The Experience
The Greater Kruger National Park region is is one of the world’s greatest wildlife refuges. This park is comprised of more than 7,500 square miles of protected land and has been designated as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. It’s also home to more than 500 species of birds and contains more species of large mammals than any other African reserve. Within this region, it’s possible to spot all “Big 5” (lion, elephant, Cape buffalo, leopard and rhinoceros).
Some of the most inspiring and innovative conservation efforts in the world are happening in this same area. Become part of the solution helping local conservationists set camera traps to protect leopards and go behind-the-scenes in the reserve. Along the way, you’ll get up close and personal with a variety of wildlife in a way most travelers never do, including a visit to Jabulani, an elephant sanctuary that will introduce you, up close and personal, to African elephants and the conservation work that surrounds them. This trip allows you to go far beyond the safari — you’ll become part of the wildlife conservation movement!
A Transformative Safari Experience
This is a safari experience unlike any other. Gain a level of access and engage first-hand with some of the region’s most innovative conservation projects while scouting for the iconic wildlife that South Africa is known for.
Our Impact
South Africa’s largest animal reserve faces threats from rhino poachers, leopard-shooting farmers, and outbreaks of immune system viruses among its lion population. Fortunately, there are also many innovative conservation projects happening in the park, with the goal of protecting endangered species. Meet the inspiring leaders spearheading this work including an organization raising awareness about poaching through innovative jewelry, visit wildlife rehabilitation centers, delve into elephant conservation at a local sanctuary, and participate in unforgettable game drives. Go beyond the normal safari experience and live in harmony with nature on an exclusive reserve and become part of the wildlife conservation movement to protect the animals of the Greater Kruger National Park region.
Where You’ll Stay
We work with a portfolio of 4-star lodges in South Africa, all situated amongst the trees where you will feel fully immersed with nature. Your home-away-from-home will be located just along the banks of the Blyde River in the Wild Rivers Reserve, home to a range of wildlife.
All rooms include crisp white linens, a plush bed, and full private bathroom with hot and cold water, hairdryer, lockbox, and fan. You’ll also be able to enjoy your pool, wi-fi, and an assortment of South African beer and wine for sale.
Itinerary Overview
Arrive in Johannesburg and make the scenic drive to Greater Kruger National Park. Along the way, stop at the stunning Blyde River Canyon, the third largest on Earth. Settle into the comfort of your 4-star safari lodge, the jumping off point for our adventures over the next 9 days. Split your time with game drives in the park and engaging with projects and people making a difference. Visit Down to the Wire an innovative organization helping to raise awareness around poaching.
Set camera traps to record the movement of leopards in the park, meet the ambassador animals at a wildlife & rescue center and visit a social impact project linking conservation with community issues and ideals, finding integrated sustainable solutions to issues plaguing conservation such as wildlife crime, poverty, low levels of education and food insecurity. End the trip with an inspiring visit to an elephant sanctuary before taking a short flight back to Johannesburg
Your Expert Local Guide
Discover Corps’ expert family of guides around the world are by your side throughout the journey. Please note that the actual guide may vary from date-to-date.
Conright Mhatabini
Conright Mhatabini was born and raised in a small village called Welverdiend close to the Kruger National Park. He grew up in the exploring rural South Africa and and is the most experienced tracker/field guide on the team. Conright has an incredible knowledge of the wildlife and culture of this region. He always wakes up with a smile and his sense of humor will make every traveler laugh! Conright speaks XiTsonga (the local dialect) and will teach you as much as possible about the South African way of living.
Optional post-trip extensions
Discover Corps’ post-trip extensions allow you to extend your experience beyond the core itinerary and explore unique corners of the destination.
Cape Town (5 Days/4 Nights)
Experience one of the most beautiful cities in the world exploring all of the must-see sights. Meet penguins, cycle through quaint neighborhoods and set sail to Robben Island.
Victoria Falls (5 Days/4 Nights)
Experience the natural splendor of Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls and stay at a charming 4-star lodge on the edge of a national park.
Traveler’s Journal
Sandra A.
Del Mar, CA
Read More Discover Corps Reviews
Rating: 5/5 stars
Dates and Prices
Our trips are inclusive of all activities, lodging, transport and most meals to make your experience hassle-free.
$4,395 Adult*
$4,195 Child*
- Double Occupancy Price. Children’s pricing applies to travelers 16 years old and younger sharing a room with an adult
- Single Room Supplement = $895. This will guarantee you your own, single occupancy room for the entirety of the trip. If you are a solo traveler and would like us to match you with a roommate of the same gender, please book as double occupancy. See full details here.
- *Price does not include mandatory $250 one-way domestic flight supplement
What’s Included:
- 4-star lodging in renowned nature reserve
- All meals and non-alcoholic beverages
- Expert local guides that are there to support, inform and guide you throughout the trip
- Reliable in-country transportation with experienced drivers
- Admissions and entrance fees to national parks, historic sites and other scheduled events throughout the trip
- An active daily itinerary including lectures, day trips and work assignments alongside the local community
- All gratuities for hotels, meals, baggage & transportation
- All land transportation during the trip with licensed drivers
- $50,000 emergency medical evacuation insurance
- 24-hour Discover Corps emergency hotline & turnkey service
What’s Not Included:
- Tip for the Discover Corps Guide and Driver
- International Airfare
- Mandatory One-Way Domestic flight Supplement ($250 additional supplement per person, added at checkout)
Dates
Our intimate, small-group departures consist of like-minded travelers. Don’t see a date that works? Want to make it private? Schedule a personal travel consultation and we’ll make it happen.
2024 Dates
December 15-24, 2024 FULL
2025 Dates
January 5-14, 2025
February 2-11, 2025 FULL
March 9-18, 2025
April 6-15, 2025
April 20-29, 2025
May 4-13, 2025
June 15-24, 2025
June 29-July 8, 2025
July 13-22, 2025
July 27-August 5, 2025
August 10-19, 2025 Space Limited
August 24-September 2, 2025 FULL
September 14-23, 2025
October 5-14, 2025
November 30-December 9, 2025
December 14-23, 2025
2026 Dates
January 4-13, 2026
February 1-10, 2026
March 8-17, 2026
April 5-14, 2026
May 3-12, 2026
June 28-July 7, 2026
July 12-21, 2026
August 9-18, 2026
August 23-September 1, 2026
September 27-October 6, 2026
October 25-November 3, 2026
November 29-December 8, 2026
December 13-22, 2026
Want to learn more?
Alumni & Family Discounts, Monthly Payment Plans, and More
Repeat travelers and groups are eligible for discounts. Looking for a payment plan to help manage your trip? Learn more here.
Customized Private Trips
Let us create a custom trip for your group. Learn more about custom group travel.