21-Day Southern Africa Highlights Itinerary

Route: Victoria Falls to Maputo

An unforgettable cross-border adventure through Zimbabwe, Botswana, South Africa, Eswatini, and Mozambique.
From roaring waterfalls and ancient ruins to tropical beaches and wildlife-rich game parks, this overland journey offers it all.

Start: Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
End: Maputo, Mozambique
Duration: 21–30 Days (Customizable)
Ideal For: Small groups, adventurous couples, or solo travellers
Travel Style: Lodge-based safari with beach extensions

Trip Notes

  • Fully customizable: Add or shorten destinations to suit your schedule.

  • Accommodation ranges from safari lodges to beach chalets.

  • Activities can be booked in advance or added on the go.

Who Is This Trip For?

If you love variety—wildlife, culture, history, and coastlines—this trip is for you. Perfect for travellers wanting to see more than just “the Big Five.”


Day 1–3: Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Start with a bang at the mighty Victoria Falls.
Optional activities: Helicopter flight, Zambezi sunset cruise, Boma dinner, bungee jump, bridge tour, tram ride, cultural village visit, and more.


Day 4–5: Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

Head into Zimbabwe’s top wildlife reserve.
Highlights: Big game drives, walking safaris, elephant sightings, and optional night drives.


Day 6: Matobo Hills, Zimbabwe

A spiritual and geological wonder.
Highlights: Rhino tracking on foot, San rock art, and Cecil Rhodes’ grave viewpoint.


Day 7: Great Zimbabwe Ruins

Explore the ancient stone city once ruled by kings.
Highlights: Guided tour of the ruins, cultural storytelling, and panoramic views from the Hill Complex.


Day 8–9: Mapesu or Tuli Block, Botswana

Off-grid safari magic with fewer crowds.
Highlights: Walking safaris, stargazing, private game drives.


Day 10: Mapungubwe, South Africa

Cross into South Africa to explore a kingdom buried in time.
Highlights: Ancient gold artefacts, baobab trees, and views over the Limpopo.


Day 11–12: Kruger National Park, South Africa

A flagship safari experience.
Highlights: Big Five game drives, bush walks, and excellent lodge accommodation.


Day 13: Timbavati Private Reserve

Adjacent to Kruger with no fences—perfect for exclusivity.
Highlights: White lion territory, high predator density, and excellent guides.


Day 14: Panorama Route, South Africa

A scenic drive packed with wow moments.
Highlights: God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, and Blyde River Canyon.


Day 15: Eswatini (Swaziland)

Cultural charm and rolling green hills.
Highlights: Local markets, candle-making shops, and traditional dances.


Day 16–17: Xai-Xai, Mozambique

Hit the coast and exhale.
Highlights: Quiet beaches, ocean swims, and seafood.


Day 18–19: Vilanculos & Bazaruto Archipelago

Island life, African-style.
Highlights: Dhow sailing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and sandbank picnics.


Day 20: Tofo & Inhambane, Mozambique

Surfer town meets cultural heritage.
Highlights: Whale shark diving, Portuguese colonial buildings, and laid-back vibes.


Day 21: Maputo, Mozambique

Wrap up your adventure in the capital.
Highlights: Vibrant city streets, seafood feasts, and reflection on an epic journey.

Zimbabwe

  • Victoria Falls: Witness one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Activities include helicopter flips, sunset cruises, bungee jumping, village tours, and steam train dinners.

  • Hwange National Park: Zimbabwe’s largest national park, known for its large elephant herds and predator sightings.

  • Matobo Hills: Rich in San rock art and spiritual energy, this UNESCO site is also home to rhino tracking and cultural encounters.

  • Great Zimbabwe Ruins: Explore the medieval stone city that gave a nation its name—Africa’s largest ancient structure south of the Sahara.

Botswana

  • Mapesu & Tuli Block: Private game reserves with off-the-beaten-path safaris, walking trails, and excellent birding.

  • Chobe National Park: Famous for riverfront game viewing and epic elephant herds.

South Africa

  • Mapungubwe: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site blending archaeology, natural beauty, and cultural mystique.

  • Kruger National Park: World-class safari destination offering Big Five game drives and diverse landscapes.

  • Timbavati Private Game Reserve: Borderless wildlife encounters and chances to spot white lions.

  • Panorama Route: Blyde River Canyon, God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes—scenic stops worth every photo.

Eswatini (Swaziland)

  • Cultural immersion: Markets, traditional homesteads, and lush landscapes.

  • A great cultural pivot between Kruger and Mozambique.

Mozambique

  • Xai-Xai: Seaside charm with unspoiled beaches.

  • Vilanculos & Bazaruto Archipelago: Snorkel, scuba dive, or sail around turquoise waters and coral reefs.

  • Inhambane & Tofo: Laid-back coastal vibes, local markets, and whale shark diving.

  • Maputo: End your trip in this vibrant capital—an eclectic mix of Afro-Portuguese culture, art deco buildings, and fresh seafood.

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