1 / 2🇲🇿 Mozambique
Save River
Elevation
120 m
Ideal stay
4 days
Nearest airport
Vilanculos Airport (VNX), 280 km south; Gaza/Chokwe regional airstrip (seasonal charter flights), 180 km west
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1 / 2Elevation
120 m
Ideal stay
4 days
Nearest airport
Vilanculos Airport (VNX), 280 km south; Gaza/Chokwe regional airstrip (seasonal charter flights), 180 km west
Nearest town: Chokwe, 180 km west — regional hub with basic services and fuel; Vilanculos, 280 km south — coastal town with accommodation and international flight connections
Save River visits typically cost $150–$250 per person per day, including game drives, accommodation, and meals at lodge-based safari camps. Park entry fees are minimal or included in lodge rates. Multi-day packages (4–7 days) range from $1,200–$2,500 per person depending on lodge category and operator. Budget operators offer lower rates; luxury camps charge $300+ daily. Compare packages through verified operators on SafariFind to find options within your budget.
November to March (wet season) offers the most reliable river flow, concentrated wildlife, and peak bird arrivals—ideal for photography and sightings. However, roads are rough and require 4WD. June to August (dry season) provides easiest access, lower visitor numbers, and excellent game viewing as animals congregate at remaining water sources. July–October is peak tourist season with the best road conditions. Choose wet season for water-dependent wildlife; dry season for accessibility.
Save River hosts African elephants (herds of 20–50), buffalo, hippos, Nile crocodiles, and predators including lions and hyenas. Over 200 bird species including African fish eagles, storks, and whistling ducks are present, especially November–March. Waterbuck, impala, and spotted hyenas are common. The region is part of a broader wildlife corridor; sightings vary by season and water availability. Wet season concentrations are highest around river channels and floodplain pools.
Fly into Vilanculos Airport (VNX), 280 km south, or use regional charter flights to Gaza/Chokwe airstrip (180 km west). From Vilanculos, drive 6–8 hours via EN1 highway; from Chokwe, 3–4 hours on secondary roads. Most visitors book package safaris that include transfers from international airports in Maputo or Johannesburg. 4WD vehicle is essential, especially November–April when roads are soft or flooded.
Save River safaris are suitable for children ages 8 and older. Most lodges welcome families and offer child-friendly activities including daytime game drives and walking safaris with guides who adjust pace for younger visitors. Infants and very young children are at higher malaria risk; consult a travel doctor before bringing children under 5. Lodges typically provide family rooms and high chairs. Discuss child-specific activities and safety protocols with your operator when booking.
Plan 4–5 days minimum to experience Save River's seasonal wildlife patterns and river ecosystems. This allows 2–3 full game drives, evening activities, and flexibility for weather or road conditions. 7–10 days is ideal for combining Save River with nearby parks like Gonarezhou (Zimbabwe border) or coastal wetlands. Shorter 2–3 day visits are possible but limit sighting variety. Multi-day packages maximize wildlife encounters and photography opportunities.
Lodge-based safaris are the primary accommodation option in the Save River region. Options range from budget eco-lodges ($80–$150/night) to mid-range safari camps ($150–$250/night) to luxury all-inclusive resorts ($300+/night). Most lodges sit on river overlooks with permanent water access. Camping is available at some operators' sites but requires self-sufficiency. Book through verified operators on SafariFind to compare amenities, reviews, and inclusive packages that combine lodging, meals, and game drives.
Save River is worth visiting if you seek authentic river-based wildlife experiences with fewer crowds than major parks. The seasonal river dynamics create dramatic wildlife concentrations during dry months and lush bird activity during wet season. The landscape is less crowded than northern Tanzania or Botswana, offering more intimate guide interactions and photography. However, accessibility is limited (4WD required), and sightings depend heavily on season and water levels. Best suited for experienced safari-goers comfortable with rustic lodge conditions and variable road access.
A licensed guide is required for all game drives and walking safaris in the Save River region. Guides are familiar with animal behavior, seasonal patterns, and safety protocols. Self-drive safaris are not permitted. Your operator will assign an English-speaking guide (other languages available on request). Guides enhance sightings through tracking skills and wildlife knowledge. Book through verified operators on SafariFind to ensure your guide is licensed and experienced with the Save River ecosystem.
Compare safari packages, read verified traveler reviews, and book through trusted operators on SafariFind.com. This lets you compare prices, lodge options, and itineraries tailored to your budget and interests. You can filter by accommodation type, duration, and included activities. Contact operators directly through SafariFind for custom itineraries, group discounts, or specific travel dates. Most bookings require a deposit (20–50%) with balance due 30 days before travel.
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