Inspirational safari and beach vacation to South Africa
This exploration of South Africa’s KwaZulu Natal province is a rare chance to discover the magic and wonder of unspoiled beaches, vast wetlands, and roaming wildlife in pristine game reserves. Add to this an unforgettable boat cruise to see hippos and crocodiles on Africa's largest marine estuary. Where else could you spot a breaching whale, a pod of dolphins, rhino, and hippo on one trip? It’s a beach and bush experience like no other.
After sunning yourself on the beach or at the pool of Durban’s ultra-luxurious Oyster Box Hotel, you will experience your Big 5 safari at Sungulwane Private Game Lodge. On thrilling game drives, expect exceptional wildlife viewing, with the area particularly known for its cheetah sightings. Your final stop is the Isimangaliso Wetland Park where you will stay in an idyllic coastal dune forest at Makakatana Bay Lodge. Explore this World Heritage Site on game drives, a boat cruise along the estuary of Lake St Lucia and a picnic and walk on the pristine and deserted coastline.
Starts - Catch your overnight flight from JFK to Durban King Shaka
3 nights - The Oyster Box Hotel, KwaZulu-Natal
3 nights - Sungulwane Private Game Lodge, KwaZulu-Natal
3 nights - Makakatana Bay Lodge, KwaZulu-Natal
Ends - Transfer to Durban King Shaka for your international flight home
At a glance
South Africa
9 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
Low Season from {: 7200|toCurrency :} per person
High Season from {: 7500|toCurrency :} per person
Includes flights from JFK
Itinerary Details
Day-by-day
Make it yours
Tailormake this itinerary to your exact wishes
We've got you covered
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
International flights as detailed
Meals and accommodation as detailed
Drinks (excluding premium brands) at Sungulwane and Makakatana
Twice daily scheduled safari activities
National Park Fees
Group B Hire Car (Toyota Starlet or similar) + GPS
Carbon-offsetting with One Tree Planted
Conservation donation to Save the Rhino
Community projects contribution with Uthando
Excludes
Entry visas and fees
Gratuities
Personal travel insurance
Items of a personal nature
Any sightseeing activities mentioned
Petrol
Additional Driver’s Fee
Additional activities or options on offer at the lodge or camp
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
Birdwatching
Boat Trip
Guided Walking Safari
Night Drive
Ocean Safari
Cultural Experience
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
White Rhino
Spotted Hyena
Lion
Leopard
Kudu
Humpback Whale
Hippo
Elephant
Crocodile
Cheetah
Bushbuck
Buffalo
Bottlenose Dolphin
Black Rhino
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.
+1 347-708-1755
South Africa
9 Nights
Beach
Safari
Includes flights from JFK
Big 5 Safari
Birdwatching
Boat Trip
Guided Walking Safari
Night Drive
Ocean Safari
Cultural Experience
Wellness/Spa
