Cape Town to Zanzibar Tour (Comfort)

Day 1

Cape Town – Cederberg Region, South Africa

Leaving Cape Town this morning, we stop and take a look at Table Mountain from across Table Bay before making our way to the Cederberg region. On route we stop at a traditional “Padstal” that sells homemade treats and bakes. Boasting some of the most picturesque mountains and orange farms, Cederberg is also home to the Rooibos tea farm which is world renowned for it’s health benefits and unique taste. We enjoy dinner at our overnight stop where we have an opportunity to experience South African hospitality at it’s best.

The Cederberg Mountains and nature reserve are situated nearby Clanwilliam. They were named after the endangered ancient Clanwilliam Cedar trees which are indigenous to the area, growing up to heights of over 1500 metres. The mountains spread up to 50 kilometres both north and south, and up to 20 kilometres both east and west with the highest summit within the range being Sneeuberg at 2028 metres. This region comprises of intense sandstone rock formations, usually various shades of red in colour. The Cederberg Wilderness Area is renowned for containing incredible ancient San rock art. It is also well-known for the discovery of significant fossils, specifically within recent years. These fossils are of primitive fish and can be dated back almost 450 million years to the Ordovician Period.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Marcuskraal
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Cape Town to Citrusdal
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Traditional Dinner

Day 2

Namaqualand – Gariep (Orange) River, South Africa

Today we journey through the Northern Cape and Namaqualand, making a stop off at the isolated town of Springbok to gather a few last minute supplies. Once we have crossed the Namibian border, we arrive at our charming chalets that overlook the sparkling Orange River which creates a natural divider between South Africa and Namibia. For those travelling during the spring months (July – September) you may experience the wild flowers renowned in this region.

Originally called the Nu Gariep (‘Great River’) by the native Nama people, the Orange River was renamed by Colonel Robert Gordon – a Dutch explorer who once commanded the Cape garrison for several years. It is said that Gordon named the river in honour of William of Orange, but a more popular belief is that it was simply named so because of its colour. Presently, it is known by its original name (Gariep River) and it the longest river throughout South Africa, stretching to a distance of 1800 kilometres. Rising in the Drakensberg mountains in Lesotho, where it is known as Sengu, it flows west through South Africa and out into the Atlantic Ocean once it reaches Alexander Bay. On its lengthy voyage, the river boasts a wide selection of beautiful landscapes. It passes through rough mountainous terrains and never-ending dune fields. The Orange forms part of the international border that runs between South Africa and Namibia, South Africa and Lesotho, and numerous provincial borders within South Africa.

Though the river does not run through any main cities, it plays a crucial role within the economy of South Africa by providing water to be used for irrigation and hydroelectric power. The Orange River is also responsible for diamond deposits all along the coast of Namibia. For millions of years this river acted as a transportation system that took diamonds from volcanic pipes within Kimberley, South Africa out into the ocean. From here, currents would take the diamonds north where the surf would catch them and place them into the Namib dune fields.

Accommodation: Two per room: Felix Unite Cabanas or Norotshama Resort 
Facilities: En-suites facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Citrusdal to Orange River
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Spring Wild Flowers (Seasonal July – September)
Border Post South Africa: Vioolsdrift, Tel: +27 (27) 277 618 760, Open 24 hours. Namibia: Noordoewer, Tel: +264 (0) 63 297 122, Open 24 hours.

Day 3

Namibia – Gariep (Orange) River, South Africa

We have an opportunity to partake in an optional canoe trip down the Gariep River this morning, or we could choose to stay behind and devote our time to relax and unwind next to the river. Later in the day, we make our way back to Ai-Ais to check in to our lodging for the night and to delight in the marvellous hot springs offered by our resort.

Meaning ‘burning water’ in the local language of Nama, Ai-Ais refers to the sulphurous thermal hot water springs situated at the bottom of the mountains and at Fish River Canyon’s southern end. The Ai-Ais (pronounced ‘eye-ice’) springs originate from deep beneath the river bed and create a haven in this extremely dry area. The hot springs were used by the German military troops as a base camp during the Nama uprising. This area was once again used as a base in 1915 by South African troops who were healing from injuries incurred during the South-West Africa Campaign. The springs were declared national monuments in the 1960s and subsequently became a conservation area. The Ai-Ais camp was officially opened on the 16th of March, 1971. The hot water, heavy with sulphur, chloride and fluoride, has an average temperature of approximately 60 degrees Celsius and is known to be a relaxing curative.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Ai Ais Resort or Canyon Roadhouse or Hobas
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Orange/Gariep River to Ai-Ais
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Ais-Ais Hot springs
Optional Activity: Half-day canoe trip

Day 4

Fish River Canyon, Quiver Tree Forest and Giants Playground, Namibia

Waking early this morning, we drive to the rim of the Fish River Canyon enjoying the beautiful sunrise in this magical piece of land. We also enjoy a walk along the rim of the canyon before making our way to Keetmanshoop. The afternoon is spent exploring the magnificent Quiver Tree Forest and the Giants Playground.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Schutzenhaus Guesthouse
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route : Fish River Canyon to Keetmanshoop
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlights: Scenic walk along the rim of Fish River Canyon / Visit to Quiver Tree Forest and Giants Playground

Day 5

Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia

Every journey has long travelling days and today we will venture deep into the Namib Desert. We make our way from the grasslands to the red dunes that cover the western reaches of the desert. Our accommodation this evening is at the tip of the dune fields where we enjoy the unique sounds of the Barking Gecko as we fall asleep.

Accommodation: Two Per Room Hammerstein Lodge or Weltevrede Guest Farm 
Facilities: En Suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Keetmanshoop to Namib Naukluft National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6

Sossusvlei Dunes – Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia

We begin our day climbing Dune 45 enjoying the magnificent views before making our way back down for a delicious breakfast. We hop onto a 4×4 and are transferred to Sossusvlei where you will embark on a walk through the salt pans at Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. Tonight we spend some time admiring the breathtaking view of the desert stars.

Accommodation: Two Per Room : Boesman’s Camp(no website) or Weltevrede Guest Farm 
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight:  Hike up Dune 45, 4×4 shuttle to Sossusvlei / Deadvlei /Sesriem Canyon

Day 7 - 8

Swakopmund

Today we enjoy an educational desert excursion with our local guide before leaving the Namib and crossing the Tropic of Capricorn on the way from the Atlantic Coast. Continuing our journey in the Namib Naukluft National Park, we immerse ourselves in the natural surroundings as we stop at a desert waterhole to spot some desert game quenching their thirst. Following our time in the Namib Desert, we turn west and head into the sunset to our next destination, the bustling coastal town of Swakopmund, where adventure awaits along with a welcome taste of civilization. As soon as we arrive in Swakopmund, we will be given the opportunity to choose from a variety of thrilling adventures. In the evening, we’ll go out for dinner at a local restaurant.

The following day is free to enjoy and participate in the multiple adventure activities available here. You can also spend your time exploring the city at leisure or simply enjoy some shopping before venturing to our next destination.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Haus Garnison  or Amanpuri Travellers Lodge or Stay@Swakop
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Namiba Naukluft National Park to Swakopmund
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Tropic of Capricorn, Guided desert walk with local expert (this activity could take place the day before in the afternoon),, Local restaurant dinner
Optional Activity: Dolphin cruise, Skydiving, Sandboarding, Quad biking

Day 9

Swakopmund – Khorixas, Namibia

A trip north will take us further into the desert, where hot desert sands meet the cold waves of the Atlantic Ocean. After arriving at Wlotskabaken, we will stop for a photo opportunity before proceeding to the Lichen Fields where your guide will provide a brief description of the Lichen Colonies. After visiting the Seal Colony at Cape Cross, which is known as the largest in the world with over 200,000 Cape Fur Seals, we will proceed to the famous Seal Colony at Cape York. The Cape Cross monument was erected by explorer Diego Cao in honour of the then king of Portugal, the first European explorer to set foot on the coast of Namibia in 1486. There may be times when the Cape Cross Colony is inaccessible, so we will not be able to see the seals.)

Continuing on, the road takes us to the Khorixas area with a local guide, where we will see Twyfelfontein Rock Engravings and the Petrified Forest. The Khoi San have inhabited this area for more than 6000 years.  Shamanism was practiced at this site by these inhabitants. The process resulted in the creation of more than 2500 rock paintings.  A large concentration of rock petroglyphs can be found at this site.  As part of the tour, we will also visit the Petrified Forest, a national monument that contains fossilized tree trunks dating back to prehistoric times. It was created by the washing down of great tree trunks in a river and their subsequent deposit in alluvial sands during prehistoric times.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: NWR: Khorixas or iGowati Country Hotel 
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Swakopmund to Khorixas (via Cape Cross)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Seal Colony at Cape Cross, Petrified Forest, Twyfelfontein Rock Engravings

Day 10

Khorixas –  Etosha National Park, Namibia

One of Africa’s finest game parks, Etosha is home to vast salt pans, savannas, and woodlands. One of the largest parks in Southern Africa, it occupies an area of 18 000 square kilometers. Our afternoon will be spent exploring Etosha in the truck, which means “great white area” in the Etosha language.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: NWR: Okuakuejo or Etosha Village
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Khorixas to Etosha National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Afternoon game drive in the vehicle

Day 11 - 12

Etosha National Park, Namibia

As we continue our exploration of Etosha on our second day, we have a full day available to us. During a safari, there is never a dull moment, and the suspense before that special sighting is what motivates us to remain alert and alert.  In search of the abundant wildlife in Etosha Pan, we explore its edges.

The third day of our trip to Etosha will be a leisurely one for you.  Spend some time at the waterhole watching the animals arrive for their morning drink of water or climb the Okaukuejo tower to watch the sun rise.  In the afternoon, we depart for our next Etosha camp – Namutoni, and enjoy a game drive on the way there.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Camp: Okaukuejo or Etosha Village (first night) or NWR: Namutoni or Halali (second night)
Facilities: En-suites facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Etosha National Park (Okaukuejo rest camp to Namutoni rest camp)
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2
Included Highlight: Full day and Afternoon Game Drive

Day 13

Etosha National Park – Divundu, Namibia

Our overnight stop in Divundu will take us away from the white sands of Etosha and towards the Kavango River.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Mahangu or Shametu River Lodge 
Facilities: En-suites facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Etosha National Park to Divundu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14

Divundu – Maun, Namibia

A leisurely boat cruise on the beautiful Kavango River is enjoyed prior to departing for Maun.  Our next stop is Botswana, where we will head towards Maun, the gateway to the Okavango Delta. During our overnight stay in Maun, we prepare for our next adventure – a visit to the Okavango Delta.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Sedia or Island Safari Lodge 
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Divundu to Maun
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Morning Boat Cruise
Border Post: Namibia: Mohembo Tel:, Open: 07h00-24h00, Botswana: Mohembo, Tel:, Open: 07h00-24h00

Day 15 - 16

Khwai Conservation Area – Moremi Game Reserve , Botswana

During the next two nights, you will be separated from your truck, so it is imperative that you pack/gather your personal belongings for our departure from Maun.  We recommend that you pack lightly and take only what you will need for the next two nights.  Our journey today takes us to the Okavango Delta. A scenic flight over the Delta will be available as an optional activity for early risers (weather permitting). The Khwai Conservation Area will be visited after you have taken your optional flight from Maun. Smaller safari-type vehicles will be used to transport you to the area following your flight.  During our afternoon mokoro excursion into the Okavango Delta, our guide will prepare us for what to expect.

The Moremi Game Reserve is the setting for our full day game drive today, as we strive to track the animals roaming the plains. In our 4×4 vehicles, we will traverse some bumpy roads in this wilderness area. Our goal is to see as many species of fauna and flora as possible by providing habitats including wetland, open water, grasslands, and Savannah woodland. The night will be spent at Khwai sharing and comparing all the wonderful sightings we witnessed on safari.

Accommodation: Two per permanent Tent: Khwai Tented Camp (no website available)
Facilities: En suite facilities
Route: Maun to Khwai Conservation area to Moremi Game Reserve
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2
Included Highlight:  Sunset Mokoro Excursion, Full Day Game Drive Moremi Game Reserve
Optional Activity: Okavango Delta scenic flight

Day 17

Khwai to Nata, Botswana

The journey from Khwai to Nata today passes through the Botswanan salt pans.  Once you have packed up camp and started driving the open 4×4 safari vehicles, you will meet the overland truck in Maun at first light.  Botswana’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage are revealed as one drives from Maun to Nata along the scenic route. Before reaching your overnight destination in Nata, keep your eyes peeled as there is always the possibility of encountering wildlife.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Nata Lodge or Elephant Sands Lodge 
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Khwai Conservation Area to Nata (long day)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 18

Nata to Kasane – Chobe National Park, Botswana

We enjoy a guided drive around the Nata pans this morning, where thousands of water birds breed, including pelicans and flamingos. After the guided excursion we then make our way to Kasane to our camp situated on the banks of the Chobe River. Our afternoon is spent exploring the Chobe National Park. We are treated to a relaxing sunset river cruise on the Chobe River (situated within the National Park) when we will be able to spot plenty of beautiful animals on the riverbanks, such as hippo, buffalo and elephants. We end the evening with a delicious meal around a fire.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Thebe River Lodge
Facilities: En-suites facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Nata to Kasane
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Morning Pans excursion, Chobe National Park Boat Cruise

Day 19 - 20

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe – Livingstone, Zambia

In the morning, we cross the border into Zimbabwe and travel the short distance to Victoria Falls with the memories of our wildlife encounters firmly etched in our minds. During your visit to Victoria Falls today, you will have the opportunity to experience the spectacular Waterfalls, known locally as Mosi-oa Tunya (the smoke that thunders). While much of 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. Additionally, craft markets and coffee shops are available for those seeking a more relaxed travel experience.

Taking advantage of the many activities that are available in Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) and Livingstone (Zambia), today offers the ideal opportunity to go on the adventure that best suits your interests. Whether rafting the mighty Zambezi River or enjoying a flight over the Falls, this is your day to enjoy the many attractions on offer in Victoria Falls.  As your tour continues tomorrow from Livingstone, your accommodation for tonight has been booked in Livingstone.  You can however spend the day in Victoria Falls and transfer over to Livingstone in the late afternoon.  The transfer from Victoria Falls to Livingstone is included in your tour.  Depending on your preference, you can book an early morning (08:00) or late afternoon (16:00) transfer.  At the time of booking, please inform your booking agent of your preferred time.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Shearwater Explorers Village (Day 1), Victoria Falls Waterfront, Livingstone, Zambia (Day 2)
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch
Route: Kasane to Victoria Falls
Optional Activity: Victoria Falls National Park Entry, Zambezi Sunset Cruise, Bungee Jump, Helicopter Flights, White Water Rafting
Border Post: Botswana: Kazangula Road, Tel: +267 62 50320 / Open: 06h00-20h00, Zimbabwe: Kzangula Road, Open: 06h00-20h00

Day 21

Lusaka, Zambia

We travel toward the lively city of Lusaka, Zambia’s capital. We get our first look at the mighty Victoria Falls when we cross the bridge between Zambia and Zimbabwe. You will note that the flora becomes progressively tropical as we journey forth, and the roads become a bit rougher. During our journey we experience colourful markets and busy villages and upon arrival we enjoy a prepared meal and are briefed on the days ahead.

The capital and biggest city of Zambia, Lusaka has two primary spoken languages – English and Nyanja. It is situated in the southern region of the central plateau of Zambia at a height of 1300 metres and boasts a population of approximately 1.7 million. With one of the most rapidly developing city centres in Africa, Lusaka is situated in a prolific farming region and is Zambia’s administrative, financial and commercial centre. It is believed that with proper and effective economic improvements, Lusaka (as well as Zambia as a whole) will advance significantly. Lusaka is home to a varied community of foreigners, many of whom work in the aid industry, as well as diplomats, representatives of religious societies and several business people.

Lusaka was named after it’s headman, and is situated at Manda Hill; close by to where the National Assembly building is established. The area was extended by European settlers in 1905 with the construction of the railway. During 1935, Lusaka was selected to replace Livingstone as the capital of the British colony of northern Rhodesia, due to it’s relatively central location on the railway. After the union of northern and southern Rhodesia in 1953, Lusaka became the heart of the independence movement, resulting in the formation of the Republic of Zambia. Zambia became the 9th African state to gain independence from the British colonialists in 1964, following which President Kaunda came into power, with Lusaka as the country’s capital.

Accommodation Two Per Room: Eureka Camp
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Victoria Falls to Lusaka ±480 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: View of Victoria Falls from the Bridge
Border Post: Zimbabwe: Victoria Falls Bridge (no telephone number) Open: 06h00-20h00, Zambia: Victoria Falls Bridge (no telephone number) Open: 06h00-20h00

Day 22

Chirundu, Zambia

Located along the banks of the Kafue River, Chirundu offers many activities that you are free to participate in today.  A full day safari experience in the Lower Zambezi National Park is one of the most popular activities on the Zambezi River. There are also optional activities like a river safari, bird watching, and an excursion to the baobab forest and bat cave that can be arranged.

Accommodation Two Per Room: Gwabi River Lodge
Facilities: En-suites facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Livingstone to Chirundu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Activities: Fishing, Birding, Baobab forest & bat cave, Lower Zambezi National Park game drive, River Safari

Day 23 - 24

Petauke – South Luangwa National Park , Zambia

Today we embark on a lengthy drive through luscious countrysides of Zambia’s capital, Lusaka. We pass over the Luangwa River to Petauke – the gateway to the South Luangwa National Park. Purely African, Zambia is somewhat of an adjustment to the more Western culture we are accustomed to. We stop at Luangwa Market, an exciting marketplace where local Zambian vendors display their products. The display includes masau and masaku, two delectable fruits available throughout the year and renowned for their mouthwatering taste. Further, we observe another array of African curios, including charming miniature hippos, intricately woven baskets, and papyrus carpets that add to the colourful tapestry of this bustling market.

The next day we depart from Petauke to the South Luangwa National Park border where we make our way to the banks of the Luangwa River. A stop at Mulberry Mongoose is in order to view their local jewelry and curios, which are made from organic materials derived from the African bush by local women from South Luangwa. It is in the Chipata area that we see a great deal of cotton production and we also see a glimpse of the creativity of African culture. Enjoy a cold drink and enjoy one of the finest sunsets on the banks of the Luangwa River.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Chimwemwe Executive Lodge (Petauke), Two per Permanent Tents: Wildlife Camp (South Luangwa)
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Chirundu to Petauke, Petauke to South Luangwa National Park
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2
Included Highlight: Market visit, Mulberry Mongoose Curio Visit

Day 25

South Luangwa National Park , Zambia

In the morning you will have a chance to embark on an (optional) game drive or during the dry season (April to December) you can join one of the iconic walking safaris on offer in the park. The South Luangwa National Park is well-known for its large population of leopard and hippo. We end the day with a sunset drive in the park and enjoy a sundowner. If you explore the park at night you may have an opportunity to spot the nocturnal animals you rarely see during the day.

Accommodation: Two Per Permanent Tents: Wildlife Camp
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Sunset Game Drive in South Luangwa National Park
Optional Activity: Safari Walk (seasonal) or Morning Game Drive in South Luangwa

Day 26 - 27

Lake Malawi – Malawi, Malawi

As we board our truck this morning, we head for Malawi, the warm heart of Africa. A unique “on-truck” safari experience takes us through the wonders of the Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, one of the oldest and largest national parks in Malawi, traversing the awe-inspiring landscapes of the park. Watch out for elephants and zebras in the vast plains of the park. It is our intention to spend the evening on the shores of Lake Malawi, the southernmost lake in the East African Rift System. There are more species of fish in this lake than in any other lake in the world, since it is one of the ten largest in the world. The lake extends over 500 kilometers along the western frontier of Malawi, making it one of the ten largest lakes in the world. This natural wonder is our home for the night.

Our focus today is on the lake, and we have reserved this day for you to relax on the shore.  During your free time, you may enjoy reading a book, taking in the sun, or taking part in one of the many recreational activities available. An optional hike to the nearby Dwanbazi Waterfall may be arranged with a local guide if you wish. This waterfall offers a breath-taking view from its summit, and is just a 30-minute drive from Nglala Beach Hotel. There is also the possibility that we will have the opportunity to take a refreshing swim in the pristine waters surrounded by the lush greenery and natural splendor of the surrounding area, depending on the weather.

Accommodation: Two per room: Ngala Beach Lodge
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2
Route: South Luangwa National Park to Lake Malawi
Optional Activity: Waterfall Hike
Border Post: Zambia: Chipata / Nwami, Tel: + 265 622 1652, Open: 06h00-18h00, Malawi: Mchinji, Tel: +265 124 2217, Open: 06h00-18h00

Day 28

Lake Malawi, Malawi

After our overnight on the shores of Lake Malawi, we will be back on the road for most of the day.  In the afternoon, we will participate in a village walk through a nearby village with the help of our guide.  The sunset over the lake can be enjoyed from the beach after the walk.

Accommodation: Two per room: Chitimba 
Facilities: En-suite bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Central Lake Malawi to North Lake Malawi
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2
Included Highlight: Village walk with tour leader

Day 29

Mbeya Region, Malawi

As we leave this morning, we will travel further north in order to reach the Utengule Coffee Lodge, where we will spend the night.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Utengule Coffee Lodge 
Facilities: En-suite bathrooms Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Border Post:  Malawi: Songwe (no telephone), Open: 06h00-18h00, Tanzania (Kasumulu border): Chi’zumulu, Tel: +265 15 357 207, Open: 06h00-18h00

Day 30

Iringa, Tanzania

Departing from Malawi today, a stop will be made at a local coffee plantation before we head to Iringa, where we will be able to see how coffee beans are grown and harvested as well as try some samples before making our way to Tanzania. We ascend out of the Great Rift Valley through some remarkable mountain passes, passing enormous tea plantations in the highlands before eventually arriving at our stop in Iringa.

Tanzania experiences tropical temperatures and, in the highlands, the climate ranges between 10 and 20 degrees Celsius during the cold and hot seasons respectively. The rest of the country has temperatures that seldom drops lower than 20 degrees Celsius. The hottest season is between November and February, reaching temperatures of over 30 degrees, whilst the coldest season occurs between May and August, dropping to below 15 degrees.

Tanzania is a mountainous region in the north east, where Africa’s tallest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro, is located. The Great Lakes of Lake Victoria (Africa’s biggest lake) and Lake Tanganyika (Africa’s deepest lake, famous for its unique fish species) are to the north and west. Central Tanzania comprises of a vast plateau complete with savannas and fruitful land. The eastern shore is hot and humid, with the exotic island of Zanzibar situated just offshore.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Kisolanza Farm
Facilities: En suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Northern Lake Malawi to Iringa
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Activity: Morning Coffee Plantation Visit

Day 31 - 33

Zanzibar Excursion

We wake up early today in order to make our way to Dar es Salaam, where we will board a local ferry that carries us from Dar to Zanzibar. We are transferred to the island’s north region where we will spend time unwinding on the sun-kissed beaches.

While you are staying in Zanzibar we encourage you to explore, snorkel, scuba dive or go on sunset cruises. Explore the many attractions on a rented scooter or unwind on the serene beaches soaking up some sun.

Due to the dominant Islam religion in Zanzibar, conservative clothing should be worn most places except on the beach, where your regular clothes and swimsuits are acceptable. It is recommended that women wear t-shirts and knee-length shorts or skirts in town. The Islamic religion frowns upon the showing of arms above the elbow or legs above the knee. Shoulders should also remain covered and no revealing necklines are acceptable. Men’s clothing is less restrictive, allowing them to wear shirts and shorts. However, on the beach or in our resort, there are no dress codes other than the regular ones adhered to in most pool/public areas.

If you happen to be visiting Zanzibar during the month of fasting (Ramadaan), please speak to your local guide about the customs adhered to during this period. Regular eating times during the day are forbidden and most locals will be sure to make you aware of this. Majority of shops and restaurants will be closed during Ramadan, but it is acceptable as a foreigner to have meals at hotels or resorts. Your guide will be able to inform you of what is appropriate and when.

The main industries of Zanzibar are spices, raffia and tourism. In addition to this, Zanzibar is also home to the extremely endangered species of the Red Colobus Monkey. The word ‘Zanzibar’ was derived from the Persian term ‘zangi-bar’ meaning ‘coast of the blacks’. However, it is believed that the name could have also originated from the Arabic ‘Zayn Z’al Barr’ meaning ‘fair is this land’. ‘Zanzibar’ frequently refers specifically to Unguja Island and is sometimes referred to as the Spice Islands, though this term is more often associated with the Indonesian Maluku Islands.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Africa House Hotel (Day 1), Amaan Bungalows (Day 2 & 3),
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Meals: Breakfast x3, Lunch x3, Dinner x3
Route: Dar es Salaam to Nungwi (Zanzibar), Nungwi to Stone Town
Included Highlight: Zanzibar Excursion, Prison Island boat trip/ Walking Spice Tour
Optional Activities: Fishing, Snorkelling, Scuba Diving, Turtle Sanctuary Visit, Village Tours and more

Day 34

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Today, our travels bring us out of the cool highland area to the hot Indian Ocean coastal city of Dar es Salaam, meaning ‘house of peace’ in Arabic . Dar es Salaam is Tanzania’s economic and trade capital, but inland, Dodoma remains the official capital city. Our tour ends here.

Accommodation: Own Arrangements / Post tour accommodation can be booked through us
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Onward Travel Plans

Due to circumstances beyond our control while on tour (such as border crossings, traffic, breakdowns and delays, etc), the end time on the last day cannot be guaranteed. Therefore we strongly recommend you stay the night and fly out the next day. Please consult with your booking consultant.