Cape Town to Nairobi and Gorillas Safari (Inclusive) (Under 39’s) (55 Day)

Day 1

Cape Town, South Africa

Upon your arrival in Cape Town, you will be transported to your hostel. Following a pre-departure meeting with your group, you should ensure that you have all necessary visas for the trip. You will then have free time to explore the Mother City, but please be back in time for the welcome meeting. Take a few hours to discover this cosmopolitan city rich in history and extremely diverse in culture. The city boasts over three million residents and is the Western Cape’s capital. If you arrive early you can spend time exploring the eclectic streets and cafes of Cape Town or take a trip on the city sightseeing bus.

Accommodation: Once in Cape Town (or similar)

Day 2

Cape Town – Cederberg, South Africa

On day two we make our way out of the city to start our adventure with a stopover by the coast. Here, we visit a local vineyard, do some wine tasting, play some football with the local children and spend time exploring the camp surrounds in this stunning area of South Africa. There is also a swimming pool at the campsite where you can chill out.

We visit !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre where you have the rare opportunity to interact with the young San women and men while learning about their fascinating history and cultural traditions.

The local wines of this area are also superb so why not sample a few. You can visit a wine cooperative as an optional excursion allowing you the chance to learn about these wines while sipping your favourite overlooking the surrounding winelands.

Accommodation: Highlands Campsite (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre
Optional Activity: Wine Tasting – 120 ZAR
Distance: 300 km (5 hours travelling time)

Day 3

Cederberg – Orange River, South Africa

On day three we make our way northward to the South African side of the Orange (Gariep) River. Following camp setup, we indulge in some early evening swimming, unwinding and maybe even some river canoeing (optional). Or just sit by the banks and watch the water wind it’s way to some heavy rapids.

Accommodation: Fiddlers Creek Rest Camp (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Activity: Canoeing on Orange River – 300 ZAR
Distance: 350 km (6 – 7 hours travelling time)

Day 4

Orange River – Fish River Canyon, Namibia

Today we cross the border into Namibia, so be sure to have your correct visa ready. We then travel through to the magnificent Fish River Canyon, the biggest in the continent and the second largest in the world. Take some time to explore the canyon rim and admire the dramatic sunset as it disappears behind the edge of the canyon. After snapping some amazing pics, we head back to camp for the rest of the evening.

The Fish River stretches 650 kms in length, making it Namibia’s longest river. It’s source is located in the eastern Naukluft Mountains and runs southwest of Ai-Ais into the Oranje. The canyon itself is situated along the lower area of the Fish River, and is one of the most remarkable natural creations of Southern Africa. It runs 550 metres deep, 27 kilometres wide and is the oldest canyon in the world, formed around 500 million years back, with some of its bottom rocks aging up to about 2,600 million years. Cat fish can be found in the River and survive the arid seasons by digging into the mud and waiting for the water to return. The levels of the water are usually highest from February to April, and the highest known temperature at the Canyon’s floor is 58 degrees Celsius.

Accommodation: Hobas Campsite (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Fish River Canyon Sunset Visit
Distance: 180 km (5 hours travelling time)

Day 5

Fish River Canyon – Namib Desert, Namibia

We travel further north today, passing the small and isolated towns of Bethanien and Helmeringhausen on the way to the Namib Desert. Namib’ comes from the Nama culture, with the name referring to a huge savannah located in the Desert. The region is extremely arid, receiving less than 100 millimetres of yearly rainfall.

After a long day driving bumpy roads, we arrive at our destination in the late afternoon. Find yourself surrounded by the red sand dunes of Sossusvlei glimmering in the light of dusk as they form the gateway to the Namib Desert. This is a truly remote area, giving you a sense of being alone with nature.

Accommodation: Sossus Oasis Campsite (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 560 km (10 hours travelling time)

Day 6

Namib Desert, Namibia

This morning we explore Sesriem Canyon before continuing onto the desert dunes where we climb the famous Dune 45.

We will be visiting Sossusvlei today which is a clay pan enclosed by the world’s largest sand dunes and surrounding ancient dead trees. The Tsauchab River flows through the Sesriem Canyon every 5 – 10 years, thereby creating the nearby salt and clan pan of Sossusvlei. You can take an optional guided walk around the dunes or explore the area on your own. We will then return to our campsite at lunch time and pack up camp before heading off to our next campsite within the Namib desert.

Accommodation: Namib Desert Camp Boesman (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Sesriem Canyon Visit and Dune 45 climb
Optional Activities: Sossusvlei Desert Walk – 10 USD, Namib Desert Walk – 30 USD
Distance: 5 hours travelling time

Day 7

Namib Desert – Swakopmund, Namibia

Today gives you the opportunity to truly explore the Namib Desert as you spend hours traversing across this barren area and cross through a couple of arid mountain passes. Prior to your arrival in the adrenaline capital of Swakopmund, you will travel past Walvis Bay – the only town on the Namibian shoreline that contains a deep-sea harbour.

We spend two evenings in this region, where you will have time to explore the town drenched in history. Swakopmund is home to spectacular lunar landscapes, vibrant sunsets and strange prehistoric Welwitchia vegetation.

Accommodation: Amanpuri Lodge (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Distance: 300 km (7 hours travelling time)

Day 8

Swakopmund, Namibia

Today is free for you to explore Swakopmund and it’s many activities on offer:

• Sandboarding in the Namib Desert 600NAD per person – Grab a board and sail down the dunes for an adrenaline kick of note
• Skydiving in Swakopmund 2800NAD per person – Take a plummet into the skies of Namibia with your trusted and skilled instructor
• Swakopmund Guided Cultural Tour 500NAD per person – Enjoy a historical guided tour of the back streets of Swakopmund and visit the home of a local ethic Herero woman. Sip on local brews at a ‘shebeen’ (pub).
• Skeleton Coast Scenic Flight 5000NAD per person – Get a bird’s eye view of the ship wrecks, Damaraland and the unusual Spitzkoppe rock formations

Accommodation: Amanpuri Lodge (or similar)
Meals: No meals will be provided today, offering you the chance to sample the local cuisine.

Day 9

Swakopmund –  Spitzkoppe, Namibia

In the morning we make our way north to the granite rocks of Spitzkoppe. You can explore on foot and spend the evening relaxing while looking up at the beautiful night’s sky! We will be roughing a bit in the bush tonight with long-drop toilets and no running water.

Accommodation: Spitzkoppe camp (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 3 – 4 hours travelling time

Day 10

Spitzkoppe – Damaraland, Namibia

Admire the incredible desert landscapes that seem to never end as we head towards Damaraland.

Around 100,000 Damara people reside in Namibia, all sharing a common language with the Nama, but keeping a distant relationship with each other. Some evidence suggests that the Damara have gathered small herds of stock for thousands of years, as well as grow tobacco and pumpkins (and, more recently, vegetables and corn). We stop a few times for you to browse and shop their local arts before heading to the Damaraland Living Museum where we learn about the lost culture of the Damara People.

The region is well-known for its bushmen paintings that can be spotted all over the area and you can go on an optional Pre-historic Rock Engravings Tour (100NAD) exploring Namibia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site.

We will arrive at the camp by mid-afternoon.

Accommodation: Aba-Huab Camp (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Damaraland Living Museum
Optional Activity: Prehistoric Rock Engravings Guided Tour – 100 NAD
Distance: 235 km (4 hours travelling time)

2020 Itinerary Change: We travel from Spitzkoppe to Etosha National Park on this day in 2020 travelling for 7 – 8 hours, with no stop in Damaraland. We embark on a Wildlife Safari Drive in Etosha and there is an optional activity of an Etosha Open Vehicle Safari Night Drive (750 NAD From 1 Jan 2020)

Day 11

Damaraland – Etosha National Park, Namibia

As we enter the park, we embark on a game drive through Etosha’s massive arid pan in search of elephant, hippo, antelope herds and lions gathered around the waterholes. Once the sun has set, spend some time observing wildlife at the watering holes, located close to the secure camping space that is floodlit. Daytime game drive will be in the overland truck, with an optional open vehicle night game drives on offer with a naturalist guide at 660NAD.

Accommodation: Etosha National Park Okaukuejo Restcamp (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Etosha National Park Wildlife Safari Drive in the Overland truck
Optional Activity: Etosha National Park Open Vehicle Wildlife Safari – 660 NAD
Distance: 300 km (8 hours travelling time)

2020 Itinerary Change: We spend this day in Etosha National Park in 2020, dedicating the full day to game drives. There will be no travelling time on this day. There is also an optional open vehicle wildlife safari drive available.

Day 12

Etosha National Park, Namibia

Today is a full day of driving in the park in search of wildlife such as lions, rhinos, elephants, giraffes, blue wildebeest, springbok, zebra, and hyenas. There is again the option of joining in on an Open Vehicle Wildlife Safari Drive (660NAD) with a naturalist guide who will take you in search of wildlife at dusk and into the early evening to view the nocturnal wildlife.

Accommodation: Etosha National Park Okaukuejo Restcamp (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Etosha National Park Wildlife Safari Drive in the Overland truck
Optional Activity: Etosha National Park Open Vehicle Wildlife Safari Drive – 660 NAD

2020 Itinerary Change: Please note that on this day in 2020, we will travel from Etosha National Park to The Waterberg Plateau travelling for 4-5 hours. Upon arrival at the Waterberg Plateau there is an optional hike through the trails of the national park. We won’t be embarking on the Etosha National Park game drive on this day. The accommodation on this day in 2020 will be NWR Waterberg Campsite

Day 13

Etosha National Park – Windhoek, Namibia

Toady we leave Etosha and head south through the Namibian countryside towards Windhoek. We stop for lunch at Penduka Village Restaurant and Shop where you can stretch you legs and enjoy refreshments.

Please note that as this is a combo tour some of your fellow travellers might be ending their journey in Windhoek while you may also be joined by new travellers starting their journey. This evening you can choose to enjoy an optional group dinner with both old and new travellers.

Windhoek is Namibia’s capital city, with a population of around 230,000 and an altitude of 1,654 metres. During WW1, Windhoek was taken over by South African troops and was converted into a British dominion. Until Namibia’s independence in 1990, Windhoek was known as the capital of Southwest Africa.

Accommodation: Urban Camp (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Included Highlight: Penduka Village Restaurant & Shop
Distance: 440 km (7 – 8 hours travelling time)

2020 Itinerary Change: We travel from the Waterberg Plateau to Windhoek on this day in 2020, travelling for 4 – 5 hours. We make a stop at the Penduka Village Restaurant and Shop for lunch. As this is a combo tour, new travellers may be joining the group

Day 14

Windhoek – Ghanzi, Botswana

Today we make our way across the border into Botswana. Please ensure to have your visa ready at this point. We travel through the eastern portion of Namibia today, entering Botswana and making our way into the centre of the Kalahari. Take this chance to embark on a San Bushmen Walk (10USD) with a local San Bushmen guide to be educated about plenty of interesting bush skills.

Ghanzi, situated in the western side of Botswana on the northern edge of the Kalahari Desert, is the administrative hub of the Ghanzi District and is also referred to as the ‘Capital of the Kalahari’. Ghanzi is a fascinating town, focused on farming that provides the Botswana Meat Commission with majority of the required beef produce. Ghanzi is mostly made up of a wide range of ethnic cultures, including the Bushman, Batawana and Afrikaners.

Accommodation: Ghanzi Trailblazers Camp (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15

Ghanzi – Maun, Botswana

We will leave Ghanzi in the morning and drive across Botswana towards Maun. For those of you who want to have a different view of the Okavango Delta you can take a flight over and see the vast wilderness and waterways and hippos below (120USD).

Maun is the gateway to the Okavango Delta and enjoys the reputation of being the premier town of Botswana. It was initially founded in 1915 by the Batawana, with the name ‘Maun’ meaning ‘place of reeds’. Though officially still a village, Maun is the fifth biggest town in Botswana. It is a diverse combination of contemporary structures and traditional huts. Maun is renowned as the tourism capital of Botswana and the administrative hub of the Ngamiland district. The town has swiftly grown from a rural town, stretching along the Thamalakane River. However, it still manages to maintain a rural atmosphere and local tribesmen continue to lead their cattle to the town to sell. This community is presently peppered along the broad Thamalakane Riverbanks, where red lechwe can still be spotted grazing near local donkeys, goats and cattle.

Accommodation: Sedia Riverside Camping (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 16

Maun – Okavango Delta, Botswana

Today we embark on our thrilling adventure into the Delta as we travel in safari vehicles. We then board our mokoros (traditional dugout canoes) that carry us into the depths of the Delta. A few hours later we arrive at our bush camp for lunch and set up our tents. In the afternoon we will set off on a guided walk to spot wildlife in the bush while in the evening we will be joined by the locals for some singing and dancing around the campfire.

Our basic camp has a bush toilet with no shower, but you are surrounded by the beauty of nature so it is well worth it.

The water rushing into the delta is extremely pure, mostly because of the lack of agriculture and industry along the Okavango River. It runs through the sand aquifers of the various delta islands and evaporates, leaving massive amounts of salt remaining. The Okavango Delta experiences seasonal flooding, which starts every mid-summer in the north and six months later in the south. During the peal floods, the islands of the Delta can completely hidden beneath the water, making an appearance again at the end of the season.

Accommodation: Okavango Delta Camping (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlights: Mokoro Experience, Okavango Delta Excursion

Day 17

Okavango Delta – Gweta, Botswana

Admire one final sunrise as you take part in a wildlife walk in the Delta before returning back to Maun. Take the trip back in your mokoro, followed by the safari drive before arriving around lunchtime. We hop back on the Overland truck and head to  Gweta where we are treated to the unique experience of camping beneath beautiful old Baobab trees.

On arrival at our campsite, you can take a walk around and relish a nice shower or swim in the pool after a night in the bush.

The town of Gweta is located between the bigger towns of Nata and Maun, on the Makgadikgadi Pan’s rim.

Accommodation: Planet Baobab (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Mokoro Experience and Delta Safari Drive
Distance: 2 hours in the Mokoro, 1 hour in the safari vehicle and 240 km (4 hours) in the Overland truck

Day 18

Gweta – Kasane

We make our way to Chobe National Park, home to the biggest population of elephants in Southern Africa. In the afternoon, feel free to embark on an optional game drive through the Park (50USD), or better yet, an optional Chobe River Sunset Boat Cruise (50USD). Either way relish the incredible wildlife inland or along the river’s banks.

Chobe National Park is one of the world’s last remaining large wilderness regions. In terms of size, the Chobe NP is the third biggest reserve in the country, sporting the most diverse and fantastic fauna and flora. The reserve has the biggest elephant population in the continent with the majority forming part of the largest surviving elephant concentrations in the world.

Accommodation: Thebe River Safaris Camping (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Optional Activities: Chobe River Sunset Cruise – 50 USD, Chobe National Park Safari Drive – 50 USD
Distance: 420 km (6 hours)

Day 19

Kasane – Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

We will cross the border today as we venture into Zimbabwe at the Kazangula border post to see the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls. Please ensure you have the correct visa ready at the border. The Zambezi River has eroded a passage over time which has deepened into an exit gorge forming Victoria Falls. On arrival we sit down to enjoy a traditional meal courtesy of the Lusumpuko Women’s Club. Enjoy a farm-to-table style meal with local seasonal produce while supporting the local community.

You have the option of going on a Zambezi River Sunset Cruise (50USD) to enjoy a picture-perfect sunset while sipping on cold drinks with a festive atmosphere – the perfect way to end a day. Or take a Helicopter flip (160USD) to see Victoria Falls in all its beauty from above as the river makes its way to the gorge and plummets to the depth below. You will possibly also be able to spot giraffes and elephants in the surrounding area.

As this is a combination trip, some travellers journey will come to an end while others may just be joining the adventure.

Accommodation: Explorers Village Camping (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Included Highlight: Lusumpuko Women’s Club Lunch
Optional Activities: Zambezi River Sunset Cruise – 50 USD, Victoria Falls Visit – 30 USD, 15 min Victoria Falls Helicopter Ride – 160 USD
Distance: 85 km (2 – 3 hours travelling time)

Day 20

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

You can spend another day viewing Victoria Falls or take part in the optional activities. Go Whitewater Rafting (150-160USD) on the raging rapids of the Zambezi for some thrilling excitement as you navigate your way through grade 5 rapids. Lunch and transfers are included in this activity cost.

Please note: The river conditions will vary depending on the time of the year. High water season is from February to July and low water season is from August to January. Also note the heavy rains of March and April may result in a closed season for rafting. You will depart in the morning and spend the full day navigating your way through the canyon, you will also need to partake in a 45 min hike down and again back up the Batoka Gorge so be prepared with appropriate footwear.

Another popular and exciting activity is bungee jumping from the Victoria Falls bridge (160USD). Or take a 15 min Helicopter flip (160USD) to see Victoria Falls in all its beauty from above as the river makes its way to the gorge and plummets to the depths below. You will hopefully also be able to spot giraffes and elephants in the surrounding area. In the evening you can go on a sunset cruise to toast the end of the day.

Accommodation: Explorers Village Camping (or similar)
Optional Activities: Victoria Falls Visit 30 USD, Victoria Falls Whitewater Rafting 150 – 160 USD, Zambezi Bungee Jump 160 USD, Victoria Falls Helicopter Ride (15min) – 160 USD, Zambezi River Sunset Cruise – 50 USD, Princess Laundry Service (ask at the campsite)

Day 21

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Today is our third day in Victoria Falls where you can take part in any other adventures you have not experienced yet such as Ziplining (45USD), a Bridge Swing over the Zambezi (160USD) or a Sunset Cruise (58USD).

As this is a combo tour, you may be saying goodbye to some friends made and hello to other new travel partners today. For this reason there is also a welcome meeting today to brief you on the next leg of your travels.

Accommodation: Explorers Village Camping (or similar)
Optional Activities: Victoria Falls Visit – 30 USD, Zambezi Bungee Jump – 160 USD, Zipline over the Zambezi – 45 USD, Bridge Swing over the Zambezi – 160 USD, Zambezi River Sunset Cruise – 50 USD, Victoria Falls Helicopter Ride (15 min) – 160 USD, Victoria Falls Helicoter Ride (25 min) – 330 USD, Victoria Falls Whitewater Rafting – 150 – 160 USD, Chobe National Park Day Trip – 170 USD, Princess Laundry Service (ask at the campsite)

Day 22

Victoria Falls – Lusaka, Zambia

Today’s lengthy adventure through rugged roads leads us to an exclusive game farm located 20 kilometres outside of Zambia’s capital, Lusaka. Here, you will be able to admire the many zebra, buffalo and springboks that wander freely around the area. At the campsite you can unwind next to the swimming pool, or at the camp’s bar.

Note: As this is an overnight stop alongside two long travel days, you will unfortunately not have time to explore Lusaka as your camp is 29km outside of the town.

Accommodation: Eureka Camping Park (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 543 km (10 hours travelling time)

Day 23

Lusaka – South Luangwa, Zambia

We travel across the Zambian countryside making our way to our camp for the evening, on the banks of the Luangwa River.

Accommodation: Wildlife Camp (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 575 km (8 – 9 hours travelling time)

Day 24

South Luangwa, Zambia

Today you are free to explore the South Luangwa National Park. There are plenty of activities to partake in and enrich your time here such as walking safaris, night drives and a visit to the local village. We highly recommend the walking safari as South Luangwa is the birth place of walking safaris in Africa and there is loads to see and experience in this park.

Accommodation: Wildlife Camp (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Activities: South Luangwa Walking Safari, Morning or evening South Luangwa Wildlife Safari Drive

Day 25

South Luangwa –  Chipata, Zambia

This morning you can enjoy an optional morning walk (seasonal) or drive in the park. We later head to the community empowerment Tribal Textiles Market & Courtyard Cafe for lunch and a craft workshop. The day ends when we arrive at camp in Chipata.

Accommodation: Mama Rule’s Camp (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Tribal Textiles Market & Courtyard Cafe
Optional Activities: South Luangwa Walking Safari, South Luangwa Wildlife Safari Drive
Distance: 135 km (2 – 3 hours travelling time)

Day 26

Chipata – Kande Beach, Malawi

We cross the border into Malawi today, so be sure to once again have your visa ready. This will be our home for four evenings allowing is to unwind on the shores of ‘the Lake of Stars’. Beach strolls, swimming in the sparkling water and snorkelling among exotic fish are all part of your incredible stay here. Pay a visit to a range of lakeside camps as we drive northward along Lake Malawi’s shores. For the most part, Malawi is very conservative so please show your respect by remaining covered in public without exposing shoulders and knees outside of camp boundaries.

The Lake is the primary attraction of Malawi, and is around 500 kilometres in length. Lake Malawi houses more fish species than any other lake in the world and has large shoals of Chichlids. Locals depend heavily on the lake for survival – they use mokoros (dugout canoes) to fish from and throw out long nets. There is also a wide variety of diverse ethnic groups here, all speaking their own language.

Accommodation: Kande Beach Lodge & Campsite or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 400 km (7 hours travelling time)

Day 27

Kande Beach, Malawi

Take some time today to relax and enjoy Kande Beach. Explore the area by foot, go snorkelling or enjoy a village tour. A traditional dinner cooked by the locals will be enjoyed tonight.

Accommodation: Kande Beach Lodge and Campsite (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Kande Beach Local Dinner
Optional Activities: Snorkelling, Village Walk, Swimming

Day 28

Kande Beach – Chitimba, Malawi

In the morning we will leave the Kande beach and drive north to Chitimba beach complete with beautiful views of Tanzania across the lake and mountains in the background. You are free to spend the afternoon exploring.

Accommodation: Chitimba Beach Lodge and Camp
Meals: Breakfast. Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 235 km (5 hours travelling time)

Day 29

Chitimba, Malawi

We have a final day at Lake Malawi today for you to take time to see and do anything that your heart desires, such as swimming or snorkelling, or visiting the local village (10USD). There is also a hike along the Nyika Plateau all the way up o Livingstonia where you can have a great view of Lake Malwai (5USD).

Accommodation: Chitimba Beach Lodge and Camp (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Activities: Hike to Livingstonia – 5 USD, Village Walk – 10 USD

Day 30

Chitimba – Iringa, Tanzania

We make our way into Tanzania today, travelling out of the Great Rift Valley through some incredible mountain passes. During our journey we are spoilt with beautiful scenery of the massive tea plantations in the highlands as we head through to Iringa, where we set up camp.

Accommodation: Kisolanza Farm (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 534 km (11 hours travelling time)

Day 31

Iringa – Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Today we depart for Dar Es Salaam, a city that began as a fishing village before becoming a port and trading hub. It will be a long driving day of about 10 hours excluding border formalities. Dar Es Salaam, or ‘Abode of Peace’ in Arabic, is Tanzania’s biggest city, with a population of more than 2.5 million. It is also the country’s wealthiest city, and a significant economic hub.

Accommodation: Mikadi Beach Lodge (Or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 637 km (12 hours travelling time)

Day 32

Dar es Salaam – Nungwi/Stone Town, Zanzibar

We will take a ferry to explore the picturesque beaches of the northern tip of Stone Town. During your stay here we encourage you to dress modestly due to the Muslim religion. Women are asked to cover up and men should refrain from wearing shorts. Please always ask before taking photographs.

Accommodation: Amaan Bungalows (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 33

Zanzibar Beach Resort

Today we take time walking along the beaches or going snorkeling (35-60USD), scuba diving (65USD), or sailing the azure waters on traditional boats (60-100USD including lunch and canoe trip). Explore the sealife of Mnemba island and relish the turquoise coastline. The locals here get very excited about seeing visitors and will offer you a plethora of activities to partake in. Try not to be overwhelmed by their enthusiasm!

Accommodation: Fun Beach (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Optional Activities: Scuba Diving – 65 USD, Snorkelling – 35 – 60 USD, Safari Blue Sailing Day Trip – 60 -100 USD, Swahili Cultural Tour – 70 – 200 USD

Day 34

Stone Town, Zanzibar

We will travel back to Stone Town stopping for a guided tour of the spice plantation where you can walk through the farmlands and learn more about the spices and their medicinal and culinary uses. Prick your senses as you familiarize yourself with black pepper, cardamon, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla and lemon grass.

Have the rest of the day free to explore the cobble streets of Stone Town. Marvel at Arabic buildings while getting lost in narrow lanes exploring local artworks, antique shops and traditional printed fabrics.

Accommodation: Tausi Palace Hotel (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Included Highlight: Spice Plantation Tour
Optional Acivities: Stone Town Walking Tour – 20 – 40 USD
Distance: 60 km (1 – 2 hours travelling time)

Day 35

Stone Town – Bagamoyo, Zanzibar

A ferry will take us back to the mainland and we make our way north to the coastal town of Bagamoyo. Recently named a World Heritage Site, Bagamoyo was an important trading ports to the central east African coast in the late 19th century.

If you have booked the Zanzibar Express you will remain in Stone Town where you can enjoy a free day of shopping, relaxing or wandering through the markets. Tomorrow you will fly to Arusha to meet the group.

Accommodation: Firefly Bagamoyo Campsite or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Ferry Trip (Stone Town – Dar es Salaam)
Optional Activity: Zanzibar Express flight Northbound (upgrade includes all transfers, local flight and additional hotel night in Zanzibar)
Distance: 60 km (1 – 2 hours travelling time) + 2 hour Ferry trip

Day 36

Bagamoyo – Arusha, Tanzania

Today we pass Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest mountain, and make our way toward Arusha. Situated at the base of Africa’s fifth tallest mountain, Mount Meru, Arusha is our base for the evening. This region is often referred to as the ‘safari capital’ of Tanzania.

Arusha offers up plenty of protected national reserves and mountains, while being a picturesque contemporary town. In the afternoon you will have time to pack a day-pack for our three-day excursion to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. Be sure to pack warm clothing for the evenings and insect repellent, sunscreen and water for the hot days.

Zanzibar Express: You will be transferred this morning from Stone Town to the airport for a scenic flight to Arusha. From Arusha you will be taken to the camp where you will meet up with the group.

Accommodation: Meserani Snake Park (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 590 km (12 hours travelling time)

Day 37

Serengeti National Park / Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania

Following breakfast, we start our adventure into the Serengeti National Park and the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater – two of Africa’s leading wildlife regions. Your 3 day and 2 night excursion starts a you hop on the specialised 4×4 safari vehicle which leads us on an incredible game drive through the Park by expert driver/guides. The trucks we use have sliding windows and a big, pop-up roof that is ideal for fantastic game viewing.

With an area of 14,763 square kilometres, the Serengeti is incredibly vast. We camp and spend time game viewing in the central Serengeti ‘Seronera’ region, which is situated in the southeast of the Park. You can expect to see a variety of wildlife such as buffaloes, lions, zebras, wildebeest, elephants along with many other animals.

Due to the size of the reserve, certain areas will not be available to visit during our stay here. As we travel through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and into the Serengeti National Park, you will begin to realise the enormity of this region, admiring the huge populations of wildlife that roam the acacia-spotted plains.

Accommodation: Seronera Campsite (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Serengeti National Park Safari
Distance: 320 km (8 hours travelling time)

Day 38

Serengeti National Park – Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

We will continue to experience the Serengeti on more game drives in the morning. When we return to the campsite we will pack up and journey to the Ngorongoro Crater for spectacular views of the rim populated with a variety of wildlife where we will camp for the night.

Some of you may have pre-booked a Serengeti Balloon Safari in which case this activity will likely take place today. In this case you will miss the morning game drive.

Accommodation: Simba Campsite (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Serengeti National Park Safari
Optional Activities: Serengeti Balloon Safari (600USD per person)
Distance: 160 km (4 hours travelling time)

Day 39

Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

Today we travel to the Crater floor, taking in the massive variety of fauna and flora, including zebra, gazelle, impala and cheetah that are enclosed by the Crater’s walls. Following our last safari we make our way back to Arusha.

Accommodation: Meserani Snake Park (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Ngorongoro Crater Wildlife Safari Drive
Distance: 200 km (4 – 5 hours travelling time)

Day 40

Arusha – Nairobi, Kenya

Depart Arusha in the morning and travel overland to Nairobi. Please note that this is a combination tour, and some of your fellow group members may be finishing their tour on this evening. There will be a border crossing so get your passports ready.

Accommodation: Hotel Boulevard (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 41

Nairobi, Kenya

Enjoy a free day in Nairobi to explore, or relax, before heading off to Uganda.

Accommodation: Hotel Boulevard (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 42

Nairobi – Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

We will drive across the Rift Valley to the most famous national park in Africa, Masai Mara National Game Reserve. We enjoy the afternoon on a game drive in search of the Big Five. We arrive at camp for the evening in the afternoon.  Once settled in, we embark on another game drive in the park.

Accommodation: Kenia Campsite
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast

Day 43

Masai Mara National Reserve, Nairobi

With an early start to the morning we embark on another game drive in the park. Enjoy the variety of game viewing today as we cross the plains and rivers of the Masai Mara National Reserve.

Accommodation: Kenia Campsite (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 44

Masai Mara – Lake Nakuru National Park

We leave behind the Masai Mara and make our way to Lake Nakuru National park today. Our afternoon is spent game driving through the national park in search of the many animals such as the black rhino, buffalo, impala and the elusive leopard.

Day 45

Lake Nakuru National Park – Eldoret

Enjoying one last game drive before making our way to Eldoret.

Accommodation: Greenwoods Resort and Campsite (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 46

Eldoret – Kampala, Uganda

Get your passport ready for more countries to add as you enter Uganda. We will camp outside of the country’s capital today. Enjoy a welcome meeting to connect with your new travel companions.

Accommodation: Red Chilli Hideaway (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 47

Kampala – Lake Bunyoni, Uganda

Today we head towards Lake Bunyonyi, making our way across the equator and enjoying a meal at a Cafe upon our arrival.

Accommodation: Bunyonyi Overland Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 48

Gorilla Trek, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Our time in this lush, magical, mountainous region of Uganda is spent on unforgettable guided trek deep into the forest-sloped volcanoes for a wild encounter of a family of mountain gorillas (Gorilla Permits Included). Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the home to approximately half of the world’s population of mountain gorillas, the world’s most endangered ape. One of Africa’s major highlights, a close encounter with these amazing animals is simply breathtaking.

The terrain is rough and at times muddy and slippery. It can rain at a moment’s notice; hence waterproof clothing is essential along with protective bags for your camera and film. We also suggest dressing in ‘layers’ as often it’s chilly at first until you start trekking. We also suggest long sleeves and long pants to protect you from stinging nettles found in the forests. The trek can last up to 6 hours, exceeding altitudes of 2500m. It is essential to keep hydrated at all times. About 98% of the trekking is successful but we cannot guarantee that there will be gorillas seen as they are always moving around. For the remainder of your time here, you have the chance to participate in optional activities. You will be sub-divided into groups of 8 to protect the Gorillas from too much exposure or disruption.

Accommodation: Bunyonyi Overland Camp (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 49

Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda

Enjoy a day of leisure or partake in one or two of the activities listed below.

• Canoe rental (10USD) Paddle around the islands of Lake Bunyonyi.
• Bird watching (5USD) ‘Bunyoni’ actually means ‘place of little birds in the local language and this is a haven for bird lovers.
• Nature Walk (5USD) Take a lovely walk around the area to see the incredible landscape of Lake Bunyonyi, the villages and the local communities.
• Motorboat Tour of Lake Bunyonyi (25-80USD) Enjoy a relaxing boat trip along the Lake as you spot wildlife and learn about the surrounding islands.
• Rwanda Day Tour (40-250USD) There is plenty of culture and history in the ‘land of a thousand hills’. An East African visa will need to be purchased for this section.

Accommodation: Bunyonyi Overland Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 50

Lake Bunyonyi – Kalinzu Forest Reserve, Uganda

We will travel across the countryside of Uganda today.

Accommodation: Craters Campsite & Country Lodge (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Dinner

Day 51

Kalinzu Forest Reserve – Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda

An early morning rise will enable us to go on a chimpanzee tracking excursion after which we will visit a tea plantation where a local guide will inform you about the varieties of tea and the farming process before making our way to Lake Mburo. Enjoy an optional boat cruise on the lake in the afternoon.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 52

Eldoret – Nairobi, Kenya

Our tour ends after we have safely arrived in Nairobi in the late afternoon.

Meals: Breakfast

Day 53

Jinja

Spend time exploring Jinja and taking part in activities such as Quad Biking along the banks of the Nile (99USD) or Mountain Biking in the Mabira Forest (45USD).

Accommodation: Nile River Explorers River Camp (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 54

Jinja – Eldoret

We will cross over into Kenya for a night in Eldoret which is an overnight stop to break the long driving days.

Accommodation: Greenwoods Resort and Campsite (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 55

Eldoret – Nairobi, Kenya

Our tour ends after we have safely arrived in Nairobi in the late afternoon.

Meals: Breakfast

Onward Travel Plans

Due to on the road variable beyond our control (such as border crossings, traffic, delays, etc) on the tours. The end time on the last day can’t be guaranteed and therefore we strongly recommend you stay the night and fly out the next day. Please consult with your booking consultant.