Breathtaking scenery, incredible wildlife, heaps of activities and stunning beaches - perfect for making lifetime memories for the entire family!

A perfectly balanced 15 day family journey combining South Africa’s dramatic landscapes and world-famous Big 5 safari experiences with Mozambique’s sun-drenched beaches and laid-back island escape. From the sweeping views of the Blyde River Canyon and thrilling wildlife encounters in the Kruger region to barefoot luxury on the shores of Bazaruto Island, this itinerary blends adventure and relaxation into an unforgettable bush-to-beach family escape.

 

2 Nights Panorama Region – 3 Nights Kruger – 3 Nights Vilanculos – 4 Nights Bazaruto Island

A team of real experts, brilliant at designing bespoke holidays.

Call 01273 923100 to start planning your South Africa holiday today.

Miles
"I’ve been travelling since my first solo trip at nineteen, exploring everything from Indonesia and Japan to Iceland and Tanzania. I believe the best holidays come from really understanding a place and shaping each trip with care and first-hand knowledge."
Miles, Sales Manager
baby elephants facing eachother with their trunks entwined against a green grassy backdrop.

Exploring the Panorama Region

Discover breathtaking views of Blyde River Canyon and visit Elephant Whispers for a memorable elephant encounter.

cub and a female lion snuggling amongst dry brown grass in South Africa

Big 5 safari in Kruger

Experience thrilling game drives and bush walks, where you can spot the majestic Big Five in their natural habitat.

Overhanging palm trees on a deserted pristine white sand beach

Relaxing in Vilanculos

Unwind at Casa Rex, enjoy stunning ocean views, and indulge in delicious cuisine while exploring the beautiful beaches.

Tranquil beach scene at sunrise with palm trees, straw umbrellas, and lounge chairs on white sand. Calm sea stretches to the horizon under a clear sky.

Island adventures on Bazaruto

Enjoy a range of activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving, and dune boarding in the stunning Bazaruto Archipelago.

a table with plate with lobster and salad, beer and a glass of wine

Culinary experiences

Participate in cooking classes and savour local delicacies while enjoying the beautiful landscapes of Mozambique.

We had an amazing family holiday in South Africa and Mozambique thanks to the team at Sundowner. Each stop felt different and special, and the whole trip came together beautifully. We’ll be booking again.

The McGrath Family, South Africa & Mozambique

It was an amazing trip from start to finish with so many highlights along the way, thank you so much for looking after us with the itinerary you produced and the accommodation along the way, there wasn’t a thing we would change

Aaron Harper, South Africa

This was our first trip with Sundowner and we were really impressed. Mozambique isn’t the easiest place to plan independently, but everything ran smoothly and we loved the laid-back rhythm of the whole trip.

Claire Colley, Mozambique

We have just arrived back after the most incredible road trip around South Africa. Jo organised everything perfectly for us, we didn't want to come home. We would even go to say it was our best ever holiday and we have been to some lovely destinations.

Cheryl Short, South Africa
Read more reviews on Trustpilot

Tour itinerary

Days 1 & 2:

Arrive in South Africa and head to the Panorama Region

Fly overnight from the UK to Johannesburg.

Upon arrival you will connect with a short flight to KMIA Kruger Airport, where you will collect your hire car and begin your South African adventure. A scenic drive of just over an hour brings you to Rissington Inn, a charming owner-run country retreat set amongst beautiful tropical gardens on the edge of the Panorama Region.

Known for its warm hospitality, relaxed atmosphere and excellent food, spend 2 nights here, allowing time to unwind after your journey and start exploring this stunning region.

Call 01273 923100 to start planning your holiday

Aerial view of the large inviting swimming pool and gardens at the Rissington Inn.
Day 3:

Waterfalls, Viewpoints and Canyon Vistas

Families staying at Rissington Inn are perfectly placed to explore the many attractions of the Panorama Region. Spend a day discovering the spectacular viewpoints of the Blyde River Canyon, including God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes and the iconic Three Rondavels, whilst scenic drives reveal waterfalls, forests and dramatic mountain landscapes at every turn.

Active families can enjoy gentle hiking trails, horse riding, mountain biking and river rafting, whilst younger travellers will love visiting local reptile parks and wildlife centres. The nearby town of Hazyview also offers canopy tours through the forest, quad biking adventures and family-friendly nature experiences, making this an excellent base for combining relaxation with outdoor adventure before continuing your journey into the Greater Kruger. Ask us for more help planning your time.

A solitary person stands on a rocky ledge with arms raised, overlooking a vast, misty mountain landscape with layered ridges and a winding river below in soft, golden light.
Days 4 to 6:

Into the wilderness of the Sabi Sands

Today drive into the renowned Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve, one of Africa’s most celebrated safari destinations, famous for its exceptional wildlife viewing and particularly renowned for some of the best leopard sightings on the continent.

You will spend the next 3 nights at Nottens Bush Camp, a much-loved family-owned safari lodge that has been welcoming guests to the bush for generations. Offering a traditional safari atmosphere with warm hospitality and personalised service, Nottens combines understated comfort with an authentic connection to the surrounding wilderness.

Your days will revolve around the rhythm of the African bush, with early morning and late afternoon game drives led by expert rangers and trackers. The Sabi Sands is renowned for close-up wildlife encounters, giving you an excellent chance of seeing the Big Five alongside cheetah, giraffe, zebra, hyena and a huge variety of birdlife.

White rhinoceros grazing with oxpeckers on his back, young lion in background, Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa
Days 7 to 9:

From the African bush to the beaches of Mozambique

Drive back to KMIA Kruger Airport for your short flight to Vilanculos, Mozambique, transferring to Bahia Mar Boutique Hotel, where you will spend the next 3 nights overlooking the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Spacious family-friendly accommodation, beautiful gardens, a swimming pool and direct access to the beach make it an excellent choice for families looking to unwind after the excitement of safari.

Over the next two days, there is plenty of time to enjoy everything Vilanculos has to offer. Families can relax on the beach, swim in the warm Indian Ocean or take a traditional dhow cruise across the bay. Boat excursions to the pristine islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago offer opportunities for snorkelling amongst colourful tropical fish, exploring deserted sandbanks and discovering one of Africa’s most beautiful marine environments. Horse riding along the beach, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are also popular activities, whilst younger travellers will love the freedom of the wide sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.

aerial view of a beach resort located in greenery but right on the beach a walking distance to the ocean
Days 10 to 13:

Bazaruto Island – barefoot luxury & ocean adventures

This morning you will be taken to the jetty, where you will then board a boat across turquoise waters to Bazaruto Island and check into Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort where you will stay in a two-bedroom Villa for 4 nights with breakfast included. Experience the epitome of luxury in an exclusive private island retreat where you are surrounded by pristine beaches and crystal clear sea.

You will now have 3 days to enjoy this beautiful part of the world. Snorkel vibrant reefs, explore sand dunes, go horse riding on the beach or learn to cook local dishes with the kids. They could even head to the Children’s Club where they can take part in a diverse outdoors programme. Or do absolutely nothing — the choice is yours. This is family beach time at its finest, with every detail taken care of.

 

An aerial view shows a long, curved stretch of sandy coastline bordered by clear turquoise water with darker patches of reef or sea grass beneath the surface at the Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort
Days 14 & 15:

Final Morning in Mozambique and then time to head home

Wake up to your final morning in Mozambique at Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort, with time to enjoy a relaxed breakfast, a last swim, or a quiet walk along the beach as you take in the beauty of the Bazaruto Archipelago one last time.

You will then take your boat transfer back to Vilanculos for your onward flight via Johannesburg and your international journey home.

Tranquil beach scene at sunrise with palm trees, straw umbrellas, and lounge chairs on white sand. Calm sea stretches to the horizon under a clear sky.
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Talk to us about your perfect trip to South Africa

Call 01273 923100 to start planning your South Africa Holiday today.

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