located on the White River Country Estate, where we wished we could have stayed longer to at play the renowned golf course. The two game lodges we stayed at were sensational with amazing accommodation, meals and, best of all, great guides - we saw not only the big Five of Lions, Elephants, Rhinos, Buffalos and Leopards but also Cheetahs and Wild Dogs to make the Super 7, plus Giraffes, Zebra, Impala, Hippos, Monkeys and amazing birdlife. At Inyati Game Lodge, in Sabi Sand, we had a beautiful chalet near the river, with monkeys and Impala wandering through, great food and twice daily game drives. Our day two post on Facebook: Walk to the Giraffes, a pair of Leopards (mating), Lions resting after a kill and more elephants - a cute baby that got startled when our guide started the engine and it gave out a trumpet and charged three metres at us as we slowly drove off. He looked quite proud of himself and will dine out on the story for years. After three nights, it was a three-hour drive to another of the private game parks in the Kruger, Thabamati Luxury Tented Camp in the private Timbavati Nature reserve, for three nights. Wow. This was Luxury personified, with only four rooms. Our "tent" was absolutely stunning, just metres from the dam. We arrived in time for tea, before the evening game drive, to be greeted by a herd of 25 elephants, of which many also come for tea at the dam every day, much to the annoyance of the resident Hippos and two Egyptian geese. Our, too short, tour ended with a flight to Johannesburg and then back to Sydney. Thanks, Michelle for a real "Bucket list" experience.

Table Mountain from our room at the Victoria and Albert
Penguins on the Cape Peninsular tour
Robben Island entrance gates
A welcoming seal at the waterfront

Ron and Sally · Australia

Verified

Cape Town - Victoria Falls - Botswana Safaris

We started out in Cape Town staying at the Victoria & Albert Hotel. Visited the local market on Saturday and then spent the next three days touring with a guide: (1) Table Mountain (2) Cape Peninsula; and (3) Winelands. Food, accommodations and service were excellent. Tours were interesting and guides were friendly and knowledgeable. Fly to Victoria Falls and lunch at the Lookout Cafe followed by a tour of the falls from the Zimbabwe side. Traveled by van to the Zambia side of the falls with a two-night stay at the Royal Livingston Hotel. Walked from hotel to see the falls. Wear sandals and shorts with rain gear and umbrella when visiting the falls. It's wet! Giraffes and zebras roam the hotel grounds, providing a glimpse of what is to come on safari. We traveled to Botswana and spent three nights in four separate safari camps. We started with Chobe Game Lodge on the Chobe River. Safari by boat and jeep twice a day. Lots of elephants, impala, baboons, giraffes. A nice transition into the safari daily routine and staying in the park cut down on drive time. Next stop, Wilderness Savuti, a tented camp in the Linyanti Concession followed by Little Vumbura and finished up with Wilderness Qorokwe. We were assigned a guide for each tented camp stay. Guides were knowledgeable about animals, plants, birds and the local community. Accommodations were nice and staff were polite, friendly and helpful. Food was good! Lots and lots of animals and birds. We were gone for three weeks but it went by fast! Explore & Travel Africa made this the easiest and best trip we have taken. The Travelkey app they use is great; no paper to carry around. And once you are in the safari camps, they take care of your schedule and daily needs, including laundry! Pack light.

Mary · United States

Practical answers

Tour FAQs

8 answers

Are rates charged per person?

Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.

Which currency is this tour priced in?

This tour is offered in South African Rand (ZAR).

Can children join this tour?

This tour accepts children who are 12 years and older.

Can this tour start on my preferred date?

If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.

Can the itinerary be customized?

You can request changes to this tour.

Where do travelers stay during this tour?

Insika Lodge - Luxury lodge at Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) – Breakfast Included. Meals: Breakfast Included

Where does this tour start and end?

This tour starts and ends in Johannesburg

Are airport transfers included?

A transfer from and back to the airport can be arranged for an extra cost

Operator policy

Terms and Conditions

Booking terms

Disclaimer

This tour is offered by Explore and Travel Africa, not SafariBookings.

This operator reserves the right to change rates advertised on SafariBookings.

If you request changes to this tour, the advertised rates will likely change.

Rates include a fixed budget for flights during this tour. If flights cost more, your quote will reflect this.

The exact order, contents and rates of this tour are subject to availability.

If an accommodation is fully booked, the operator will suggest a comparable alternative.

This tour is subject to the terms & conditions of Explore and Travel Africa.

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