Self-Drive Holiday “3-4*, Wildlife, Beach/ Relaxation, Active” Style

South Africa Drakensberg & North Coast

  All prices are per person sharing

Seasonal Prices:From: 01-12-2012 Until: 31-12-2013 Price: aprx. NAD11913

Routing:Johannesburg to Johannesburg

Highlights:Drakensberg Mountains, Ballito Bay, St. Lucia Wetlands, Hluhluwe Game Reserve

Details:Self-drive accommodated safari inclusive of zero excess 2x2 air-conditioned Toyota Corolla vehicle hire, accommodation in 3 star lodges, chalets or guest houses on the meal basis stated, route map & 24 hour support.

• [?]Day 1 to 3: Drakensberg
  

  Fly into Johannesburg International airport today and pick up your hire car to drive the four hours through to the Drakensberg Mountains.  This area is one of the most beautiful regions of South Africa with towering mountain scenery, sparkling crystal clear streams and awe inspiring hiking trails. You will stay at the Cavern Berg resort, situated in the Northern Drakensberg. Nestled in the foothills of the surrounding mountains, the resort is close to the starting point of many walks and hikes and overlooks indigenous forests.

  Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of this environment; maybe visit Giant's Castle where you can view ancient San bushmen rock paintings and picnic beside secluded streams.  

  Craft centres and tea shops are scattered throughout the area and additional optional activities include golfing, helicopter rides or mountain biking.  All meals included.

  Lodge: The Cavern

  Activities: Hiking & Walking Birding
• [?]Day 4 to 5: Ballito Bay
  

  Drive south from the cool highlands to the warm breezes of the Indian Ocean and Ballito Bay, 50km from Durban. This drive should take 3 hours. Ballito is a pretty town with clean, safe beaches, shops and restaurants and many other attractions in the surrounding area.

  You will stay at Vineyard on Ballito, this friendly establishment is inspired by the beauty and grandeur of the magnificent South African Vineyards and the country’s viticultural history.  Located a moments drive from the beach, Vineyard on Ballito is the perfect North Coast stay in the bustling town of Ballito.  Here you will find a range of services to add to the comfort of your stay.  Perhaps enjoy some day trips in the area, or just relax on the beach! Breakfast included.

  Lodge: Vineyard on Ballito

  Activities: Hiking & Walking Birding
• [?]Day 6 to 8: St. Lucia
  

  Take a scenic drive northwards along the beautiful coastal road, enjoy wonderful views across the Indian Ocean. Arrive in St. Lucia and stay for three nights at the Santa Lucia guest house, a small and friendly, Mediterranean style establishment set in lush gardens with a swimming pool. St. Lucia is a beautiful area, a World Heritage Site wetland of International importance and a breeding site for many species of bird as well as perfect habitat for many animals including buffalo, leopard, rhino, hippo and crocodile.

  There is plenty to see and do here, including day trips to Cape Vidal for stunning beaches, some whale watching and snorkeling, boat trips on the estuary and walks through the coastal dunes and surrounding inland plains. The seafood restaurants in St. Lucia are excellent!  Breakfast included.

  Lodge: Santa Lucia

  Activities: Hiking & Walking Boat Cruises Birding Game/ Nature driving
• [?]Day 9 to 10: Hluhluwe Game Reserve
  

  Take the interesting inland road through to the Hluhluwe Game Reserve, a lush and beautiful area which is home to many wildlife species including rhino, lion, leopard and elephant. You will stay at Bushlands Game Lodge, a luxurious lodge with wooden, elevated rooms connected by raised wooden walkways to the main dining area, bar, swimming pool and open air Boma.

  A watering hole on the property attracts species such as zebra, wildebeest, impala, nyala, giraffe and warthog. Optional game drives and day tours are available to enable you to explore this unique area.  Breakfast & dinner included.

  Lodge: Bushlands Game Lodge

  Activities: Game/ Nature driving Birding
• [?]Day 11: Johannesburg
  

  Your drive from Hluhluwe takes you north through Kwazulu - Natal and Mpumalanga to Johannesburg where you will have time to relax for one night before your onward flight. You will stay close to the airport at the Southern Sun OB Tambo Airport Hotel. This up-market establishment is conveniently located and offers excellent service. Breakfast included.

  Lodge: Southern Sun Johannesburg Airport

  Activities: Game/ Nature driving Birding
• [?]Day 12: Fly out of Johannesburg
  

  Today you will drop off your hire car at Johannesburg airport and connect with your onward flight.

  Lodge: Southern Sun Johannesburg Airport

  Activities: