16 Day Slackpacking Adventure - South Africa

From R50 680 p/p sharing (2026)

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Discover South Africa’s spectacular landscapes on foot with this 16-day slackpacking adventure. Traverse world-renowned trails including the Oystercatcher Trail near Mossel Bay, the Drakensberg Giant’s Castle Trail, and the Olifants River Wilderness Trail in Kruger National Park. Carry only a small day pack while comfortable accommodations and meals await at the end of each day. Ideal for nature lovers who want an immersive hiking experience paired with excellent hospitality.

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Itinerary:

Day 1 – Arrival and Garden Route to Boggoms Bay
Arrive early at Port Elizabeth Airport and collect your rental car. Enjoy a scenic drive along the Garden Route to the peaceful seaside village of Boggoms Bay near Mossel Bay. Settle in for dinner and a restful night before the start of your hiking adventure.

Days 2 to 4 – Oystercatcher Trail Hike
Join your professional guide for the iconic Oystercatcher Trail, named one of the world’s top 50 hikes. Walk along largely undeveloped coastline rich in fynbos vegetation, explore archaeological sites, and watch for whales, dolphins, and abundant birdlife. Accommodation varies depending on group size.

Day 5 – Hermanus Whale Watching
Drive to Hermanus and spend the night at the historic Windsor Hotel overlooking Walker Bay. Take a leisurely stroll along the cliffs and, in season, watch southern right and humpback whales breaching and calving.

Day 6 – Flight to Durban and Drive to Drakensberg
After breakfast, return your rental car at Cape Town International Airport and fly to Durban. Collect your new rental car, then drive inland to the foothills of the Drakensberg Mountains. Relax at Antbear Lodge before your next hike.

Days 7 & 8 – Drakensberg Giant’s Castle Trail
Hike in the breathtaking Drakensberg Giants Castle area, famed for its floral diversity and dramatic views. Stay two nights at Leopards Lair Lodge, enjoying the authentic farm atmosphere and wildlife, followed by a luxury night at a 5-star safari lodge in Zulu Waters Game Reserve with a private chef.

Day 9 – Return to Antbear Lodge
After breakfast, return to Antbear Lodge for a cozy night on a bed and breakfast basis. Use the day to explore or relax in the beautiful mountain surroundings.

Day 10 – Drive to Dullstroom
Travel to the charming village of Dullstroom in Mpumalanga Highlands. Spend the night at Critchley Hackle Lodge, known for its warm hospitality and delicious breakfast.

Day 11 – Kruger National Park Arrival
Journey to Kruger National Park, taking in highlights of the Panorama Route such as Bourke’s Luck Potholes and God’s Window. Stay at Olifants Rest Camp overlooking the Olifants River. This evening is self-catering.

Days 12 to 14 – Olifants River Wilderness Trail
Accompanied by expert rangers, hike the immersive Olifants River Wilderness Trail. Walk during cool morning and late afternoon hours, resting at midday to observe hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife. Accommodation is rustic but comfortable huts, with meals prepared for you.

Day 15 – End of Trail and Olifants Rest Camp
Complete your hike and return to Olifants Rest Camp for a final self-catering night in the bush.

Day 16 – Departure from Johannesburg
Drive to OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, return your rental car, and prepare for your onward journey or flight home.

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From R50 680 p/p sharing (2026)

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Includes

• 4 nights accommodation on a full board basis (The Oyster Catcher Trail) – Boggoms Bay
• 1 nights accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis (Windsor Hotel) - Hermanus
• 1 nights accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis (Granny Mouse Country House) – Nottingham Road Area
• 2 nights accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis (Goodersons Monks Cowl) – Central Drakensberg
• 1 nights accommodation on a full board basis (Cathedral Peak Hotel) – Northern Drakensberg
• 1 nights accommodation on a room only basis (Critchley Hackle) – Dullstroom
• 1 nights accommodation on a self catering basis (Letaba Rest Camp) – Kruger
• 3 nights accommodation on a full board basis (Olifants Wilderness Trail) – Kruger
• 1 nights accommodation on a self catering basis (Letaba Rest Camp) - Kruger
• Car Hire for 16 days (VW T-Roc or Similar)
• Flight from Cape Town to Durban (Safair – Economy Class)

Excludes

• International flights to/from South Africa
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses and gratuities
• Meals specified as self-catering
• Optional activities outside itinerary
• Fuel for rental vehicles

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