Your tailor-made holiday will be as unique as you are. These itineraries are just a starting point, a bit of inspiration to show what’s possible. Your own trip all starts with a conversation with one of our South Africa experts, who’ll take the time to understand what matters most to you and design the perfect holiday to match.
KwaZulu-Natal is often overlooked when planning a South Africa holiday, but with stunning scenery, fascinating history and wonderful safari options, it's a great part of the country to spend two weeks exploring. Plus, with the added bonus of dry, sunny winters, it's a great destination all year round. Flying into Durban, you'll drive west to base yourself near the famous Sani Pass, before venturing up the perilous mountain crossing to Lesotho (and the highest pub in Africa!). From here, you'll head further into the Drakensberg Mountains with its fabulous walks, bird watching and fishing, before continuing to the Battlefields for an insight into the rich history and culture of the region. Finally, end your holiday with a few days on safari - the ultimate in excitement, as you head out each day into the bush to see what Big Five encounters await.
Here's a summary of what you might get up to day-to-day on this South Africa holiday. As always, this is just an idea. Every single day of your trip will be tailored to suit you.
Your South Africa holiday begins with an overnight flight to Durban, flying either via Johannesburg or direct with British Airways. Get ready for a journey through towering mountains, historic battlefields, and wildlife-rich reserves, as you set off on an adventure through the best of KwaZulu-Natal’s landscapes and history.
When you arrive in Durban, you’ll collect your hire car and drive west into the foothills of the Drakensberg Mountains, reaching the small town of Himeville for a two-night stay. Himeville is the gateway to Lesotho and the Sani Pass, surrounded by rolling green landscapes and crisp mountain air. Settle in, unwind from the long journey and enjoy a quiet evening in the countryside, ready for your adventure to kick up a notch tomorrow.
Today, you’ll climb high into the mountains on a guided tour up the legendary Sani Pass – one of the most breathtaking (and treacherous!) roads in Southern Africa. This rugged track winds its way up into the country of Lesotho, reaching an altitude of 2,865m. As you cross the border (don’t forget your passport!), you’ll visit a traditional Basotho village, learning about their way of life, before stopping for lunch at Africa’s highest pub. Be sure to pack warm clothes today, as temperatures can drop quite dramatically at the top.
Leaving Himeville behind, you’ll drive deeper into the Drakensberg Mountains today, where you’ll spend the next three nights surrounded by towering peaks, lush valleys, and endless hiking trails. The Drakensberg Mountains are South Africa’s most dramatic mountain range – a worthy UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers so many opportunities for outdoor adventures, picture-perfect scenery and the chance to get away from it all.
The Drakensberg Mountains are home to so many different adventures. Choose from gentle riverside walks or challenging mountain trails, keeping an eye out for native birdlife, baboons and waterfalls along the way. Other activities include horse riding, mountain biking, and trout fishing.
For a more relaxed afternoon, you could attend a performance at the Drakensberg Boys’ Choir School, where the internationally renowned choir delivers a mix of classical and African-inspired performances. We’d really recommend this, it’s such a moving experience!
Leaving the peaks of the Drakensberg behind today, you’ll drive east into KwaZulu-Natal’s Battlefields region for the next three nights. This landscape of rolling hills and open plains was the setting for some of South Africa’s most significant battles, particularly between the British, Zulu, and Boer forces. The lodges in this region are steeped in history, offering an immersive experience where storytelling brings the past to life.
Over the next two days, you’ll delve into the fascinating history of the Anglo-Zulu War, with guided battlefield tours of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift. Stand where thousands of Zulu warriors clashed with British soldiers in 1879, hearing gripping accounts of bravery, strategy, and survival from the guides who bring it all to life.
Swapping history for wildlife, today you’ll drive to one of KwaZulu-Natal’s fantastic game reserves, where you’ll spend the next three nights on safari. This region is home to a variety of malaria-free private reserves, making them perfect for families, and each offering incredible wildlife experiences. Whether you’re staying in a luxury lodge, a tented camp, or a family-friendly safari retreat, the thrill of the bush is guaranteed.
Your days on safari in KwaZulu-Natal will be spent tracking some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife. Early morning and late afternoon game drives take you deep into the bush, where expert rangers will help you spot elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo. Between drives, you’ll have time to relax at your lodge, soak in the scenery, or join a guided bush walk, where you’ll learn about the smaller creatures of the wild, from colourful birds to fascinating insects and plants.
After a final morning game drive, you’ll leave the wild behind and drive back to Durban for your flight home via Johannesburg (direct flights are possible with British Airways, so chat to us if you’d prefer this!)
We offer tailor-made holidays to suit a wide range of tastes. Our experts Catherine, Kirsty and Lisa are dedicated to all things South Africa and are here to help you plan your perfect trip.
Catherine fell for Africa in 2000 and has been back countless times ever since. With South Africa being one of her favourite spots, she’s your go-to for everything from self-drives to safaris, hikes and vineyards.
With family living just outside Kruger National Park, Kirsty’s been travelling to South Africa for more than 20 years. From solo trips to family adventures, she knows the country inside out – and always finds new reasons to return.
Our resident South African, our Lisa really has spent a lifetime exploring the country. Especially fond of Kruger, coastal drives and any excuse for a well-earned sundowner with a view, she brings real passion and knowledge to every holiday she plans.
Speak to one of our travel specialists today.
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