DAY 1 – 4: KWAZULU NATAL SAFARI

From Durban, collect your group B rental car and drive to the world famous Phinda Game Reserve, for the start of your South African safari.

Phinda Game Reserve is situated in a lush region of KwaZulu Natal. Comprising an impressive 23 000 hectares of prime wilderness land, Phinda Game Reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including Africa’s Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino), endangered black rhino, and around 415 bird species.

On your KwaZulu Natal safari catch a glimpse of the shy suni antelope or the gracious nyala. Track the movements of the endangered rhino and observe the fascinating African elephant, as herds of these majestic gentle giants meander through the African bush.

Accommodation is at Phinda Forest Lodge or Phinda Mountain Lodge, including 2 game drives daily, an optional hour walk, all cold drinks, house wines, local spirits and beers.

DAY 4 – 8: THONGA BEACH EXPERIENCE

After your KwaZulu Natal safari, you will drive to Thonga Beach Lodge, your base for the duration of your beach holiday.

Set on the pristine shores of the Maputuland coast, its tranquil swimming bays, shimmering lakes, coastal forests and clear warm waters offers some of the best snorkelling and scuba diving in South Africa.

During the months of November to January, Thonga Beach Lodge offers tracking of the Leatherback and Loggerhead turtles on nocturnal beach walks (this is an incredible sight as turtles come ashore to lay their eggs).

4 Nights at Thonga Beach Lodge includes full accommodation, meals, teas/coffees, 2 x scuba dives (or Open Ocean Experiences), snorkelling, forest walks, kayaking and sundowners at Lake Sibaya.

After 8 days of rest and relaxation, you return to Durban for the end of your KwaZulu Natal Beach and Bush safari.