South Africa & Mozambique

Cape Town, South Africa | Late August

• Kensington Place

Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve, South Africa | Late August - Early September

• Dulini Moya

Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique | Early September

• andBeyond Benguerra Island

If you need any assistance while you are traveling, or if you would like to make any changes, reservations or cancellations during your time in South Africa & Mozambique you can contact the following who will be your local contacts during your trip:

DESTINATION

• +27 21 686 3788 (Office Hours)
  
• +27 83 822 1420 (After Hours)

Scenset

• Your Curator: will be provided | will be provided
  
• Your Traveler Relations Rep: will be provided | will be provided
  
• Scenset Emergency Line: will be provided

Important: Due to the time difference, for small day-to-day things like touring and dining reservations - or emergencies that need immediate assistance - it will be most efficient for you to use the local contacts as they are in the same time zone as you.

WhatsApp: If you don’t have WhatsApp on your phone, we strongly encourage downloading it for free as it makes contacting our local team easier.

At the end of August/ beginning of September, Cape Town typically experiences cool weather as it nears the end of its winter rainy season. Temperatures usually range from around 10°C (50°F) to 18°C (64°F), with some rain showers. The weather can be unpredictable, so it's wise to be prepared for both rain and chilly conditions.

In September, Sabi Sands Game Reserve experiences warm and dry weather as it transitions from winter to spring. Daytime temperatures typically range from 15°C (59°F) in the early morning to around 30°C (86°F) in the afternoon. Nights and early mornings can be cooler, but the overall weather is generally pleasant with clear skies, making it an excellent time for wildlife viewing.

The Bazaruto Archipelago in Mozambique enjoys warm and pleasant weather in September. Temperatures typically range from 20°C (68°F) in the early morning to around 28°C (82°F) during the day. The weather is generally dry, with low humidity and minimal rainfall.

South Africa

• No tourist visa is required for visits of 90 days or less. Your passport must be valid for at least 30 days after your intended departure date from South Africa, and you will need at least 2 consecutive blank visa pages per entry (excluding endorsement pages).
  
• Please see up-to-date information here on the U.S. State Department's website.

Mozambique

• No tourist entry visa is required for travelers not staying with a citizen or resident of Mozambique (e.g., hotels, guesthouses, or lodges). A tourist visa is required for those visiting a citizen or resident of Mozambique.
  
• Travelers from visa-exempt countries for leisure travel can obtain single-entry border visas on arrival. Please ensure you have cash to pay the visa processing fee. We suggest bringing a sufficient amount of cash in small denominations for contingencies.
  
• Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your entry date into Mozambique, and you will need at least 2 consecutive blank visa pages for entry/exit stamps.
  
• Please see up-to-date information here on the U.S. State Department's website.

These guidelines are for reference only. Scenset holds no responsibility for travel restrictions. Travelers are responsible for ensuring the right documentation to travel.

Mozambique’s currency is the new Metical (MZM) or plural Meticais, pronounced “meta-caysh”, divided into 100 centavos. Old Metical notes are no longer accepted. South African Rand and US Dollars are also accepted in many places but only use the latest series of US Dollar notes with the large presidential portraits.

All extras to be paid at Mozambique resorts are charged in US Dollars and these are also widely accepted within the camps for tipping purposes ¬– take small denomination notes. Most resorts and lodges accept all credit cards. VAT is currently at 17%.

Tips are always appreciated and enthusiastically received. Tipping is only recommended if you are satisfied with the service you have received and is entirely at your discretion. Tipping guidelines are as follows:

• Airport or hotel porters: A tip per bag is recommended.
  
• Transfers: tips not expected
  
• Day Tours: A tip per person for a full day tour is recommended.
  
• Restaurants: 10% of the total bill depending on service

We have put together this Destination Guide for you, full of unique insights and ways to get excited before you travel, such as:

• Spotify playlists
  
• Movies to watch
  
• Books to read
  
• Dishes to try
  
• Helpful phrases
  
• Packing guide
  
• Tipping guides

Plus more!

• Scenset's Guide to South Africa

Welcome to South Africa!

You will be met at the door of your aircraft upon arrival at Cape Town International Airport (CPT). Alternatively, if you deplane on the tarmac, you will be transported to the terminal by bus where you'd meet your representative as you step off the bus.

If you have any issues locating your airport representative, please call the numbers that will be provided.

Booked by Scenset

You will then be assisted through fast-track immigration, baggage collection and customs and on to the arrivals hall to meet your private driver for a transfer to your hotel.

• Meeting time: Early afternoon
  
• Meeting point: Arrivals hall
  
• Duration: Around 25 minutes
  
• Contact: If you have any issues locating your driver, please call will be provided or will be provided.

Booked by Scenset

Check in to your accommodation.

Spacious and elegantly decorated, designed to stimulate your senses and indulge your desire for relaxation. Fully equipped for the purpose of making you feel pampered and special. All Superior rooms are fitted with a King Size extra length bed, WiFi, LCD flat screen TV, hairdryer, safe and gorgeous herbal toiletries. Room balconies offer wonderful panoramic views of the garden, the mountain or city landscape. Room service is available 24 hours a day, and you’re welcome to have your freshly prepared complimentary breakfast delivered to your room.

Tonight, dine at The Pot Luck Club.

• Time: Evening
  
• Booked under name: will be provided
  
• Number of people: 2
  
• Address: The Old Biscuit Mill, 375 Albert Road, Woodstock, Cape Town
  
• Phone: +27 021 447 0804
  
• Cancellation Policy: A full refund of your deposit will be given for any cancellation or modification made no later than 24 hours prior to your booking.
  
• The restaurant is a short drive from your hotel. Please call a ride-sharing service or arrange a taxi with the hotel's Front Desk to get there.

Booked by Scenset.

• Superior Room
  
• Inclusions: Daily breakfast

Booked by a user

Your time in Cape Town is at leisure. Below are a few suggestions of things to do and see around this picturesque coastal city.

A short boat cruise to Robben Island, just over seven km's from Cape Town harbour, you can experience a sense of hopelessness inside the prison cell where South Africa's most beloved legend spent 27 years hard labour. It is difficult to imagine how anyone could rise above the horror of incarceration to become arguably the most iconic and compassionate leader of our era.

You may confirm this experience independently on this website.

This is a recommendation only.

An exciting trip up Table Mountain in a cable car provides panoramic views over the "Mother City" and other attractions include the Social History Center, Zeitz Mocaa, the Castle of Good Hope, and the world-renowned Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Greenmarket Square's local crafts markets and the Bo-Kaap's colourful Cape Malay buildings add a sense of authenticity to your trip, and Long Street's vibrant restaurants, bars and clubs come alive after dark. Perhaps wander around the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, a working harbour and hub of entertainment and shopping opportunities.

This is a recommendation only.

Tonight, dine at La Colombe.

• Time: Evening
  
• Booked under name: will be provided
  
• Number of people: 2
  
• Address: Silvermist Wine Estate, Main Road, Constantia Nek, Cape Town
  
• Phone: +27 021 794 2390
  
• Cancellation Policy: Should you cancel your booking at least 48 hours in advance, the restaurant will refund the full deposit.
  
• The restaurant is about a half-hour drive from your hotel. Please call a ride-sharing service or arrange a taxi with the hotel's Front Desk to get there.

Booked by Scenset

• Superior Room
  
• Inclusions: Daily breakfast

Booked by someone

Below are some of our favorite wineries in the area of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. The concierge at your hotel in Cape Town will also have suggestions to pass along as to which wineries you can visit during your day exploring the winelands.

Babylonstoren
The historic Cape Dutch Babylonstoren Farm, boasts one of the best preserved farmyards in the Cape. The magnificent gardens are divided into sections that consist of organic fruits, vegetables, and indigenous plants. Every aspect of Babylonstoren is led by the ever-changing tapestry and botanical diversity of the garden. Their luxurious wines are produced in a state-of-the-art winery and are made to showcase the soils and climate of where the grapes are grown. The wine tasting room sits adjacent to the wine cellar, offering majestic views of the Babylonstoren Hill and Simonsberg Mountains.

They have a variety of wine tasting options to choose from. Their wine cellar tours include a tasting of all their wines and are accompanied by tasty treats. This glorious wine farm doesn’t just offer wine tasting, but boasts a wide variety of activities for the whole family. The Babylonstoren farm offers various accommodation options which include a stay in their hotel, farmhouse, garden cottages or family houses. This is where rich history meets modern elegant living.

Boschendal
Established in 1685, Boschendal is one of the oldest wine farms in South Africa. Nestled in one of the most picturesque valleys in the Cape with a wine-making tradition spanning over 330 years, our farm offers an array of activities for visitors to enjoy and explore. Today, Boschendal is a Cape Winelands icon and an acclaimed wine and food destination. The vineyards and fruit trees have been joined by vegetable gardens and a growing herd of pasture-raised Black Angus cattle all reflecting our commitment to regenerative farming, sustainability and serving wholesome farm-to-table food.

Klein Goederust
Klein Goederust came about in 1905. In 2019 the Siguqa family acquired the farm and so began their winemaking journey, inspired by the family matriarch, a lifelong Cape wine farm laborer.

The restoration of the two historical buildings has been done in such a way that it exposes the attraction of the original building and by bringing in their modern finishes with leathers, wood and glass it forms a true harmony between the old and new.

Mullineux & Leeu at Leeu Estates
All curated tastings at each respective venue are presented by dedicated hosts who will guide guests through the finer nuances of these premium handcrafted wines and share their knowledge of new vintage releases or special cuvees. There are three tutored tasting options available to choose from at The Wine Studio at Leeu Estates: The Mullineux Signature tasting (one complimentary tasting per Leeu Estates guest per stay), the Mullineux Single Terroir tasting, and the Leeu Passant tasting. To avoid disappointment, it is advisable to book in advance.

Thistle & Weed
Thistle and Weed is a collaboration between the Terblanche and Wiid families established in 2015, led by Etienne Terblanche (Viticulturist) and Stephanie Wiid (Winemaker).

Inspired by the encroaching weeds found amongst the vines grown in the Cape, they draw parallels between thistles and weeds and the uncompromising tenacity and survival skills of grapevines.

Together, they set out to discover the best of the Cape’s hidden gems, intent on crafting honest wines that are made with a deep connection to nature and offer the most simple expression of the terroir from which they come.

Dinner this evening is at your leisure. Feel free to speak with the concierge at your hotel if you are looking for casual dinner recommendations in the area.

• Superior Room
  
• Inclusions: Daily breakfast

Booked by a guest.

Tonight, dine at Kloof Street House.

• Time: Evening
  
• Booked under name: will be provided
  
• Number of people: 2
  
• Address: 30 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town
  
• Phone: +27 021 423 4413
  
• Cancellation Policy: As a courtesy, please let the restaurant know of your cancellation at least 24 hours prior to your reservation.
  
• The restaurant is a short drive from your hotel. Please call a ride-sharing service or arrange a taxi with the hotel's Front Desk to get there.

Booked by Scenset.

• Superior Room
  
• Inclusions: Daily breakfast

Booked by someone.

Meet your driver for a private transfer to Cape Town Airport (CPT) for your domestic flight.

• Meeting Time: Morning
  
• Meeting Point: Hotel lobby
  
• Contact: If you have any issues locating your driver, please call will be provided or will be provided.

Booked by Scenset.

You may access your airline tickets below:

• E-Ticket
  
• E-Ticket

Upon arrival, you will be met by your driver after proceeding through baggage claim in the arrivals hall for a private transfer to the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve. As you approach the reserve, be sure to look out for your first glimpses of wildlife!

• Meeting time: In the afternoon
  
• Meeting point: Arrivals hall
  
• Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes
  
• Contact: If you have any issues locating your driver, please call will be provided or will be provided

Booked by Scenset

Check in to your accommodation.

Each of the six luxury suites at Dulini Moya is decorated in a timeless blend of classic safari charm and indulgent comfort, offering a private haven of peace and serenity overlooking the Mabrak River. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the suites with natural light and bushveld views, allowing you to enjoy this remarkable and picturesque Big Five wilderness, from the comfort of your suite, patio, or private plunge pool.

• Suite
  
• Inclusions: All meals, local drinks, tea & coffee, scheduled safari activities, refreshments on game drives, nature walks accompanied by experienced armed trackers (subject to availability), transfers to and from the lodge airstrip, laundry

Booked by someone.

Spend your days rising early and heading out into the bush, searching for signs of animal activities from the night before. Most predators hunt in the dark and it is in the early hours of the morning that you may come across lions on a buffalo kill or a leopard up in a tree with its prey. You'll stop for refreshing coffee breaks and a chance to listen to the sounds of the bush whilst admiring the landscape. You will return to camp when it starts getting too hot for both the animals and you to be out in the blazing African sun, and after a generous brunch it’s time to relax. Cool off in the pool, read a book or enjoy a massage.

In the late afternoon it’s time to head out with your guide and tracker again, and as the light changes in order to welcome another magical African sunset, it is time for that wonderful bush tradition; a sundowner! Your guide will stop at a scenic spot and serve up a chilled glass of wine or a gin & tonic from the cooler box. As the stars begin to blanket the sky, you will make your way back to camp where dinner awaits you. Once your tummy is satisfied, head back to your room and enjoy the rest of your evening listening to the sounds of the bush.

You'll coordinate and confirm your game drives directly with your hotel.

• Suite
  
• Inclusions: All meals, local drinks, tea & coffee, scheduled safari activities, refreshments on game drives, nature walks accompanied by experienced armed trackers (subject to availability), transfers to and from the lodge airstrip, laundry

Booked by a client.

After a morning game drive and breakfast, meet your driver for a private transfer to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP).

• Meeting time: In the morning
  
• Meeting point: Hotel lobby
  
• Duration: Approximately 2 hours
  
• Contact: If you have any issues locating your driver, please call will be provided or will be provided

Booked by Scenset

You may access your airline tickets below:

• E-Ticket
  
• E-Ticket

Once at Vilanculos Airport, make your way through passport control, immigration and collect your luggage. Next, move on to the arrivals hall where a representative will be waiting to meet and guide you to your helicopter transfer to Benguerra Island.

• Meeting time: Afternoon
  
• Meeting point: Arrivals hall
  
• Duration: 10 minutes
  
• Contact: If you have any issues locating your representative, please call will be provided.

Booked by Scenset

Check in to your accommodation.

The cabanas are set under local thatch, amongst a lush island forest. Each is decorated with distinct African items, with a subtle nod to the archipelago’s Portuguese historic influence. The ensuite bathroom features an outdoor shower, perfect for balmy Benguerra days. The cabanas offer private timber decks and cool rim flow pools. There is also a private sala with a hanging daybed, as well as your own sun loungers situated on the beach

• Cabana
  
• Inclusions: Three meals daily, soft drinks, house wines, local brand spirits and beers, teas and coffees, laundry, emergency medical evacuation insurance, VAT
  
• Activities included: Scuba diving – maximum 2 dives per day (full PADI certification required and tide-dependent), horseback riding (85kg weight restriction), sea kayaking, sunset dhow cruise, scheduled snorkelling trip, castaway picnic, paddle boarding and local village tour (subject to availability and weather conditions).

Booked by a guest

Benguerra Island is bordered in the East by the Indian Ocean and the warm Benguela current, which flows southwards from the equator. Great winter weather, warm waters (rarely below 20 degrees) and a plethora of mostly unspoiled beaches, makes for an ideal year round beach destination. The Indian Ocean has nearly one third of the world’s coral reefs and these lie protected in marine reserves including within the Bazaruto archipelago.

You have been confirmed for the following couple's massage treatment on behalf of Scenset:

Soul of the Earth Celebration

• Time: To be confirmed on-property during check-in with the Front Desk
  
• Date: September 5th
  
• Treatment: 2x Full Body & Scalp
  
• Duration: 90 minutes

Booked by Scenset.

There is much to do and see during your time on Benguerra Island. Below are just a few experiences that can be arranged for your time at andBeyond.

The below are suggestions only. Please feel free to coordinate with the concierge team at andBeyond to schedule any activities that you are interested in.

Feel as though you have the island all to yourself as you indulge in a decadent picnic set in one of the most secluded sites on the Bazaruto Archipelago. Revel in magnificent sea views from the sand spit that daringly juts out into the ocean and lounge on the peak of soaring sand dunes, romantically set up for an idyllic picnic. Delight in fare that is sure to tantalise your taste buds with a vast assortment of hors d’oeuvres, appetisers and local delicacies.

Choose from South Point Bazaruto or North Point Benguerra, gently evoking feelings of being a castaway on a dreamy deserted island. Kick up your heels and lounge on satiny sands with 360 degree views of the ocean vista and the frolicking dolphins below. Relish a languid afternoon picnic in exquisite natural surroundings. South Point Bazaruto is an ideal spot to relax after thrilling dives or on a meandering sunset cruise. The North Point Benguerra Castaway Picnic will have you reclining on a sandy spit with unparalleled views of a wild, frothing ocean with short waves on one side and a calm bay with mirror-like waters on the other. Explore the clean coastline over miles, treasure hunt for rippled seashells, encounter the almost translucent ghost crab and marvel at the ebony and candy floss colored wings of the elegant flamingo. Soak in the temperate, aquamarine waters of the Indian Ocean, brilliantly illuminated by the warmth of the African sun.

This is a recommendation only. Please coordinate experiences with the concierge team at andBeyond.

Hop aboard a traditional dhow, a wooden vessel with a triangular sail, used for fishing by the island’s locals. A welcoming local skipper will collect you from your casita or cabana in the late afternoon, embarking on an unforgettable cruise around the azure bay. The sailing adventure presents the Island and its surrounding waters in a unique light, from the perspective of one of the island’s fishermen, and thus offers excellent photographic opportunities of the wide horizon, the calm waters and the glowing horizon.

Watch the sun set over the islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago as you drift along the calm water, guided by ocean breezes. Witness the cerulean sky rapidly change colour, embracing hues of rose and violet spread over an amber canvas. Marvel at the illuminated water, dancing with gold shimmers, as it welcomes the sun’s descent beneath the distant horizon. The scenset plays out beautifully and the ocean swallows the golden orb into its infinite depths. Travel back to the shore, accompanied by the quiet swoosh of the dhow’s sail, lost in the kaleidoscope of an African sunset.

This is a recommendation only. Please coordinate experiences with the concierge team at andBeyond.

Ideally situated in a protected marine conservation area and home to Africa’s only population of the rare dugong, &Beyond Benguerra Island offers exceptional diving opportunities. The island boasts outstanding topaz reefs, perfectly and naturally preserved for diving enthusiasts. The surrounding reefs are home to ageless turtles that glide through the deep waters and nest on the deserted outer shores of the islands. Migrating whales of colossal mass and presence, curious dolphins and the elusive and endangered dugong romp these warm, inviting waters. Alongside a wide variety of reef species, a large population of spear-bill marlin, steel grey sailfish and tuna thrives on these reefs.

&Beyond Benguerra Island has a fully equipped Dive Centre, offering a full range of diving adventures that suit the preferences of every guest. Based on guests’ diving experiences and specific interests, instructors will select the most appropriate dive, each of them sure to satisfy and enthral. Proficient divers can accompany the Dive Master into the depths of the Bazaruto Archipelago, awash with the secrets of the Indian Ocean and its aquatic residents, whilst novice divers, under the guidance of Dive Instructors will be introduced to a whole new world of mystery, wonder and beauty.

There are a number of choice dive sites available to willing guests, such as the main dive site at Two Mile Reef, saturated with iridescent fish that glow in the clear, warm waters. Trips to 5 Mile Reef, 9 Mile Reef, San Sebastian, and Margaruque Island can also be arranged with Dive Instructors.

Exciting scuba diving adventures are available any time of the day and are not tide dependant. Expert guides can provide lessons in the pool and equipment, as well as guide you to the best diving spots. We do recommend refresher courses to those who have dived before, and are eager to explore the depths of this aquamarine paradise, immersed in the clearest Indian Ocean waters.

This is a recommendation only. Please coordinate experiences with the concierge team at andBeyond.

Equine enthusiasts of all ages, and riding levels, will have the memorable opportunity to enjoy a fun-filled Swimming with Horses adventure, on &BEYOND Benguerra Island. Dress down for the occasion, in just your swimwear, and ride bareback into azure waters, gently striding into the warm waters of the Indian Ocean on top of your mount.

Expect splashing, and the occasional grunt of pleasure from your horse as it wades into the calm waters surrounding the lodge. Afterwards, hop off your steed and allow them to enjoy a well-deserved roll on the beach.

This 30 to 45 minute adventure allows for a maximum of 4 guests per swim and is perfect as a standalone activity or can be added after a more extensive horseback exploration of the island. The Swimming with Horses activity is seasonal as well as weather and tide dependent.

This is a recommendation only. Please coordinate experiences with the concierge team at andBeyond.

Island expeditions are fully tailored and customised to accommodate your personal interests and preferences. Explore the azure lakes and creamy sand dunes on the northern side of the island, stroll among the pews of the resident church, and interact with the native Mozambican people in their vibrant thatch and straw village.

Climb atop golden sand dunes, and quaff cocktails as the sun sets and the skies transform from bright peach to inky black. Relish a delicious dip in the ocean and as you crash against the waves, marvel at the towering Casuarina trees plunging into the shore. Cast your eye to the leafy branches and spot an Osprey, this specialist fish eater is a common sight, soaring over shorelines, patrolling waterways, and standing on their huge stick nests, white heads gleaming. Venture to the north western part of the island, to seek out Green Malkoha and sightings of the shy Suni antelope. Indulge in fresh, scrumptious fruit and vegetables from local farmers.

A fascinating excursion to the community centre, Centro Cumunitario Kanhe Kwedo reveals a wonderful community initiative where women delve into their entrepreneurial creative spirit and create beautiful beaded items, and men practice conservation initiatives.

Each drive is accompanied by a local guide with extensive knowledge of the island, its rich history and animated fauna and flora. Guides are dedicated to ensuring you are treated to an authentic local experience, teeming with culture and African flavour. Benguerra Island is awash with soaring sand dunes that shimmer under the golden sun, illuminating freshwater lakes that rival the azure ocean with their deep blue hues and inquisitive crocodiles. Marvel at the colourful vegetation peppered throughout the island, picture perfect in its lustrous presence and inhabited with the silhouettes of tiny rainbow-like birds and candy-floss flamingos. Stroll across the infinite stretch of unspoilt shore, in clear view of the vast ocean and admire the streaks of pink and amber in the sky before savouring a delectable picnic spread, served al fresco on unblemished, satiny sand.

This is a recommendation only. Please coordinate experiences with the concierge team at andBeyond.

• Cabana
  
• Inclusions: Three meals daily, soft drinks, house wines, local brand spirits and beers, teas and coffees, laundry, emergency medical evacuation insurance, VAT
  
• Activities included: Scuba diving – maximum 2 dives per day (full PADI certification required and tide-dependent), horseback riding (85kg weight restriction), sea kayaking, sunset dhow cruise, scheduled snorkelling trip, castaway picnic, paddle boarding and local village tour (subject to availability and weather conditions).

Booked by a client

After your final day at leisure on Benguerra Island, you will be transferred to Vilanculos Airport in good time for your international flight back to Johannesburg. You will need to make your way to the Airlink check-in counter for your flight to Johannesburg.

• Meeting time: Meeting time will be advised by property management, please speak to the front desk to confirm departure time
  
• Duration: 10 minutes
  
• Contact: *If you have any issues, please speak to the hotel front desk or call them on +27 11 809 4300

Booked by Scenset

You may access your airline tickets below:

• E-Ticket
  
• E-Ticket

After disembarking at Johannesburg Airport you will be met by your airport representative at the plane, who will have a sign with your name on it. They will assist you through immigration, luggage collection, customs, and take you to your check-in counter for your flight to Frankfurt. Once checked in, you will also be assisted through security and passport control to your next boarding gate.

If you have any issues locating your airport representative, please call will be provided or will be provided.

Booked by Scenset

Upon arrival in Johannesburg, you will need to retrieve your luggage and check in at the airline ticket counter for your next flight.