14 Day South Africa and Mozambique Bush and Beach Safari
Countries: South Africa , Mozambique
Destinations: Kwazulu-Natal - Elephant Coast , Southern Coast Mozambique , Inhambane , Kruger Park & Surrounding Area
Group Size: 12
Duration (days): 14
Number of Adults: 12
Number of Children: 0
From the culture of the Zulu nation to the Portuguese and Arab influences in the food and architecture of Mozambique. Experience everything from beaches and excellent diving to big game viewing and bush walks with a local ranger. The accommodation in Mozambique is simple and the roads can be slow. Local facilities are limited so most of the meals are prepared by the Sunway crew. Malaria prophylactics are recommended. This is an easy paced, relaxing safari for those looking for a different experience in Southern Africa.
Itinerary Outline
| Day | Location | Accommodation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kwazulu-Natal - Elephant Coast | Zululand Lodge |
| 2 | Kwazulu-Natal - Elephant Coast | Zululand Lodge |
| 3 | Kwazulu-Natal - Elephant Coast | Zululand Lodge |
| 4 | Kwazulu-Natal - Elephant Coast | Kosi Bay Lodge |
| 5 | Southern Coast Mozambique | Planet Scuba Guesthouse |
| 6 | Southern Coast Mozambique | Planet Scuba Guesthouse |
| 7 | Southern Coast Mozambique | City Lodge Hotel Maputo |
| 8 | Inhambane | The Bay View Lodge |
| 9 | Inhambane | The Bay View Lodge |
| 10 | Southern Coast Mozambique | East Africa Safaris |
| 11 | Kruger Park & Surrounding Area | Letaba Rest Camp |
| 12 | Kruger Park & Surrounding Area | Letaba Rest Camp |
| 13 | Kruger Park & Surrounding Area | Makuwa Safari Lodge |
| 14 | Day of Departure |
Day 1 - 3 : Kwazulu-Natal - Elephant Coast
Zululand, home of the nation forged by King Shaka Zulu - stretches from the warm Indian Ocean, across the rolling green hills to the Drakensberg Mountains. We depart Johannesburg at 06:30am, travelling across the Highveld before descending into the heart of KwaZulu Natal known for its rich culture and spectacular wildlife. Our lodge for the next 3 nights is situated on a private nature reserve. We explore the natural serenity of the bush on a morning walk followed by an exciting afternoon game drive in Mkuzi Game Reserve. Mkuzi plays a key role in the preservation of the endangered black and white rhino and we look forward to watching from a hide overlooking a waterhole, as the animals quench their thirst. On the third day we explore Hluhluwe Game Reserve, and in the afternoon get to know the people of the area as we visit a local Zulu community and our guides interpret the history, culture and traditions of the modern Zulu people.
South Africa
For a varied, diverse, exciting and fulfilling holiday, one would be hard pressed to find a country in Africa, or the world, which offers more. South Africa has it all, including wildlife, mountains, deserts, beaches, forests, numerous cultures, first world cities, untouched landscapes, casinos, amusement parks, exciting activities, excellent roads and infrastructure, off road 4 x 4 routes, fantastic food, good wine, great sports stadiums, incredible people and a triumphant history.
Kwazulu-Natal - Elephant Coast
KwaZulu-Natal's Elephant Coast is an eco-tourism destination in every sense of the word. It's renowned for its wetland and wildlife conservation efforts, both of which are major tourism drawcards.
It offers a host of eco-oriented pursuits, of which Big 5 game viewing, hikes and walks, scuba diving, and sea turtle tracking are the most popular.
The Elephant Coast, KwaZulu-Natal houses two of South Africa's greatest natural institutions, the World Heritage Site iSimangaliso Wetland Park and the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, made famous for its rhino preservation efforts.
iSimangaliso stretches for 220 km from Lake St Lucia to the Mozambique border. It is dominated by Lake St Lucia and the St Lucia estuary with its network of coastal lakes, dunes, subtropical forests, swamps and wetland systems that provide a haven for indigenous flora and fauna, especially bird life.
The park features several reserves, including the St Lucia Game Reserve, St Lucia Marine Reserve, the Sodwana Bay National Park, Maputaland Marine Reserve, False Bay Park and Mkuze Game Reserve, all of which promise exciting game viewing.
There are countless ways to explore iSimangaliso, including hiking, walking, forest and dune trails, boat cruises, canoeing and scuba diving the spectacular coral reefs at Sodwana Bay.
Inland, the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park is a conservation marvel renowned for its efforts to save the white rhino from extinction. Today it is home to more than 1 000 white rhino, lion, elephant, buffalo and leopard, providing an authentic Big 5 African safari experience.
The Elephant Coast's magnificent beaches are another major attraction, not only to visitors from around the world, but also to hordes of endangered loggerhead and leatherback turtles that lay their eggs in the dunes here between November and January.
Zululand Lodge
Watch the sunset over the African bush from our deck. Enjoy a bush walk along the banks of the Msineni River, spend time bird watching in the riverene forest or enjoy the wildlife in one of the surrounding big five game reserves.
Zululand Lodge is located on a private wildlife concession bordering Phinda Game Reserve and offers tented, en-suite accommodation for up to 18 guests. Situated close to Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, iSimangaliso Wetland Park and the coastal town of St Lucia.
Day 4 : Kwazulu-Natal - Elephant Coast
Kosi Bay Nature Reserve covers a region of fertile estuaries, mangroves, dune forest and tidal lakes. This afternoon we walk down to the lake to explore this amazing eco-system by boat and the following morning we take a 4WD transfer to the Kosi estuary mouth. A special feature of the Kosi Bay estuary is the traditional practice of subsistence tidal trap fishing. We have time to swim, walk on the beach or snorkel the shallow reefs in the estuary mouth.
Kosi Bay Lodge
Kosi Forest Lodge is an intimate lodge situated under a canopy of magnificent trees within a tranquil sand forest alongside the Kosi Lakes System, an unspoilt wilderness area that is part of the iSimangaliso World Heritage Park. This 20 bed lodge offers comfortable accommodation in wooden, canvas & thatch cabins, great home cooking and caters for a host of estuarine, beach and wilderness activities. Glamping at its best.
A lovely sweeping pool overlooks Lake Shengeza where one can relax on the viewing deck in the shade of Umdoni trees while watching hippos & flamingoes in the lake.
Daily guided canoe trips and walks through ancient Raphia Palm Forests are offered at no additional cost. Additional activities are a boat trip exploring this unique system of lakes and channels where one can see hippo, crocodile, rare birds like the Pels Fishing Owl and Palm Nut Vulture, included in this day trip is a picnic on the unspoilt shores of Bhanga Nek beach. Another additional activity is to join a 4x4 excursion to Kosi Bay Mouth viewing ancient Thonga Fish Traps and exceptional snorkeling in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean.
Discover one of South Africa’s best ecotourist destinations.
Day 5 - 6 : Southern Coast Mozambique
Ponta do Ouro is the ocean lover’s mecca of Southern Mozambique. A highlight of this safari is the opportunity to join a local dolphin research team on ocean safaris. Research since the early 1990s indicates that there are approximately 400 individual dolphins moving through the Ponta do Ouro area, of which about 150 are resident. We have 2 boat launches planned which gives us a chance to snorkel on the shallow reefs, view dolphins and whales from the boat, and hopefully swim with dolphins if their activity at the time permits us to enter the water. A wild dolphin encounter is an extraordinary wildlife experience. (Should weather prevent a boat launch then a portion of your local payment will be refunded to you pro rata).
Mozambique
Azure waters, endless white beaches, silent sailing dhows, wonderful hospitality, tropical islands, luxury retreats, gorgeous coral. Need we go on?
Mozambique is an excellent destination in its own right, but is even more appealling as a beach add-on to an African wildlife safari. After spending time exploring the wild interior, with early morning walks, late night camp fires and thrilling game viewing, it is marvellous to stretch out on the sands of a white beach, with a cool drink with a little umbrella, and dark glasses perched on the nose, listening to nothing but the sound of the sea.
The coastline of Mozambique offers mile upon mile of stunning sand and turquoise water, with tropical islands beckoning you to remain and relax.
With its Portuguese history, and availability of scrumptious seafood, prepare yourselves for an absolute feast when journeying through Mozambique, and get your peri-peri taste buds ready!
Southern Coast Mozambique
The Souithern Coast of Mozambique is between the capital city of Maputo and the Kosi Bay/South Africa border. Warmed by the Indian Ocean current moving south from the equator, the country’s clear waters and subtropical climate provides travellers with an enticing welcoming beachside escape.
Mozambique enjoys a tropical climate, with plenty of sunshine throughout the year. The average temperature is around 28°C and the weather along the coast is sunny and warm, even in mid-Winter. The country has two seasons; a wet season (from October to March) and a dry season (from April to September) – with very little variation in temperatures between the two.
Planet Scuba Guesthouse
Planet Scuba Guest house is perfectly situated in the centre of Ponta Do Ouro, Mozambique, is a 2 minute walk from the beach and close to Gozo Azul charters, restaurants and bars. Planet Scuba Guest house offers guests a comfortable stay in double, twin or triple bedrooms which are air-conditioned with en-suite bathrooms with breakfast included at the onsite restaurant and bar.
Wi-fi internet access is available and rooms are serviced daily.
Each morning guests can enjoy breakfast overlooking the ocean and Planet Scuba Guest house’s restaurant and bar offer fantastic Mozambican style meals and a range of drinks and cheeky cocktails at the bar.
Soak up the Mozambican sunshine on a sun-lounger next to the pool or take a dip in the pool located on the property.
The property has free onsite parking and is accessible via 2X4 high clearance vehicles.
Day 7 : Southern Coast Mozambique
Maputo, formerly known as Lourenço Marques is situated on a natural harbour and is the economic hub of Mozambique. Once referred to as the “African Riviera”, Portuguese and African cultures meet in an exquisite blend of seafood and vibrant life. Sample the excellent seafood in a local restaurant (own expense).
City Lodge Hotel Maputo
The 148-room City Lodge Hotel Maputo provides quality hotel accommodation to Mozambique’s capital city.
The hotel is ideally located within easy reach of the beautiful Costa do Sol beach, CBD, airport, a private hospital, the university and various other entertainment and shopping attractions.
All feature en suite bathrooms with showers (selected rooms have baths). One in 50 rooms has been specially designed to cater for the needs of physically disabled guests. The hotel offers three boardrooms for meetings; uncapped WiFi; free and secure undercover parking; swimming pool; sundowner bar; and #Café restaurant serving Full English and Continental breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.
This new hotel is the perfect place to start and end each day while visiting Maputo for business or leisure.
Day 8 - 9 : Inhambane
Travelling north along the Indian Ocean coastline, we drive through mango and cashew nut plantations en-route to the town of Inhambane. Arab influences are strong in Inhambane dating back to when slaves, ivory, gold and spices were traded. Explore Inhambane and its 200 year old cathedral and we visit the enchanting fresh produce market before moving to Praia de Barra. Sit back, relax and enjoy the warm sea and expansive white beaches. For the more energetic, there are optional activities such as dhow rides, scuba diving, fishing and surfing (own expense).
Inhambane
Explore the enchanting coastline of Inhambane, where azure waters gently kiss pristine sandy shores framed by swaying palms. Nestled along the eastern coast of Mozambique, Inhambane offers a haven for beach lovers and adventurers alike. Discover secluded coves, vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, and the warm hospitality of local communities. Whether you're diving into crystal-clear waters, strolling along endless beaches, or unwinding under the African sun, Inhambane promises an unforgettable coastal escape.
The Bay View Lodge
Bay View Lodge is in Barra (Praia da Barra), on the north-eastern tip of the beautiful Barra peninsula, with an estuary behind, and a long sandy beach in front of the lodge. It is a place to leave your stress behind, explore the underwater wonderland on your doorstep and enjoy the night sky, far away from bright city lights.
All houses are equipped for self-catering, but if the idea of cooking is just too much, well …. welcome to enjoy meals in our pub/restaurant The Green Turtle or visit several other little pubs/restaurants in the area, within easy walking distance of the lodge. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served daily and kids are very welcome at all restaurants in the area.
There are lots of activities in the area, some offered by third parties – fishing, diving, snorkelling, markets, birding, photography, etc. etc.
We are approximately 485km north of Maputo, 25km from Inhambane town, and 15km from Tofo, in Inhambane Province, Mozambique. All roads leading to the lodge are tarred, except for the last 4km, which is a well maintained gravel road. It has been hard packed with coral sand, making it easy to reach us with a normal passenger vehicle, without any difficulty. No 4×4 vehicle is needed but is good to have if you want to explore off the beaten track.
Day 10 : Southern Coast Mozambique
We turn south along the coast to a secluded fishing lodge on the beach north of Xai-Xai. The lodge is perched on the coastal dunes with a magnificent view of the surrounding natural bush and expansive beach. Low tide exposes a long rocky reef parallel to the beach, which creates a shallow, calm pool ideal for snorkelling and swimming. For our last night on the beach we enjoy a fish braai (barbeque) dinner at the lodge restaurant overlooking the warm Indian Ocean.
East Africa Safaris
East Africa Safaris is situated on the scenic east coast of Mozambique, approximately 250 Km north of Maputo. The resort is situated amongst a combination of coastal dunes and inland lakes, offering unique opportunities for bird watching, quad biking, snorkeling, swimming and spear fishing.
During the winter months East Africa Safaris is an ideal location for whale watching. The central location of the resort also makes it an ideal starting point for excursions in the area.
Day 11 - 12 : Kruger Park & Surrounding Area
Leaving the Indian Ocean coast, we travel through the Limpopo Transfrontier Park and enter Kruger National Park, South Africa. An icon of nature conservation, Kruger is big game country! As we make our way to our camp, we enjoy an exciting game drive and hope to spot lions, giraffe and elephant among others.
Kruger Park & Surrounding Area
About a 6 hour drive, or a 1 hour flight, from Johannesburg, Kruger National Park is South Africa's largest and most famous national park. With nearly 2 million hectares, and an enormous variety of species (336 trees, 49 fish, 34 amphibians, 114 reptiles, 507 birds and 147 mammals), you can ensconce yourself in Africa's wilderness with ease. Bordering the park to the west is a number of private game reserves, with luxury lodges and exceptional game viewing. Inside the main park, visitors can drive themselves, and have access to remarkably low priced accommodation options.
Letaba Rest Camp
The idyllic Letaba Rest Camp is situated on a sweeping bend of the Letaba River, midway between the southern and northern boundaries of the Kruger National Park. The name means “river of sand”, and the sandy riverbed is an excellent location for game viewing, particularly elephant, which thrive in the area. Letaba is a green oasis in the surrounding mopane veld, and remains a firm favourite with visitors. At night the stars overlook a symphony of sounds. Owls, nightjars, frogs, fruit bats, crickets and cicadas all vie to be heard, until the lion roars, then all are silent.
Day 13 : Kruger Park & Surrounding Area
The following morning we are up early and we spend the day exploring the national park before we leave and head to our private game lodge. Relax around the pool or the campfire on our final evening in the tranquil African wilderness.
Makuwa Safari Lodge
Makuwa Safari Lodge is a bushveld retreat located in the Greater Kruger area on a private game reserve that bustles with buffalo, plains game and bird activity. Idyllic accommodation in whitewashed houses with thatched roofs and broad patios offers sweeping views of the wilderness and the distant Drakensberg Mountains. Manicured lawns dotted with acacia, marula and fig trees surround the lodge, while all around the property untouched bushveld provides a perfect habitat for a wealth of predators, mammals and birdlife.
Day 14 - Day of Departure
Our final day on tour starts with an exciting game walk. We explore the private game reserve on foot with our rangers. While the opportunity to see big game on foot exists, our guides will also take the time to interpret the tracks and signs of the African bush. We head back to the lodge for brunch before we return to Johannesburg in the evening, sun-tanned, laid-back and ready to re-join life. Tour ends at +/-18:00 at the hotel.