Beach & Bush Journey (Mozambique)

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

Stay at two luxury eco-resorts – Sky Island and Membene Resort – both nestled in the core of the Maputo Special Reserve's coastal forest biome, behind the sand dunes in the tropical bush, and a few steps away from the long fine white sand beach and the turquoise sea.

Both resorts are renowned for their sustainable tourism initiatives and lauded for their rehabilitation of endemic flora and fauna species conservation.

This journey package 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.

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Itineraries

Days 1-3

Ponta do Ouro – Sky Island Beach Resort

Your 7-night journey begins at Ponta do Ouro with check-in at Sky Island (from 14h00). Here, your 3-night stay includes full-board accommodation (dinner, bed, and breakfast). Breakfasts include a cold selection with fruits, yogurt, pastries, and more, along with a hot breakfast served with tea/coffee and a fresh fruit juice. Dinners are on a set menu basis with a choice of 3 starters, 3 mains, and 3 desserts, offering a delightful culinary journey. WiFi
access is complimentary.

Days 4-8

Ponta Membene Bush Resort

After breakfast at Sky Island on day 4, you'll check out (by 10h00) and transfer to Membene resort in Ponta Malongane for 4-nights. This resort is nestled in the bush of the Maputo Special Reserve's coastal forest, just behind sand dunes, and a few metres from a stunning white sand beach and the turquoise Indian Ocean.

Indulge in a culinary journey at Ponta Membene Lodge. Breakfasts feature a cold selection with fruits, yogurt, pastries, and more, complemented by a hot breakfast served with tea/coffee and fresh fruit juice. Dinner is 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.

• Accommodation
• All meals

This is a self-drive journey starting with a 3-night stay at Sky Island beach resort in Ponta do Ouro and ending with a 4-night stay at Membene bush resort in Ponta Malongane.

Driving:

You will need a 4WD vehicle to drive to, and within, Ponta do Ouro and Ponta Malongane. The main road leading into Ponta do Ouro is tarred but ends at a 4-way crossing leaving all other roads as thick sand, which are only accessible with 4WD or high clearance vehicles with differential lock.

Travelling from Johannesburg, the best route is to go along the N17 to Bethal and Ermelo, onto the N2 past Piet Retief, past Pongola, and turn left just after the Pongolapoort / Jozini Dam off the N2 highway. Drive though the mountain pass and over the Jozini Dam wall. Follow signs to Kosi Bay and Border Post. The 628km journey will take about 8 hr 22 min and there are three tolls (Leandra Toll Plaza at R46.50, Trichardt Toll Plaza at R23.50, and Ermelo Toll Plaza at R41.50).

Travelling from Maputo to the Kosi Bay border, you'll take the Ponta do Ouro turn-off. In Ponta do Ouro, turn left at the main intersection (Love Cafe will be on your right). A 4WD vehicle is required from this point onward. Remember to deflate tires to 1.0-1.5 bar. Drive straight for 6km. Look for SKY ISLAND RESORT signs on the right.

Flying:

Most international and regional airports have scheduled flights to Maputo (MPM). From there, you can hire a 4WD car, and then drive the 120 km distance to Ponta do Ouro.

Shuttle:

Alternatively, you can book a shuttle service from Maputo airport to Sky Island (please indicate this requirement when submitting your Trip Enquiry. All shuttle transfers depart from the airport at 2:00 PM, so plan your flight arrival accordingly. The approximate cost for 4 PAX is $280 each way). A helicopter service is also available (2 PAX with luggage at $1,234 each way). Inter-camp transfers (Sky Island to Membene) are $298 (4 PAX).

Ponta do Auro – Sky Island Beach Resort

Accommodation:

1. Solo and Couple guests stay in luxury Dune Sea View tents (no under 12's).
2. Family guests stay in the 2 bedroom Meadow Chalets.
3. Group guests stay in the 6-sleeper Super Delux Camp.

Facilities and Services:

1. Fully Equipped Onsite Restaurant: Enjoy delicious meals with a view, enhancing your stay with culinary delights.
2. Convenient Transfers: We can arrange airport transfers if needed, ensuring a hassle-free journey to and from the resort.
3. Proximity to Local Villages: Experience the local culture and community, offering a genuine taste of Mozambique.

Additional Activities and Adventures:

1. Paragliding Enthusiasts: Unique launch site located atop a 70m high coastal ridge, providing an exhilarating take-off point facing East. The prime flying season is from January to May, with March offering 8 out of 10 days of perfect flying conditions. Suitable for beginners and seasoned pilots, ensuring everyone can enjoy the skies. Tandem flights are available to experience paragliding with experienced pilots or take on the adventure solo if qualified. Paragliding is available at a cost of 4,150 MZN (<$65) per person (10-15 min). Check with the pilot 3-4 days before. Weight limit: 30kg to 120kg. Age: 8+.
2. Marine Reserve Exploration: Dive into the heart of our marine reserve, where you can discover vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and pristine underwater ecosystems.
3. Swim with Wild Dolphins: Experience the magic of swimming alongside wild dolphins in their natural habitat, creating unforgettable memories.
4. Turtle Nesting Ground Tours: Witness the wonder of nature as you observe
   leatherback and loggerhead turtles nesting along the shores, contributing to their
   conservation efforts.
5. World-Class Diving Expeditions: Explore the depths of our azure waters on world-class diving expeditions, discovering hidden treasures and colourful marine species.
6. Whale Watching Excursions: Embark on thrilling whale watching excursions along the migration route, where you can witness the majestic beauty of these gentle giants in their natural environment.
7. Snorkelling Adventures: Immerse yourself in the underwater wonders of our marine reserve with guided snorkelling adventures, perfect for all skill levels.
8. Bird Watching Tours: Discover the rich birdlife of our coastal paradise with guided bird watching tours, where you can spot a variety of endemic and migratory bird species.
9. Archery: Available at 200 MZN (&lt;$4) per person for 7 arrows.

Eco-Friendly Commitment:

1. Environmental Sustainability: Sky Island recycles almost all waste and maintains a small environmental footprint, ensuring an eco-friendly stay.
2. Engagement in Eco-Friendly Practices: This project is a work in progress, but their goal is to become the world's greenest hotel, which was designed and built from the foundations up with this premise in mind. From water and electricity to sewage systems, every aspect of construction is sustainable and takes the natural environment into consideration.

General Information:

1. Beach: Alcohol is not allowed. The beach path is about 100m and steep in places.
   Bring your own beach towels.
2. Pets: No pets are allowed.
3. Alcohol and Coolers: Not allowed in the Restaurant and common areas.
4. Music: Personal music is not allowed.
5. Room Amenities: All rooms have fans, no AC. No swimming pool.
6. Hours: Kitchen closes at 9:30 PM. Reception closes at 10:00 PM.

Ponta Membene Bush Resort

Accommodation:

1. Solo guests stay in a comfortable 1 bedroom chalet.
2. Couples stay in either 1 or 2 bedroom chalets.
3. Families and Groups stay in the 2 bedroom chalets (sleep 4-6 guests).
4. 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: Available at 450 MZN (&lt;$8) per person. 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. Enquire at
   reception for late checkout (latest 4:00 PM - a 2,000 MZN (&lt;$32) fee may apply for late check-outs.
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.

Border Information:

1. Visa Requirements: Visit evisa.gov.mz. Tourist visas are not required for residents of SADC countries provided that the person holds a valid, and in-date, passport issued by the SADC country.
2. Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
3. Advisory: Avoid driving at night. Seek nearby accommodation if arriving in the
   evening.
4. Distances: Kosi Bay to Ponta do Ouro: 10km. Kosi Bay to Ponta Malongane: 15km.

Visit Essentials:

1. Park Fees: Budget for park fees, which are excluded from this package deal. Details are available on the Maputo National Park website (local Mozambicans 400 MZN (<$7), SADC residents 600 MZN (<$10), and foreigners 900 MZN (<$15). Purchase your fishing licence at the Park gate upon arrival.

Park Gate Times:

1. Gates open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (October to March), and from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM (April to September).

What to Bring:

What should you pack?

• Day wear: beach wear, shorts and t-shirts
• Evening wear: smart casual
• Swim suit
• Sun hat
• Sunglasses
• Sandals
• Sunscreen
• Comfortable walking shoes

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.

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. Bookings: Remain provisional for 24 hours from the time of booking and are
   confirmed upon receipt of 50% payment.
3. After acceptance of the Trip Enquiry form email reply, an invoice and payment link will be promptly emailed for your convenience.
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.