kruger national park Safaris and Game Drives

My Unforgettable 6-Day Safari & Cultural Adventure with Africa Big 5 Safaris and Tours into the Kruger National Park Safari, Mozambique Beach Tour, Eswatini Cultural Experience, and Lesotho’s Sani Pass

When I first booked the 6-day Kruger, Mozambique, Eswatini, and Lesotho adventure with AfricaBig5Safaris and Tours, I knew it would be an exciting journey, but I had no idea just how breathtaking and life-changing this experience would be. From thrilling game drives to immersing myself in different cultures and standing atop the legendary Sani Pass, this tour had everything a traveler could dream of. Let me take you through this unforgettable journey, day by day.

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Day 1: The Thrill of Kruger National Park & Crossing into Mozambique

My adventure began with a warm welcome from our guide, a passionate and knowledgeable safari expert from Africa Big 5 Safaris and Tours. We departed from Johannesburg early in the morning and headed towards the Kruger National Park, South Africa’s premier wildlife destination.

The moment we entered the park, we were greeted by a herd of elephants crossing the road, a sight that immediately set the tone for the day. As we ventured deeper, we spotted lions resting under acacia trees, a leopard gracefully perched on a rock, and herds of zebras and antelopes moving across the savannah. Our guide’s keen eye and deep knowledge of animal behavior made the game drive incredibly insightful.

By late afternoon, we exited Kruger and crossed the border into Mozambique, arriving in Maputo. Checking in at StayEasy Maputo, I was already reflecting on how incredible the day had been. The mix of adventure, wildlife, and cross-border travel made this day unforgettable.


panorama route

Day 2: Beach Bliss in Bilene & Maputo City Tour

After a delightful breakfast, we took a scenic drive to Praia do Bilene, a stunning coastal town with crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand. Swimming in the warm, calm lagoon was the perfect way to refresh after the excitement of Kruger. The peaceful atmosphere of Bilene made it feel like a hidden paradise.

Returning to Maputo, we embarked on a city tour that showcased its rich history and unique architecture. We explored:
Maputo Central Market – A bustling spot full of fresh produce and handcrafted souvenirs.
Fortaleza de Maputo – A historical fortress from the colonial era.
Maputo Railway Station – An architectural gem designed by Gustave Eiffel.
FEIMA Arts & Craft Market – Perfect for picking up unique souvenirs.
Maputo Cathedral – A beautifully designed church with stunning interiors.

After an eye-opening day, we spent the night at StayEasy Maputo, eager for the next adventure.


cathedral
Maputo City

Day 3: Eswatini’s Wildlife & Cultural Experience

Crossing into Eswatini (Swaziland), we started the day with a thrilling game drive at Hlane Royal National Park. Here, we encountered white rhinos, giraffes, and a variety of bird species, all roaming freely in their natural habitat.

Next, we visited the Matenga Cultural Village, where we witnessed an electrifying traditional Swazi dance performance. The rhythmic drum beats and vibrant energy of the dancers made this a truly immersive experience. We also hiked to the breathtaking Matenga Waterfall, where the cascading waters created a serene escape.

The day ended with a visit to Mbabane, the capital of Eswatini, where we explored the famous Swazi Candles Factory and watched artisans create colorful handcrafted candles. Our overnight stay at Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary was surrounded by nature, adding a magical touch to the experience.

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rhino and lion park

Day 4: St Lucia Boat Cruise & Transfer to Pietermaritzburg

Back in South Africa, we made our way to St Lucia, a UNESCO-listed estuary known for its incredible wildlife. We hopped onto a boat cruise along the St Lucia Estuary, where we spotted massive hippos, lurking crocodiles, and vibrant birdlife up close. The beauty of this ecosystem was truly mesmerizing.

Later, we drove to Pietermaritzburg, where we checked into Road Lodge Pietermaritzburg, ready to take on the next leg of the adventure.


Day 5: Conquering Lesotho via Sani Pass & Lunch at Africa’s Highest Pub

One of the highlights of this trip was our journey up the legendary Sani Pass, the gateway to Lesotho. Traveling in a 4×4 vehicle, we ascended the rugged mountain roads, each turn offering breathtaking views.

Once at the top, we were welcomed by the Basotho people, who shared insights into their traditions and way of life. A visit to a local Basotho village gave us a firsthand look at their stone huts, handmade crafts, and warm hospitality.

For lunch, we dined at the Highest Pub in Southern Africa, sitting at an altitude of 2,874 meters. Sipping a cold drink while overlooking the dramatic mountain scenery was an experience like no other.

We then descended back to Underberg, where we checked into a local B&B for a cozy and restful night.


sani pass
Sani pass

Day 6: Waterfalls, Mandela Capture Site & Durban City Tour

On our final day, we visited Howick Falls, a majestic 95-meter-high waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Next, we made our way to the Nelson Mandela Capture Site, where an iconic steel sculpture stands as a powerful tribute to Mandela’s legacy.

Arriving in Durban, we explored:
Golden Mile – A stunning beachfront promenade.
Victoria Street Market – Bursting with spices, crafts, and souvenirs.
Durban Botanical Gardens – The oldest botanical garden in Africa.
uShaka Marine World (optional visit).

As the tour came to an end, we were dropped off at either Durban Airport or our hotel, feeling enriched by an incredible journey.


Final Thoughts: Why This Tour is a Must-Do!

This 6-day adventure with Africa Big 5 Safaris and Tours was truly the trip of a lifetime. Here’s why I highly recommend it:
Diverse Experiences – From safaris and beaches to mountain passes and cultural encounters, this tour covers it all.
Expert Guides – Our guide was passionate, knowledgeable, and made every experience richer.
Seamless Travel – Border crossings, accommodations, and activities were all well-organized.
Breathtaking Scenery – Every destination offered incredible landscapes and wildlife encounters.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable African adventure, this tour is 100% worth it. Whether you’re a nature lover, culture enthusiast, or thrill-seeker, this journey will leave you with memories to last a lifetime!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for the 6-Day Kruger, Mozambique, Eswatini & Lesotho Tour

  1. What is included in the tour package?

    The tour includes accommodation on a bed & breakfast basis, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, guided game drives, city tours, entrance fees to national parks and attractions, and assistance with border crossings. Exclusions include lunches, dinners, personal expenses, and optional activities.

  2. Do I need a visa for Mozambique, Eswatini, or Lesotho?

    Visa requirements depend on your nationality. South African passport holders do not require visas for these countries. However, travelers from other countries may need visas for Mozambique and Eswatini. It is recommended to check with your local embassy before traveling.

  3. What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    Accommodation is in comfortable 3-star lodges, hotels, and guesthouses, with each night spent in a different location to maximize the experience. All stays include breakfast, except for the first day

  4. Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

    Yes, this tour is designed for all fitness levels. Activities such as game drives, city tours, and cultural visits require minimal physical effort. The hike to Matenga Waterfall and the Sani Pass 4×4 drive involve some walking, but alternative arrangements can be made if necessary

  5. What wildlife can I expect to see on this tour?

    This tour offers incredible wildlife encounters, including the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino) in Kruger National Park and Hlane Royal National Park. You may also see hippos, crocodiles, giraffes, zebras, and a variety of bird species during the St Lucia boat cruise and other game drives.