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Paindane Hiking Trail Under Construction The Paindane hiking trail starts at Paindane in Mozambique. The adventure starts with crossing the border, driving through the small villages and enjoying the changing landscapes. Although it still was quite hot the first week of March, we enjoyed each day packed with loads of fun, snorkling, hiking and having long supper conversations until the full moon raised high into the African sky. Day 1: Half day snorkling (depending on tide) and 3 hours 10km cultural route. Snorkling at the 1.3 km Paindane reef was a wonderful first time experience for some of the hikers. Being afraid is soon forgotten when you start exploring the reef with abundant tropical fish and coral.
We started the cultural route late in the afternoon to use the cooler part of the day. The guide demonstrates the life style of the local people and we tasted casarva roots, drank coconut milk and cashew nut fruits. At the market local beer made from coco nut milk and cashew fruits helped to quench our thirst and we had a glimpse of the local economy in action. Day 2: 20 km from Paindane to Dongane Although our luggage was transported, the hike was tough, mostly because of the intense heat. After evaluation of the route, this day will be split with overnight accommodation at Legogo 14 km from Paindane. This will offer more time to explore the reef at Legogo. Day 3: Rest day at Dongane
We used the chance to play in the fresh water lakes and snorkel in the tidal pools. This day will change to a 7 km hike from Legogo to Dongane. The strange thing is that hikers love to keep on moving! Day 4: 10 km hike along the big lake from Dongane to the bush camp at Tieties baai
Everybody did enjoy the changed landscape with plenty of shade from big cashew nut trees and coco nut palms. With arrival at the bush camp, we wasted no time to get down to the beach. After snorkling at the reef and tidal pools, we explored the area, finding the leftovers of a ship wreck. Day 5: 7km hike from Tietiesbaai to Dondane along the sea. This is a relative short and very easy hike. It is important to arrive at Dongane in time to be transported back to Painane. It was clear that every one that had been part of this experience was going to return to do the hike again. Although some changes have been made to the logistics of the hike, you should strongly consider whether you can afford to miss the opportunity to book for this hike.
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