Gorongosa National Park, Vilankulos & Dovela Divine Beaches, Tropical Islands & Wild Safaris

Duration: 13 Days | 12 Nights from Beira to Vilankulos

Experience the wonders of Gorongosa National Park with a 4-night stay at Montebelo Girassol lodge & safaris. Embark on exhilarating game drives, witness breathtaking sunsets, and indulge in the park's incredible biodiversity. Then, unwind with 5 nights at Vilankulos Beach lodge, exploring the pristine Bazaruto Archipelago. Conclude your journey with 3 nights at Dunes de Dovela, immersing yourself in nature and local culture.

DAY 1: Beira – Gorongosa National Park
Greetings at Beira airport and transfer to Gorongosa National Park (approx 3h30). Check-in for 4 nights in a standard bungalow at Montebelo Girassol lodge & safaris. Located at Chitengo, the park’s head quarter. Rest of the day at leisure.

DAY 2: Gorongosa
Wake up with the sunrise. Breakfast will be ready at the restaurant. Departure for your first game viewing safari of the day (duration approx. 3h) to explore the amazingly diverse wilderness of Gorongosa and experience the beauty and wilderness of the National Park as well as its incredible bio-diversity. Gorongosa is also a birder’s paradise.

Large mammals are usually still active at this hour. Your experienced guide is always in tune with the surroundings and will astound you with what he picks out in the bush long before you have even become aware of the grey shape in the distance. Return to the lodge. Time to freshen up, rest and have lunch before the afternoon game drive. As the sun begins to dip, head for the lookout point to enjoy a sundowner and marvel at the awesome display of color brought on by the setting sun. Return to the camp with the night.

Day 3: Gorongosa
Wake up with the sunrise and jump in the vehicle for a full day safari in the park. Picnic in the bush. Back to camp late afternoon.

DAY 4: Gorongosa
This morning you will have the choice between a walking and a canoe safari (subject to availability and water level). In the afternoon, you will board the vehicle for a last sunset safari. Back to camp with the night. The duration of each activity is approximately 3h/3h30 unless otherwise stated. It is possible, with an extra charge, to spend one or more nights in a "camp out"; a night in a tent with bedding in the wilderness of the national park. Early afternoon your guide will introduce you to the area and the riches of the park before embarking on your first safari. You will arrive at the ephemeral camp for the traditional sundowners in the bush. Welcome and meeting of the team. Settle in and enjoy some free time before savouring a delicious meal prepared by the chef. Enjoy the starry night and fall asleep to the sounds of the bush. The park's only semi-permanent camp is simple, comfortable, intimate and friendly. A unique and unforgettable experience. Wake up before sunrise with a good cup of coffee and snack before setting off on an exciting bush exploration on foot or 4x4 to Chitengo where you will be back for breakfast.

DAY 5: Gorongosa – Vilanculos
After breakfast, road transfer to Vilanculos (approx. 10h – LAM flight sometimes is an option). Check in at Vilankulos Beach lodge in a sea view room for 5 nights.
The cozy lodge is located right on the beach and offers lovely views on the Bazaruto islands. It is located 10 minutes north from Vilanculos center and lovingly nested in a large garden.

DAYS 6 to 9: Vilankulos
Absolute relaxation and indulgence. Discover the wonderful Bazaruto Archipelago, sail, go deep sea fishing, kite-surfing, dive the beautiful pristine reefs or just soak in the views. Enjoy fantastic scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, stand up paddling, whales watching, dolphins and whale shark (in season), walks, birding, boat trips to the islands, horse riding, island hopping not to forget contemplation! One Bazaruto Islands boat trip is included during your stay. The speed boat leaves around 8.30 am and will take you to Bazaruto Island in approximately 45 minutes. You can snorkel, explore the island and walk the high sand dunes for even more incredible views over the islands and the sand banks. Lunch will be served on the beach. A stop on Benguerra Island for a lovely swim will be made on the way back to your lodge.

DAY 10: Vilanculos – Dovela
After breakfast, private transfer with driver to Dovela (approximately 4h) in Inhambane province. Check in at Dunes de Dovela in your sea view chalet for 3 nights on a full board basis. Surrounded by the Indian Ocean, the coastal forest and the inland lake of Dongane, built by nature enthusiasts, hosted by Dovela’s community who knows exceptionally well its surroundings. The eco-lodge is definitely turned towards the discovery and sensible experience of the environment. From July (sometimes as early as May) to October, the majestic humpback whales can be seen from the privacy of your terrace.

DAY 11: Dovela’s Dunes
A pristine beach, a tidal pool perfect to discover or re-discover the great delight of the snorkelling (provided by the lodge), a beach umbrella, some beach towels and hats: nothing better to recover from the tiredness of the journey. In the afternoon, guided walk (2 5 hours) through the forest to the inland lake Dongane for the sunset. Introduction to the traditional use of plants and the orchard of the forest.

DAY 12: Dovela’s Dunes
A coffee at the sunrise over the Indian Ocean, the occasion is unique to identify the beautiful birds of the area. After this 2 to 3 hour walk lead by a professional field guide (FGASA 1026 trail guide level 1), the Trompeter Hornbill flight, the song of the Dark-capped Bulbul or the colours of the Livingstone’s Turaco will have revealed all theirs secret. (Binoculars, books, lists and CD provided by the lodge). Late breakfast at the restaurant. The observation of the birds and the Vervet monkeys goes on in the hides or on top of the platforms scattered around the lodge. From its history, the project « Dunes de Dovela » has developed a very close relationship with the local community. This particular relationship allows now our guests to visit in a simple and peaceful atmosphere the villages in order to meet the daily life of the Chope’s community. A 4x4 transfer of 10mn opens the doors of Dovela and its neighbours. Guided walk (2,5 hours) in the heart of Africa: Nhacoobo’s borehole, Dovela’s school, the vegetable garden of Chume or the manioc flour fabrication process are real opportunities of exchanges and meeting. Transfer back to the lodge or it is possible to walk back to the lodge (1 hour walk). Or just relax on the beach, in a hammock or on a sofa. The library dedicated to nature, games and the bar stay available at all time. At night you can go for Bush baby quest.

DAY 13: Dovela’s Dunes – Vilankulos
After breakfast, transfer to Vilankulos airport (approximately 4 hours) and continuation of your trip.

Tour Price
• Price shown is for a person based on twin share accommodation.
• All prices displayed are subject to availability and can be withdrawn or varied without notice.
• Prices are guaranteed once booking is confirmed by us and paid in full by the due date.
• Depending on your needs and group size (individual, couple, family, group, etc.) we will provide the final pricing for your tour.

Inclusions:
• Accommodation during 4 nights in a standard bungalow at Montebelo Girassol including: breakfasts, 4 guided safaris in 11 seaters open vehicle (including a full day one with picnic), 1 canoe or walking safari, national park daily entrance fee
• Accommodation during 5 nights in sea view bedroom at Vilankulos Beach Lodge including: breakfasts, wi-fi, use of pool and non-motorized equipment, 1 day trip to the Bazaruto islands including lunch and snorkeling
• Accommodation during 3 nights in double sea view chalet at Dunes de Dovela including: Full board, guided nature, birding & cultural walks, water, tea, coffee, use of snorkels and canoes
• Private transfers with driver from Beira airport to Gorongosa, Gorongosa to Vilankulos, Vilankulos to Dunes de Dovela and Dunes de Dovela to Vilankulos airport.

Exclusions:
• Flights and associated taxes
• Non mentioned activities and excursions, diving and boat trips
• Diving at Vilankulos AUD$213 for a double dive in the Bazaruto
• Bazaruto National Park fee AUD$30 per day out in the archipelago (subjected to change)
• Non mentioned meals and beverages
• Personal and travel Insurances (mandatory)
• Visa fee
• Personal expenses and gratuities
• Privately guided safaris in Gorongosa
• Camp out night(s) in Gorongosa
• LAM or charter flight from VNX to Beira or Chitengo, charter flight from Chitengo to Beira airport
• Helicopter scenic flights over Gorongosa and the Bazaruto archipelago

Please refer to our Standard Booking Conditions for booking terms and conditions.