Natal, Mozambique & Kruger Park Cabin Safari

This safari departs from Johannesburg with  your first destinationbeen  the Mkuzi Game Reserve, home to the endangered black rhino.

We explore the shores of Kosi Bay, consisting of fertile estuaries, forests, lakes and sandy beaches. Depending on what time of year, you have the opportunity to see the the shy sea turtle lay their eggs on the beaches during the dark of night.

We then head to the Kingdom of Swaziland, steeped in history before visiting the colourful craft markets in Maputo, Mozambique. Travelling further North to the sunny beaches of Inhambane, we spend three days under the palm trees, exploring the ocean in dhows or visiting the local heritage sites.

We journey back South to the Kruger Park via Bilene, a lagoon that  allows you the option of snorkelling and scuba diving. The Kruger Park is big game country, and you have the chance to spot one of the Big 5 game during a game drive.

The tour ends in Johannesburg.

Day 1 - 2: JOHANNESBURG to ZULULAND - SOUTH AFRICA [chalet / tented lodge Bx1 Lx2 Dx2]

(B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Departing from Johannesburg at 06:30am we travel into the heart of KwaZulu Natal where we will stay in the Mkuzi Game Reserve, a last safe haven for the endangered Black Rhino. We explore the reserve on game drives and visit a hide overlooking one of the waterholes to watch the game come down to drink. A local guide will lead us on a walk in the neighbouring village where we meet local Zulu people and are introduced to their culture and customs.

Day 3 - 5: KOSI BAY - SOUTH AFRICA [chalets Bx3 Lx3 Dx2]

Kosi Bay Nature Reserve covers a region of fertile estuary, mangroves, dune forest and lakes, which we explore on foot and by boat. We visit Bunga neck (watch Leatherback turtles laying eggs in season; November - January) and the Kosi Bay river mouth to snorkel and watch the local fisherman in the estuary.

Day 6: HLANE GAME RESERVE - SWAZILAND [chalet BLD]

Our camp in Hlane Game Reserve, Swaziland, is surrounded by beautiful African bushveld. We'll take a game walk with a local ranger looking for rhino, elephant and fantastic bird life.

Day 7: MAPUTO - MOZAMBIQUE [chalet BL-]

We enter Moçambique at the Namaacha border post and travel to Maputo. Formerly known as Lourenço Marques - Portuguese and African cultures meet in an exquisite blend of seafood and vibrant life. Sample the excellent seafood in a local restaurant (own expense).

Day 8 - 10: INHAMBANE - MOZAMBIQUE [casitas BLD]

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, before moving to Praia de Barra to our casitas under the palms next to the beach. Dhow rides and scuba diving on coral reefs are available (own expense)

Day 11: BILENE - MOZAMBIQUE [casitas BLD]

We turn south along the coast to the town of Bilene situated on the shores of the Uembje lagoon. The lagoon is 8km wide and 27km long with clear water and white, sandy beaches. We spend the afternoon exploring the lagoon with options of kayaking and snorkeling (own expense), and swimming in the shallow, calm waters.

Day 12 - 13: KRUGER NATIONAL PARK - SOUTH AFRICA [chalet BLD]

We enter Kruger National Park, South Africa, and visit big game country! Exciting game drives to spot lions, giraffe and the mighty elephant. Relaxing in the tranquil bush we experience a land forgotten by time, a true African wilderness.

Day 14: JOHANNESBURG - MOZAMBIQUE [- B - -]

After an early morning game drive we return to Johannesburg in the evening, sun-tanned, laid-back and ready to rejoin life. The Natal, Mozambique & Kruger Park Cabin Safari ends here.

Please Note:

The fish traps at Kosi Bay mouth are cleared each day, by the local community. Only larger fish are caught as they cannot leave the estuary with the outgoing tide. This sustainable use of natural resources is a reminder to all of us of the simple ways that we can live in a more ecologically friendly way.