Travel to South Africa: Bush and Beach Safari

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Bush and Beach Safari

			DAYS: 9 GRADE: I-II, Optional diving & hiking define PRICE: From $5195 per person (Includes Local Air) HIGHLIGHTS: Private game reserves near Kruger National Park Maputaland Coastal Forest and Marine Reserves Zulu culture KwaZulu Natal ACCOMMODATIONS: Hotels/Lodges Deluxe Camp MEALS: As noted  [B-Breakfast, L-Lunch,   D-Dinner] Prices, Departure Dates and Included Services Send to a Friend Print this Itinerary

Experience South Africa's varied natural habitats and rich culture on this unique combination of wildlife, beach, and interactions with the Zulu people. Our South Africa safari journey takes you to private reserves where native trackers scout herds of matriarchal elephants and prides of lions basking in the sun. Discover the Indian Ocean's deserted beaches and hear the rhythmic pounding of the feet of Impis, the traditional Zulu warrior.

DAYS 1-3 :  KRUGER NATIONAL PARK, SABI SAND RESERVE
Fly to a private game reserve forming part of the 2.2 million hectare Greater Kruger National Park.  Join a game ranger and a Shangaan tracker in search of the Big Five (elephant, leopard, lion, buffalo and rhino) as well the elusive wild dog, and a wide variety of antelope. Game drives are in open vehicles allowing unobstructed views of wildlife and night drives with spotlights offer chances to catch a glimpse of nocturnal species like genets and porcupines. At night retire to comfortable, stylish rooms and personal attention from the local staff. Evenings are a special time in the bush, often spent with a drink in hand watching the sun set over the vast wilderness. Overnight Little Bush Camp (Standard) or Thornybush Lodge (Family). [BLD]

Beautiful Rocktail Beach is located at a World Heritage Site and offers coastal forests, pristine beaches, and excellent snorkeling and diving.

DAYS 4-6 :  GREATER ST. LUCIA

After an early morning game drive, transfer by light aircraft to the Maputaland Coastal Forest Reserve and Rocktail Beach Camp near the shores of the Indian Ocean. Situated offshore from Rocktail Bay is the Maputaland Marine Reserve, which offers extraordinary diving and snorkeling encounters with huge shoals of fish, dolphins and whales. Rocktail Beach Camp is situated at the current Rocktail Dive Center. The camp is set back in and shaded by the sanctuary of the lush coastal forest that covers the ancient dunes that make up the edge of South Africa's north-east coast. Rocktail Beach camp consists of twelve rooms (including 3 family units), most of which have a view of the ocean. All have en suite bathrooms, open-feel indoor shower and overhead fans. Rocktail Beach Camp also has a central dining room, bar and lounge with large wrap around veranda. A television set and iPod are available in the camp's main area for guests' enjoyment, as well as a large pool. From a scuba diving perspective, Rocktail Bay is unique. Not only is the diving conducted within a Reserve and World Heritage Site along unspoiled reefs, but divers have the luxury of knowing that they alone have access to these sites and are the only underwater visitors along this stretch of the coastline. Overnight three nights at Rocktail Beach Camp. (Read the latest news from Rocktail Bay here) [BLD] *photo courtesy of Caroline Cuthbert

	The proud Zulu remember the days of the Impi, when warriors trained to outrun a horse and walk up to 50 miles in a day

DAYS 7-8 :  THANDA GAME RESERVE
Depart Rocktail Bay this morning for the drive north to the Thanda Private Game Reserve. In a game area rich with wildlife including rhino, lion, elephant, impala, warthog and buffalo, Thanda prides itself on combining fantastic game viewing with insight into the local Zulu culture. Through traditional Impi warrior dances and village visits see the ambition and enthusiasm of the children as well as the incredible effort that is being put into recording and sharing Zulu history and traditions. Sample Zulu food at the lodge, and listen to Zulu songs that will stay with you long after your departure. Overnight at Tented Camp (Standard) orThanda Main Lodge (Family) . (Read the latest news from Thana here) [BLD]

DAY 9 :  END OF SAFARI OR BEGIN EXTENSION
After an early morning game drive and breakfast transfer to Richards Bay Airport in time for your onward flights.  Recommended extensions include the KwaZulu Natal Battlefields or Cape Town and environs. [B]

Extend your adventure with a visit to the unique cosmopolitian city of Cape Town.

Note: The Standard itinerary option welcomes travelers ages 16 and over. The Family itinerary welcomes children of all ages.

Questions? Ask Our Program Directors.

. C o n t a c t Julia Nesbitt 1(800)345-4453