5 Day Shalati Train & Tented Safari

4 Nights / 5 Days

OR Tambo Johannesburg

Kruger National Park

Min Age: 5 Years

Children Under 11 Less 50%

From R55 000 Per Person

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Balule Game Reserve

About This Tour:

Embark on an extraordinary safari journey that seamlessly merges opulence with the raw beauty of South Africa's landscapes. This exclusive package invites you to delve into the epitome of luxury while immersing yourself in the awe-inspiring wilderness.

First stop, the enchanting Shalati Train Hotel nestled within the iconic Kruger National Park. Here, history meets luxury as guests are welcomed aboard a meticulously restored train carriage, reminiscent of a bygone era. Experience the splendor of panoramic bushveld views from the comfort of your lavishly appointed suite, where modern amenities harmonize with old-world charm.

Next, venture into the heart of adventure at Imagine Africa Luxury Tented Camp, nestled within the Balule Game Reserve. Here, amidst the untamed wilderness, guests are treated to an unparalleled safari experience. Each tent is a sanctuary of indulgence, boasting lavish furnishings and expansive interiors designed to evoke tranquility and luxury amidst the rugged terrain.

From the timeless elegance of the Shalati Train Hotel to the immersive luxury of Imagine Africa Luxury Tented Camp, this safari package promises a journey of unparalleled comfort and adventure amidst South Africa's stunning wildlife-rich landscapes.

Includes

All Transfers
2 Nights Accommodation at Shalati Train
2 Nights Accommodation Imagine Africa
Game Drives in Kruger National Park & Bulule
Conservation / Entrance Fees
Professional Guide
Panorama Route
Local Beverages
4 x Dinner
4 x Breakfast
4 x Lunch

Excludes

All Premium Drinks
Flights
Items Of A Personal Nature

Day 1:
Johannesburg - Kruger National Park

FThis morning you will be collected from your hotel or OR Tambo Airport by your driver and transferred through to Mbombela to meet up with your guide. We make our way through to the Kruger National Park and enjoy an afternoon game drive to Skukuza and the Shalati Train Hotel. Check in and enjoy two days of relaxation and game drives morning and afternoon. You can fly directly to Skukuza Airport should you wish to do so and we meet you off your flight and we do an afternoon game drive before check in at the Shalati Train Hotel.

Day 2:

Kruger National Park

As the sun rises, you climb into an open-air safari vehicle with an experienced guide, ready to witness nature's wonders. Return to the hotel for a refreshing swim or read a book on the deck. As the sun sets for another game drive, the golden hues of the setting sun cast a mesmerizing glow over the vast landscape. With your knowledgeable guide, you navigate through the rugged terrain, anticipating the wildlife that may emerge from the shadows. Return to the hotel for dinner, where the aroma of delicious cuisine fills the air, reminding you of the rich flavors to come.

Day 3:

Panorama Route - Balule Game Reserve

After breakfast we depart from Skukuza and make our way out of the park and on towards the Panorama Route travelling through the towns of Hazyview and Graskop as we start at Gods Window. We make our way to the Berlin Falls and then drive along the canyon stopping off at the Three Rondavels. Lunch can be enjoyed along the way or once we arrive at the lodge. We hope to arrive by 15h00pm at Imagine Africa’s tented camp in time for High Tea. A late afternoon/sunset drive may be experience after which it is time for dinner in the Boma.

Day 4:

Balule Game Reserve

An early morning game drive, you witness the sunrise over Africa. The safari vehicle rumbles, and you're excited to witness incredible wildlife encounters in their natural habitat. Returning to camp for breakfast, you're fueled by freshly brewed coffee and hearty meals. In the afternoon, you're ready to explore, hoping to encounter majestic elephants, graceful giraffes, or even big cats. Returning to camp for dinner, you unwind under the starry African sky and enjoy the sounds of the wilderness.

Day 5:

Balule Game Reserve - Johannesburg

This is the last day of your safari so you may either enjoy another sunrise on board your open safari vehicle before breakfast or you may prefer to take it easy and sleep in for a bit. We depart from the lodge after breakfast and make our way out of the game reserve and on towards Johannesburg arriving back at OR Tambo or Hotel by 18h00pm. Should you prefer to fly back to Johannesburg this may be arranged from Eastgate Airport.

View Full Itinerary

Accommodation availability is contingent upon its availability at the time of booking.

Shalati Train Hotel offers opulent accommodation with an elevated perspective – a reminder of the 1920’s rail safari, with a contemporary interpretation reflective of the marvel of African design. arge, glass-walled train suites allow for infinite views along the length of the majestic Sabie River, while the style of the train is a celebration of African design in collaboration with local art and crafting skills. High above the riverbanks, aligned with the floor level of the train, lies our bespoke pool and deck, offering a swimming vista unlike any other – with crocodile, hippos, buffaloes and elephants greeting guests metres below!

The luxury tented camp boasts six fully furnished spacious, elevated and air-conditioned canvas tents accommodating 2 people each (maximum 10 people in camp) that provide all the goodness and simplicity of contemporary living in a 55 square metre area, without detracting from the majestic splendor of the surrounding African wilderness. Comfortable seating inside and coffee/tea/desk station as well as an additional private patio outside allows for uninterrupted bliss and memorable intimate conversations. The availability of complimentary high speed hotel WiFi internet is also extended to all rooms. Each tent boasts a spacious private deck (approx. 25 square metre area) and an unrestricted private view of the northern Drakensberg mountains, allowing you to laze and watch the wildlife follow the sunset. A rustic, yet contemporary outdoor shower and spacious bath complement a seamless integration into nature. On entrance to the safari tent you are welcomed by two 3/4 extra length beds (which can be converted into a super king on request) and ensuite bathroom facilities (including inside shower and toilet).

* Should imagine Africa be fully booked you will be accommodated at its sister lodge Sausage tree tented lodge.

A small, intimate, luxury tented camp in the Greater Kruger National Park where the Big 5 still roam freely. The Olifants River flows all year round through the reserve with healthy populations of hippo and crocodile, as well as a huge diversity of bird species including the elusive Pels Fishing Owl.

The luxury, African-styled Safari tents are comfortably furnished with bathrooms en-suite, featuring a freestanding bath and an outside shower on a raised base for maximizing your views of the bush and the mountains. Air conditioning, fan, and tea and coffee facilities make it a definitive ‘glamping’ experience with the advantage that staying in a tented camp has, bringing the sounds of nature so much closer to you.

Shalati Train Hotel
Shalati Train Hotel is a unique accommodation experience that combines the luxury of a hotel with the thrill of staying on a train. Located in the heart of the iconic Kruger National Park, this one-of-a-kind establishment offers guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty and wildlife of the African bush while enjoying all the comforts of a modern hotel.

Imagine Africa Tented Camp

Imagine Africa Tented Lodge is a luxurious safari retreat nestled in the heart of the Balule Game Reserve, offering guests an unparalleled experience of the African wilderness. With its intimate setting and breathtaking views, the camp provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature and immerse oneself in the untamed beauty of the African bush.

Panorama Route Highlights

This scenic road trip takes you through some of the country's most stunning landscapes, offering panoramic views that will leave you in awe. Gods Window, aptly named for its awe-inspiring vistas, offers sweeping views of the Lowveld and the Blyde River Canyon, while Berlin Falls cascades down in a mesmerizing display of natural beauty. And then there are the Three Rondavels, towering rock formations that resemble traditional African huts, standing proudly against the backdrop of the Drakensberg Mountains.

Open Vehicle Game Drives

Open Vehicle Game Drives offer visitors the chance to explore the park's diverse wildlife in a unique and thrilling way. These game drives, conducted in open vehicles, provide a more intimate and immersive experience compared to traditional safari tours. With the wind in your hair and the sounds of the African bush surrounding you, you'll have a front-row seat to observe some of Africa's most iconic animals in their natural habitat.

Transfers to and from Kruger National Park are included in the package. 2–4 guests will be transferred with our partner shuttle, and 5+ guests will be transferred on Nhongo Safaris Private Bus. Our partner shuttle is equipped with modern amenities, while the Nhongo Safaris Private Bus offers ample space for larger groups, ensuring a pleasant travel experience for all guests.
Traveling by road from Johannesburg takes approx. 5–6 hours to Kruger Gate. It is also possible to fly; you can fly to Nelspruit (MQP) or Skukuza (SZK).
You can also request a custom itinerary
Plan ahead, please! Very few of our safaris through the Kruger National Park are available on short notice.
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