South Africa Safari - May 2027

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SOUTH AFRICA SAFARI ADVENTURE

MON 3 MAY - THURS 13 MAY 2027
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Inclusive Safari Adventure in South Africa

Experience Africa’s wild heart on a curated 11-day safari. This immersive adventure blends unforgettable wildlife encounters, birding, and photography opportunities combined with restorative downtime in the Greater Kruger Region.

This South Africa adventure is designed to be a safe, joyful, affirming space for all women and gender-expansive folks who feel comfortable in a women-centered community. 


We have created a LQBTQ+ travel guide for this trip that answers a lot of questions that our LGBTQ+ friends may have. Scroll down to view the guide.

Our homebase is a privately owned Bush Lodge, set inside the Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate. From sunrise game drives to stargazing dinners, you’ll experience the magic of South Africa with a hand-selected team of expert guides, local hosts, and AdventurUs Women trip leader.

This safari is the perfect balance of adventure, connection, and relaxation — and you don’t need any previous experience to join.

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TRIP OVERVIEW

When: 🗓️ 10 Nights/11 Days | May 3-13, 2027

Where: 📍Hoedspruit, South Africa. Trips starts and ends in Johannesburg.

Activities: Safari game drives, river cruise, elephant rescue visit, bush walk

Group Size: 4-8 people

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TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

  • Private game drives exclusively for our group in an open-air 4×4 with an expert wildlife guide

    • 8 game drives on a private Big Five reserve in the Greater Kruger

    • 4 game drives in Kruger National Park

  • Guided bush walk inside a Big Five reserve

  • Intimate elephant encounter with rescued elephants

  • Blyde River Canyon private boat cruise — the world's 3rd largest canyon

  • Private cook

  • Traditional braai dinners under the stars

  • Relax day with in-room massage treatments

  • Down time at our private lodge with pool, decks, and wildlife views

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Activity Level 1 (Easy)

  • Activity Times: 1 - 3 hours 

  • Distance/Elevation: Hiking mileage 1- 2 miles with modest elevation gain - less than 200  ft

  • Terrain: May include flat and uneven ground.

  • Activities Include: Hiking, wildlife viewing, photography, bird watching, extended time in a 4x4 game vehicle

Preparation:  Ideal for newer adventurers or those just looking for fun and good conversation. Suitable for most fitness levels. People who get car sick or motion sickness may have a hard time in the safari vehicle.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL DAY

Mon 3 May 2027
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Our trip begins on May 3, 2027 with your arrival to Johannesburg.

Where to Fly To:

  • O. R. Tambo International Airport (JNB)

  • On flights arriving before 4 pm (local time)

Touch down in Johannesburg and meet up with your AdventurUs Women trip leader. Settle into a comfortable nearby hotel, unwind from your travel day, and join the group for an evening welcome meetup dinner to connect, review the adventure ahead, and ease into South African time.

  • Meals included: Dinner

  • Meals not included: Breakfast, Lunch

  • Lodging: Johannesburg Hotel

*Trip requires a minimum # of travelers to run. Trips will be confirmed 60 days, or sooner, prior to start date. If purchasing your airfare prior to this, we recommend purchasing a refundable ticket.

Day 2: Flight to Hoedspruit + First Sunset Game Drive

Tues 4 May 2027
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Flight to Hoedspruit + First Sunset Game Drive

Enjoy a short, scenic morning transfer flight to Hoedspruit—the gateway to South Africa’s legendary wildlife reserves. Check into Rafiki Bush Lodge, your cozy home in the bush. After settling in, head out on your first sunset game drive, watching the golden light fall over the land as elephants, giraffes, and antelope begin their evening movements.

  • Meals included: All

  • Meals not included: NA

  • Lodging: Rafiki Bush Lodge

Day 3: Sunrise & Sunset Game Drives

Wed 5 May 2027
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Sunrise & Sunset Game Drives

Your safari rhythm begins: early morning and late-afternoon game drives on a private Big Five reserve. With a skilled local guide sharing their knowledge, you’ll track lions, spot zebras, and witness the quiet beauty of the bush at dawn and dusk. A mid-day break offers an opportunity to relax at the lodge. End the day with an amazing dinner— served under the stars.

  • Meals included: All Meals

  • Meals not included: NA

  • Lodging: Rafiki Bush Lodge

Day 4: Sunrise & Sunset Game Drives

Thurs 6 May 2027
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Sunrise & Sunset Game Drives

Your safari adventures continue: early morning and late-afternoon game drives on the private Big Five reserve with the guide sharing their knowledge. Continuing the opportunity for animal and bird sightings. Mid-day break offers an opportunity to relax at the lodge. End another amazing day with a delicious dinner.

  • Meals included: All Meals

  • Meals not included: NA

  • Lodging: Rafiki Bush Lodge

Day 5: Transfer Into Kruger National Park + Evening in a Rest Camp

Fri 7 May 2027
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Transfer Into Kruger National Park + Evening in a Rest Camp

Today you’ll journey into iconic Kruger National Park, one of the world’s most biodiverse wildlife regions. Enjoy guided wildlife sightings along the way, then settle into one of Kruger’s famous Rest Camps for a night inside the park—listening to hyenas call and birdsong echo through the evening.

  • Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Meals not included: NA

  • Lodging: Kruger National Park

Day 6: Full-Day Kruger Safari + Second Night in the Park

Sat 8 May 2027
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Full-Day Kruger Safari + Second Night in the Park

Spend a full day exploring Kruger’s vast landscapes. Our guide will help us spot extraordinary wildlife—from herds of elephants and Cape buffalo to colorful birds and elusive predators. After an exhilarating day, return to your Rest Camp for another night immersed in the sounds of the wild.

  • Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Meals not included: NA

  • Lodging: Kruger National Park

Day 7: Final Kruger Game Drive + Return to Hoedspruit

Sun 9 May 2027
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Final Kruger Game Drive + Return to Hoedspruit

Savor every moment of the morning game drive as you exit the park, keeping your eyes open for final magical sightings. Back in Hoedspruit, enjoy a slower-paced afternoon: relax at the lodge, take a nap, or simply unwind with a sundowner overlooking the bush.

  • Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Meal not included:NA

  • Lodging: Rafiki Bush Lodge

Day 8: Elephant Encounter + Relaxation Day

Mon 10 May 2027
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Elephant Encounter + Relaxation Day

Begin the morning connecting with rescued elephants in a meaningful, ethical encounter that supports conservation. Afterwards, enjoy a restorative day: explore the wildlife estate, read, journal, lounge by the pool, or enjoy a private in-room massage (included).

In the evening, share a casual night of games and hanging out.

  • Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Meals not included: NA

  • Lodging: Rafiki Bush Lodge

Day 9: Morning Game Drive + Sunset River Cruise

Mon 11 May 2027
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Morning Game Drive + Sunset River Cruise

Start the day with another game drive through the private reserve. In the afternoon, trade the adventure of the bush for shimmering water as you board a private sunset river cruise, looking for hippos, crocodiles, and vibrant birdlife in the 3rd largest canyon in the world.

  • Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Meals not included: NA

  • Lodging: Rafiki Bush Lodge

Day 10: Guided Bush Walk + Game Drive + Farewell Celebration

Tues 12 May 2027
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Guided Bush Walk + Game Drive + Farewell Celebration

Experience the bush from a new perspective on a guided walking safari, learning to read tracks, understand animal behavior, and observe the ecosystem up close. Later, enjoy one final game drive and close out the night with a final  farewell celebration.

  • Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Meals not included: NA

  • Lodging: Rafiki Bush Lodge

Day 11: DEPARTURE DAY

Wed 13 May 2027
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Final Morning in the Bush + Return to Johannesburg

Enjoy a final sunrise in the bush before departing Hoedspruit and returning to Johannesburg for evening flights home—your heart full and your circle of adventure friends expanded. Our flight will arrive in Johannesburg between 1pm and 3:30pm. Please plan departure flights from JNB in the evening.

  • Meals included: Breakfast 

  • Meals not included: NA

WHAT IS INCLUDED

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Inclusions

  • 10 nights accommodations (Johannesburg + Hoedspruit+ Kruger National Park)

  • 8 game drives on a private reserve

  • 4 games drives in Kruger National Park

  • Guided Big Five bush walk

  • Elephant encounter

  • Blyde River Canyon boat cruise

  • In-room massage

  • All meals

  • All ground transportation within South Africa

  • Pre-trip support + planning call

  • Expert safari guides + AdventurUs Women trip leader

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Exclusions

  • International flights to/from Johannesburg (JNB)

  • Required travel/medical insurance

  • Alcoholic beverages

  • Gratuities for guides & lodge staff

  • Souvenirs, personal spending, or optional add-ons

  • Anything not mentioned in the included section

More Info

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THIS TRIP IS RIGHT FOR YOU IF...

  • You’re looking for a women-centered  adventure where inclusivity and belonging are built into the experience.

  • You love wildlife and want meaningful, ethical encounters.

  • You enjoy amazing food (we have a private chef!), time outdoors, and want an authentic South African experience — with zero logistics stress.

  • You prefer a small group with personalized attention, community centered slow travel, and the chance to explore one of the most beautiful countries in the world with like-minded travelers.

  • You are looking to become part of a community that provides affirming and supportive spaces to learn and explore in the outdoors.

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WHERE YOU WILL STAY

We would like to introduce you to our favorite Hoedspruit bush lodge located in a private and gated wildlife estate, Rafiki Bush Lodge.

The laid back atmosphere and surrounding bushveld makes it the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city and a perfect stopover to fill days during your Bush holiday. Right in the heart of the Greater Kruger area, it's central location is perfect to use as a base to explore the Lowveld and surroundings. Welcome to Big 5 Country!

Located within the Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate, Rafiki is home to all the usual suspects: wildlife, beautiful sunsets, majestic mountain views and rare sightings of leopards. Rafiki means "friend" in Swahili - and that's what you are, a friend, not just a guest.  This lodge is owned by Maria and Reinhardt. Maria runs the lodge and operations, while Reinhardt guides in the bush. His extensive knowledge and conservation mind set make him an amazing guide on our journey. 

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DIFFICULTY: LEVEL 1 OUT OF 5 (EASY)

  • Activity Times: 1 - 3 hours 

  • Distance/Elevation: Hiking mileage 1- 2 miles with modest elevation gain - less than 200  ft

  • Terrain: May include flat and uneven ground.

  • Activities Include: Hiking, wildlife viewing, photography, bird watching, extended time in a 4x4 game vehicle

Preparation:  Ideal for newer adventurers or those just looking for fun and good conversation. Suitable for most fitness levels. People who get car sick or motion sickness may have a hard time in the safari vehicle.

ABOUT US

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THE ADVENTURUS DIFFERENCE

AdventurUs is a woman & LGBTQ+ owned company and as such, we are committed to creating inclusive, welcoming spaces for all women and our friends of all gender identities and expressions, who are seeking a women-centered space.

All trips take into consideration; traveling as a woman and as part of the LGBTQ+ community, identifying locations and partners that also support our community, and are inclusive to all travelers.

Our life-changing adventure travel, camps, and events focus on outdoor skill development, community building, and fostering fun and friendship. AdventurUs Trip Leaders are all professional guides and have Wilderness First Responder certificates.

We welcome travelers of all backgrounds, race, ages, sizes, and experience levels, offering a range of activities.

When you travel with us, not only are you getting an amazing, life-changing trip experience, you’re getting a partner in adventure.

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OUR CULTURE AND VALUES

  • Build Community – Foster joy, laughter, and authentic connections.

  • Embrace Authenticity – Show up as ourselves, with no pressure to perform.

  • Seek Adventure – Explore boldly, from local trails to global destinations.

  • Support Women – Share knowledge, inspire confidence, and uplift each other.

  • Celebrate Inclusivity – Create affirming, welcoming spaces for all.

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PROVIDING A WELCOMING SPACE FOR ALL

AdventurUs is committed to creating inclusive and welcoming spaces. We have no room in our packs for discrimination or disrespect of any kind. We value diversity and respect for all humans, wildlife, and land and expect our travelers to do the same. When planning travel with AdventurUs, you are committing to Leave No Trace principles and to following all rules, regulations, and customs of the places we visit while honoring the local culture. Any traveler who is not adhering to this policy is subject to non-refundable cancellation at any point.

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WHY WE HAVE "FLAGGED" THIS TRIP 🏳️‍🌈 🏳️‍⚧️

Why have we identified this trip with 🏳️‍🌈 🏳️‍⚧️? . We know that traveling as part of the LGBTQ+ community can at times be stressful. On our flagged trips we have done additional work up front to ensure a welcoming experience for all and to answer some of the questions you may have when considering a trip. We have created a trip specific travel guide to help travelers make an informed decision if the trip is right for them, and we share additional resources specific to helping prepare for travel as a LGBTQ+ traveler.

Please note: Adventure Travel is exactly that... an adventure. The outdoors can be unpredictable, so our daily schedule may change as needed. If we adjust the plan, it’s always with your safety, comfort, and overall adventure experience in mind. We stay flexible so you can fully enjoy the journey.

WOMEN-LED

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MEET THE WOMEN LEADING YOUR TRIP

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YOUR TRIP LEADER

All trips have at least one AdventurUs trip leader in addition to our local guides! Our trip leaders are carefully chosen because they embody the heart of who we are and are passionate about getting women outdoors. They are also certified Wilderness First Responders.

Your Trip Leader for this adventure is:
Saveria Tilden

Chief Adventure Officer, Founder, Sparkle Maker at AdventurUs! Saveria (she/her) has a passion for getting women outdoors. She believes that adventure is defined differently by each individual, and that there is adventure in all of “Us”, which is the inspiration behind the name, AdventurUs. Too often there are barriers that keep women from getting outdoors and Saveria wants to remove these barriers. 

Saveria has been an educator, coach, and guide in a variety of fields for over 30 years. Over the last decade Saveria has focused on outdoor education, teaching outdoor courses and leading trips for the Sierra Club. She also worked for REI Outdoor School as an instructor, teaching a variety of classes including kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, biking, rock climbing, navigation, hiking, backpacking, and more. Saveria is a licensed guide, certified as a Wilderness First Responder, and a Leave No Trace Master Educator. She lives in Bend, OR with her partner and their adventure pups.

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