Road Tripping from Joburg to Mozambique’s Cowboy Town

Hey there! So, you’re itching for a little adventure, huh? Well, have I got the perfect road trip for you! Picture this: you, the open road, and a journey from Joburg to Mozambique’s very own cowboy town. How’s that sound?

Now, before we hit the road, I want to share the lowdown on why this trip is a must. So, let’s dive in, shall we?

First things first, let’s talk about Mozambique’s cowboy town. It’s this little gem called Barra do Dande. Now, I don’t know about you, but the idea of a cowboy town in Mozambique sure takes me by surprise! I mean, who would’ve thought, right?

Barra do Dande is a place where time seems to stand still. You’ll find dusty roads, traditional cowboy attire, and an undeniable frontier charm. It’s like stepping into a time machine and being transported to the Wild West – Mozambique style!

But Barra do Dande isn’t the only reason to embark on this road trip. Oh, no! Along the way, you’ll encounter breathtaking landscapes that will make your jaw drop. From rolling hills to vast plains, nature will be your ever-present companion on this adventure.

And speaking of companions, let’s not forget about the people you’ll meet along the way. Mozambican locals are some of the warmest, friendliest folks you’ll ever come across. Their smiles will light up your day, and their stories will touch your heart.

Now, I know what you’re thinking – “How do I even get started on this epic road trip?” Well, worry not, my friend! I’ve got your back with some handy tips.

Firstly, ensure your trusty steed (aka your car) is up to the task. Get it checked by a mechanic, top up the fluids, and make sure those tires are in tip-top shape. Safety first, you know?

Next, pack light but smart. You’ll want to bring your essentials like clothes, toiletries, and of course, a good old road trip playlist. But don’t bring the kitchen sink! Remember, the journey is the destination, so leave some room for spontaneity.

And finally, embrace the unknown. This is an adventure, after all! Allow yourself to get lost in the moment, discover hidden gems, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

So, my fellow road warrior, are you ready to hit the highway and experience the wonders of Mozambique’s cowboy town? I thought so! Buckle up, my friend – the road awaits!

Hey there, let me tell you about Inhambane, a Mozambique holiday town that South Africans absolutely adore. I recently took a road trip to this delightful destination and discovered some unexpected gems along the way.

If you’re looking for an off-road adventure from El Paso to the EN1, I’ve got the perfect solution for you. The journey can be quite exhausting, but there’s a way to make it more enjoyable and break up the trip. My girlfriend Claire and I discovered a fantastic route that takes you through scenic landscapes and allows you to explore more of Mozambique along the way. Let me share our experience with you:

A Shortcut to Paradise

Sun, sea, and vibrant cultural attractions await you in Inhambane – a popular holiday destination for South Africans. The city offers incredible experiences like diving with manta rays and whale sharks, dhow trips, and exploring aromatic markets. However, the long drive on the EN1 can be tiring and monotonous. To avoid exhaustion, Claire and I decided to take a different route and discovered a hidden gem.

By using a ring road that bypasses the bustling Maputo traffic, we were able to reach our first slice of paradise in just six hours. The scenic beauty of the landscapes surrounding the road made the journey even more captivating. Here’s how we did it:

Our first stop was the Macaneta Peninsula, an easy drive from Joburg and a popular weekend getaway for the people of Maputo, just 40 kilometers north. We had also heard about El Paso, a unique “cowboy resort.” When we turned off the main road, our GPS surprised us by saying, “In 500 meters, take the ferry.” I didn’t know GPS devices could say that! And sure enough, as we rounded the corner, we saw a worn-out, rusty ferry emitting smoke, slowly approaching the shore with cars on board. While we waited to get on, we purchased delicious fresh prawns and ice-cold beers from friendly vendors in the parking area. The ferry crossing was a bit nerve-wracking due to its poor condition, but thankfully, nothing eventful happened.

Once I arrived safely on land, I embarked on a short 15-minute journey along a dusty path, guided by the signs leading to El Paso. The path meandered through quaint villages and thickets, gradually giving way to a sandy terrain. While it’s still possible to traverse this road with a sedan, it is advisable to opt for a vehicle with higher ground clearance.

El Paso itself is a charming recreation of a classic Wild West town. The streets are lined with creosoted wooden structures adorned with fascinating relics of the past, such as wagon wheels and unique antiques. As I strolled along the verandas, I couldn’t help but notice the presence of horses, adding to the old-world charm.

The highlight of my visit to El Paso was undoubtedly the rustic bar. Complete with traditional swing doors and bar stools cleverly crafted from horse saddles, it exuded an authentic Wild West ambiance. It was the perfect setting to savor my very first 2M beer, truly encapsulating the essence of Mozambique.

I had the amazing opportunity to live out my Wild West dreams in Southern Mozambique, guided by El Paso riding expert and stable manager, Marzaan Jansen Vuuren. The folks there were incredibly friendly, overlooking my less-than-perfect cowboy accent and instead sharing valuable advice on where to stay and the best routes to take.

While I was disappointed that the Gunsmith ‘shop’ and the El Paso Post Office were fully booked for the night, my disappointment quickly dissolved as I embarked on a thrilling horseback ride through the bush, ultimately reaching the beautiful beach. After our adventure, we returned to the saloon, and to our astonishment, Claire’s horse approached a window behind the bar with an eager expression. To everyone’s amusement, the horse was rewarded with a well-deserved beer. It was at that moment that my inner Wyatt Earp exclaimed, ‘Well, I’ll be darned! This could only happen in the Wild West, y’all!’ At this point, I’m pretty sure the locals were more than ready for me to ride off into the non-sunset.

An Escape to the Serene Lake

Feeling a little sore from our horseback riding adventure (and surprisingly not feeling the effects of last night’s party), we weren’t in a rush to leave the Macaneta Peninsula the next morning. As a result, we hit the road quite late and found ourselves cruising along the EN1, the main highway of Mozambique. This road is always bustling with traffic, and the strict speed limits certainly don’t help us get there any faster. But we didn’t mind. We decided to take it easy and casually pass through a series of dusty towns that all seemed to blend together. It wasn’t until nighttime that we were still on the road. I had been warned about driving at night in Mozambique, as it can be risky. However, in my experience, it’s really no more dangerous than driving at night anywhere else.

Just like that, I decided to take a detour and go against what everyone else was doing. We stopped at a little bar on the side of the road, bought a cold drink, and sat on a bench outside. People passing by were curious about why we were there at such a late hour and stopped to chat with us, the adventurous tourists. A few kilometers later, Claire heard some loud music, and once again, we veered off the main road in search of the party.

We drove slowly down a side street that was filled with food stands and stalls selling clothes. The twinkling lights guided us as we made our way towards the thumping beats. Finally, at the end of the lane, we stumbled upon a group of young people hanging out in an open-fronted, tin-shack bar. They had a massive sound system blasting out local dance tunes. The atmosphere was incredible, and we joined the crowd, dancing in the dusty air and communicating with our broken Portuguese, English, and sign language.

Nightlife along the way to Chidenguele Photo by Evan Haussman

We continued on and followed the GPS to Chidenguele (which means ‘the highest point’ in the local Chope language) and arrived at Naara Eco Lodge, where we would be staying for the night. The lodge is located near a system of freshwater lakes, protected from the Indian Ocean by tall dunes covered in native plants. The next morning, we woke up early and took kayaks across the largest of these lakes, called Nhambavale Lake. The sun had just risen, casting a beautiful golden light on the calm water, creating a stunning mirror-like reflection.

After our kayak adventure, we returned with wet butts but big smiles and enjoyed delicious omelettes at the lodge’s simple yet charming restaurant. The restaurant has an open front, offering a breathtaking view of the lake. Our original plan was to visit King’s Pool, but the tide was not in our favor, so we decided to go to the Bao Paz lighthouse instead. From the top of the lighthouse, we were treated to a magnificent sight – a never-ending beach on one side and a network of lakes on the other.

Reluctantly, we had to leave the beautiful and peaceful surroundings behind. We started up the Fortuner and slowly drove up the dirt road to get back onto the EN1. This road would take us on the 200-kilometer journey back home to Inhambane. Along the way, we would pass through the seemingly ordinary towns of Quissico, Inharrime, and Jangamo. But in reality, each of these towns had its own charm and uniqueness. All you had to do was take the time to stop and appreciate them.

Plan your trip

Getting there

Alright, folks, buckle up for the adventure of a lifetime! I’m here to guide you through an epic road trip from Johannesburg to El Paso. So grab your snacks, crank up the tunes, and let’s hit the road!

First things first, we need to get out of Joburg and make our way to the Lebombo border. To get there, we’ll be taking the N12 and N4. These roads will lead us straight to the border, where our journey truly begins.

Once we’ve crossed the border, we’ll find ourselves in the beautiful land of Mozambique. Our first destination is Maputo, but we won’t be venturing into the city itself. Nope, we’re taking the new ring road that bypasses Maputo entirely. Trust me, this will save us some valuable time and keep us away from any city traffic.

As we cruise along the ring road, enjoying the stunning scenery, we’ll drive approximately 3.7 kilometres until we reach a railway bridge. Don’t worry, we won’t have to drive on the tracks! Instead, we’ll cross the bridge and keep heading straight.

Alright, now we’re at a traffic circle. Here’s where things get a bit tricky, so pay close attention. Make a right turn at the traffic circle and continue driving for about 12 kilometres. Look out for the Xai-Xai sign on your left, and once you spot it, take the slipway on the left onto the EN1.

Now, we’re heading north on the EN1, and we’ve got about 33 kilometres to go before we reach Marracuene village. Stay on the lookout for this village because it’s our next turning point.

Once you’ve arrived at Marracuene village, make a right turn when you see the sign for Macaneta Lodge. This will lead us to our next destination. Keep following the road until you reach a T-junction, and there you’ll make a left turn. Carefully cross the railway line and then the Inkomati River. We can use the ferry or the new bridge if it’s up and running by the time you embark on this adventure.

After crossing the river, keep driving for about 6 kilometres until you come across an off-centre T-junction. Here’s where you need to keep left, following the signs that point us to El Paso. Stay on this path, and before you know it, we’ll be reaching our final destination – El Paso! How exciting is that?

Remember, my friends, this road trip is about exploring, enjoying the journey, and embracing the unknown. So let loose, soak in the breathtaking sights, and make unforgettable memories. The open road awaits – let’s hit it!

Hey there! Let’s talk about an amazing trip from El Paso to Chidenguele. Just a small note before we start: if you don’t have a 4×4 (like a big off-road vehicle), you’ll have to go back to the EN1. But don’t worry, I’ll give you an alternative route later.

So, to get to Chidenguele, you need to turn right at Marracuene and head north. Keep going past Xai-Xai until you reach Chidenguele. Once you’re there, take a dirt road to the right, and you’ll find the town. From there, go west to the beach, and you’ll find lots of places to stay. Nice, huh?

If you want to continue your journey to Inhambane, just go back to the EN1 and follow the signs. Easy peasy!

Oh, by the way, if you’d like to learn more about traveling in Mozambique, you should check out ‘DriveMoz’ on Facebook. They’ve got plenty of useful info, tips, and even help!

Exciting things to do during your trip

Hey there! Imagine paddling on Nhambavale Lake, with the sun kissing your skin and the water sparkling beneath your kayak. It’s a picture-perfect scene, right? Well, guess what? You can make that dream a reality. Just head over to the lake and you can rent a kayak for the day. Trust me, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss.

If you’re feeling hungry after your kayaking adventure, you should definitely check out the vendors at the Inkomati River. They have the most delicious prawns you’ve ever tasted. And the best part? They’re super affordable, starting at just R100 per kilogram. Oh, and don’t forget to grab a Coke to wash it all down!

Now, let me tell you about an unforgettable experience – horseback riding on the beach. Can you imagine feeling the warm sand beneath your hooves as you gallop along the shoreline? It’s pure magic. You can book a horse ride in El Paso and they’ll take you on a two-hour adventure that you’ll treasure forever. And the price? It’s only R250 per person, so it won’t break the bank.

If you’re a water lover, you’re in luck. Nhambavale Lake is the perfect playground for all things aquatic. Whether you’re into kayaking, fishing, birdwatching, or stand-up paddleboarding, this lake has it all. And if you’re a thrill-seeker, you’ll love it even more because it’s a mecca for kite surfers and sailors. Best of all, if you’re staying at Naara Eco Lodge, you can enjoy all these activities for free. They’ll even provide the kayaks and SUP boards – talk about a win-win situation!

And finally, I have a suggestion for all you adventurers out there. How about climbing the Bao Paz lighthouse? It’s just a short drive from Naara Eco Lodge, and once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views as far as the eye can see. The best part? It won’t cost you a dime. So go on, grab your camera and make your way to the lighthouse. You won’t regret it!

Hey there! Let me tell you about some awesome things you can do in Mozambique.

First up, you gotta check out King’s Pool. It’s this amazing natural rock pool that you can swim in during low tide. The water is so clear that the snorkeling is incredible, and the fishing is top-notch. They say it’s called King’s Pool because there are these massive kingfish that can strip a fishing reel like it’s nothing. It’s about five kilometers long, and you can get there by taking a transfer from Naara Eco Lodge for R100 or driving yourself.

Next, I highly recommend taking a ferry ride across the Inkomati River. Even if they end up opening a bridge, try to catch a ride on the ferry. It’s so much fun and really gets your adrenaline pumping. The price is just R25 per vehicle, so it’s a steal!

Finally, make sure to stop at one of the roadside bars and have a refreshing drink. This is a great way to meet the locals and get a true sense of Mozambican hospitality. We found that everyone was incredibly friendly and generous.

If you’re looking to add some spice to your meals, why not buy some home-made peri-peri sauce? You can find it at roadside vendors, along with fresh fruits, veggies, and cashews. Not only will you be enjoying delicious organic food, but you’ll also be supporting the local economy. Prices start at R50 for a 500-milliliter bottle of this hot stuff, so grab one and enjoy!

Make sure to visit the Chidenguele Cathedral during your trip. This magnificent building is well-maintained and features stunning stained-glass windows and a tall spire that stands out in the midst of traditional homes. You can visit during the day for free, but if you’re lucky to be there on a Sunday during service, you’ll get to experience a sermon in Portuguese and beautiful singing. The acoustics in the cathedral are absolutely lovely, making it an experience you won’t forget.

Don’t forget to connect with the locals and learn about their way of life. You can join a guided walk that offers insights into the community and supports their development. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and contribute to a meaningful cause. The cost for this experience is R65 per person, and the proceeds go into a community development fund, so you know your visit is making a difference.

Looking for accommodation?

Welcome to El Paso Mozambique! We offer cozy Wild West-themed chalets that will transport you to a rustic and adventurous setting. Our chalets are the perfect getaway, providing a unique experience for you and your loved ones. With comfortable accommodations at an affordable price, you can enjoy a memorable vacation without breaking the bank.

At El Paso Mozambique, we understand the importance of having a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Our chalets sleep four people and are available from R200 per person per night, including a delicious breakfast. Each chalet is tastefully decorated in the Wild West theme, creating a charming and immersive environment.

If you’re looking for a place that offers both convenience and affordability, Lugar Do Mar is the perfect choice. Our self-catering chalets are equipped with air-conditioning and private braai areas, ensuring that you have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, our chalets can accommodate your needs.

When it comes to pricing, our chalets start from R400 per person per night. It’s an excellent value for money, considering the amenities and services we provide. Plus, our friendly and attentive staff will make sure that you have a pleasant and memorable stay.

To make a reservation at El Paso Mozambique, contact us at +258844833048 or visit our Facebook page. For bookings at Lugar Do Mar, you can reach us at 0823789870 or +258840260409. You can also visit our website at lugardomar.com to learn more about our accommodations and explore the beautiful surroundings.

Escape the ordinary and embark on an unforgettable adventure with El Paso Mozambique and Lugar Do Mar. We await your arrival and look forward to providing you with an exceptional experience that will leave you wanting more.

When it comes to style, Naara’s has a subtly cool vibe. Just take a look at the photo by Evan Haussman. It’s effortlessly stylish, without trying too hard.

Now, let’s talk about fuel. In Mozambique, it’s cheaper than in other places, around R10 per litre. That means you don’t have to bring extra jerry cans of petrol when you visit the country. Plus, if you do bring them, you’ll end up paying a 40 percent import tax. No thanks! When you refuel, always double-check the meter to make sure it’s at zero. And before you pay, take a moment to confirm the price. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Here’s some border information for you:

Crossing from South Africa to Mozambique at the Lebombo border is usually a smooth process. However, things can get a bit trickier on the Mozambican side. Border officials might permit locals to approach you inside the border post, trying to take advantage of unsuspecting travelers like you. They’ll probably lead you to a parking spot and then ask for your gate pass, which you would have received from a uniformed official upon entry. Stay vigilant and watch out for these tactics.

Once the tout has your gate pass, it’s really hard to get it back because they adamantly guide you through the border entry process. And of course, they’ll charge you a “service fee” for their help. If you want to avoid this, don’t engage with anyone who isn’t wearing a uniform. The officials are friendly and will direct you to the next step of the process. Plan for about two hours for this crossing.

Don’t forget to bring the following:

– Passport

– Valid international or SA driver’s license

– Vehicle registration forms

– Third-party insurance (you can get it at the border or from a travel company)

– Two big reflective triangles

– Reflective jackets

– Fire extinguisher

– ZA sticker

Make sure you remember these important things. This article was originally published in the November 2016 edition of Getaway magazine.