Bush & Beach Self-Drive Adventure

Rhino Walking Safaris | Kruger National Park | Mozambique | St Lucia KwaZulu-Natal

Details

Priced From

Back Road & Sand Track Driving

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Enjoy the lesser traveled back roads of the Kruger National Park and adventure into the Maputo Special Reserve, only accessible by 4×4

Accommodation Mix

  • Walking Trails Camp 20% 20%
  • Luxury Safari Lodge 10% 10%
  • Self-Catering Kruger 20% 20%
  • Rustic Beach Chalet 30% 30%
  • Bed & Breakfast Stay 20% 20%

We use a range of accommodation types to make your trip more unique. All our itineraries are tailormade based on your travel prefernces. 

Jimny Hire

11 Days Jimny Hire – Partially Equipped

Pick-up Kruger Airport & Drop off Durban Airpirt

Kruger Private Concession

1 night Rhino Post Safari Lodge

All meals & game Drives

Kruger Walking Safari

2 nights walking safari at with Rhino Walking Safaris

All inclusive meals and activities

Kruger National Park

2 nights Self-Drive Kruger Safari – 2 Rest Camps

Self-Catering

Mozambique Maputo Reserve

3 nights at Ponta Membene Lodge

Bed & Breakfast

St Lucia KwaZulu-Natal

2 nights at St Lucia Hilltop Guest House

Bed & Breakfast

Trip Highlights

Guided Safari

Enjoy a fully guided safari in a private concesison in the Kruger National Park

Walking Safari

Go back to basics on a guided walking safari with Rhino Walking Safaris in the Kruger

Self-Drive Safari

Explore Kruger at your own pace on a self-drive safari in search of unique wildlife encounters

Coastal scenery in the Maputo Reserve in Mozambique

Coastal Paradise

Enjoy endless beaches and pristine coastal scenery Mozamiques Maputo National Park

River Cruise

Take a boating safari on the St Lucia Estury in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park

Elephant sighting in the Kruger National Park on a self-drive vacation with Tread Lite
Ponta Mbembene in the Maputo National Park in Mozambique
Self-drive Kruger safari with a Tread Lite Suzuki Jimny
Boating safari on the St Lucia Estuary on a self-drive vacation with Tread Lite

Itinerary Description

Embark on a memorable 10-night safari adventure through South Africa’s Kruger National Park, Mozambique, and St Lucia in northern KwaZulu-Natal. Your adventure begins at the Kruger Mpumalanga Airport, where our team will deliver your pre-packed Suzuki Jimny rental before you head off into the Kruger National Park.

Luxury Kruger Safari

Start with a night at the luxurious Rhino Post Safari Lodge, set in a private concession inside the Kruger National Park. Your stay here offers guided safari drives and a chance to spot the Big Five.

Kruger Walking Safari & Self-Drive

Next, enjoy two nights at Rhino Walking Safaris Plains Camp, where you’ll explore the bushveld on foot with expert guides while getting closer to nature in a rustic camp environment. Returning to your Jimny rental, it’s time to explore the Kruger National Park at your own pace on a two-night self-drive adventure, staying at the famous Lower Sabie Rest Camp and Crocodile Bridge. The southern region of the Kruger National Park is renowned for exceptional game viewing, giving you more opportunities to find epic wildlife sightings.

 Pristine Mozambique Beaches

Leaving the Kruger National Park, head off on your next adventure to Mozambique. Enter Mozambique and travel south to the entrance of the Maputo Special Reserve. Inside the park, it’s a sand road 4×4 adventure through the park to Ponta Membene, where you’ll spend the next three nights enjoying the pristine Mozambique coastline. Here, you can swim with dolphins, enjoy exquisite snorkelling, or simply relax in barefoot luxury. The Maputo Special Reserve offers excellent opportunities for more wildlife viewing, including elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and more.

 St Lucia – iSimangaliso Wetland Park

Relaxed after your time on the coast, return to South Africa for two nights in popular St Lucia in KwaZulu-Natal. Discover the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy a boating safari on the St Lucia Estuary, spotting hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife, or take a trip to Cape Vidal for more beach time.

On the last day of your adventure, take an easy drive to King Shaka Airport in Durban, where our team will meet you to receive the vehicle. This 10-night itinerary offers a blend of thrilling safaris, serene beaches, and rich biodiversity, showcasing the best of South Africa and Mozambique’s natural wonders.

Interactive Map

Detailed Itinerary

Kruger Airport to Rhino Post Safari Lodge

Arriving at the Kruger Mpumalanga Airport you will be met by our team who will hand over your pre-equipped Suzuki Jimny rental and assist you with your onward route to Rhino Post Safari Lodge. Spend 1 night at Rhino Post Safari Lodge as the perfect start to your Kruger safari. 

Rhino Post Safari Lodge in the Kruger National Park

YOUR STAY: Rhino Post Safari Lodge

Nights: 1

Room: Luxury Room

Meals Included: Dinner, Bed & Breakfast

Activities Included: Twice daily safari

ABOUT RHINO POST SAFARI LODGE

Rhino Post Safari Lodge offers a luxurious start to your Kruger National Park adventure. Set in a private concession, the elegant lodge features spacious suites with en-suite bathrooms, private decks, and stunning bushveld views.

Guests enjoy exceptional guided safaris, with twice-daily game drives led by skilled guides in open safari vehicles. These drives offer unparalleled opportunities to spot the Big Five and other iconic wildlife, with expert insights into the park’s ecosystems. After thrilling safaris, guests relax with gourmet meals, a pool, and campfire stories, making Rhino Post Safari Lodge an unforgettable luxury experience. 

Rhino Post Safari Lodge to Rhino Walking Safaris

Having enjoyed your first night in luxury at Rhino Post, it’s time to go back to basics with a two-night guided walking safari with Rhino Walking Safaris. A walking safari is a truly unique experience, allowing you to reconnect with nature and enjoy exceptional wildlife encounters on foot. Plains Camp offers a barefoot, minimalist camping experience in the Kruger National Park.

Room interior at Plains Camp with Rhino Walking Safaris

YOUR STAY: Pafuri Walking Safaris

Nights: 2

Room: En-Suite Tent

Meals Included: Dinner, Bed & Breakfast

Activities Included: All scheduled safari activities

ABOUT RHINO WALKING SAFARIS

Rhino Walking Safaris’ Plains Camp offers a unique and adventurous walking safari experience in the heart of South Africa’s Kruger National Park. This rustic yet comfortable camp features only a handful of tents, ensuring an exclusive and intimate atmosphere. Each tent is equipped with comfortable beds and en-suite facilities, blending comfort with wilderness charm.

The highlight of Plains Camp is its focus on walking safaris. Led by experienced and knowledgeable guides, guests embark on daily walking excursions through the Kruger wilderness. These walks offer a profoundly different perspective compared to traditional game drives, allowing you to experience the landscape’s sights, sounds, and scents up close. Evenings at Plains Camp are spent around the campfire, sharing stories under the starlit African sky, making this adventure both memorable and enriching.

WALKING SAFARI TO KRUGER NATIONAL PARK SELF DRIVE

With your walking safari complete, it is time to get back into your Jimny for a two-night self-drive adventure through Kruger National Park as you make your way south. With overnight stays at Lower Sabie Rest Camp and Crocodile Bridge, the next two days offer an excellent opportunity to enjoy more exceptional game viewing at your own pace.

Lower Sabie Rest Camp in the Kruger National Park

YOUR STAY: Lower Sabie & Crocodile Bridge

Nights: 2 

Room: Chalets

Meals Included: Self-Catering

Activities Included: Explore on your own

LOWER SABIE AND CROCODILE BRIDGE: PRIME GAME VIEWING

Lower Sabie and Crocodile Bridge Rest Camps, located in the southern region of Kruger National Park, offer exceptional game viewing opportunities. This area is renowned for its abundant wildlife, including the Big Five. Lower Sabie, set along the Sabie River, provides stunning views and a variety of accommodation options, while Crocodile Bridge, near the park’s entrance, offers a more intimate setting. Both camps are ideal for self-drive safaris, allowing guests to explore the rich ecosystems and diverse wildlife at their own pace, ensuring unforgettable sightings and thrilling safari experiences.

Unique wildlife to spot in southern Kruger
  • Lion: The southern region is home to several lion prides. These majestic predators can often be spotted lounging in the sun or on the prowl for prey.

  • Elephant: Large herds of elephants are frequently seen near water sources. Their social interactions and sheer size make them a highlight of any safari.

  • Leopard: Although elusive, leopards are more commonly sighted in the south. Look for them resting in trees or stalking through the bush.

  • White Rhino: This area is one of the best places to see white rhinos. These impressive animals are often seen grazing in open grasslands or near waterholes.

Southern Kruger: A Wildlife Haven

The southern region of Kruger National Park is renowned for its diverse topography, ranging from rolling hills and riverine forests to expansive savannahs. This variety of landscapes supports a rich array of wildlife, making it a prime area for game viewing. The Sabie and Crocodile rivers attract large herds of elephants, buffalo, and diverse antelope species, while predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs are frequently spotted. This area also boasts a fascinating history, with archaeological sites and San rock art reflecting the deep cultural heritage of the region. The southern Kruger offers an unforgettable safari experience.

Kruger National Park to Ponta Membene, Mozambique

It is time to leave the bushveld of Kruger National Park behind and head for the pristine coastline of southern Mozambique. Your drive will take you out of Kruger and into Mozambique through Komatipoort. The first portion is an easy drive to the gate of the Maputo Special Reserve. From here, let the Jimny shine as you leave the tar road behind and venture deeper into the wildlife reserve, navigating sandy tracks to Ponta Membene. Be sure to look out for wildlife, as the reserve is well-stocked with diverse species.

Ponta Membene offers a picturesque coastal experience in a remote setting along Mozambique’s southern coastline. It is the idyllic location for the next three nights of your vacation.

Forest Chalet at Ponta Membene on Jimny Self-Drive vacation to Mozambique

YOUR STAY: Ponta Membene

Nights: 3

Room: En-Suite Forest Chalet

Meals Included: Bed & Breakfast

Activities Included: Explore on your own

PONTE MEMBENE: COASTAL PARADISE

Ponta Membene, nestled in Mozambique’s southern coastline, offers a pristine and remote coastal experience. Accessible only by 4×4, this secluded paradise is part of the Maputo Special Reserve, teeming with diverse wildlife. The area boasts unspoiled beaches, crystal-clear waters, and opportunities for activities like swimming with dolphins and snorkeling. Visitors can relax in barefoot luxury while exploring the natural beauty of the reserve. Ponta Membene is the perfect destination for a serene and unforgettable coastal getaway.

Things to do in Maputo Special Reserve
  • Snorkeling and Swimming with Dolphins: Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean to explore vibrant coral reefs and swim alongside playful dolphins. The rich marine life makes snorkeling an unforgettable experience.

  • Beach Relaxation: Enjoy the pristine, unspoiled beaches of Ponta Membene. Lounge on the soft sands, take leisurely walks along the shore, and bask in the serene coastal atmosphere.

  • Wildlife Viewing: Venture into the interior of the Maputo Special Reserve to spot diverse wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, and giraffes. The reserve’s sandy tracks offer excellent opportunities for game viewing.

  • Scenic Coastal Drives: Use your Jimny 4×4 to explore the stunning coastal landscapes and hidden coves around Ponta Membene. The scenic drives provide breathtaking views and chances to discover secluded spots.

Maputo Special Reserve: A Conservation Gem

The Maputo Special Reserve, established in 1932, is a vital conservation area in southern Mozambique. Initially created to protect elephant populations, the reserve has evolved into a crucial wildlife corridor, connecting the Maputo River and the Indian Ocean. This protected area is home to diverse ecosystems, including coastal dunes, wetlands, and forests, supporting species like elephants, buffalo, and a variety of antelope. The reserve plays a significant role in regional conservation efforts, promoting biodiversity and offering visitors a unique blend of pristine beaches and rich wildlife experiences.

Ponta Membene to St Lucia

After three nights relaxing at the coast, your adventure takes you back into South Africa. Crossing through the Kosi Bay border into KwaZulu-Natal, you head to your final stop in the coastal town of St Lucia.

Enjoy your last three days exploring the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, with a final opportunity for game viewing and time on the beach at the renowned Cape Vidal. A boat cruise on the St Lucia Estuary is a must for a chance to see hippos and other wildlife that inhabit the waters, making for a memorable end to your journey.

St Lucia Hilltop Guest House on South Africa and Mozambique self-drive

YOUR STAY: St Lucia Hilltop Guest House

Nights: 2

Room: En-Suite Room

Meals Included: Bed & Breakfast

Activities Included: Explore on your own

ABOUT ST LUCIA HILLTOP GUEST HOUSE

St Lucia Hilltop Guest House offers a serene retreat in the heart of St Lucia, KwaZulu-Natal. Nestled on a hill, this charming guest house provides stunning views of the surrounding wetlands and coastal forests. Guests can enjoy comfortable, elegantly decorated rooms with modern amenities and private balconies. The lush garden, inviting pool, and warm hospitality create a relaxing atmosphere. Its prime location makes it easy to explore the nearby iSimangaliso Wetland Park and pristine beaches, ensuring an unforgettable stay.

Things to do in St Lucia & iSimangaliso
  • iSimangaliso Wetland Park: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its diverse ecosystems. Enjoy guided safari tours, boat cruises on Lake St. Lucia, and bird-watching.

  • Estuary Cruise: Take a serene cruise along the St. Lucia Estuary. This popular activity offers opportunities to spot hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species while enjoying the tranquil beauty of the wetlands.

  • St. Lucia Beach: Relax on the beautiful beaches of St. Lucia, such as the main beach or the nearby Cape Vidal. These beaches are great for sunbathing, swimming, and spotting dolphins and whales (in season).

  • Hiking and Nature Trails: Enjoy walking and hiking trails like Alfred’s Trail, which offers stunning views and opportunities to see local wildlife.

More About the iSimangaliso Wetland Park

iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity and natural beauty. Established in 1999, it is South Africa’s first World Heritage Site, celebrated for its diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, savannahs, and coral reefs. The park’s history is marked by its role in conservation and its rich cultural heritage, including historical sites and indigenous communities.

As a tourist destination, iSimangaliso offers a range of activities such as guided safari tours, boat cruises on Lake St. Lucia, and bird-watching. Visitors can explore its unique landscapes, from lush wetlands to pristine beaches, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

St Lucia to King Shaka International Airport

It is the final day of your vacation as you take an easy drive from St Lucia to the King Shaka International Airport near Durban. The Tread Lite team will meet you to receive the vehicle before you head off on your onward travels. 

We recommend an extension to Cape Town or up to Victoria Falls as the perfect end to your vacation. 

Start Your Journey

Like what you see in this itinerary and ready to start planning your adventure! To get started, fill out our simple contact form and our team will be in touch with you to begin the planning process.

If you prefer a quick WhatsApp message you are welcome to message us there by using the WhatsApp icon below.

We are looking forward to welcoming you to South Africa. 

Regards, 

Stuart and the Tread Lite team

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