From Johannesburg: 6-Day Safari to Kruger & Mozambique

Traveling through Southern Africa on a 6-day guided safari offers a mix of wildlife encounters, coastal relaxation, and cultural insights. While we haven’t done this exact trip ourselves, it’s packed with highlights that make it stand out—like seeing the Big Five in Kruger, relaxing on Mozambique’s pristine beaches, and exploring Lesotho’s mountain passes.

What we love about this tour: it offers a well-rounded experience with diverse landscapes and activities, from game drives to cultural visits. Plus, the inclusion of Mozambique’s beaches and the Sani Pass adventure adds a unique twist. The only thing to consider might be the packed itinerary which demands a good level of stamina and flexibility.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who want a taste of everything—from wildlife and beaches to mountain cultures—in a relatively short time. It balances guided comfort with authentic experiences, making it appealing for first-timers eager to explore Southern Africa’s highlights.

Key Points

• Diverse Destinations: Combines wildlife safaris, coastal beaches, and cultural visits across four countries.
• Wildlife Encounters: Multiple game drives including Kruger National Park and Hlane Royal National Park.
• Beach Relaxation: Time at Praia do Bilene offers a peaceful seaside break.
• Cultural Experiences: Visit to Eswatini’s Matenga Cultural Village and Lesotho villages.
• Stunning Views: Mountain scenery from Sani Pass and Drakensberg mountains.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Guided tours, entrance fees, transportation, with accommodation on B&B basis.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Overview of the Itinerary

Day 1: Johannesburg to Kruger & Mozambique

The adventure kicks off with an early pickup in Johannesburg, setting the tone for an action-packed week. The first game drive in Kruger’s southern region is a highlight, giving you your first glimpses of elephants, lions, rhinos, buffalo, and leopards. Experienced guides, like those praised in reviews, help you spot wildlife you might otherwise miss.

Crossing into Mozambique later in the day, you arrive in Maputo, staying at StayEasy Maputo. This transition from safari to city highlights the tour’s diversity. Travelers note the convenience of border crossing assistance, which makes the crossing smoother, especially for those unfamiliar with international borders in Africa.

Day 2: Beach Day at Praia do Bilene & Maputo City Tour

After breakfast, the focus shifts to relaxation at Praia do Bilene. This coastal town is renowned for its white sandy beaches and calm lagoon—ideal for unwinding and dipping your toes in warm water. It’s a quieter contrast to the safari, and reviewers mention the perfect opportunity to enjoy swimming and sunbathing.

In the afternoon, you explore Maputo’s vibrant streets, markets, and historical sites like the Fortaleza de Maputo and the Railway Station. These visits offer a glimpse into Mozambique’s colonial past and lively local culture—allowing a deeper appreciation of the country beyond the beaches.

Day 3: Eswatini Cultural & Wildlife Experience

Early morning departure takes you into Eswatini, a country often overlooked but rich in traditions. The game drive at Hlane Royal National Park is a chance to see lions, rhinos, and elephants up close, with many travelers mentioning the thrill of spotting these majestic animals in their natural habitat.

A visit to Matenga Cultural Village is equally memorable, with traditional dances and insights into Swazi customs. The stop at Matenga Waterfall provides scenic views and a refreshing break. Travelers have noted the guide’s knowledge and the authenticity of the cultural experience, making this a highlight for those interested in local traditions.

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Day 4: Boat Cruise at St Lucia Estuary & Transfer to Pietermaritzburg

Departing early from Milwane Wildlife Sanctuary, you head south to St Lucia. The boat cruise on the Estuary is a favorite, with the chance to see hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife from close range. The experience is often praised for its relaxed pace and incredible wildlife sightings, making it a peaceful yet exciting part of the trip.

Afterward, you check into a hotel in Pietermaritzburg, providing a restful stop before the next mountain adventure.

Day 5: Sani Pass & Lesotho

This day is an adventure in itself. Starting early, you head to Underberg, then embark on a guided 4×4 trip over the legendary Sani Pass—a highlight for many travelers. The views from the top are genuinely jaw-dropping, and crossing into Lesotho offers a glimpse into mountain life.

A visit to a local Basotho village deepens the culture, and lunch at the Highest Pub in Southern Africa offers panoramic vistas that keep everyone’s cameras busy. The return to Underberg wraps up a day filled with mountain scenery and local stories, frequently described as a “bucket list moment” by previous guests.

Day 6: Waterfalls, Mandela & Durban

The last day includes a visit to Howick Falls, with its impressive 95-meter cascade, perfect for photos and reflection. The Nelson Mandela Capture Site offers a historical perspective on South Africa’s recent past, with many noting the powerful symbolism of the site.

The tour concludes in Durban with an afternoon city tour—covering the Golden Mile, Durban Botanical Gardens, and vibrant markets. It’s a fitting end for a trip that balances wildlife, culture, and city life. Drop-offs are flexible, including Durban hotels or the airport.

Overall Value and What It Means for Travelers

This 6-day tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of Southern Africa’s diverse landscapes and cultures at a price of $2,818 per person. When considering the number of countries visited, the variety of activities, and included guided tours, it provides solid value for an adventurous traveler. Accommodation on a bed & breakfast basis keeps things simple but comfortable, and transportation in air-conditioned vehicles ensures travel remains comfortable despite long drives.

The inclusion of activities like game drives, cultural visits, and a boat cruise means you’re not just observing but actively engaging with each environment. The border crossings are managed smoothly, which is a significant plus when traveling through multiple countries.

However, keep in mind that the schedule is tight and packed. If you prefer a slower pace with more days dedicated to each location, this might feel rushed. Also, the trip is not suitable for wheelchair users, given the nature of some activities and terrain.

This tour suits active travelers eager to see a lot in a short time, especially those interested in wildlife, cultural traditions, and scenic mountain views. It’s a great option if you want a guided, all-inclusive experience that covers both safari adventures and coastal relaxations without the hassle of planning every step.

FAQ

What countries are visited on this tour?
The trip includes stops in South Africa (Kruger, Durban, St Lucia), Mozambique (Maputo, Praia do Bilene), Eswatini, and Lesotho, offering a broad cross-section of Southern Africa.

Are accommodations comfortable?
Yes, accommodations are on a bed & breakfast basis, with stays at StayEasy Maputo, and lodges like Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary. Guests describe them as functional and cozy, with some noting the convenience of central locations.

Is transportation provided?
Transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is appreciated in the heat and long drives. The group size isn’t specified but guided tours typically keep it manageable for personal attention.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see the “Big Five” (lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, leopard) in Kruger and Hlane parks. Hippos and crocodiles are common in the boat cruise at St Lucia, and elephants and birds are frequent in the parks.

Can I relax on this trip?
Absolutely. Praia do Bilene provides downtime to swim and relax on the beach, and the boat cruise offers a calm yet engaging wildlife experience.

What cultural experiences are included?
Visits to the Matenga Cultural Village and Basotho village offer authentic insights into local traditions, dance, and crafts.

Is there any free time?
Most days are filled with scheduled activities, but some downtime is available during beach visits and in the evenings at lodges.

Are border crossings complicated?
Border crossing assistance is included, which simplifies the process. Reviewers mention the process is smooth, even for those unfamiliar with crossing borders in Africa.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Given the nature of activities and terrain, it’s best suited for active adults. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and involves some long drives and physical activity.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day guided safari offers a well-rounded look at Southern Africa’s wildlife, cultural heritage, and coastal beauty in a single trip. It’s a fantastic option for those who want to pack a lot into a week, balancing adventure with comfort. Whether you’re eager to spot the Big Five, relax on Mozambique’s beaches, or explore mountain villages, this tour delivers.

While the itinerary is intensive, the variety keeps the experience engaging and dynamic. The inclusion of guided activities and border support takes some stress out of multi-country travel, making it a practical choice for first-timers or those wanting a seamless adventure.

This tour represents a good value for explorers hungry for diverse experiences—wildlife, culture, and scenery—all wrapped into one memorable journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: