Seasons : Jan 16th - Mar  27th & Apr 8th - Dec 14th Accommodation : Ponta Malongane
  • Overview

  • Itinerary

  • Rates

  • Included

  • Excluded

  • Accommodation

  • Booking Terms

  • Sustainability

Explore the Beach and Bush of southern Mozambique's Maputo National Park – one of earth's richest eco-regions.

Stay 5-nights in a luxury eco-resort nestled among the sand dunes in the tropical bush, just a few steps away from the turquoise Indian Ocean.

This all-inclusive couples special package deal is for 2 people sharing a room over the low season (Jan 16th - Mar  27th & Apr 8th - Dec 14th) with airport road transfers and a choice of 3 guided safari activities provides a unique opportunity for nature lovers to view, and learn about, the endemic marine and land-based fauna and flora, from whale sharks to elephants, and seaweed to milkwood trees.

A map showing the route from Maputo to Ponta Membene Resort

Maputo  National Park falls within the Maputaland Centre of Plant Endemism, which is globally recognised for the rich biodiversity of its terrestrial, coastal and marine ecosystems.. With its distinctive flora and fauna and exceptional species richness, the Park is considered a biodiversity hotspot of regional and global importance and as such, a global priority for conservation.

The eco-friendly Membene Lodge is a gem of understated excellence nestled behind the dunes on the edge of the magnificent Indian Ocean.  A perfect venue for eco-consious tourists who want to experience pristine nature and, more importantly, to catalyse positive change by empowering and enriching the lives of local communities.

Itineraries

Day 1

Arrival and Transfer

Your journey begins from Maputo International Airport (MPM) at 14h00. You’ll be met and guided to a 4x4 vehicle for the scenic 108 km (about 2.5 hr) road transfer to the Futi Gate of Maputo National Park. From there, you'll check in at Ponta Membene Resort and be guided to a luxurious Dune, Forest or Hilltop Chalet, your home for the next 5 nights.

The Dune one-bedroom chalets (there are only 4 of them) are positioned on the lowest part of the coastal dune. Each chalet has a king-size bed, dining and living area, fully equipped open-plan kitchen, and an outdoor shower and fire pit (braai) area. From the west, you get the sunset dimming through the forest over the wetland, and from the east, you get the cool sea breeze and the sound of the ocean.

Settle in, relax or explore, then enjoy a 3-course dinner, either at your chalet or in the restaurant.

Days 2-3

Explore the Bush

Spend the day exploring the fauna and flora of the 1,040 km² Maputo National Park. The Park was inscribed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO on 14 July 2025. The park falls within the Maputaland Centre of Plant Endemism, which is globally recognised for the rich biodiversity of its terrestrial, coastal and marine ecosystems and its high levels of endemism.

Fauna species include over 400 African elephants, birds (kingfisher, fish eagle and many more), zebra, giraffe, wildebeest, buffalo, Nile crocodiles, hippos, and small bucks (red forest duiker, suni, reedbuck and steenbok).

Game drives can be booked at the tour/sightseeing desk (3 activities are included in this package deal).

Breakfasts feature a cold selection with fruits, yogurt, pastries, and more, complemented by a hot breakfast served with tea/coffee and fresh fruit juice. Lunches and dinners are presented as a three-course meal, skillfully prepared over an open fire. The chef customises a special menu daily, taking into consideration the dietary requirements of guests.

Days 4-5

Explore the Marine Biodiversity

Maputo National Park has a rich diversity of marine life and is the most important leatherback and loggerhead turtle nesting ground along the 2,500 km Mozambican coast. Leatherbacks are the largest sea turtles in the world and are classified as critically endangered by the World Conservation Union (IUCN), while loggerhead turtles have been classified as endangered.

During the turtle nesting months, typically between October and the end of March, the reserve management and turtle monitors undertake vehicle and foot patrols of the turtle nesting sites to monitor the nesting females and their hatchlings.

Whale sharks & manta rays tend to migrate along the coast when plankton bloom between October to March. Dugongs tend to remain in the shallow seagrass beds all year round but are most often seen between September to November.

Marine excursions, such as snorkeling or scuba diving, can be booked at the tour/sightseeing desk.

Day 6

Departure

After breakfast on your final day you'll check-out (by 10:00) and be transferred by road to Maputo airport arriving at around 13:00. Plan your departure flight for at least 3 hours after arrival to allow time for check-in and customs formalities.

$2,182

Per couple sharing

  • 5 Nights’ Accommodation at Ponta Membene
  • Return 4x4 Road Transfers from Maputo Airport
  • All Meals – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • All Drinks – Local beers, ciders & wine by the glass
  • Park Fees
  • 3 Guided Safari Experiences
  • Imported Drinks (premium alcohol brands)
  • Flights & Visas
  • Travel Insurance
  • Gratuities

 

Ponta Membene Resort

Accommodation:

  1. Couples stay in 1 bedroom chalets.
  2. Couples traveling together stay in the 2 bedroom chalets (sleep 4-6 guests).
  3. All chalets have private kitchens, dining and living areas, private bathrooms with outdoor showers, and outdoor fire pits (braai) areas.

Prime Location and Natural Beauty:

  1. Idyllic Coastal Forest Setting: Nestled in the heart of Maputo Special Reserve's coastal forest, just behind sand dunes and a few metres from a stunning white sand beach and turquoise sea.
  2. Pristine Beach Access: Enjoy kilometres of untouched, fine white sand beach and a crystal-clear turquoise sea right at your doorstep.
  3. Safe and Serene Swimming Environment: Indulge in worry-free swimming experiences as the gentle waves and shallow depths make the beach safe for all,
    including inexperienced swimmers. At low tides, the calm waters offer easy swimming opportunities.
  4. Unparalleled Dining with a View: Delight in exquisite meals at the restaurant while overlooking the captivating vista of the swimming beach just steps away. Enjoy the fusion of gourmet cuisine with the soothing ambiance of the sea.
  5. Enhanced Awareness for Safety: While there are no lifeguards in Mozambique, rest assured our staff is trained to prioritise guest safety, offering guidance and assistance to ensure a secure and enjoyable beach experience.
  6. Perfect Water Temperatures: Immerse yourself in the refreshing ocean waters, which maintain temperatures between a comfortable 24 and 28 degrees Celsius year-round. Whether you're swimming, snorkelling, or simply lounging by the shore, the inviting warmth of the sea adds to the blissful experience of your coastal retreat.

Immersive Wildlife and Safari Experiences:

  1. Rich Wildlife: Encounter elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, buffalos, and a variety of exquisite birds within the Maputo Special Reserve.
  2. Bush Walk: Learn about trees, enjoy the sunset, or visit the local market.
  3. Marine Adventures: Dive into the vibrant marine life of the Mozambican coast.
  4. Swim with Dolphins: Enjoy the unique experience of swimming alongside playful dolphins.
  5. Coral Reefs: Explore multi-colored coral reefs teeming with countless marine species.
  6. Whale and Whale Shark Encounters: Dive and meet majestic whales and whale sharks.

Commitment to Conservation:

  1. Natural Wonderland Preservation: Years of meticulous planning and passionate efforts to preserve this natural wonderland, ensuring its unspoiled beauty for all to enjoy.
  2. Sustainable Tourism: Emphasis on eco-friendly practices and sustainable tourism to protect the natural environment.

General Information:

  1. Arrival and Departure: Check-In: 2:00 PM. Check-Out: 11:00 AM.
  2. Entry: Keep booking receipts handy for swift gate entry. Check in at reception to
    collect keys. A 1000 MZN (<$16) key deposit may apply.
  3. Room Occupancy: Only assigned guests.
  4. Visitors: Not allowed in guest rooms after 9:00 PM.
  5. Alcohol: Personal alcohol not allowed outside of rooms.
  6. Noise: No excessive noise (no music after 9:00 PM).
  7. Pets: No pets are allowed in the Park.
  1. Rates and Dates: Are subject to availability of required dates, which are confirmed after submission of our Trip Enquiry form and may be subject to change.
  2. After acceptance of the Trip Enquiry form email reply and quotation, an invoice and payment link will be promptly emailed for your convenience.
  3. Bookings: Remain provisional for a limited period from the time of booking and are confirmed upon receipt of 50% payment.
  4. Refund Policy: 50% refund applicable if cancelled 60 days before arrival.
  5. Payments are non-refundable within 30 days of the scheduled arrival date.
  6. Date Changes: Changes made within 30 days of the arrival date will incur a 30% charge of accommodation.
  7. Booking Modifications: Modifications to the booking may incur price adjustments in accordance with calendar rates.
  8. Payment Information: Kindly utilise the emailed payment link options and instructions for all transactions.

Sustainable Development Impact

Commitment to Conservation

  1. Natural Wonderland Preservation: Years of meticulous planning and passionate efforts to preserve this natural wonderland, ensuring its unspoiled beauty for all to enjoy.
  2. Sustainable Tourism: Emphasis on eco-friendly practices and sustainable tourism to protect the natural environment.