Mozambique, a country with a colourful and sometimes chequered past, offers a rich mix of experiences. Sail in a Dhow, snorkel in crystal clear waters and walk on deserted beaches, all on a startling coastline of incredible natural beauty. The appeal of this destination is that it remains relatively undiscovered by tourists. Adding the wildlife of South Africa’s Kruger National Park, and the history of Zimbabwe, makes for a great 14 day adventure. Code AR

Departing Johannesburg our destination is the internationally famous Kruger National Park. Entering the southern section we seek out the abundant wildlife, with camera and binoculars at the ready. This is Big Five country and the excitement of encountering the majestic elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion or even leopard is unforgettable. Our first two nights of the trip are spent in one of the park’s rest camps, surrounded by the sounds of the bush.

We cross into Mozambique and explore the capital, Maputo with its sidewalk cafés. The colonial architecture has seen grander days and market stalls sell everything from fish to curios. We shop here before moving on to our campsite nearby.

Sights en route are varied – inland lakes, rural villages, plantations of cashew nut trees and the brilliant blue sea. For centuries Arab and Persian traders exchanged cloth, salt and beads for slaves, ivory and gold in Inhambane Bay. A stop at Inhambane’s colourful market allows us to buy fresh bread and fruit before continuing to Ponta Da Barra, a peninsula of long white beaches. We camp here for three nights, surrounded by coconut palms. We have two days to enjoy the optional activities of snorkeling, diving or fishing*. One can simply unwind, tan and swim - the choice is yours. The beauty of the location will form a lasting impression.

This is an incredible coast. We carry on to Vilanculos and prepare for our boat journey in an Arab Dhow, across to the islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago. Proclaimed a national park in 1971, the protected reefs support dolphins and marine turtles.

Open your tent, take in the view and walk down to the boat. There are myriads of tropical fish to discover while snorkelling* in the warm crystal clear waters. We camp on one of the islands for the night, walk deserted beaches and watch the sun slide into the ocean at the end of the day.

Passing fishermen in their small wooden boats, whose fishing methods have remained unchanged for centuries, we sail back to Vilanculos. Our time on the island will have undoubtedly formed one of the highlights of your trip through Mozambique. This is our last night on the coast.

Relax and watch the changing scenery during today’s drive inland towards Zimbabwe. Our destination is Casa Msika on Lake Chicamba where the swimming pool is a welcoming sight.