Johannesburg to Victoria Falls: A 9-Day Ultimate Southern Africa Circuit

South Africa/ Zimbabwe

Initial deposit starts at $1200

May 16-24, 2026

20 spots available

About the adventure

About the Adventure

This journey captures the essence of Southern Africa to Zimbabwe—from vibrant city life to untamed wilderness and awe-inspiring natural wonders.


Start in Johannesburg, a city pulsing with energy, history, and resilience. From there, we head into the dramatic landscapes of Blyde River Canyon and the wild heart of Kruger National Park, where thrilling safari drives bring you face-to-face with Africa’s iconic wildlife. We’ll end with a grand finale at Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.


This trip blends adventure with cultural depth, scenic beauty with soulful connection. Whether it’s your first time in Africa or a return to a place you love, prepare to be moved, inspired, and completely in awe.

Included

  • Airport pick up & drop off

  • 8-nights includes hand-picked 3-4-star hotels and lodges

  • Breakfast each day with a handful of exciting cultural dinners + a few safari lunches/ Veg and Vegan friendly options available

  • Airport transfers

  • Transportation between destinations including 2 domestic flights

  • Local educated and english speaking cultural guide

  • Full day private city tour of Johannesburg

  • Soweto private tour, one of the largest townships in the world

  • A scenic tour along the Panorama Route, featuring the breathtaking Blyde River Canyon—the third largest canyon in the world—along with iconic stops at God’s Window and Lisbon Falls

  • 2 full days of private safaris through Kruger National Park—one of Africa’s largest and most renowned game reserves—home to the Big Five and an incredible diversity of wildlife. (Sunrise and sunset drives).

  • Sunset river cruise with dinner on the Zambezi River with opportunities to see animals

  • Sunrise Bamba Tram Tour

  • Private tour of Victoria falls- one of the natural wonders of the world

  • All entrance fees to national parks

  • Your dedicated trip operator (that’s me!) will handle all your pre-trip worries, assist with flight bookings, guide you in

Not included

  • International flights

  • Trip insurance- (highly recommended)

  • Any Table Drinks, Tea/ Coffee, Water, Chocolates, Beer etc.

  • Any Meals that are not included in the itinerary

  • Personal Insurance & emergency rescue charges if necessary

  • Personal Expenses, Medical and evacuation Cost, Travel Insurance and Laundry

  • Cost raised by re-routing, cancellation, political disturbance which are not under our control etc

  • Tips to the Guides, Porters and the drivers [Tips are expected]

Outlined Itinerary Details for 10 days

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

About the adventure

DAY # 1 Saturday May 16

Arrival and Group Meeting in Johannesburg

You will arrive arrive in Johannesburg and be transported to your hotel.

Activities:

☯ Relax, hydrate, grab a bite to eat

☯ Group meeting at hotel

☯ Walk around cute hotel neighborhood/shop

Accommodation: The Catalyst Hotel

About the adventure

DAY # 2 Sunday May 17

Johannesburg City Exploration Day (B, D)

Today you will get to experience a full day exploring the City of Gold, learning about its history and indulging in its rich culture.

Activities:

☯ Bus tour of the city with stops at the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill

☯ Private tour of the Soweto Township

☯ Exciting cultural dinner with a live performance and a variety of local foods

Accommodation: The Catalyst Hotel

Drive time: Around 25 minutes from the airport to the hotel

About the adventure

DAY # 3 Monday May 18

Panorama Driving Route (B, D)

After breakfast today, you'll set off on one of South Africa’s most scenic drives—the famous Panorama Route—as you make your way to the safari lodge

Activities:

☯ Journey through Blyde River Canyon – the 3rd largest canyon in the world

☯ Scenic stops at Three Rondavels, God’s Window, and Lisbon Falls

☯ Have lunch with a view along the way

Accommodation: Umbhaba Lodge

Drive time: Around 4-5 hours with various stops along the way

About the adventure

DAY # 4 Tuesday May 19

Full Day Kruger National Park Private Safari (B, D)

Today you will set out in search of the Big Five and experience the park’s rich and diverse wildlife. Your naturalist will explain all about the animals to you.

Activities:

☯ Sunrise and afternoon game drives with lunch in the park

☯ Evening to relax and enjoy the pool and lodge

Drive time: About 15 minute drive to the safari park

Accommodation: Umbhaba Lodge

Drive time: 15 min drive from the lodge to the national park

About the adventure

DAY # 5 Wednesday May 20

Full Day Kruger National Park Private Safari (B, L, D)

Today you will experience another adventure filled safari day with another opportunity to see the animals.

Activities:

☯ Sunrise and afternoon game drives with lunch in the park

☯ Evening to relax and enjoy the pool and lodge

Accommodation: Umbhaba Lodge

About the adventure

DAY # 6 Thursday May 21

Transport to the Victoria Falls Wonderland (B, D)

Today, you’ll fly to the Victoria Falls region of Zimbabwe—a breathtaking natural wonderland known for its thundering falls, incredible biodiversity, and rich cultural heritage.

Activities:

☯ Morning flight (around 1:45 minutes)

☯ Evening sunset boat cruise along the Zambezi River with dinner


Accommodation: Waterfalls lodge

Drive time: Around 1 hour to the airport on each end

About the adventure

DAY # 7 Friday May 22

Full Day Victoria Falls Exploration (B, D)

Today, you will enjoy a full day of included fun activities around the incredible natural wonder.

Activities:

☯ Sunrise Bamba Tour (90 minutes) scenic train ride through the Zambezi National Park.

☯ Private group tour of the falls

☯ Cultural dinner at Dusty Roads

Accommodation: Waterfalls lodge

About the adventure

DAY # 8 Saturday May 23

Free Day in Victoria Falls Area (B, D)

You’ll have a full free day to enjoy a range of adventures and excursions of your choice—we’ll help you plan the perfect experience. Whether you’re seeking thrills or looking to simply relax and soak up the beauty of the resort, the day is yours to enjoy.

☯ Engage in optional excursions such as bridge swinging, bungee jumping, white-water rafting, a helicopter flight over the falls, a Livingstone Island tour, a Devil’s Pool swim, or even a full-day safari trip to Botswana!

☯ Walk around the cute downtown area and grab good meal.

Accommodation: Waterfalls lodge

About the adventure

DAY # 9 Sunday May 23

Transport Home (B)

Today you will embark on an included domestic flight back to Johansburg to catch your flights back to the United States.

Let’s connect and travel

Immerse yourself in local culture, enjoy daring adventures, and form long-lasting friendships with fellow travelers from around the globe.

Kookswildride

Sign up to get notified!

2025 Kook’s Wild Ride. All rights reserved.

Powered by Raging Agency