14 day Bush + Beach Journey: Small Group + Lodge accommodation

On this safari we often go off the beaten track. Many of the areas visited do not have the infrastructure that you are accustomed to in Europe. Starting off in Johannesburg in South Africa, we travel to Kwa Zulu Natal where we will explore the Mkuzi and Kosi Bay Game Reserves. Mozambique, a country that has just recently been rediscovered for tourism is visited. We explore lonely beaches surrounded by tropical fauna, and a rich portuguese, as well as arabic cultural heritage. One of the main highlights of this safari is to experience the incredible variety of species of the Indian Ocean that we will explore on snorkelling and scuba diving excursions and the Big 5 and other unique wildlife in the Kruger Park.

. Safari durch Südafrika, Mosambik und Swaziland

Highlights:

South Africa
Game viewing in the Kruger National Park, as well as the Mkuze and Kosi Bay nature reserves

Swaziland
Bush walks through the Hlane National Park

Mozambique
lonely beaches, snorkeling, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing and the lagoon in Inhambane

Day 1 & 2: Mkuze Game Reserve, South Africa
We depart from Johannesburg and travel to KwaZulu Natal where we will visit the Mkuze Game Reserve, well known for its endangered black and white rhino. We explore the reserve on game drives and visit a hide overlooking one of the waterholes to watch many different animals and birds. A local guide will take us on a walk in the neighbouring village where we meet local Zulu people and are introduced to their culture and customs. B, L, D

Day 3 - 5: Kosi Bay
Kosi Bay Nature Reserve is famous for its fertile estuary, mangroves, dune forest and lakes, which we explore on foot and by boat. We visit Bunga neck and watch leatherback turtles laying eggs (only in season; November - January). We then visit the Kosi Bay river mouth to snorkel on a reef and watch the local fisherman. B, L, D x 2

Day 6: Hlane Nationalpark, Swaziland
Our lodge in Hlane Game Reserve, Swaziland, is surrounded by beautiful african bushveld. We go on a game walk with a local ranger looking for white rhinos, elephants and some of the more than 300 different bird species. B, L, D

Day 7: Maputo, Mozambique
We enter Mozambique at the Namaacha border post and travel to Maputo, the capital of Mozambique. Here portuguese and african cultures meet in an exquisite blend of seafood and vibrant life. Sample the excellent seafood in a local restaurant (at own expense). B, L

Day 8 - 10: Snorkelling excursion near Barra Lodge
The region around Barra Point is well known for its huge whale sharks and manta rays that we might see when snorkelling. Those holding a licence can go scuba diving (at own expense, approx. Euro 30). Those who prefer staying on shore can go for long walks on the endless beach. B, L, D

Day 11: Bilene
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. B, L

Day 12 & 13: Kruger National Park
We visit Kruger National Park, South Africa, to see some of the big game there! We undertake several exciting game drives to try and spot lions, giraffes, elephants, buffalos and maybe even an elusive leopard. This is one of the most important National Parks in Southern Africa and we enjoy the solitude there for 2 days. B, L, D

Day 14: Kruger - Johannesburg
After an early morning game drive we return to Johannesburg in the evening, sun-tanned, laid-back and ready to rejoin life. Tour ends. B

Safari Facts

Price 2012: EUR 1935
Local Payment: none

Start in Johannesburg/South Africa
End in Johannesburg/South Africa
Meals as described

Tour in english

small group: 6 to 12 people
Accommodation: in bungalows, 2 or more per room
Transport: Overland truck

Important notes: A single supplement is available on this trip @ EUR 395

Price includes