Welcome to South Africa! Your unforgettable self-drive tour through South Africa and Mozambique begins. You arrive at Johannesburg airport and pick up your rental car. You drive to your accommodation. For the afternoon we recommend an organised city tour of Pretoria or Soweto (included on the guided version of the trip). The rest of the day is free to relax. Optional activities: you can visit the Voortrekker Monument and the Kruger House (entrance fees optional).

1 night · double room · with breakfast The Safari Club SA is located very close to OR Tambo Airport and offers 16 guest rooms, each furnished in the style of a particular region – such as the Kalahari Room, Etosha Room, Okavango Room and so on – each with an en-suite bathroom, TV, air conditioning and tea/coffee maker. The main area has lounges, a bar, a business centre and a separate breakfast room. Breakfast is included in the price. The bar is dedicated to the famous Nguni cattle and decorated with beautiful related collectibles. For hot summer afternoons there is a swimming pool.

After breakfast you drive on. On your South Africa trip you visit the wonderful Panorama Route, which runs along the impressive Blyde River Canyon. This canyon, one of Africa's natural wonders, drops 800 metres from the mighty, flat rock ledge of Mariepskop and its trio of companions, the Three Rondavels, down to the river. You stop at various viewpoints and also see Bourke's Luck Potholes, formed by the unusual effects of water erosion (entrance fees optional).

2 nights · double room · with breakfast The Blyde River Canyon Lodge lies in Limpopo Province in north-eastern South Africa, near the famous Panorama Route and not far from the Blyde River Canyon. The lodge is set in a quiet natural landscape between the Drakensberg and the Blyde River and is a good base for excursions to Kruger National Park and the region's sights. The lodge offers various rooms and small cottages set in a large garden with views of the surrounding nature. Guests can relax there, watch the local wildlife or take part in activities such as hikes, boat trips on the Blyde River or excursions to viewpoints along the Panorama Route. Sustainable tourism is an important part of the concept. The lodge takes care to treat nature responsibly and supports projects in the surrounding communities, including social initiatives, education programmes and cooperation with local craft groups. This is intended to promote both nature conservation and the development of the local population.

The Panorama Route winds through the picturesque province of Mpumalanga in South Africa and offers breathtaking views, spectacular waterfalls and fascinating geological formations. Along a stretch of around 180 kilometres between the towns of Hazyview and Graskop, unforgettable nature experiences and cultural encounters await you. Use this day to explore or hike on your own.

Your journey continues to the Thornybush Game Reserve in the Greater Kruger National Park. Tangala is a small, private safari camp in an area home to abundant wildlife, including the "Big Five". The accommodation consists of just 4 chalets and 6 safari tents, each with a private terrace. The furnishings are rustic and reminiscent of times long gone. The camp has no electricity; kerosene lanterns provide romantic, flickering light. The camp has a boma with a traditional fire pit, a lounge, a bar, a swimming pool and a sun deck overlooking a waterhole, as well as a wildlife hide. Enjoy a truly African dinner under the starry sky (weather permitting). Brunch, high tea, dinner and tea/coffee are included. Twice a day, game drives (included) are undertaken in an open 4x4 vehicle with an experienced ranger.

2 nights · safari tent · full board Tangala, a small, intimate safari camp, is located in the 11,500-hectare Thornybush Private Nature Reserve, bordering Kruger National Park. It is an area home to abundant wildlife, including the "Big Five". The accommodation consists of 4 chalets and 6 safari tents with a private terrace, each with a bathroom with shower. The furnishings are rustic and reminiscent of the era of "colonial Africa". The camp has no electricity; kerosene lanterns provide romantic, flickering light, and gas boilers ensure hot water at all times. The camp has a boma with a traditional fire pit, a lounge, a bar, a swimming pool and a sun deck overlooking a waterhole, as well as a wildlife hide. Enjoy a truly African dinner under the starry sky (weather permitting). Brunch, high tea, dinner and tea/coffee are included. Twice a day, game drives (included) are undertaken in an open 4x4 vehicle with an experienced ranger.

Today you enjoy unique game-viewing activities. A must on any South Africa trip – today the "Big Five" are on the programme. The Thornybush Game Reserve, located in the heart of the Limpopo Lowveld in South Africa, is a private game reserve bordering Kruger National Park. Covering an area of 11,500 hectares, it offers breathtaking scenery with diverse habitats, including savannahs, woodlands and rivers. The reserve is known for its rich wildlife, including the Big Five (elephant, lion, leopard, rhino and buffalo) as well as numerous other mammals, birds and reptiles. Visitors can observe these fascinating animals in their natural environment on game drives with experienced rangers.

This morning you go on one last game drive before crossing the border into Mozambique. Adventurous roads take you to the Massingir Dam. It is an impressive structure and an important water resource for the country. Built in the 1970s, the dam holds back the Rio dos Elefantes (Elephant River) and forms Lake Massingir, a huge reservoir covering more than 2,000 square kilometres. The Covane Community Lodge is owned by the local Canhane community near the Mozambican town of Massingir. After arriving at the lodge, you can take a boat trip on the reservoir.

1 night · double room · with breakfast The Covane Community Lodge is quietly located above the Massingir Dam in southern Mozambique and is an ideal base for exploring Limpopo National Park. The small lodge, run by the local community, combines close-to-nature accommodation with a sustainable tourism concept in which the local population benefits directly from tourism. The cosy chalets and traditional round huts blend harmoniously into the landscape and offer a beautiful view of the lake. Guests can discover the surroundings on boat trips, birdwatching or village visits, gaining authentic insights into the lives of the local people. The relaxed atmosphere and attractive location make the lodge a special stopover on a trip through Mozambique.

Your South Africa and Mozambique trip continues towards the Indian Ocean. You pass charming villages and landscapes. You stay at the beautiful Naara Eco Lodge, an oasis on the coast of Mozambique. Naara was built on the shore of Lake Nhambavale in Chidenguele, overlooking unspoilt dune forests in the midst of the native African bush, and is a unique place.

2 nights · luxury tent · with breakfast The Naara Eco Lodge is nestled in an unspoilt lagoon landscape on the coast of Mozambique and combines close-to-nature accommodation with sustainable comfort. The spacious safari tents and chalets stand on wooden platforms and offer a wonderful view of the lagoon or the surrounding bush. The secluded location creates ideal conditions for relaxation and intense nature experiences. Activities on offer include kayak tours, boat trips, stand-up paddling, birdwatching and excursions to the nearby beach on the Indian Ocean. The open restaurant serves fresh regional dishes and rounds off the relaxed ambience of the lodge. The Naara Eco Lodge is particularly suitable for travellers who want to experience peace, sustainability and Mozambique's diverse nature away from the well-known tourist spots.

Chidenguele, located on the coast of Inhambane Province in Mozambique, is a paradise for beach lovers and nature lovers. Far from mass tourism, the village offers an authentic Mozambican atmosphere, breathtaking landscapes and a wide range of activities. The colourful coral reefs off the coast of Chidenguele are a paradise for divers and snorkellers. Discover a wide variety of tropical fish, corals and other marine life. Take a boat trip on Lake Nhambavale, a freshwater lake near Chidenguele. Watch hippos, crocodiles and a wide variety of birds. The area around Chidenguele also offers several hiking trails through mangrove forests, dunes and savannahs. Discover the region's unique flora and fauna.

Your round trip continues to Inhambane. Located on Inhambane Bay, about 470 kilometres north-east of Maputo, the town tempts with a fascinating mix of history, culture, dream beaches and breathtaking nature. Inhambane looks back on a long and eventful past. As early as the 11th century, dhows traded here, and in the 16th century Portuguese seafarers founded a settlement. The town still bears witness to this diverse heritage. Visit the historic old town with its colonial buildings, admire the magnificent cathedral or immerse yourself in local culture at the lively market. Inhambane is known above all for its dream beaches. Kilometres of white sand, turquoise water and lush palms line the coast and provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and adventure. Whether sunbathing, swimming, snorkelling or diving – every water sports enthusiast will find their paradise here.

2 nights · Ocean Front Deluxe · full board The Massinga Beach Lodge sits in a dune landscape above the Indian Ocean on the coast of Mozambique. The stylish chalets and suites offer plenty of privacy and a wonderful view of the sea. A wooden boardwalk leads guests directly to a long, almost deserted sandy beach that invites you to take walks and spend relaxing hours by the water. An infinity pool, a restaurant with fresh regional specialities and the quiet atmosphere make the lodge an ideal place to switch off. Depending on the season, activities such as snorkelling, deep-sea fishing, whale watching or boat trips are also offered. The lodge is particularly suitable for travellers who want to enjoy nature, relaxation and exclusive comfort in a remote setting.

Tofo Beach in Mozambique is a dream destination for anyone longing for relaxation and adventure. The small village on the country's south-east coast offers a breathtaking backdrop and a wide range of activities for every taste. The kilometres-long sandy beach of Tofo invites you to sunbathe and swim. The gentle waves are ideal for families with children, while surfers also get their money's worth on some sections. The true beauty of Tofo, however, lies beneath the surface of the water. The coral reef off the coast is home to an incredible variety of marine life. Divers and snorkellers can see mantas, whale sharks, dolphins and countless colourful fish here. Several dive schools in the village offer courses and guided dives.

After breakfast you set off north. You drive to Vilanculos. Vilanculos is a coastal gem that combines relaxation, adventure and breathtaking natural beauty. Known as the gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago, the town attracts visitors with its unspoilt beaches, crystal-clear water and diverse underwater world. The coast of Vilanculos offers kilometres of powdery white sandy beaches that invite you to sunbathe, swim and stroll. The main beach, Praia de Vilanculos, impresses with its turquoise water and numerous restaurants and bars that create a lively atmosphere. In the surrounding area, quieter bays invite you to relax and explore. Vilanculos offers insights into local culture. Visit the market to buy fresh produce and handicrafts, or try the delicious Mozambican cuisine, which includes fresh fish, seafood and cashew nuts.

3 nights · bungalow · with breakfast The Vilanculos Beach Lodge lies right on the long sandy beach of Vilanculos on the coast of Mozambique and offers beautiful views of the Indian Ocean and the offshore islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago. The small lodge combines a relaxed beach atmosphere with modern comfort. The rooms and chalets are bright and friendly and have private terraces or balconies overlooking the garden or the sea. Natural materials, warm colours and open areas create a pleasant and calm atmosphere. The grounds include a pool area, several outdoor seating areas and a restaurant facing the ocean. Especially in the early morning and at sunset, a very relaxed mood develops here right by the sea.

You can visit the famous Bazaruto Archipelago. The Bazaruto Archipelago, off the coast of Vilanculos, consists of five islands that are a paradise for divers and snorkellers. Coral reefs full of colourful fish, manta rays, whale sharks and turtles are waiting to be explored. Boat trips allow you to visit the islands and admire their unique beauty.

You continue towards Maputo, stopping in Xai-Xai along the way. Xai-Xai is a lively town with a unique charm shaped by its mix of Portuguese heritage and African culture. Originally known as João Belo, the town was renamed in 1976 to strengthen its Mozambican identity. The area around Xai-Xai offers breathtaking natural landscapes waiting to be explored. The Limpopo River, which flows into the Indian Ocean near the town, provides a habitat for diverse wildlife. Take a boat trip on the river and watch crocodiles, hippos and various bird species.

1 night · house · no meals Breakfast available at the on-site restaurant The Reef Resort lies right on the long sandy beach of Xai-Xai on Mozambique's south coast and offers ideal conditions for a relaxing stay by the Indian Ocean. The comfortable rooms, chalets and holiday houses are spread across extensive gardens and are just a few steps from the sea. The offshore coral reef shelters part of the bay from high waves and creates natural tidal pools that are perfect for bathing. Guests can relax by the pool, enjoy fresh seafood in the restaurant or explore the area with activities such as snorkelling, fishing and beach walks. The resort is a good choice for families, couples and self-drive travellers looking for a combination of relaxation, beach and nature on their trip through Mozambique.

On your trip through Mozambique you visit the capital, Maputo. Maputo is a fascinating metropolis that combines African joie de vivre with colonial heritage and a Mediterranean flair. Located on the coast of the Indian Ocean, the city impresses with a breathtaking seafront promenade, colourful markets, impressive architecture and a warm atmosphere. Stroll through the "Baixa", Maputo's old town, and admire the magnificent buildings from the Portuguese colonial era. Visit the "Nossa Senhora da Conceição" fortress, built in the 18th century, and immerse yourself in the city's eventful past.

1 night · double room · with breakfast The Southern Sun Maputo is an elegant beach hotel on the seafront promenade of the Mozambican capital. Located right on the Indian Ocean, it offers bright, modern rooms with sea views and a pleasant mix of urban comfort and relaxed beach atmosphere. The hotel has a well-kept pool area with direct access to the waterfront promenade, a good restaurant serving international and local cuisine and a stylish bar that is ideal for a sundowner. Thanks to its location, the Southern Sun is suitable both as a base for sightseeing in Maputo – such as the Mercado Central, the railway station or the colonial city centre – and as a comfortable stopover before or after a beach stay. With its friendly service, modern facilities and excellent waterfront location, the Southern Sun Maputo is an ideal address for travellers who want to combine relaxation with a city experience.

Today it's time to say goodbye to Mozambique. You cross the border into Eswatini (formerly Swaziland). The Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is Eswatini's oldest and at the same time best-known protected area. Located in the Ezulwini Valley near the capital Lobamba, it offers a varied landscape and rich wildlife across 4,560 hectares. Founded in 1960, Mlilwane is characterised by a unique public-private partnership. Initiated by Ted Reilly on his farm, it was declared a protected area four years later. Since then it has served as a model for nature conservation and sustainable tourism.

2 nights · garden cottage · with breakfast Reilly's Rock Hilltop Lodge is located in the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary in Eswatini and is one of the country's most traditional places to stay. The historic lodge sits high on a hill and offers wide views over the open grassland, forests and mountains of the sanctuary. Its secluded location creates a quiet, almost timeless atmosphere that is perfect for nature lovers. The main house and the free-standing cottages are in colonial style and combine nostalgic charm with cosy comfort. The large garden around the lodge is home to numerous species – including rare antelopes such as oribi and blesbok as well as many bird species. The animals can often be observed right from the lodge grounds. Reilly's Rock is an ideal base for activities in the Mlilwane sanctuary: hikes, mountain bike tours and wildlife viewing can be arranged flexibly here. As the reserve is largely free of dangerous predators, you can move around independently and safely on foot. The warm atmosphere, the historic flair and the natural surroundings make this lodge a special retreat amid Eswatini's mountainous landscape.

Mlilwane offers a wide range of activities for nature lovers and adventurers. Game drives in an open 4x4 let you watch the animals up close. Hiking and cycling on marked trails offer the chance to explore the landscape at your own pace.

You cross the border into South Africa, drop off your rental car in Johannesburg and begin your journey home. We hope you had an unforgettable trip through South Africa, Eswatini and Mozambique. SOUTH AFRICA & MOZAMBIQUE ON YOUR OWN.