Tent on the Roof: The Call of African Adventure
Niassa wilderness safari 22 days rustique

Tent on the Roof: The Call of African Adventure

Sleep under the stars in a rooftop tent, from Kruger safaris to Indian Ocean beaches.

From€2,780per person
9 years of local expertise5/5 (121 reviews including 121 Google)

Duration

22 days

From

€2,780/pers.

Ideal seasons

May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Style

Self-drive tour

Comfort

rustique

Travelers

Couple, Solo, With friends

The spirit of travel

This circuit invites you to explore varied landscapes, from the reliefs of Mpumalanga to the vast expanses of Kruger Park, before reaching the coasts of Mozambique. You alternate between wildlife observation, bush exploration and more peaceful moments facing the Indian Ocean. Beaches, lagoons and coastal villages punctuate your journey, with water activities, marine encounters and local immersion.

Along the itinerary, you also discover preserved cross-border spaces and end your adventure in Eswatini, in a natural environment conducive to discovery on foot, horseback or by bike.

A complete and balanced trip, designed to offer you a rich experience between adventure, nature, beaches and culture in southern Africa.

The stages of your journey

D1–2
Panorama RouteBlyde Canyon, A Forever Resort
D3–4
Karongwe Private Game ReserveChisomo Safari Camp
D5–6
Central KrugerOlifants Main Camp
D7
Great Limpopo Transfrontier ParkCovane Community Lodge
D8–9
ChizavaneZona Braza Beach Lodge
D10–12
TofoKumba Lodge
D13–16
VilanculosBaobab Beach Lodge & Backpackers
D17–18
Xai XaiBulBul Backpackers
D19
MaputoFigtree Guest House
D20–21
Mlilwane Wildlife SanctuaryMlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary Rest Camp
D22
Départ

Highlights

Big Five Safaris Kruger
Nomadic roof tent
Indian Ocean Beaches
Whale Sharks Tofo
Great Limpopo transfrontalier
Mlilwane Sanctuary Eswatini

Day-by-day itinerary

Jour 1
D1–2

Panorama Route: A scenic road through the heart of Mpumalanga

MaputoPanorama Route

4h35292 km

Connecting the Lowveld to the Drakensberg, between the Kruger National Park and the Highlands Meander, the Panorama Route crosses the Mpumalanga province, offering a succession of varied landscapes.

Throughout this itinerary, you discover rock formations, waterfalls and numerous viewpoints over the surrounding terrain. Hiking trails allow you to explore these spaces and observe local fauna and flora in a preserved natural setting.

The town of Graskop serves as an access point to this route, facilitating the exploration of different sites.

Blyde River Canyon and other emblematic sites

The Blyde River Canyon is among the notable stages. Covered with subtropical vegetation, it offers open panoramas over the gorges and rock formations.

Several sites then line the route:

  • Lisbon, Berlin and Mac Mac Falls

  • Bourke's Luck Potholes

  • The Three Rondavels

  • God's Window, a viewpoint over the surrounding landscapes

Not to be missed The itinerary also allows you to discover:

  • Kruger National Park, known for its safaris

  • Pilgrim's Rest, former gold rush town now preserved

The Panorama Route thus integrates as a stage between nature, landscapes and heritage, at the heart of South Africa.

Blyde Canyon, A Forever Resort
Jour 3
D3–4

Karongwe Reserve: A Wild Sanctuary in the Heart of the Limpopo

Located in Limpopo province, South Africa, the Karongwe private game reserve covers 9,000 hectares and offers a preserved natural environment, characterized by diverse wildlife and open landscapes.

Crossed by four rivers, the reserve benefits from rich ecosystems that promote the presence of a great diversity of animal and bird species, in habitats combining savanna and riverine areas.

Observing the Big Five and unique safaris

Karongwe is recognized for the opportunity to observe the Big Five (elephant, lion, leopard, African buffalo and rhinoceros). Observation conditions are favorable there, particularly for spotting leopards, often elusive in other regions.

Located approximately 45 minutes from the Kruger National Park, the reserve serves as a complementary stop to discover the landscapes and wildlife of this South Africa region.

Experiences at Karongwe

  • Day and night safaris

  • Guided walking safaris

  • Introduction to Bushman techniques

Karongwe thus integrates into an itinerary focused on nature and wildlife observation, with an immersive approach in the heart of the South African savanna.

Chisomo Safari CampLunchDinner
Jour 5
D5–6

Central Kruger: An Immersion in the Heart of South Africa's Largest Reserve

Located in the heart of the Kruger National Park, Central Kruger is part of one of the largest game reserves in South Africa. This region is home to a varied wildlife, with the presence of lions, hyenas, cheetahs, leopards, buffalo, elephants, zebras as well as many birds of prey.

The Olifants River crosses this territory and constitutes a privileged observation point. You can see hippopotamuses, elephants and other mammals coming to drink or cool off there, offering scenes of wild life accessible throughout the day.

Must-do experiences at Central Kruger

  • Guided safaris to observe the park's wildlife

  • Bush walks for a more immersive approach

  • Bird watching for ornithology enthusiasts

  • Night outings to discover wildlife active at night

Heritage and nearby sites

The region is located near the Masorini Archaeological Site, a remnant of the Iron Age that testifies to ancient commercial activities of the Ba-Phalaborwa people.

Other sites accessible from Central Kruger complement the discovery:

  • Mac Mac Falls

  • Pilgrim's Rest, former gold rush town

Central Kruger is thus a rich stopover in observations and discoveries, between wild fauna, landscapes and elements of South African heritage.

Olifants Main Camp
Jour 7
D7

Grand Limpopo Transfrontier Park: A Wildlife Refuge Across Three Countries

Located in southern Africa, the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park is a joint project between South Africa, Mozambique and Zimbabwe. This initiative aims to connect several parks and reserves from these three countries within the same conservation area.

This transboundary park thus forms a vast territory dedicated to the protection of wildlife and ecosystems, promoting the movement of animals beyond national borders.

The Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park represents the first phase of a larger programme, intended to create a transboundary conservation area covering up to 100,000 square kilometres.

You evolve here in an environment composed of vast expanses of African savanna, where wildlife unfolds in open landscapes. This setting allows privileged observation of animals and immersion in preserved nature.

Covane Community LodgeBreakfast
Jour 8
D8–9

Chizavane: A Coastal Paradise North of Maputo

Located a few hours' drive north of Maputo, near Xai-Xai, Chizavane is a beach destination conducive to relaxation, on the coast of Mozambique.

This coastline is characterized by long stretches of golden sand beaches bordered by the waters of the Indian Ocean. Behind them, rolling dunes welcome rustic chalets, offering a simple and pleasant setting for a seaside stay.

Must-do activities in Chizavane

  • Swimming in the ocean

  • Snorkeling on coral reefs

  • Fishing to discover local practices

  • Walks along the coast

After your activities, you can enjoy the seaside atmosphere, with a few cafés where you can taste local specialties, such as peri-peri chicken or grilled seafood.

Chizavane is thus a stopover focused on relaxation and coastal life, in a preserved natural environment of Mozambique.

Zona Braza Beach LodgeBreakfast
Jour 10
D10–12

Tofo Fishing Village

ChizavaneTofo

3h30215 km

Located on the Ponta da Barra peninsula in southeastern Mozambique, Tofo is a fishing village that has opened up to tourism while maintaining a simple and friendly atmosphere.

Its crescent-shaped beach invites swimming and comes alive throughout the day thanks to beach bars, restaurants and a small local market. Nearby, Tofinho beach offers a quieter setting, appreciated for surfing and fly fishing.

Offshore, coral reefs shelter rich marine life. Sea excursions allow you to observe dolphins, manta rays and whale sharks in their natural environment, making Tofo a recognized diving destination.

Must-do activities in Tofo

  • Deep sea fishing

  • Horse riding in the dunes

  • Exploration of surrounding villages

  • Excursion to Inhambane, the neighboring city, to discover local cuisine and enjoy a dhow trip around the port

Between beaches, water activities and local discoveries, Tofo makes for a balanced stop on a Mozambique trip, combining relaxation and exploration.

Kumba LodgeBreakfast
Jour 13
D13–16

Vilanculos: A Coastal Town Between Beaches and Adventure

TofoVilanculos

4h30315 km

Located in Inhambane province, Vilanculos is a bustling coastal town renowned for its magnificent beaches lined with crystal-clear turquoise waters. Offering all the amenities necessary for an unforgettable beach stay, this destination also has its own international airport, facilitating access for travelers.

Vilanculos is the main entry point for discovering the paradisiacal islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago. Visitors can board a traditional dhow and venture to these pristine islands, where dream beaches and coral reefs offer an exceptional spectacle.

The town offers a wide range of activities for all tastes:

  • Scuba diving and snorkeling to explore the coral reefs

  • Kitesurfing and sailing on the calm waters of the Indian Ocean

  • Horseback riding along paradisiacal beaches

  • Game fishing, ideal for thrill-seekers

  • Discovery of the local market, perfect for buying fresh produce and souvenirs

With its varied accommodation, lively nightlife and spectacular natural environment, Vilanculos is an unmissable destination for lovers of the sea and adventure in Mozambique.

Baobab Beach Lodge & BackpackersBreakfast
Jour 17
D17–18

Xai Xai: An ideal stopover on the Mozambican coast

VilanculosXai Xai

7h30490 km

Located on the coast of Mozambique, Xai Xai is the capital of Gaza province and constitutes a practical stopover for travelers heading north in the country. Approximately 12 kilometers from the city center, Xai Xai beach attracts visitors for its accessibility and coastal environment.

This fine sand beach, bordered by clear waters, lends itself to relaxation and water sports. A coral reef runs along the coastline, offering a suitable setting for snorkeling while reducing the impact of Indian Ocean waves.

The surrounding area also allows you to discover several freshwater lakes, conducive to various activities:

  • Kayaking and paddleboarding

  • Windsurfing

  • Bird watching

  • Discovery of the Wenela tidal pool, connected to the ocean by an underwater tunnel

Xai Xai thus fits into an itinerary in Mozambique as a stopover between beach, water sports and discovery of varied natural environments.

BulBul BackpackersBreakfast
Jour 19
D19

Maputo: The Vibrant Capital of Mozambique

ChidengueleMaputo

4h30280 km

Maputo, the capital of Mozambique, stands out for its architecture inherited from the Portuguese colonial period, with a marked presence of Art Deco style. Perched on a hill overlooking Maputo Bay, the city retains traces of its past, when it was nicknamed the "Riviera" of Southern Africa.

Formerly called Lourenço Marques, Maputo is today the largest city in the country and its main port. You will discover a lively urban environment, with a varied range of accommodations, restaurants and shops, as well as an active cultural life. Outdoor cafés contribute to the vibrant atmosphere of the neighborhoods.

Several emblematic places mark your visit:

  • The Baixa district, with its streets lined with jacaranda trees

  • Praça da Independência, the historic center of the city

  • The neoclassical town hall

  • Maputo railway station, recognizable by its bronze dome

Nearby, the coast also allows you to enjoy moments of relaxation and water activities:

  • The beaches of Catembe and Ponta d'Oura

  • Snorkeling and scuba diving in the waters of the Indian Ocean

Maputo is an urban stopover between heritage, local life and access to the coast, to discover different facets of Mozambique.

Figtree Guest HouseBreakfast
Jour 20
D20–21

Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary: A Natural Jewel in the Heart of the "Valley of Heaven"

Located in the Sky Valley, in Eswatini, the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary stretches across a natural environment combining grassy plains, granite hills, waterfalls and varied wildlife.

The southern part of the sanctuary can be explored at your own pace, according to your preferences:

  • On foot, for an immersion close to nature

  • By mountain bike, to travel the trails dynamically

  • On horseback, for a different approach to wildlife

  • By vehicle, to explore a larger part of the site

Access to the more isolated northern half is only possible during guided group hikes, offering a structured discovery of this more preserved area.

Nearby, the towns of Malkerns and Ezulwini allow you to extend your visit with their craft shops and local activities.

On site, you can stay in traditional hive-shaped cabins and enjoy breakfast overlooking the water, where hippopotamuses and crocodiles can be observed.

Mlilwane thus fits into an itinerary in Eswatini as a stop focused on nature, observation and outdoor experiences.

Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary Rest CampBreakfast
Jour 22
D22

See you soon in Mozambique!

Return to the airport where you return your rental vehicle, marking the end of your trip. You then complete the check-in procedures for your return flight.

Breakfast

Price per person

2 pers.€2,780/pers.

Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.

This trip can be tailored to your preferences

This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.

Not included

  • International flights
  • International and domestic airport taxes
  • Meals not mentioned in the table above
  • The drinks
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips
  • All necessary insurance for your trip to the country

Included

  • Travel documents
  • The accommodations mentioned
  • Meals and drinks mentioned
  • Karongwe Game Reserve: dawn and dusk safaris in an open vehicle - 2 per day for a total of 4
  • per person
  • The ocean safari to meet the whale shark while snorkeling
  • The rental of a Toyota Hilux vehicle (4x4) or similar with roof tent, standard insurance with unlimited mileage, two drivers per vehicle
  • 1 roof tent per vehicle with equipped bedding
  • Kitchen equipment, water tank and gas bottle
  • 24/7 Problem Assistance
  • Vehicle replacement in case of problems (if applicable)
  • Local and tourism taxes
  • The sponsorship of a child for their monthly expenses within the Association A CASA AMARELA MOZAMBIQUE

Practical Information

Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.

The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.

See our specific terms of sale for full details.

In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:

  • Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
  • Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
  • Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total

We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.

The information below concerns travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, and Canada traveling to Mozambique for tourism purposes. Entry rules may change, so we recommend verifying information with official authorities before your departure.

Passport

To enter Mozambique, your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the date of entry into the country and contain at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn, or altered pages).

Visa

Nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland, and Canada must generally be in possession of a visa to enter Mozambique. Several options are available:

  • the visa on arrival, available at certain official entry points (international airports and main land border crossings), for stays generally up to 30 days,

  • the electronic visa (e-visa), to be requested online before departure through the official portal of the Mozambican authorities, for stays of up to 30 days, renewable once on arrival.

It is recommended that you obtain your visa before departure to avoid any complications upon arrival. Processing times and conditions may vary; contact the embassy or consulate of Mozambique in your country of residence for further information.

Authorities may also request:

  • a departure ticket from the territory (return flight or onward journey),

  • proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay,

  • a hotel reservation.

Health and Vaccinations

Certain health precautions are strongly recommended before traveling to Mozambique:

  • The international certificate of vaccination against yellow fever is mandatory for travelers coming from a country where this disease is endemic. It may also be required from any traveler upon entry to the country.

  • Antimalarial prophylaxis is strongly recommended, as malaria is present throughout Mozambican territory. Consult a doctor or international vaccination center before your departure.

  • Up-to-date vaccinations against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and tetanus are also advised.

We recommend consulting a healthcare professional or travel medicine center several weeks before your departure.

Travel with Children

Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.

Mozambique may require minors traveling alone or with only one parent to present a birth certificate and written parental authorization signed by the absent parent(s), preferably legalized. It is strongly advised to contact the Mozambican embassy before your departure.

Other Nationalities

Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Travelers concerned should contact the embassy or consulate of Mozambique in their country of residence.

To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to have evacuation assistance and foreign medical expense coverage.

Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partners CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To purchase insurance, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.

CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!

Choose the plan that suits you best:

  • Explorer'Multirisque

  • Explorer'Annulation

  • Explorer'Assistance

  • Explorer'Complémentaire Carte Bancaire

Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to one.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy outlining all coverage and claim reporting procedures is available on the insurer's website.

Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with claim reporting procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.

Chapka — Cap Explorer

Our insurance partner

Travel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.

Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insurance

Frequently asked questions

An e-visa or Visa on Arrival is required. The e-visa must be requested online before departure. A valid passport, required to be valid for at least 6 months after entry with at least two blank pages. Before booking, check with the consular authorities of your destination for entry requirements applicable to your nationality.

Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.

You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.

For a tailor-made quality trip, budget between 200 and 340 euros per day and per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transfers and activities. International flights (900-1300 euros return) are additional. Bazaruto and Quirimbas islands are premium destinations.

Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.

Absolutely. We adapt each itinerary to match your travel profile. For families, we prioritize relaxed pacing, family-friendly accommodations, engaging and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our English-speaking local guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate stories.

It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, your budget and your dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. Together you adjust every detail until you have the perfect version. You confirm and set off with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.

In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.

Payment is generally made in two installments.

Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on site throughout your stay.

Clara, Creator of meaningful journeys in Mozambique
9years of expertise

Let's talk about your adventure — Inhambane

Creator of meaningful journeys in Mozambique, based in Maputo

Mozambique touches me with its light, its hospitality and its simplicity. My role is to create journeys that respect this beauty, without turning it into a backdrop.

Clara

APST Guarantee Secure Payment 24/7 Assistance5/5