Our First Adventure Trip!
We just returned from our first Adventure Trip in Mozambique, and we can’t wait to share our experience with you! Keep reading for a peek into our journey.
Day 1 & 2: Welcome to Mozambique & Exploring Maputo
Travelers arrived in Maputo, Mozambique’s capital, on March 6th and were warmly welcomed by Kurandza team member, Kátia, and founder, Elisabetta. We enjoyed a group dinner together and prepared for the first full day in Maputo the next day.
On day two, we did a walking tour of Maputo. From exploring historic landmarks to visiting the artisan market, we became familiar with the culture, history, and artistry of this beautiful country. The market displayed a collection of pieces created by talented Mozambican artisans, ranging from intricately woven bags and baskets to beautifully crafted pieces of art and batik. We took a detour before lunch at the iconic fish market “mercado do peixe” to a local toy and book store to select some goodies to bring to the children at our partner preschool the next day.
Day 3 & 4: VISIT TO OUR PARTNER PRESCHOOL AND Meeting the community of Xai Xai
Days three and four took our group of travelers to Xai Xai to visit Kurandza’s partner preschool. Much of the preschool, including the dormitory/cafeteria and bathrooms, was built thanks to the Kurandza community’s generous contributions. After spending quality time and gifting new toys, games and supplies to the children, our group headed to a nearby beach resort to experience the gorgeous sunsets Xai Xai offers. All of the travelers loved meeting the students, and the students had the best time meeting our group, too!
Day 5: Meeting the Kurandza field staff and students in Chivonguene
Day five took the travelers to Chivonguene, Mozambique—the village where the majority of the girls in our program reside. The group’s welcome to Chivonguene was incredibly special! We were greeted with welcome songs by the students, posters with each of the traveler’s names, and interactive games lead by our incredible head of education programs, Mónica. The girls also worked so hard to put on a special ceremony for us with poetry and songs.
Each student bravely stood up to tell the group what they aspire to be when they grow up. What is so special is that thanks to our amazing supporters, they are going to reach their dreams.
The first day in Chivonguene was a memorable day filled with love, culture, impact, and a delicious meal shared together, which was prepared by the team and students’ mothers. For lunch we had beans + cabbage, grilled chicken, french fries, coleslaw, rice, xima (cornmeal), and cucumber salad.
Day 6: workshops, seminars, and trainings for the staff & students
The next day, our group of travelers gave back by sharing seminars, training, and workshops with the team and students. One of the group members, Praise Santos, shared her signature values workshop with the girls. Some of the other trainings included dream designing, photography best practices, and project management.
Day 7: Community Project and Farewell
After an inspiring two days in Chivonguene, the group presented 50 acacia and cashew trees for the team and girls to plant in the community as a thank you for having us in the community. The team and students gave a warm farewell to the travelers. The Kurandza field staff made the trip so special, and the travelers created a special bond with the team and students.
Day 8 & 9: Safari
The last days of our adventure trip ended with safaris in the Greater Kruger National Park. We stayed at a private reserve and wildlife sanctuary that has many initiatives for anti-poaching and eco-education. Our group went on two wildlife excursions each day. Our tour guides Phillip (tracker) and Tervin (head ranger) led us on exciting game drives where we were able to see the Big-5: lions, elephants, leopards, water buffalo, and rhinos. We also saw giraffe, zebra, impala, and so much more.
An impactful trip
It was an amazing time exploring Mozambique and South Africa, and all of the travelers experienced a trip full of adventure, connection, and impact. Meeting Kurandza students, visiting their community, and learning how empowerment and education changes lives, was something we will never forget.
Follow us on Instagram to see more behind the scenes content from our trip. You can catch all our stories from the trip in our travel highlight.
Ready for an adventure?
The entire community welcomed the travelers with open arms and said they can’t wait to meet more of you on future trips. Want to meet the team and students in Mozambique? Click the button below to join our waitlist for our upcoming trip later this year!
Thank you to Praise Santos of ComePlum and Alyssa Cate for photographing and capturing beautiful moments during our trip.