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The ultimate East African surf getaway, warm water, consistent Sandy bottom breaks and some amazing time to head of you on this superb surfing trip. Beginner or advanced this will be a surfing trip you will never forget.
Ever dreamed of watching an iconic African sunset from the beach? How about spending your days surfing and diving in the Indian Ocean and your nights enjoying a cool beer or cocktail in a hammock on the beach?
The ultimate surfing trip in Mozambique, on the exotic south east coast of Africa. Facing the enormous Indian Ocean, and surrounded by beautiful grassy san dunes and miles of stunning beaches, the small town of Tofo has quickly become a popular surfing and backpacking hotspot, with adventurous travelers from all over the world eager to test the waves and explore the local culture in this unique and fascinating destination.
The laid back atmosphere, exotic and remote location, stunning beaches, amazing diving spots and lots of great restaurants, bars and accommodation have propelled Tofo to fame among travelers looking to get off the beaten path and try something different.
Of course surfing and diving are the main attractions in Tofo, with both sports enjoyed to a world-class standard. Advanced and beginner surfers will love the chance to experience another side to Africa through Mozambique’s up-and-coming surfing culture.
Tofo beach is great for beginners and intermediates, as the waves are gentle, consistent and clean. Long-boarders will also love this beach for its perfect breaks, while the nearby and smaller beaches of Tofinho Point and Dragons Point are excellent for advanced surfers with exhilarating long rides possible in the right conditions. The water is warm, at around 24 degrees Celsius, making it ideal for year round surfing, however the best times to go are during the peak season of May to August.
With top-class instructors, equipment and companies catering to the growing number of surfing enthusiasts visiting this hidden gem on the southeast coast of Mozambique, the tourism in the area has also boomed. Restaurants, great accommodation and lots of entertaining other activities besides surfing and diving have popped up all around the area making this a wonderfully well-rounded adventure experience. So, if you get too tired from all that surfing and diving, you’ll be happy to hear you can enjoy some relaxing horse-back riding across the stunning sand dunes or unwind with some yoga lessons in a beautiful yoga temple; some very bucket-list worthy experiences!
So whether you’re a surfing pro, or you’ve always dreamed of learning to ride the waves, Tofo is an excellent place for both advanced and beginner surfers to enjoy the sport surrounded by an incredibly interesting, rich and friendly culture. Don’t just go on a surfing holiday; discover a whole new country, its captivating culture and its beautiful people at the same time.
This adventurous new tour offers travelers the chance to live in an authentic, small African surf town with a great laid-back vibe, for a total of six nights.
Your trip will be jam packed with fun activities, but each day will focus on surfing. In the mornings, you’ll spend time out on the waves learning the sport with some of the best surf instructors on the coast. These daily surfing lessons will take you through the morning until afternoon, when you can head for lunch in one of the many nearby restaurants along the beach. One of the great things about this tour is that you have a lot of freedom to choose how you want to spend your time. Apart from your daily surf lessons, the rest of the days’ adventures are up to you and your new surfing buddies. So you can choose to chow down on some freshly caught sea fish at a local restaurant, sip on a tropical fruit cocktail while watching the waves crash on the shore, or take that lovely horseback ride over the dunes. If you’re really keen however, you can always rent a surfboard from one of the many local suppliers and head back out to the surf after lunch. Why not grab a group of new friends and go for a surf at sunset?
The nearby, larger town of Inhambane is just a short drive from Tofo and provides a larger selection of shops, restaurants, services and, of course, nightlife, so you are never too far away from a change of scene and pace during your stay.
However you choose to spend your days, they will surely be relaxing and rewarding. One thing that many travelers love to do is to meet the local people and learn about their culture and way of life. Local vendors love talking to visiting foreigners, while other backpackers are always looking to make new friends so you’ll never feel alone or bored, even if you travel by yourself.
Whatever way you choose to spend your afternoons and evenings during your weeklong surfing adventure in Mozambique, you’ll wish you never have to leave your beautiful bohemian abode.
During your 7 days and 6 nights in Tofo, you will be hosted in the Turtle Cove Lodge, a beautiful, avant-garde and spacious lodge with large double, twin and dorms. Set among exotic gardens, the building blends perfectly into nature, providing a relaxing and eco-friendly home-away-from-home for your trip.
There is also an adjoining restaurant and bar serving a delicious selection of fresh prawns and fish, and sometimes even sushi! With live music, lots of surf chat and a great selection of food and drink, the Turtle Cove bar and restaurant is a great spot for mingling with fellow travelers and unwinding for the night.
Some of the freshest most amazing fish is just waiting for you on the barbecues!
Six nights:
You can join this programme any time all year round. Please contact us with your preferred dates.
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]]>Train as a professional Divemaster in one of East Africa’s most beautiful beach front settings, with the Indian Ocean providing the backdrop for an incredible couple of months living the life diving with manta rays, humpback whales and whale sharks everyday! Tofo, has one of the highest populations of juvenile whale sharks in the world so is a great place to do some whale shark diving.
Africa is often overlooked as a place to do your Divemaster course and regrettably so because in Tofo you have some of the best diving in the world. The biggest draw is undoubtedly the whale shark and the worlds highest population of juvenile whale sharks can be found here. It is the biggest fish in the ocean and can grow to 12 m or more and weigh up to 15 tons! But there is so much more too..
There is no set itinerary for this trip but during the Divemaster programme you will be trained from PADI Open Water level to professional Divemaster. However, as a Divemaster you need to progress through different PADI training courses starting with your Open Water. This is the basic intro to scuba-diving, after this you do your Advanced Open Water (this consists of five specialist dives) and then you do your Rescue Diver course. The Rescue Diver course teaches you about diver safety, trains you to effectively rescue distressed divers, trains you how to provide CPR and first aid and administer oxygen in case of emergencies.At this point this is the last recreational level dive qualification before you go on to do your Divemaster course.
Once you start your Divemaster internship, you will be getting into the nitty-gritty of what it takes to become a professional diver. There is no day-to-day minute by minute itinerary for this section of the course, there are certain criteria that you need to fill for example a minimum number of dives (60), you will assist dive instructors on their courses, and you will take customers out for dives acting as a dive leader, providing them with pre-dive safety briefings, helping out at the dive school and dive centre. You do all this while following the PADI training syllabus that the Divemaster course requires you to complete.
The real beauty about doing your Divemaster course is that you get to dive a lot
This is no understatement, when you consider how expensive recreational diving can actually be, you get to dive every day, in some of the most exciting underwater environments in Africa, if not the world, and you will spend months doing this in unlimited amounts, you start to see why it is such an appealing way to spend several months, and great value too!
Enjoy everything that Tofo has to offer
During your time when you are not in the water, you assist at the dive school, completing an internship learning all about working in the dive industry or just chill out and enjoy everything that Tofo has to offer. It certainly has that by the bucket load, relaxation and chilled out vibes.
When not relaxing in a hammock under a palm tree, you will go out on ocean safaris (with snorkel gear) to swim with whale sharks, and humpback whales (in season). There is the most amazing sandy beach with good surfing opportunities, ocean kayaking and horse riding too.
You might just prefer to enjoy the buzz of the backpacker lifestyle in the town, because this is quite a popular destination for backpackers (although not your typically ruined overpopulated backpacker hangout). The locals are exceptionally friendly, the cost of living there is incredibly cheap and you are going to absolutely love the lifestyle.
Dedicated Dive Instructor
You will discuss your loose itinerary with your dedicated dive instructor on arrival, and you will also be given a full briefing on what the course involves. At the end of the course you need to pass several exams (about eight of them), but these are incredibly simple providing you follow your course work!
Upon successful sign off on completion of the course, once you have paid your PADI membership fee, (direct to PADI about £80) you will be a professional Divemaster, able to work in any dive resort in the world, and earn a living in one of the most easy-going lifestyles out there. You will get your dive certificate and membership card in the post.
There are three different options for accommodation each very in cost and comfort. All rooms are en-suite and consist of double or twin beds, mosquito nets, bed linen.
Please take own shower and beach towels as these are not supplied. The rooms are serviced by municipal power and each has 3-point 220V power point with 2-point adapters. Rooms are serviced daily upon request.
Standard accommodation is in a shared dorm. These are comfortable clean rooms shared with other people. Bedlinen is included and there are mosquito nets.
The comfort rooms are similar to the standard accommodation option, but include hot water showers as well. Please bear in mind though when selecting your accommodation that it is always hot in Mozambique so cold showers are very welcome and you do not need hot showers. Still if you want that option is available.
The basic accommodation is in the form of a rustic African grass hut, the hut is ensuite and cosy but be under no illusions it is very basic. If budget is very tight let us know and we can quote you for this pending availability.
The hut is located in the grounds of the accommodation and quite quaint, But please note this is not particularly secure, as there is no lock on the room. If you want something a little bit more comfortable or luxurious then we recommend you do not pick this option. Not that we want to put you off, it is quite a nice experience staying in it and it is definitely part of the adventure of spending your gap year in Africa but we are well aware this would not suit everyone.
The main benefit of opting for this accommodation besides the sense of adventure it brings is this reduces the cost of the course to be one of the best value divemaster courses in the world.
During your Divemaster training you will discover a mix of hard and soft corals and abundant marine life from sharks to turtles to dolphins to whale sharks and thousands of fish. The sites vary in depth , there is little current and the water temperature is always warm, ranging from about 27C to 32C offering amazing conditions to dive everyday on your Divemaster course!
Whale sharks, long stretches of beach and a lot of diving, this is what you can expect on the PADI Divemaster course in Mozambique. We can train you from zero to hero in 12 weeks, meaning that you can join even if you have no prior diving experience. If you do already have dive certificates we can alter the programme for you, no problem just ask us for prices.
Whale sharks are the most magnificent and biggest fish in the sea and they only eat plankton. They do not even have teeth. Once you spot them you will fall in love. They are gracious and beautiful, and the great thing is they love the bubbles divers make so tend to come up to you. Because their eyes are so small you have to watch it that they do not bump in to you.
The population of juvenile whale sharks in Mozambique is at the moment higher than anywhere else which means that you will likely bump in to one pretty frequently, and don’t forget you will be doing the Divemaster in one of the top dive schools with experts trained in tracking and finding whale sharks. No need to be afraid!
Being a Divemaster means you can work in the dive industry and make money with once of the best jobs in the world. You will be able to guide dives, do scuba reviews and help out in dive shops. The PADI Divemaster certificate is internationally recognised so you can work as a Divemaster anywhere in the world. As a Divemaster the dive boat, where you soak up the sun and have your morning coffee, and the sea, where you meet the corals and the fish, are your office. You will always be surrounded by happy people who are on holiday.
In Africa you can see the big 5 on safari’s but in Mozambique you can Dive The Big Five.
The big five of the underwater world are:
Tofu in Mozambique is where the Xtreme Gap Divemaster course takes place. Tofu is definitely one of Southern Africa’s favourite diving destinations. Even National Geographic votes Tofu in Mozambique the prime diving location for spotting whale sharks and Manta rays. Xtreme Gap works with a PADI certified diving school that has already taken on many many divers.
If you opt for the standard accommodation (the grass hut) there is no plug point in the hut. You are able to charge your electronics at the restaurant and the dive schoolplease bring an adapter suitable for South African plugs which are three pins and round you will also want Mozambique and plugs which are to pin
12 weeks
And a lot of FUN!!
We also advise you to buy your own wetsuit, mask and fins, although they are included in the cost of the course on a rental basis, when you do your Divemaster it’s definitely nice to have your own. We also recommend you purchase the dive computer before you travel, check out our Divemaster blog for advice on buying a dive computer and everything you need to know about the courses.
Start date of the first Monday of every month, we can be flexible start date if you have different travel plans.
“Swimming with a Whaleshark was one of the best experiences of my life”Gemma Roberts
“Tofo what a great choice to do my divemaster, thanks guys for arranging everything.”Simon Hill
“On my first deep dive I felt a tap on my shoulder, and someone pointed to my right. I turned my head, and from the distance saw a huge manta ray emerge. It was easily the size of a car, with a massive fin span, and a lonnng tail. I widened my eyes and really couldn’t believe what I was seeing. It felt like I was watching Animal Planet, except it was actually happening.”Matt
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]]>The ultimate Africa overland truck tour. Some opportunities in life only come round once. This is one of those. Your opportunity to discover Africa over 56 days driving across half of the continent seeing all of the major national parks, visiting tribes seeing the wildlife and having an amazing adventure with a fellow group of intrepid adventurers. Fully guided all transport accommodation and meals are taken care of, if you book with the activity pack there is very little else you need to spend your money on other than flights and visas. If you want to see Africa in all its glory once-in-a-lifetime you need to book this trip.
We call this the Ultimate Africa Trip for good reason, it will be the adventure of your life. You will be visiting South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda. You will follow in the footsteps of some of the greatest explorers. Guided by driver guides in adventure vehicles you will be taken to some of the most remote and stunning places in Africa. Expect to see plenty of wildlife in the game parks of East and South Africa, marvel at incredible landscapes, interact with different African Tribes, from Maasai to San Bushmen, explore deserts, deltas, jungles, mountains and incredible beaches.
Read more about these destinations in our country info section.
If you want to read more about the highlights click the button below. We have extensive write ups on our blog. See these in detail
The activity pack is a bolt on pack including what we consider to be the must to do activities on the trip. You do not have to purchase this at the time of booking, and all activities can be purchased locally as well, although this way you get to pre-book all of your activities and not have to worry about carrying a lot of cash on you throughout the journey.
If you want to read more about the optinal activity pack click the button below. We have extensive write ups on our blog. See these in detail
After a short stop to view Table Mountain we drive north to the Cederberg region. In the afternoon (weather permitting) we go on a guided walk to see Bushmen paintings and learn about the native fauna and flora. Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Today we travel to the Gariep/Orange River. We spend the night under the stars and sit at the campfire getting to know each another. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
You can choose between a morning on the riverbank or the half day canoe on the river. After lunch we travel north to the Fish River Canyon. Optional Activities: Orange/Gariep River Half Day Canoe Adventure. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
From the Fish River Canyon we continue into the remote hinterland. We arrive at camp in the afternoon and enjoy a short hike at Sesriem Canyon. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We wake before dawn so we can hike up Dune 45 and watch the sunrise. After breakfast we join a local expert on a guided tour explaining the desert ecosystem. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we cross the Tropic of Capricorn (where we stop for a photo) on our way to Namibia’s Atlantic coast. In Swakopmund you will be briefed on the optional activities available here. Day 7 is free for you to explore the town or try one of the many adventure activities. Optional Activities: Quadbiking, Sandboarding, Sky Diving, Dolphin Cruise, Scenic Flights, Fishing etc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Dinner on day 7 only)
We leave all the trappings of modern life behind us and drive inland to the mysterious Spitzkoppe. Tonight we camp in the wild. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Some early morning exploration we continue inland and drive towards Kamanjab. The Himba are a pastoral people and predominantly breed cattle or goats, they are easily recognisable by their unique style of dress. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Etosha NP is the venue for some of the most unique game viewing experiences in Africa. We will go on various game drives, and spend our evenings at the abundant water holes for some excellent game photography. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After an early morning game drive we set off towards Windhoek in the centre of Namibia. On the way we stop at a popular craft market. In the afternoon we go on a short city tour. Optional Activities: Dinner out at Joe’s Beer House. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
It is a scenic drive to the Buitepos border, where we cross into Botswana. Once at camp we will meet with a local Bushmen community and experience some traditional Tribal Dancing. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Our journey takes us from Ghanzi towards Maun. Maun is the gateway to the Okavango Delta and this afternoon we will prepare for this excursion, packing small 2-night bags. There may be an opportunity this afternoon to visit the local crocodile farm or take a scenic flight over the Okavango Delta. Optional Activities: Scenic Flight (time permitting). Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning we board the big 4×4 truck that will take us in to the Delta. In high-water season it is sometimes necessary to take a boat to the poling station where we meet up with the members of a local community who will be showing us their homeland. We spend 2 nights bush camping in the wilderness and, if the water level allows, we will take a mokoro (traditional canoe) trip through the waterways. We will also be going on some nature walks in the hope of seeing some wild animals in their natural habitat. Please note: If you have not purchased the Activity Package you will stay at the campsite in Maun for the following 2 nights.
Day 15 (Day 1 in Delta). Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Activity package: 4 x 4 vehicle transfer into Okavango Delta, Mokoro ride and guided nature walk
Day 16 (Day 2 in Delta). Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Activity package: Guided Nature walk and mokoro rides
We leave the Delta behind us and travel east towards the town of Nata. The shady tree canopy surrounding the campsite is a hive of activity, with a bird feeding area and active water feature providing the bird watcher with the opportunity of viewing a variety of species from the comfort of the pool deck. The Helmeted Guineafowl, Crested Francolin, Yellow Hornbill, Pied and Arrowmarked Babblers, Glossy Starling, Meyers Parrot and Paradise Whydah are just some of the species you may encounter during your stay at the lodge. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We travel to Chobe and this afternoon we enjoy a sunset river cruise as the animals are best spotted from the Chobe River. Elephants, Hippo, Crocodiles, Eland and many other creatures reside in Chobe so keep your cameras ready. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Activity package: Sunset Boat Cruise in the Chobe NP
On arrival in Victoria Falls town, we have time to plan the next day’s adventure activities before we visit the spectacular Victoria Falls and experience the thundering of the mighty Zambezi. An optional dinner out is a friendly way to spend the evening with all the new friends you’ve made along the way. Optional Activities: Chobe morning game drive, Zambezi Sunset Cruise. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch. Activity package: Entrance to Victoria Falls National Park
Most people will spend the day White Water Rafting, a not-to-be-missed experience of a lifetime! Vic Falls offers many exciting alternatives such as a walk with lions or a bungee jump from the bridge that joins Zimbabwe with Zambia. Optional Activities: Full day white water rafting, Flight over the falls, Full day low/high water river boarding, sunset cruise, bungee jump (solo), morning/afternoon lion or elephant encounter. Meals: Breakfast
Leaving behind the natural wonder of Victoria Falls we begin our expedition. After Livingstone we journey towards the bustling Zambian capital of Lusaka. You will notice the vegetation becoming sub-tropical and the roads a little rougher. Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Today is a long drive through lush country, crossing rivers en-route to Chipata, the gateway to the South Luangwa NP. Zambia is truly African and an adjustment from the more Western ways of Southern Africa. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Early in the morning we drive from Chipata to the border of the South Luangwa National Park where we spend the next two nights right on the banks of the Luangwa River. You can often see hippos and other animals from the camp bar. This afternoon we enjoy a sunset game drive in the South Luangwa NP.Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Activity package: Sunset Game Drive in South Luangwa NP
In the morning you have the opportunity to take another game drive. The park is known for its high concentration of leopards and hippos. After lunch we visit the community run tribal textile project and a local village. Optional Activities: Morning Game Drive, Game Walk inside park. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Activity package: Village and textile visit
Today we depart the South Luangwa National Park and head towards the bustling city of Lilongwe. En route, we will stop at a local market to experience the culture and way of live of the Malawian people. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Included Highlights: Visit a local market
This morning we have the opportunity to participate in a 2 hour city tour, before we take a scenic drive to Kande beach. We will spend the next 2 days enjoying the many optional activities available, such as horse riding and different water sports. We will go on a guided village walk in order to meet the local people and learn more about Malawian life. Optional Activities: Lilongwe city tour, Scuba diving, snorkeling etc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Activity Package: Guided village tour
We travel further north and spend our last day in Malawi at Chitimba beach. Set on a golden sandy beach amongst banana palms and papaya trees, our accommodation for the night is surrounded by the famous Livingstonia and Nyika mountains. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Today we leave Malawi and enter Tanzania. We ascend out of the Great Rift Valley through some spectacular mountain passes, passing vast tea plantations in the highlands before arriving at our camp outside Iringa. This evening our dinner is in a local Masai restaurant where we enjoy a traditional Tanzanian evening. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Included Highlights: Dinner in a local Maasai restaurant
We leave Iringa today and head north to the Mikumi National Park. Mikumi is home to lion, zebra, wildebeest, impala, buffalo and elephant. Here we have the opportunity to enjoy an optional afternoon game drive through the park. Optional Activity: Afternoon game drive in Mikumi NP. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Our journey today brings us out of the cool highland region to the humid Indian ocean coastal city of Dar es Salaam. Meaning ‘house of peace’ in Arabic, Dar es Salaam is the economic and trade capital of Tanzania, but inland Dodoma remains the official capital city. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A local ferry will take us from Dar es Salaam (where we leave the truck) to Zanzibar. We take a transfer to the northern part of the island where we will spend our time relaxing on the beach. On the 3rd day, we head south to Stone Town, the capital of Zanzibar, where we will spend the night. Here we have time exploring the historical and unique architecture. There are also spice and seafood markets to be explored. Optional Activities: Lunch and Dinner, Motorbike hire, Spice tour, Walking city tour, Swimming with Dolphins, Scuba Diving, Snorkelling etc. Please note: If you have not purchased the Activity Package you will stay at the campsite in Dar es Salaam for the following 3nights.
Day 33/34. Meals: Breakfast. Day 35. Meals: Breakfast. Activity Package (Day 33-35): Zanzibar Excursion
Today we leave Zanzibar and catch a ferry back to Dar es Salaam and return to our truck. We continue on to Lushoto, the major town and district centre, albeit small, in the Usambara Mountains, halfway between the coast and the parks. The popular pot plant Saintpaulia has its only wild occurrences in Tanzania, and particularly in the Usambara Mountains. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
The city of Arusha is surrounded by some of Africa’s most famous landscapes and national parks. Situated below Mount Meru on the eastern edge of the eastern branch of the Great Rift Valley, the city is close to Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, Olduvai Gorge, Tarangire National Park, and Mount Kilimanjaro and The Arusha National Park. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
These 4 days are set aside for the 3-night camping excursion into the Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater. This area has one of the most densely inhabited large animal populations in Africa. On the first day from Arusha to Ngorongoro, there will be time for visiting the Oldupai gorge and museum.
The Serengeti excursion is in open topped 4×4 safari vehicles in order to tackle the challenging side roads in the parks. For those not going to the parks, take this chance to absorb some of the fascinating local culture. Optional Activities for those not doing the Serengeti Excursion: Various Serengeti & Ngorongoro Excursion packages, Lake Manyara game drives, day hiking & village tours and many more various day trips. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Optional Activity: Serengeti Camping Excursion
Today the group meets up again and we have the chance to exchange stories of the various adventures that we participated in over the past few days. In the afternoon we visit the local Masai Mara Museum and Snake Park in Arusha. Optional Activity: camel ride to local Masaai village. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Activity package: Masai Mara Museum
After crossing the border into Kenya we continue to travel towards Nairobi and the end of our journey. Usually we end the day with a group meal out at one of Nairobi’s excellent restaurants. Optional Activity: Dinner out. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
We leave the capital and travel to the Masai Mara National Reserve. Today the tour enters this huge area of spectacular game viewing to photograph some of Africa’s most abundant wildlife. Famous for the annual migration of around 1.5 million wildebeest, the Masai Mara is also home to many other animals, including lions. Cultural interaction with Kenya’s native Masaai people completes our experience. *The Masai Mara Reserve excursion & game drive will be operated in safari type vehicles. Meals: Lunch, Dinner. Activity Package: Kenyan Parks Highlights Excursion (Day 1 -3)
After an early morning game drive in the Mara, we depart towards Lake Naivasha for a relaxing day on the lakeshore. You can go hiking in the area and activities include game and bird watching. One of the more popular optional activities is to go game viewing from a bicycle. An alternative way to spend your afternoon is to take high tea at Elsamere, the former home of Joy Adamsson, best known for her autobiographical novel, Born Free. Optional Activities: Cycle hire, High Tea at Elsamere. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we will travel north to Lake Nakuru where we will spend the afternoon game driving. Originally created as a bird sanctuary, Lake Nakuru was upgraded to National Park status in 1968. White rhino inhabit the transitional savannah area surrounding the lake, with excellent photographic opportunities. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Included Activities: Hells Gate National Park, Game drive in Lake Nakuru NP
Leaving Lake Nakuru very early, we head towards Uganda, briefly stopping for a photo at the equator. Later we arrive in Uganda’s capital and largest city, Kampala. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Although officially this day is set aside for everyone to explore Kampala, most people take an optional day trip to the Chimpanzee Sanctuary of Ngamba Island. This non-profit eco-friendly project was set up in 1998 to care for orphaned chimpanzees. Optional Activities: Ngamba Chimpanzee Excursion, Kampala Markets, Dinner Out. Meals:Breakfast, Lunch
Lake Bunyonyi is a small but attractive lake with steep sides and abundant birdlife. Ringed by mountains, the lake is best known for its dense Otter population and stunning scenery. We make use of this beautiful spot to relax the night before the final drive to the gorillas. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The mountain gorilla is extremely endangered and while exact numbers vary it is widely assumed that there are only around 650 left. Visiting the gorillas is a great way to support their future on earth as the money spent on permits is used for their protection. An extremely important part of the future conservation of the remaining gorillas rests in the community development work – as local communities change their attitudes towards wildlife and start to protect rather than poach, the future of the mountain gorilla is assured.
As permits granting permission to visit the gorillas are extremely limited we require flexibility in both the tour itinerary and where we actually visit them. The home of the mountain gorillas is completely at odds with man-made borders and so their range encompasses Uganda, Rwanda and the DRC (Democratic Republic of the Congo). Whenever possible we choose to make use of the National Park in Uganda, but this depends on the availability of permits.
Should we not obtain permits to visit the mountain gorillas in Uganda then we will inform all passengers beforehand that the tour will travel to Rwanda or DRC.
On your free day in Bunyoni you will have the opportunity to participate in certain optional activities. You can embark on a boat ride to the community of the Batwa (pygmies) who stay in the islands adjacent to the lake to observe their social lifestyle, behaviour and be entertained by their cultural performances. You can also go hiking or explore the area on a mountain bike.
Optional activities: Visit to the Batwa (Pygmies) tribe, mountain biking, nature walk, hiking
Day 49. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Day 50. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Please note: Although there are 2 days allocated to Gorilla Trekking you will only spend one day on the trek. The other day are there to provide a large enough window in which to obtain permits and to allow the entire group to trek if there are more than 6 of you on the tour.
Leaving Lake Bunyoni, we venture to the Queen Elizabeth National Park, where we will spend the next 2 nights. Many game species can be found in this wetland park as well as the (elsewhere elusive) giant forest hog and the legendary tree-climbing lions of the Ishasha Sector. We will enjoy an included 4×4 game drive on day 10 through the NP. Optional Activities: Kasinga Channel Sunset Cruise, Chimpanzee trekking at Lake George. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Activity Package: Game Drive
Jinja is Uganda’s second largest city and more famous as the point where the Nile (officially the Victoria Nile) flows out of Lake Victoria and begins the 6695 kilometre journey to Egypt and the Mediterranean. Optional Activities: White Water Rafting. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (Day 11 only), Dinner
Returning to Kenya we visit Eldoret, the country’s 5th largest city. The Great Rift Valley is still the dominant geographical feature of this region and the altitude at Eldoret is 2100 metres above sea level. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Returning to Nairobi, the largest city in the East Africa region, there’s an optional dinner, where we can swap stories and exchange contact details. Optional Activities: Meal out in Nairobi. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
NB: The itinerary is flexible and can be changed without notice in order to accommodate the best possible viewing of the Gorillas. The Permit price to visit the Gorillas can also change without notice.Accommodation
On our camping tours you will be staying in two-man dome tents. We supply a mattress and you supply your own sleeping bag.
Included are three hearty meals a day, (unless otherwise specified). Vegetarians are easily catered for and they’re always impressed by our varied menu. Our guides can produce miracles on a camp-stove. Special dietary requirements can be catered for, but only by special request. In East Africa it is more difficult to cater to certain requirements.
Please note prices above exclude the gorilla permit which is mandatory if you intend on seeing the gorillas. This needs to be booked and paid for up front. You can opt out of this but this means you will not be able to see the mountain gorillas and may not be up to get a permit en route as they sell out well ahead.
Please contact us with your travel plans, there are set departures twice per month we will check availability for you.
Did you know we can help you plan an epic adventure? You can combine this trip with the following trips to extend you travels.
“We had a nice group of travellers, made some new friends. Special thanks to the crew: Godfree for his wonderful meals, Chris for his help, and Thabani, our guide. Hope too see you again on a other trip somewhere in Africa.! See more reviews here.”Marte B
” I just wanted to let you know that we had an outstanding time!! more reviews here.”Chavi
” The places we visited, the camp sites, the food, but most of all the people on this trip made it an unforgettable adventure!! See more reviews here.”Eduard
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Imagine a wild life nirvana, an unfenced national park bigger than Wales, stretching from South Africa to Mozambique. With wild Africa all around you you will enter one of the worlds best game parks and enjoy a camping safari. Here your days will be spent on game drives searching for the incredibly diverse wild life that this world renowned national park has to offer. At night you will sit under an incredible blanket of stars as you hear elephants and lions calling out into the wilderness, safe and protected by your blazing campfire.
Next stop you will be taken to the small mountainous kingdom of Swaziland. Swaziland is one of the last true kingdoms in the world with a King as ruling head of the country. The succession of the King to the thrown has been kept in the Dlamini line, if you want a sense of adventure, you will find it in Swaziland. Over the next few weeks you get involved in projects that aim to uplift the lives of disadvantaged children. You will be working in the Lobamba community, your aim at the sports project is to coach, support and motivate the children who attend the centre. Its lots of fun and always very rewarding!
Finally you will finish your trip in Priaha de Tofo, think beautiful stretches of beach, a friendly laid-back vibe, a small but pumping night life, great diving and snorkelling and a few good restaurants, and you are pretty much there. You will learn to dive (or complete your advanced if you already have a certification) in waters home to Whale Sharks and humpback whales. Clear visibility and warm tropical ocean currents support thousands of beautiful fish. The perfect end to an wonderful trip.
Day 1: Arrival Day Fly into Manzini international airport in Swaziland. Our representative will drive you to your backpacker lodge accommodation in the Ezulwini Valley (Valley of Heaven). Day 2: Introduction The second day begins with an informative presentation that will brief you on all you need to know about your 4 week experience. You will also take part in an orientation in which you will learn how to get around using public transport. Day 3-6: 5 day safari
Kruger National Park is probably Africa’s most famous conservation area. Spanning nearly 20,000 km2 it covers a vast array of habitats and associated wildlife. It has an aura of ancient times and offers some of the best opportunities in the world to view Africa’s big game. We venture on a five day tour into the heart of Kruger Park including 4 nights camping in the park and unlimited game drives exploring the vast wilderness with the expert guidance of one of our wildlife guides. Previous groups have had great sightings of lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo, leopard, wild dog and a variety of other of Kruger specialities. You will also have the exciting opportunity to take part in a guided bush walk as well as a night drive where you will go in search of nocturnal wildlife. Day 7: Leave for Swaziland You will depart Kruger for the beautiful Kingdom of Swaziland. Day 7 – 20: Start Community Project
Swaziland is Africa’s last remaining true monarchy and in it is unique laid-back way is steeped in Swazi culture and tradition. The Ezulwini Valley of Swaziland is known as the valley of heaven and is both home to the King and royal family and most of the countries tourism facilities and attractions. It is a scenic hilly Kingdom with a friendly age-old way of life that endears anyone who takes the time to experience it.
You will spend 10 days working at a community sport facility in a small settlement called Lobamba. The focus of the Sports Development Project is to improve the well being of disadvantaged children within rural Swazi communities, through sport. This project focuses on the following sports – football (soccer), tennis, netball, athletics and table tennis and incorporates both genders between the ages of 7 and 18. The project is based at a facility called OlympAfrica.
The project is borne out of a need in this tiny but beautiful Kingdom: Approximately 30% of children in Swaziland cannot afford to go to school. Without the structure of an educational institution children are denied the stimulation they need to keep them busy and developing in their formative years. In some cases this lack of structure and resultant boredom can lead children into petty criminal activity at an early age. Sport can be used as a method of improving and uplifting the lives of disadvantaged children keeping them stimulated, focused, fit and healthy. The Sport Project is based in the heart of the traditional capital of Swaziland, Lobamba and operates from here through to Manzini, which is Swazilands biggest town. Lobamba is surrounded by symbolic national monuments such as the Houses of Parliament, eLudzidzini Royal Residence, the National Church, the National Museum, the late King Sobhuza ll memorial and the national stadium, Somhlolo.
As a volunteer you will be involved in helping with the day to day coordination of this project. There are sports practice sessions each week day which you would help coordinate. The aim is encourage youths to participate, arrange training and sports activities, to develop sports teams, organise mini competitions and once at the right level, facilitate them to compete in local sports leagues. You will also be involved in the organising of matches between other teams in the area and fund raising for the development of the sports facilities. There are a few primary schools and day care centres in the area and the volunteers are encouraged to get them involved in sports development. Sports days are very popular events for the children at the schools and day care centre volunteers are encouraged to organize these fun filled events that bring much joy to the children.
During your time in Ezulwini you will also visit the Mantenga Cultural Village were you will have chance to experience traditional Swazi culture and life style as well as traditional dancing. Day 21-26: Beach Time
Mozambique is world famous for its idyllic tropical beaches on the Indian Ocean. Being an old Portuguese colony and having come out of a drawn out civil war it is now booming as quite possibly Africa’s top beach destination. Tofo Bay is a laid-back beach village in southern Mozambique and offers some of the best opportunities in the world to snorkel in the wild with the worlds biggest fish the whale shark. Tofo is also one of Africa best dive sites and its here that you will do your dive course. With diverse coral reefs, whales, and nesting turtles Tofo is a marine paradise and yet it is relatively close to the vibrant historic trading port of Inhambane.
We venture on a 7 day tour to Tofo where you will experience the laid-back beach lifestyle of this colourful and vibrant country. You will take part in an accredited PADI Open Water or Advanced Dive Course on which you will have the opportunity of exploring the spectacular fish life of the coral reefs and the chance to find the Tofo Big 5:
A beach party or two is par for the course and some chill time on the beach is guaranteed. Mozambique is a true gem on the east African coastline, an unspoiled paradise waiting to be explored. Day 27: Ezulwini (Swaziland) Depart Mozambique, and transfer back to your backpacker lodge in Swaziland. Day 28: Ezulwini (Swaziland) At the Lodge in Swaziland you will have a full day to relax, pack up and make preparations for your departure the following day. Day 29: Return home or onward travel Sadly all great adventures must come to an end and on your final day you will leave the backpacker lodge in Swaziland and will fly out of Manzini International Airport or depart by other means. The transfer to the airport is included and provided.
South Africa is emerging as a rainbow nation from its apartheid past. The country boasts some of the worlds most exciting attractions ranging from natural scenery, beaches and wildlife to bustling cities rich in cultural diversity.
In Kruger you will be accommodated in safari style dome tents with two people per tent. Tent, mattress, and pillow are provided but you will need to bring your own sleeping bag. The camps are fenced so you will be safe from wild animals while in camp. The camps are well equipped with clean toilets, hot water showers and well stocked shops were you can by drinks, snacks, souvenirs etc.
Mozambique is one of Africa’s top beach destinations, with stunning tropical beaches, excellent diving and magical offshore islands.
The accommodation is in a beach backpacker lodge where you will share dorms. Bed, pillows, and sheet are provided but again you will need to bring a sleeping bag. The lodge is situated right on the beach and set among lush indigenous vegetation and tall coconut palms. There are communal toilets and hot water showers. The lodge has its own restaurant and bar which is located high on top of a sand dune with sweeping views over the bay and out into the Indian Ocean.
Please note the activities are not included in the price of the project and need to be funded locally if you choose to do them.
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The Kruger to Coast Sports Adventure starts in Swaziland. If you are travelling from abroad it is usually easiest to fly into the region and usually the cheapest is to fly into Johannesburg in South Africa. From there you can either take a connecting flight to Manzini international airport in Swaziland (takes about 1 hour) using Swazi Airlink (a branch of South African Airways) or take a bus to Swaziland (takes all day but is cheaper) using the Baz bus.
Flying into Swaziland:
Occasionally your luggage may get delayed en route although this is not very common. In such cases your bags will usually arrive on the next flight (or two) so it is wise to bring with you, in your hand luggage, one spare change of clothes and a wash bag. It never hurts to be too prepared!
“I loved every minute of my trip, it was so much fun, and also learned a lot! The best experience for me on this trip was being in Swaziland. In the village i met so many beautiful kids, who came running up to me and the others for cuddles and photographs, loved it!”Caroline Burt
“My highlight was Mozambique, the beaches were just stunning. Ahhh and the Kruger park off course! “Brian B
“It was a great trip to the Kruger Park. In two hours we saw the Big Five and on the other days mostly all animals. That was really amazing.”Melanie Miesterfeld & Melanie Mittl
“Kruger was a great experience! Beautiful surroundings, we saw a lot of animals. Seeing a leopard six times in those days was amazing. Our guides were loads of fun and prepared five star meals for us! Going to Kruger was a dream come true!”Ellen Wilms
“My Kruger adventure was really amazing! It was amazing, not only to see the Big Five and all the other animals but especially the people who were driving with us! Lots of love”Ann-Sofie De Mey
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]]>Do it all in Tofo, Mozambique. Here in this sublime backpacker hotspot you can dive and snorkel with mantas and whale sharks, surf some of the best breaks the Indian Ocean has to offer and explore nearby tropical islands by sea kayak with plenty of chill time on some of the worlds best beaches. This is the ultimate Mozambique adventure.
With one of the longest coastlines of any African country, untouched and spectacularly beautiful, Mozambique is the gem of any Africa Gap Year. Plenty of adrenaline sports and cool chill out experiences await you in Tofo, with the Xtreme Gap Year Mozambique Adventure programme cramming in the best that the country has to offer. Did you know there is amazing surf breaks here? Interspersed with a massive whale shark population it’s a great backpacker location and a superb place to chill out for a week or two. The longer you stay the more you get to do.
A modular trip booked by the week, the trip gives you the opportunity to do some seriously fun activities.
This trip is especially good when booked in connection with the Kruger to Coast sports programme as you can end up bolting assaults the trip to prolong your African Xtreme Gap experience.
Why we give you the option to get your diving certificate must be clear. In Mozambique you can ‘dive the big 5′ meaning you can encounter:
Tofo is quickly becoming one of Mozambique s favourite diving destinations offering great training grounds for new divers and a large array of deep and shallow sites for the already qualified divers. National Geographic recently voted Tofo as one of the prime whale shark and manta ray viewing sites in the world.
This programme has a flexible itinerary based on weather conditions for activities. This means one day you might go surfing, another day out on an ocean safari. During your week there you have the option to do it all. Bear in mind there is plenty to do in Tofo, and as it is one of the top backpacker destinations in Africa, you will have plenty to write home about.
On arrival you will get an introduction and meet the other travellers. Accommodation and breakfast are included.
During your week you will be taken out on an ocean safari, to swim with Whalesharks! Do not worry they are completely harmless, but incredible to swim with! Tofo is one of the best places in the world to do this!
Take a step back in time with an island kayak tour to visit an untouched piece of the Inhambane lagoon system. These kayak trips depart from White Sands and the journey is an one hour paddle across to the island where the local people have prepared a truly local feast.
The kayak trip is suitable for everyone and anyone, and our two seater ocean kayaks are fast and stable. Refreshments are provided, and a tour of the island allows people an inside view to this special little place. The tour highlights include visiting the school, churches, hospital and the rare chance to witness the ancient dhow manufacturing process, as well as amazing Mozambique hospitality.
The coastline of Mozambique is a long stretch of waves waiting to be explored. One the Mozambique adventure you can get a taster for this cool Xtreme sport. The Indian Ocean waters of Tofo and Tofinho are clean and warm, averaging around 24 degrees C. and waves for all surfing abilities. The water is marvelously warm and dolphins often frequent the break.
Tofo surf is seasonal, the peak being over winter (May-August), but there is a steady flow of waves all year round with the cyclone swells coming through between end December to beginning March.
The main wave, Tofinho Point, is definitely not for beginners. It’s a rock ledge set up that wraps around a headland. The wave breaks just off the ledge, on sand, and follows the shape off the ledge making it a very hollow wave; especially on low tide (it loves the spring tides!).
The next break is Dragons Point, another quality right hander that actually links up to Tofinho Point on a big swell, creating an amazingly long ride.
If you have previous surf experience you can try your skills at these breaks, (check out our Mozambique Surf Dude Programme), but for most on the Mozambique Adventure, this is their first step into the world of surfing.
Heading about a kilometre north to the next bay brings you to the main beach of Tofo. A wide bay protected from the southerly wind and swell makes this a perfect venue for learning. The swells are clean and gentle with sandbanks that gradually produce bigger waves at the Northern end of the bay – an ideal spot for beginners or intermediates.
And there are other surf spots in the area (such as the next bay, ‘Back Door Beach’) that work better in different winds, ensuring that there is nearly always good surf to be had. You can book extra lessons or hire equipment locally if you get the surf bug, do as little or as much as you like, it is up to you!
Become a certified diver and get your Open Water Diver certificate in Mozambique. Doing your Open Water Diving course will take 4 days and you will make 4 dives in the ocean. With this certificate you will be able to dive to 18 meters all over the world. If you are already an Open Water Diver you can do Your Advanced Open Water Course which will allow you to go to 30 meters. This course takes 3 days and you will do 5 dives.
You can also decide to do fun dives if you are already a qualified diver. This way you can see the amazing marine life in Mozambique! Dives can be booked upfront or locally.
The diveschool we work with is equipped with:
Your home for your stay is the awesome Turtle Cove. Turtle Cove was first established in 1994 by avid surfer, Nic Tasioulas, who boldly settled in Tofo, Mozambique in those early days. Today, Turtle Cove remains legendary, and after an extraordinary revamp, the lodge offers an exotic ambiance amidst the Palm gardens. Built in a striking blend of Mozambican, Mali and West African architecture, Turtle Cove exudes a charming and warm welcome to travellers seeking the perfect accommodation choice in Tofo.
BAR & RESTAURANT
Freshly caught fish and prawns are superbly prepared together with local specialties, vegetarian specials, as well as our popular sushi evenings. Dinner time is a relaxed affair where guests gather around the bar for sundowners to talk about the highlights of the day and typically viewing some surf footage of the surf taking off at Tofinho point. On occasions there will be live music around the fire after dinner.
ACCOMMODATION FACILITIES
The lodge comfortably accommodates 22 guests in 7 double/twin chalets and 2 family units (each sleeping 4 guests comfortably).
All rooms are en-suite and consist of double or twin beds, mosquito nets, bed linen.
Please take own shower and beach towels as these are not supplied. The rooms are serviced by municipal power and each has 3-point 220V power point with 2-point adaptors. Rooms are serviced daily upon request.
DORMITORY ROOMS & CAMPSITE
For backpackers and travellers, Turtle Cove offers the option of camping in a large shaded area with braai areas as well as dormitory rooms. This programme uses dorms as standard, with the option to upgrade to chalets.
As you do this in the morning, you are free of residual nitrogen and can do this as much as you want, in the afternoon you can go diving, surfing or chilling on the beach.
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There are no set start dates for this program please contact us with your travel dates.
“I had an awesome week in Tofo, really enjoyed the surfing but the highlight would definitely have to be swimming with the whale shark.”James Bell
“I absolutely adored the people and had lots of fun it was a great way to end my African adventure.”Sofia Adams
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]]>The Whale Shark Marine Conservation Project in Mozambique is the ultimate marine conservation project. Help with whale shark data collection, reef monitoring, and humpbacked whale research. Volunteers will also be involved in turtle nest data collection, as well as getting the chance to dive at one of Africa’s best gap year diving destinations.
Whale Sharks are the giants of the sea. They are the biggest fish in the world and incredible to swim with. Whale Sharks are surface feeders eating tiny microscopic plankton, but they eat so much of it that they can grow up to 18 metres! This exciting Whale Shark Marine Conservation Project comprises of assisting with the conservation of Whale Sharks, coral reefs and other marine life while living in Tofo. Tofo is a hot spot of adventure on the Mozambique coast line.
Although day to day activities vary on the Whaleshark Marine Conservation Project a typical day in the life of a volunteer working on the Project might be:
Your job on the Whale Shark Conservation Project will carry out marine research data collection and assist with monitoring activities under the supervision and guidance of the projects field co-ordinator. Joining other volunteers on this project, you will be hands on, collecting data via: beach walks, boat survey, swimming, freediving, and scuba diving.
Your assistance is vital to carrying out the required field activities, but also helping to fund the project. As you would expect the diving will be excellent and this will be a stunning environment to enjoy learning principals of marine conservation and learning about the worlds biggest fish, the Whale Shark.
Our volunteers are vital to help monitor whale shark populations, assist in understanding their behaviour and also you will be able to take underwater photos to help identify them. Joining research scuba teams to assist with the monitoring of coral reefs, during certain seasons you may also get the opportunity to help with hump back whale surveys as well.
| 2 weeks | £1,452 |
| 3 weeks | £1,749 |
| 4 weeks | £1,991 |
| 6 weeks | £2,558 |
| 8 weeks | £2,910 |
| 12 weeks | £3,943 |
| Extra 4 Weeks | £1,053 |
You can start this trip on the first Monday of every month.
“Unfortunately we did not see Whalesharks everyday, but the times we did it was amazing, so gracious and beautiful, and experience I will never forget.”Peter Davis
“Very nice location, great weather, and it suited my biology study perfectly, thanks for the tip Xtreme!”Amy Potter
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This programme offers you a unique experience to develop your riding skills, learn about the culture of Mozambique and make a difference helping our horses in Vilanculos & the Bazaruto Archipelago.
The Volunteer Programme is based on the coast in Vilankulo and offers students the chance to acquire a wealth of information about equine management, riding skills and life in Africa. Students are required to help organize out rides, manage clients, groom horses, participate in feeding and assist with any veterinary activities that may occur during their stay. In addition to working with the horses in Vilankulo, trips will be arranged to the Bazaruto Archipelago to work with our horse on the island.
You will become part of the family and form a deep bond with the horse under your care. Expect long riding sessions up some of the finest stretches of coast line in the world, and rich happy memories of your gap year in Africa.
These are not just any horses either, smuggled out of Zimbabwe escaping the chaos caused by Mugabe´s regime by their owners they would have quite a story to tell, if they could talk.
We now have 60 horses in Vilankulos. 10 on Benguerra island and 50 on the mainland. Sadly depleted we only have 70 left from the original 104 that left Zimbabwe.
Gain hands on experience in Equine Management
We aim to equip students with the hands on experience, knowledge and skills to actively participate in running an African horse safari. We provide a wealth of information in equine management, riding skills, client hospitality, animal husbandry and community involvement.
Off-days will be organized at different times during the week, as weekends are usually busy. Adventure activities are available in the area. Should volunteers decide to participate in these activities (such as scuba diving, snorkelling, dhow sailing & fishing) they can be arranged at participants’ own expense.
The waters around the Bazaruto Archipelago are one of the largest marine conservation areas in the Indian Ocean and optional activities include scuba diving, snorkeling, safaris and fishing
We can arrange intensive one-to-one Portuguese language courses in Vilankulo the cost is 10US an hour. The benefits of learning Portuguese are huge and you will be able to build rapport and strengthen relationships with local Mozambicans.
Our volunteers usually have a love of horses. The beach riding is some of the best in the world. We are also the Gateway to the Bazarutto Archipelago. We are close to Gorongoza and Tofu. We have some of the best dive sites in the world. We interact with schools and other projects to give our volunteers a good view of life in Mozambique. No day is the same!
We do not have a routine as such as every day is different for us. We like our volunteers to help in all aspects of horse management. They do conversational English teaching in the mornings and hold leadership skills courses with students from the local school. We are involved in a fishing village called Enriques where we take clients so they can sample Mozambican food. Our volunteers have to opportunity to visit the islands either on Dhows or motor boats. Most do a dive course to take advantage of learning to dive in some of the best tropical dive sites in the world, with high Whale shark populations.
All days here are different, as we have to rise to meet each new challenge as they come, but this is an itinerary of the kind of day you can expect to enjoy with us at Mozambique Horse Safari. Please be aware that, because we are a real project dealing with the day to day running of a herd of nearly seventy horses, we have to maintain flexibility. This can depend on the number of volunteers at the time, the needs of the horses, number of outriders or lessons booked. You have two days off a week to pursue a social life and have fun.
You will be based in South Beach, Vilankulo at Blue Waters Beach Resort or Casa Gucci and on Benguerra Island we have a small volunteer house. Accommodation is a room with bed, mosquito net, ablution shower blocks and the resort has a swimming pool, restaurant & bar. The accommodation is within easy walking distance of the stables and a short ride from the town centre. Vilankulo itself offers easy access to internet cafe’s, ATM’s, supermarket, restaurants, bars, markets and much more. All volunteers are fully catered for and receive three excellent meals per day and a laundry service. We have internet on the project the cost being 120 mets an hour. (Less than 5US an hour)
features and benefits
A long time ago before the Second World War, Patrick’s grandfather Paul bred horses in Berlin, His stables were famous and they trained Gimpel who won the Germans a medal in the Olympics. Paul married Baroness Munchausen and they lived a privileged life in Berlin where Paul owned a bank in partnership with a Jew called Lewinsky. Their bank was called the Retzlaff Lewinsky Bank.
Their lives changed with the rise of fascism and soon Paul and his family were black listed by the Nazis for their sympathetic attitude towards Jews. They packed everything up and sailed to Tanzania where they bought a coffee farm called “Voice of the Lion” The family knew nothing about agriculture and had no knowledge of farming coffee. There are some enchanting family photographs of the family in mud huts with their priceless heirlooms around them and one can only imagine how difficult it must have been and how hard to adapt to lives that had changed so radically. My husband’s grandmother soon succumbed to veldt sores and died of septicemia.
When the war broke out the Retzlaff’s were interned except for Godfrey Patrick’s father he was naturalized and fought for the Brits against his own cousins in Northern Italy. After the Second World War Godfrey returned to Tanzania. He worked on the ground nut scheme which employed ex service men and women. There he met Vera an English girl who has been a WREN in the navy and they married. After their marriage they dairy farmed at the base of Mount Mehru and my husband and his brothers were all born in Tanzania.
When Tanzania gained independence Julius Nyere put policies into place that were detrimental to the country. Vera was worried about the boys’ education and their own security as the land was nationalized so they made a decision to leave Tanzania and start a new life in Rhodesia which is now called Zimbabwe.
I had a very similar background and was born in Ghana; my father was an architect who worked for the colonial services after the end of the war. My mother was a nursing sister. We too left Ghana after independence as my father’s position was no longer secure and we settled in South Africa.
Patrick and I met when he was at University and we married in 1978. It was the height of the bush war as Rhodesia battled with terrorism mainly affecting the farms which were the economic wheel. All men were called up for service and many women ran the farms while their husbands spent long months in the bush.
Eventually South Africa gave in to external pressure and Rhodesia was forced to hand over to Robert Mugabe who became the new president of one of the most beautiful countries in the world. During the transition Robert Mugabe assured everyone that he offered the hand of reconciliation and every Rhodesian would now be a Zimbabwean and we would all work together for the benefit of our country.
Unfortunately in 2000 Robert Mugabe held a referendum and found that he was rapidly losing popularity to Morgan Tsvangerai. As the economy fell with Government over spending an opposition party was formed in the labour unions. We had already realized how lethal Robert Mugabe was with the killings of the Matabele in the early 80’s. Crack forces trained in Korea were sent to Matabeleland where they murdered and raped. It was not even reported in the newspapers for the fear of reprisal.
As Morgan’s popularity grew so did Mugabe’s anger. He had to suppress a nation and as it was an agriculturally based economy he had to get rid of us. So we were one of the victims of the 2001 trashing and looting of farms in the Chinhoyi district.
Our neighbours were nearly killed and what they had to endure during the hours that they were barricaded in their home can be read on my website. They made a decision to leave for New Zealand and asked if we could take their horses.
We moved horses and staff over the country leasing farms where we could. As the land invasions intensified we would have to move on, sometimes packing up in less than four hours. When I look back on it now it seems like a horrible dream. As more and more farmers left the country horses were left behind. As so many people were loathe to leave their beloved horses and did not want them to be put down we took them in. We always thought that the madness would stop and that we would be able to use the horses for various things if we were able to farm again.
After our 6th eviction we ran out of grazing for the horses and we made a decision to move them to Mozambique. We also got involved in an agricultural project in a town called Chimoio 80 km from the border. Here we found the horses refuge. Unfortunately the business soon collapsed as Mozambique was not ready for commercial agriculture. People we had lent money to were unable to pay back and in some instances paprika was sold outside the country through bribes paid by desperate farmers. Our investors quickly withdrew from Mozambique leaving Patrick and I penniless with 104 horses to look after and a lot of debt mainly incurred by farmers who were unable to pay back their debts. A terrible situation to be in.
So Patrick loaded 7 horses into an old truck and drove 455 km to the seaside resort of Vilankulos and started Mozambique Horse Safari with not a bean in his pocket while I looked after the rest of the herd in Chimoio.
The horses adapted to their new life very quickly and Patrick was positive we would soon be on our feet. Unfortunately on the 17th of February barely two months after Pat’s arrival Vilankulos was hit by a cyclone and the damage to tourism was absolutely disastrous. It has taken nearly two years to rebuild Vilankuos.
We now have 60 horses in Vilankulos. 10 on Benguerra island and 50 on the mainland.
Sadly depleted we only have 70 left from the original 104. Mainly disease as Mozambique has had no veterinary control for over 20 years. Ringworm is endemic in the Mozambican population and rapidly spread through the horses. We had animals slaughtered and butchered for meat. We lost a few to road kill after fencing wire had been stolen from the paddocks.13 were given to the Beira Equestrian Centre.
We have survived and it’s a miracle but mainly through the determination of my amazing husband Patrick who has never wavered and has kept us all going though this rather extraordinary life.
The Mozambique Horse project has now been in operation for nearly three years. We offer some of the best beach riding in the world. We have been touched by the letters we receive from satisfied riders who have spent time with us. We are proud of our horse’s achievements and hope that we continue to grow.
Our horses have kept us smiling. They have taught us important lessons and kept our family together through some unbearable times. Hopefully we will be able to continue to look after them and face the challenges ahead, all the time looking forward to a brighter future in Mozambique and maybe in the not too distant future we can all go home.
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There are no set start dates for this trip, please contact us with your preferred travel dates and we will check availability.
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Scuba diving in Inhambane is amongst the best in the world, with reefs close to every beach, including the world famous Manta Reef and Galleria. Regular sightings of giant manta rays, whale sharks, turtles and other teeming marine life make this one of the best gap year diving destinations in the world. This is an intensive diving trip in the best place in the world to dive with whale sharks. Cheaper and a lot more dives than the conservation project too.
“The best thing about this trip was overcoming fears, meeting new friends, getting to know a new skill, seeing amazing places. Diving is a skill for life which is fantastic.”Sam Pizer
“The diving was fantastic, plus I got to go on a few Snorkel trips with whale sharks too ;))”Katie L.
If you love diving, amazing beaches and want to dive with whale sharks, manta rays and experience one of the best diving locations in the world (according to the Lonely Planet) then this is the trip for you! We run this Amazing Value for Money programme in conjunction with some of the worlds experts with great records of success for locating and diving with whale sharks. You will stay close to the stunning beach of Tofo and dive every day. Besides diving there is plenty to keep you occupied, from snorkelling excellent coral reefs, to surfing, kitesurfing and horse riding.
Get up nice and early to enjoy the continental breakfast at your resort close by the Indian Ocean, if you are really early you will see an impressive sun rise over the ocean, but knowing the night life in Tofo that pleasure might be a one off!
Then head to the dive centre to grab your equipment before heading out on an ocean safari.
The ocean safari takes place every day at 10.30, and is your best bet for interacting with a whale shark any where in the world! All snorkelling gear, including rash vests are included.
Part of this briefing is devoted to educating our swimmers on the importance of correct interaction between us and the whale shark. Remember, no touching the whale sharks ever (their skin is sensitive to human bacteria).
Then its out on to the beach for the launch, there is usually a buzz of excited nervous anticipation with the group, wondering how many you will see today, and whether manta rays will make an appearance. You can very often swim with manta rays and dolphins on the safari.
The guides are highly skilled at tracking the whale sharks, and before long you will be able to enter the water with them (video of a whale shark swim – not set in Tofo).
After the safari, it is back to the dive centre, and lunch, fresh barbecued fish to satisfy your appetite after a morning of chasing an 18 metre fish in the deep blue.
You have 27 dives available to you on the 4 week trip (or 20 on the 2 week option), you decide when you want to go locally, but you should always consider that you should dive after the ocean safari not before (because you still have nitrogen in your bloodstream), so afternoons are better for diving, unless you are skipping the ocean safari for the day.
There are up to 16 scuba dive sites that can be explored, and new sites are being discovered regularly. Depths vary between 10 to 40 meters; and every scuba diver will be able to dive in Tofo, even though deeper dives are for advanced scuba divers only. So quite often, people upgrade to do their advanced open water course before they go or locally (you can pre-book this before you travel).
Visibility does vary underwater, but sometimes it is 30 metres! It all depends on plankton, currents, wind and tides, but is usually between 5 and 30 meters. The water temperature varies from 23 to 29 degrees Celsius depending on the time of the year.
The underwater world around Tofo Beach carries large amounts of nutritious plankton, attracting many different species of marine life. Leopard sharks, sea turtles, devil rays, honeycomb morays, potato groupers, sea moths, frog fish, Spanish dancers, scorpion fish, barracudas, crocodile fish, nudi branches, and harlequin shrimps, it is consider to be one of the best dive locations in Africa.
The Small Eye Stingray is the worlds largest stingray, and was recently identified in Tofo by marine biologist Dr. Simon Pierce. The species is a common sight off Tofo, one of the only places it has ever been sighted alive.
If you are not a qualified diver yet we can upgrade your booking with an Open Water Dive course for £350.
Then it is beach time! Or surf time, or kitesurf time, or just good old fashioned, book in a hammock with a cold beer. A little chill out to regain some energy (snorkelling and diving is tiring but feels so good!) and then a show before dinner with your new backpacker mates. There is always something happening in Tofo, and there are always temptations to party in the evening. Whether you join in the fun or not is up to you, because when that sun comes up tomorrow, you can do it all over again. Still, diving is probably the worlds greatest hangover cure anyway…
On the ocean safaris, you do not need to go in scuba gear, you snorkel or freedive. If you have never been in the water with a whale shark, here is the reason why you do not do this in scuba gear. Whale sharks are surface feeders and descend to 25 metres and back up to the surface regularly, they are also reasonably fast in the water as well (they swim around the same speed as someone doing a leisurely front crawl). In scuba gear it is really hard to keep up with them from the drag on the equipment, and the fact that they ascend and descend so much would make it dangerous if you attempted to follow them up and down (you might get the bends). While most divers are aware of this, you would be surprised how many experienced divers just lose it when they see one, and start maintaining erratic profiles to keep up with the whale sharks. If you are snorkelling, not only is it easier to keep up with them, but you are free to duck and dive with them and ascend at any rate.
As you do this in the morning, you are free of residual nitrogen and can do this as much as you want, in the afternoon you can go diving, surfing or chilling on the beach.
| 2 weeks | £1,452 |
| 3 weeks | £1,749 |
| 4 weeks | £1,991 |
| 6 weeks | £2,558 |
| 8 weeks | £2,910 |
| 12 weeks | £3,943 |
| Extra 4 Weeks | £1,053 |
You can start this trip any time please contact us for startdates
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How would you like to get a diploma, spend four weeks travelling somewhere exotic with the possibility to get paid for your efforts at the end of it. Sound too good to be true? Well it isn’t.
Not only can you do all that, you will get mentored by one of the top journalists in the country Beci Wood who spent 10 years at the biggest newspaper in the UK. Get assistance publishing your piece and sending out through news channels with the aim of it being picked up as newsworthy. This will give you an amazing exposure and a genuine opportunity to try out and launch a new career in journalism.
On this program you can either undertake the diploma only and use it to boost your qualifications whilst you undertake any of our gap year programs, or you can involve yourself On our Xtreme journalism assignments. Set in 2 locations where you can study and learn more about journalism.
For the assignments, you can choose either Thailand, or Mexico and you have four weeks to complete the course and we throw in some adventure activities along the way. What they are depends on the time of year, we do not keep it set so we can react to any newsworthy stories or events.
The course involves quite a bit of coursework, so where better to undertake some investigative journalism, or get inspired than abroad by paradise beaches.
You have full backup and support of our UK-based tutors, who have considerable experience in the industry. You can actually study anywhere as long as you have an Internet connection and a laptop.
Once you have completed the course and have written your final piece we will assist you in sending this out to our media houses who may or may not pick up on the story. If you do get published you will receive 60 percent of your royalty fees which could be enough to cover the cost of the entire course.
What you report on is up to you, but you will have the full back up and support and guidance of professional journalists (including the head mentor on the programme – Beci Wood with 10 years experience on staff at the UK´s biggest newspaper).
Not only is journalism and exciting career, it’s something you can take with you to your next stage after travelling, whether that be a part-time job at University, or something you do on the side or launch phone into as a career.
So whether you want to do something genuinely rewarding while you travel, or want to have something that not only looks amazing – really is amazing on your CV then the Xtreme reporter as you.
On the Thailand option we have a completely unique and very exciting work experience attachment to this program. You will work in a genuine media Company that produces monthly magazines all over Asia. Working from their offices in Phuket, you will put your newfound skills to use: tasked With writing articles and uncovering stories as a reporter. You will go out develop and write stories and make a valued contribution to the magazine and online websites. Working under the CEO and his media team this is a genuinely unique opportunity to gain work experience and do a really fun job which will build your resume and give you an insight into an exciting industry as you travel.
The company is called think media and is American run running various different franchises of popular magazines, what’s on guides and delivers local news and features in and around Phuket.
The work experience option can either last two weeks or four weeks, depending on your preference and includes all accommodation.
In Mexico you will stay in Playa del Carmen, a short walk from the beach at our base the Bendito Rancho. This is based on a dormitory (shared accommodation).
In Thailand you will stay in Phuket where you will also be involved in a work experience module with think media. You will stay on a bungalow either your own or shared with one other person the same sex. The bungalow is located close to the officers.
Journalism needs specialists. People with knowledge and passion for their subject. We provide a range of courses in specialist subjects ranging from health to the environment through to investigative and travel journalism.
Journalism courses currently available:
Yes our courses are accredited by third party organisations
Our diploma is widely recognised in the UK and overseas. It is a vocational award, equivalent to an NVQ level 1 or 2.
The Open and Distance Learning Quality Council (ODLQC) and the ABCC validate it.
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