I had the amazing opportunity to explore Mozambique and had the most fantastic time! I think it is truly a hidden gem on the African coast and in terms of cost one of the most affordable beach destinations in Africa.
What makes this journey truly amazing is the combination of Bush and Beach. We started in Johannesburg and headed for Swaziland. We spent two nights at Hlane Royal National Park and camped so close to the waterhole you could hear the animals walking around like they were right next to your tent. And let me tell you, hearing a lion roar is something to experience but it makes you think twice about walking to the bathroom alone in the dark. :)
From Swaziland we headed north east into Mozambique and prayed for a reprieve from the heat. I couldn’t wait to get to the beaches of Mozambique. We were heading for Tofu on the southern coast of Mozambique. It was the longest travelling day on our itinerary and but what awaited us made sure we had all forgotten about the bumpy roads and the heat.
We spend our first few nights on the beach at Tofu and certainly got into the island lifestyle of doing things in no hurry. The beaches are amazing and the people are friendly and did I mention how cheap everything is??? The Whale Shark Diving Safari was not to be missed - man, those things are huge! And not interested in us at all (which I was thankful for)!.
Inhambane was next and we headed for the Bazuruto Archipelago for a few days to do some island hopping with our trusty Dhow. Nothing could prepare me for the clarity of the water and sheer beauty of what I witnessed from our slow cruising boat. We spent our days playing in the water, swimming, and snorkeling with our 3 guides cooking us lunch on the beach while we were basking in sun. I couldn’t have asked for anything better.
Sadly it was almost time to leave Mozambique and end our journey in the world famous Kruger National Park back over the border in South Africa. It was a sharp contrast coming from white sandy beaches of Mozambique and heading into the bush. However the Kruger is another kind of beauty you could only fully appreciate once you are there. 4 days of exploring the Kruger, spotting so many animals, and always on the lookout for the illusive leopard.
We set up camp every night and swapped stories and photos of the day’s events. The last night in the Kruger we spend at the Timbavati Lodge outside the park and that bar, sparkling swimming pool and comfy bed was just what we needed to send us off home from the one of the best experiences of my life.
Mozambique is definitely a place I would return to. If you are looking for an amazing beach holiday with a safari twist I definitely suggest a trip to Mozambique.
Happy Trails!
Dayne
