Igniting Soul South Africa
Embark on a South African adventure like no other, where you'll walk in the footsteps of wild elephants and encounter a diverse range of wildlife. Savor the taste of authentic African cuisine, explore the heart of a local village project and join us on a walking safari through stunning wilderness.
Enjoy a peaceful sunset, stargaze under the Milky Way and practice yoga amidst the tranquility of nature. With the freedom to be flexible with the itinerary, relax and unwind at our private lodge or take part in our unforgettable adventures.
Experience the ultimate African vacation with us.
Itinerary
Day 1
9 am departure from Johannesburg airport for our drive to Ngama Lodge, our Safari home. We’ll stop for lunch along the way and check in late in the afternoon. As the sun sets, we’ll enjoy a “sundowner” drink on the deck, followed by a welcome dinner under the stars.
(Note: If you are traveling across time zones, we highly recommend arriving in South Africa a day or two early.)
Day 2
We’ll make it a slow start to the day, with yoga for the early risers, or a chance to sleep in. After a decadent breakfast we’ll have a relaxing day where we’ll pamper ourselves and embark on our spiritual journey. Enjoy a complimentary 30-minute massage, and have a private meeting with Jacquie to balance your chakras, set your intentions and create your personal mantra for our Soul Safari experience. In the late afternoon, we’ll head out to walk among the zebras, giraffes and antelope. We’ll enjoy another al fresco dining experience and after dinner Karen will lead us in a session that will assist us in deepening the intentions we have set.
Day 3
Before the birds start their dawn chorus we’ll depart for Kruger National Park. This full day of adventure will be our first opportunity to see Africa’s iconic Big Five animals: leopard, lion, elephant, rhino and buffalo. We’ll return to the Lodge for dinner, and after dinner Karen will lead us in a fireside meditation journey.
Day 4
Today we’ll be on top of the world! We’ll drive to the top of Mariepskop, one of the highest peaks in the northern Drakensberg, for the spectacular views of the Blyde River Canyon, one of the most beautiful destinations in South Africa. Here, become acquainted with the flora of the Cape Floral Kingdom, the smallest of the world’s 6 Floral Kingdoms, found only in South Africa. We’ll take in the various viewpoints, do a little walking and stop for a guided meditation and a Picnic. When we return to the lodge we’ll have time for a gentle yoga session before dinner. After dinner we’ll explore the African night sky with a passionate local astronomer.
Day 5
We’ll spend the morning at Nourish Eco Village where you can get your hands dirty in the food labyrinth, play with the kids, pet the donkeys and learn about this vibrant Not for Profit and the community they support. We’ll enjoy a traditional lunch prepared by the “Nourish Gogos” (grannies).
We’ll return to Ngama for some free time, with an option to do yoga and a Yoga Nidra (yogic sleep) deep relaxation. After dinner we’ll jump into our game viewers and take a drive to see if we can spot some of the nocturnal animals, like civets, genets, bushbabies and owls.
Day 6
We greet the day with a sunrise walk among the plains game and learn more about the little things. We may see some of the “Small Five”; leopard tortoise, lion ant, rhino beetle, elephant shrew and buffalo weaver. After breakfast we go into town for a fun cooking class. We’ll enjoy the results for lunch. We’ll do a little shopping in town, followed by special sunset drinks and a light dinner of tapas at a unique location with a spectacular view.
Day 7
We start with a yoga session. After breakfast Karen will help us connect with our Power Animals. In the afternoon we’ll deepen our connection with the animal world on a game drive on a private game reserve. We return to the Lodge for dinner, and afterwards we’ll have a guided meditation session by the fire.
Day 8
We’ll make our way all the way down to the floor of the Blyde River Canyon; the world’s biggest green or living canyon. We may see crocs or hippos as we glide across the water on a 90-minute private boat tour. We’ll enjoy brunch under the trees at a local restaurant, and then make our way to Nyani Cultural Village for a singing, drumming and dancing performance and village tour.
Back at the lodge, relax or participate in a yoga session.
Day 9
Our last drive on a private game reserve. We return to the lodge for brunch and some leisure time. Karen will lead us in a group healing ceremony. We’ll circle to share our experiences, and take some time to enjoy our beautiful surroundings. In the afternoon we’ll have a special celebration followed by our farewell dinner as our time together draws to a close.
Day 10
Breakfast and depart to return to Johannesburg airport via the famous Panorama Route with stops to explore stunning attractions like the Three Rondavals, The Pinnacle and Bourke’s Luck Potholes.
Tour Pricing
Tour (excluding international airfare) $3,800 USD (plus 5% Goods and Services Tax)
Prices based on double occupancy with a maximum of 12 passengers
Deposit: $500 and is non-refundable
Payment can be made by personal check to:
Karen Hefner, 7234 SE 18th Avenue, Portland, OR 97202
Or pay with Venmo, Zelle, Stripe, or PayPal (any fees incurred will be passed on the the traveler.)
The Tour Includes:
Return transfer from Johannesburg to Ngama Lodge
9 nights accommodation (exclusive use of Ngama Tented Safari Camp with a minimum of 8 participants)
All meals
Water, coffee, tea, soft drinks, beer, cider, and house wine with meals
African flavored yoga and meditation
30-minute massage
Transportation and admission fees to all attractions
Guided Bushwalks
Big Five Game drives on a private game reserve
The tour does NOT include:
International Flights
Gratuities
Mandatory Personal Medical
Travel and Cancellation insurance
Items of a personal nature
Visa fees for entry to South Africa
Alcoholic beverages not listed in inclusions
Extra Baggage Fees
Tips, laundry, personal snacks, etc.
Meals and snacks at airports
All other expenses/activities not explicitly mentioned in “inclusions” above will be borne as additional expenses by the guests
Hotel accommodations for extra nights. Please contact us in advance so we can advise and assist you.