Discover delightful Durban and of South Africa’s KwaZulu Natal’s stunning East Coast with a mixture of city, beach and safari in this fabulous itinerary. We love this itinerary for its varied wildlife and scenery, and as this is home to the Zulu's; there is plenty of culture to immerse yourself in. You'll arrive in Durban where you will collect your hire car and drive to the Oyster Box Hotel, one of South Africa’s most cherished and iconic hotels.
With remarkable coastal views, understated luxury and gracious hospitality you may not wish to leave this seaside haven. From here you will journey north to Makakatana Bay Lodge in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park near St Lucia. Explore the untouched wilderness of the park; discover endless wetlands, varied wildlife and beautiful beaches. Be far removed from daily life as travel up towards the Mozambique border to the truly remote Thonga Beach Lodge, set on the pristine shores of the Maputuland Coast. Stay in a chic, eco-sensitive hut and enjoy a range of nature activities from scuba diving and snorkeling to kayaking and walking. If you are lucky and time things just right, you will arrive on the beaches of the Elephant Coast in time to witness turtles laying eggs and whale sharks basking off the coast. Cap your experience with 3 nights at the spectacular Phinda Mountain Lodge in the Phinda Private Game Reserve, where you will be spoilt with an abundance of activities including Big 5 game drives.
Starts - Catch your overnight flight from JFK to Durban King Shaka
4 nights - The Oyster Box Hotel, Durban, South Africa
2 nights - Makakatana Bay Lodge, Elephant Coast, South Africa
4 nights - Thonga Beach Lodge, Elephant Coast, South Africa
3 nights - Phinda Mountain Lodge, Phinda Private Game Reserve, South Africa
Ends - Transfer to Durban King Shaka for your international flight home
At a glance
South Africa
13 Nights
Beach
Safari
Tailormade itineraries
Every Mahlatini trip is tailored to your exact travel wishes—no readymade tours or set departures. Get in touch with our experts to start creating your bespoke itinerary.
Guide Price
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High Season from {: 10100|toCurrency :} per person
Includes flights from JFK
Itinerary Details
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Tailormake this itinerary to your exact wishes
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Our trips are unashamedly high-end but always deliver excellent value for money. Our guide price covers the majority of trip costs upfront, on a per person basis, including international flights and all transfers.
Includes
Accommodation as specified
Meals as specified
All scheduled activities offered by the camps or lodges
Car hire, group C car (Toyota Corolla or similar) including full cover, unlimited km and taxes
National Parks and conservation entry fees
Carbon-offsetting with One Tree Planted
Conservation donation to Save the Rhino
Community projects contribution with Uthando
Excludes
Gratuities
Personal travel insurance
Visas and visa fees where relevant
Petrol
Beverages with the exception of all inclusive hotels
Additional activities not included as scheduled at hotels, lodges or camps
Indulge your passions
ACTIVITIES
This sample trip offers countless adventures and activities to ensure lifetime memories are made. From unforgettable thrills to indulgent relaxation, choose those that appeal most and we will curate your perfect itinerary.
Big 5 Safari
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat Trip
Guided Walking Safari
Night Drive
Ocean Safari
Whale Watching
Helicopter Flights
Scenic Flights
Conservation Experience
Cultural Experience
Canoeing/Kayaking
Cycling
Fishing
Golf
Hiking
Horse Riding
Snorkelling/Scuba Diving
Kids Club
Kids Bushcraft
Fly Camping
Photographic Safari
City Sights
Natural Wonders
Wellness/Spa
Enriching encounters
ICONIC WILDLIFE
Whether you want to tick off the Big Five or encounter specific safari species and sea creatures on your safari and coastal stay, our expert guides reveal the typical wildlife sightings to expect on this sample trip.
Zebra
Wildebeest
White Rhino
Spotted Hyena
Lion
Leopard
Leatherback Turtle
Kudu
Hippo
Hawksbill Turtle
Elephant
Crocodile
Cheetah
Buffalo
Bottlenose Dolphin
Black Rhino
African Fish Eagle
Giraffe
Sample itineraries
TRIPS TO INSPIRE
From exhilarating wildlife encounters to out-of-this-world natural wonders, echoes of ancient empires, and rose-gold beaches, every bespoke journey is designed to immerse you in the extraordinary. Whether you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime safari, a milestone celebration, a soul-stirring retreat, or simply looking to travel well and with purpose, these itineraries offer a starting point for what’s possible. As a top tour operator in the world, as recognised by both Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveller, we will guide you on how to shape the ultimate expedition.
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South Africa
13 Nights
Beach
Safari
Includes flights from JFK
Big 5 Safari
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat Trip
Guided Walking Safari
Night Drive
Ocean Safari
Whale Watching
Helicopter Flights
Scenic Flights
Conservation Experience
Cultural Experience
Canoeing/Kayaking
Cycling
Fishing
Golf
Hiking
Horse Riding
Snorkelling/Scuba Diving
Kids Club
Kids Bushcraft
Fly Camping
Photographic Safari
City Sights
Natural Wonders
Wellness/Spa
