Beach & Bush Deluxe

ABOUT THIS TRIP

Subtropical Kwazulu-Natal offers a unique beach and bush experience off the beaten track. Unique stretches of coastline on the Indian Ocean, which is pleasantly warm all year round, alternate with endless and evergreen bush landscape inland. Experience the Big Five and all other African wildlife as well as the special features of the marine flora and fauna. You will spend the night in exclusive boutique hotels and lodges in the five-star category, which have been personally selected and tested by us for this tour. The emphasis here is on first-class service and very special care.

We are happy to change this tour itinerary or the rental car category according to your individual wishes. Please contact us for your personal offer. We recommend starting this trip in the South African winter from April to October. A four-wheel drive vehicle is not necessary for this route, but an SUV is definitely helpful.

OVERNIGHT STATIONS

• 2x Ulundi
• 2x Hluhluwe
• 2x Hluhluwe
• 3x Kosi Bay
• 2x Ballito

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• 11x overnight stay in the Deluxe category *****
• 11x breakfast, 9x lunch, 9x dinner
• Rental car class N (Toyota Fortuner 2×4 SUV Automatic or similar)
• four game drives in the Babanango Game Reserve
• four game drives in Thanda Game Reserve
• four game drives in the Phinda Game Reserve
• four guided activities in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park
• Access to the airport lounge on the day of departure
• Comprehensive travel documents according to the booked tour itinerary
• Local offices with 24-hour hotline (German/English)
• Travel insurance certificate

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• Meals not mentioned
• not mentioned or optional activities
• Flight performance
• Entrance fees and conservation fees not mentioned
• other personal expenses, tips
• personal travel insurance
• Additional costs for rental car (conditions see below)

DAY 1 TO DAY 3 (APPROX. 220 KM):

ULUNDI

Upon arrival at Durban Airport or at the agreed-upon location, you will receive your rental car. Your destination is the approximately 20,000-hectare private Babanango Game Reserve near Ulundi in the Highveld of northern KwaZulu-Natal. The mountainous reserve, with peaks up to 1,400 meters, is malaria-free and home to the Big Five and many other African wildlife species. Over 450 cultural and historical sites dating back to the South African indigenous peoples have been identified to date. In addition to traditional wildlife viewing, visitors also learn a great deal about the region's history, nature, and geology. Babanango is a community project in which the surrounding local communities are involved.

The exclusive Madwaleni River Lodge is located in a secluded valley within the reserve, directly on the White Imfolozi River. The twelve opulent, freestanding tented suites feature a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a minibar, tea/coffee making facilities, a lounge area, and an outdoor deck with seating, a private plunge pool, and stunning views. The Family Tent consists of two connected tented suites. The Romance Tent is set back from the other tents and also offers an outdoor shower and outdoor bathtub. The lodge offers a viewing deck, a bar, a restaurant, a gym, a library, an infinity pool, a boma (traditional dining area around a campfire), and free Wi-Fi.

For each overnight stay you take part in two guided game drives in an open off-road vehicle (English-speaking, participation with other people), which take place in the afternoon before dinner and in the morning before breakfast.

BABANANGO GAME RESERVE MADWALENI RIVER LODGE (LUXURY TENT)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND DRINKS AND 4 ACTIVITIES

DAY 3 TO DAY 5 (APPROX. 180 KM):

HLUHLUWE

Your destination is the almost 14,000-hectare Thanda Private Game Reserve near Hluhluwe. The reserve is home to the Big Five as well as many other African wild animals, including over 400 different bird species. Here in subtropical Zululand, you will experience a breathtaking evergreen natural landscape, even in the South African winter. There are only two accommodations in the entire reserve, the tented camp and the safari lodge, which guarantees an intimate and exclusive safari experience.

You will stay at the luxurious Thanda Safari Lodge in detached chalets measuring over 200 square meters. The chalets offer an enormous amount of space and privacy, while the lodge impresses with its warm Zulu mentality. Each of the nine chalets has en-suite bathroom/WC, air-conditioning, lounge area with fireplace, mini-bar, tea/coffee making facilities, safe, sundeck with plunge pool and outdoor shower. The lodge offers a pool, an outdoor deck overlooking a waterhole, a restaurant, a bar, a lounge, a boma (traditional campfire dining area), a spa area for a fee and free Wi-Fi.

Per night, you will take part in two guided game drives in an open off-road vehicle (in English, shared with other guests), which take place in the afternoon before dinner and in the morning before breakfast. Conservation fees are not included in the price and must be paid on site.

THANDA SAFARI LODGE (LUXURY CHALET)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND DRINKS AND 4 ACTIVITIES

DAY 5 TO DAY 7 (APPROX. 50 KM):

HLUHLUWE

Your destination is the Munywana Safari Conservancy near Hluhluwe in northern KwaZulu-Natal, which covers around 30,000 hectares. The game reserve, which borders the iSimangaliso Weiland Park, emerged from the three private reserves of Phinda, Zuka and Bumbeni, with Phinda still holding the largest share. It is home to the Big Five as well as many other African wild animals. In contrast to the state-run Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, only overnight guests have access to the private reserve. This is therefore much better suited to a short stay for unique game viewing. The small lodges also offer a very personal atmosphere. Specially trained rangers ensure a first-class nature experience.

The luxurious Phinda Mountain Lodge is situated on top of a mountain ridge with fantastic views of the valley below. The 23 cottages and suites have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a minibar, a tea/coffee maker, a safe and a veranda with seating, an outdoor shower and a private plunge pool. The cottages are about 65sqm in size, the suites about 115sqm. The family units are more spacious and have two bedrooms, each with its own bathroom/WC. The lodge offers a pool, a restaurant, a bar, a lounge, a boma (traditional campfire dining area), a fitness room, a spa area for a fee and free WiFi.

You take part in two guided game drives in an open off-road vehicle per overnight stay (English-speaking, participation with other people), which take place in the afternoon before dinner and in the morning before breakfast. It is also possible to take part in guided game walks (subject to availability).

PHINDA MOUNTAIN LODGE (SUITE)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND DRINKS AND 4 ACTIVITIES

DAY 5 TO DAY 7 (APPROX. 50 KM):

HLUHLUWE

OPTIONAL UPGRADE STARTING AT €635 PER PERSON

Your destination is the Munywana Safari Conservancy near Hluhluwe in northern KwaZulu-Natal, which covers around 30,000 hectares. The game reserve, which borders the iSimangaliso Weiland Park, emerged from the three private reserves of Phinda, Zuka and Bumbeni, with Phinda still holding the largest share. It is home to the Big Five as well as many other African wild animals. In contrast to the state-run Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, only overnight guests have access to the private reserve. This is therefore much better suited to a short stay for unique game viewing. The small lodges also offer a very personal atmosphere. Specially trained rangers ensure a first-class nature experience.

The luxurious and intimate Phinda Rock Lodge is situated on a hill with a dramatic view of the Lebombo Mountains valley. The six detached opulent suites have a bath/WC, air-conditioning, minibar, tea/coffee maker, safe and a veranda with seating, outdoor shower and plunge pool. The lodge offers a restaurant, a bar, a lounge, a viewing deck, a fitness room, spa treatments for a fee and free Wi-Fi.

You take part in two guided game drives in an open off-road vehicle per overnight stay (English-speaking, participation with other people), which take place in the afternoon before dinner and in the morning before breakfast. It is also possible to take part in guided game walks (subject to availability).

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

PHINDA ROCK LODGE (SUITE)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND DRINKS AND 4 ACTIVITIES

DAY 7: KOSI BAY

4X4 SCHEDULED RETURN TRANSFER

The 4×4 transfer to Thonga Beach Lodge departs twice daily at 12 noon and 3 pm from Librodi Lodge in Sodwana Bay. Please arrive at the Librodi Lodge parking lot in good time at the time stated in your travel documents. You can park your vehicle safely there, there is also a toilet and a bistro. The return transfer on the day of departure departs from the lodge at 10:30 am.

Both transfers are carried out by English-speaking drivers, additional people can take part (no private transfer). Guests with their own 4×4 vehicle can also drive directly to the lodge.

DAY 7 TO DAY 10 (APPROX. 110 KM):

KOSI BAY

Kosi Bay is situated in the far north of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is a magical place of lakes, rivers, pristine beaches, bushveld and coastal forests. This 11,000ha and little-visited nature reserve on the border with Mozambique is a subtropical paradise that is home to over 250 bird species. A four-wheel drive vehicle or transfer is required to visit Kosi Bay.

Thonga Beach Lodge is not a typical beach resort, such as those found in Mozambique or Mauritius. Lovers of solitude and endless nature will get their money's worth here. The lodge is nestled between the endless white sandy beach and the untouched forests in the hinterland. A short boardwalk leads directly to the Indian Ocean, which is warm all year round. The elegantly rustic lodge has twelve rooms with bath/WC, air conditioning, minibar, safe, tea/coffee maker, safe and veranda. The Forest Rooms overlook the pristine forest. The Ocean View Rooms have a sea view. The Deluxe Ocean View Rooms also have a plunge pool on the veranda. The family units have two separate bedrooms, each with its own bathroom/WC. The lodge offers a restaurant, a bar, a lounge, a spa (for a fee), a pool, a terrace, a sun deck on the beach and free Wi-Fi in the communal area.

The accommodation price includes selected activities such as guided snorkeling tours, hikes, sunset cruises, cultural visits, and seasonal turtle excursions from November to February. The activities are conducted in English and take place with other participants. Conservation fees are payable on site.

THONGA BEACH LODGE (DELUXE OCEAN VIEW ROOM)

3X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND 6 ACTIVITIES

DAY 10 TO DAY 12 (APPROX. 330 KM):

BALLITO

The cozy vacation resort of Ballito is located around 40 km north of Durban on the warm Indian Ocean with its endless golden beaches. The so-called Dolphin Coast offers year-round bathing pleasure. It is a wonderful place to relax and unwind. Nevertheless, the city of Durban with Shaka Marine World and the Moses Madhiba World Cup Stadium can be reached in just under 45 minutes by car. The Gateway Shopping Center in Umhlanga, South Africa's largest mall, can be reached in around 30 minutes by car.

The luxurious Sala Beach House is located directly on the beach in the small district of Shakas Rock and offers a breathtaking view of the sea. The seven modern and individually furnished rooms and suites have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a minibar, a tea/coffee maker, a TV, a safe and a balcony or terrace with seating. The Pool View Rooms are located on the first floor with direct pool access and overlook the sea. The Ocean View Rooms are located on the first floor and overlook the sea. The Courtyard Suite overlooks the inner courtyard and garden. The two spacious Ocean Suites and Sala Suites offer uninterrupted sea views. The boutique guest house offers a restaurant, a wellness area (for a fee), a subtropical garden with pool, a fire pit, direct beach access and free Wi-Fi.

SALA BEACH HOUSE (OCEAN VIEW ROOM)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 10 TO DAY 12 (APPROX. 330 KM):

BALLITO

OPTIONALLY UPGRADEABLE FROM 820 € PER PERSON

The cozy vacation resort of Ballito is located around 40 km north of Durban on the warm Indian Ocean with its endless golden beaches. The so-called Dolphin Coast offers year-round bathing pleasure. It is a wonderful place to relax and unwind. Nevertheless, the city of Durban with Shaka Marine World and the Moses Madhiba World Cup Stadium can be reached in just under 45 minutes by car. The Gateway Shopping Center in Umhlanga, South Africa's largest mall, can be reached in around 30 minutes by car.

The luxurious Sala Beach House is located directly on the beach in the small district of Shakas Rock and offers a breathtaking view of the sea. The seven modern and individually furnished rooms and suites have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a minibar, a tea/coffee maker, a TV, a safe and a balcony or terrace with seating. The Pool View Rooms are located on the first floor with direct pool access and overlook the sea. The Ocean View Rooms are located on the first floor and overlook the sea. The Courtyard Suite overlooks the inner courtyard and garden. The two spacious Ocean Suites and Sala Suites offer uninterrupted sea views. The boutique guest house offers a restaurant, a wellness area (for a fee), a subtropical garden with pool, a fire pit, direct beach access and free Wi-Fi.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

SALA BEACH HOUSE (SALA SUITE)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 12 (APPROX. 30 KM): DURBAN

INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT LOUNGE

As an SA Travel customer, you are something very special and enjoy the comfort that otherwise only Business or First Class travelers can enjoy. Take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle at the airport on the day of departure and keep your vacation relaxation going for as long as possible.

You will have access to the airport lounge at your international departure airport in Johannesburg, Cape Town or Durban. The lounge offers free drinks, snacks, newspapers, TV, WiFi and washing and shower facilities (facilities may vary depending on the lounge). You can use the lounge at the earliest four hours before your departure. Please note that lounge capacity is limited, especially at smaller airports, and access cannot always be guaranteed or there may be waiting times at the entrance.

Please return your rental car to Durban Airport or the agreed location at least two hours before departure.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THIS TRIP

All prices quoted are subject to availability before booking and are based on the number of participants stated. Errors excepted. Alternative availability, seasonal overlaps or exchange rate fluctuations may lead to price changes. Please request your personal tour offer with your desired travel dates. This tour offer does not include flights.

The child rate applies to one child under the age of 12 staying in their parents' room. One child under the age of two stays free of charge. For children aged 12 and over, the adult rate generally applies. Not all accommodation allows children of all ages.

We recommend that you take out travel cancellation insurance and travel health insurance to cover the costs of assistance, including repatriation in the event of accident, illness or death. We can provide a corresponding offer on request.

A passport is required to enter the country. Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a visa in advance. Minors under the age of 18 may need to carry additional documents. We will inform you of the exact requirements before you book. Travelers who have stayed in an area at risk of yellow fever must provide proof of a yellow fever vaccination.

The regions around the Kruger Park, the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and eastern Eswatini are malaria endangered areas.

This trip is not suitable for people with reduced mobility. Please ask for suitable offers.

The organizer of this trip is South Africa Travel GmbH & Co. KG, Buddestraße 9, 33602 Bielefeld, Germany, Tel +49 521 33676880.

Left-hand traffic prevails on the roads of southern Africa.

EUROPCAR/TEMPEST RENTAL CAR TERMS AND CONDITIONS

The following services are included in the price: unlimited free mileage, accident/theft insurance without excess (incl. damage to tires, roof, glass, underbody, oil pan, clutch), liability insurance up to 10 million euros, towing costs in the event of an accident, an additional driver, contract fee, local taxes and fees.

The following services are not included in the price and must be paid for locally: Gasoline, toll, deposit.

The following services are not included in the price and must be paid for locally if required: additional equipment e.g. navigation device, additional driver, young driver surcharge, traffic fines.

You will need a valid credit card issued to the main driver, an international driver's license and a passport to rent the vehicle. Each driver must be at least 21 years old and have held a driver's license for one year. The deposit is paid by credit card and will not be charged if the vehicle is returned with a full tank of fuel.

The local car rental company reserves the right to provide models of equal or higher value. The rental car mentioned is only an example of the confirmed vehicle class. The costs to be paid locally in ZAR are determined by the local car rental company and are subject to change without notice.

This is an excerpt from the car rental conditions of the local car rental company, which you will receive when booking, or in advance if you wish. You will conclude a contract in English for the use of the rental car on site.

APPROXIMATE ADDITIONAL COSTS THAT ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

Long-haul flights to Southern Africa in Economy Class cost from EUR 900, while prices can be well over EUR 1000 in the high season. Flights in Premium Economy Class are available from 1500 EUR, in Business Class flights cost from 2500 EUR (per person for outward and return flights). All prices are average values depending on the airline and season. The actual prices at a given time depend on the number of bookings and may vary. Early booking is recommended, especially in the high season.

A light lunch costs about 5 EUR (small salad, soup) to 8 EUR (pizza, pasta, burger) per person; dinner costs about 10 EUR (pizza, pasta, burger, large salad) to over 12 EUR (steak, fish) up to 22 EUR (three-course meal) per person. Coffee, tea, beer, or soft drinks cost about 1.70 EUR per cup or glass. Prices may vary up or down depending on the region or type of restaurant.

One liter of fuel (gasoline or diesel) costs about 1 EUR. Plan on spending about 132 EUR on fuel for this trip. Some roads have tolls. Plan on spending about 24 EUR on tolls for this trip.

Entrance fees to national parks cost between EUR 5 and EUR 25 per person per day, depending on the size and popularity of the park. Entrance fees to museums or other attractions cost between EUR 3 and EUR 20 per person. Children under the age of 12 usually pay half price.