South Africa

9 Nights: 11-20 April, 2025

Picture yourself behind the wheel of an INEOS Grenadier, on a spectacular drive across South Africa – into the heart of the Eastern Cape. Expert guides lead the way on this 1,800km journey, through a land where history and nature collide.

 

From the elephant-strewn plains of Addo Elephant National Park to the historic battlefields of Zululand, every day offers something extraordinary. Enjoy thrilling game drives encountering iconic wildlife. Uncover stories of dramatic conflicts. And tackle the legendary Sani Pass, where sharp switchbacks reveal breathtaking views. By night, unwind in luxury lodges, and camp under the stars.

 

It's more than an adventure. It’s a chance to discover South Africa’s rich culture, dramatic landscapes, and incredible wildlife. All from the driving seat of the ultimate 4X4.

 

Explore the reverse route for this expedition on our KwaZulu-Natal to Gqeberha page.

Day One – Friday, 11 April

Port Elizabeth to Gorah Elephant Camp

Touch down in Port Elizabeth and pick up your Grenadier 4X4. After a briefing and supplies run, you’ll head to Gorah Elephant Camp. On arrival, you’ll have the chance to settle in before an afternoon self-drive safari in Addo Elephant National Park.

Highlights

• First Grenadier outing
• Elephant sightings
• Afternoon self-drive safari
• Overnight stay at Gorah Elephant Camp

 

Day Two – Saturday, 12 April

Addo Elephant National Park

The next day you’ll be immersed in Addo’s wonders. Start with an early morning guided game drive to see the park’s wildlife awaken in the soft morning light. Elephants, buffalo, and elusive predators are often spotted at waterholes. Spend the afternoon taking in the park’s breathtaking sights and sounds, or explore Addo further with a self-drive safari out into the park. For another option, try a guided horseback safari.

Highlights

• Rest day
• Early morning guided game drive
• Waterhole wildlife spotting
• Optional guided horseback safari
• Overnight stay at Gorah Elephant Camp

Day three – Sunday, 13 April

Gorah Elephant Camp to the Hogsback Inn

Depart Addo and drive to the enchanting village of Hogsback in the Amathole Mountains. Known for its mystical forests, waterfalls, and tranquil atmosphere, Hogsback is a haven for hikers and nature lovers. Explore the Hogsback arboretum and take a short hike to one of the area’s waterfalls, such as Madonna and Child Falls. You’ll be staying at the Hogsback Inn for the night.

Highlights

• Stunning driving routes
• Waterfalls
• Amathole Mountains
• One night at the Hogsback Inn

 

Day four – Monday, 14 April

Hogsback Inn to Tenahead Mountain Lodge

Journey through the Eastern Cape Highlands, navigating gravel roads and expansive landscapes to the remote Tenahead Mountain Lodge near the Lesotho border. Upon arrival, unwind at the lodge with panoramic views of rugged mountains, or take a guided nature walk to explore the area.

Highlights

• Scenic backroads
• Eastern Cape vistas
• One night at Tenahead Mountain Lodge

 

Day five – Tuesday, 15 April

Tenahead Mountain Lodge to Sani Mountain Lodge

Head for Sani Pass, one of the continent’s most famous 4X4 routes. Connecting South Africa to Lesotho, this This legendary ascent winds through sharp switchbacks, offering panoramic views of the mountains and valleys below – a thrilling drive perfect for the Grenadier. At the top, Sani Mountain Lodge, your accommodation for the night. A spectacular high-altitude setting surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Drakensberg Mountains.

Highlights

• Sani Pass
• Highest pub in Africa
• One night at Sani Mountain Lodge
• Drakensburg Mountains

 

Day six – Wednesday, 16 April

Sani Mountain Lodge to Fugitives’ Drift Lodge

Journey into KwaZulu-Natal to explore the historic Anglo-Zulu War battlefields. Arrive in the afternoon to visit key sites like Isandlwana or Rorke’s Drift, where pivotal moments in history unfolded more than 150 years ago. You’ll be staying at Fugitives’ Drift Lodge for the next two nights.

Highlights

• Isandlwana battlefield
• Rorke’s Drift battlefield museum
• Overnight stay at Fugitives’ Drift Lodge

 

Day seven – Thursday, 17 April

Anglo-Zulu War battlefields

The next day, you’ll delve deeper into the Anglo-Zulu conflict with an expert guide and explore the landscapes where the British faced both triumph and defeat. Brought to life through vivid storytelling, it’s an immersive tour with unforgettable narratives.

Highlights

• Explore battlefields
• Expert guided tour
• Overnight stay at Fugitives’ Drift Lodge

Day eight – Friday, 18 April

Fugitives Drift Lodge to Phinda Rock Lodge

Head north to the renowned Phinda Private Game Reserve. Arriving in time for an afternoon game drive, you’ll have the chance to spot Africa’s big five and some more elusive and rare wildlife. Your stay for the next two nights, Phinda Rock Lodge.

 

Highlights

• Afternoon game drive
• Big Five sightings
• Overnight stay at Phinda Rock Lodge

 

Day nine – Saturday, 19 April

Phinda Private Game Reserve

The next day you’ll explore the rich biodiversity of Phinda. Morning and evening game drives provide prime opportunities for wildlife sightings. And between drives, you’ll have the chance to enjoy optional activities like guided walking safaris, river cruises, or visits to nearby communities to learn about local culture.

Highlights

• Morning and evening game drives
• Optional activities, such as guided walking safaris
• Overnight stay at Phinda Rock Lodge

Day ten – Sunday, 20 April

Phinda Rock Lodge to Richards Bay

The final day of your adventure begins with one last game drive in Phinda Private Game Reserve – your chance to experience more of South Africa’s iconic wildlife. After heading back to the lodge for breakfast, you’ll then bid farewell to the wilderness, and head to Richards Bay. Here, you’ll return your Grenadier and prepare for your onward journey.

Highlights

• Final game drive in Phinda