Arrive to Johannesburg, South Africa’s economic hub. This city bursts with art, history, and culture and is a great place to add some extra time to explore. “Joburg” combines a modern, metropolitan sophistication with historic townships, creating an ambience that has given life to some of South Africa’s greatest icons and creative minds. Your private guide will be waiting to transfer you to your boutique hotel set in the lush, upmarket suburbs of town. (Flight schedules generally dictate that two nights at the beginning be spent in Johannesburg at the beginning of the trip; your travel advisor will review all of these details with you for the best possible experience.)

Spend the day with a passionate, private local guide who will reveal the city’s incredible history, vibrant markets, heritage architecture, and emerging art and food scene. Enjoy a personal, immersive experience that delves into the history, politics, culture, traditional and contemporary art and textiles, high end shops, and graffiti and street art of this often overlooked city.

Fly to the Greater Kruger National Park, home to several private reserves, luxurious lodges, and some of the world’s premier safari game viewing. With over 2 million hectares of pristine wilderness, the Kruger’s biodiversity sustains numerous species of game and birds. This is the real Africa, away from the hectic pace of life and home one of the world’s best concentrations of wildlife. Your destination is the Makalali Private Game Reserve. From the classic big game such as lions, to the nervously twitching herd of impala after a night of predator action, to the wild dog cavorting in a pack along a dusty tack, or a herd of elephants who appear out of the bush and then silently vanish back into the landscape, this safari destination has it all.

Enjoy your first full day on safari at a private reserve. Head out for your morning game drive as you watch the sun rise and the African bush come to life. The early morning hours are a prime time to spot wildlife, listen to bird calls, and connect with wild nature.

Spend a leisurely afternoon back at camp, relaxing or enjoying your lodge’s amenities, then you’re off for another exciting game drive, led by your expert ranger and tracker.

Explore the bush and enjoy the offerings at your luxury lodge. You will always have the option of two game drives a day, and in the afternoon you may choose to go for a guided walk with an armed ranger, take a dip in the pool, treat yourself to an in-suite massage, or simply partake in an “armchair safari” from your private deck.

There is much more on offer here than the wildlife: delight in safari dining that pairs perfectly with nature’s beauty. Exceptional South African wines and several cuisine choices can be enjoyed in a variety of locations, like an intimate private setting lit by lanterns in the bush, or a festive meal around the fire and stories of a traditional Boma.