South Africa From KwaZulu-Natal to Gqeberha $22,765 per person
9 nights, 24 April – 3 May 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 historic battlefields of Zululand to the elephant-strewn plains of Addo Elephant National Park, 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 Gqeberha to KwaZulu-Natal page.
Day one – Thursday, 24 April
Richards Bay to Phinda Forest Lodge
Touch down in Richards Bay and pick up your Grenadier 4X4. After a briefing and supplies run, you’ll head to Phinda Forest Lodge. On arrival you’ll have the chance to settle in before an afternoon game drive in Phinda Private Game Reserve.
Highlights
- First Grenadier outing
- Afternoon game drive
- Big Five sightings
- Overnight stay at Phinda Forest Lodge
Day two – Friday, 25 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
- Wildlife spotting
- Optional activities, such as guided walking safaris
- Overnight stay at Phinda Forest Lodge
2.5–3 hrs
Coastal forest, gravel roads, wetlands
180 km
Set in the heart of the rare and endangered sand forest within the renowned Phinda Private Game Reserve, Phinda Forest Lodge offers a one-of-a-kind luxury experience deeply connected to its natural surroundings. Elevated on stilts, its floor-to-ceiling glass-walled suites bring the beauty of the forest right into your living space. An unforgettable stay in one of South Africa’s most unique ecosystems. Visit Phinda Forest Lodge.
Spanning over 170 square kilometres, Phinda is a conservation success story and a haven for iconic wildlife. Its diverse landscapes are made up of savannas, wetlands, and forests. They support everything from lions, leopards, and elephants to cheetahs and rare black rhinos. With expert guides, you’ll explore seven unique ecosystems and enjoy close encounters with Africa’s big five.
Day three – Saturday, 26 April
Phinda Forest Lodge to Fugitives’ Drift Lodge
Journey south 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 four – Sunday, 27 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
4 hours
Grasslands, gravel roads, wetlands
250 km
The site of one of the most significant and dramatic battles in the Anglo-Zulu War, Isandlwana was the location where Zulu warriors decisively defeated British forces in 1879. Standing on this battlefield, you can imagine the events that unfolded in this historic encounter. A place of immense cultural and historical importance, it offers a chance to reflect on the bravery and strategies of both sides.
Rorke’s Drift is known for a heroic defence by a small British garrison against overwhelming Zulu forces. It’s one of the most celebrated battle sites in British military history. The well-preserved mission station, which is now a museum, provides vivid accounts of the battle, complete with artifacts and detailed exhibits. The defence resulted in 11 Victoria Crosses being awarded – the most for a single battle in British history.
Fugitives’ Drift Lodge is set on a 5,000-acre game reserve overlooking the historic battlefields of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift. It features beautifully appointed rooms with private verandas, offering sweeping views of the reserve. Relax by the pool, explore scenic walking trails, or watch the wildlife that roams freely around the property. The ideal place to reflect on the day’s discoveries. Visit Fugitives’ Drift Lodge.
Day five – Monday, 28 April
Fugitives’ Drift 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
4.5–5 hours
Mountain passes, gravel roads, savannah
300 km
Winding through the Southern Drakensberg, Sani Pass rises over 2,800m above sea level. As you climb, sharp switchbacks reward you with panoramic views of the mountains and valleys below. Shifting scenery, dramatic cliffs, and rocky terrain make this a drive to remember. At the top, a well-earned drink awaits.
Perched at the summit of the iconic Sani Pass, this lodge is famous for hosting the highest pub in Africa. It’s the perfect place to take in the stunning views of the Drakensberg Mountains and the Lesotho highlands. Unwind here after your journey up the pass and soak up the cosy pub atmosphere. Visit Sani Mountain Lodge.
Known as the ‘Dragon Mountains’, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is an expanse of dramatic peaks, caves and lush valleys. It’s also home to one of the world’s largest collections of San rock art – around 40,000 paintings. Sheer cliffs and rolling landscapes provide an incredible backdrop as you drive through the region.
Day Six – Tuesday, 29 April
Sani Mountain Lodge 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
4-5 hours
Mountain passes
180 km
Day Seven – Wednesday, 30 April
Tenahead Mountain Lodge to Hogsback Inn
Depart Tenahead Mountain Lodge 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
4 hours
Mostly gravel roads
200 km
A serene haven of native and exotic trees, the Hogsback Arboretum is perfect for a peaceful wander. Follow meandering paths through lush greenery, discover hidden lily ponds, and take in the tranquil beauty of this carefully cultivated retreat. It’s a place to pause, reflect, and enjoy nature’s calm.
Tucked away within Hogsback’s enchanting forest, these serene waterfalls take their name from the natural rock formations resembling a mother and child. A short, scenic trail leads to this tranquil spot, where you can admire the cascading water. Other waterfalls in the area include the 39 Steps Waterfall and Kettlespout Falls.
Lush forests, winding roads, dramatic peaks, and mist-shrouded valleys. The Amathole Mountains are steeped in Xhosa folklore. In Xhosa, Amathole means ‘calves’ because the rolling foothills resemble the shape of young calves resting or grazing. And the mountains are said to be home to the rain queen, a mystical figure associated with fertility. The region is also widely believed to have inspired parts of J.R.R. Tolkien's fictional Middle-earth.
A charming retreat nestled in the heart of Hogsback, this historic inn exudes warmth and character. Surrounded by stunning mountain views and gardens, the inn serves as the perfect base for exploring the area's trails, waterfalls, and mystical ambiance. Visit the Hogsback Inn.
Day eight – Thursday, 1 May
The Hogsback Inn to Gorah Elephant Camp
Descend out of the Amathole Mountains and head to Gorah Elephant Camp. Here, you’ll settle in to the camp and have the chance to discover the local waterhole, before an afternoon self-drive safari in Addo Elephant National Park.
Highlights
- Afternoon self-drive safari
- Elephant sightings
- Waterhole wildlife spotting
- Overnight stay at Gorah Elephant Camp
Day nine – Friday, 2 May
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
- Early morning guided game drive
- Waterhole wildlife spotting
- Self-drive safari in Addo
- Optional guided horseback safari
- Overnight stay at Gorah Elephant Camp
3.5 hours
Mountain roads
215 km
Experience the charm of a bygone safari era. This exclusive luxury tented camp in the heart of Addo, combines colonial elegance with the untamed beauty of the wilderness. Enjoy uninterrupted views of the surrounding plains and a waterhole that draws elephants and other wildlife. The perfect place to unwind and enjoy the sights and sounds of the African bush. Visit Gorah Elephant Camp.
Known for its dense population of more than 600 elephants, Addo offers some of the best elephant viewings you can imagine. It’s also home to lions, 400+ buffalo, and herds of zebra (a dazzle). You may also see spotted hyenas, leopards, antelope and warthogs. And look out for the rare flightless dung beetle – it has right of way.
Day Ten – Saturday, 3 May
Gorah Elephant Camp to Port Elizabeth
The final day of your adventure begins with one last game drive in Addo Elephant National Park – your chance to experience more of South Africa’s iconic wildlife. After heading back to the camp for breakfast, you’ll then bid farewell to the wilderness, and head to Port Elizabeth. Here, you’ll return your Grenadier and prepare for your onward journey.
Highlights
- Final game drive in Addo Elephant National Park
1 hour
Grassland
72 km
Port Elizabeth, or Gqeberha as it’s now officially called, is a vibrant coastal hub steeped in history and culture. The city was renamed in 2021, adopting its Xhosa name, Gqeberha, which reflects the country’s rich heritage. Located along the Sunshine Coast, this gateway city offers stunning beaches, historic landmarks, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
This marks the end of your South African expedition, but if you’re planning to explore further, we’re happy to recommend options to continue your adventure.
Please be aware that your contract for the expedition shall be through an external company and not with INEOS Automotive, who disclaim liability to the fullest extent permitted by any applicable law for your participation in this activity. The provision of your personal data in the form above is a request by you to provide this external company with your personal information in order for you to take steps to enter into a contract for the expedition.
External company details: Magalena Corporation, 203 Allied Building, Francis Rachel Street, P.O. Box 381, Victoria, Seychelles.
Images included above are purely indicative, and do not specifically depict photography from the expedition route.