Mozambique & Kruger - Beach & Bush

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 village and our guides interpret the history, culture and traditions of the Zulu people.

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.

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 3 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).

Maputo, formerly known as Lourenço Marques. Situated on a natural harbour, Maputo 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).

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).

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.

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.

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 camp fire on our final evening in the tranquil African wilderness.

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.