I Have Approx 11 Days in Africa - Help Me Plan an Itinerary

kimba88 on 23/05/2025 - 21:41
Last edited 23/05/2025 - 22:07 by 1 other user

I have booked flights to Johannesburg from 13th of August and return 26th of August 2025. I booked these flights with intention of doing a safari of some sort.

I cannot decide whether my short time spent in Africa will be better utilised just in South Africa maybe finding a tour in Kruger for 5-6 days and doing Cape Town ourselves with day trips with tour operators (we do not plan to hire a car). Or, if we should look to do the great migration in Kenya Masai Mara and Tanzania Serengeti. If we choose this option, I can only assume there will be a little more travel involved e.g. flights.

Does anybody have any recommendations on what my partner and I should do? A safari is a bucket list item for me. I just can't decide whether doing something like the great migration would be better or whether I would even be potentially traumatised by seeing animals being eaten by animals. I suppose that could happen on either itinerary.

We are honestly open to anything. I would love to keep the budget to approx. $5k each if possible, but understand with it being so close, it may be difficult. We are looking to get some recommendations on itinerary and companies.

Thanks.

Travel Africa

Comments

  • Wiadro on 23/05/2025 - 21:46
    +6

    personal security

  • MS Paint on 23/05/2025 - 21:47
    +10

    Take a kindle to this dudes elderly relative.

    I initially speed read your title and thought you were planning your last 11 days on this earth.

  • [Deactivated] on 23/05/2025 - 21:54
    +5

    I hear the rains are amazing.

  • CodeXD on 23/05/2025 - 21:54
    +3

    This is actually something you can ask chatgpt and you'll get a really good starting point for your itinerary.

    • kimba88 on 24/05/2025 - 09:16
      +1

      I have tried this, but chatgpt has its limitations. I would prefer personal opinions/experiences.

  • DashCam AKA Rolts on 23/05/2025 - 21:55

    I would even be potentially traumatised by seeing animals being eaten by animals. I suppose that could happen on either itinerary.

    Only happens on days with a "Y" in it.
    I don't think a safari should be on your bucket list. Perhaps replace it with a trip to a butterfly house.
    https://www.butterflyhouse.com.au/

  • star-ggg on 23/05/2025 - 22:02
    +1

    I'd say organise to see the migration since you happen to be there at the right time.

    • Protractor on 23/05/2025 - 22:50
      -3

      For Musks free kick cohort to the uSA or the wildebeest?

  • Protractor on 23/05/2025 - 22:48
    +1

    OMG someone going in the other direction. I'm off to buy a lotto ticket.

  • JimmyF on 23/05/2025 - 22:54

    I have booked flights to Johannesburg

    Did you book them by mistake!?

  • Ozbar Gain on 24/05/2025 - 08:48

    This question has been asked before
    https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/849890

    • kimba88 on 24/05/2025 - 09:14

      Not really, as that is specific to south africa only. I am after opinions and suggestions on south africa or other countries instead. A trip for a family will also be quite different for a trip for a couple. We probably have more flexibility than a family.

  • MrThing on 24/05/2025 - 09:49

    I hear heaps of white farmers are getting killed in south africa

    well so trump says

    • Protractor on 24/05/2025 - 10:08
      +2

      The data doesn't lie
      Trump is listening to the same fabricated lies from within by vested SAfrican interests
      https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-05-22/donald-trump-cyril-ra…

      "South African police recorded 26,232 murders nationwide in 2024, of which 44 were linked to farming communities. Of those, eight of the victims were farmers.

      The High Court in the country's Western Cape ruled that claims of white genocide were "clearly imagined and not real" in a case earlier this year."

      https://factcheck.afp.com/doc.afp.com.36ZD7HY

      Musk and Trump are just resurrecting Apartheid.

    • SBOB on 24/05/2025 - 12:34
      +3

      And plays video footage from the Congo to prove it, which is clearly in South Africa

      • TurnipHead on 24/05/2025 - 12:41
        +1

        tbh, is that not a bit like this post? You don't really see people say, "I booked flights to Tokyo, shall i go to Tokyo and Kyoto or fly to Beijing and go to Beijing, Shanghai and Xi'an?" It's a massive continent with 50 odd countries…

    • trapper on 24/05/2025 - 13:55

      South Africa is an extremely dangerous place, especially for a white person.

      People stay safe by essentially living/working/existing in various fortified compounds.

      Farmers are particularly vulnerable because of the remote locations and the impracticality of fortifying large areas like a farm.

      • Protractor on 24/05/2025 - 19:49
        -3

        You could script write for Trusk White farmers are gunned up and organised .Since the end of Apartheid, Afrikaaner citizens have pretty much set up enclaves (whites only) all over the place. And farmers sitting ducks? Yeah nah>

        "'Farmwatch' groups have been formed with the intention of filling this protection gap. These groups use radio to coordinate mutual assistance between farmers, local Commando volunteers, and private security companies. The particular mix of groups that operate has varied by area, with wealthier farmers being more likely to employ private security firms. The police and these groups are linked together as part of the Rural Protection Plan,[54] created in 1997 by President Nelson Mandela.[42] Some white farmers have undertaken self-defence training, with some farmers trained by an Israeli special forces veteran.[55]"
        (Most parts of the RPA have been disbanded because of the internal remnants of the Apartheid regime were present)

        It is an unwillingness to truly reconcile that has haunted SA. And it is a 2 way process.Trusk is just a willing backer of myth that suits their agenda.
        Relinquishing the power & wealth, or take it all with you has always been the colonial conundrum.

        • trapper on 25/05/2025 - 13:31

          I didn’t say they’re unarmed or disorganised.

          I said they’re vulnerable - the 'protection gap' you mention.

          Why do you think there’s a need for commando volunteers, private security firms, and similar measures.

          • Protractor on 25/05/2025 - 13:46

            @trapper: Because they don't like the shoe being on the other foot. To generalise that the whole of SA is dangerous to white people , ignores the % of victims of crime who are not white.It's more race bait language to create a faux victim-hood, to claw back power. Look at the real numbers.

            Let me guess 'fake news'?

            • trapper on 25/05/2025 - 15:56

              @Protractor:

              Because they don't like the shoe being on the other foot.

              Shoe on the other foot?? No, it's because they don't want to be attacked, raped and murdered.

              • Protractor on 25/05/2025 - 16:31

                @trapper: So your version of history only starts post Apartheid?

  • dasher86 on 24/05/2025 - 11:44

    Option 1: South Africa - Kruger National Park & Cape Town
    This option offers a fantastic blend of world-class safari and one of the world's most beautiful cities.
    Suggested Itinerary Outline (13 Nights):
    * Day 1: Arrive in Johannesburg (JNB), possibly overnight near airport or connect to Kruger area.
    * Day 2-6 (5 nights): Kruger National Park Safari.
    * Fly from JNB to an airport near Kruger (e.g., Skukuza - SZK, Hoedspruit - HDS, or Kruger Mpumalanga - MQP) OR take a guided tour that includes road transport from Johannesburg.
    * Enjoy game drives in Kruger National Park, potentially a visit to the Panorama Route (Blyde River Canyon).
    * Day 7: Travel from Kruger area to Cape Town (fly from Kruger airport via JNB, or directly if available, to Cape Town - CPT).
    * Day 7-13 (6-7 nights): Cape Town & Surrounds.
    * Explore Cape Town using local tour operators for day trips (e.g., Table Mountain, Robben Island, Cape Peninsula, Winelands). You won't need to hire a car.
    * Day 14 (Aug 26th): Depart from Cape Town (CPT) or fly to JNB for your international departure.
    Pros:
    * Variety: Combines "Big 5" safari with stunning landscapes, city life, history, and culture.
    * Pacing: Allows for a more relaxed pace after the safari, with flexible days in Cape Town.
    * Budget: More likely to fit comfortably within your $5000 AUD pp budget, allowing for good quality experiences.
    * Logistics: Simpler travel with established domestic flight routes and tour infrastructure.
    Cons:
    * While Kruger offers incredible wildlife, it's not the Great Migration spectacle.
    Estimated Budget Breakdown (per person, AUD):
    * 5-Day Kruger Safari Tour (mid-range, all-inclusive from JNB or nearby): $1700 - $2200
    * Return Flights JNB to Kruger area (if not in tour): $300 - $450 (many tours include this or offer packages from JNB)
    * Return Flights JNB to Cape Town: $150 - $250
    * Cape Town Accommodation (7 nights, mid-range): $700 - $1000
    * Cape Town Day Tours, Food, Local Transport (7 days): $1000 - $1400
    * Approximate Total: $3550 - $4900 AUD
    Option 2: East Africa - The Great Migration (Kenya - Masai Mara)
    This option focuses on witnessing one of the planet's most incredible wildlife events. In August, the Great Migration herds are typically in Kenya's Masai Mara, often involving dramatic Mara River crossings.
    Suggested Itinerary Outline (13 Nights):
    * Day 1: Arrive JNB.
    * Day 2: Fly from Johannesburg (JNB) to Nairobi, Kenya (NBO). Overnight Nairobi.
    * Day 3: Transfer to Masai Mara National Reserve (fly or road).
    * Day 3-8 (5-6 nights): Masai Mara Safari - focused on the Great Migration.
    * Day 9: Return to Nairobi.
    * Day 10-13 (4 nights): Explore Nairobi area (e.g., David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, Giraffe Centre) or potentially a short add-on (e.g., Lake Naivasha or Amboseli if budget allows – this would increase costs and travel). Alternatively, if your budget is tight, these days might be shorter, with an earlier departure.
    * Day 14 (Aug 26th): Fly from Nairobi (NBO) to JNB to connect to your international departure.
    Pros:
    * Bucket List Spectacle: Witnessing the sheer scale of the Great Migration is unforgettable.
    * Predator Action: High concentration of predators following the herds can mean dramatic sightings.
    * Iconic Landscapes: Vast savannahs of the Mara are classic "Out of Africa" scenery.
    Cons:
    * Budget: Significantly more challenging to achieve comfortably within $5000 AUD pp. Migration safaris in peak season are expensive.
    * Travel Intensity: More flying (JNB-NBO return, plus flights/long drives to the Mara) consumes more time and energy.
    * Less Variety: Primarily a safari-focused trip.
    * Crowds: The Masai Mara can be busy during peak migration season.
    Estimated Budget Breakdown (per person, AUD):
    * Return Flights JNB to Nairobi (NBO): $800 - $1000
    * 5-6 Day Great Migration Safari (Masai Mara, mid-range lodge/tented camp, incl. park fees, internal travel): $3500 - $5000+ (This is the biggest variable; true budget options exist but might compromise on location/comfort/experience for migration viewing).
    * Accommodation, Food, Activities in Nairobi (4-5 nights): $600 - $900
    * Approximate Total: $4900 - $6900+ AUD (hitting the lower end requires very careful selection of a budget-friendly but reputable safari operator).

    • kimba88 on 25/05/2025 - 19:28

      Haha, is that chatgpt? Thanks for that 😊
      Would love to know if you've been and are sharing your experience.

  • TurnipHead on 24/05/2025 - 12:28
    +1

    I'd say stick to South Africa, spend some time in Joburg, do a safari tour and go to Cape Town (or Durban?).
    Unless you're skipping South Africa altogether, you don't have enough time for South Africa + Kenya/Tanzania. Apparently transport (and other) infrastructure isn't as good in Kenya/Tanzania v Southern Africa so I'd suggest doing that as a second trip if you enjoyed your time in South Africa.

    • kimba88 on 25/05/2025 - 19:32

      To be hknest, i didnt really plan on spending any time in joberg. We are only flying into there as i was told that is yhe gateway to south africa.. easy to get connecting flights from. I used points to book the flights, and figured it was a good time to use the points before the increase by qantas.. plus, i just really want to do a safari. Durban is not somewhere i considered. Id probably stick to kruger and cape town.. or just do the great migration in masai mara and serengetti via a tour.

  • trapper on 24/05/2025 - 13:49
    +3

    Stick to South Africa, and do your safari in the Kruger.

    You don't need to book any kind of tour though. Just book the places you want to stay each night and drive around in your rental car.

    The roads through the Kruger are all easily drivable in any normal road car.

    • kimba88 on 25/05/2025 - 19:32

      We really dont want to hire a car and drive around. Especially hearingnof all the car jackings and violence.. we'd rather not put ourselves more at risk.

      • trapper on 26/05/2025 - 11:42

        You just need to know where you are going and have a plan, don't stop in random locations and don't get lost.

        Definitely don't go driving around Joburg randomly 'for a look around', some suburbs you will for sure get car-jacked if you go into them.

        But inside the Kruger is safe, getting to Kruger is motorways which are also safe.

  • Cheehoo on 24/05/2025 - 16:12

    With limited time I would probably skip Cape Town and do more of nature and safaris. It is just another city whereas nature and wildlife in SA is quite special. Joburg is worth seeing it, but extremes are unreal - from artistic and viby places to gated communities with armed guards. One full day or a couple max is enough to feel the place and get out to more interesting little towns along the garden route for example. Hiring car and exploring yourself gives you a lot of freedom and less tourist traps, plus you can do your own drive through safaris on a normal car and stay in reserves (both public and private) where you like. Check vax requirements as well, talk to your GP now.

    • kimba88 on 25/05/2025 - 19:36

      Thanks for the tips.

      We definitely dont want to hire a car. We are happy to just book a small geoup tour where they drive us around.. plus meeting new people is part of the fun.

      We probably do prefer cape town over joburg if we had to choose.

      Its just more a matter of whether its Kruger and cape town or the great migration in kenya masai mara and tanzania serengeti

  • Ughhh on 25/05/2025 - 18:00

    What I've been told by people who know people who have been there or has family there, is to stay with tourist groups. Gangs won't mess with you if they know you're protected.

    • kimba88 on 25/05/2025 - 19:37

      Thanks. Great to know. We definitely plan on just being with tour groups for this trip.

    • Protractor on 25/05/2025 - 19:50

      You're clearly thinking of 10cc Dreadlock Holiday. It's based on a true story, too.Heard it from someone who knows someone who told them, they heard it from a reliable source.

      • Ughhh on 25/05/2025 - 22:22

        Let just say my client doesn't feel comfortable bringing his fiance back home to meet the grandparents.

        Up to you.

  • JustinFR on 26/05/2025 - 12:51

    Not sure how many of the comments here are from people who have even been to that part of the world, but my experience has been super positive, I absolutely love going there and will likely be relocating to Nairobi with the family soon.

    I can't comment on the safari comparison between Kruger and the others, but in terms of cities, I rate Nairobi far higher than Joburg. I felt the general nature of people and life there was more pleasant, people are happy, willing to help and much safer. Can head to Lake Naivasha for a couple nights and try not to get eaten by the hippos :) Can head to Lamu for a more beachy, costal getaway. Masaai Mara ofcourse. Nairobi city itself has a lot to enjoy.

    • kimba88 on 26/05/2025 - 20:29

      I agree with you. I think a lot of comments have been made by people on pure judgements and not experience.

      Great to hear your experience was super positive! And its amazing that you plan to relocate there! I dont really plan on staying around joburg at all.. its just purely for a direct flight from australia with qantas points. Its literally a gateway to doing a safari somewhere in africa.

      Seeing hippos would be a pretty cool experience too!

  • Muppet Detector on 26/05/2025 - 15:35

    Instead of trying to make your own way, since it's your first time, what would happen if you planned your adventure through a dedicated Australian based African Safari tour organisation?

    Presumably, these types of services would be well placed to guide amateur travellers to access an unforgettable experience whilst keeping safety, security, and appropriate travel and accomodation services top of mind for the most desirable outcomes.

    This is one we used a fair while ago who provided us with many memorable experiences.

    https://www.africasafarico.com.au/

    When we worked in SA back in 1988, it was common for whites to wrap barbed wire around baseball bats and keep them at strategic places throughout their homes, including beside their beds…. just sayin… don't know if much has changed though.

    We were working in hotels but didn't go wandering around outside by ourselves very much.

    I think a lot of it really depends on what you want to see.

    The migration may be potentially boring because so much depends on the whims of the animals as to which ones you see and what they'll be doing on the day/time you visit.

    Might be you just see a whole bunch of zebras not doing very much at all.

    In saying that, we took a few Hot Air Balloon rides over Masai Mara

    Kenya & Zambia have a fair few game parks with tailored experiences.

    IMO, Tanzania is the best destination for safari adventures. Very professional safari industry and probably the greatest concentration and number and variety of animals.

    • kimba88 on 26/05/2025 - 20:37

      Thanks for your advice. I'll look into it a bit more. I was just hoping to find a tour in either kenya and tanazania, OR kruger and then book a few days in cape town to organise day tours ourselves from tripadvisor or something.

      Did you ever go to kruger when you worked over there?

      I've since been told that you have to get lucky to see the great migration and there really isnt any guarantee you'll see them crossing the river like the typical pictures you see. Since it is mid august we go, there is a chance we could miss it since it can take up to a week or so gor all animals to cross the river, etc.

    • Protractor on 26/05/2025 - 20:41

      When we worked in SA back in 1988, it was common for whites to wrap barbed wire around baseball bats and keep them at strategic places throughout their homes, including beside their beds…. just sayin… don't know if much has changed though.

      You make that sound like a new thing in SA.It's a hangover from the glory days.

  • movieman on 26/05/2025 - 20:06

    Depends what you're after.

    Based on having 11 days, you'll waste minimum 2 days with flights to Tanzania, even though once you're there it's incredible.

    I'd suggest if you really, really want to see loads of animals, then go to Tanzania.

    But based on your limited time frame, Botswana is where it's at. Get from Jo'burg to Botswana (fly or bus). Chobe has incredible wildlife on day trips from there, plus Vic falls is next door.

    • kimba88 on 26/05/2025 - 20:41

      Yes, the internal flights across africa is what worried me a little.

      Botswana is not somewhere i considered to be honest. I keep hearing of Vic falls. I am still unsure if i want to see Vic falls given i saw Iguazu falls in argentina/brazil in 2023. Not sure if its much different.

      I think seeing loads of animals and the big 5 would be incredible. Do you know of doing a tour for that whole time would get boring and should be broken up with visiting a city like cape town?

      • movieman on 26/05/2025 - 20:42

        DM.

        Happy to discuss this over a phone call.

        Vic falls was spectacular.

        I love animals, hence why keen to suggest options that may suit. But it can be tedious.

        • kimba88 on 26/05/2025 - 20:44

          Thanks so much! I'll DM you! :-)

  • Muppet Detector on 30/05/2025 - 16:13

    Just came across this newspaper article.

    Probably only relevant to this thread because it is about South Africa.

    Generally speaking, crime is rising in SA (like everywhere else I suspect) though it does say SA has one of the highest crime rates in the world but does not provide any supporting evidence for this claim.

    The article is mainly about a little girl who was kidnapped (by her own mother and two others) and likely sold to someone for body parts.

    https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-05-29/south-african-woman-g…

    Such a sad world where a six year old's mother is among one of three convicted of child trafficking her.

    Undoubtedly, this isn't an isolated incident to SA. I'm sure it happens to children and adults all over the world but I think this one is particularly heinous because it was a mother doing this to her six year old child.

    I grew up in a world where we could expect more from our mothers than that. Clearly I am far more fortunate than some others, eh?

    At six her life should be about dreams, fairytales and imaginary worlds filled with wonder and magic. Instead, for this little girl, it looks like she is subjected to the ultimate betrayal that any child could suffer and then made available to low life miscreants without good intentions for her.

    I hope her mother receives a very long and challenging period of incarceration.

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