
The Best of Durban and the Elephant Coast
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.
Day by Day summary
- 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
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South Africa
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13 Nights
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Beach
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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 {: 9000|toCurrency :} per person
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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
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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4WD 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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Whale Watching
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Helicopter Flights
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Scenic Flights
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Conservation Experience
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Cultural Experience
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Canoeing/Kayaking
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Cycling
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Fishing
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Golf
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Hiking
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Horse riding
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Snorkeling/Scuba Diving
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Kids Club
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Kids Bushcraft
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Fly Camping
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Photography Safari
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City Sights
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Natural Wonders
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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.
TRIPS TO INSPIRE
From exhilarating wildlife encounters to out-of-this-world natural wonders, echoes of ancient empires, and rose-gold beaches, every bespoke Mahlatini journey is designed to immerse you in the extraordinary. Whether it’s a bucket-list trip, marking a milestone, or a soul-stirring retreat, let this handpicked selection inspire your next escape.
- Bespoke itineraries
- Flights and transfers included
- Best rates guaranteed