Nairobi to Cape Town Overland Tour

Day 02    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 03    Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater Excursion

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

Day 04     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 National Park to Ngorongoro Crater

Places

Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area

Day 05    Arusha

We return from the Serengeti and re-united with our truck and crew in Arusha. A welcome shower awaits us on our return and tonight we share a meal in camp as we prepare for tomorrow’s travel.

Route

Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha

Day 06     Bagamoyo

We head out early this morning as we journey south to our overnight stop in the coastal town of Bagamoyo. Formerly a centre point of the East African slave trade, Bagamoyo lies just north of the port of Dar es Salaam and is a perfect launching point for our upcoming Zanzibar Excursion. While today is primarily a travel day, we experience the hustle and bustle of one of Africa’s major travel routes. Road travel in Africa is an experience in itself and the bustling markets, villages and scenic backdrops that line the routes give a window into the lifestyle of rural Africa. This evening we will prepare for our Zanzibar Excursion that begins tomorrow morning.

Route

Arusha to Bagamoyo

Day 07     Nungwi (Zanzibar)

We complete the short journey into Dar es Salaam this morning and board our ferry for the two hour trip to Zanzibar. After arriving at the ferry port we board make our way to Nungwi on the northern shores of the island, we take the opportunity to visit the spice farms of Kidichi and Kizambani on our way this afternoon. Zanzibar is renowned for its spices and fragrances and we have the chance to experience this first-hand today. There are a number of excursions that can be arranged for the coming days in Nungwi and your guide will be on hand to assist.

Route

Bagamoyo to Dar es Salaam; Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar by ferry; Stone Town to Nungwi Beach

Included activities

Spice Tour and City Tour

Activity package

3-Day Zanzibar excursion

Day 08     Nungwi

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 09     Stone Town

Our visit to Nungwi comes to an end today as we travel back to Zanzibar Town in the afternoon. Boasting a rich history this bustling port was once a landmark on both the Slave and Spice trade routes, we spend our final night on the island on the beaches south of the port city.

Route

Nungwi Beach to Stone Town

Places

Stone Town

Day 10        Dar es Salaam

This morning we have an opportunity to explore the historic area of Stone Town before catching an afternoon ferry back to Dar es Salaam. Stone Town represents the historic centre of Zanzibar Town and is a must see for those with an interest in history, culture and the unique architecture of the historic port. Tonight we enjoy an optional dinner out in Dar es Salaam.

Route

Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam by Ferry

Optional activities

Dinner

Day 11      Mikumi

Leaving the coast behind us we travel inland and make our way to Mikumi where we stop for the night. Mikumi National Park ranks as the fourth largest park in Tanzania and forms part of a 75 000 square kilometre wilderness that centres on Selous, Africa’s largest game reserve.

Route

Dar es Salaam to Mikumi

Day 12       Iringa

We rise early this morning and enjoy an extensive game drive in the Mikumi National Park. This afternoon we continue to the southern highlands of Tanzania and our final stop in Tanzania.

Route

Mikumi to Iringa

Activity package

Mikumi National Park game drive

Day 13      Lake Malawi

Leaving Tanzania behind, we descend the Great Rift Valley and cross the border into Malawi. Known as the “Warm Heart of Africa” the lakeside country is blessed with natural beauty and our destination tonight is the shores of Lake Malawi where we look forward to spending the next few days enjoying the attractions of the northern regions of the lake.

Route

Iringa to Chilumba

Day 14       Lake Malawi

Today offers a range of optional activities or simply a day at the beach, 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

Snorkelling Lake Malawi

Included activities

Local Village Visit

Day 15     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 16    Lake Malawi

This morning we make the short journey south to the Nkothakota region of the Lake Shore, here we spend a final evening on the shores of the lake.

Route

Chilumba to Nkhotakota Region

Day 17    South Luangwa National Park

This morning we enjoy a final sunrise on the shores of Lake Malawi before setting off for Zambia and the South Luangwa National Park. After crossing the border into Zambia we make a short stop in Chipata before continuing to our camp on the banks of the Luangwa River. Having watched the sun rise over we Lake Malawi in the morning we enjoy an equally spectacular sunset over the Luangwa River this evening.

Route

Nkhotakota Region to South Luangwa National Park

Day 18    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 19     Petauke

Leaving the Luangwa Valley this morning we make a stop at Tribal Textiles. The Chipata area is a major producer of Cotton and this morning we get a taste of the creativity of the African culture. Those interested can enjoy a tour of their workshops (March to December) to see how these colourful fabrics are crafted. Our destination tonight is the small town of Petauke.

Route

South Luangwa to Petauke

included activities

Textile project visit

Day 20    Lusaka

As an important link between Lusaka and neighbouring Malawi, the Great East Road winds through rural Zambia and we will cross the Luangwa River on our way to Lusaka. The route today is 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

Petauke to Lusaka

Day 21    Victoria Falls

Crossing the Southern reaches of Zambia we make our way to the adventure town of Victoria Falls, this afternoon we get our first look at the mighty Victoria Falls. Crossing the bridge between Zambia and Zimbabwe we get a view of “Musi oa Tunya”, the Smoke that Thunders as the falls are known in the local language. Victoria Falls offers a host of optional activities and these can be booked on arrival in Victoria Falls.

Route

Lusaka to Victoria Falls

Day 22  Victoria Falls

This morning we visit the spectacular Victoria Falls, also known by the local name of “Mosi-oa Tunya” (the smoke that thunders). While today is dedicated to viewing the mighty Zambezi River as it drops into the Batoka Gorge below. The bustling adventure town of Victoria Falls also offers a range of optional activities for those wanting a dose of adrenaline in the afternoon, for the more relaxed traveller there are craft markets and coffee shops on offer as well. Tonight we enjoy an optional dinner out, your guide will assist you to decide on the many options available.

Activity package

Victoria Falls National Park Entry Fee

Day 23    Victoria Falls – Kasane

After breakfast we travel the short distance to the Botswana border, crossing into Botswana we set up camp on the banks of the Chobe River. Lunch will be served from the truck and the afternoon is set aside for exploring the Chobe National Park. We begin our exploration in 4×4 vehicles, which allows us an up close and personal experience with the many Elephants that frequent the River in the afternoons. The afternoon ends with a leisurely Boat Cruise and a meal served around the campfire.

Route

Victoria Falls to Kasane

Activity package

Chobe National Park game drive

Chobe National Park boat cruise

Day 24   Kasane – Caprivi

Today we cross into Namibia as we journey across the Caprivi Strip, much of our day is spent travelling through Game Parks and there is always the possibility of a lucky sighting. Our base tonight is on the banks of the Okavango River, here we will prepare for the upcoming Delta excursions. Your guide will brief you on what you need to pack for the Delta excursions, please note that baggage restrictions apply for transfers to our camps so a small daypack or similar is advisable.

Route

Kasane to Rainbow River Lodge

Day 25    Okavango Delta

Returning to Botswana this morning we make our way into the Okavango Delta. This unique and unusual ecosystem sees the annual flood waters of the Okavango River fan out into the sands of the Kalahari Basin. The seasonality of the flood waters lends the Delta its ever changing character. While water levels may fluctuate the tranquility of this wilderness area remains constant.

Route

Rainbow River Lodge to Okavango Delta

Activity package

Okavango Delta excursion

Day 26    Okavango Delta

A full day is set aside to enjoy the activities on offer in the Delta, while the programme of activities is flexible to accommodate the seasonal changes, you will have the opportunity to enjoy amongst other activities traditional Mokoro rides and natures walks. The Okavango Delta is not only a natural wonder, but represents one of the last great wilderness areas in the world today.

Day 27     Okavango Delta – Maun

Leaving the Delta behind us this morning we make our way to our overnight stop in the bustling town of Maun, the gateway to the Okavango Delta. Reunited with our truck we enjoy an evening together at the campfire reflecting on our Delta experiences.

route

Okavango Delta to Maun

Day 28     Maun – Ghanzi

This morning presents the opportunity for a Scenic Flight over the Okavango Delta before we travel to Ghanzi in the central Kalahari. The Kalahari is home to the San people and our stay here will present us with the opportunity to learn more about these fascinating people. An optional walk with San guides this afternoon gives us the opportunity to learn about the strategies that allow the San to survive in this harsh environment. This evening we will get a first-hand experience of the San culture, well known for its rich traditions of song, dance and story-telling.

Route

Maun to Ghanzi

Included activities

San Evening Dance Performance

Optional activities

Guided Walk with San Trackers

Day 29   Ghanzi – Windhoek

We start early this morning as we continue west and cross the border into Namibia, travelling onwards to the capital city of Windhoek. We will make a short stop in the city centre before continuing to our lodging for the night. This evening you have the opportunity to enjoy a meal at the well-known Joe’s Beer House restaurant, famous for its many venison specialties and quirky atmosphere.

Route

Ghanzi to Windhoek

Included activities

Visit to Windhoek City Centre

Optional activities

Dinner Out at Joe’s Beer House

Day 30    Windhoek – Etosha

Leaving the city of Windhoek this morning, we travel north for two exciting days of game viewing in the Etosha National Park. On our way today we will make a short stop at the craft markets in Okahandja before continuing to our rest camp in Etosha. While tomorrow will see us make an early start, those who would like to chance their luck can spend some time at the floodlit waterhole at the camp tonight.

Route

Windhoek to Etosha National Park

Included activities

Craft market stop en-route

Day 31     Etosha National Park

Etosha is the venue for some of the most unique game viewing experiences in Africa. Today we have a full-day to explore the edges of Etosha Pan in search of the abundant wildlife that occurs in the park. Our truck offers us an elevated platform and we will spend some time at the many waterholes dotted throughout the park. Those who wish to partake in an optional night drive may do so tonight (subject to availability).

Included activities

Full-Day Game Viewing in our truck

Optional activities

Etosha Night Drive – subject to availability

Day 32   Etosha – Outjo

As our camp tonight is only a short distance from the Etosha National Park, we will have another full day to continue our exploration of this vast park. Today also presents an opportunity to join an optional morning game drive offered by the park (subject to availability).

Route

Etosha to Outjo

Optional activities

Etosha Morning Game Drive – subject to availability

Included activities

Full-Day Game Viewing in Nomad truck

Day 33     Outjo to Khorixas

This morning we travel north towards Kamanjab where we will visit a project that introduces us to the Himba people of northern Namibia.

The semi-nomadic Himba Tribe are extremely susceptible to Western influence and have lost a large portion of their land to farmers, engineers, miners and many were displaced during the wars that raged between Namibia and Angola. The dwindling number of pastoralists that still exist in their natural environment are protected as far as possible by creating a “buffer zone”, or an “educational tribe” where tourists who would like to get a better understanding of the way of the Himba, their lifestyle and their traditions, can do so without interfering with those still living in their natural environment. Visiting the Himba tribe can be a controversial topic that gets discussed at the camp fire, however not so much if the reason for visiting this particular tribe is understood beforehand. The income that this specific tribe generates from the visits goes towards the education of orphaned Himba children and assists the tribe in giving them a chance to learn about their own culture and heritage. There is a market at the end of your visit, this is a way for the women to establish a small income, used for their own private expenses, and it is up to you whether you’d like to purchase anything or not

After our visit to the Himba project we turn south and travel to the small town of Khorixas, we will finish our day with a visit to the Petrified Forest on the outskirts of the town. These fossilized forests remain as a natural monument to a time long ago when Namibia formed part of the Gondwana super-continent.

Route

Outjo to Khorixas

Included activities

Visit the Petrified Forest

Activity package

Himba Tribe visit

Day 34   Khorixas – Swakopmund

This morning we travel onwards to Spitzkoppe, here a local guide will join us for a walk around the base of this famed landmark. We will have the opportunity to view some San rock paintings before we continue to the seaside town of Swakopmund. Swakopmund is well known for its many adventure activities, coffee shops and rich German influence. This evening you will have the opportunity to book some of the many exciting activities on offer and we end the day with dinner out at a local restaurant.

Route

Khorixas to Swakopmund

Included activities

Guided Walk at Spitzkoppe

Optional activities

Dinner Out in Swakopmund

Day 35     Swakopmund

Today is a free day to enjoy adventure, explore Swakopmund or simply enjoy a great bake at a local coffee shop. Swakopmund offers all the conveniences of a little city and there is something to keep everyone busy. This welcome brush with civilization is the perfect launching pad as we venture to the Namib Desert tomorrow morning.

Optional activities

Quad biking

Sand boarding

Skydiving

Dolphin cruise

Day 36    Swakopmund – Namib Naukluft

Leaving behind the charms of Swakopmund we continue our journey to Southern Namibia and the Namib Desert. We make a short stop in Walvis Bay this morning before turning east towards the heart of the desert. Our afternoon will be spent with a local guide who will introduce us to the wonders of the desert environment. An early night is advisable as we tomorrow will see us up as the dawn breaks.

Route

Swakopmund to Naukluft National Park area

Activity package

Guided desert walk with local expert

Day 37    Sesriem and Sossusvlei

Rising with the first light we travel to Sesriem, the gateway to the Sossusvlei dune fields. We enter the park early and make a stop to climb the famous Dune 45. Having stretched our legs we continue deeper into the Dune fields and take a 4×4 transfer to the marvels of Sossusvlei. We take time to visit both Sossusvlei and Deadvlei, before bidding the dune field farewell. Our final stop before continuing to our camp is the interesting Sesriem Canyon, a remnant of much wetter times in this dry region.

Included activities

Sunrise hike up Dune 45

Visit to Sossusvlei / Deadvlei and the Sesriem Canyon

Day 38   Namib Naukluft – Fish River Canyon

Today we travel south on the gravel byways of Southern Namibia on route to Ais-Ais. Famed for its hot springs the resort and its hot pools are the perfect tonic to ease away the dust of the Namib, an evening swim under the Desert stars is not to be missed. Tomorrow will again be an early start as we aim to catch the morning light as it filters into the Fish River Canyon.

Route

Namib-Naukluft NP to Ai-Ais

Included activities

Ais-Ais Hot Springs

Day 39   Fish River Canyon – Orange River

As dawn breaks we head out towards Hobas and the Fish River Canyon, one of the largest canyons in the world. The early hours of the morning offer great photographic opportunities as the morning light filters into the canyon. We will spend time exploring the rim of the canyon, before making for the Orange River and our final stop in Namibia. Our last night in Namibia is spent on the banks of the Orange River and the best way to experience the Orange River is by canoe. This afternoon you will have the opportunity to partake in an optional canoe trip on the river.

Route

Fish River Canyon to Gariep / Orange River

Included activities

Visit to the Fish River Canyon

Day 40    Orange River – Cedarberg

A final border crossing sees us enter South Africa this morning as we travel through the desert landscapes of Namaqualand on our way to the Cedarberg region. The Cedarberg is the home of Rooibos tea, which has become a popular beverage throughout the world. Tonight we enjoy a traditional South African meal and celebrate the many memories we have made.

Route

Orange/Gariep River to Citrusdal

Activity package

Wine tasting & traditional dinner

Day 41    Cedarberg – Cape Town

The final leg of our journey sees us travel through the wheat fields of the Swartland to the city of Cape Town. No visit to the fairest Cape would be complete without sampling some of the wines that have made this region famous. We enjoy a wine tasting and make a short stop in Table View for some great pictures of Table Mountain. On clear days we can also catch our first glimpse of Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela spent so many years. The tour ends on arrival in Cape Town.

Route

Citrusdal to Cape Town