South Africa | From East to West in 14 Days Part 1

Hello Beautiful Souls,

Embarking on this incredible journey across South Africa has been nothing short of magical. Thanks to Djoser, the fellow travellers in our group and my incredible mum, we all shared some memories to treasure forever. The first part of our journey started from the bustling streets of Johannesburg to the tranquil landscapes of Kruger National Park, each moment has been filled with wonders and adventure.

One thing that helped me stay connected during this trip was using an eSIM from Airalo. I purchased it in advance, and it was ready to use as soon as I landed. It definitely worked flawlessly, ensuring I could share my experiences and stay connected with ease.

If you’re planning a trip to South Africa and have 14 days to explore, buckle up for an unforgettable adventure! Here’s a breakdown of the must-see places for the first part of your journey. Thank me later!

During our journey through South Africa, we discovered the invaluable benefits of touring with our tour guide. Not only did it provide us with insider knowledge and hidden gems, but it also offered a heightened sense of security throughout our travels. Please keep this in mind when you book a trip to this glorious country.

Day 1 & 2: Johannesburg and Pretoria

Our journey began late at night at the airport in Johannesburg, where the energy of the city was noticeable. After a restful night, we explored the iconic Union Buildings and Church Square in Pretoria, immersing ourselves in the rich history and culture of South Africa. The vibrant atmosphere and architectural marvels left us in awe, setting the stage for the adventures to come. If you have some time left, try to visit the township of Soweto and the museum of Hector Pieterson. Also, the Voortrekker Monument is a stunning architecture in honour of the people who left the Cape Colony between 1835 and 1854. There is a lot of Dutch history in this country.

Day 3: Mpumalanga’s Panorama Route

Venturing out on Mpumalanga’s Panorama Route was a breathtaking experience. We marvelled at the towering rock formations of the Three Rondavels and the natural wonders of Bourke’s Luck Potholes. Unfortunately, the clouds wouldn’t allow us to capture, the beauty of God’s Window, which would offer us panoramic views of the lush landscape below. Our day ended at the captivating Shalati Safari Camp, where the promise of safari adventures awaited. I recommend this Lodge for the ultimate camp feeling. This is the place where I fell in love with the South African cuisine.

Day 4: Safari Game Drives

Day 4 brought us closer to nature as we ventured on safari game drives in Manyeleti Game Reserve. The thrill of spotting a majestic cheetah and towering giraffes was unparalleled. We witnessed the beauty of the African wilderness, from playful hippos to graceful zebras and elephants, each moment etching itself into our memories. It felt like we were in a National Geographic documentary.

Day 5: Full Day in Kruger Park

A full day in Kruger Park was a dream come true. From sunrise to almost sunset, we traversed the vast landscape, captivated by the park’s magnificent wildlife. While lions remained elusive [unfortunately], the sightings of elephants, giraffes, a leopard and baboons left us in awe of the natural world. We ended the day in this beautiful luxurious lodge, Muluwa Lodge, where we saw the most impressive sunrise from our bed.

Day 6 & 7: Travel to Port Elizabeth and Addo Elephant National Park

Our journey continued as we travelled to Port Elizabeth by flight from Johannesburg and explored Addo Elephant National Park. Despite the rain, we were treated to an abundance of elephant sightings and unforgettable moments in the wild. The serenity of the park, the immense greenery and the beauty of its inhabitants left a lasting impression on my heart.