An African Wildlife Odyssey

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An African Wildlife Odyssey

Duration18 days

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A woman with binoculars watching elephants from a safari vehicle

Sunset Beach near Cape Town with views of Table Mountain

Destinations

Days 1–4

Cape Town

This epic tour spans the length and breadth of Africa, taking you to some of its best locations for some of its most awesome wildlife and physical experiences. You’ll get up close and personal with mountain gorillas in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, track game in Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Park, experience the majesty of Victoria Falls and witness the raw power of Africa’s biggest predators in the Okavango Delta. Once you’ve had enough thrills and adventure for a lifetime, you’ll end your trip in Cape Town, arguably Africa’s greatest city.

Trip highlights

Enjoy close personal encounters with mountain gorillas in their natural habitat
Tick off each of the Big Five: lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and African buffaloes
Learn about the Maasai people and their culture
Discover impressive views of the thundering Victoria Falls
Immerse yourself in an unforgettable safari experience in the Okavango Delta
Journey to the Cape of Good Hope with a private guide

Observing gorillas in the wild is an incredible privilege

Spot the Big Five on safari

Get to know Maasai culture in Kenya

Victoria Falls make an awesome spectacle

Discover Caper Town with a private guide

Bespoke safaris with Jacada

We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke safaris include:

Exclusive luxury camps, lodges and hotels
Curated and private experiences
Skilled guides and local wildlife experts
Decades of experience from our team of experts
Full support from your concierge based in Africa

Black and white illustration of two guides pointing to a building in the distance

Itinerary in detail

Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.

Days 1–4

Three nights in the heart of Volcanoes National Park

Tucked into the far North West corner of Rwanda, the Volcanoes National Park (Parc National des Volcans) is one of the few remaining havens of the mountain gorilla; its forested slopes are home to over half the world’s 880 remaining gorillas.

Spend your days here tracking gorillas and golden monkeys with expert naturalist guides, or trekking to volcano craters, enjoying cultural tours and tackling the Dian Fossey Hike.

Where you could stay

Positive Impact

Volcanoes National Park

Wilderness Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge

This cosy lodge sits within the foothills of some of Rwanda’s highest mountains. With just six stone cottages, each with bright airy decor that complements the natural surroundings, this lodge is an intimate place to hide away between adventures in the surrounding jungles.

Positive Impact

Volcanoes National Park

Wilderness Bisate Lodge

Utterly unique in its design, six sumptuous forest villas are luxurious while retaining environmental principles and reflecting the culture of the surrounding country. Each has a generous yet intimate combination of bedroom, reception space and bathroom, heated by a central fireplace and a private deck looking out to Mount Bisoke. The spherical stone and thatch architecture, said to be inspired by the Royal Palace of traditional monarchs, continues through to the communal areas such as the dining room, bar and spa, detailed with a variety of woven materials, local crafts and more modern touches. Wilderness Bisate is a short drive to the national park’s headquarters, from where gorilla treks depart daily, and you can also embark upon forest hikes to see rare Golden Monkeys and other wildlife. Visit the site of Dian Fossey’s research camp and grave, meet the community on guided village walks, plant a tree as part of the Wilderness Bisate’s reforestation project or perhaps tag along with the chef to the local market to buy ingredients for dinner.

Positive Impact

Volcanoes National Park

Virunga Lodge

The lodge sits atop a 2,300-metre hilltop with panoramas of the ‘twin lakes’ of Ruhondo and Bulera and the string of Virunga volcanoes laid out in front of you.

Volcanoes National Park

Singita Kwitonda Lodge

The much anticipated Kwitonda Lodge opened in August 2019, and is Singita’s first foray into Rwanda, bringing with it their celebrated philosophy of sustainable luxury. Located in a prized 178-acre parcel of lush meadows and wetlands right on the edge of Volcanoes National Park with magnificent views of the Sabyinyo, Gahinga and Muhabura volcanoes, there are eight suites and a four-bedroom villa, Kataza House. Architects and interior designers are selecting locally sourced and produced materials while the local community has been engaged in building using traditional techniques. A light footprint is central to the project, embodying the gentleness and humility of the great silverback from which the lodge takes its name. Singita has a long-term approach to conservation, and part of the plan is to plant thousands of trees around the lodge. As well as treks into the park to spend time with the gorillas, for which the Kwitonda Lodge is ideally located, you will be able explore the montane forests of Nyungwe National Park, see the rare Golden Monkey and visit the local community. Guests will also have the chance to expand the gorillas’ habitat by helping out with the lodge’s tree planting and habitat restoration project. And, with Tanzania’s Serengeti just a short hop across Lake Victoria to the east, Kwitonda Lodge brings the opportunity for a ‘Singita only’ safari experience combining gorillas and the astounding Grumeti Reserve.

Nyungwe National Park

One&Only Nyungwe House

Low and wide amid the leaves of its very own tea plantation surrounded by ancient rainforest, Nyungwe House’s modern architecture is a wonderful contrast to its verdant setting. There are 22 rooms and suites split between six wooden villas, with vast windows and private decks opening up into the forest. There are open fireplaces in each and every room and suite, with interiors and artwork inspired by the nature and traditions of Rwanda. The main lodge building is home to lounge areas, bar and dining space where you can enjoy sun-rise breakfast (or, for late risers, all day à la carte brunches in your room) and mouth-watering, organic, garden-to-plate menus at dinner, with lunches usually enjoyed while out exploring. Nyungwe Forest, an ancient place of majestic mahoganies, giant ferns and delicate orchids, is renowned for its wide diversity of animal species and the lodge has a variety of treks available for those wishing to see chimpanzees, white colobus, grey-cheeked, golden and rare Mangabey monkeys. You can also take to the heights of the nearby canopy walk, ride mountain bikes, take a day trip to the waters of Lake Kivu or immerse yourself in the local culture on a range of tailored experiences that will give you an insight into crafts, cuisine and more.

Gorilla tracking in Volcanoes National Park

Group of mountain gorilla in bamboo forest

The forested slopes of the Virunga massif are gentler and have open bush allowing for easier tracking and observation of these animals than in other parks. In a group of eight permit holders, your guide will use their expert knowledge to trace the gorillas’ movement through the forest and lead you to a glimpse of them. The trek can vary greatly in length, but once you’ve located the gorilla family, you’ll have an hour to marvel at them in their natural habitat.

Days 4–8

Three nights in the Maasai Mara

Spend your time exploring the world famous Maasai Mara National Reserve with morning and afternoon game drives. During the migration season you’ll also be on the look out for the famous river crossings. The exact activities available will depend on your lodge and our travel designers will help pick the one that suits you best.

Where you could stay

Maasai Mara

Rekero Camp

The interiors are spacious with comfortable beds and each tent enjoys river views from the veranda. The rear of the tent leads to a tented bathroom with a flush toilet, a sink and a safari shower. A team of safari chefs prepare fresh and tasty home-style meals for guests during their stay. Meals are enjoyed out on game drives, by the water’s edge under the shade of an African Pepper tree or by candlelight in the open mess tent higher up the bank. The area plays host not only to an extraordinary concentration and diversity of wildlife but also to one of mother nature’s greatest spectacles: the annual migration of millions of wildebeest and zebra across the Serengeti/Mara eco system. Even when the migration is not here, there is plenty of resident game to ensure that even in low season it is still one of the finest wildlife locations in Africa. Rekero’s bush guides are widely recognised to be among the best in East Africa. They undergo a long period of professional training beyond the learning of guiding skills to fully understand the complexity and demands of delivering quality service at the very highest level. Game drives in the park are all done in the company of these experts who can also share their culture in this extraordinary setting.

Maasai Mara

Governors’ Private Camp

Private. Absolutely yours. Right on the river. This superb camp offers you the chance to be completely and entirely alone on the bend of the river that attracts some phenomenal game. For a minimum of four guests up to 16, you will be looked after by the best guides and trackers to make the most of your experience here in this famous Kenyan reserve. Listen to the sounds of the bush from your canvas tents and wait for the game to come to you. Your hosts will give you their undivided attention and the dining experiences are superb. With access to the big five on your doorstep, you can enjoy three game drives a day to maximise your viewing opportunities. Even if you stay here when the migration are down in Tanzania, you will still have a huge host of excellent game to see including the big five. If you feel like the vehicles and drives are a bit much, you could always opt to do a guided bush walk instead and see the smaller details of the African bush than can often get overlooked while sitting perched up high on a cruise. See the tracks of the beasts who roam this wilderness and feel humbled by the experience.

Positive Impact

Mara Conservancies

Angama Mara

Towering high on the Rift Valley’s Oloololo Escarpment with direct and private access to the Mara Triangle, this lodge's name was inspired by the Swahili word for ‘suspended in mid-air’. It's not only its location that makes it stand out, but also its commitment to education, health and conservation in the region.

Days 8–11

The Victoria Falls and the mighty Zambezi River

The thundering Victoria Falls rank as one of the most spectacular sites in all of Africa. As the mighty Zambezi River crashes over sheer cliffs onto the rocks below it sprays a cloud of water high into the air that has earned it the local name of Mosi-oa-Tunya (literally translated as ‘the smoke that thunders’).

Livingstone is the town found on the Zambian side of the water, and luxury hotels either in the town or somewhere alongside the Zambezi upstream are a great base from which to fully explore this magnificent spectacle. Whether on privately guided tours of the falls, spotting hippos on river based safaris, white water rafting in Batoka Gorge or visiting the famous Livingstone Island, we’ll make sure that you make the very most of your stay here.

Where you could stay

Zambia

The Royal Livingstone

Set just a short walk away from the falls themselves on the banks of the Zambezi, one can admire the coil of steam and spray rising from the falls on the horizon. The 173 rooms and suites are set in well manicured gardens along the banks of the river. This is one of just a few hotels from which the falls can be accessed on foot, making it ideal for those who want to be as close as possible. The hotel has been built in a colonial style, harking back to the days of it’s namesake, with grand dining and lounge areas as well as a large outdoor pool and riverside deck.

Zambia

Royal Chundu Island Lodge

You’ll find the Island Lodge in prime position on the exclusive Katombora Island, protected by the Katombora rapids. A Relais & Châteaux property, and sister to the River Lodge, the Island Lodge offers guests a tranquil, luxurious, and exclusive getaway. Royal Chundu properties support a selection of positive impact initiatives including Pack for a Purpose, a foundation school and a seed project. The lodge divides itself between four, spacious and magnificent villas, providing guests with the utmost privacy during their stay. Each villa sleeps between four to six people and features private decks and spacious rooms, surrounded by the island’s unique baobabs and two thousand year old Jackalberry trees. Visit the intimate boma area for outdoor evening meals or the dining room for indoor occasions. There’s also an infinity pool, spa facilities, and two lounges for you to enjoy during your stay.

Positive Impact

Livingstone and Victoria Falls

Tongabezi

Set on the banks of the Zambezi in a secluded spot upstream from Victoria Falls, Tongabezi delivers luxury and tranquility in equal measure. This is one of the most romantic places to stay in the area, the five cottages and seven open-fronted houses that make up the camp offering bags of personality and character.

Days 11–15

Four days exploring the Okavango Delta

You will spend your days going on day and evening game drives to experience the beauty of the Okavango Delta and the magnificent wildlife that lives here. Depending on which lodge you choose to stay at there will be a number of different activities that you can choose from to immerse yourself in this incredibly diverse, natural environment, but of course, the delta is celebrated for its water safari activities. From zooming through the waterways on a powerboat to drifting along in a mokoro, your guide will reveal the secrets of the Delta, while you enjoy seeing tiny frogs and beautiful birdlife, from the lilac breasted roller to the larger waterbirds such as herons, storks and if you’re lucky, the Pel’s Fishing owl.

Where you could stay

Okavango Delta

Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge

Organic and hand-woven, private and intimate, Sandibe is an architecturally unique hideaway deep in the mighty Delta. Dressed in shades of copper and wood, the lodge’s grand and high interiors open out to even grander views, with spacious decks offering a spectacular spot to drink in the resident wildlife. Emerging among riverside trees in a private concession come the eight elegant suites, each exuding a sense of laid-back luxury. Filled with giant king-sized beds, outdoor showers and sparkling private plunge pools, they provide the perfect comfort after a day of spotting the Big Five on exhilarating game drives. An alfresco banquet of Pan-African cuisine is then cooked up by expert chefs, while the relaxed but attentive butlers ensure you enjoy an entirely seamless stay.

Okavango Delta

Duba Plains

One of the most unforgettable safari experiences in Botswana, this is the area where Dereck and Beverly Joubert have spent years filming and photographing the amazing lions and buffalo that inhabit this part of the Delta. What makes the lions of this area so special, is their tendency to hunt during the daylight hours for the buffalo, meaning that you have a much greater chance of seeing the hunt (and the kill) in action that in other areas. This makes for dramatic, exciting game viewing when you are lucky enough to witness these amazing creatures in action. This is a private 77,000 acre private reserve, helping to protect and conserve the amazing wildlife of the area. The lodge itself has just 6 comfortable tents with a maximum of 12 guests. The tents are comfortable and cosy, decorated with brass fittings and period pieces, harking back to the style from the 1920’s. Photos of the Joubert’s work adorn the walls of the lounge and bar area, where guests are encouraged to mingle and exchange stories of the day’s viewing.

Positive Impact

A Vumburu Plains safari camp bedroom with a view of the plains and natural surroundings

Okavango Delta

Wilderness Vumbura Plains

Botswana’s mesmerizing Okavango Delta is now brighter than ever with the newly transformed (as of 2022) Vumbura Plains. Nestled in a large private concession of 60,000 hectares in the far north of the Delta, the camp is enveloped in some of the most incredible landscapes, home to some of the best wildlife encounters in the area. Inside, the camp celebrates its sense of place and culture, with design elements that pay homage to its wonderful setting with patterns, textures and colours bringing nature inside. Rooms at the lodge are amongst the biggest in the delta, all open plan, with a sunken seating area, private shaded deck and swimming pool outside as well as indoor and outdoor showers. There is an amazing sense of space here, in keeping with the wide-open plains that the rooms face onto. The rooms are open on three sides (with netting) giving a feeling of being closer to the nature and wildlife whilst still remaining is absolute comfort. The local connections continue throughout the camp experience.The menu celebrates seasonal produce sourced directly from local farmers, suppliers and artisans. Activities here are a mixture of game drives and water activities which will vary according to the level of the water and the time of the year. You will find day and night drives, walks and mekoro (dugout canoes) activities, with hot-air ballooning – from April to September each year – as well as scenic helicopter flights, making Vumbura an exclusive destination for the discerning adventure-seeker.

Mombo Concession - Okavango

Wilderness Mombo Camp

One of the most famous camps in all of Africa, Wilderness Mombo rightly deserves its reputation due to its remarkable game viewing experiences coupled with the service and luxury of the camp.

Days 15–18

Three nights immersed in the wonders of Cape Town

One of the most beautiful cities in the world, Cape Town is a city that can really take your breath away. The horizon is dominated by the iconic Table Mountain, and in the foreground are the crisp waters of the cape, and the laid-back bustle of the city’s waterfront skirted by sandy beaches and picturesque suburbs.

Your visit will take you to the Houses of Parliament, the Castle (South Africa’s oldest building, built 1666–1679), the lively Green Market Square with its daily market, the Bo Kaap neighbourhood (formerly known as the Malay Quarter), the coastal suburbs, and of course, Table Mountain and Cape Peninsula.

Where you could stay

South Africa

Ellerman House

Ellerman House is a class act throughout. It feels very much like your own home but with top class service befitting a five-star hotel. Perched in one of the most spectacular and privileged settings in Cape Town overlooking Bantry Bay, it is the epitome of comfort and class with a relaxed, elegant style. Decoration is colonial, with a nod to the contemporary and recently refurbished to provide thoroughly modern comforts. Where Ellerman House excels above others is the excellent house staff, who in these grand surrounds create such a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Taking a (complimentary) evening cocktail from the lounge and strolling out onto the peaceful gardens overlooking the sea for sunset is the perfect end to a day in Cape Town as one feels both special and relaxing. There are just 11 rooms, two suites and two private contemporary villas. Communal areas include a spacious lounge, large garden area (with outdoor pool) and a huge spa. There is an open kitchen you are invited to visit, a pantry that you can raid as well as the complimentary evening cocktails. A particular feature of the property is its private art collection. This is simply outstanding, one of the best in South Africa with works from African masters inside the main building and then, underneath is a contemporary gallery. For anyone interested in art this will add an extra element to their stay. Guests are also able to book Sleep Rooms at Ellerman House. A concept created by wellness expert Harry Jameson, each of the 13 rooms at the property can be converted into wellness rooms specially designed to optimise both sleep and recovery.

Positive Impact

South Africa

Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel

Set in the fashionable Kloof Street area, the Cape Cadogan is a wonderful boutique hotel. The historic, listed building has been decorated with contemporary neutral hues giving a more light and spacious look whilst the elegant fixtures remain true to the origin of the building.

Make it mine

cable car

road trip

The Table Mountain cableway

Enjoy absolutely spectacular views towards Robben Island, over Camps Bay and the beach and along the Twelve Apostles in the direction of Hout Bay from Cape Town’s most iconic landmark.

The Cape of Good Hope, Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town’s Cape Peninsula

Drive the scenic coastal roads around Cape Town, taking in the highlights along the way. Your journey winds through Hout Bay and up over Chapman’s peak for truly stunning views of the coastline, before climbing to the famous Cape Point Lighthouse, and stop at the south western most point of Africa – the fabled Cape of Good Hope. You’ll spot penguins at Boulders Beach, and stop at quaint fishing villages on the way back.

“Jacada planned our perfect safari!‌”

My husband and I recently traveled to South Africa and we utilized Jacada travel services. Jody Van Merode planned the perfect trip for us- we spoke over the phone and she put together an itinerary that would best match what we wanted to see, our interests and our budget! We visited two very different game reserves - each beautiful in…

Published 04th September 2024 on Trustpilot

Dawn S

Why book with Jacada

Personalised design

We’ll plan your trip around your personal interests, tastes and preferences, providing honest advice based on first-hand knowledge.

Authentic experiences

Our expert guides and brilliant concierges are hand-picked for their ability to bring your destination to life with care and passion.

Positive Impact

We seek out unforgettable experiences that benefit both local communities and the environment.

Trip highlights

Bespoke safaris with Jacada

Itinerary in detail

Days 1–4

Three nights in the heart of Volcanoes National Park

Where you could stay

Wilderness Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge

Wilderness Bisate Lodge

Virunga Lodge

Singita Kwitonda Lodge

One&Only Nyungwe House

Gorilla tracking in Volcanoes National Park

Days 4–8

Three nights in the Maasai Mara

Where you could stay

Rekero Camp

Governors’ Private Camp

Angama Mara

Days 8–11

The Victoria Falls and the mighty Zambezi River

Where you could stay

The Royal Livingstone

Royal Chundu Island Lodge

Tongabezi

Days 11–15

Four days exploring the Okavango Delta

Where you could stay

Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge

Duba Plains

Wilderness Vumbura Plains

Wilderness Mombo Camp

Days 15–18

Three nights immersed in the wonders of Cape Town

Where you could stay

Ellerman House

Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel

Make it mine

cable car

road trip

The Table Mountain cableway

Cape Town’s Cape Peninsula

Why book with Jacada

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