Mozambique Wildlife 9-Day Tour
Join us on an extraordinary 9-day journey across central Mozambique, exploring two of the country's most iconic wilderness sanctuaries: the thriving savanna floodplains of Gorongosa National Park and the crystalline marine waters of the Bazaruto Archipelago.
Our strategically selected route and focused destinations provide you with the best chance of encountering specific terrestrial and marine targets in the time available, alongside diverse wildlife, iconic African megafauna, and exceptional avifauna.
The route caters to a potential mammal list exceeding 50 species—ranging from apex predators and woodland antelopes to rare Dugongs and marine giants. The region's bird list is equally impressive, spanning savanna, montane forest, and coastal marine ecosystems where we aim to spot well over 300 species.
Safari Highlights include:
Fly into the coastal city of Beira midday, where we greet you for our drive through to Gorongosa.
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 – 4 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
Thursday, October 8, 2026
Friday, October 9, 2026
Saturday, October 10, 2026
Day 3: Day Excursion to Mount Gorongosa
Sunday, October 11, 2026
Monday, October 12, 2026
Tuesday, October 13, 2026
Wednesday, October 14, 2026
Thursday, October 15, 2026
Friday, October 16, 2026
Day 9: Bazaruto Island to Vilanculos & Flight to Johannesburg
Map
A. Beira
Beira, MozambiqueB. Gorongosa National Park
5FMW+F9J, Goinha, MozambiqueC. Bazaruto Archipelago National Marine Park
9F28+7VM, Asneira, MozambiqueD. Vilankulos
Vilankulos, MozambiqueThursday, October 8, 2026
Day 1: Johannesburg to 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.
Friday, October 9, 2026
Day 2: 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
Saturday, October 10, 2026
Day 3: 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
Sunday, October 11, 2026
Day 4: 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
Monday, October 12, 2026
Day 5: 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.
Tuesday, October 13, 2026
Day 6: 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
Wednesday, October 14, 2026
Day 7 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
Thursday, October 15, 2026
Day 8 Bazaruto Archipelago National Park (Island Lagoons & Marine Safaris)
Deep-Water Pelagics, Outer Reef Sanctuaries & Secluded Beaches
Today is dedicated to exploring the outer marine boundaries and deep-water drop-offs of the archipelago. We venture offshore to scan for pelagic seabirds, deep-water gamefish, and ocean-going marine megafauna, followed by an afternoon exploring remote sand dunes and coastal tidal flats for roosting shorebirds.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance traveled: Approximately 20 km.
Target bird species: Crab Plover, Eurasian Oystercatcher, Great White Pelican, Greater Sand Plover, Indian Yellow-nosed Albatross, Lesser Crested Tern, Pink-backed Pelican, Roseate Tern, Ruddy Turnstone, Sooty Tern, Terek Sandpiper, Tibetan Sand Plover, Western Osprey
Target marine mammals & fish: Black Marlin, Blue Marlin, Bull Shark, Dugong, Giant Trevally, Great Hammerhead Shark, Grey Reef Shark, King Mackerel, Mahi-Mahi, Manta Ray, Oceanic Black Tip Shark, Sailfish, Small-bill Spearfish, Southern Right Whale, Spinner Dolphin, Striped Marlin, Wahoo, Whale Shark
Target reptiles: Green Sea Turtle, Hawksbill Sea Turtle, Leatherback Sea Turtle, Loggerhead Sea Turtle, Yellow-bellied Sea Snake
Pestana Bazaruto Lodge
You'll spend a final evening at the wonderful Pestana Bazaruto Lodge
Friday, October 16, 2026
Day 9: 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.
1 x Flight – 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 – 7 x Gorongosa NP. Guided day tour to Mount Gorongosa – 1 x Gorongosa NP. Half-day ocean boat tour – 1 x Bazaruto Archipelago NP. Dhow sundowner boat tour – 1 x Bazaruto Archipelago NP. Guided nature trail walk – 1 x Bazaruto Archipelago 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.