Itinerary

Embark on a captivating 7 Day Ultimate Wildlife and Beach Safari  spanning Kruger Park, Mozambique, and Eswatini. Starting and ending in the Johannesburg area, this journey promises an unforgettable experience.

Our adventure commences with a visit to Kruger National Park, South Africa’s renowned wildlife haven and one of Africa’s largest game reserves, where we'll enjoy a full day open jeep Safari amidst the home of the Big 5.

Next, we journey to Mozambique's picturesque beachside town of Ponta do Ouro in Southern Mozambique, where pristine white sand beaches, exceptional scuba diving/snorkelling, and the chance to swim with wild dolphins on an ocean safari await.

After soaking up the coastal charm, we venture to the Kingdom of Eswatini, where Africa's last absolute monarch reigns. Here, amidst the extraordinary riches, we explore Hlane Royal National Park and Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, immersing ourselves in the natural wonders of this captivating land.

Included:

• Professional Guide
• Comfortable Safari Vehicles and activities as per itinerary
• Park entrance and conservation fees
• Accommodation as per Itinerary
• 6 nights’ Accommodation
• Meals as per Itinerary (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, D- Dinner, FB – Full Board)

Excluded:

• Visa fees, Airport Transfers, Curios and Tips
• International flights and Local flights
• Beverages
• Meals where indicated

Highlights:

• Kruger National Park
• Maputo City
• Ponto do Ouro
• Hlane Royal National Park
• Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary

Day 01: Johannesburg to Kruger National Park (Lower Kruger Park) (450km)

Upon departure from your hotel in Johannesburg, we bid farewell to the bustling cityscape and embark on a journey across the highveld farms and coal fields, venturing towards the majestic Drakensberg escarpment in Mpumalanga province. Our path leads us onward to the Lowveld, the home of Kruger Park, where our adventure awaits.

Embark on an afternoon safari with a knowledgeable Kruger Specialist guide, setting out as the day wanes and returning under the cloak of night with the aid of a spotlight to observe nocturnal creatures. During the cooling afternoon, we seek out grazing and browsing animals, offering a prime opportunity to behold the stunning African sunset over the Kruger National Park's bushveld. As darkness falls, the likelihood of encountering nocturnal wildlife increases, providing a captivating glimpse into their nightly activities.

*Dinner on own account

Day 02: Kruger National Park Exploration (B) (Lower Kruger Park)

Rise early this morning to rendezvous with your Kruger Park specialist guide at the Crocodile Bridge gate of the Kruger National Park, gearing up for an exhilarating full-day safari aboard an open jeep.

A breakfast pack awaits you for the journey; remember to bring along your sunscreen and safari essentials such as cameras and binoculars.

Embark on a day-long quest in pursuit of the renowned Big 5 – Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Buffalo, and Rhinoceros – along with the myriad species of birds, mammals, and reptiles that adorn this African landscape.

Kruger Park stands as South Africa’s largest game reserve and the crown jewel of South African National Parks, boasting an impressive array of biodiversity: 336 trees, 49 fish, 34 amphibians, 114 reptiles, 507 birds, and 147 mammals.

Navigate the terrain aboard 9-seater open-air safari vehicles, meticulously designed to provide a panoramic perspective of the wildlife encounters along the way. Pause intermittently at various animal sightings, waterholes, and viewpoints, immersing yourself fully in the awe-inspiring natural splendour of Kruger Park.

*Midday: Take a break for lunch (at your own expense) at one of the designated rest stops. Following lunch, resume your safari adventure before concluding the day's exploration and returning to the lodge in the late afternoon.

*Afternoon: Arrive back at the lodge to relish in some leisure time, unwinding before dinner (at your own expense).

Day 03: Kruger National Park to Ponto do Ouro (B, D) (Kaya Kweru or similar) (250km)

We savour breakfast before embarking on our journey to the Mozambican border, bidding farewell to Kruger Park and South Africa as we venture into Mozambique today. Following border formalities (Please check Visa Requirements before arrival), we make our way towards the capital city of Maputo for a brief drive highlighting the city's key attractions.

We behold the splendour of the Maputo Central Train Station, Central Market, Iron House, and Cathedral before proceeding with our journey southward to the charming coastal town of Ponta do Ouro in Southern Mozambique.

Upon arrival, we check into our accommodation for the next two nights, allowing time to arrange optional activities for the following day with the assistance of your guide.

The remainder of the afternoon is yours to explore Ponta do Ouro, where pristine white sand beaches await your discovery. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the traditional open-air market, browse through charming "cantinas" (small shops), and engage with eager curio sellers offering their wares. Later, unwind at one of the rustic bars in town with cocktails and local beer, perhaps trying the refreshing R&R (Rum and Raspberry) upon recommendation from the bartender.

In the evening, we venture to the market for a traditional chicken dinner at Mamma Alice’s, a hidden gem nestled behind the Ponta fresh produce market, offering an authentic local dining experience.

Day 04: Ponto do Ouro (Kaya Kweru or similar) (B)

Indulge in a leisurely day brimming with opportunities for excitement, adventure, and optional activities tailored to your preferences! Ensure you've booked your desired activities in advance to make the most of your experience.

Activity Option: Embark on an extraordinary and unforgettable adventure with our Dolphin Swim Tour, where you'll have the rare opportunity to swim alongside wild dolphins in their natural habitat. This excursion also features a shallow reef snorkelling session, allowing you to encounter turtles, rays, and a vibrant array of tropical marine fish. The total duration of the tour is 2 hours and 45 minutes, including a 2-hour boat journey, contingent upon dolphin sightings and their behaviour. Please bear in mind that these are wild dolphins, and sightings cannot be guaranteed.

During Whale Watching Season, spanning from July to November, we offer combo specials that include both the thrilling Dolphin Swim and captivating Whale Watching experiences.

Alternatively, you can opt for leisurely strolls along the endless beaches, indulge in cocktails at the numerous beach bars, or simply unwind on the shores before sampling the delectable local fresh seafood. The day is yours to enjoy at your own pace and leisure.

*Lunch and Dinner on Own Account

Day 05: Ponto Do Ouro – eSwatini (Ndlovu Camp or similar) (B) (220km)

After indulging in breakfast, we bid a fond farewell to the breathtaking beaches of Southern Mozambique and set our course for the Kingdom of Eswatini. Don't forget your passports today (Please check Visa Requirements before arrival), as we'll be crossing the border into Eswatini. Upon arrival, we check in at Hlane for the night, where you can enjoy lunch (at your own expense) with a view overlooking the water in front of the restaurant, frequented by animals coming to drink.

This afternoon, you have the option to embark on an unforgettable sunset safari. Dinner will be served in the open-air restaurant, where you may have the opportunity to listen to the lions roaring in the distance after dinner. Please note that Hlane operates without electricity; instead, paraffin lanterns and candles provide illumination, while gas is used for hot water showers.

The sunset safari lasts 2.5 hours and includes a refreshing drink while you watch the sun dip below the horizon. Hlane is home to four of the Big 5, with only the buffalo absent from the reserve. The reserve is divided into three areas, and the sunset safari includes a visit to the lion section.

*Lunch and Dinner on own account

Day 06:  Hlane – Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary (Mlilwane Restcamp or similar) (B) (130km)

This morning, we embark on a truly unique experience with a Rhino Drive/Walk, focusing on the White Rhinoceros. This activity combines 80% driving and 20% walking, offering a shorter 1.5-hour safari. The highlight of this experience is the potential opportunity to quietly approach White Rhinos on foot after alighting from the vehicle. It's important to note that not all Rhinoceros are approachable, and guides exercise discretion. Due to the nature of this activity, the minimum age requirement is 13 years.

Following breakfast, we pack up and journey to the Swazi Candles Centre. Here, you'll have the chance to witness talented crafters and artists at work, and explore the bustling Arts and Crafts market for souvenirs. Don't forget to sample some of the famous Black Mamba chilli sauce!

Next, we visit another of Eswatini’s top tourist attractions at Mantenga Reserve, set against the backdrop of Nyonyane mountain. Within the reserve, we explore a cultural village where Swazi history, culture, and tradition come to life.

Finally, we check into Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, a pioneering conservation area of Eswatini.

*Lunch and Dinner on own account

Day 07: Mlilwane – Johannesburg (B) (400km)

Explore endless hours of self-guided hikes across the expansive nearly 5000-hectare sanctuary, made possible by the relative absence of dangerous game. For those seeking alternative adventures, consider Horseback Safaris and Mountain biking. In the late morning, we depart for South Africa, concluding our tour in the vicinity of OR Tambo International Airport or at hotels of your choice in Johannesburg. Along the way, we make a stop at the Ngwenya Glass Factory Shop, renowned as Swaziland’s Hottest Attraction, before continuing to a Swazi Cultural Village to gain insight into Swazi Culture and Traditions. Today involves a border crossing, so please ensure your passports are readily accessible. Finally, we return to Johannesburg, where we bid our final farewells.

*Sandy Tracks and its partners reserves the right to amend the published accommodation in the itinerary at any time due to availability at the time of booking

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