This affordable Natal, Mozambique & Kruger Park Cabin Safari departs from Johannesburg, traveling into KwaZulu-Natal for game viewing in Mkuzi and the prestigious Hluhluwe Game Reserve.
Then we explore the shores of Kosi Bay and cross into Mozambique and Porta do Ouro, renowned for its beautiful beaches and water-based activities. We make a pit stop in Maputo for a taste of their famous seafood, before heading north to historic Inhambane and the sunny beaches of Praia de Barra.
Lastly, it is off to the world-famous Kruger Park for game drives in search of Africa's Big Five and a multitude of other wildlife and birds. This exciting tour offers culture, history, wildlife, adventure, diving, fishing, walking, and beaches.
Departing from Johannesburg in South Africa at 06:30 am we travel through the Highveld into the heart of the KwaZulu-Natal Province. Our first lodge is located on a private wildlife reserve, close to Hluhluwe Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal. This lush, sub-tropical region is known as Zululand, the homeland of the Zulu tribes. We stay in permanent tents with en suite bathrooms at the comfortable lodge bordering on Phinda Game Reserve.
On the morning of day two, we set off into the wildlife concession on a nature walk along Msineni River - our first introduction to the African bush. Later in the day, we embark on an afternoon game drive in the Mkuzi Game Reserve, an important safe haven for the endangered black and white rhinos. Our game drive takes us to a waterhole to watch wildlife and birds, hopefully including rhinos.
On day three we head to the diverse Hluhluwe Game Reserve, the oldest nature reserve in Africa. This 96 000 ha wilderness area is world-famous for its key role in white rhino conservation and hosts the Big Five (buffalo, elephant, leopard, lion and rhino). Our game drive takes us in search of these iconic mammals, along with an abundance of other animals, including cheetah, zebra, giraffe, blue wildebeest, jackal and numerous antelopes of all kinds.
After our game drive in Hluhluwe–Imfolozi Park we visit a local Zulu village to find out about the rich culture and history of the Zulu nation, formed under the reign of King Shaka Zulu.
Next, we travel to the pristine coastal lake system of Kosi Bay in Maputaland. Kosi Bay Nature Reserve covers a region of fertile estuaries, mangroves, dune forests, and lakes.
This afternoon we embark on a boat excursion to explore this fascinating ecosystem.
We also snorkel at Kosi Bay Rivermouth to spot marine life in the warm waters and watch the local fisherman in the estuary.
Accommodation is in twin-share rooms with en suite bathrooms and a swimming pool.
On day 5 we cross the border into Mozambique and our next destination - Ponta do Ouro, a beach lover's mecca. There will be two boat launches at Ponta do Ouro. You'll have ample time to just relax, enjoy the beach and discover local restaurants.
This quaint, small town with its white beaches, azure waters, dune forests, and open-air market offers a variety of adventures to keep visitors happy. The time we spend here will make allowances for extra activities as well if clients want to book them.
During our stay here we have the opportunity to join a local dolphin research team on ocean safaris which means we have a chance to snorkel in the shallow reefs, view dolphins and whales from the boat, and, hopefully, swim with dolphins if their activity at the time allows. This unique tour will require a local payment at the departure meeting. If bad weather warrants cancellation, catch-up launches will be arranged. Failing this, the guides will do a cash refund for a portion of the local payment on day 7.
What a great opportunity for an experience of a lifetime - this could be the highlight of the tour!
Today we continue into Moçambique and drive to Maputo, the country's capital.
Formerly known as Lourenço Marques - this old port city features a vibrant blend of Portuguese and African cultures.
This evening we enjoy some excellent seafood in a local restaurant (own expense), where you can sample the spicy flavors of Mozambique. Our overnight stay is in a guesthouse with twin rooms en-suite.
On Day 8 we continue north, driving along the Indian Ocean coastline through mango groves and cashew nut plantations, en-route to Inhambane.
Arabic influences are strong in Inhambane dating back to when slaves, ivory, gold, and spices were traded along the East Coast of Africa. Explore Inhambane, visiting the fresh produce market and its 200-year-old cathedral, before continuing to Praia de Barra. Our accommodation here is in casitas with en suite bathrooms, situated on Barra Beach.
Spend time lazing on the sandy beaches and swimming in the warm Indian Ocean or doing optional activities in and around Inhambane and Tofo do Praia. Dhow rides, snorkeling trips, and scuba diving on coral reefs are available (own expense). Eat out at a local restaurant (own expense) on one of the nights here.
We turn south along the coast of Mozambique to a secluded fishing lodge on the beach north of Xai Xai.
Perched on the dunes our lodge provides magnificent views of the surrounding bush and endless beach. At low tide, a shallow reef is exposed which creates an ideal spot for snorkeling and swimming in the warm waters.
We mark our last evening on the coast with a fish barbeque dinner at the lodge restaurant overlooking the beach.
On day 11 we drive through the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park spanning across the border between Mozambique and South Africa.
Re-entering South Africa, our drive takes us into Kruger National Park, one of Africa's finest game parks. We explore this vast wilderness area covering over 19 400 km² on morning and afternoon game drives, sighting an array of wild animals and birds in the untamed bush.
Predator sightings include leopards, lions, African wild dogs, hyenas, cheetahs, crocodiles, jackals and more. Kruger is also home to a huge range of herbivores, from rhinos and buffalos to zebras, antelopes and giraffes. You also have the option of taking a night game drive (own expense) in an open safari vehicle with one of the rangers of the national park.
Accommodation is in chalets with en suite bathrooms at a national park's camp with a pool and restaurant.
Today we are up early to spend a whole day exploring Kruger National Park. This is our opportunity to update our spotters' list and enjoy a photographic safari.
As the day draws to a close it's time to head to our private game reserve.
We spend the evening relaxing around the campfire under a canopy of African starlight, listening to the sounds of the wild.
On this final day of this memorable tour, there is time for one more exciting event.
Our rangers take us out on a walk in the bush, a thrilling but nerve-wracking experience as who knows what awaits around the next bend. Fortunately, our armed rangers are professionals and well-equipped to protect guests.
Their knowledge of the bush and the wildlife adds another element to this meander through the bushveld as the rangers interpret the animals' tracks and signs.
We return to the lodge for a welcome brunch before setting out for Johannesburg.
Arriving at about 18:00 in the evening our Natal, Mozambique & Kruger Park Safari ends in Johannesburg.
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 manner.
Add the 13-day Budget Northern Cape South African Safari after this safari for a more comprehensive Southern African Tour option. For details contact African Budget Safaris.
For up-to-date and confirmed pricing info for optional items, please drop us an enquiry.
This tour does take children.
Children between the ages of 12 and 17 years of age are accepted on group scheduled departures, travelling with an accompanying adult.
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