Mozambique Overland: Maputo, Tofo, Bazaruto & Gorongosa Safari

Day 1

Residencial Palmeiras

Meet & greet at the airport Transfer to Palmeiras Guesthouse Residencial Palmeiras is a charming, centrally located guesthouse in the heart of Maputo, offering comfortable and affordable accommodation with a warm, homely atmosphere. Ideally situated within walking distance of the city's main attractions, markets, and restaurants, it serves as a perfect base for exploring Mozambique's vibrant capital. Guests enjoy clean, well-kept rooms, friendly service, and easy access to everything Maputo has to offer.

Accommodation

Residencial Palmeiras

Meals

Breakfast

Day 2

Maputo a Pé Tours Maputo City & Mafalala Bairro Tour

Discover the vibrant heart of Mozambique’s capital on a full-day guided tour. This immersive experience takes you through Maputo’s most iconic streets and into the historic Mafalala bairro, where colonial charm meets contemporary African culture. You’ll explore architectural gems like the Train Station, the Iron House by Eiffel, and the stunning Cathedral, while also gaining deeper insight into the city’s rich history, art, and politics. In Mafalala, your guide will share stories of Mozambique’s past and present, offering a unique glimpse into local life and community heritage. Along the way, you’ll pass lively markets, hidden alleyways, and colorful neighborhoods that reveal the everyday rhythm of Maputo. Lunch will be at your own expense at a local restaurant.

Accommodation

Residencial Palmeiras

Meals

Breakfast

Days 3–4

Dunes de Dovela Eco Lodge

Transfer ~6h Dunes de Dovela Eco Lodge, near Zavora, is a true community lodge that embraces sustainable living and deep respect for nature. Owner-run and rooted in local culture, the lodge offers comfortable eco-friendly tents set among pristine dunes and coastal vegetation. Guests enjoy exceptional seasonal cuisine made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, while supporting community projects and experiencing authentic Mozambican hospitality. Included activities range from dune walks, bird watching, and kayaking to sundowners, star gazing, and meaningful community visits. The day is yours to shape as you please — pick from the range of activities on offer, or simply wander the dunes at your own pace, or unwind with a book in front of your tent/bungalow.

Accommodation

Dunes de Dovela Eco Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5

TIC TAC Inhambane City Tour

Transfer ~2.5h to Tofo On your transfer, you will stop in Inhambane, one of the oldest cities on the East African coast. Your knowledgeable guide will take you on a short walk through the historic center, sharing insights into its rich cultural heritage, colonial architecture, and vibrant local life before continuing your journey to Tofo Beach. Committed to sustainability, Blu@Tofo sits directly on a quiet stretch of beach just outside the centre of Tofo, with stunning views of the ocean and coastline. Simple, comfortable, and refreshingly casual, it's the perfect place to relax between activities. The heart of the village with its colorful market and variety of restaurants is just a ten-minute walk away.

Accommodation

Blu at Tofo

Meals

Breakfast

Day 6

Ocean Safari with Tofo Scuba

An Ocean Safari in Tofo is an unforgettable adventure out on the Indian Ocean. You'll head out by boat in search of incredible marine life like whale sharks, manta rays, dolphins, and even humpback whales (in season). With a bit of luck, you’ll have the chance to snorkel alongside these gentle giants, with snorkeling gear provided. The guides are marine experts who help spot wildlife and ensure a safe, respectful experience. It’s one of the best ways to see Tofo’s rich underwater world up close. In the afternoon, explore a local village. Learn about the local way of life and the preparation of Mozambique's national dish, Matapa – a traditional stew made from cassava leaves, coconut milk and ground peanuts, often served with rice.

Accommodation

Blu at Tofo

Meals

Breakfast

Day 7

Blu at Tofo

The day is yours to enjoy. Relax on the beach, soak up the laid-back atmosphere, or choose from the many activities Tofo has to offer.

Day 8

Bahia Mar Boutique Hotel

Transfer ~4.5h to Vilanculos - a lively seaside town renowned for its beautiful beaches, vibrant local culture, and as the gateway to the spectacular Bazaruto Archipelago. Along the way, stop to admire the majestic baobab trees that dot the landscape. Bahia Mar Boutique Hotel welcomes you with stylish comfort right in the heart of Vilanculos, the perfect jumping-off point to explore the stunning Bazaruto Archipelago. From here, you can relax by the pool or stroll through the vibrant town before setting off on unforgettable boat trips, snorkeling adventures, and island explorations.

Day 9

Bazaruto & Two Mile Reef

Set out on an exciting day trip by motorboat to explore Bazaruto Island and Two Mile Reef. Swim in crystal-clear waters, snorkel vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, and relax on pristine sandy beaches. It’s the perfect way to discover the incredible beauty of the Bazaruto Archipelago in just one unforgettable day. A delicious, freshly prepared lunch featuring local seafood and seasonal ingredients is included, served beachside or on board, making for a perfect mid-day break as you soak in the stunning surroundings.

Accommodation

Bahia Mar Boutique Hotel

Meals

Breakfast

Day 10

Bahia Mar Boutique Hotel

Day 11

Montebelo Gorongosa Lodge & Safari

Today is a long driving day with a 5am start—the transfer to Gorongosa National Park takes around 9 hours. You will not be disappointed, though: once you arrive at Montebelo Gorongosa Lodge, you’ll step into a world of incredible biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes. Gorongosa is renowned for its vast savannahs, lush forests, and shimmering lakes, home to elephants, lions, hippos, buffalo, and hundreds of bird species. Your stay at Montebelo Gorongosa offers comfortable accommodations nestled in nature, with expert guides ready to take you on exciting game drives!

Accommodation

Montebelo Gorongosa Lodge & Safari

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 12

Morning- and afternoon game drives in Gorongosa National Park

Start your day early with a morning game drive in Gorongosa National Park, when the wildlife is most active and the temperatures are cooler. As the sun rises over the vast savannahs and rolling hills, your expert guide will take you through diverse habitats—ranging from open plains to dense woodlands—on the lookout for elephants, lions, buffalo, hippos, and a rich variety of birdlife. The morning light creates perfect photo opportunities and the chance to witness animals beginning their day in the wild. After a relaxing lunch and some downtime at Montebelo Gorongosa Lodge, head out again for an afternoon game drive. As the heat of the day fades, the park comes alive with activity once more. You may spot predators like leopards emerging for their evening hunt, herds of antelope moving to waterholes, and hippos wallowing in the rivers. The golden hour light enhances the stunning landscapes and wildlife sightings, making this drive a magical way to end the day in one of Africa’s most spectacular parks.

Accommodation

Montebelo Gorongosa Lodge & Safari

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 13

Morning & afternoon game drives in Gorongosa National Park

Rise early for a second morning game drive, with fresh eyes and another chance to spot what the park has been hiding. Gorongosa is one of the few places in Africa where you might encounter the endangered African wild dog, and with each drive through its diverse habitats the park has a way of surprising you. After lunch and some downtime at the lodge, head out once more for a final sunset drive before continuing your journey.

Accommodation

Montebelo Gorongosa Lodge & Safari

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 14

Departure

Transfer ~3h to Beira International Airport for your departing flight