East Africa and Gorillas Overland Tour

Day 02      Petauke

This morning we drive through Zambia’s busy capital Lusaka before turning east towards Petauke, our destination for the night. As an important link between Lusaka and neighbouring Malawi, the Great East Road winds through rural Zambia and we will cross the mighty Luangwa River along the way. Dotted with villages and subsistence farms, today’s landscapes serve as a stark contrast to the developed countries so many of us call home.

Route

Lusaka to Petauke

Day 03        South Luangwa National Park

With two days of travel behind us we look forward to the tranquillity of South Luangwa and this morning we make our way to the banks of the Luangwa River. Our first stop though is the town of Chipata, home of Chipata Cotton and an important centre for the cotton famers of the region. Tribal Textiles represents the creativity of the African culture and those interested can enjoy a tour of their workshops (March to December). One of the finest sunsets is surely that enjoyed on the banks of the Luangwa River, so grab a cold drink and watch the day fade away.

Route

Petauke to South Luangwa National Park

Included activities

Textile project visit

Day 04    South Luangwa National Park

South Luangwa National Park is a world-class safari destination and we have a full day to explore the park in search of the variety of wildlife found in the park. This morning you can partake in an optional morning safari or during the dry season (April to December) you can join one of the iconic walking safaris on offer in the park. This afternoon we will enjoy a Sunset Drive in the park, we split our time between day and night with a sundowner stop in between. The unique opportunity to explore the park at night gives us a chance to spot the elusive nocturnal species that are rarely seen in the day.

Optional activities

Morning Game Drive in South Luangwa

Safari Walk (seasonal)

Activity package

Sunset Game Drive in South Luangwa National Park

Day 05        Lake Malawi – Malawi

This morning we board our truck and set off for Malawi, the warm heart of Africa. Our destination tonight is the shores of Lake Malawi, the southernmost lake in the East African Rift system. As one of the ten largest lakes in the world, the lake stretches for over 500km along the western boundary of Malawi and is home to more species of fish than other lake. We spend the night on the shores of this natural wonder.

Route

South Luangwa National Park to Lake Malawi

Day 06              Northern Lake Malawi

Taking our time this morning we enjoy the charms of sunrise on the Lake, we head out this afternoon and come to rest on the northern reaches of the lake shore. Here we spend a few days indulging in the many attractions that underlie the charm of the Lake and its people. Our base for the next three nights offers a range of opportunities to satisfy every wish.

Route

Southern Lake Malawi to Northern Lake Malawi

Day 07     Lake Malawi

Amongst the myriad of optional activities to fill your days, we will pay a visit to a local community this morning to meet the people of the lake. Hikers will find a selection of trips, including a rather strenuous outing to the mission village of Livingstonia, set high above the lake. Snorkelling in the crystal waters offers the chance to see first-hand the brilliantly coloured tropical cichlids, tiny fish often found in colourful aquariums around the world. Your guide will assist you to plan your activities for the coming days, or you can simply slow your clock to Africa time relaxing on the lake shore.

Optional activities

Community Volunteering

Livingstonia day trip (hike)

Snorkelling Lake Malawi

Included activities

Local Village Visit

Day 08  Lake Malawi

This morning we set aside some time for a visit to Karonga, this interesting town has a turbulent history as a centre Malawi’s slave trade. Home to a museum that boasts a dinosaur amongst its displays, we learn more of the rich history of both people and the natural world. We return for a final afternoon of relaxation and a final sundowner on the shores of this great lake.

Included activities

Museum Visit

Karonga Town

Optional activities

Community Volunteering

Livingstonia day trip (hike)

Snorkelling Lake Malawi

Day 09    Tanzania – Iringa

Today as we leave Malawi, we ascend the Great Rift Valley and make our way into Tanzania. We round the northern extremes of the lake as we turn east and continue to our overnight stop in Iringa.

Route

Northern Lake Malawi to Iringa

Day 10            Mikumi

This morning we complete our journey to the doorstep of Mikumi National Park. Mikumi ranks as the fourth largest park in Tanzania, but forms part of a 75 000 square kilometre wilderness that centres on Selous, Africa’s largest game reserve. Abutting the northern border of this vast wilderness, Mikumi offers us an opportunity for an afternoon of game viewing.

Route

Iringa to Mikumi

Activity package

Mikumi National Park game drive

Day 11    Dar es Salaam

Today we continue onwards to the bustling port of Dar es Salaam, tonight we have an opportunity to dinner out on the town as we prepare for our upcoming excursion to Zanzibar. Dar es Salaam grew from a humble fishing village and today is one of the largest cities in Africa.

Route

Mikumi to Dar es Salaam

Optional activities

Dinner

Day 12    Zanzibar Excursion

Boarding the ferry to Zanzibar this morning we make the ocean journey to the island of Zanzibar. On arrival we will partake in a Spice Tour before reaching Nungwi on the northern point of the island. Our home for the next two nights, Nungwi offers a perfect stop to enjoy the beaches and activities on offer.

Route

Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar by ferry – transfer to Nungwi

Optional activities

Snorkelling

Sunset Sailing Trips

Included activities

Spice Tour and City Tour

Activity package

3-Day Zanzibar excursion

Day 13             Zanzibar Excursion

Today is a free day for enjoying some of the many attractions and activities on offer. Water sports are the order of the day and Nungwi offers fishing, snorkelling, scuba diving and a variety of ocean safari options. Whatever it is you chose to do today, you will have ample opportunity to create some island memories. Rent a scooter and explore the many attractions on offer or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.

Optional activities

Jozani Forest

Village Tour

Turtle Sanctuary Visit

Scuba Diving

Fishing

Snorkelling

Day 14     Zanzibar Excursion

Our visit to Nungwi comes to an end today as we travel to Stone Town this afternoon. Boasting a rich history this bustling port was once a landmark on both the Slave and Spice trade routes. We overnight here before returning to Dar es Salaam in the morning.

route

Nungwi Beach to Stone Town

Day 15    Dar es Salaam – Bagamoyo

This morning we have some time to explore the sights of Stone Town, the rich history and vibrant markets are some of the highlights of any visit to Zanzibar. We bid farewell to the island this afternoon and board our return ferry, on arrival in Dar es Salaam make the short journey north to Bagamoyo where we make our stop for the night.

Route

Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam by ferry; Dar es Salaam to Bagamoyo

Places

Stone Town

Day 16     Arusha

Heading north this morning we travel across the northern reaches of Tanzania, our destination tonight is the bustling town of Arusha which is our launching point for the Serengeti. Northern Tanzania is home to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Kilimanjaro. This evening we will briefed on the excursion to Serengeti by our local guide as we prepare for the coming days.

Route

Bagamoyo to Arusha

Day 17          Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater Excursion

The following days are set aside for the 3-night optional camping excursion into the Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater. This area has one of the most densely inhabited large animal populations in Africa. The Serengeti excursion is in open topped 4×4 safari vehicles in order to tackle the challenging side roads in the parks. We leave our accommodation in the morning and drive to the Serengeti. On arrival we will start with our first game drive.

Route

Arusha to Serengeti National Park

Places

Serengeti National Park

Optional activities

4-Day Serengeti camping excursion

Day 18    Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater Excursion

We spend the entire day game driving through the Serengeti. Our route is depending on the movement of the game and sightings.

Day 19     Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater Excursion

Today we explore more of the Serengeti and make our way to the famous Ngorongoro Crater. We drive down to the bottom of the Crater, where we try and see as many animals as possible.

Route

Serengeti to Ngorongoro

Places

Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area

Day 20    Arusha

Returning to Arusha tonight we share out experiences of the Serengeti and prepare for the trip to Nairobi tomorrow.

Route

Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha

Day 21    Kenya – Nairobi

We cross the border into Kenya this morning and make our way to Nairobi.

Route

Arusha to Nairobi

Optional activities

Dinner

Day 22    Nairobi – Masai Mara National Reserve

We leave the capital of Nairobi and travel to the Masai Mara, world renowned for its endless plains of wild animals and spectacular beauty. The visit to the Masai Mara is operated in safari type vehicles and not the Superb truck. For this reason, you are asked to pack a small overnight bag to travel with. You will need your towel, clothes, toiletries and camping essentials.

Route

Nairobi to Masai Mara

Activity package

Kenyan Parks Highlights Excursion

Day 23      Masai Mara National Reserve

The rolling grasslands of the Masai Mara offer ideal game viewing and photographic opportunities. Some of the other animals that could be found here include elephant, black rhino, buffalo, leopard, cheetah, wildebeest, zebra and gazelle. Hippo and crocodile abound in the muddy brown waters of the rivers, which traverse this reserve. Today we will spend the entire day game driving through the Mara in search of all the animals.

Highlights

Masai Mara National Reserve

Day 24     Lake Nakuru National Park

This morning we bid the Mara farewell before heading to Lake Nakuru National Park, here we will enjoy an afternoon game drive through the park. Lake Nakuru is home to large flocks of Flamingos and pelicans as well as black & white rhino, leopard, lion and numerous buck. Originally created as a bird sanctuary, Lake Nakuru was upgraded to National Park status in 1968.

Route

Masai Mara Reserve to Lake Nakuru National Park

Places

Lake Nakuru National Park

Day 25      Jinja

This morning we not only cross the border into Uganda, but shortly after setting out this morning we cross the Equator on our way to Jinja. Jinja is Uganda’s second largest city and most famous as the point where the Nile (officially the Victoria Nile) flows out of Lake Victoria and begins the 6695 kilometre journey to Egypt and the Mediterranean.

Route

Lake Nakuru to Jinja

Included activities

Crossing of the Equator

Day 26     Masindi – Murchison Falls National Park

After a quick stop in the city of Kampala, we head in the direction of The Murchison Falls National Park. Also referred to as the Kabaraga Falls, Murchison Falls is a waterfall found on the course of the great Nile and are located within the Murchison National Park. The park is recognized as one of the best National Parks in Uganda. After settling into our accommodation in Masindi, your guide will brief you on the activities for the following day.

Route

Jinja to Masindi

Day 27    Masindi – Budongo Central Forest Reserve

Budongo Forest is the biggest Mahogany forest found in the whole of East Africa and is home to the largest number of chimpanzees throughout Uganda. It is believed that there are between 600 – 700 chimpanzees in Budongo and this morning we will meet up with our chimp guide who will take us on our trek through the forest in search of the chimps. We will also enjoy a game drive through the park in search of the great diversity of wild animals. Note: As the Chimp trekking is limited to 12 guests per trek, should there be more than 12 guests on a tour the trekking will be split between the morning and the afternoon. Therefore you may find that you will first do the game drive activity followed by the Chimp trekking or vice versa. Please allow for flexibility.

Activity package

Chimp Trekking Murchison Falls

Included activities

Visit to Murchison Falls lookout

Game drive (half day)

Day 28      Kampala

While we spend the night in the bustling capital city of Kampala, this morning we have the opportunity to visit the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. These majestic animals are in a literal fight for their survival. Rhino Fund Uganda (RFU) was formed as a Non-Government Organization (NGO) in 1997 and is tasked with overseeing its aim of reintroducing Rhinoceros, a highly endangered species across the globe, back into the National Parks of Uganda through a breeding and release program. Out of this emerged the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, 7000 hectares of imminently suitable savannah and native woodlands.

Route

Masindi to Kampala

Activity package

Ziwa Rhino walk

Optional activities

Dinner

Day 29       Gorillas (Lake Bunyonyi)

Crossing the Equator once more we travel south to the beautiful scenery of Lake Bunyonyi. With eager anticipation we prepare for the upcoming Gorilla trekking excursion and tonight we will receive a briefing on what to expect.

Route

Kampala to Bunyonyi

Day 30     Gorillas (Lake Bunyonyi)

The mountain gorilla is extremely endangered and while exact numbers vary it is widely assumed that there are only around 650 left. Visiting the gorillas is a great way to support their future on earth as the money spent on permits is used for their protection. An extremely important part of the future conservation of the remaining gorillas rests in the community development work – as local communities change their attitudes towards wildlife and start to protect rather than poach, the future of the mountain gorilla is assured.

As permits granting permission to visit the gorillas are extremely limited we require flexibility in both the tour itinerary and where we actually visit them. The home of the mountain gorillas is completely at odds with man-made borders and so their range encompasses Uganda, Rwanda and the DRC (Democratic Republic of the Congo). Whenever possible we choose to make use of the National Park in Uganda, but this depends on the availability of permits. Should we not obtain permits to visit the mountain gorillas in Uganda then we will inform all passengers beforehand that the tour will travel to Rwanda or DRC.

On your free day in Bunyonyi you will have the opportunity to participate in certain optional activities. You can also go hiking or explore the area on a mountain bike.

Route

Lake Bunyonyi National Park to starting point of the gorilla trek (in safari or smaller vehicles)

Optional activities

Gorilla Trekking

Highlights

Mountain Gorilla

Day 31    Gorillas (Lake Bunyonyi)

Although there are 2 days allocated to Gorilla Trekking you will only spend one day on the trek. The other days are there to provide a large enough window in which to obtain permits and to allow the entire group to trek if there are more than 6 of you on the tour. Today we will enjoy a visit to the Nyombi Village, a Pygmy village which is reached by motor boat from Bunyonyi Resort. We will have the opportunity to learn about the culture of the Pygmies and how they live.

Activity package

Pygmy village visit (including motor boat transfer)

Day 32     Lake Bunyonyi – Kampala

This morning we set off on our return journey to Kampala and make a third crossing of the Equator along our way. Tonight your guide will brief you on the activities available in Jinja so that you can plan your day tomorrow. We overnight in Kampala and enjoy an optional dinner out.

Route

Lake Bunyonyi National Park to Kampala

Optional activities

Dinner

Day 33    Jinja

A short distance from Kampala, Jinja offers many exciting activities and your guide will assist you to plan for this day. Most activities are focussed around the waters of the Nile and these include rafting, kayaking and a variety of cruises on Africa’s largest river. While those who may be less inclined to water sports can enjoy horse riding or a quadbike adventure on dry land.

Route

Kampala to Jinja

Day 34   Kenya – Eldoret

Returning to Kenya we visit Eldoret, the country’s 5th largest city. The Great Rift Valley is still the dominant geographical feature of this region and the altitude at Eldoret is 2100 metres above sea level.

Route

Jinja to Eldoret

Day 35      Nairobi

Returning to Nairobi this afternoon we reflect on many memories that we have gathered together and brace ourselves for a return to the busy streets of Nairobi.

Route

Eldoret to Nairobi

Optional activities

Dinner