dive mozambique: CORALS, wrecks and off-grid island REEF conservation
12 Days/11 Nights
Mozambique & South Africa
12 - 23 November 2026
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Maximum Group Size: 7 Divers
This 12-day expedition takes you from the vibrant reefs of Tofo to the remote shores of Inhaca Island, before ending deep in the African wilderness of Kruger National Park.
We begin with reef dives in Tofo, before heading off-grid to Inhaca Island, where we stay at a Marine Biology Research Station. Here you will learn how to survey coral reefs, join reef monitoring dives, and explore historic wrecks around the island that few divers have ever experienced. The journey ends with two unforgettable nights in safari in Kruger National Park, searching for the Big Five in one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes.
Travel during shark season, when warm waters attract a variety of shark species including bull sharks, hammerheads, tiger sharks and leopard sharks.
This trip includes 12 dives: 6 dives in Tofo and 6 dives near Inhaca Island, which will be a mix of survey, reef, and wreck dives.
This trip includes 1 full day game drive in Kruger National Park and 2 half-day game drives.
This trip is designed not only to explore the waters of Mozambique, but to truly connect with them. Through plenty of diving, learning, storytelling sessions, and time spent in both marine and terrestrial environments, we will deepen our understanding of the ocean along the way. Expect a journey filled with adventure and meaningful moments of connection, from time underwater to shared conversations around the fire.
Certification Level Required: Advanced Open Water
€3600/ per person sharing
Travel dates:
12 - 23 November 2026
Or have any questions?
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
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DIVING IN TOFO
A recognised Mission Blue Hope Spot, known for its biodiversity and conservation significance. Beneath the surface, the reefs support a wide range of marine life, including pelagics.
During our time in Tofo, we will be diving a variety of sites to get a well-rounded feel for what diving here is like.
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INHACA ISLAND
This island is part of Maputo National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site) where pristine beaches, inland lakes, marine ecosystems, and wildlife coexist within one protected landscape. Here we will stay in the Marine Biology Research Station with the nearest village 5 KM away.
Giving us a proper taste of offline island life, while we experience the various ecosystems. -
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WRECKS
Inhaca is home to incredible diveable wrecks, unlike nearby destinations like Tofo or Ponta do Ouro. Some lie in what is otherwise an underwater desert of sand, but over the years they have transformed into thriving artificial reefs filled with life (both pelagic and reef life). Expect huge schools of trevally and snapper, giant groupers, eagle rays, and stingrays.
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SHARK SEASON
Travel during shark season, when warmer waters attract a variety of shark species to the area. This period offers the chance to encounter bull sharks, hammerheads, tiger sharks, leopard sharks, alongside other seasonal pelagics that move through Mozambique’s waters.
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REEF SURVEYS
This trip is designed not only to get in the water, but also to deepen your understanding of the ocean and contribute to research. During our reef dives around Inhaca Island, we will take part in reef surveys alongside our dives. You will learn how to collect and interpret the data used to monitor reef health.
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TRADITIONAL BRAAI
During the trip, we’ll share a relaxed evening together over a traditional South African braai.
Whether it’s on the beach or in a cozy outdoor setting, it’s a moment to slow down, enjoy good food, and connect as a group.
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MANGROVES & ROCKY SHORES
Beyond the reefs and wrecks, we will also explore the coastal and biodiverse environments of Inhaca Island.
One of the highlights is a kayaking tour through the mangroves, where if we’re lucky, we may spot greater flamingos as it’s the tail end of their season in November. -
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OCEAN STORTELLING
Storytelling will be an integral part of this trip. A way of connecting more deeply with the places we visit, both above and below the water.
Through dedicated storytelling and knowledge sessions, we will gain a deeper understanding of these environments, going beyond what we see during our time in the water.
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KRUGER NATIONAL PARK
During this trip, we will spend two incredible days in Kruger National Park, staying in a luxury tented camp right on the Crocodile River where wildlife often passes by along the water’s edge. With four guided game drives included, we’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore the area and try our luck spotting the Big 5.
ITINERARY DETAILS
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12 November
Upon arrival in Vilanculos, Mozambique, we begin the journey south with a scenic five-hour drive to Tofo, a vibrant coastal town known for its incredible marine life and laid-back atmosphere.
Once we arrive, we will settle into Praia Sonambula, beautiful beach houses located just a few meters from the ocean. Here you’ll have time to drop your bags, freshen up, and properly meet your fellow travellers in a relaxed environment.
In the evening, we will gather for a welcome dinner, where we will introduce the adventure ahead and share a briefing about the upcoming days and dives.
Meals: Welcome Dinner -
13 November
After breakfast, it’s finally time to hit the waters of Tofo and explore some of the region’s incredible reefs. Over the next three days of diving, we will visit different sites depending on the conditions.
In the afternoon, there will be free time to relax, explore the village, or enjoy the beach.
Meals: BreakfastOptional activities available:
Snorkel in the calm estuary of Barra Bay, home to resident seahorses, during a guided 2-hour outing. (Includes transport)
Learn to surf the waves with experienced local instructors, tailored to your level.
A guided yoga and meditation session held on the beach.
Explore coastal dunes and surrounding villages on a guided off-road ride.
Ride along the shoreline or through coconut groves on a guided horseback experience.
Full list upon request
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14 November
After breakfast, we head back out to sea for another day of diving the vibrant reefs of Tofo. Each day we select dive sites based on the conditions and wildlife activity, giving us the best opportunity to explore a variety of reefs and encounter the incredible marine life this coastline is known for.
Later in the day, we will gather for a special storytelling session with one of the local fishermen, whose knowledge of these waters has been passed down through generations. As the father of one of our skippers, he will share stories of life at sea and the history of fishing along this coastline, a beautiful way to connect with the human side of Tofo’s ocean culture.
Meals: Breakfast
Optional activities available:
Snorkel in the calm estuary of Barra Bay, home to resident seahorses, during a guided 2-hour outing. (Includes transport)
Learn to surf the waves with experienced local instructors, tailored to your level.
A guided yoga and meditation session held on the beach.
Explore coastal dunes and surrounding villages on a guided off-road ride.
Ride along the shoreline or through coconut groves on a guided horseback experience.
Full list upon request
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15 November
After breakfast, we head out for our final dives on the reefs of Tofo. Later in the day, we will gather for an ocean conservation talk, where we will learn more about the region’s marine ecosystems and the important conservation initiatives taking place along this coastline. We will dive into topics such as local marine biodiversity, ongoing protection efforts, and fascinating species like the seahorses that inhabit these waters.
In the evening, we will take it easy and have an early night, as the next day brings a long journey to the next part of our adventure.
Meals: Breakfast
Optional activities available:
Snorkel in the calm estuary of Barra Bay, home to resident seahorses, during a guided 2-hour outing. (Includes transport)
Learn to surf the waves with experienced local instructors, tailored to your level.
A guided yoga and meditation session held on the beach.
Explore coastal dunes and surrounding villages on a guided off-road ride.
Ride along the shoreline or through coconut groves on a guided horseback experience.
Full list upon request
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16 November
Today begins with an early start as we travel south from Tofo on an approximately 8 hour journey to Maputo. From there, we cross Maputo Bay by boat to Inhaca Island, a place known for its remarkable marine and terrestrial biodiversity.
Once on the island, we’ll settle into the Marine Biology Research Station, located about 5 kilometers from the nearest village. Surrounded by nature, this remote setting offers a unique opportunity to fully immerse ourselves in the coastal ecosystems of Mozambique.
This will primarily be a travel day, giving us time to arrive, settle in, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. All meals are included today, and we will aim for a relaxed evening and an early night so we are well rested for the exciting diving and exploration ahead.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
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17 November
After breakfast, we head out for our first dives on the wrecks around Inhaca Island. Unlike the reef dives in Tofo, these sites feature fully diveable shipwrecks resting on sandy seabeds, creating a striking contrast in the underwater landscape. Over time, these wrecks have transformed into thriving artificial reefs, attracting a wide range of marine life and offering a fascinating glimpse into how nature reclaims these structures.
After the dives, we return to the station for lunch and some time to relax.
In the afternoon, we will gather for a reef survey briefing, where you will be introduced to the methods we will use to observe and document marine life on the reefs during the coming days.
This session will also include a briefing for the dives planned for the following day.
In the evening, we will come together for a traditional beach braai: a South African-style barbecue enjoyed by the ocean, with good food, great company, and the sound of the waves in the background.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
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18 November
During breakfast, we will have a final round of questions and a short refresher briefing before heading out to the reefs to begin our reef survey and fish identification dives. During these dives, you will help observe and record marine life, contributing valuable insights into the biodiversity of the reefs around Inhaca Island.
Once we return to the station, we will analyze the data together, discussing what we observed underwater and what it tells us about the health of the ecosystem. Afterwards, we will gather for lunch and some time to relax.
In the afternoon, we will explore another one of the region’s remarkable ecosystems as we kayak through the mangroves. These calm, sheltered waterways are incredibly important nurseries for marine life and provide a beautiful contrast to the offshore reefs.
Inhaca Island is also a birders’ paradise and during our mangrove kayak we may (if we are lucky) spot flamingos as we will be on the island at the end of their season.
In the evening, we will enjoy dinner together followed by a bonfire, sharing stories from the day under the stars.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
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19 November
On our final morning on Inhaca Island, we head back out to sea to explore more of the fascinating dive sites. Depending on conditions, these will either be wreck dives or deep reef dives.
After the dives, we return to the station for lunch and some time to relax and decompress.
Later in the afternoon, we will visit the Inhaca Marine Biology Museum, one of the oldest marine biology museums in the region. The museum houses a remarkable collection of historic marine specimens collected around the island, including some species that are rarely seen at such sizes today. It offers a fascinating glimpse into how local ocean ecosystems have changed over time.
The rest of the evening is yours to relax, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the next stage of our adventure, as we get ready to leave the island and head toward the incredible terrestrial wildlife of Kruger National Park.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
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20 November
Today we say goodbye to island life and the ocean as we journey inland toward one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations: Kruger National Park.
Renowned for its vast wilderness and incredible biodiversity, Kruger is home to the legendary Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo. As well as cheetah, African wild dogs, giraffe, countless antelope species, and an extraordinary diversity of birdlife.
Upon arrival, we will check into Elephant Walk Tented Camp, a unique tented lodge that offers a beautiful blend of luxury and wilderness.
Overlooking the Crocodile River, the camp provides front-row views of wildlife moving through the landscape, with elephants, hippos, and antelope often seen along the riverbanks.
Each spacious tent is fully air-conditioned and thoughtfully designed for elegant comfort under canvas, allowing you to experience the magic of the African bush while staying immersed in nature.
Depending on how the day unfolds with travel and the border crossing, we may have the opportunity to head out on a half-day safari. If timing is on our side, we will enter the park and start immersing ourselves in the wildlife and vast landscapes that make Kruger so iconic.
Meals: Brunch, High Tea, and Dinner
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21 November
Today is a full day immersed in the wilderness of Kruger National Park. We will head out on a full day of safari.
With a bit of luck, we may spot members of the Big Five, as well as many other iconic African species. Every drive is different, and part of the magic of safari is never knowing what might appear around the next bend.
Meals: Brunch, High Tea, and Dinner
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22 November
After a morning game drive, we say goodbye to Kruger National Park and begin our journey to Johannesburg, bringing our adventure through Mozambique and South Africa to its final chapter.
Once we arrive, we will check into the Garden Court Hotel in Sandton, where there will be time to unwind, freshen up, and relax after the journey. You might choose to enjoy some quiet time by the pool, reflect on the experiences of the past days, or simply catch up with fellow travellers.
In the evening, we will come together for one final dinner, a moment to share stories, laughter, and memories from the incredible journey we’ve shared.
It’s a chance to celebrate the adventure together before we say our final goodbyes the following morning.
No meals included
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23 November
After an unforgettable journey from the reefs of Mozambique to the wildlife of Kruger National Park, it’s time to say goodbye to the adventure, your fellow travelers, and the incredible places we’ve explored together.
We will drop you off at O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, ready for your journey home.
This itinerary is designed as a guideline to give you a clear sense of the flow and experiences of the trip. However, as we are working closely with nature, all dives, dive sites, and activities remain subject to change depending on weather conditions, ocean state, and logistical factors. We will always aim to provide the best and safest possible experience while adapting to the conditions at hand. We will always adapt in a way that keeps the experience both safe and as special as possible.
about tofo
Tofo is one of Mozambique’s most famous dive destinations, known for its rich marine life. November marks the start of the warm-water season, when plankton draws in ocean giants and the reefs come alive with activity.
about inhaca island
Inhaca Island lies just off the coast of Maputo and is known for its rich marine and terrestrial biodiversity, from coral reefs and mangroves to coastal forests. Home to a renowned Marine Biology Research Station, where we will be staying. It’s a place where diving, conservation, and exploration come together.
about
kruger national park
Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife reserves, known for its vast savannah landscapes and incredible biodiversity. Home to the legendary Big Five as well as hundreds of bird and mammal species, it offers one of the best safari experiences on the continent.
meet your host
Ráchelle, better known online as Tales of Odyssey, will be hosting you throughout this trip. As a storyteller, diver, and ocean enthusiast, she has built a platform around sharing the beauty of the underwater world and inspiring others to explore it with curiosity and respect.
During this journey, she will be hosting the experience and help create a trip that is not only adventurous, but also meaningful and memorable.
meet your operator & Guide
This trip is operated by Maputo Dive Center, a Mozambican-owned PADI 5-Star Dive Center based in Maputo. As a social enterprise, their mission is to protect Mozambique’s marine biodiversity by growing the community of Mozambican divers through world-class training and meaningful dive experiences.
Beyond guiding incredible dives, Maputo Dive Center invests in long-term impact through initiatives like their Zero to Hero Program, which trains members of coastal communities to become professional dive instructors, and by supporting marine biology students and conservation staff with scientific diving skills. Every dive with them contributes not only to adventure and learning, but also to the preservation of Mozambique’s extraordinary marine ecosystems.
WHERE YOU WILL BE STAYING
The accommodations are a curated mix of stays. From a coastal beach house and an off-grid marine biology research station to a luxury tented safari camp and a hotel. Each stay is chosen to reflect the spirit of its location and enhance your overall experience of the journey.
Rooms are shared with fellow travellers, unless a private room is requested in advance for an additional cost.
what is included?
Tofo
Group transfer from Vilanculous Airport to Tofo,
4 nights accommodation,
Welcome dinner and daily breakfasts,
3 double tank dives (6 dives total),
Dive cylinders and weights,
Conservation fees,
Group transport to Inhaca Island.
Inhaca Island
4 nights accommodation,
All meals,
3 double tank dives (6 dives total),
Dive cylinders and weights,
Reef survey theory session (underwater data collection and analysis),
Guided Mangrove Kayak excursion,
Guided Rocky Shores tours,
Guided visit to the Historic Marine Biology Museum,
Conservation fees,
Group transport to Kruger National Park.
Kruger National Park
2 nights accommodation in Luxury Tented Camp,
All meals,
Full day in Kruger National Park and potentially 2 half days safaris depending on time of arrival and departure.
Group transport to Johannesburg.
Johannesburg
1 night accommodation,
Group transfer to Johannesburg O.R. Tambo International Airport.
what is not?
Tofo
Full dive gear (available for rental for an extra fee),
Selection of additional activities (available upon request),
Meals outside of those previously mentioned.
Inhaca Island
Full dive gear (available for rental for an extra fee),
Johannesburg
Meals.
General
Single room supplement (if you require a single room in any of the locations, please request so, this will be for an additional charge),
Flights to and from Johannesburg O.R. Tambo International Airport,
Flight to Vilanculos (Vilankulo Airport),
Single room supplements,
Visas for Mozambique and South Africa,
Medical, travel, and dive insurance (mandatory),
Alcoholic beverages,
Gratituities,
Additional activities not listed.
Ready to dive into your Mozambique & south africa adventure?
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHICH AIRPORT SHOULD I FLY IN AND OUT OF?
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For the smoothest travel experience, we recommend flying into O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, South Africa. From there, you’ll take a connecting flight to Vilanculos.
From Vilanculos, we’ll arrange a group transfer to Tofo. At the end of the trip, a group transfer will take you from Sandton, Johannesburg, back to O.R. Tambo International Airport.
do i need a visa or any other travel documents?
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Please make sure to check the visa requirements for both Mozambique and South Africa well in advance of your trip, and arrange any necessary visas through your local embassy.
As we will be crossing a land border during the journey, it’s important that all required travel documents are prepared and easily accessible.
is dive gear included or available for rent?
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Weights and cylinders are included for all dives. If you require any additional diving equipment, this can be rented at an additional cost.
Please enquire with us during your booking for a full list of rental items and pricing.
WHAT DIVING CERTIFICATION SHOULD I HAVE?
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For this trip, you are required to be at least an Advanced Open Water diver.
We also expect everyone to have relevant medical, travel, and dive insurance.
what is the group size? And is this trip suitable
for solo travelers?
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You’ll be joining a small group of six other dive adventurers, along with your host and guide. This trip is designed for curious, open-minded divers who are excited to explore, learn more about each location, and connect with like-minded travellers.
It’s also a great fit for solo travelers. Having spent years travelling solo myself, I know how important it is to find your people along the way, and this trip creates plenty of space for that.
If you would prefer a private room during the trip, this can be arranged on request for an additional cost.
do you cater to dietary requirements?
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We will do our best to accommodate dietary requirements, including vegetarian and vegan options. Please let us know when booking if you have any specific needs or restrictions so we can make sure everything is taken care of.
how do i secure my spot?
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To start the booking process, simply fill out the booking form. Once we’ve received it, we aim to get back to you within 3 working days to go over the details, answer any questions, and check if you would like to add any extras.
The final booking and payment will be handled directly with the local operator/guide, who will guide you through the next steps.
is there a payment plan available?
8
To secure your spot, a 20% deposit is required upon booking confirmation.
A further 30% of the total amount is due 6 months before the trip (12 May 2026), with the remaining 50% due 2 months prior to departure (12 September 2026).
You’re also welcome to pay the full amount upfront if you prefer.
Payments will be handled directly through the operator.