wolfebd

Hello! I am in my late 20s and in law school. I am going to be traveling to South Africa alone for spring break. I will arrive in Cape Town Mar 12 and depart Johannesburg on Mar 19 to return to the states. I am looking for some assistance with planning my itinerary. I'd like to remain in Cape Town for two nights and visit Robbin Island and take in the city as best as possible (obviously will be difficult in only a couple of days but I will do my best to see the highlights). Then I'd like to head north to engage in a three day safari - I assume it makes most sense to go to Krueger (instead of heading to Botswana or elsewhere). Question 1: based on my limited time, if I want to see the big 5 (or as close as possible), is Krueger the best destination? If so, does anyone have a recommendation for a reasonably priced but safe guide organization? I would be happy to camp or endure a bit more rustic setting as long as I'm safe and having a great experience. Question 2: is there a good train from Cape Town to Krueger and would anyone recommend this mode of travel to see the country as I journey north? After a safari, I would then look to travel to Johannesburg for a couple of days to take in the city before departing for home.

Thanks in advance for any recommendations or assistance you may be able to offer. I'm very excited to maximize this opportunity as I know I will likely not return to SA for many years.
Best,
Brian

wolfebd

Also, does anyone have a recommendation for a safe place to stay in Cape Town or Joburg? Even at someone's home if safe and in good location and reasonably priced. Thanks!

santharamhari

wolfebd,

For a three night safari, i suggest you stick to SA instead of hopping over to Bots.

If you want to maximize your gameviewing chances, i suggest going to the private reserves in the Sabi sands that borders the Kruger park. There are no fences and the animals are wild, yet....you have a good chance to see a lot of game.

However, that is a bit more expensive. There are some less expensive options in the Sabi Sands like, Elephant hills, Chitwa Chitwa, Djuma bush camp......i suggest a minimum three night stay at one location!!!

Hari

wolfebd

Thank you! Is that Elephant Hills or Elephant Plains? Also, what is the best mode of transportation from CT to Krueger? Finally, between Elephant Hills/Plains, Chitwa Chitwa, and Djuma bush camp, any particular recommendation? Thanks!

santharamhari

wolfebd,

yes, elephant plains...you are correct.

I think all those properties will be very good. Eric on these boards, has been to djuma and liked it there.....although he may have visited Djuma vuyutela which is the more upmarket lodge of theirs.

Seriously, anywhere in the Sabi Sands will be very good.

If you dont mind a splurge, most people on these boards are gaga for Mala Mala. You will find plenty of fodorite trip reports and pictures from there.....

Cheers,
Hari