Experience South Africa!
We will embark on a ten-day South African Wildlife Adventure of a lifetime with our families. On this adventure, we will spend our first day making our way toward Kruger National Park enjoying a welcome dinner together, before embarking on two magical nights camping in the famous Kruger National Park and four nights participating on a mini ‘Family Safari Ranger’ adventure.
Picture it, the daytimes will be spent in open safari vehicles in search of lions, elephants, giraffes, leopards, cheetahs, and wild dogs on the biggest adventure of our lives. Seeing the “Big Five” in the wild is one of the most memorable things one can ever experience, imagine sharing that with your children.
In the evenings, smores around the campfire under the African stars listening to the sounds of the lions roar and monkeys chatter – a totally magical experience.
After bidding farewell to the Kruger, we head off on our next adventure – Safari Ranger training with some of the best rangers in South Africa. We will head to Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate & Pridelands Game Reserve. This is real Lion King stuff – how excited are the children going to be!
We will then spend 4 nights participating on a mini ‘Family Safari Ranger’ adventure. This has been specifically designed for our group as a wildlife conservation experience. Learning to be a safari ranger is designed to immerse people of all ages into the African wilderness. We will be spending the day on foot and in open safari vehicles tracking animals, and learning about African bush life.
The African continent is the only place in the world where big game still roams freely in great numbers. By providing an inspirational and adventurous experience for the hearts and minds of both young and old, this will foster an interest and nurture opportunity and curiosity that will change the world.
Our final two days will be spent at Tshukudu Bush Camp, nestled within the pristine Tshukudu Game Reserve, renowned for being home to the iconic Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo.
One of the most unique aspects of Tshukudu is its dedication to wildlife rehabilitation. You may have the extraordinary chance to interact with rehabilitated animals, such as orphaned cheetahs as they prepare for reintroduction into the wild—a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.
This immersive experience blends adventure, conservation, and culture into an exceptional ten-day journey you’ll never forget!
Trip Highlights
Kruger National Park
Spend 2 unforgettable nights in the legendary Kruger National Park, surrounded by incredible wildlife and pristine landscapes.
EcoTraining
Spend 4 days working exclusively with Eco Training – the best field guides, learning how to be mini rangers, identifying animal footprints and poo!
Tshukudu Game Reserve
Spend 2 nights in the private Tshukudu game reserve which is home to the ‘Big 5’ and is known for its wildlife rehabilitation work which could give you the opportunity to interact closely with rehabilitated animals like orphaned cheetahs
Wild Animal Tracking
Track wild African animals through the bush on foot and in safari vehicles in search of the ‘Big 5’
Sleep Under the African Sky
Camp under a starlit sky and fall asleep under the stars to the sounds of roaring lions, snorting hippos and the soft croaking of frogs in the river
Elephant Conservation
Engage in a meaningful elephant conservation experience with the HERD Charity Trust, gaining insights into protecting these majestic creatures.
Best National Parks
Camping in the heart of the best national parks, meeting some of Africa’s top conservationists and having access to commercially unavailable places.
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrive in Johannesburg
Meet the Wild Hearted Adventures team and embark on our African adventure
Upon arrival at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, you will board a connecting flight to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP). There, our team will be waiting to transport you to a nearby guesthouse where you will have the opportunity to meet us and prepare for an exceptional adventure.
In the evening, we will host a welcome dinner, providing an opportunity to meet the other families and share detailed information about the exciting days ahead.
Prepare yourself for an unforgettable experience!
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals Included: Dinner
Day 2 - Kruger National Park
Enter Kruger National Park and take our first game drive in search of the ‘Big 5’
Following breakfast, we will meet our safari guides and board open safari vehicles for a journey to Crocodile Bridge Gate at Kruger National Park. Renowned for its exceptional opportunities to view the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo—Kruger National Park also offers an unparalleled diversity of wildlife, surpassing any other African national park.
Our morning game drive will take us through the southeastern plains toward Lower Sabie, which will serve as our base camp for the duration of the tour. Lower Sabie is acclaimed as the premier rest camp within Kruger National Park.
Upon arrival at the camp, you will be allocated your tent, with time to relax, settle in, and explore the surroundings. Accommodations are provided in comfortable dome canvas safari tents, each designed for two guests. For larger families, adjacent tents are situated less than one meter apart, ensuring a shared yet intimate experience. All necessary amenities are provided, including clean flush toilets and hot showers located a short walk away. The camp is fully fenced, offering a secure environment for exploring various viewpoints and attractions.
Lunch will be served at the camp before we embark on an afternoon game drive.
As night falls, we will enjoy a unique experience, falling asleep under the stars accompanied by the sounds of roaring lions, snorting hippos, and the gentle croaking of frogs by the river—an unforgettable experience.
Accommodation: Lower Sabie Camp
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 3 - Kruger National Park: Game Drive
Our day will commence early with a selection of tea, coffee, and biscuits in camp, followed by an invigorating early morning safari.
Guided by our expert Kruger guides, who bring both deep passion and extensive knowledge to their role, we will traverse the park’s tracks. They will offer insightful interpretations of the natural world around us, enriching our safari experience.
Winter in Kruger is particularly favored by bush enthusiasts, as the sparse vegetation and limited water sources draw animals closer to watering holes, providing us with exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities.
The park is home to approximately 147 mammal species, 500 bird species, and 114 reptile species, ensuring a diverse and immersive wildlife experience.
In addition to the iconic Big Five, we will also have the chance to encounter cheetah, hyena, wild dog, giraffe, large herds of zebra and wildebeest, and a remarkable array of antelope.
We will return to camp in the late afternoon, where you can take a refreshing dip in the sparkling camp pool or explore the picturesque river frontage, depending on the weather.
Accommodation: Lower Sabie Camp
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 4 - Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate
Head to Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate, our new accommodation and enjoy a game drive followed by sundowners
Following breakfast, we will bid farewell to the team and embark on a scenic drive (4-5 hours) through Kruger National Park, making a stop at Satara Camp for lunch.
Upon exiting the park, we will transfer to the picturesque Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate, where we will enjoy the next four nights. This estate, part of the conserved Lowveld Bushveld, is home to the more tranquil aspects of African wildlife, including impalas, giraffes, kudus, and warthogs.
Once we have arrived, we will receive a comprehensive briefing, orientation of the lodge, and an introduction to the dedicated staff.
In the afternoon, we will set out on a game drive within the Pridelands Conservancy aboard an Open Safari Vehicle, culminating in a sundowner experience under the expansive African night sky.
Dinner at the lodge will feature a selection of South Africa’s finest cuisine, promising a delightful and indulgent dining experience.
Accommodation: Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 5 - Tracks & Tracking
Introduction to tracks and tracking – Let’s learn about footprints and poo!
Today, after breakfast, we will embark on an exhilarating bush trail adventure, where you will master the art of navigation and orientation amidst the wild. Our journey will lead us to a scenic picnic spot for lunch.
Prepare to delve into the fascinating world of tracking as we learn to read the subtle signs of the bush, including animal tracks and their “signs”—a fun and engaging experience for everyone, especially the children who will have the opportunity to identify animal spoor!
This interactive introduction to animal tracking will challenge you to locate your pre-transported lunch at a designated halfway point. Each group will be accompanied by a skilled guide to ensure a rewarding and educational experience.
After enjoying our picnic, we will set out on an exciting game drive, applying our newly acquired tracking skills to seek out wildlife. Let’s put your newfound expertise to the test and see if you can identify the tracks and signs you encountered earlier—who’s spoor belongs to whom?
Accommodation: Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6 - Bush survival skills, game drives and an evening with the stars
Bush survival skills, fire building, game drives and an evening with the stars
Our morning will offer an exciting choice between a thrilling game drive or an immersive bush walk.
We will delve into essential bush survival skills, exploring how to utilize natural resources and adapt to the environment around us.
During lunch, we will engage in an interactive discussion led by a ranger, focusing on wildlife conservation. This session will also include an enlightening exploration of the African night sky, covering prominent features such as the Southern Cross, the Milky Way, and common constellations—setting the stage for an unforgettable evening.
In the afternoon, our game drive or bush walk will incorporate practical survival skills, including techniques for locating and sourcing water and preparing a fire.
As night falls, we will enjoy a traditional Bushveld dinner accompanied by captivating storytelling. The evening will extend into a stargazing experience, where we will revisit the night sky to further explore the Southern Cross, the Milky Way, and other celestial wonders.
Accommodation: Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7 - Bush walk & afternoon safari in the Pridelands
Connect with Africa on a bush walk before heading out on an afternoon safari in the Pridelands
In the morning, get ready for an exhilarating bush walk in the breathtaking Hoedspruit Wildlife Reserve! This adventure will not only introduce you to essential walking safety but also sharpen your focus on the wonders of the surrounding wilderness. As a plains game reserve, Hoedspruit is free of predators, ensuring a safe and unforgettable exploration.
Imagine walking through the African bush, where every step reveals hidden treasures—vibrant plants, the call of elusive birds, and the fascinating world of insects. You’ll traverse some of the continent’s most stunning landscapes, immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of the natural world.
This bush walk is a one-of-a-kind chance to truly connect with Africa. As you trek along paths once walked by the continent’s wildlife, the scent of wild grasses fills the air, and your senses come alive—feel Africa in every fiber of your being.
After lunch, we’ll set out on an exciting game drive in search of the legendary Big Five and other captivating creatures like wild dogs, hippos, leopard, and countless bird species. Every moment in the wild promises magic—you never know what thrilling encounter lies just around the corner!
Accommodation: Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 8 - Jabulani Elephant Sanctuary & Reptile Park
Today We will be taking in two magical experiences – Sunrise at Jabulani Elephant Sanctuary and a visit to the reptile park before moving to a new reserve.
Get ready to be inspired, enlightened, educated and enthused by this memorable opportunity to meet and learn more about the orphanages of rescued elephants, with proceeds going to the HERD Elephant Trust. We will learn about their behaviour, unique character traits, incredible stories and what it entails to take care of them. The experience takes place while the elephants are in their natural environment – it’s a very special experience the whole family will love.
Following breakfast, we will embark on the final part of our South African adventure and make our way to Tshukudu Game Reserve, stopping en route for an interactive session at the reptile centre before a delicious lunch out.
Upon arrival at Tshukudu Bush Camp, we will get comfortable in our new accommodation before heading out on a game drive around our new reserve and sundowners.
Our evening will finish around the campfire.
Accommodation: Tshukudu Bush Camp
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 9 - Cheetah Walk
One of the most unique aspects of Tshukudu is its dedication to wildlife rehabilitation. We hope to have the extraordinary chance to interact with rehabilitated animals, such as orphaned cheetahs and walk out into the bush with them, as they prepare for reintroduction into the wild—a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience!
During the day enjoy time in the hide watching wildlife around the waterhole, taking a swim in the pool and joining in with a game of volleyball.
As our final full day starts to come to an end we will head out on a game drive and track the lion and the cheetah with telemetry – a tracking device.
As the sun sets, unwind in the tranquil atmosphere of the camp; we will gather around the campfire and the night will be brought to life with a traditional African drumming session, and you can savour the warmth of the fire while toasting marshmallows under a sky filled with stars!
This immersive experience blends adventure, conservation, and culture into an exceptional two-day journey you’ll never forget.
In the evening, we’ll have a farewell dinner and a chance to reflect on our incredible journey together.
Accommodation: Tshukudu Bush Camp
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 10 - Departure
It’s time to bid farewell to the African bush and new found friends.
Today we say goodbye to our newfound friends and we head home, or onwards to your next destination.
After breakfast, we’ll pack up and head back to Hoedspruit Airport for your flight home. We hope you’ve had an unforgettable adventure with us and that you’ll take home memories that will last a lifetime.
The trip will finish at Hoedspruit Airport where you can fly back to Johannesburg (flights not included).
Meals included: Breakfast
** The itinerary is subject to changes. Whilst we do our best to keep to our planned itinerary, on occasions things do have to be altered.
Our Accommodations
Lower Sabie Camp
Guests are accommodated in comfortable dome, canvas safari tents which take 2-3 people each. For larger families, you will be in tents less than 1m apart – it’s an amazing experience.
Everything needed will be provided. Clean flush toilets and hot showers are a short walk away. The camp is fully fenced and it is safe to walk around and explore the different viewpoints and attractions.
Visitors cannot but feel soothed by the view over the perennial Sabie River and the Lebombo Mountains beyond, which form the natural boundary and act as a highlight of the Kruger National Park.
Expansive green lawns are shaded from the remorseless African sun by majestic Sycamore Fig Trees, providing the setting for a breathtaking panorama.
Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate
Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate is a beautiful, conserved part of the Lowveld bushveld and the privileged few that own and live here on this exclusive estate enjoy the company of the gentler side of African fauna, impalas and kudu grazing around your house and warthogs snuffling for roots and tubers.
Many families have been lured from their hectic urban lifestyles to the more tranquil, and beautiful Hoedspruit.
Tshukudu Bush Camp
Tshkudu Bush Camp offers seven thatched cottages with a unique blend of rustic charm and modern comfort.
Take a moment to unwind by their serene pool or indulge in some wildlife watching from our viewing platform, where animals gather to quench their thirst at the waterhole.
For our younger guests, a delightful playground awaits their energy and laughter.
Who is this trip for?
All families and adventurers 4 years and above are welcome on this South African trip.
If you and your family have just a little piece of wild in you, are curious, love the outdoors and are ready to immerse yourselves in the African wilderness, then take that leap – remember, we are here with you!
I can promise you, from the moment you step onto African soil, you will fall in love. That’s really how Wild Hearted began, 20 years ago when I made that very first visit to Africa, and now I just can’t stop.
That is why I wanted to take other families there too. To share the magic of Africa with you. To see you and your family’s faces light up as you become immersed in African wildlife for the first time!
FAQ
What's Included
- Airport pick up from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) no later than 2pm
- 9 nights accommodation
- All meals as per itinerary
- Entrance and conservation fees to the reserves
- Transfers throughout the tour as outlined in the itinerary
- Four days Ranger Training
- Elephant conservation experience with the HERD Charity Trust
- Pre-Departure Support
- 24hr On-Site Support
- Airport Drop Off at Hoedspruit Airport
What's not included
- Airfares – International and Domestic
- Any extra trips, visits or activities NOT outlined in the itinerary
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- Any extra food, snacks or drinks
- Visas
- All items of a personal nature
- Gratuities and Tipping
- Travel Insurance
Your hosts
Anna Miller
Anna is the visionary founder of Wild Hearted Adventures, whose warmth, inspiration, and charm set the perfect tone for our retreat. Her boundless energy and infectious enthusiasm will inspire you to embrace every moment of this experience.
She is also a travel writer and the creative mind behind the popular family travel blog, Twins and Travels.
At times, unforeseen circumstances may require a change in your assigned host. However, rest assured that you’ll always be in the capable hands of a passionate, knowledgeable, and exceptional host from the Wild Hearted team, ensuring an unforgettable experience.