Ananda Safaris

Kruger to Cape (Crowdfunding Special) Mana Pools, Zimbabwe
Kruger to Cape (Crowdfunding Special)
This journey is, without question, one of the most extraordinary experiences you can have in Africa – and certainly the most diverse. Within a single adventure, you travel through seven distinct biomes: from vast savannas and dramatic canyons to lush forests, deserts, wetlands, towering mountains, and untouched coastlines shaped by two oceans. You’ll encounter an astonishing range of wildlife – from penguins and seals along the coast to elephants, lions, and countless other species in the wild heart of the continent. But this journey goes far beyond nature. Few regions in the world offer such a rich blend of culture, history, and authentic human connection. From the raw beauty of one of Africa’s greatest national parks to the vibrant energy of Cape Town – one of the most beautiful cities on Earth – every day reveals a new world. We travel in a small group, combining carefully selected accommodations with comfortable luxury camping, allowing for a deeper connection to the landscapes around you. With our 4×4, we reach remote places far beyond the usual routes – hidden gems that most travellers will never see. This is a journey of contrasts and discovery: world-renowned highlights paired with truly off-the-beaten-path experiences, active days filled with hikes and exploration, and meaningful cultural encounters. And for those who want to go even further, this experience can be extended with an additional 8-day journey starting in Johannesburg on the 2nd of March 2027.
Price: 9’800.-

Trip Highlights

Day 1: Arrival in Mpumalanga - Greater Kruger

Upon your arrival, you will be warmly welcomed. Once the group is complete, we set off together towards Kruger National Park. Along the way, you’ll get your first feel for the Lowveld – small towns, lively markets, and vast citrus and sugarcane fields shape the landscape. And then it begins: your very first safari. Within minutes, the bush comes alive – movement in the grass, distant calls, the thrill of spotting your first animals in the wild. In Kruger, wildlife encounters are immediate, raw, and unforgettable.

Day 2: Full day Safari in Kruger National Park

You wake up to the sounds of the wild – a truly unforgettable experience. Today is fully dedicated to safari. We spend the entire day exploring the park, immersing ourselves in this extraordinary ecosystem. With over 500 bird species and around 150 mammal species, Kruger is one of Africa’s richest wildlife areas. During our drives, I guide you through everything unfolding around us – from animal behaviour to tracks, plants, and the subtle details that bring the bush to life. Every moment in Kruger feels alive – a constantly changing theatre of nature where no two sightings are ever the same.

Day 3: Savannah to Panorama Route

We start the day with one final early morning game drive – a reminder that nature is always unpredictable. After breakfast, we continue along the scenic Panorama Route. The landscape shifts dramatically from bushveld to towering escarpments. We explore the breathtaking Blyde River Canyon – the largest green canyon in the world – including the Three Rondavels along its edge. We continue to Bourke’s Luck Potholes and the impressive Lisbon Falls. One highlight follows the next.

Day 4: Graskop – Dullstroom – Newcastle

Early in the morning, we visit God’s Window. A short walk through misty vegetation leads us to a viewpoint that truly lives up to its name. We then continue on a scenic journey. In Dullstroom, we pause to relax before travelling on through the rolling hills of KwaZulu-Natal to Newcastle.

Day 5: Newcastle – Underberg

Today we travel towards the Drakensberg Mountains – the highest mountain range in Southern Africa. Arriving in Underberg, you’re greeted by wide open spaces and a peaceful atmosphere. These mountains are not only visually dramatic but also hold centuries of history within ancient rock art sites hidden in their cliffs.

Day 6: Sani Pass Experience

Today brings a true adventure as we drive up the legendary Sani Pass – one of Africa’s most iconic 4x4 routes. With every turn, the scenery becomes more dramatic. At the top, we reach over 2,800 meters above sea level and take in the vast mountain landscape right at the Lesotho border. This remote highland region is home to the Basotho people, known for their resilience and unique mountain culture shaped by life at altitude.

Day 7: From Drakensberg to Wild Coast

We leave the mountains behind and journey over a series of scenic passes, gradually descending towards the coast. The landscapes change constantly – from rolling hills to remote rural regions deeply rooted in Xhosa culture – until we finally reach the ocean. It’s a long but incredibly rewarding travel day, filled with ever-changing scenery.

Day 8: Full day in Coffee Bay

Today is yours to fully experience Coffee Bay and its surroundings. We visit the iconic Hole in the Wall, a striking rock arch rising from the ocean. The rest of the day is about slowing down: relax on the beach, take long coastal walks, try surfing, or simply enjoy the rhythm of this laid-back place.

Day 9: Coffee Bay – Bulungula

We continue along the coast through traditional Xhosa villages, where colourful homes and thatched roofs define the landscape. Along the way, we take time for meaningful encounters. Here, you gain a genuine insight into Xhosa culture – not staged, but real and personal. We organise something truly special: this is about connection, not tourism – an authentic and deeply human experience.

Day 10: Xhosa Kingdom to the place of waterfalls

Leaving the coast behind, we travel inland through changing landscapes towards Hogsback. Upon arrival, we ease into this magical setting with a first short walk through the surrounding forests – a gentle introduction to this unique region.

Day 11: Hogsback Exploration

Today we fully explore Hogsback – a place of forests, waterfalls, and misty mountain views. We take on one of the area’s most beautiful hikes, leading through lush vegetation to hidden waterfalls and scenic viewpoints. For those interested, we also visit a peaceful local shrine, adding a spiritual and reflective element to the day.

Day 12: Hogsback – Addo Elephant National Park

Today we continue to Addo Elephant National Park where we find ourselfs on the next Safari In the afternoon, we head out on safari through soft hills covered in scrubs. Addo is home to an incredible variety of wildlife – from elephants, lions and buffalo to marine life along its coastline – making it one of the few places on earth where the “Big 7” can be found.

Day 13: Addo – Gamtoos Mouth

We continue towards the coast as the landscape opens and softens. At Gamtoos Mouth, river, sea, and vast dune systems meet to create a striking and ever-changing environment shaped by wind and light. We camp right in the middle of this natural setting – a perfect place to unwind, explore, or simply take it all in.

Day 14: Along the Garden Route

Today we explore the Garden Route. In Knysna, you’ll experience lagoons, forests, and the iconic Knysna Heads. We walk along quiet, romantic forest paths and rivers before continuing to George, surrounded by mountains and coastline. This region is one of South Africa’s ecological gems, where diverse landscapes exist side by side within a remarkably small area.

Day 15: From Rainforests to Semi Desert

A true highlight awaits: the drive over Swartberg Pass. Beyond the pass, we enter the vast Klein Karoo – a rugged semi-desert landscape defined by openness and silence. Here, we set up camp and head out in search of wildlife such as eland, giraffe, and ostrich, enjoy a sundowner and wait for the milky way to rise. The Klein Karoo is a fantastic place for stargazing!

Day 16: Klein Karoo – Hermanus – Cape Town

We travel through striking landscapes towards Hermanus. After a short walk along the cliffs, we continue along one of the most scenic coastal routes towards Cape Town. In the evening, we arrive in the vibrant city and immerse ourselves in its unique cultural diversity, lively atmosphere, and unmistakable urban energy.

Day 17: Cape Town & Cape Peninsula

Welcome to the true southern tip of Africa – the Cape region. We begin at Table Mountain before exploring the Cape Peninsula. In Simon’s Town, we visit the penguins at Boulders Beach. We end the day with a sunset drive along Chapman's Peak Drive – one of the most spectacular coastal roads in the world. The Cape region is a global biodiversity hotspot, home to the unique Fynbos vegetation found nowhere else on Earth.

Day 18: Botanical Garden

Before departure, we enjoy a relaxed morning at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden – one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the world. Afterwards, I transfer you to the airport. You leave with unforgettable memories – from the wild heart of Kruger to the dramatic coastline of the Cape.

Why choose this trip?

This journey is for travellers who seek more than just a holiday – for those who want to truly experience Africa in all its depth, contrast, and raw beauty. It’s ideal for adventurous spirits who value authentic encounters, from close wildlife sightings to meaningful cultural connections. If you appreciate diversity, this trip offers an unmatched range of landscapes, ecosystems, and experiences within one seamless journey. It’s also perfect for those who enjoy being active – combining exploration, light adventure, and moments of pure relaxation. Above all, you choose this journey because it takes you far beyond the ordinary, into places and experiences that stay with you long after you return home.

Climate & Weather

The conditions on this journey are generally pleasant and varied, as you travel through several different climate zones. Inland, you can expect warm days and mild evenings – ideal for safari and outdoor activities. Along the coast, temperatures tend to be cooler and can be influenced by ocean breezes. Overall, it’s a beautiful time to travel, with lush landscapes, fresh air, and mostly stable weather conditions.

Prices and Inclusions

Included

  • Private Guide Ananda Geissberger: Experienced guide for your entire journey.
  • Accommodations: Comfortable camping (loges on extra cost)
  • Toyota Land Cruiser overland Vehicle: Specially equipped vehicle for our adventure
  • Professional Photos: High-quality, professional photos as souvenirs of your journey.

Not included

  • Flights: Flights are not included.
  • Insurance: Travel and health insurance must be purchased separately.
  • Tips: Gratuities for guides, hotel staff, and other service providers are not included.
  • Lodges, meals and drinks
  • anything thats not mentioned in included