Coast, River, and Safari Vacation
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.
Day by Day summary
- 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 custom created 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 {: 5200|toCurrency :} per person
Day-by-day
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
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.
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Big 5 Safari
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Birdwatching
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Boat Trip
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Guided Walking Safari
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Night Drive
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Ocean Safari
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Cultural Experience
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Wellness/Spa
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.
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Zebra
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White Rhino
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Spotted Hyena
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Lion
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Leopard
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Kudu
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Humpback Whale
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Hippo
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Elephant
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Crocodile
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Cheetah
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Bushbuck
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Buffalo
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Bottlenose Dolphin
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Black Rhino
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Giraffe
TRIPS TO INSPIRE
From majestic wildlife to out of this world natural wonders, cultural melting pots and enchanting beaches, every bespoke Mahlatini journey is thrilling. Unsure where to visit? Whether it’s a bucket-list adventure, a milestone celebration or simply a much-needed escape, experience the joy with this inspiring selection of favorites.
- Bespoke itineraries
- Flights and transfers included
- Best rates guaranteed