Meet-and-greet at OR Tambo with complimentary transfer to Afrique Boutique Hotel; check-in and settle into rooms (standard check-in around 2:00pm). Useful for recovering from travel before the welcome programme.
A brief orientation drive/walk around Rosebank (shops, galleries) if time allows — a gentle introduction to Johannesburg before the evening dinner. Public areas generally open from c. 9:00am–6:00pm.
Included group welcome dinner at Afrique Boutique Hotel — a chance to meet your guide and fellow travellers and go over the journey. Hotel dining usually runs evenings from 6:30pm–9:30pm.
Try the hotel’s light breakfast or nearby café for a quick start; most cafés open by 7:30am–8:00am. Note: package indicates breakfast not included on day 1.
If you prefer to dine out instead of the hotel welcome dinner, Marble (open ~12:00pm–11:00pm) offers excellent local meats and views; booking recommended.
Early breakfast at Afrique Boutique Hotel before transfer to the airport; package shows breakfast now included. Hotel breakfast service usually between 6:00am–9:30am.
Complimentary transfer to OR Tambo and scheduled domestic flight to Hoedspruit Eastgate (flight times vary by schedule); allow 90–120 minutes for transfer/check-in and c. 1hr direct flight time.
Afternoon/evening game drive in an open 4x4 with your guide; ideal for seeing predators and active wildlife as the heat drops. Drives commonly depart c. 3:30pm–4:00pm and return around 6:30pm.
Guided walking safaris allow closer-up, guided experiences on foot (safety permitting). Typically scheduled late afternoon; book with lodge — approximate cost shown.
Full-day guided safari in and around Kruger National Park with picnic lunch; best for sustained game-viewing including elephants, buffalo, lions and leopard. Expect departure c. 6:00am and return by c. 4:00pm.
Drive to God’s Window viewpoint on the Drakensberg escarpment for panoramic views over the Lowveld; viewpoint is open generally sunrise–sunset (check for seasonal access).
Explore Bourke’s Luck and the river-carved potholes; the site has boardwalks and visitor areas open during daylight hours and is great for geology and photo stops.
Lunch at a popular local eatery in Graskop (Harrie’s Pancakes is a well-known option; typically open c. 9:00am–5:00pm) for a relaxed meal before returning to the lodge.
Optional game drive or guided night drive with spotlighting (night drives subject to lodge availability and local regulations). Night drives usually depart after sunset and can last 2–3 hours.
Short morning drive to catch early activity; many lodges run 2–3 hour morning drives departing around 5:30–6:00am and a later short drive if requested.
Half-day cultural visit to a nearby community or craft market (optional and arranged through the lodge) — great for local insights and purchasing authentic crafts.
Complimentary transfer to Nelspruit/MQP as per itinerary to connect with outbound flights; transfer time is typically 45–90 minutes depending on lodge location and traffic.