What to pack
For the trails, pack light. You'll always have access to your main bag, but on the walk you only carry a small daypack with water and snacks.
Essential kit
- 2 or 3 pairs of trail or running shoes
- 10 pairs of socks
- Light, quick-dry clothing suitable for walking and jogging — 5 sets for the Extreme, 3 sets for Family & Friends
- A light windbreaker, preferably waterproof. If yours isn't waterproof, bring two
- Sunscreen, Peaceful Sleep, Tabard (mosquitos)
- Comfortable sunglasses suitable for walking or running
- A small, light rucksack for daily walking — enough for 2 water bottles and a packet of snacks. Nothing big or excessive
Optional but useful
- A Camelbak or hydration pack (handy, not essential)
- Your own snorkel — we provide them, but some masks and mouthpieces are personal
- A peaked cap or wide-brim hat
- Swimwear (two sets — one always drying)
- Personal toiletries and any prescription medication
- A waterproof phone pouch
Health & safety
Malaria
Mozambique's south coast is a malaria area. The guides and support crew don't take prophylactic medication, but we're vigilant — long tracksuit pants in the evenings, Peaceful Sleep or Tabard, and every room and bed has mosquito nets. If you'd like to take prophylactic medication, we'll send you the recommended options so you can chat to your doctor before you travel.
Vaccinations
No other vaccinations required. Yellow fever certificate is needed if you're arriving from a yellow-fever-risk country.
Medical & emergency
We have direct communication with a doctor at all times, and a direct line to an emergency medivac helicopter based in Maputo for urgent airlift if it's ever needed. The closest hospitals are Manguzi (on the SA side) and Maputo.
Travel insurance — mandatory
Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation cover is non-negotiable. It's inexpensive and there's no reason not to have it. We'll need a copy of your policy before departure.
Money
Currency
South African rand (ZAR) and Mozambican metical (MT) both work on the ground. Most stops accept tap-and-pay card.
Card acceptance
| Package | Cards work on | Cash only |
|---|---|---|
| Extreme | Nights 1, 3, 4 + Santa Maria | Night 2 (Techobanine) |
| Family & Friends | Nights 1, 2 + Santa Maria | Other stops |
No ATMs along the way. There's a cashback facility in Santa Maria, but it's the only one. Bring some cash to be safe.
Tips & extras
All accommodation staff are covered in your trip price. We recommend bringing around R500 in cash for personal tips and incidentals.
Connectivity
Wifi is available at your arrival destination on night 0 (afternoon and evening). No wifi during the walking day. Wifi in the evenings at most stops on the trail — the one exception is Techobanine on the Extreme (night 1 of the walk).
If you want a fully off-grid escape, this is your sign — you'll get it.
Bringing your own vehicle
If you're driving to the Kosi Bay border, you'll need a few things prepared for crossing. We've put the full list, including the docs and stickers required, on the Visa & Entry page.
Got your dates in mind?
Send us an enquiry — we'll come back to you within 24 hours with a quote and answer any prep questions.
Enquire now