Panorama Route and Kruger Experience
We've crafted this 7-day self-drive Panorama Route and Kruger safari itinerary based on the feedback of our travellers who often want to make their way to the Kruger National Park on their own terms. Since the national roads are well-kept and easy to navigate, a self-drive is entirely possible, even if it's your first time visiting this region of the country.
We've planned out the car hire (with unlimited mileage), added in all of the accommodation and the wildlife activities to craft a self-drive Kruger safari adventure that will also take you through the Panorama Route. If you've not yet heard of it, this often-overlooked region is blessed with some of the most incredible views you could ever hope to witness.
It's an itinerary that we can also customise and extend for you. All you need to do is get yourself from A to B and make sure your camera is ready to roll. We'll take care of everything else...
Panorama Route and Kruger Highlights
- Great value for money in mid-range accommodation without compromising comfort
- Head out on excellent road networks that are well signposted
- Stop where you want, for as long as you want while on your self-drive route
- The number of days on this itinerary are easily customisable to suit your need
- Visit the scenic Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, God's Window, Bourke's Luck Potholes and Three Rondavels
- Get the best of both a self-drive and guided Kruger game drives
Day 1: Let's Hit the Road
Once you collect your car in Johannesburg or Nelspruit, depending on your personal travel plans, you will feel more than ready to take on the South African roads. For peace of mind, we've included unlimited mileage, premium cover insurance, and 24-hour road assistance.
Your final destination today will be the area of Hazyview, situated ideally to explore the Panorama Route. If time allows and you're not too tired, make your way into town to explore, or if you're ready to hang up the keys for a bit, head to the estate pool to make the most of the South African sun.
Day 2: Roll Out Along the Panorama Route
While you tuck into breakfast, you might even get to see some of the local hippos waddling up some of the banks for a morning graze. After that, its off to explore The Panorama Route, best described as a self-drive lovers' dream.
This route offers the ultimate road trip as you meander through some of the most exquisite scenery you could ever imagine. Visit legendary sites such as Bourke's Luck Potholes, God's Window and the awe-inspiring Blyde River Canyon, holding the title as the third largest canyon in the world and the world's largest 'green' canyon.
The three most iconic waterfalls along the Panorama Route includes Lisbon Falls, Berlin Falls and Mac Mac Falls, each offering their own unique ambience while being conveniently close in proximity.
Day 3: Explore the Kruger
Today you'll finally get to experience the Kruger National Park on your own self-drive adventure. Since the Phabeni Gate entrance is only a 10-minute drive from Hazyview, there's no need to drive too far.
Since you'll be tackling it on your own terms, you can spend as much time there as you like, but since the animals are most active during the early hours of the morning, we highly suggest getting in as early as possible. Keep your eye out for a variety of birds, prides of lion, buffalo, elephant, rhino, giraffe, impala, wildebeest and warthog, to name a few.
Day 4 - 6: On Safari
After a hearty breakfast, its time to make your way to Maseke Game Reserve, which forms part of the Greater Kruger Park. You'll get two full days on safari and hand over the wheel to a team experienced tracker-guides, who will take you out into the untamed African bush to discover a plethora of wildlife in an open safari vehicle.
In between game drives, which depart twice daily, you can indulge in some relaxation time in your room, on the viewing deck, or the swimming pool area.
Day 7: Say One Last Safari Farewell
This morning sadly marks the end of your self-drive Panorama Route and guided Kruger safari. However, there will be just enough time for one last morning game drive where you can witness your last sunrise and the opportunity to catch a glimpse of animals you might not have seen during your self-drive Panorama Route and Kruger safari.
Once you have had breakfast, its back on the road to return to Nelspruit or Johannesburg where you will drop off your hire car, being at the airport makes it easy enough for you to catch a connecting flight to another enthralling destination if you find that you would like to extend your adventure for a few days.
Included
- 7 days’ mid-size automatic car rental with unlimited mileage and premium insurance
- 3 nights’ accommodation at Hippo Hollow Country Estate situated on the banks of the Sabie River
- 3 nights’ accommodation at nDzuti Safari Camp in the Greater Kruger Park
- Breakfast included from day 2 to 7
- Lunch and dinner included from day 4 to 6
- Game drives in open 4x4 safari vehicle under the guidance of qualified and trained Rangers while staying at nDzuti Safari Camp
Not Included
- Fuel, toll fees and additional driver fee
- Park fees and meals not mentioned above
- Drinks, optional activities and all other extras to be settled direct
