Bush and Beach

Bush and Beach

23 Views
6 Days From

$3583

Bush and Beach

6 Days Starting and ending in Durban, South Africa

Visiting: Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, Maputaland, Durban

Tour operator:

ATC South Africa

Tour code:

908247

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

VERY_EASY

Age range:

10-

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Safari Tours

Activities:

4WD, Snorkeling

From: $3583 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 28-Mar-2025 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through South Africa with the "Bush and Beach" tour, where wildlife and coastal beauty converge. Begin your adventure at the renowned Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, home to the Big Five and a sanctuary for rhinos, offering thrilling safari drives guided by expert rangers. Experience the diverse ecosystems and witness the park's commitment to conservation. Transition to the serene Maputaland Coastline, where the Indian Ocean's azure waves invite you to explore pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. Enjoy activities like guided snorkeling, forest walks, and cultural tours, or simply relax in the tranquil surroundings. With five nights of superior accommodation and all meals included, this tour promises a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, showcasing the best of South Africa's natural wonders.

Highlights

  • Zululand Rhino Reserve: Home to over 70 mammal species, focusing on rhino conservation.

  • Explore diverse habitats and encounter wildlife such as lions, elephants, and leopards.

  • Maputaland: A lush coastal region known for its dense vegetation and rich biodiversity.

  • Experience the vibrant waters of the Indian Ocean along the Maputaland coastline.

  • Guided snorkeling and forest walks available at Thonga Beach Lodge.

  • Turtle tracking walks on the beaches of Maputaland (November to February).

  • Enjoy a sundowner experience at Lake Sibaya.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : ARRIVAL DURBAN – HLUHLUWE–IMFOLOZI PARK (210km – 2.5 hrs)

Location: Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park

Accommodation Name: Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Welcome to beautiful South Africa! Upon arrival at Durban’s King Shaka International Airport, you will be met by the driver and transferred to your accommodation. Drive towards the Dolphin Coast. The dolphins playing in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean have named this part of the coast. They follow the sardine’s schools and can be spotted at different places depending on the season. Numerous beach resorts are nestled along those wonderful beaches. However, next to tourism, the sugarcane industry is the backbone of this area. Today’s destination is the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi National Park, the oldest game reserve in South Africa. It covers 96.000 hectares. The wide range of plant life leads to a diversity of mammals, birdlife, reptiles and amphibians. Besides the big five - elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo and rhino - there are elusive cheetahs, rare wild dogs, several antelopes and other bush inhabitants offering visitors an excellent game viewing experience. The park contains some of the largest concentrations of black and white rhinos in the world and more than 300 bird species which make it a bird watcher’s paradise. The game reserve offers visitors self-guided walks and countless routes for game drives. Viewing hides overlook pans and waterholes enabling visitors to see animals at close range. Check in to your lodge and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park.

Day 2 : HLUHLUWE–IMFOLOZI PARK

Location: Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park

Accommodation Name: Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Start your day with an exciting game drive conducted in open safari vehicles, guided by experienced rangers, who know where and how to find the Big Five. The Safari drive enables you to experience close encounters and unforgettable moments with various animals. During the outing, your Ranger will explain the flora and fauna of the bush and the way of living of the various animals. Enjoy a tasty cup of coffee during a break in the bush at one of the scenic spots. Upon your return to the Lodge, a substantial breakfast is served. At approximately 4 o’clock, afternoon tea and home-baked treats are served at the Lodge. You will then embark on a late afternoon Safari drive in an open 4x4 vehicle with your Ranger. After a traditional Sundowner at a scenic location, the Safari drive continues into the dusk. A delicious dinner is served in the lodge’s dining area, or in an animal-safe enclosure under the stars of South Africa’s night sky.

Overnight in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park.


Day 3 : HLUHLUWE–IMFOLOZI PARK – MAPUTALAND COASTLINE (200km – 4 hrs)

Location: Maputaland

Accommodation Name: Thonga Beach Lodge or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


After another exhilarating early morning game drive, enjoy breakfast at the lodge before making your way to Maputaland’s finest coastline. Expect a small piece of paradise with the Indian Ocean waves calling you for a swim, snorkelling or scuba diving adventure (not included). Enjoy the spectacular landscape en route and discover one of South Africa’s last stretches of untouched coastline with its many pristine beaches, home to a vast array of land-based and marine wildlife. Arrive at your lodge and spend the rest of the day planning your upcoming adventures. The lodge offers a variety of unique experiences, including guided snorkelling and use of snorkelling equipment, guided forest walks, guided kayaking on Lake Sibaya, a cultural tour to the Mabibi community, turtle tracking walks (Nov - Feb) and sundowner experience at Lake Sibaya. Make the most of your time and immerse yourself in all the lodge has to offer!

Overnight in Maputaland.


Day 4 : MAPUTALAND COASTLINE

Location: Maputaland

Accommodation Name: Thonga Beach Lodge or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Begin your day with a tasty breakfast and enjoy the day at leisure.  During the months of November to February, the lodge organizes low-tide trips for turtle tracks. On your turtle-tracking safari, one question your guide cannot answer is how these creatures navigate thousands of sea miles and return each year, instinctively to the same beaches where they hatched. Patience and luck are required when tracking sea turtles. Tours commence in the late afternoon, or after sunset. Operators may only be on the beaches two hours before, and two hours after low tide, meaning tours can last from two to seven hours.

Overnight in Maputaland.


Day 5 : MAPUTALAND COASTLINE

Location: Maputaland

Accommodation Name: Thonga Beach Lodge or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Spend another day at leisure along the stunning Maputaland coastline, where the warm waters of the Indian Ocean meet pristine, untouched beaches. Stroll along the golden sands, explore the diverse marine life in the vibrant coral reefs, or relax under the shade of coastal forests, listening to the soothing sound of the waves. For the adventurous, there are opportunities for snorkeling, kayaking, or bird-watching in the nearby wetlands, rich with unique wildlife. 

Overnight in Maputaland.

Day 6 : MAPUTALAND COASTLINE – DEPART DURBAN (350km – 5 hrs)

Location: Durban

Meals Included: Breakfast


After a tasty breakfast, travel back to the airport, where you check in for your flight back home or continue your South African journey with your next adventure. 


What's Included

  • Tour Guide

    An English-speaking specialized wildlife ranger will accompany you during the safari game drives.

  • Accommodation

    5 nights accommodation is included in the tour package.

  • Meals

    The tour includes 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 5 dinners.

  • Transport

    Arrival and departure transfers are provided, along with a 4x4 safari vehicle for game drives.

  • Entrance Fees and Activities

    All entrance fees and activities indicated in the itinerary are included, such as scheduled safari activities at Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park and activities at Thonga Beach Lodge.

  • Other

    Meet & Greet service is included in the tour package.

What's Not Included

  • Flights and Visa

    International or domestic flight tickets, airport taxes, or visa fees are not included.

  • Beverages

    Beverages during meals are not included in the tour package.

  • Insurance

    Personal travel, baggage, and medical insurance are not included.

  • Optional Excursions

    Optional excursions and activities are not included in the tour package.

  • Personal Expenses

    Expenses of a personal nature, drinks, and meals not explicitly stated in the programme are not included.

  • Porterage

    Porterage services are not included in the tour package.

Mode of Transport

The tour includes arrival and departure transfers, as well as game drives in a 4x4 safari vehicle, ensuring a comfortable and adventurous journey through the stunning landscapes of South Africa.

Accommodation

Enjoy 5 nights of superior accommodation, with the first two nights at Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge or similar in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, and the next three nights at Thonga Beach Lodge or similar along the Maputaland Coast.

Requirements

Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in South Africa. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.

Please Note

  • The activities available at Thonga Beach Lodge are provided at no extra charge and must be booked directly at the Lodge
  • It is compulsory to sign an indemnity form when entering South African National Parks. More information in the regulation and the parks can also be found on the official SANPARKS website: www.sanparks.org
  • Please note that local conditions prevalent at the time of travel may result in modifications to the tour contents without prior notice.

Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1-2 Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park:

  • Superior Hotel Category = Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge or similar

Day 3-5 Maputaland Coast

  • Superior Hotel Category = Thonga Beach Lodge or similar



Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of wildlife can I expect to see during the safari game drives?

    During the safari game drives, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife including the Big Five: elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, and rhino. Additionally, there are elusive cheetahs, rare wild dogs, several antelopes, and other bush inhabitants. The park also contains some of the largest concentrations of black and white rhinos in the world and more than 300 bird species.

  • What activities are available at the Thonga Beach Lodge?

    At the Thonga Beach Lodge, you can enjoy guided snorkeling and use of snorkeling equipment, guided forest walks, guided kayaking on Lake Sibaya, a cultural tour to the Mabibi community, turtle tracking walks (from November to February), and a sundowner experience at Lake Sibaya.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, the tour package includes 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 5 dinners.

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides accommodation in superior hotel categories. For days 1-2, you will stay at the Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge or a similar lodge in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park. For days 3-5, accommodation is at the Thonga Beach Lodge or a similar lodge on the Maputaland Coast.

  • Is there a guide provided during the safari game drives?

    Yes, an English-speaking specialized wildlife ranger will guide you during the safari game drives.

  • What is the transportation arrangement for the tour?

    The tour includes arrival and departure transfers, and a 4x4 safari vehicle is used for game drives.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.

  • Do you offer any travel insurance?

    We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure. 

  • What does the price include?

    What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.

  • When are there specific hotel names confirmed?

    Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client's arrival

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers

  • Are Visa fees included in the price?

    No, visa fees are not included

  • Are flights included in the tour?

    No, they are not included

  • Is there any option for solo traveller?

    Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.

1 Select your preferred date

Tuesday - Sunday

May 13, 2025 - May 18, 2025
$3583 (USD)

Wednesday - Monday

May 14, 2025 - May 19, 2025
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Thursday - Tuesday

May 15, 2025 - May 20, 2025
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Friday - Wednesday

May 16, 2025 - May 21, 2025
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Saturday - Thursday

May 17, 2025 - May 22, 2025
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Sunday - Friday

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Monday - Saturday

May 19, 2025 - May 24, 2025
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Tuesday - Sunday

May 20, 2025 - May 25, 2025
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Wednesday - Monday

May 21, 2025 - May 26, 2025
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Thursday - Tuesday

May 22, 2025 - May 27, 2025
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Friday - Wednesday

May 23, 2025 - May 28, 2025
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Saturday - Thursday

May 24, 2025 - May 29, 2025
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Sunday - Friday

May 25, 2025 - May 30, 2025
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Monday - Saturday

May 26, 2025 - May 31, 2025
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Tuesday - Sunday

May 27, 2025 - Jun 01, 2025
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Wednesday - Monday

May 28, 2025 - Jun 02, 2025
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Thursday - Tuesday

May 29, 2025 - Jun 03, 2025
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Friday - Wednesday

May 30, 2025 - Jun 04, 2025
$3583 (USD)

Saturday - Thursday

May 31, 2025 - Jun 05, 2025
$3583 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    ATC South Africa requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of atc south africa charges.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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