Our trip to South Africa and Mozambique is a brand-new destination that we are opening for a small group of like-minded travelers. The trip is scheduled during one of the most remarkable weeks of the season, when several unique natural events coincide in the region.
At this time of year, the area experiences unusually clear water visibility, which is considered rare for these locations. Along the coastline, green sea turtles and loggerhead turtles hatch, while the waters around Sodwana are home to a large resident pod of bottlenose dolphins.
The ocean temperature reaches 29–30°C, allowing for comfortable time in the water without a wetsuit, although a lycra suit is recommended for protection from plankton.
Accommodation is organized in comfortable cottages with spacious common areas, located close to the key locations of the trip. These properties are usually booked several months in advance, but we were able to secure them early.
What awaits you:
An immersive program filled with freediving, land adventures, gastronomy, and relaxation in the company of like-minded people.
Freediving with dolphins
A large pod of bottlenose dolphins lives along the coast of Sodwana. We will have the opportunity to observe their behavior, hunting, and the way they teach their young, as well as interact and play with them in the water.
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Shark interaction course
Here, we can safely interact with different species of sharks. With the guidance of an experienced instructor and clear briefings, you may completely overcome any fear of sharks you might have.
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Freediving training
Breathwork, meditation, yoga, and in-water practice will all be part of our program.
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A new community and an atmosphere of trust
Our goal is to create a small group of active, open-minded people so that everyone feels comfortable, relaxed, and able to form genuine new connections.
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Diverse cuisine
We will cook together and try must-eat's of SA and Mozambique: braai and famous shrimps. We will as well visit cozy cafes with local cuisine.
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Travel Program
Each day is a combination of practice, adventure, and relaxation both on land and in the Indian Ocean.
February 1 — Arrival and group introduction
Arrival in Durban. Transfer and check-in at our cottage in Sodwana. It is recommended to arrive to Johannesburg the night before and take an early domestic flight to Durban.
February 2, 3, 4 — Dolphin encounters
We dive in Sodwana with a focus on dolphins, while also exploring the reefs and discovering whatever the ocean chooses to offer us — from schools of barracudas to oceanic manta rays. We will walk down to the beach to witness sea turtle hatchlings emerging, enjoy beautiful white wine, and watch the sunsets.
February 4 — Transfer to the Elephant Park
After our diving session, we transfer to Tembe National Reserve and check into the Elephant Park. We will have two game drives, each lasting around three hours. We’ll explore the reserve by jeep, searching for elephants, giraffes, antelopes, and lions. We will spend the night in the park camp in comfortable safari tents.
February 5 — Transfer to Mozambique
After a morning game drive and breakfast, we travel to Mozambique, cross the border, and settle into an ocean-view cottage on the hill. The rest of the day is for relaxation — we can organize a braai (South African barbecue) or visit local beach bars at sunset, although the best sunset view will likely be from our own cottage.
February 6 to 8 — Freediving in Mozambique
Encounters with sharks (bull sharks, blacktip sharks, hammerheads, tiger sharks) and dolphins. Before every session, we provide detailed safety briefings explaining exactly what to do and what to avoid. There is always an option to stay on the boat and simply observe from there.
February 9 — Departure and end of the tour
A calm morning, breakfast, and transfer to Maputo Airport (approximately 2 hours from Ponta do Ouro, where we will be staying).
Marine wildlife observation
We bring groups together in different locations, dive, and teach respectful interaction with the underwater world — dolphins, sperm whales, turtles, sharks, and other marine life.
Freediving for advanced participants
The program includes depth training sessions and is designed for those who are already familiar with us, freediving, and the underwater world.
Breathwork and meditation
Relaxing sessions help you adapt, reduce stress, and spend your vacation feeling restored, balanced, and fully recharged.
Learn more about the South Africa freediving journey
What is included in the price of the South Africa freediving trip
Car rental, transportation between locations, fuel, and toll roads
Accommodation in three locations (Sodwana, Tembe, and Ponta) in shared cottages, with single or double occupancy options
Boat and skipper services for 6 days
Buoy training sessions (depending on preference and conditions)
Guide fee
2 game drives and meals at Tembe Elephant Park
Picnic dinner by the lake
2 barbecue dinners (traditional braai prepared by our guide)
What is not included
Meals in Sodwana and Mozambique (except for the shared barbecue dinners). We will shop for groceries on arrival and may cook together or eat at affordable local cafés.
Rental of personal freediving equipment, if needed
Tips for skippers and guides
Your guides
Pete Botman
National Champion of the Netherlands, World Champion
5-time Masters World Champion (CMAS) 20-time Dutch National Champion AIDA and Molchanovs W3IT Instructor Trainer Has been teaching freediving for 13 years, working with all levels — from complete beginners to freediving instructors and competitive athletes. Share EQ instructor and first aid instructor Swimming instructor Loves playing the harmonica and is learning Russian
Olga Rodnova
National Record Holder (CMAS) and Russian Champion
Has been teaching freediving for 10 years AIDA Instructor Trainer, Molchanovs W3I Instructor Teaches all levels — from beginner freedivers to competitive athletes and instructors Competing since 2017 Share EQ instructor Organizer of journeys to dolphins, whales, and sharks
Tour price and booking conditions
Reservation deposit: €1500 Only 6 spots available Tour price with double occupancy: €4100 The remaining balance is to be paid in cash in euros on the first day of the trip