Cape Town to Victoria Falls and Mozambique Beaches Tour (Comfort) (36 Days)

Day 1

Cape Town – Cederberg Region, South Africa

Leaving Cape Town this morning, we stop and take a look at Table Mountain from across Table Bay before making our way to the Cederberg region. On route we stop at a traditional “Padstal” that sells homemade treats and bakes. Boasting some of the most picturesque mountains and orange farms, Cederberg is also home to the Rooibos tea farm which is world renowned for it’s health benefits and unique taste. We enjoy dinner at our overnight stop where we have an opportunity to experience South African hospitality at it’s best.

The Cederberg Mountains and nature reserve are situated nearby Clanwilliam. They were named after the endangered ancient Clanwilliam Cedar trees which are indigenous to the area, growing up to heights of over 1500 metres. The mountains spread up to 50 kilometres both north and south, and up to 20 kilometres both east and west with the highest summit within the range being Sneeuberg at 2028 metres. This region comprises of intense sandstone rock formations, usually various shades of red in colour. The Cederberg Wilderness Area is renowned for containing incredible ancient San rock art. It is also well-known for the discovery of significant fossils, specifically within recent years. These fossils are of primitive fish and can be dated back almost 450 million years to the Ordovician Period.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Marcuskraal Campsite
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Cape Town to Citrusdal ±270 km
Meals: Lunch. Dinner
Included Highlight: Traditional Dinner

Day 2

Namaqualand – Gariep (Orange) River, South Africa

Today we journey through the Northern Cape and Namaqualand, making a stop off at the isolated town of Springbok to gather a few last minute supplies. Once we have crossed the Namibian border, we arrive at our charming chalets that overlook the sparkling Orange River which creates a natural divider between South Africa and Namibia. For those travelling during the spring months (July – September) you may experience the wild flowers renowned in this region.

Originally called the Nu Gariep (‘Great River’) by the native Nama people, the Orange River was renamed by Colonel Robert Gordon – a Dutch explorer who once commanded the Cape garrison for several years. It is said that Gordon named the river in honour of William of Orange, but a more popular belief is that it was simply named so because of its colour. Presently, it is known by its original name (Gariep River) and it the longest river throughout South Africa, stretching to a distance of 1800 kilometres. Rising in the Drakensberg mountains in Lesotho, where it is known as Sengu, it flows west through South Africa and out into the Atlantic Ocean once it reaches Alexander Bay. On its lengthy voyage, the river boasts a wide selection of beautiful landscapes. It passes through rough mountainous terrains and never-ending dune fields. The Orange forms part of the international border that runs between South Africa and Namibia, South Africa and Lesotho, and numerous provincial borders within South Africa.

Though the river does not run through any main cities, it plays a crucial role within the economy of South Africa by providing water to be used for irrigation and hydroelectric power. The Orange River is also responsible for diamond deposits all along the coast of Namibia. For millions of years this river acted as a transportation system that took diamonds from volcanic pipes within Kimberley, South Africa out into the ocean. From here, currents would take the diamonds north where the surf would catch them and place them into the Namib dune fields.

Accommodation: Two per room: Felix Unite Cabanas
Facilities: En-suites Per Room. Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Citrusdal to Orange River ±500 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Spring Wild Flowers (Seasonal July – September)
Border Post South Africa: Vioolsdrift, Tel: +27 (27) 277 618 760, Open 24 hours. Namibia: Noordoewer, Tel: +264 (0) 63 297 122, Open 24 hours.

Day 3

Namibia – Gariep (Orange) River , South Africa

We have an opportunity to partake in an optional canoe trip down the Gariep River this morning, or we could choose to stay behind and devote our time to relax and unwind next to the river. Later in the day, we make our way back to Ai-Ais to check in to our lodging for the night and to delight in the marvellous hot springs offered by our resort.

Meaning ‘burning water’ in the local language of Nama, Ai-Ais refers to the sulphurous thermal hot water springs situated at the bottom of the mountains and at Fish River Canyon’s southern end. The Ai-Ais (pronounced ‘eye-ice’) springs originate from deep beneath the river bed and create a haven in this extremely dry area. The hot springs were used by the German military troops as a base camp during the Nama uprising. This area was once again used as a base in 1915 by South African troops who were healing from injuries incurred during the South-West Africa Campaign. The springs were declared national monuments in the 1960s and subsequently became a conservation area. The Ai-Ais camp was officially opened on the 16th of March, 1971. The hot water, heavy with sulphur, chloride and fluoride, has an average temperature of approximately 60 degrees Celsius and is known to be a relaxing curative.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Ai Ais Resort
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Orange/Gariep River to Ai-Ais
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Ais-Ais Hot springs

Day 4

Fish River Canyon, Quiver Tree Forest and Giants Playground, Namibia

Waking early this morning, we drive to the rim of the Fish River Canyon enjoying the beautiful sunrise in this magical piece of land. We also enjoy a walk along the rim of the canyon before making our way to Keetmanshoop. The afternoon is spent exploring the magnificent Quiver Tree Forest and the Giants Playground.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Schutzenhaus Guesthouse
Facilities: En-suites Bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route : Fish River Canyon to Keetmanshoop ±260 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlights: Scenic walk along the rim of Fish River Canyon / Visit to Quiver Tree Forest and Giants Playground

Day 5

Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia

Every journey has long travelling days and today we will venture deep into the Namib Desert. We make our way from the grasslands to the red dunes that cover the western reaches of the desert. Our accommodation this evening is at the tip of the dune fields where we enjoy the unique sounds of the Barking Gecko as we fall asleep.

Accommodation: Two Per Permanent Tent: Hammerstein Lodge 
Facilities: En Suite Bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Keetmanshoop to Namib Naukluft National Park ±470 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6

Sossusvlei Dunes – Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia

We begin our day climbing Dune 45 enjoying the magnificent views before making our way back down for a delicious breakfast. We hop onto a 4×4 and are transferred to Sossusvlei where you will embark on a walk through the salt pans at Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. Tonight we spend some time admiring the breathtaking view of the desert stars.

Accommodation: Two Per Room Hammerstein Lodge OR Boesman’s Camp or similar (no website)
Facilities: En-suite bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Sesriem Canyon / Hike up Dune 45, 4×4 shuttle to Sossusvlei / Deadvlei

Day 7 - 8

Swakopmund

Today we enjoy an educational desert excursion with our local guide before leaving the Namib and crossing the Tropic of Capricorn on the way from the Atlantic Coast. Continuing our journey in the Namib Naukluft National Park, we immerse ourselves in the natural surroundings as we stop at a desert waterhole to spot some desert game quenching their thirst. The unique Welwitshia mirabilis plants and the striking lunar landscape are both on view this afternoon. Following our time in the Namib Desert, we turn west and head into the sunset to our next destination, the bustling coastal town of Swakopmund, where adventure awaits along with a welcome taste of civilization. As soon as we arrive in Swakopmund, we will be given the opportunity to choose from a variety of thrilling adventures.

The following day is free to enjoy and participate in the multiple adventure activities available here. You can also spend your time exploring the city at leisure or simply enjoy some shopping before venturing to our next destination.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Haus Garnison  OR Amanpuri Travellers Lodge OR Stay@Swakop
Facilities: En-suite bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Namiba Naukluft National Park to Swakopmund
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2
Included Highlight: Tropic of Capricorn, Guided desert walk with local expert, Mirabilis trees, Lunar landscape.
Optional Activity: Dolphin cruise, Skydiving, Sandboarding, Quad biking

Day 9

Spitzkoppe – Brandberg, Namibia

We start the day early and travel to the vast granite formations of Spitzkoppe. Here, we take a walk with our local guide to view the magnificent rock art of the San people, before making our way back and retiring for the night.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Brandberg White Lady Lodge
Facilities: En-suite bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Swakopmund to Brandberg (via Spitzkoppe) ±320 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Visit and explore Spitzkoppe with a local guide

Day 10

Brandberg White Lady, Namibia

Recognised as the highest mountain in Namibia, the Brandberg (Burning Mountains) has more than 45 000 rock paintings in the area. In the morning we embark on an hour long hike to pay a visit to the ancient rock paintings in the area.  After exploring we make our way to the Kamanjab are where we spend our evening. An optional excursion is available in the afternoon for those wanting to visit the educational centre showcasing the lifestyle of the Himba Tribe.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Oppi Koppi Rest Camp 
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Brandberg to Kamanjab
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Brandberg White Lady hike

Day 11 - 12

Etosha National Park, Namibia

Today we rise early and make our way to Etosha National Park. Etosha means ‘Great White Place’ and is dominated by an enormous salt pan which makes up part of the mighty Kalahari Basin. Originally a lake nourished by the Kunene River, the Etosha pan spreads across an entire quarter of the Etosha National Park where you will have one of the most incredible game viewing experiences. We then make our way back to retire for the evening.

On our second day in Etosha, we spend more time exploring the park and the edges of the Etosha Pan where we will have an opportunity to take some fantastic pictures.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: NWR: Halali or NWR: Okaukuejo 
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Etosha National Park
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2
Included Highlight: Afternoon Game Drive in the truck, Full Day Game drive in truck

Day 13

Windhoek, Namibia

With an early start to the day, we travel onto Windhoek, Namibia’s capital. Upon our arrival in Windhoek, we embark on a brief walking tour around the city and view some of the famous landmarks. Our accommodation this evening is located between the city and the airport.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Heja Game Lodge or Klein Windhoek Guest House
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Etosha National Park to Windhoek ±450 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Walk through Windhoek with your guide

Day 14

Ghanzi, Botswana

Today we travel east to Botswana and the Kalahari Desert which covers of 900 000 square kilometres. A guided walk with the San community provides us with insight into the harsh climate and San people. In the evening we experience some traditional dance, songs and story-telling.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Ghanzi Trail Blazers
Facilities: En-suite bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Windhoek to Ghanzi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: San Tribal dance in evening
Optional Activities: San Guided Walk (could take place the next morning)
Border Post Namibia: Buitepos, Tel: +264 62 560401, Open: 07h00-24h00, Botswana: Mamanu, Tel: +267 (0) 659 2013/2064, Open: 07h00-24h00

Day 15 - 16

Okavango Delta and Khwai Conservation Area, Botswana

Rising early in the morning, we make our way towards Maun. Upon arrival, there is an optional scenic flight over the Delta (time and weather permitting). After your optional flight, the group is collected from a meeting point in Maun and taken on an incredible journey into the Khwai Conservation area in smaller safari vehicles. After dinner, our guide will explain what we can expect for our mokoro excursion into the Okavango Delta and our game drive in Khwai.

The next morning is early morning and for good reason, as we make our way to the poling station and meet our polers who will be guiding us through the waterways of the Delta.

Your polers are experienced and knowledgeable when it comes to exploring the narrow, reed-filled channels that eventually open into large lagoons, where you will have the opportunity of watching hippos in their natural environment and hopefully see some spectacular bird species before embarking on a walking trail on one of the many islands within the delta before heading back to the poling station and then camp.

It’s important to know that the walking trail and the mokoro trip is not primarily focused on game viewing but rather another unique experience enjoyed in the heart of Botswana.

After lunch, we return to Khwai Conservation area for a well-deserved game drive that’s conducted by professional guides in 4×4 vehicles, where you stand the chance of seeing amazing wildlife (route might change due to certain roads being flooded).

Accommodation: Camp: Two Permanent Tent Magotho / Boga Campsite (no website available)
Facilities: Ensuite Bathroom
Route: Ghanzi via Maun to Khwai Conservation Area
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2
Included Highlight: Okavango Delta Morning Mokoro Excursion / Khwai Conservation Afternoon Game Drive
Optional Activity: Okavango Delta scenic flight

Day 17

Khwai – Savuti – Chobe – Kasane, Botswana

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Thebe River Safaris
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Khwai Conservation Area – via Savuti Game Reserve – Kasane (long day ±6-8 hours)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Activity: Full Day Game Drive through Savuti Game Reserve in 4×4 safari vehicles

Day 18

Chobe National Park, Botswana

We make our way to Kasane where the afternoon is spent exploring the Chobe National Park. We are treated to a relaxing sunset river cruise on the Chobe River (situated within the National Park) when we will be able to spot plenty of beautiful animals on the riverbanks, such as hippo, buffalo and elephants. We end the evening with a delicious meal around a fire.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Thebe River Lodge
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Nata to Kasane ±315 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Chobe National Park boat cruise
Optional Activity: Chobe National Park Game Drive

Day 19 - 20

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Today we make our way to Zimbabwe and travel to Victoria Falls where we visit the spectacular natural wonder. At your leisure you can view the mighty Zambezi River dropping into the Batoka Gorge. There are many craft markets for the more leisurely traveller and for those who seek an adrenaline rush there are many Optional activities you can partake in. The evening can be spent enjoying an optional dinner out.

At 1700 metres wide and 108 metres high, Victoria Falls is said to be the biggest falls in the world. According to popular belief, Scottish explorer David Livingstone was the very first European to stand witness to the mighty Victoria Falls and wrote: “It has never been seen before by European eyes, but scenes so wonderful must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight.” The local name of Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning ‘the smoke that thunders’, is used as the official name in Zimbabwe. Because of it’s enormous power and size, there are countless myths associated with the Falls. It is believed by the local Tonga people of Zambezi that a river God, Nyaminyami, lives in the water in the shape of a gigantic snake.

The Zambezi River flooded thrice when the Kariba Dam was constructed in the 1950s, causing numerous deaths and much devastation. The locals believe that Nyaminyami became angry with the building of the Dam and caused the horrendous floods. The peculiar form of Victoria Falls allows it’s entire width to be seen face-on from as near as 60 metres to the Falls due to the Zambezi River dropping into a deep and narrow slot-like fissure connected to a lengthy sequence of ravines. There are very few waterfalls in the world that permit this close of an approach on foot.

The Falls are created by the entire width of the river plummeting in a solitary vertical drop into a 120 metre wide chasm, whittled by the cascading waters along a breakage area in the basalt plateau. The chasm called the First Gorge varies from 80 metres deep at it’s west end to 108 metres in it’s centre. The only opening to the First Gorge is though a gap 110 metres wide, approximately two-thirds of the way across the width of the Falls from the western end, through which the entire volume of the river spills into the gorges of the Victoria Falls. Two islands, Boaruka and Livingstone, are situated on the peak of the Falls. They are big enough to divide the sheet of water, even at full flood. At less than full flood, other islands perform the task of dividing the curtain of water into dispersed parallel streams. The main streams are known as Leaping Water, Devil’s Cataract, Main Falls, Rainbow Falls (the tallest) and the Eastern Cataract.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Shearwater Explorers Village 
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Kasane to Victoria Falls ±100 km
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2
Optional Activity: Victoria Falls National Park Entry, Zambezi Sunset Cruise, Bungee Jump, Helicopter Flights, White Water Rafting

Day 21

Victoria Falls to Francistown, Botswana

An early departure from Victoria Falls, we drive south through Botswana towards Francistown. We arrive at our accommodation for the evening located just outside of the town.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Woodlands Lodge
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Victoria Falls to Francistown
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Border Post: Zimbabwe: Kazangula Road, Open: 06h00-18h00, Botswana: Kazangula Road, +267 625-0320/1303, Open: 06h00-20h00

Day 22

Francistown to Johannesburg, South Africa

Another early departure, we enter into South Africa by crossing the border and enjoy a picturesque drive to Johannesburg arriving in the late afternoon.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Garden Court OR Tambo International 
Facilities: En-suite Bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Francistown to Johannesburg ±560 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Border Post: Botswana: Martinsdrift, Tel: +267 4940 254, Open: 08h00-18h00. South Africa: Groblersbrug, Tel: +27 (0) 14 767 1019, Open: 08h00-18h00

Day 23

Johannesburg – Hlane Game Reserve, Eswatini, South Africa

In the morning, we depart Johannesburg and travel through the scenic Mpumalanga region until we reach Eswatini. After crossing into the country, we enter the Hlane Royal National Park, home to a wide variety of animal species and birds. There are a variety of optional activities available in the 30,000 acre Nature Reserve.

Accommodation: Two Per Room Hlane game reserve 
Facilities: En-suites per tent Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Johannesburg to Eswatini
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Border Post: South Africa: Oshoek, Tel: +27 (0) 17 882 0138/9, Open: 07h00-22h00 Eswatini: Ngwenya, Tel: Not Available, Open: 07h00-22h00

Day 24

Eswatini, South Africa

This morning, you will have the opportunity to explore Mlilwane’s interwoven network of 9 trails with your guide. After lunch, you will have the remainder of the afternoon at your leisure. The Ezulwini Valley offers a variety of activities and adventures in Mlilwane

Accommodation: Two Per Hut Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
Facilities: En-Suite bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Morning walk with guide

Day 25

Eswatini, South Africa

After leaving Mlilwane, we travel to Hlane Game Reserve, another excellent reserve. During our stay in Eswatini, we will have the opportunity to enjoy an excursion through the reserve on a game drive.

Accommodation: Two Per Room Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary or Hlane game reserve 
Facilities: En-suite bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Route: Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary to Hlane Game Reserve
Included Highlight: Rhino Game Drive in Hlane Game Reserve

Day 26

Maputo, Mozambique

Today we make our way to Maputo, Mozambique’s capital and biggest city. Once settled, we enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and set out to explore the sights of the city on a guided walking tour. A hub to the Indian Ocean, it’s economy is focused around the harbour. There is much to do and see here. The city is surrounded by the province of Maputo, but is administrated as it’s own province. The city is located on the west side of the Maputo Bay, at the Thembe River mouth. The evening is spent enjoying a lovely dinner out and we have the opportunity to experience the night life of this fascinating city.

There are two beautiful islands, Inhaca and Portuguese Island, that are situated just off Maputo’s coast. Under the influence of the Portuguese, Maputo transformed into one of the most gorgeous and trendy cities with a remarkable skyline of high buildings and a multicultural Portuguese/African atmosphere. Areas such as the Polana Hotel bustled with the chatting of socialites and nightclubs pumping music until the early hours of the morning. However, the Civil War during the 1970s and 1980s changed all of this. When peace eventually arrived, the once proud city was in ruins. Countless immigrants filled the buildings, litter was strewn all over the streets and primary services such as electricity, water and garbage collection were out of commission. Presently, the city is slowly being restored to it’s previous state. The elite can once more be found in the five-star Polana Hotel with it’s fantastic view overlooking the harbour, tea gardens and antique Victorian elevator.

There are various historical sites and buildings to visit here. Maputo’s most significant landmark is the Fort of Nossa Senhora da Conceiao (Our Lady of Conception) which was the centre of the original settlement. Another magnificent structure is the Central Railway Station, a massive building that appears as more of a palace for kings and queens rather than a transport hub for commuters. There are also some fantastic restaurants where you can indulge in tasty local beers and sumptuous fresh prawns.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Southern Sun Maputo 
Facilities: En-suites Bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Eswatini to Maputo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Maputo Walking Tour
Border Post: Mozambique: Lebombo, Tel: +258 2155 0010, Open: 06h00-18h00, South Africa: Komatipoort, Tel: +27 (013) 793-7201, Open: 06h00-18h00

Day 27

Inhambane – Barra Beach, Mozambique

Today we journey through the dense coconut plantations to Inhambane, an old, Portuguese settlement. This coastal area is very refreshing and contains amazing beaches. The following two nights are spent at the beach.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Bay View Lodge
Facilities: En-suites Bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Maputo to Inhambane ± 469 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 28

Inhambane, Mozambique

The following two days can be spent unwinding on the pristine beaches or visiting some of Africa’s most incredible diving and snorkeling areas. There are various Optional Activities in which to partake in.

The following day your guide will take you on a drive to Tofo where you are free to enjoy the local market and seaside villages.Tofo is ideal for a day’s outing, as it offers safe swimming, a charming market, and several popular beach bars. It is important to note that a second day will not only allow you to enjoy the activities on offer to their full potential, but it will also enable us to adapt to the changing weather conditions In your free time make sure you join in on the optional activities available.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Bay View Lodge
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2
Included Highlight: Day trip to Tofo
Optional Activity: Ocean Safaris, Quad Biking, Scuba Diving, Snorkelling and more

Day 29

Vilanculos, Mozambique

En route to Vilanculos we will make a stop at a local craft market to shop for souvenirs and curios. Upon arrival you will be briefed on the following days excursion. The Bazaruto Archipelago is Mozambique’s leading tourist destination. It is a guarded area containing spectacular sea life, with snorkelling in the reefs being one of the finest ways to enjoy it.

Vilanculos is a coastal town located in Mozambique, situated in the Vilanculos District in the province of Inhambane. Vilanculos was named after Gamala Vilankulo Mukoke, a local tribal chief, and some of the suburbs (bairros) are named after his sons. The town has developed rapidly over the past decade and has received large amounts of investment into it’s tourism infrastructure. It is the gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago and dhows (local boats) often journey between the town and the Archipelago. The town itself is only 5 kilometres in length and contains various market, shops and other conveniences.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Sailaway Safaris 
Facilities: En-suites per room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Inhambane to Vilanculos ±300km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Explore Inhambane on foot (self-guided walk)

Day 30 - 31

Bazaruto Excursion, Mozambique

The Bazaruto trip takes place on a traditional dhow. We glide out to the islands where we have the chance to snorkel, swim and unwind during the day. The Bazaruto is one of Southern Africa’s biggest marine parks. We will head back to the mainland in the afternoon and enjoy the evening relaxing after our excursion today.

The Archipelago was established as a National Park in the year 1971. It comprises of six islands, the four primary being Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque and Santa Carolina, or ‘paradise island’. The islands were created by sand deposits from the Limpopo River which has since changed it’s route. The three bigger islands formed part of a vast sand-pit peninsula that was once joined to the mainland, but has since parted as the continent sank into the Indian Ocean over the past millennia. Only Santa Carolina is a genuine Rock Island and is therefore encircled by deeper water than the rest. Because of their protected status, the Archipelago is an untouched gem that hosts over 180 species of bird life, butterflies and even suni Antelope.

The islands are covered by massive sand dunes and freshwater lakes which are home to crocodiles and are the nesting ground for stunning black-winged flamingos. The beautiful coral reefs that encircle the islands contain more than 2,000 fish species as well as whales and dolphins. A wide range of coral forms ideal diving spots, regarded as some of the finest locations in the world. The five types of turtle living in the Indian Ocean can all be found here, using the pristine beaches as their breeding ground. Dugong (sea cows), game fish and giant lobster can also be spotted in these guarded reefs. The entire island sustains many traditional fishermen and their families, majority of whom are not permanent residents and may drift between the Archipelago and the mainland in search of abundant fishing waters.

For over two thousand years, lateen rigged dhows have sailed the Indian Ocean, joining economies and people and forming a cosmopolitan maritime Indian Ocean culture. For ages, Arab shipwrights fashioned boats using sewn construction – sewing the boards together using coconut fibre cord. However, this skill has pretty much disappeared and been replaced by modern nail construction.

Dugongs are the only members of the order Sirenia, from the family Dugongidae. Dugongs are one of the most threatened mammals in Africa and are among the most endangered mammalian species in the Western Indian Ocean. They are located in the Western Indian Ocean with a minimal occurrence on Southern Africa’s east coast. The Bazaruto Archipelago and coast of Mozambique are one of the most crucial environments for dugongs in the Western Indian Ocean. They are only found in certain areas due to their specific living requirements – sea grass meadows growing in shallow, covered lagoons guarded by reefs and islands, in particular. Your best chance at seeing one of these magnificent creatures is in the Archipelago’s sea grass meadows. The primary reason for their disappearance is hunting and unintentional entanglement in fishing nets, specifically gill nets. Extrapolation of a recent survey showed an estimated total population of a mere 104 animals still living in the region surrounding the Bazaruto Archipelago.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Sailaway Safaris
Facilities: En-suites bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Bazaruto Island Day Excursion (full day)

Day 32

Xai Xai District, Mozambique

We make our way into Mozambique today and journey through the picturesque coastal views before reaching the busy town of Xai Xai. Upon arrival in the late afternoon we enjoy a walk on the beach or sip on a sundowner bidding farewell to the Indian Ocean and the immaculate beaches of Mozambique. Our accommodation this evening will be at a truly unique Mozambique lodge.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Sunset Beach Lodge
Facilities: En-suite bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Bazaruto to Xai Xai District
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 33 - 35

Mozambique – Kruger National Park – Panorama Route, South Africa

We pack up our belongings and leave Mozambique for Kruger National Park today. After shaking off the sand from our shoes, we depart Mozambique for the sounds of the bush.

The following day, in the early hours of this morning, we will enter the Kruger National Park for a full day of game viewing. Wildlife sightings are excellent in the Kruger National Park, which is also home to the famed Big-5. The open-sided 4×4 vehicles offer the thrill of experiencing the park from a different perspective. On returning to camp this afternoon, you will have the option of participating in an optional sundowner drive after a short break. Booking is essential and your guide can help you with your departure this morning.

We will be setting out for the Panorama Route a little later today. The Panorama Route is situated along the escarpment which separates the central plateau and low-lying bushveld of the Kruger National Park. It provides us with a day of scenic pleasures. Before returning to camp in the late afternoon, we will visit Bourke’s Luck Potholes, the Three Rondavels, and God’s Window. You have the option of taking the Sundowner Drive this evening.

Accommodation: Permanent Tent: Nkambeni Reserve
Facilities: En Suite Bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Xai Xai to Kruger National Park
Meals: Breakfast x3, Lunch x3, Dinner x3
Included Highlights: Kruger Park Full-Day Game Drive in 4×4 Vehicles, Panorama Route – Bourke’s Luck Potholes, Three Rondavels and God’s Window
Optional Activities: Sundowner Drive (Subject to Availability)
Border Post Mozambique: Mozambique: Lebombo, Tel: +258 2155 0010, Open: 06h00-18h00 South Africa: Komatipoort, Tel: +27 (013) 793-7201, Open: 06h00-18h00

Day 36

Johannesburg, South Africa

After spending our days exploring wildlife and beaches, we are heading back to Johannesburg. As soon as we arrive in Johannesburg, your tour comes to an end. Johannesburg has a great nightlife and many excellent restaurants and the group often spends the evening together.

Accommodation: Own Arrangements / Post tour accommodation can be booked
Route: Greater Kruger National Park to Johannesburg
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Onward Travel Plans

Due to circumstances beyond our control while on tour (such as border crossings, traffic, breakdowns and delays, etc), the end time on the last day cannot be guaranteed. Therefore we strongly recommend you stay the night and fly out the next day. Please consult with your booking consultant.