Mozambique: An April Escapade with a Safari Twist

Mozambique: An April Escapade with a Safari Twist

Mozambique: An April Escapade with a Safari Twist

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April is a splendid time to explore and travel the world, and this year, our travel itinerary is spotlighting the exotic Southeast African country of Mozambique.

Renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and the promise of an exciting safari experience in combination with South Africa, this intriguing destination is sure to kindle the wanderlust in you.

April is a delightful time, weather-wise, for Mozambique, conveniently avoiding the intense heat of December-March and the heavy rains of February. This makes it an optimal season to enjoy the country’s amazing destinations without any weather-related issues.

Our first beach encounter was at Machangulo. The untouched splendor of this locale is simply captivating.

The resort, located between the Indian Ocean and Maputo Special Reserve, offered an excellent mix of breathtaking landscapes and luxury. The tranquil environment and crystal blue waters set the perfect scene for snorkeling, fishing, or simply unwinding.

From Machangulo, we journeyed to the White Pearl Resorts, a hidden treasure nestled in the dunes of a pristine beach. The luxury suites, with their stunning ocean view, provided a front-row seat to the spectacular landscape. Days here were spent enjoying the beach, exploring the vibrant marine life, and savoring meals under the starry African sky.

The journey then unfolded towards Vilanculos, a quaint town that is the gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago. Here, we stayed at the &Beyond Benguerra, Anantara Bazaruto, and Sussurro. Each resort radiated a unique charm, featuring luxurious accommodations, world-class cuisine, and a myriad of activities including beach horseback riding and traditional dhow sailing. Doesn’t this scream HONEYMOON? 

The Bazaruto Archipelago, a group of islands in the Indian Ocean, is a UNESCO-protected marine reserve. This underwater wonderland showcased a vibrant spectacle of coral reefs, tropical fish, and even the elusive dugong. Exploring these underwater marvels marked a memorable highlight of our trip.

While Mozambique offers an abundance of beach activities, the idea of incorporating a fantastic safari experience takes the excitement to another level. Currently, this perfect blend of beach and safari is best achieved by combining a South African safari with a Mozambican beach vacation. The majestic wildlife of South Africa followed by the soothing Mozambican coastlines is an adventure worth every moment and if you wanted to have a Honeymoon safari but you always dreamed of a honeymoon on a fantastic beach, well, here is your answer. 

In a nutshell, Mozambique in April will be an unforgettable journey – the warmth of the people, the exotic flavors of the local cuisine, the charm of the beaches, and the vibrancy of marine life. If you’re scouting for an exceptional destination for your April getaway or a fabulously romantic Honeymoon, I’d highly recommend Mozambique. And who knows, you might just find yourself in the midst of the dreamy beach and safari combo that Mozambique is working towards!

Ready to plan your unforgettable journey to Mozambique?

Let’s make it a reality together! Book a FREE 30-minute consultation with me, German, today. We’ll craft your perfect itinerary and create a vacation that truly exceeds your expectations. Start your Mozambique adventure now!”

What Our Clients Say

xavier gordillo
xavier gordillo
2023-05-20
Espectaculares vistas y paisajes de Sudáfrica. Un fantástico descanso en la naturaleza. Muy recomendable el servicio de Nanan Travel.
Vanessa Mazzucchelli
Vanessa Mazzucchelli
2023-05-20
Espectacular el safari!!! Gracias Nanan Travel .. super recomendable.
Rodrigo Rivera
Rodrigo Rivera
2023-05-10
Gracias German por todo el soporte antes, durante y despues de todo el viaje. Fuiste clave para tener una luna de miel SOÑADA. Empezando por la tremenda ruta Nyota en Africa y terminando con Malvidas. Excelente eleccion. Tu soporte y compañia durante todo el viaje nos dio la tranquilidad de poder disfrutarlo como se debe. Gracias!!
Manuela Duharte Clever
Manuela Duharte Clever
2023-05-03
todo excelente. la atencion y la cercania de German con nosotros hizo todo mas facil. la seleccion de la ruta Nyota en Africa y los hoteles fue muy buena eleccion. terminar con Maldivas para descansar, mejor todavia. Gracias German!!
Polly Lambert
Polly Lambert
2023-04-18
German was a huge help with planning our trip to SA. He booked us a two-day guide for our time in Cape Town, who was incredible, plus German organised our unforgettable safari at Kariega Game Reserve. He took care of everything, plus gave us some valuable advice on where to stay too. Wouldn't hesitate to recommend!
Drew Kirkbride
Drew Kirkbride
2023-04-05
Germain guided us wonderfully through South Africa. When we first booked, he found plenty of alternatives to create a more authentic experience considering the needs and desires of the group. The hotel options were top notch, especially staying at Kitara Last World and the driver her uses for Cape Town and Stellenbosch was prompt, consistent, never rushed, and handles the group. A highlight was the sunset boat tour Private to our group. Only recommendation for change might have been pre-scheduling some of the wineries or finding some boutique options, though this did not change our experience.
Ted Lampa
Ted Lampa
2023-04-04
German from Nanan Travel organized the perfect South African birthday celebration for me and my friends. From beginning to end the trip was flawless. Drivers were organized for all transfers and day trips. The accommodations were impeccably beautiful! Everything about the safari was astounding! German's restaurant and vineyard recommendations were outstanding! This trip exceeded our expectations! I will definitely be booking future travel plans with German.
Lauren Frank
Lauren Frank
2023-04-02
We had a fabulous and seamless experience using Nanan Travel. He helped arrange our Safari experience at Kariega Game Reserve, including transportation to/from. He was attentive, quick to respond despite a huge time change between SA and North Carolina, USA, and helpful even with suggestions for Cape Town/Stellenbosch/Franschhoek. I would highly recommend!
Nick Depner
Nick Depner
2023-03-16
German pulled together and incredible itinerary for us! His fantastic recommendations during our entire trip, great lodging, attention to detail, and personalized service made this a truly unforgettable vacation!
Rafael Balaguer
Rafael Balaguer
2023-01-26
There's a certain ease and excitement when you don't have to worry about the rest of your trip living up to an incredible yesterday, because today and tomorrow are going to be EVEN BETTER. That's what you can expect from a South African trip planned by Nanan Travel. Just when you think it can't get better, it does. German planned every detail, so we didn't have to worry about a thing. Excursions were varied and executed flawlessly. Transfers between properties were seamless and hassle-free. And check-ins were actually fun and some of my favorite moments. Our trip had a perfect pace of relaxation, sightseeing, adventure, and surprises. It took us off the beaten path (literally) one day and 10 feet from a lion’s mouth the next. I arrived home after nearly 3 weeks with a full heart and memories I will never forget. Thank you, German, for helping to make my first time in South Africa so unforgettable.

Discover Victoria Falls in February: The Ultimate Experience

Discover Victoria Falls in February: The Ultimate Experience

Discover Victoria Falls in February: The Ultimate Experience

Blog post with #NANANtravel
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February is a fantastic time to explore Victoria Falls, one of the world’s most impressive natural wonders. With optimal water levels and an array of exhilarating activities, there’s never a dull moment during a visit to Victoria Falls in February.

Victoria Falls, affectionately known as Vic Falls, is a breathtaking destination that can be enjoyed year-round. However, February offers the perfect balance of water levels, allowing visitors to experience both the power of the falls and the thrill of activities like Devil’s Pool. From March to June, water levels are too high for Devil’s Pool, while during the dry season, the experience isn’t quite as impressive.

Spanning 1 kilometer in width, Vic Falls transforms into an adventure lover’s paradise during the low river season. This is the perfect time for adrenaline-pumping activities such as white water rafting, high-speed boat rides, bungee jumping, zip-lining, and the exhilarating giant swing. Don’t miss a visit to The Lookout Cafe for stunning views and delicious food.

For a more serene experience, visit The Elephant Cafe, where you can get up close and personal with these gentle giants. To fully immerse yourself in the wonders of Vic Falls, we recommend a minimum stay of two nights, which allows enough time for a helicopter flight over the falls and various activities.

Victoria Falls is accessible via two airports: Livingstone Airport in Zambia or Victoria Falls Airport in Zimbabwe. To make the most of your trip, consider obtaining a multiple-entry visa, as activities are spread across both countries. A safari in Chobe National Park in Botswana or Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe adds an unforgettable touch to your adventure.

 

When choosing where to stay, consider the luxurious Royal Livingstone Hotel, located close to the falls. For those staying longer than two nights, we recommend upriver lodges like the exquisite Royal Chundu Lodge, which offers a variety of unique activities.

In summary, February is an ideal time to visit Victoria Falls, with a perfect blend of powerful falls and exciting activities. Combine this unforgettable experience with other African destinations like Cape Town and a safari for a 10-12 day trip of a lifetime.

Ready to plan your dream vacation to Victoria Falls in February?

Book a 30-minute consultation with me via Calendly. During our call, we’ll discuss your travel preferences, budget, and itinerary. I will provide you with expert advice and help you plan an unforgettable adventure that meets all of your needs and expectations. Don’t miss this opportunity – schedule your consultation today!

What Our Clients Say

xavier gordillo
xavier gordillo
2023-05-20
Espectaculares vistas y paisajes de Sudáfrica. Un fantástico descanso en la naturaleza. Muy recomendable el servicio de Nanan Travel.
Vanessa Mazzucchelli
Vanessa Mazzucchelli
2023-05-20
Espectacular el safari!!! Gracias Nanan Travel .. super recomendable.
Rodrigo Rivera
Rodrigo Rivera
2023-05-10
Gracias German por todo el soporte antes, durante y despues de todo el viaje. Fuiste clave para tener una luna de miel SOÑADA. Empezando por la tremenda ruta Nyota en Africa y terminando con Malvidas. Excelente eleccion. Tu soporte y compañia durante todo el viaje nos dio la tranquilidad de poder disfrutarlo como se debe. Gracias!!
Manuela Duharte Clever
Manuela Duharte Clever
2023-05-03
todo excelente. la atencion y la cercania de German con nosotros hizo todo mas facil. la seleccion de la ruta Nyota en Africa y los hoteles fue muy buena eleccion. terminar con Maldivas para descansar, mejor todavia. Gracias German!!
Polly Lambert
Polly Lambert
2023-04-18
German was a huge help with planning our trip to SA. He booked us a two-day guide for our time in Cape Town, who was incredible, plus German organised our unforgettable safari at Kariega Game Reserve. He took care of everything, plus gave us some valuable advice on where to stay too. Wouldn't hesitate to recommend!
Drew Kirkbride
Drew Kirkbride
2023-04-05
Germain guided us wonderfully through South Africa. When we first booked, he found plenty of alternatives to create a more authentic experience considering the needs and desires of the group. The hotel options were top notch, especially staying at Kitara Last World and the driver her uses for Cape Town and Stellenbosch was prompt, consistent, never rushed, and handles the group. A highlight was the sunset boat tour Private to our group. Only recommendation for change might have been pre-scheduling some of the wineries or finding some boutique options, though this did not change our experience.
Ted Lampa
Ted Lampa
2023-04-04
German from Nanan Travel organized the perfect South African birthday celebration for me and my friends. From beginning to end the trip was flawless. Drivers were organized for all transfers and day trips. The accommodations were impeccably beautiful! Everything about the safari was astounding! German's restaurant and vineyard recommendations were outstanding! This trip exceeded our expectations! I will definitely be booking future travel plans with German.
Lauren Frank
Lauren Frank
2023-04-02
We had a fabulous and seamless experience using Nanan Travel. He helped arrange our Safari experience at Kariega Game Reserve, including transportation to/from. He was attentive, quick to respond despite a huge time change between SA and North Carolina, USA, and helpful even with suggestions for Cape Town/Stellenbosch/Franschhoek. I would highly recommend!
Nick Depner
Nick Depner
2023-03-16
German pulled together and incredible itinerary for us! His fantastic recommendations during our entire trip, great lodging, attention to detail, and personalized service made this a truly unforgettable vacation!
Rafael Balaguer
Rafael Balaguer
2023-01-26
There's a certain ease and excitement when you don't have to worry about the rest of your trip living up to an incredible yesterday, because today and tomorrow are going to be EVEN BETTER. That's what you can expect from a South African trip planned by Nanan Travel. Just when you think it can't get better, it does. German planned every detail, so we didn't have to worry about a thing. Excursions were varied and executed flawlessly. Transfers between properties were seamless and hassle-free. And check-ins were actually fun and some of my favorite moments. Our trip had a perfect pace of relaxation, sightseeing, adventure, and surprises. It took us off the beaten path (literally) one day and 10 feet from a lion’s mouth the next. I arrived home after nearly 3 weeks with a full heart and memories I will never forget. Thank you, German, for helping to make my first time in South Africa so unforgettable.

The Sardine Run

The Sardine Run

The Sardine Run

Blog post with #NANANtravel
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Two years and 1 month, lots of emails, and lots of back and forward arrangements, were what it took us to finally be able to do the Sardine run.

It all started with an email from a friend saying that his uncle was doing the Sardine run and had invited him, he asked if I wanted to join then all of a sudden we were 8 people, all super excited and happy. Then Covid came along and put everything on hold. After covid, a few people had to cancel, and we were only 4, and later on, at the venue, we were joined by two more travelers from Italy and now we can call them friends. 

Let me start by explaining what is the Sardine run and what makes it so special. The Sardine run is a seasonal movement of fish and predators along the Eastern Cape coastline to the South Coast of KwaZulu Natal, in South Africa. The biggest natural event on Earth, and the only animal event that can be seen from space.

The sardine run of southern Africa occurs from May through July when billions of sardines spawn in the cool waters of the Agulhas Bank and move northward along the east coast of South Africa. Their sheer numbers create a feeding frenzy along the coastline. The run, containing millions of individual sardines, occurs when a current of cold water heads north from the Agulhas Bank up to Mozambique where it then leaves the coastline and goes further east into the Indian Ocean.

In terms of biomass, researchers estimate the sardine run could rival East Africa’s great wildebeest migration. However, little is known about the phenomenon. It is believed that the water temperature has to drop below 21 °C in order for the migration to take place. In 2003, the sardines failed to ‘run’ for the third time in 23 years. While 2005 saw a good run, 2006 marked another non-run. 

Thank you, Wikipedia. 

Now, I don’t want to bore you with specific details but I will try to go day by day and explain briefly what we experienced. Oh… We did a 4-day safari in Kariega Game reserve before the sardine run and that was amazing. It was halfway between Port Elizabeth and East London, although you can fly directly into East London. 

DAY 1 – Sunday

 

We arrive midday and had lunch and in the afternoon we had a briefing and went to try on the wetsuits and fins, etc.

DAY 2 – MONDAY

 

Very early morning wake-up call, and we had to be ready to leave for the launching area by 7:45 after a while we arrived at where the boat was, and off we went, the first day was full of excitement for what we might see and we did see thousands of Dolphins, I’m not exaggerating, I have never seen so many dolphins together, but we didn’t see the actual sardines.

DAY 3 – TUESDAY

 

Wasn’t a good day, didn’t see much, maybe a couple of whales on a mission so we didn’t get to spend time with them (keep in mind one day of the week is the rest day), when we came back we were considering taking the rest day on Wednesday, but when we spoke with the organizers they told us that Thursday was going to be a bad weather day so we decided to go out on Wednesday.

DAY 4 – WEDNESDAY

 

We went out very early again and we were quite unlucky but we did see dolphins and some whales, no sardines, our spirits were down and very tired. 

DAY 5 – THURSDAY

 

We didn’t go out to sea, rather we enjoyed a nice chilled day we went to do some quad biking at a nearby reserve which was lots of fun. Although next time I’ll choose the Horse riding experience though.

DAY 6 – FRIDAY

 

we went out with the hope of finally seeing what they call a bait ball, that’s when the dolphins force the sardines into a group and that’s when all the predators around join the feast and go crazy. How do we know when there’s a bait ball and where it is? Well, first of all, we always follow the birds, specifically the gannets, they are the key to finding them, anyway, back to day 6, we saw a couple of whales some Humpbacks and a couple of Bryde’s whales, now, the amazing thing about seeing the Bryde’s whale was that they are usually very fast and sneaky, difficult to see but this one, in particular, was going very slow and decided to hang out with us for a while, it was great, then we ran into a seal and we swam with it. But besides these few amazing encounters, no Sardines, and no Bait ball.

Now, we are back at the beach resort and we are feeling really bad because it is very exhausting to be at sea for so many hours and getting wet and the wind and all that, We had great weather and were super lucky with that, but we weren’t happy, to say the least.

DAY 7 – SATURDAY

 

it’s a windy morning, we’ve changed the boat launching spot, much closer to the resort. We get on the boat, it’s windy, we are getting splashed all over and the sea is a bit rough so after 45 minutes I am ready to quit!  

I tell myself, give it another 15 minutes and then complain, well, 10 minutes later our Sea Biologist and guide, Mark spots lots of Gannets quite far away and we don’t see any dolphins (which is kind of a prerequisite for a bait ball) but as we approached the birds we see it. A WHALE…. Yes!!!! A whale and there were lots of Dolphins and thousands of birds!!! 

YES! FINALLY, we’ve found it, A BAIT BALL! Mark screams, and we all get super excited and jump in the water, now what happened next is indescribable, dolphins, seals, sharks, a whale, and birds all going crazy for the sardines. In the beginning, we just thought it was dolphins and birds and that one whale, but then, we saw the sharks and seals and we were right in the middle of the Bait ball, we had no clue as to where to look at or what to do there was so much action all at once, but we were lucky enough to be there for about 45 minutes. 

Then all of a sudden just like that the birds dissipated and rested on the water and the dolphins started moving away and Voila, it’s over. All I can say is that those 45 minutes were worth all those other days of nothing and bouncing and wind and tiredness and all the complaining we might have done and all the early wake-ups and all that. SO WORTH IT!

I highly recommend it and I am definitely going to organize a group for next year, Who is in? 

Sardine Run 2022 – such an adventure!

 

Do you think you would like to do the sardine run?

Do you know someone who would want to do it with you?

Share this blog with them and contact us on:

[email protected] or via  WhatsApp +27767687708

Top 5 Honeymoon Trips in Africa

Top 5 Honeymoon Trips in Africa

Top 5 Honeymoon Trips in Africa

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For most newlyweds, your honeymoon is the trip of a lifetime. Sure, you may end up taking bigger or wilder trips down the road, probably with your growing family, but the first post-wedding getaway is epic. It allows you time to enjoy each other, to leave all the planning and stress behind you. It sets the tone for the adventures you’ll have in the future together and creates memories that will last for a lifetime.

Whether you’re a lie-on-a-beach-with-a-coconut couple, daring foodies, adventure junkiesglamping, or exploring city-scapes folk, there are incredible places in Africa to help you write the next chapter to your happily-ever-after. I’ve created this perfect list of the Top 5 African Honeymoon Trips to help you create the perfect romantic getaway!

1. Just South Africa

Cape Town Winelands & Safari near Durban, plus a visit to a stunning beach resort on the northeast coast of South Africa. Great for a more budget-friendly Honeymoon, or people that don’t want to cross borders and deal with Covid tests, etc. Perfectly suited for couples looking for some city vibe, contact with nature and wildlife, and great relaxation by the beach.

How does this romantic rendezvous sound?

Romantic strolls in the vineyards anyone?

For more information please contact us via email [email protected] or via  WhatsApp +27767687708

2. South Africa and Mozambique

If you like a bit more upscale vibe, visit Cape Town and the Winelands, followed by a great luxury safari in the Kruger area. Finishing off with a stay in Mozambique for a unique beach experience in some of the most amazing beach resorts.

Would you like to spend some time in the bush & on the beach?

Want to celebrate close to nature?

For more information please contact us via email [email protected] or via  WhatsApp +27767687708

3. East Africa Kenya

There are plenty of combinations here, the possibilities are endless. We could recommend 3 national parks in Kenya, followed by a visit to some of the fantastic beaches on the coast of Kenya (no need to cross borders to Zanzibar).

This would fit you perfectly if you are not interested in visiting a city and just want to immerse yourself in nature and relax by the beach. The best time to book your honeymoon for this would be between June to October to enjoy the migration (just keep in mind this is peak season so High prices).

DOESN’T THIS SOUND INTERESTING?

Would you be interested in joining this adventure?

For more information please contact us via email [email protected] or via  WhatsApp +27767687708

4. East Africa and Zanzibar

Same as before, lots of options. This package would include 6 – 7 nights of safari between Kenya and Tanzania and then 4 -5 nights in a fantastic beach resort, ideal for romance and relaxation, much needed after the safari portion of your adventure. This is a Luxury trip, small plane flights, expensive but worth it. The best time to do it is June – October to enjoy the migration (also peak season so High prices).

Could you do with Safari - seaside & sun?

Would you be interested in joining this African journey?

For more information please contact us via email [email protected] or via  WhatsApp +27767687708

5. Rwanda, Migration, Seychelles

The ultimate luxury trip! Imagine spending time with a family of Silverback gorillas in beautiful Rwanda, then visiting Serengeti for some 5 Star Big Five Safari. Followed by a visit to the Maasai Mara and Ngorongoro. Only to end with a fabulous stay in Seychelles, Now this is Luxury and romance at its best.

How does this adventure sound?

Would you be interested in seeing the migration and the Gorillas?

For more information please contact us via email [email protected] or via  WhatsApp +27767687708

What Our Clients Say

Thank you German for organising an unforgettable trip, your flexibility and the fact that you were on top of everything making sure everything went marvellously, I hope I can come back soon to see more! #GermanKnows

Yessica Flores Camborda
Peruvian

Unfortunately I was not able to travel with German to South America but he did provide the best touring and personalized service in Cape Town. Would highly recommend to anyone, for anywhere, at any time! Thanks an epic trip German!!

Jack Herman
USA

Excellent Organisation, Beyond our expectations! Thank you German!!

Salvador Rodriguez
Peruvian

He organised 10 to 28 friends of mine in Cape Town (#30Peruvians)… they definitely showed them the best of the city, the wine lands and a Safari!… Thank you very much German!

Fico Pastor
Peruvian

They organised our trip to Cape Town and everything was incredible, we did everything and it was all A1 a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Thank you German. Blindfolded the best option to get to know South Africa.
Tera Ascuna
Peruvian
The best way to see and fall in love with Africa! Thank you German for your advice and recommendations!

Vanessa Luna

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