Mozambique 12-Day Tour
Join us on an extraordinary journey across Mozambique, exploring 3 renowned national parks that showcase the country's recovering wilderness, pristine marine reserves, and remarkable biodiversity.
Our strategically selected route and key destinations provide you with the best chance of encountering specific mammal and marine targets in the time available, as well as the prospect of experiencing many other diverse wildlife and bird species, including iconic African megafauna.
The route caters to a potential mammal list exceeding 60 species—ranging from rare duikers and nocturnal predators to Dugongs and marine giants—with a high success rate for elusive species. The region's bird list is equally impressive, with hundreds of species recorded across coastal, montane, and savanna biomes, where we aim to spot well over 300 species.
Safari Highlights include:
Explore the restored ecological wonderland of Maputo National Park and the Ponta Do Ouro Marine Protected Area – 3 nights.
Fly into the coastal city of Beira for an overnight stay enroute to Gorongosa – 1 night.
Discover the extraordinary and abundant biodiversity of Gorongosa National Park, where we explore one of the world’s great wildernesses – 4 nights.
Savour the idyllic Indian Ocean island lifestyle and azure marine waters of the gorgeous Bazaruto Archipelago National Park – 3 nights.
Habitats Explored
Habitats we explore include coastal forest, seashore, lagoons, woodlands, savanna, grassland, thornveld, subtropical forest, and sandy islands, which host numerous regional endemics, threatened and endangered mammal and bird species, as well as great floral diversity.
Tour Overview
At a glance
Wednesday, November 4, 2026
Thursday, November 5, 2026
Friday, November 6, 2026
Saturday, November 7, 2026
Sunday, November 8, 2026
Monday, November 9, 2026
Tuesday, November 10, 2026
Day 7: Day Excursion to Mount Gorongosa
Wednesday, November 11, 2026
Thursday, November 12, 2026
Friday, November 13, 2026
Saturday, November 14, 2026
Sunday, November 15, 2026
Day 12: Bazaruto Island to Vilanculos & Flight to Johannesburg
Map
A. Maputo
Maputo, MozambiqueB. Maputo National Park
EN1 Km 84, MozambiqueC. Beira
Beira, MozambiqueD. Gorongosa National Park
5FMW+F9J, Goinha, MozambiqueE. Bazaruto Archipelago National Marine Park
9F28+7VM, Asneira, MozambiqueF. Vilankulos
Vilankulos, MozambiqueWednesday, November 4, 2026
Day 1: Johannesburg to Maputo & Ponta Milibangalala
Overland Arrival & Coastal Forest Entry
After departing Johannesburg and crossing into Mozambique via Maputo, we head straight into the southern coastal wilderness of Maputo National Park. Traversing coastal grasslands and dune thickets, we arrive at Montebelo Milibangalala Bay Resort along the Indian Ocean shoreline in time for an evening game and bird drive.
Meals: Dinner
Distance traveled: Approximately 125 km.
Maputo National Park
Maputo National Park is one of Africa’s premier "bush and beach" conservation sanctuaries, covering nearly 1,800 square kilometers across the southern tip of Mozambique. Established in December 2021 by combining the terrestrial Maputo Special Reserve with the Ponta do Ouro Partial Marine Reserve, the park represents one of the continent's most successful rewilding projects.
Target bird species: Black-throated Wattle-eye, Collared Palm-Thrush, Green Malkoha, Livingstone’s Flycatcher, Neergard’s Sunbird, Pink-throated Twinspot, Plain-backed Sunbird, Red-throated Twinspot, Southern Banded Snake Eagle, Square-tailed Nightjar
Target mammals: Blue Duiker, Brown Greater Galago, Mozambique Dwarf Galago, Red Forest Duiker, Side-striped Jackal, Suni
Target marine/reptile species: Green Sea Turtle, Loggerhead Sea Turtle
Montebelo Milibangalala
Montebelo Milibangalala Bay Resort boasts a stunning beachfront location that offers direct access to pristine sandy shores. Guests can enjoy a variety of water sports and activities, while indulging in luxurious accommodations with ocean views. The resort is surrounded by the natural beauty of Reserva Especial de Maputo, making it a perfect escape for nature lovers.
Thursday, November 5, 2026
Day 2: Maputo National Park (Coastal Safaris)
Dune Forests, Freshwater Lakes & Coastal Lagoons
We spend a full day exploring Maputo National Park’s diverse coastal mosaic, including freshwater lakes, coastal forests, and open savannas. Game drives focus on tracking specialized sand-forest birds and coastal mammals while scanning the offshore waters for marine life.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance traveled: Approximately 70 km.
Target bird species: Black-headed Apalis, East Coast Akalat, Green Coucal/Malkoha, Lowland Tiny Greenbul, Mangrove Kingfisher, Pale Batis, Plain-backed Sunbird, Rudd’s Apalis, Southern Brown-throated Weaver
Target mammals: Bushpig, Four-toed Sengi, Large Grey Mongoose, Oribi, Red Forest Duiker, Samango Monkey, Suni
Target marine/reptile species: Humpback Whale, Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphin, Leatherback Sea Turtle
Montebelo Milibangalala
You will spend a second night at the incredible Montebelo Milibangalala
Friday, November 6, 2026
Day 3: Maputo National Park (Full Day Exploration)
Deep Forest Trackers & Coastal Wilderness Game Drives
Our second full day in Maputo National Park focuses on deep-forest interior trails and wetland edges. We search for cryptic forest birds, nocturnal mammals along early morning and evening routes, and coastal raptors along the park's isolated beaches.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance traveled: Approximately 70 km.
Target bird species: African Broadbill, Black and White (Vanga) Flycatcher, Eastern Nicator, Livingstone’s Flycatcher, Moustached Grass Warbler, Pale Batis, Pennant-winged Nightjar, Red-winged Warbler, Short-winged (Siffling) Cisticola
Target mammals: African Civet, Bushy-tailed Mongoose, Red Bush Squirrel, Side-striped Jackal, Spotted-necked Otter, Yellow-spotted Hyrax
Target marine/reptile species: Eastern Green Mamba, Mozambique Spitting Cobra, Yellow-bellied Sea Snake
Montebelo Milibangalala
You will spend a final night at the incredible Montebelo Milibangalala
Saturday, November 7, 2026
Day 4: Ponta Milibangalala to Maputo Airport & Flight to Beira
Coastal Transfer, Flight to Beira & Estuarine Birding
After an early morning coastal game drive, we transfer to Maputo International Airport for a short domestic flight north to Beira. Upon arrival in this historic port city, we visit nearby coastal mudflats and estuarine mangroves to scan for shorebirds, gulls, and terns before checking into Hotel Tivoli Beira.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance traveled: Approximately 150 km.
Target bird species: Crab Plover, Eurasian Oystercatcher, Great White Pelican, Gull-billed Tern, Lesser Crested Tern, Mangrove Kingfisher, Pink-backed Pelican, Roseate Tern, Ruddy Turnstone, Terek Sandpiper, Western Osprey
Target mammals: Water (Marsh) Mongoose, White-tailed Mongoose
Hotel Tivoli Beira
Experience the charm of Hotel Tivoli Beira, located in the heart of Beira, offering easy access to local attractions. Delight in a restaurant serving a mix of local and international dishes, and enjoy stunning views of the Indian Ocean from various spots. The hotel also features a spacious outdoor pool for relaxation and personalized service to make your stay memorable.
Sunday, November 8, 2026
Day 5: Beira to Gorongosa National Park
Journey to the Great Rift Valley Wilderness
Leaving Beira, we travel inland toward the southern boundary of the Great African Rift Valley to reach the iconic Gorongosa National Park. We arrive at Montebelo Gorongosa Safari Lodge in time for an afternoon safari across the fever tree forests and savanna floodplains.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance traveled: Approximately 205 km.
Gorongosa National Park
Gorongosa National Park is a remarkable destination with diverse ecosystems and an array of wildlife. Visitors can explore its stunning landscapes, from lush forests to open savannahs. The park is committed to conservation, making it a vital area for endangered species and showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Target bird species: Arnot’s Chat, Böhm’s Spinetail, Collared Palm-Thrush, Dickinson’s Kestrel, Mottled Spinetail, Racket-tailed Roller, Silvery-cheeked Hornbill, Southern Ground Hornbill, Thick-billed Cuckoo
Target mammals: African Wild Dog, Crawshay’s Zebra, Lichtenstein’s Hartebeest, Sable Antelope, Yellow Baboon
Montebelo Gorongosa Lodge & Safari
Experience the beauty of nature at Montebelo Gorongosa Lodge & Safari, located in the heart of Gorongosa National Park. With guided safari tours, guests can explore diverse wildlife while enjoying comfortable accommodations and stunning views. The lodge offers eco-friendly design, local cuisine, and cultural experiences that enrich every stay.
Monday, November 9, 2026
Day 6: Gorongosa National Park (Savanna & Floodplain Safaris)
Big Game Restoration, Floodplains & Miombo Woodlands
We spend the entire day exploring Gorongosa’s thriving savannas, palm thickets, and the floodplains surrounding Lake Urema. Safaris target major predator interactions, megafauna, and specialized woodland raptors and waterbirds.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Target bird species: Black-fronted Bush Shrike, East Coast Akalat, Green Tinkerbird, Green-backed Woodpecker, Green-headed Oriole, Lowland Tiny Greenbul, Pallid Honeyguide, Speckle-throated Woodpecker, Stripe-cheeked Greenbul, Swynnerton’s Robin, White-chested Alethe
Target mammals: Mutable Sun Squirrel, Samango Monkey
Target reptiles: Mount Gorongosa Pygmy Chameleon
Distance traveled: Approximately 70 km.
Montebelo Gorongosa Lodge & Safari
You will spend a second night at the incredible Montebelo Gorongosa Lodge & Safari
Tuesday, November 10, 2026
Day 7: Day Excursion to Mount Gorongosa
Rainforest Canopy Trails & Montane Endemics
We embark on an early morning day expedition from Chitengo up the slopes of Mount Gorongosa. Traversing isolated montane rainforest, we search specifically for rare canopy endemics, forest skulkers, and unique localized reptiles.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance traveled: Approximately 70 km.
Target bird species: Black-fronted Bush Shrike, East Coast Akalat, Green Tinkerbird, Green-backed Woodpecker, Green-headed Oriole, Lowland Tiny Greenbul, Pallid Honeyguide, Speckle-throated Woodpecker, Stripe-cheeked Greenbul, Swynnerton’s Robin, White-chested Alethe
Target mammals: Mutable Sun Squirrel, Samango Monkey
Target reptiles: Mount Gorongosa Pygmy Chameleon
Wednesday, November 11, 2026
Day 8: Gorongosa National Park (Local Game Drives & Hide Birding)
Miombo Woodland Specials & Sunset Safaris
Focusing on localized sectors around Chitengo, we spend the day conducting targeted game drives through miombo woodlands and riverine thickets, visiting waterholes and hides to maximize our sightings of rare woodland birds and elusive nocturnal mammals.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance traveled: Approximately 20 km.
Target bird species: African Emerald Cuckoo, African Golden Oriole, Broad-tailed Paradise Whydah, Cabanis’s Bunting, Miombo Blue-eared Starling, Scaly-throated Honeyguide, Zambezi Indigobird
Target mammals: African Wild Cat, Meller’s Mongoose, Selous’ Mongoose, Striped Polecat
Montebelo Gorongosa Lodge & Safari
You will spend a third night at the incredible Montebelo Gorongosa Lodge & Safari
Thursday, November 12, 2026
Day 9: Gorongosa to Vilanculos Airport & Flight to Bazaruto Island
Transfer to the Indian Ocean & Bazaruto Archipelago
After a final morning drive in Gorongosa, we transfer to the local airfield for a scenic light-aircraft flight over the azure marine waters to Bazaruto Island. We check into Pestana Bazaruto Lodge and enjoy an afternoon exploring the island's white sand beaches and turquoise lagoons.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance traveled: Approximately 30 km.
Target bird species: Crab Plover, Greater Flamingo, Greater Sand Plover, Lesser Flamingo, Terek Sandpiper, Tibetan Sand Plover
Target marine mammals: Dugong, Humpback Whale, Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphin, Spinner Dolphin
Pestana Bazaruto Lodge
Experience the Pestana Bazaruto Lodge, situated on the stunning Ilha de Bazaruto. Enjoy a relaxing stay in private bungalows with ocean views, and indulge in various water sports and activities. With its unique Mozambican architecture and proximity to the beautiful Bazaruto Archipelago, this lodge offers an unforgettable escape into nature.
Friday, November 13, 2026
Day 10: Bazaruto Archipelago National Park (Ocean Safari & Coral Reefs)
Marine Mega-Fauna, Dugong Tracking & Snorkeling
We embark on a half-day marine boat safari across the protected waters of Bazaruto Archipelago National Park. We search for the rare Dugong, sea turtles, and dolphins, with opportunities to snorkel along pristine coral reefs teeming with tropical fish and pelagics.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance traveled: Approximately 20 km.
Bazaruto Archipelago National Marine Park
Discover the Bazaruto Archipelago National Marine Park, where stunning coral reefs and pristine beaches await. This park is home to unique ecosystems and rare species, providing a serene escape for nature lovers. Explore secluded islands and enjoy the blend of marine and terrestrial beauty in this enchanting destination.
Target bird species: Great Snipe, Indian Yellow-nosed Albatross, Lesser Crested Tern, Roseate Tern, Sooty Tern
Target marine/fish species: Black Marlin, Blue Marlin, Dugong, Giant Trevally, Great Hammerhead Shark, Manta Ray, Whale Shark, Whitetip Reef Shark
Target reptiles: Green Sea Turtle, Hawksbill Sea Turtle, Loggerhead Sea Turtle
Pestana Bazaruto Lodge
You'll spend another evening at the wonderful Pestana Bazaruto Lodge
Saturday, November 14, 2026
Day 11: Bazaruto Archipelago National Park (Dhow Sunset & Island Excursion)
Coastal Dune Treks, Mangroves & Traditional Dhow Sailing
Our second full day on the island features a mix of coastal dune walks, wetland birding around interior island lakes, and a traditional dhow boat sundowner cruise across the calm archipelago channels.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance traveled: Approximately 20 km.
Target bird species: Blue Quail, Common Redshank, Goliath Heron, Great White Pelican, Lesser Jacana, Pink-backed Pelican, Rufous-bellied Heron, Wattled Crane
Target marine/fish species: Mahi-Mahi, Sailfish, Yellowfin Tuna
Target reptiles: Leatherback Sea Turtle, Yellow-bellied Sea Snake
Pestana Bazaruto Lodge
You'll spend a final evening at the wonderful Pestana Bazaruto Lodge
Sunday, November 15, 2026
Day 12: Bazaruto Island to Vilanculos & Flight to Johannesburg
Morning Coastal Walk & International Departure
On our final morning, we enjoy a early walk along Bazaruto’s shores to scan for lingering coastal waders before taking a boat and air transfer back to Vilanculos Airport, where we connect to our flight back to Johannesburg.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance traveled: Approximately 30 km.
Target bird species: Crab Plover, Eurasian Oystercatcher, Greater Sand Plover, Terek Sandpiper, Western Osprey
Target marine mammals: Dugong, Spinner Dolphin
What's Included
What's included
Private wildlife and birding guide.
Costs for a host accompanying the group from the source country.
2 x Flights – Maputo to Beira with LAM, and Gorongosa to Vilanculos with Safari Air Africa.
1 x Road transfer – Beira to Gorongosa.
Specialist guided tours and activities:
Guided open safari vehicle day drives – 2 x Maputo NP, 7 x Gorongosa NP. Guided nature trail walk – 1 x Maputo NP. Turtle watching tour – 1 x Maputo NP. Dune forest trail walk – 1 x Maputo NP. Xinguti Lagoon safari game drive (3-hour) – 1 x Maputo NP. Ponta Milibangalala and Ponta Membene safari game drive (6-hour drive) – 1 x Maputo NP. Guided day tour to Mount Gorongosa – 1 x Gorongosa NP. Half-day ocean boat tour – 1 x Bazaruto NP. Dhow sundowner boat tour – 1 x Bazaruto NP.
Accommodation (may change subject to availability, in which case similar will be found).
All ground transport – Maximum 7 participants and 1 guide per luxury touring vehicle.
All road tolls and parking fees.
Bottled water in vehicles whilst travelling per person per day.
3 Meals per day – Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
All entrance fees, conservation and community levies to parks and reserves.
Trip guide.
Personalized species checklists.
What's not included
All airfares, airport departure taxes or visa fees.
Travel and medical insurance (incl. personal equipment and repatriation).
All snacks and drinks (except bottled waters).
Optional excursions.
Specialist guide fees and activities not specified.
Gratuities for guides and local restaurants.
Items of a personal nature.
Laundry and telephone charges.
Tips and gratuities.
Anything not listed under “Included”.
Pricing
About Us
Sustain Safaris helps nature lovers explore their wildest dreams. We lead experienced global wildlife travelers on captivating and responsible expeditions to find Sub-Saharan Africa's rarest, most cryptic, elusive, and endemic species in the most extraordinary destinations.
We offer highly specialized nature tours and expeditions which will immerse you in unique destinations that showcase some of the very best mammal, bird, and biodiversity hotspots.
Guided by our passionate regional experts, you’ll encounter not only iconic species but also enjoy a holistic nature-based and cultural-based experience with comfortable to luxury lodging. Our small groups will also ensure a personalized experience throughout our journey together.
Sustain Safaris is not a volume operator. We go the extra mile, every time. We understand every client has unique needs and we offer bespoke itineraries catering for your preferences and budget.