Elevate Destinations

Experts in socially responsible luxury travel. We design travel experiences that support conservation and local communities without skimping on comfort.

Rare: Trip to Mozambique

June 21 – 28, 2025

Join Rare on a transformative journey to Mozambique to experience a country whose people and way of life are deeply intertwined with the sea.

This highly-immersive 8-day trip will take you across land and sea. We will traverse the diverse landscapes of Maputo National Park, where vast plains, coastal dunes, mountain ranges, and swamps converge. Off Mozambique’s stunning coast, within the world’s second-most biodiverse marine region, we will dive beneath the surface and snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, bearing witness to their majesty and the climate change challenges they face.

Our journey continues with a visit to Ilha de Moçambique, a hauntingly beautiful island and UNESCO World Heritage site working to break free of its colonial past.

Along the way, we’ll meet inspiring coastal fishing communities partnering with Rare to protect and manage the resources that sustain millions. We’ll hear their stories of resilience, innovation, and the impact of community-led conservation.

Join us on this unforgettable expedition to witness the transformative power of these communities on the frontline of global biodiversity protection and climate resilience.

Please note: The details of this itinerary are subject to change and will be updated throughout the trip-planning process.

Itinerary

Day 1: Saturday, June 21
International Arrivals

Welcome to Mozambique! Arrive at Maputo International Airport (MPM) and enjoy a private transfer to your hotel.

Take time to relax and unwind before joining the group for a Welcome Dinner to mark the start of your exciting journey.

Overnight: Polana Serena

Day 2: Sunday, June 22
Maputo National Park by Land

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and embark on a scenic drive to Maputo National Park, a flourishing haven of Mozambique’s unique flora and fauna. Upon arrival, receive a special briefing from the park warden, followed by a thrilling game drive across diverse landscapes, where you will likely see elephants, giraffes, zebras and other big game animals. Lunch will be provided during the day.

Continue your adventure through the park’s stunning scenery in 4×4 vehicles, arriving at your beautiful beach-side accommodations, Ponta Membene. Check in and take time to unwind with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and its vibrant reefs. Enjoy a fresh seafood dinner at the resort’s restaurant.

Overnight: Ponta Membene

Day 3: Monday, June 23
Maputo National Park by Sea

Start your day with an early breakfast before heading up the coast for a diving or snorkeling expedition. Explore the mesmerizing underwater world of coral reefs, teeming with marine life.

Please note the following diving requirements. Elevate Destinations will request these documents closer to your trip.

  • Have medical insurance that covers extreme sports as scuba diving. This is not covered under standard medical insurance policies.
  • Provide your Physicians Certification Form before arrival and if you have any illnesses, you will need to be declared fit by a doctor in order to dive.
  • Provide a copy of your dive level/qualification and when you last did a dive.
  • If your last dive was longer than 12 months prior, you will need to take a refresher course before the trip.
  • Closer to the trip, Elevate Destinations will request your height, weight and shoe sizes to provide the dive company for your wet suit.

Enjoy a seaside lunch together before returning to Maputo. If time allows, meet with Rare representatives in the city or enjoy free time before regrouping for dinner.

Overnight: Polana Serena

Day 4: Tuesday, June 24
Travel to Ilha de Moçambique

Following breakfast, head to the airport and take a charter flight from Maputo to Nacala. Upon arrival, a private transfer will bring you to Ilha de Moçambique, a 3km-long UNESCO World Heritage Site home to 14,000 Mozambicans and rich in colonial history and culture. Lunch will be provided en route.

After checking in to your hotel, enjoy free time to explore the historic Stone Town. Reconnect in the evening for a group dinner at a local hotel.

Overnight: Feitoria & Villa Sands

Day 5: Wednesday, June 25
Ilha de Moçambique

Happy Independence Day, Mozambique!

Celebrate Mozambique’s Independence Day with the community. You’ll have the opportunity to engage with community leaders and government officials and witness Rare’s work in the region. Lunch will be provided during the day. There may be opportunities to participate in local festivities marking the country’s independence.

End the day with a serene dinner on the terrace, soaking up the spectacular views of the island.

Overnight: Feitoria & Villa Sands

Day 6: Thursday, June 26
Ilha de Moçambique

After breakfast, embark on a Dhow Sailing Safari to explore the surrounding islands that form the outer edge of the proposed Marine Protected Area (MPA), situated between Ilha de Moçambique and the nearby islands of Sete Paus and Goa. Snorkel the clear waters and enjoy a delicious barbecue lunch.

Later, return to the hotel to relax before a Fortress Tour and Sunset Cultural Festival at the 16th-century São Sebastião Fortaleza. Walk the fort’s ramparts with your guide. As the sun sets, take in sweeping views from the ramparts, followed by a festive evening of local, cultural dance performances over dinner.

Overnight: Feitoria & Villa Sands

Day 7: Friday, June 27
Travel to Maputo

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and depart for the drive back to Nacala. Then, take a charter flight back to Maputo. Upon your return, check in to your hotel and prepare for the “Rare Olympics” – a fun-filled afternoon of friendly competitions and activities.

In the evening, celebrate your journey with a private cocktail reception and a memorable farewell dinner, sharing stories and reflections from your time in Mozambique.

Overnight: Polana Serena

Day 8: Saturday, June 28
International Departures

Enjoy a final breakfast together at the hotel before checking out. You will have a private transfer to the airport for your departure, based on your individual flight time. Those of you who are joining the Extension to Rwanda will travel together to Kigali.

For more information about this incredible journey to Mozambique with Rare, or to extend your travels with a Gorilla Trek to Rwanda, be sure to visit the following pages:

Pricing & Registration
Pre-Departure Information
Health & Safety
Destination Information
Extension to Rwanda
About Elevate Destinations