The Nairobi to Livingstone Overland provides a comprehensive insight into East Africa’s finest attractions and gives you a glimpse of what Southern Africa has to offer. Our unique itinerary has been carefully mapped to maximise your experience in the time you spend exploring this magnificent continent with us. Experience the rolling hills of the Masai Mara, the flat plains of the Serengeti, the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater and the beauty of Mt Kilimanjaro. Relax on the sun-kissed beaches on the tropical island of Zanzibar before journeying onwards to Victoria Falls, one of nature’s wonders of the world.

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Day 1 - 3

Nairobi – Masai Mara Reserve, Kenya – Nairobi, Kenya

Departing the city early in the morning, we travel back across the Great Rift Valley, this time to the Masai Mara National Reserve, enjoying the splendid views on the way. We travel in small, specialized vehicles, enabling us to have much more intimate wildlife views. Two nights will be spent camping on the edge of the Reserve, giving you time to explore the park on morning and afternoon game drives. The magnificent continent of Africa is represented extremely well by the vast, sweeping plains, the low hanging acacia trees, the abundant fauna and flora and the awe-inspiring view of the horizon.

The ‘Mara’ is crossed each year between the months of July and October by massive herds of wildebeest, zebra and other grazing animals during their migration from the adjoining Serengeti plains toward the southern Tanzania. The length of the animals’ stay is dependent on rainfall and subsequent grass growth throughout the rainy season. Predators, such as lion, cheetah and leopard as well as scavengers, such as hyena and vultures, shadow the grazing animals in wait. This enormously spectacular congregation of wildlife forms a fantastic display of Africa’s natural resources and inhabitants. This being said, however, the Mara is still excellent for game viewing at most any time of year and, regardless of when you can visit, we aim to see as many of Africa’s ‘Big Five’ as possible (elephant, lion, rhino, buffalo and leopard) as well as an array of other wildlife.

It is from the Mara that we return to Nairobi where we will usually camp overnight.

Trip Highlights: Great Rift Valley, Masai Mara Game Reserve, game drives, red robed Masai warriors
Accommodation: Masai Mara – Chronicle Tented Camp, Nairobi – Karen Camp
Meals included: Breakfast x 3, Lunch x 3, Dinner x 2
Distance Covered: +/-300kms
Approximate Driving Time: 5 hours (first day), Full days including game drives (second day), 5 hours (third day)

Day 4

Nairobi – Arusha, Tanzania

At the busy Namanga frontier, we cross the border into Tanzania and in the late afternoon we arrive at Arusha, our destination. Located mid-way between Cape Town and Cairo, Arusha is very much Tanzania’s ‘safari captial’. It is a bustling city with colourful and vibrant markets, shops, vehicles and people, all nestled in the shadow of the towering Mt Meru, a sacred mountain (visible from Mt Kilimanjaro) that is considered to be the centre of all the physical, metaphysical and spiritual universes, reaching 4,565 metres in height.

After we’ve all had a chance to explore the curio markets, we head to our camp situated just outside of Arusha, on the open plains to the west of the city. From here, we prepare for our two night/three day expedition to the Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater that was formed when a massive volcano exploded and collapsed in on itself some two or three million years ago. There will also be an Optional Activity and Excursion in which you can partake. Your tour leader will offer these extras to all on the tour as well as take payment for them.

Trip Highlights: Arusha, Mt Meru, Meserani Snake Park
Accommodation: Meserani Snake Park – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance Covered: +/-270kms
Approximate Driving Time: 5 hours

Day 5 - 7

Serengeti National Park – Ngorongoro Crater – Arusha, Meserani Snake Park, Tanzania

On the first day we switch to safari vehicles and drive west across the Great Rift Valley, passing through Mto Wa Mbo (‘Mosquito Creek’) and entering the Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area. Passing into the park, we drive around the Crater’s rim down onto the plains of the Serengeti. A luscious green after the rains and brown and burnt in the droughts, this is home to a vast variety of grazing animals, predators and birdlife. Flatter and larger than the Masai Mara, the Serengeti is enormous. In fact, the name derives from the Masai word Siringitu, meaning ‘the place where the land moves on forever’. Here, game viewing is a fabulous activity and spending your nights sleeping in the designated but unfenced campsite where lion and hyena roam freely, is an enthralling and extremely memorable experience.

On second day, we leave the plains, game driving en route and, after lunch, we begin to ascend the outer wall of the Ngorongoro Crater. It is here that we spend the night camping on the rim, where wildlife runs free and where you will definitely need a warm jacket to combat the cold night air.The Ngorongoro, at 326 square kilometres in area, is Africa’s largest intact crater as well as a World Heritage Site. The spectacular view from the rim that is 2400 metres above sea level makes the site from the Crater floor even more enjoyable at approximately 600 metres below sea level. All of the major mammals can be seen here, except for the giraffe (who cannot manage the steep slopes leading downward to the floor of the Crater). We descend the almost vertical dirt roads for a morning of game driving and stop for lunch at the top of the Crater for one last magnificent view over the Ngorongoro before heading back to our camp at Arusha.

On the third day we make our way down the steep dirt road of the Ngorongoro Crater to view some game. There is plenty of wildlife to be seen here, except for giraffes who find the slopes too steep. We then go back to the top of the crater for a last chance to take in the spectacular view. Back at camp we pack up and have lunch before heading back to Arushsa and our campsite at Meserani Snake Park, where we will stay for the night.

Accommodation: Serengeti National Park (first day), Simba Camp (second day), Meserani Snake Park (third day)
Meals included: Breakfast x 3, Lunch x 3, Dinner x 3
Distance Covered: +/-250kms each way on first and third day
Approximate Driving Time: Full days including game drives
Optional Activities: Serengeti Balloon Flight –from US$550

Day 8

Arusha – Bagamoyo, Tanzania

When morning arrives, we enjoy a stroll to one of the local Masai villages to gain some insight into the everyday life and traditions of this rich and vibrant culture before making our way to Bagamoyo via Moshi. Should the weather be clear, we will be granted a view of the incredible snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro – a dormant volcanic mountain that has gained the title of Africa’s highest peak at 5895m. Our camp for the evening is a short distance from the palm fringed beaches of the Indian Ocean.

Trip Highlights: Glimpses of Mt Kilimanjaro
Accommodation: Fire Fly Camp – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance Covered: +/-560ms
Approximate Driving Time: 9 hours

Day 9

Bagamoyo – Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Departing from Bagamoyo, we head south to Dar es Salaam, towards the Indian Ocean. Dar es Salaam is the largest and richest city in Tanzania as well as a regionally important economic centre. It is Tanzania’s main port and is a hub for commerce and industry – a hot, humid and lively seaport city peppered with high rises, vibrant markets and Arab-influenced architecture. To most travellers though, Dar es Salaam is the port of call to the more exotic island of Zanzibar and other Archipelago islands. Our camp for the evening will be set up on the beach just outside of the city. Here we have a chance to take in the gentle sea breezes of the Indian Ocean and to prepare ourselves for our impending trip to Zanzibar.

Trip Highlights: Dar es Salaam, Indian Ocean beach
Accommodation: Kipepeo Beach Resort – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance Covered: +/- 60 kms
Approximate Driving Time: 2 – 3 hours

Day 10 - 12

Zanzibar

The other history of Zanzibar is not romantic. The island was once also a staging post for slaves purchased from the African interior being detained before shipping to Middle Eastern slave owners. The places where these men and women were held can still be seen and even the shortest visit is enough to convey the atrocious conditions they were forced to endure. On a lighter note though Zanzibar is also home of the Zanzibar Colobus Monkey, the Zanzibar Servaline Genet and the possibly extinct Zanzibar Leopard.

Our time spent in Zanzibar is not structured and your time is at leisure. One of the best ways to see Stone Town is simply on foot, where you can explore the bazaars for old maritime trinkets and cloths. You can also partake in activities such as visiting mosques, palaces, courtyards and alleyways of the old town. Spices such as nutmeg, cinnamon and black pepper are grown in nearby plantations of which you are encouraged to take day tours where you are free to have your senses dazzled by the tastes and scents available to experience. If you’re the kind of person who leans more toward leisure time spent on the beach, you’re always free to enjoy the white sand and sparkling ocean and to simply soak up the sun’s rays. If you’re looking for a good swim or dip in the sea, head out to the northern beaches to experience the warm and inviting Indian Ocean at its best where you can try your hand at snorkelling and diving, indulge in some tasty, lavish seafood or just relax beneath a coconut palm with a cocktail and good book in hand.

PLEASE NOTE: Because we leave the truck on the mainland, basic tourist class accommodation and breakfast in Zanzibar is included in the tour price but for the sake of flexibility, lunches and dinners are left for your own account. Usually we spend one night in Stone Town and the following two evenings in the north of the island at one of the beaches. Your Tour Leader will be able to assist should you experience any problems whatsoever.

Trip Highlights: Ferry to Zanzibar, Stone Town, Northern beaches, optional Zanzibar activities
Accommodation: 1 night Stone Town – Safari Lodge or similar – twin/ triple rooms with en-suite facilities, 2 nights Kendwa Northern beaches – Sunset Bungalows or similar – twin/ triple rooms with en-suite facilities
Meals included: Breakfast included with hotel accommodation
Distance Covered: Ferry crossing
Optional Activities: Spice Tour US$30, Scuba Diving local US$130, Slave markets US$15, Arabic Fort US$10, Palace Museum US10 , Mnemba Island US$170, Dhow snorkelling safaris From US$65, massages from US$15

Day 13

Zanzibar – Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

The morning gives us time to complete any last minute shopping or to enjoy one last swim before hopping on the ferry that takes us back to the African mainland and Dar es Salaam. From there, it’s onward to our campsite on the coast for the evening.

Trip Highlights: Zanzibar, Zanzibar ferry, Indian Ocean beach
Accommodation: Kipepeo Village – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Distance Covered: Ferry crossing

Day 14

Dar es Salaam – Mikumi National Park Area, Tanzania

Leaving the warm Atlantic coast and bustling city of Dar es Salaam behind, we drive inland to Iringa. This route runs through the Mikumi National Park. Our campsite is located near the park entrance. If time allows it, you can go on an optional game drive.

Trip Highlights: Tanzania Highlands
Accommodation: Tan-Swiss Lodge – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Distance Covered: +/-290kms
Approximate Driving Time: 4 hours
Optional Activities: Mikumi Game Dive US$150

Day 15

Mikumi – Iringa, Tanzania

After breakfast we head off for Kisolanza Farm at an altitude of 1600m, ensuring a pleasant crisp and fresh climate in one of the most scenic areas the Southern Highlands of Tanzania has to offer. Kisolanza has been home to the Ghaui family for over 70 years and remains a working farm providing organic meat and vegetables to surrounding markets as well as the city of Dar es Salaam. Kisolanza Farm House is famous for their marvellous hot showers, delectable chocolate brownies, and hot chocolate and Amarula drink that can be purchased at their quaint candlelit bar.

PLEASE NOTE: The crew may make alterations to the published itinerary. Therefore, please treat the Malawi section of the itinerary as a guideline only.

Accommodation: Kisolanza Farm House – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance Covered: +/-220kms
Approximate Driving Time: 4 hours

Day 16 - 17

Iringa – Chitimba Beach, Malawi

Following our last night in Tanzania, we head through abundant mountain passes, rich grazing land, and banana and tea plantations towards the Songwe border post and into Malawi. Our first night will be spent at Chitimba Beach Campsite.

Formally ‘Lake Nyasa’, Lake Malawi covers almost an entire fifth of the country’s area and provides the source of livelihood for majority of the Malawi people. Fishermen, fish traders, and canoe and net makers all ply their trades here, and a common sight is that of a fisherman in his Bwato (dugout canoe made from hollowed out tree trunk) fishing on the lake at the break of day. The lake has the highest number of endemic freshwater fish species of any in the world.

Here you are free to enjoy your time on the beach or shop at a large curio market where you can put your bargaining skills to the test buying some of Malawi’s famous ornate and carved chairs or do a full day trip to Manchewe Falls – After a 11km hike, you find yourself cooling down in a natural bath. If you’re up for more of an adventure, you can always hike to Livingstonia – a small village above the lake on the Nyika Plateau. You should be aware beforehand, however, that this hike is a relatively long one (+/- 15kms, or 3 hours one way), but being witness to a village that is seemingly lost in time due to the difficulty to reach it is well worth the effort.

PLEASE NOTE: The crew may make alterations to the published itinerary. Therefore, please treat the Malawi section of the itinerary as a guideline only.

Trip Highlights: Lake Malawi beach, curio market, Livingstonia hike option
Accommodation: Chitimba Beach Camp – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2
Distance Covered: +/-550kms
Approximate Driving Time: 11 hours
Optional Activities: Livnigstonia day hike US10

Day 18 - 19

Kande Beach, Malawi

After a peaceful morning, we embark on a scenic drive to Mzuzu, the capital of the northern region and the third largest town in Malawi, where we stop for a short while to gather supplies and to take a look at the markets before we arrive in Kande Beach. Some of the optional activities here include horse riding or simply relaxing and enjoying the fresh waters of Lake Malawi. This leg of the trip also allows you the opportunity to meet the locals who are generally known as amongst the friendliest people in Africa. Spend the following day participating in some of the water sports available here such as snorkelling, and diving. Or feel free to spend the day relaxing and enjoying the fresh waters of Lake Malawi

Trip Highlights: Mzuzu, Lake Malawi, Kande Beach, optional activities, Cultural interaction
Accommodation: Kande Beach Camp – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast x 2, Lunch x 2, Dinner x 2
Distance Covered: +/-240kms
Approximate Driving Time: 5 hours
Optional Activities: Horse riding US$45, Village walk US$7

Day 20

Kande Beach – Chipata, Zambia

Saying our goodbyes to the beautiful Lake Malawi, we head for Lilongwe (the capital) to grab some supplies for our onward journey to Zambia. Here is your chance to spend your remaining Malawi Kwacha currency before crossing the Zambian border. Formally named Fort Jameson, Chipata has a population of about 98,416 and is the capital of the Eastern Province of Zambia. This unique town offers colourful fruit and vegetable markets as well as an unexpected amount of ornate temples due to its large Indian community. If time is on our side, hopefully we will be able to make a stop in Chipata before arriving at our campsite that is situated a short distance from the town centre.

Trip Highlights: Lilongwe, Chipata
Accommodation: Mama Rula’s Camp  – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Distance Covered: +/-440 kms
Approximate Driving Time: 9 hours

Day 21

Chipata – Lusaka, Zambia

Leaving early, we take the Great Eastern Road through lush country and small villages, crossing the Luangwa River to Zambia’s capital. Lusaka is Southern Africa’s fastest growing city, boasting a population of approximately 1.7 million people and is situated on the southern plateau at an elevation of 1300m with four main highways running north, south, east and west – each to different parts of Africa. This city is the commercial hub as well as the centre for the government. The campsite in which we reside tonight, Eureka Camp, is located on a tranquil setting on a farm. Here you will be able to see roaming zebras, ostriches, giraffes and antelopes around the outskirts of the main camping area.

Accommodation: Eureka Camp -Camping twin share tents with shared faclities
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance Covered: +/-620kms
Approximate Driving Time: 12 hours

Day 22

Lusaka – Livingstone, Zambia

At the start of the day, we head south toward Livingstone and set up camp at the Waterfront campsite located on the banks of the Zambezi River which is just a few kilometres from Victoria Falls. We make a visit to the Victoria Falls and at various times of the year, the spray from this mighty waterfall can be seen from up to 30 kilometres away, hence the local name Mosi au Tunya meaning ‘the smoke that thunders’. Amongst the excitement of this excursion, try not to forget your raincoat to protect you and your camera from splashes of water.

The campsite itself is tremendous and it is there that we will be treated to a full briefing that provides any information on all activities in the area (including rafting, canoeing, bungee jumping, abseiling, gorge swinging, elephant and horse riding, scenic flights, river cruises, etc.), allowing you to plan your time accordingly over the next four nights.

PLEASE NOTE: For the sake of practicality, meals in the Livingstone area are restricted to breakfasts only. This allows you to take on half or full day activities (several of which include lunch) without being rushed back to camp for group mealtimes. The Waterfront camp restaurant overlooks the stunning Zambezi River and offers a fine selection of reasonably priced meals and snacks throughout the day (allow US $15 – $30 per meal). Relax and enjoy these couple of days at your own leisure or, alternatively, feel free to catch a taxi or free shuttle into Livingstone.

Trip Highlights: Victoria Falls visit, Zambezi River
Accommodation: Waterfront – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Distance Covered: +/-520kms
Approximate Driving Time: 10 hours
Optional Activities: (prices approx) Bungee jumping US$160, Full day abseil US$180, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, game walk US$110, Chief Mukumi village tour US$50, gorge swing US$95, Zambezi jet boat and cable car US$120, Half day canoe US$110, Zambezi sunset cruise US$85, Full day white water rafting US$160, Helicopter/ Microlight flights From US$ 170, half day fishing US$145, Bridge Tour US$65.

Day 23 - 24

Livingstone, Zambia

During these days you are free to explore the Victoria Falls area to the full. Apart from the long list of adventure activities available, ensure that you take time out to browse through the bustling markets and museum in nearby Livingstone. You could also spend some time here volunteering a day for a local charity project, adventuring on a day trip to the Victoria Falls township in Zimbabwe, or simply unwinding on the gorgeous campsite deck while watching the water of the Zambezi River flow swiftly past on its way through to Victoria Falls. The Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park surrounds our campsite, so for those adventurers wanting more game drives, these are available right on your doorstep. Here, you will have the chance to watch elephants crossing through the Zambezi River from Zimbabwe, along with herds of buffalo, giraffe, white rhino, eland, warthog, hippo and even a vast variety of different monkey species.

Trip Highlights: Optional activities galore!
Accommodation: Waterfront – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast x 2
Approximate Driving Time: None
Optional Activities: Bungee jumping US$160, Full day abseil US$180, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, game walk US$110, Chief Mukumi village tour US$50, gorge swing US$95, Zambezi jet boat and cable car US$120, Half day canoe US$110, Zambezi sunset cruise US$85, Full day white water rafting US$160, Helicopter/ Microlight flights From US$ 170, half day fishing US$145, Bridge Tour US$65.

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