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THE WILDS OF SOUTHERN AFRICA
Sep 21 - Oct 5, 2027
Semi-Private Group Journey to South Africa and Zimbabwe
Hosted by Silke
Imagine waking to the sounds of Africa.
The first golden light of dawn spills across the savanna. Somewhere beyond your lodge, a lion calls into the stillness. Elephants drift silently through the tall grass, and in the shadows of a marula tree a leopard watches, almost invisible but for the flash of a spotted coat.
This is Southern Africa. Wild, beautiful, intoxicating, and utterly unforgettable.
"You hold your breath. Your heart is pounding. And in that moment, you understand something that cannot be explained, only felt. Africa will change you. Forever."
In September 2027, I invite you to join me on a semi-private journey through South Africa, created for just 7 guests. 7 travelers means one safari vehicle, a window seat on every game drive, and the freedom to linger when a moment is too magical to leave. This is a journey shared with a few kindred spirits rather than a crowd, and it is the most personal way I know to experience this extraordinary part of the world.
We have created this journey together with our dear friends and in-country partners at Travel Ass, Divan and Vanessa Hattingh. Born and raised in South Africa, they design tailor-made journeys that connect travelers with authentic wildlife encounters and hidden cultural gems, far from the crowds. For our small group, Divan will personally be our guide throughout the journey. His deep love for his homeland, his knowledge of the bush, and his warmth turn every day into a story you will be telling for years. Traveling with him feels like being welcomed home by an old friend.
Our adventure begins in the private Sabi Sands, legendary for its exceptional wildlife viewing and above all for its elusive leopards. With cameras ready and expert rangers and trackers leading the way, we will set out in search of these magnificent cats, along with elephants, lions, rhinos, buffalo, and the countless smaller wonders that make the bush so captivating. Evenings bring sundowners as the sky turns to fire, followed by dinner beneath a canopy of southern stars.
From there, we continue to the Big 5 Olifants West Nature Reserve in the heart of the Greater Kruger, one of Africa's great wildlife destinations. September is the end of the dry season, when the bush thins and animals gather near water, so every game drive holds the promise of something remarkable.
And then there is Cape Town, where Africa reveals an entirely different kind of beauty. We will explore this spectacular city beneath the iconic silhouette of Table Mountain, spend time with a delightful colony of African penguins along the coast, and wander into the lush Cape Winelands. There, among vineyard-draped valleys and historic Cape Dutch estates, we will linger over breathtaking scenery, wonderful food, and some of the finest wines in the world.
Your Own Wildlife Photographer
A personal wildlife photographer will travel with us, helping you capture the moments that take your breath away. Whether you carry a professional camera or simply your phone, you will learn how to read the light, anticipate the action, and bring home images that hold the magic of Africa long after we return. And sometimes, the greatest gift is simply being able to put the camera down and be fully present, knowing those moments are being captured for you.
With only 7 places available, this journey will be an intimate one, and it will fill quickly. If Africa has been calling to you, this is your invitation. I would love for you to join me.
Silke
And for those who want even more adventure…
Extend your journey to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe for four additional nights and experience Africa from the mighty Zambezi River.
We’ll stay at intimate lodges along the river in Zambezi National Park, where wildlife viewing takes on a completely different perspective. Imagine drifting quietly by boat as elephants come to the water, hippos surface nearby, and crocodiles bask along the banks. Here, the river becomes our safari road — and every sunset seems almost impossibly beautiful.
This is not simply a trip to Africa.
It is a journey into a place of wide-open skies, ancient landscapes, extraordinary wildlife, beautiful wines, warm hospitality, and moments you will remember for the rest of your life.
Click on FULL ITINERARY below to see a day-by-day description of where we'll go.
Itinerary
Tue, Sep 21
Wed, Sep 22
Thu, Sep 23
Fri, Sep 24
Sat, Sep 25
Sun, Sep 26
Mon, Sep 27
Tue, Sep 28
Wed, Sep 29
Thu, Sep 30
Fri, Oct 1
Sat, Oct 2
Sun, Oct 3
Mon, Oct 4
Full Itinerary
Our co-hosts and guides from Travel Ass
Divan and Vanessa Hattingh
We're a husband-and-wife team behind Travel Ass, a South African travel company built around our love for Africa and sharing it with people from around the world.We personally design and host many of our trips, creating experiences that combine incredible wildlife, beautiful places and genuine local experiences while making sure everything runs smoothly from start to finish.
Travel is a huge part of our own story, and we love introducing people to the Africa we know and love. We're also currently preparing to welcome our own twins into the world, so this is very much a family-run business, and we hope that same personal touch comes through in every trip we create.
Where We'll Be Going
What is Required to Reserve Your Spot
Passports are required for this destination. Passports must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry. You must have AT LEAST three blank pages.
All bookings will be made using the information on your passport. Please upload an image of your passport to our secure system when you fill out the form (click the "Book Now" button under my contact card in the upper right section of this page).
To reserve your spot for this once-in-a-lifetime journey, you will need to provide the following for each member of your party:
- Full name as it appear on your passports
- Date of birth
- Sex
- Nationality
- Place of Birth
- Date of passport issue and expiration (If you do not currently have a valid passport or yours is set to expire within 6 months of your return from abroad, don't worry. There is ample time to get a passport. Just let me know.)
- Deposit (see below)
Visas are not required for US citizens for travel to South Africa. All US travelers must complete the Customs Online Traveler Declaration 24 hours prior to arrival in South Africa and obtain a QR code prior to entry: https://www.sars.gov.za/travellerdeclaration/
Visas ARE required for US citizens for travel to Zimbabwe. Visas can be obtained upon arrival at the Victoria Falls Airport. Price is $30 USD and must be paid in cash using crisp, untorn/unmarked bills.
Pricing, Deposit, and Final Payment
Pricing
What is Included:
• All guided sightseeing and excursions as per the itinerary
• All airport, lodge, and activity transfers
• Dining In Safari Areas: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, Teas and Coffees. Selected drinks during safari (where included by the lodge)
• Dining In Cape Town: Breakfast with Teas and Coffees
• National park and conservation entrance fees
• Domestic flights in South Africa and Zimbabwe
• A guide throughout your entire journey
• Professional Photos and Videos : Receive a gallery with all photos and a professional video at the end of your trip
What is Not Included:
• International flights from the US to South Africa
• Travel Insurance
• Visa fees
• Meals and beverages not specified
• Gratuities for guides, drivers, lodge staff, and porters
• Personal Expenses
• Optional activities not listed as included
• Laundry Services
South African Safari
Pricing is based on double occupancy with two people sharing a room.
Price per traveler for double occupancy room: $8,738.00
Price per traveler for solo female traveler sharing with host: $8,738.00
💰 Early Booking Bonus: $350 off final payment per traveler if deposit is made by October 31, 2026
Four Night Zimbabwe Extension
Price per traveler for double occupancy room: $3,492
Price per traveler for solo female traveler sharing with host: $3,492
Deposit
$2498 per person NON-REFUNDABLE deposit to reserve your space on the South African safari (to be paid by credit card)
$1000 per person NON-REFUNDABLE deposit to reserve your space on the Zimbabwe extension (to be paid by credit card)
Final Payment
Remaining balance is due no later than June 1, 2027
A 3% discount is available for those who prefer to pay by wire transfer in lieu of credit card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this trip suitable for first-time safari travellers?
Absolutely! You don't need any previous safari experience. we take care of everything and explain what to expect along the way. Whether it's your first safari or your tenth, the experience is designed to be comfortable, relaxed and enjoyable.
Do I need malaria medication or any vaccinations?
Our safari takes place in the Sabi Sands and Manyeleti, which are considered very-low-risk malaria areas. The risk is also generally lower during the cooler, drier months, although no malaria area is completely risk-free.
Malaria medication is not mandatory for this trip, but we recommend that guests speak to their doctor or travel-health professional before travelling to decide what is appropriate for them. We also recommend insect repellent and covering exposed skin, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
There is no yellow-fever vaccination required for travel between South Africa and Zimbabwe.
What will the food be like?
Food is a big part of the safari experience! Guests can expect fresh, locally inspired South African cuisine alongside familiar international dishes.
Vegetarian, vegan and other dietary requirements can generally be accommodated. We just need to know about any allergies or dietary requirements in advance so we can inform the lodges.
Will there be Wi-Fi and cell service?Yes. At the lodges, Wi-Fi and cell service will be available, even when we're staying in remote safari areas.
When we're out on game drives or walking in the bush, however, there may be little or no cell service. It's a great opportunity to switch off and enjoy being in the wilderness!
Is laundry available?
Laundry facilities or laundry services are available at the safari properties for an additional fee, although the exact service can vary between lodges. We recommend packing relatively light, as you won't need a huge amount of clothing for safari.
What happens if I get sick or there is a medical emergency?
Our guides and accommodation providers have established procedures for medical emergencies, and we'll assist guests in getting the appropriate care if needed.
During the South African portion of the trip, we are always within approximately one hour of the nearest hospital or appropriate medical facility. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical treatment and emergency evacuation.
How much walking is involved?
The main safari experience involves very little walking, as most wildlife viewing is done from the safari vehicle.
There is a walking safari included in the itinerary, which takes place on natural bush terrain rather than a paved path. Guests should be reasonably comfortable walking on uneven ground. Anyone with mobility concerns should let us know beforehand so we can make sure the activities are suitable.
What are the safari vehicles like?
Guests will be travelling in purpose-built safari vehicles. There is a step up into the vehicle, and our guides are always there to assist guests getting in and out.
If someone has mobility concerns or is traveling with an older family member, we'd just ask them to let us know beforehand so we can make the appropriate arrangements.
Are animal sightings guaranteed?
No — and that's part of what makes safari so special!
We're travelling through wild environments where animals move freely. Our guides know the areas extremely well and will do everything possible to find wildlife, but there are never guarantees. Every game drive is different, which is what makes the experience so exciting.
What is a typical day on safari like?
A typical day usually starts early with a morning game drive, when wildlife is particularly active. After breakfast, guests have time to relax and enjoy the lodge before heading out again in the afternoon for another game drive.
There is generally a nice balance between wildlife, relaxation and time to enjoy the lodge.
What happens if I don't want to participate in an activity?
Nothing! While we've planned an exciting itinerary, guests are never expected to participate in every activity.
If someone would rather have a relaxed morning at the lodge instead of doing an activity, that's completely fine. The aim is for everyone to enjoy the trip at their own pace.
Are we safe, and will we be safe?
You’ll be travelling with locals who know the areas, understand the environments, and know what to do — and just as importantly, what not to do. Your safety is our highest priority throughout the entire trip.
We use our local knowledge, experience and relationships to make informed decisions throughout the journey and to ensure that we do everything we reasonably can to keep ourselves and our guests safe and comfortable from beginning to end.
Travel Insurance Required
Travel insurance is required for all travelers on this Eze2Travel hosted group journey. This requirement is designed to protect you and your investment in the trip should the unexpected happen before or during your travels.
All payments made to Eze2Travel are non-refundable. If you need to cancel your trip for a covered reason, filing a claim with your travel insurance provider is the only way to seek reimbursement for eligible non-refundable expenses.
For your convenience, we will provide you with a travel insurance quote so you can review coverage and pricing alongside your trip investment. You are welcome to purchase that policy or choose a travel insurance provider and policy that better meets your individual needs.
Your policy should provide appropriate coverage for your trip, including trip cancellation and interruption, emergency medical expenses, and medical evacuation. We strongly encourage you to review the policy details, covered reasons, exclusions, and benefit limits carefully before purchasing.
Proof of travel insurance coverage will be required for each traveler prior to departure.
Our goal is to make sure you have a plan in place to protect your investment and give you greater peace of mind while traveling with us.
