Mozambique & South Africa

Mozambique & South Africa | 13 DAYS | FROM $17,490
DEPARTS August 15 2025
WITH rich Pagen & Chris Stamper

Explore two incredible safari destinations on one trip: Gorongosa National Park in Mozambique and the Greater Kruger region of South Africa. Gorongosa, a conservation success story, is now one of the world's most biodiverse places. With few visitors compared to other parks, the vast wilderness of Gorongosa offers an intimate and authentic safari experience far from the crowds. Then, experience two ecosystems in Greater Kruger: Makuleke Contractual Park in the north and Mala Mala Game Reserve between Kruger National Park and Sabi Sand Game Reserve. Each area boasts unique, picturesque habitats teeming with diverse African wildlife. Join expert naturalists for morning and afternoon safaris to witness these wonders up close.

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Three moments you’ll never forget

At Gorongosa National Park, every moment is a thrilling encounter with wildlife. Beyond the iconic elephants, lions, hippos, and crocodiles, you'll also have the chance to spot the elusive African wild dogs and a rich array of antelope species, such as waterbuck, nyala, kudu, bushbuck, impala, oribi, and sable antelope.

Embark on a thrilling Mala Mala adventure by Land Rover, capturing the essence of this legendary landscape. With an abundance of wildlife, including the iconic Big Five—elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, and rhino, and the proximity to the Sand and Sabie Rivers, prepare for unrivaled wildlife moments around every corner.

End your exhilarating day in the bush by returning to camp, where we gather around the crackling campfire to share our adventures, creating unforgettable memories beneath the starry night sky.

Go With

Naturalist

Go with Rich

Naturalist

Rich’s serious love for all things nature have propelled him throughout the world. He’s spent just some of his life tagging sea turtles, teaching marine science, and spying on Arctic seabirds.

Naturalist

SAFARI GUIDE

Go with Chris

SAFARI GUIDE

Chris began his career as a professional safari guide in the game-rich areas of South Africa 21 years ago. His fervent admiration for nature—as well as his skill for tracking and observing wildlife—will keep you captivated and well-informed, and eager to see more.

SAFARI GUIDE

DAY 1

Johannesburg, South Africa

Arrive in Johannesburg and transfer to the InterContinental O.R. Tambo Airport Hotel. After a chance to freshen up, join your expeditions leaders and fellow travelers for a welcome dinner at the hotel.

DAY 2

Johannesburg / Beira / Gorongosa National Park, Mozambique

After breakfast, board our flight to Mozambique. Upon arrival, depart overland to Gorongosa National Park, located at the southern end of the Great Rift Valley. With an eye toward sustainable tourism and minimal environmental impact, camps here are small, many with just a handful of tents. Our group will be split between Muzimu Tented Camp and Wild Camp, both of which provide airy tents set in the heart of the wilderness.

DAY 3–5

Gorongosa National Park

Enjoy daily safaris to spot abundant wildlife in the park. Beyond iconic species like elephants, lions, hippos, and crocodiles, you'll also find African wild dogs and various antelope species like waterbuck, nyala, kudu, bushbuck, impala, oribi, and sable antelope. With over 300 recorded bird species, you might spot African fish eagles, green-headed orioles, gray-crowned cranes, Goliath herons, red-necked spurfowl, and vibrant lilac-breasted rollers. After thrilling bush adventures, return to camp for campfire tales and dinner beneath the stars.

DAY 6

Gorongosa National Park / Beira / Kruger National Park (Pafuri), South Africa

Time permitting, embark on a morning safari before returning to Beira to catch our flight to South Africa. Transfer to Pafuri Tented Camp, set in Makuleke Contractual Park in the northernmost section of Kruger between the Limpopo and Luvuvhu rivers. Check in to your luxurious tent, set on a raised wooden platform, and perhaps take a rest on your own private veranda.

DAY 7–8

Kruger National Park (Pafuri)

This area of the park is geologically unique, offering diverse habitats and extraordinary scenic beauty, making it one of Kruger's most biodiverse regions. It's home to nearly three-quarters of the park's bird, mammal, fish, amphibian, reptile, and tree species. Makuleke boasts over 350 bird species, attracting birdwatchers from across southern Africa. Embark on daily game drives to explore various habitats, searching for species like hippos, crocodiles, eland, grysbok, and elephants. In the evening, join a spotlighting drive to see nocturnal creatures such as bush babies, genets, and civets. You'll also have the chance for a guided bush walk to get close to the region's smaller inhabitants.

DAY 9

Kruger National Park / Mala Mala

After morning activities and breakfast, take a charter flight to Mala Mala, a premier Big Five reserve between Kruger and Sabi Sand. Check in at Mala Mala Camp, offering luxurious bushveld views. Enjoy the infinity pool, Buffalo Bar, or the air-conditioned library before your first game drive. Dine by the fire in a traditional reed "boma," then relax in your spacious thatched hut with stargazing from your veranda.

DAY 10–12

Mala Mala

Experience daily game drives in open Land Rovers, providing unrivaled views of the wildlife-rich landscape. This reserve is famous for its Big Five, including elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, and rhino, and its proximity to the Sand and Sabie Rivers ensures abundant water-based wildlife, enriching the variety of sightings.

DAY 13

Mala Mala / Johannesburg / Depart

Time permitting, enjoy one last game drive, then transfer to the air strip for our flight to Johannesburg and connect with your independent homeward flight. Or, continue your explorations on an optional post-extension to view annual Wild Flower Bloom and go whale watching in De Hoop Reserve.

Optional Post Extension

Wildlife & Wildflowers of the Western Cape

7 Nights | August 27 – September 3, 2025

Embark on a South African adventure starting at Grootbos eco-reserve near Gansbaai with nature walks, dining, and marine safaris. Continue to the Stellenbosch Wine Region, staying at Lanzerac Hotel, exploring vineyards, and enjoying a wine tour. Head north to Namaqua National Park, staying at Namaqua Nature Camp, to see the incredible wildflowers and unique plants of the region. Conclude with a drive to Cape Town for your departure, blending nature, luxury, and cultural exploration.

DAY 1

Mala Mala / Cape Town / Grootbos

Transfer from Mala Mala to Kruger Mpumalanga Airport for a flight to Cape Town, then drive south to Grootbos. Grootbos, a luxury eco-reserve, is located near Gansbaai and features 2,500 hectares of pristine wilderness.

DAY 2 & 3

Grootbos

Experience the natural beauty of Grootbos with guided nature walks, gourmet dining, and whale watching or marine safaris. Retreat each evening to the Forest Lodge with stunning views of Walker Bay and the Grootbos reserve.

DAY 4

Grootbos / Stellenbosch

Transfer to the renowned Stellenbosch Wine Region and check in at the Lanzerac Hotel. Lanzerac, with its stately Manor House and picturesque vineyards, is the perfect base for exploring Stellenbosch. In the afternoon, enjoy a visit to the Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden in the historical center of town.

DAY 5

Stellenbosch, Wine Region

Enjoy a full-day wine country tour with three exquisite wine tastings. Immerse yourself in the rich flavors and aromas of South Africa's esteemed Wine Region.

DAY 6

Stellenbosch / Namaqua National Park

Depart from Stellenbosch and head north to Namaqua National Park, enjoying breathtaking landscapes along the way. Check in to Namaqua Nature Camp. Located right on the beach, all tents have a captivating sea view and plenty of comfy spots for sundowners.

DAY 7

Namaqua National Park

Explore Namaqualand's vibrant wildflowers and unique plant species during its peak bloom season. Enjoy car viewpoints and hikes to see the stunning floral displays and, if lucky, spot the world's tiniest tortoise.

DAY 8

Namaqua National Park / Cape Town / Depart

Drive from Namaqua National Park to Cape Town, a scenic 6-hour journey. Upon arrival, transfer to the airport for evening flight departures to North America.

Trip details

August 15 – 27, 2025

Optional Post extension

August 27 – September 3, 2025

Departure

The trip starts and ends in Johannesburg, South Africa

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“There is nothing quite like an early morning game drive; the sky slowly turning orange, casting magnificent tree silhouettes. Being out with like-minded souls, open to whatever the wilderness reveals. Each outing is truly special and the more time we spend observing, the more we’ll discover. You'll find yourself endlessly fascinated by the natural changing of the guard, as daytime species wind down and nocturnal creatures come alive with the setting sun. Daytime and nighttime drives provide unique perspectives on the extraordinary bush of southern Africa. We eagerly anticipate exploring these diverse habitats and encountering some of Africa's most remarkable wildlife with you on this unique Mozambique and South Africa adventure.”

— Rich & Chris

Pafuri Tented Camp

Nineteen tented suites line the Luvuvhu River, connected by raised walkways. Each suite features a private deck, en-suite bathrooms with indoor and outdoor showers, and comfy beds with crisp linens. Enjoy the bush bar and a spacious swimming pool. Relax under the Jackalberry canopy.

MalaMala Camp

MalaMala, the original camp in MalaMala Game Reserve, has been beautifully revitalized, preserving its African charm with a modern twist. This luxurious haven offers top-notch comfort, impeccable service, and stunning views of Sand River and the bushveld. Nestled in the wild, it's an unfenced oasis, providing a peaceful retreat in the heart of nature.

Muzimu Lodge Gorongosa

This exclusive canvas lodge sits by the Mussicadzi River in Gorongosa National Park, at Africa's Great Rift Valley's southernmost tip. With six stylish canvas chalets, each with a private deck and en-suite bathroom, it offers a top-notch safari experience amid diverse ecosystems and landscapes.

Wild Camp Gorongosa

Experience an authentic bush adventure at Wild Camp Gorongosa in Gorongosa National Park. These camps, located in pristine wilderness areas, offer a unique connection to nature. Nestled in the park's heart, Gorongosa's Wild Camp combines resort-style comfort with eco-consciousness. Well-appointed tents provide a comfortable, memorable stay.