Trip type: Small Group (max 22 passengers)
Transport: Lando (Overland adventure vehicle)
Please note that this is a combination tour. Some group members may be departing the tour in Windhoek and some new group members may be joining. Enjoy an optional group dinner with both old and new travellers.
Accommodations: participation camping (39 nights), simple hotels (5 nights), permanent tented camp (3 nights), hostels (3 nights), full service camping (2 nights), basic bush camping (2 nights).
Meals: 50 breakfasts, 44 lunches, 37 dinners (allow USD 330 to 430 for meals not included)
Staff and experts: 2 Chief Experience Officers throughout as head guide/cook and driver, certified safari guides/drivers, camp crew, certified mountain gorilla trackers, local guides.
Day 1: Cape Town. Arrive at anytime. Tonight, get to know your group on your first night out together in Cape Town. After a brief welcome meeting and optional dinner out together, head to the clubs on Long Street to explore the vibrant nightlife. Put those dancing shoes on and get to know your fellow travel buddies as the adventure begins!
Accommodation: Never at Home hostel
Optional Activities - Day 1: South African wine tour and tasting, Two Oceans Aquarium (220 ZAR per person), Table Mountain cable car (300 - 390 ZAR per person), Table Mountain hike (720 - 1700 ZAR per person), Boulders Beach visit (170 ZAR per person)
Day 2: Cape Town/Cederberg. Hit the road in style in the Lando and view the stunning Western Cape scenery as the group travels to the G adventures supported !Khwa ttu San Culture and education centre. Here you will learn about the history and culture of the ancient Sans People and be able to directly help this centre preserve that heritage. In the afternoon the group will arrive at your first campsite where you can enjoy free time to sip on some local wine or simply chill out by the campsites swimming pool overlooking the vineyards.
Accommodation: Highlanders campsite
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Optional Activities - Day 2: Wine tasting (140 ZAR per person)
Day 3: Cederberg/Orange River. travel further north past large plantations of Rooibos tea. You will be camping at the scenic Orange River for the night, where you can kick back, relax, reflect and enjoy a late afternoon swim in the river. If you are still in need of some activity choose to book a canoe excursion on the river. Other than that your only job today is to enjoy yourself and have a relaxing time.
Accommodation: Fiddlers Creek Rest Camp.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Optional Activities - Day 3: Canoeing on the Orange River (400 ZAR per person)
Day 4: Orange River/Fish River Canyon. Yes, we know you could stay at the oasis of the Orange River for much longer than one night, but this group have things to do and places to see so get a move on and cross another country off of those travel lists as the group heads over the border into Namibia. The next stop is Fish River Canyon, the largest canyon in Africa and arguably the second largest in the world. Hop off the Lando, do some stretches, take in the majestic beauty of the canyon and together watch as the vibrant sunset slips over the canyon's rim. Then it's on to camp to enjoy each others company around the campfire as the stars begin to rise.
Accommodation: Hobas Lodge - campsite
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Day 5: Fish River Canyon/Namib Desert. While the group has a lot of ground to cover today, don't let that daunt you. You have been so on the go lately you won't mind the rest of a long drive (besides by now you probably have loads to talk about with everyone). Pass by the small and desolate towns of Bethanien and Helmeringhausen and continue north along long and bumpy roads, en route to the Namib Desert. Then, embrace the bizarreness of this environment by really taking the time to enjoy it. The group will arrive in the area in the late afternoon, where the towering red sand dunes of Sossusvlei make you really feel as if your in the middle of nowhere. Set up camp and get some rest for the fun days ahead.
Accommodation: Sossus Oasis Camp
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 6: Namib Desert. Delve into the heart of Namibia's desert landscapes and begin the day at dawn. Aborb the serene beauty of sunrise from atop the iconic Dune 45. As the golden light washes over the desert, you will climb the dune for breathtaking views before the day heats up. Next, venture to the surreal Deadvlei for an optional excursion to this mesmerising clay pan, framed by some of the worlds tallest sand dunes; a photographers paradise (the shuttle to Deadvlei is an additional cost). After soaking in the deserts raw beauty, retreat to the cooler confines of Sesriem Canyon. Wander through this natural wonder in the afternoon when the shade provides a respite from the sun. Learn about the canyon's formation and discover hidden pools that sustain wildlife in this arid region. Conclude your day with a scenic drive, if time allows, stopping at the quaint town of Solitaire, ,before settling in at the campsite. Here, you may opt for an evening activity: "Namib Desert Walk". This activity is an educational experience about bushmen's survival in the desert, the geology of sand dunes and local wildlife and ends with a beautiful desert sunset.
Accommodation: Sossus on Foot Bushmans Desert Camp
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Optional Activities - Day 6: Namib Desert Walk (320 NAD per person)
Day 7: Namib Desert/Swakopmund. Bid farewell to your lovely campsite and zoom off further north in the Lando. Get a real feel for the Namib Desert as the group spends hours crossing this empty region over dry mountain passes to get to the adrenaline capital od Swakopmund. Sandwiched between the Atlantic Ocean and the mighty Namib Desert, this coastal city has strong German heritage which is reflected in the architecture around the town. The group will spend two nights in Swakopmund, so fear not, you have time for all of the fun activities you want to try.
Accommodation: Amanpuri Backpackers
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Day 8: Swakopmund. The day is yours! Grab some friends or set off alone and conquer this outdoor lovers paradise. From skydiving to sandboarding there's no shortage of activities to try. Flip a coin to see which will be your fate or even better try them all.
Accommodation: Amanpuri Backpackers
Meals: Not included - try out many restaurants and bars in town.
Optional Activities - Day 8: Sandboarding in the Namib Desert (700 NAD per person), Swakopmund guided cultural tour (550 NAD per person), Skeleton Coast scenic flight (4800 NAD per person), Swkopmund Skydiving.
Day 9: Swakopmund/Spitzkoppe. Bid farewell to lovely Swakopmund and hop on the Lando as you travel through the coastal region of Namibia towards the granite peaks of Spitzkoppe. What is Spitzkoppe, you ask? Great question! Its been dubbed the Matterhorn of Namibia. But basically if you are the type of person who loves epic climbing, hiking, camping, stargazing, sunrises and sunsets then Spitzkoppe will have a very special place in your heart. Upon arrival the rest of the day is yours to explore as you wish. This mountaineering paradise will have you breaking out of your comfort zone in no time. Scramble up rock faces to get that perfect view, take selfies under the natural rock arch and get some artsy photos as the sun sets. Then after cooking up some grub around the campfire, get ready to see the milky way light up the night sky. Explore on your own by foot, and be sure to check out the night sky - it's great for stargazing.
Accommodation: Spitzkoppe Camp (long drop toilets, no running water)
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 10: Spitzkoppe/Etosha National Park. Wake up and feel like you crash landed on Mars. Gaze in wonder at this wild landscape and let peace wash over you before the group travels to Etosha National Park for some prime wildlife viewing. As the group enters the park you will enjoy a short safari drive in the Lando on your way to your camp. as you drive look out over the beautiful landscape as far as the eye can see. after sunset, watch animals at the watering holes near the camping area, which is safe, being well lit with flood lights. Free time this evening allows for the option of a night safari in an open vehicle. Look out over beautiful desert landscapes as far as the eye can see. there are Himba, Herero and Damara people along the way selling local arts and we'll be sure to make a few stops to find out more about their offerings.
Accommodation: Etosha NP Okaukuejo Restcamp.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Optional Activities - Day 10: Etosha open vehicle wildlife safari night drive (750 NAD per person)
Day 11: Etosha National Park. Today your group will embark on a full day wildlife safari drive in Etosha NP. It's crazy the amount of animal species that occupy this smaller protected area (more than 100 different mammals call Etosha home). Try not to let your attention wander as you move further and further into the wild lands of Etosha. Play some eye spy with your travel buddies and go crazy with those cameras because we can't wait to see what you experience. The coolest thing about this national park is that because of its size and the large amount of animals within, its almost as if the wildlife comes directly to you, especially during the dry season (May through October) when the animals all gather around the waterholes creating some of the densest wildlife viewing opportunities in the world.
Accommodation: Etosha NP Okaukuejo Restcamp
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Optional Activities - Day 11: Etosha open vehicle wildlife safari drive (660 NAD per person)
Day 12: Etosha National Park/Waterberg Plateau. Lions and elephants and springboks - oh my. By now you will most likely have seen some wildlife and that's a good thing because it's time to move on from Etosha further south to the Waterberg Plateau. once the Lando pulls to a stop you'll be itching to stretch those legs so hit the trails in this gorgeous national park searching for secret plunge pools and wildlife such as buffalo and giraffe along the way. Or if you are looking to relax, chill out at camp, write in your travel journal or take a dip in the pool of the group campsite.
Accommodation: Waterberg campsite.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 13: Waterberg Plateau/Windhoek. Leave the Waterberg Plateau National Park behind and head south through the Namibian countryside to Windhoek. Along the way you will stop at the G-Adventures supported Penduka Village Restaurant and Shop just outside of Windhoek where you will enjoy a delicious included lunch.
Accommodation: Urban Camp.
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Day 14: Windhoek/Ghanzi. Get ready to check another country off your list as the group crosses the border from Namibia into Botswana. Travel east into the heart of the Kalahari to Ghanzi. Catch a glimpse of how the local San people adapted to this difficult landscape on an optional bushman walk.
Accommodation: Thakadu Bush Camp
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Optional Activities - Day 14: Walk with San people (80 BWP per person), traditional San people dancing (100 to 600 BWP per group).
Day 15: Ghanzi/Maun. Kiss the sands of the Kalahari goodbye and jump in the Lando towards Maun, arriving around lunchtime. After arrival in Maun, pick up supplies to prepare for the one night/two day excursion into the Okavango Delta. We recommend each person brings a 5 litre bottle of water to bring into the delta. This should be sufficient for both drinking water and cleaning purposes. You can take advantage of some leisure time around camp, catch up on some journaling, take some photos and simply relax in this beautiful setting. In the evening set up camp, unwind with your friends and as the night settles around you search for shooting stars above from the comfort of your sleeping bag.
Accommodation: Sedia Riverside Lodge
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Day 16: Maun/Okavango Delta. Today is going to be busy, but fun. Wake to the sounds and smell of the bush around you and then dive right in to some nature with an overnight excursion into the Okavango Delta. Travel in traditional mokoro (dugout canoe) and do some birdwatching on the way to our basic bush camp for the evening. Arrive around lunch time, set up camp and get use to your surroundings. Then head out for some adventure on a wildlife walk. The cool thing about being on foot is that you will get to learn about tracking the animals and gain insight into their movement patterns and behaviour more than if youo were just in a vehicle. as night falls on the group, gather around the campfire, sing with the locals and simply unwind with a sundowner as you count the stars. Cheers! Please note that there is no shower and only a dig out bush toilet, as our camp is very basic and in the wild - but its all worth it due to the incredible landscape and wildlife.
Accommodation: Okavango Delta camping
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 17: Okavango Delta/Gweta. Wake up to the image of the sun rising and watch as the light turns the landscape varying shades of pinks, oranges and reds. You can't help but feel completely isolated from the rest of the world being out in the middle of nowhere - our advice? Savour the moment. After rubbing the sleep from your eyes grab those cameras and take one more safari walk before riding in a mokoro back to Maun where you will pack up the Lando and hit the road to the ancient baobab trees of Gweta. The group will arrive at the campsite mid to late afternoon. Have a walk around, take pictures of the baobabs, swim in the pool and enjoy a proper shower after the night in the bush.
Accommodation: Planet Baobab
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 18: Gweta/Kasane. Rise early to the sound of nature and travel north with your group to Kasane. Opt to embark on a river cruise through Chobe NP before. “I bless the rains down in Africaaaa” ahh we can just hear it now . . . (and it has never sounded so good!) because surely someone is bound to play this song as you drive through the verdant lands between Gweta and Kasane. Turns out Toto knew what they were talking about because the rains in Africa are no joke. Rain brings life to the pans awakening dormant the fish and aquatic shrimps from the mud. The surrounding grasslands also teem with life and are home to many antelope, which attract a wide range of predators. Keep your eyes focused as the world passes you by and then reward yourself with a group toast as you camp under the stars. Journey to the area of Chobe National Park, home to the largest elephant population in Southern Africa. The best way to appreciate the areas thousands of resident elephants, crocodiles and hippos is with an optional sunset boat cruise on the Chobe River.
Accommodation: Thebe River Safaris Camping
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Optional Activities – Day 18: Chobe River sunset cruise (47 USD per person)
Day 19: Kasane/Victoria Falls. Opt for an early safari drive in Chobe then buckle those seat belts and cross the border from Botswana to Zimbabwe; home of epic Victoria falls. All that driving is bound to make you hungry and we have a treat for you today! The group will be having a traditional lunch at the G Adventurers-supported Lusumpuko Women's Club. With full bellies and even more full hearts get ready to feel the mist in the air as you enter the town of Victoria Falls. Opt to prebook the Chobe National Park Safari Drive and head out early into the park before crossing the border from Botswana to Zimbabwe at the Kazungula border post. Continue on to the town Victoria Falls, a great base to see falls, and take part in some exciting activities. Your accommodation is in Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) not Livingstone (Zambia). Please make sure you have the necessary visa. Note that this trip combines with other tours and some tours will be finishing in Victoria Falls, while others will be continuing on. Many of our groups opt to book their final evening together aboard a sunset cruise along the Zambezi river with wildlife viewing, great scenery and an open bar.
Accommodation: Explorers Village Camping
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Optional Activities – Day 19: Victoria Falls visit (50 USD per person), Victoria Falls helicopter ride – 12-13 minutes (150 USD per person), Chobe National Park safari drive.
Day 20: Victoria Falls. Morning fellow adventurers! Get close and personal with one of the largest waterfalls in the world on this free day in Victoria Falls. Feel the strength of the water splashing your skin on the observation deck, take in the sound of tons of water thundering over the edge of the falls in the distance and make your day as relaxing or hair-raising as you like. For the adventurous we recommend going whitewater rafting, taking a scenic helicopter flight over the falls. Either way the choice is yours! Victoria Falls is a great base to see both natural wonders and take part in some exciting activities. Get up close (and wet from the spray) while awing at the immense Victoria Falls, raft the whitewater of the mighty Zambezi, and for the more adventurous, bungee jump with the Victoria Falls in view. Want to do more with your tour? Pre-book any of the optional activities with Moreish Holidays. Any optional activities listed on this day can also be booked upon arrival in Victoria Falls.
Accommodation: Explorers Village Camping
Meals: none
Optional Activities – Day 20: Victoria Falls helicopter ride – 12 – 13 minutes (150 USD per person), Zambezi bungee jump (176 USD per person), Victoria Falls white water rafting (133 USD per person), Victoria Falls visit (50 USD per person), Princess laundry service (10 USD per person).
Day 21: Victoria Falls. Get up close and personal with one of the largest waterfalls in the world on this free day in Victoria Falls. Feel the strength of the water splashing your skin on the observation deck, taking in the sound of tons of water thundering in over the edge of the falls in the distance, and make your day as relaxing or hair-raising as you like. Opt to try whitewater rafting. Maybe take a scenic helicopter flight over the falls (epic selfies anyone?), or take the plunge (literally) while bungee jumping with Victoria Falls in sight. Want to do more with your tour? Pre-book any of the optional activities with Moreish Holidays. Any optional activities listed on this day can also be booked upon arrival in Victoria Falls.
Accommodation: Explorers Village Camping
Meals: none
Optional Activities – Day 21: Victoria Falls visit (50 USD per person), Zambezi bungee jump (176 USD per person), Zipline over the Zambezi (50 USD per person), Bridge swing over the Zambezi (176 USD per person), Victoria Falls helicopter ride – 12 -13 minutes (150 USD per person), Victoria Falls helicopter ride – 25 minutes (284 USD per person), Victoria Falls white water rafting (133 USD per person), Full Day excursion to Chobe National Park (189 USD per person), Princess laundry service (10 USD per person).
Day 22: Victoria Falls/Lusaka. Buckle those seat belts, set off early around 6am, and cross the border from Zimbabwe into Zambia. The long journey across rough and bumpy roads will take you to a private farm 29km (18 mi) outside the capital of Zambia and will have you feeling so accomplished because we all know now that driving on rough terrain is no picnic! Get out, stretch those legs and marvel together at the zebras, buffalo, and antelope that freely roam the property. Then grab a cold drink at the camp’s bar (cheers!) or relax by the pool to celebrate the success of your long journey. This is an overnight stop in between two long driving days, so we will not have time to explore Lusaka.
Accommodation: Eureka camping park
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 23: Lusaka/South Luangwa. Rise and shine and begin today’s journey. We have a lot of ground to cover so be prepared to set off early and arrive late. Use this time to get to know the members of your group better, swap stories, share some laughs, or even sit quietly and reflect, there’s time for both. The group will travel across the Zambian countryside before arriving at the campsite along the banks of the Luangwa River.
Accommodation: Wildlife camp
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Day 24: South Luangwa. Guess where you’re going today! South Luangwa National Park. The day is yours to spend in this wildlife haven. Choose to go on a walking safari (just remember it’s seasonal), a night drive, or visit a nearby local village. No matter what you decide to do remember to have fun and be in the moment because life’s more fun that way in general and hey, so is travel. Get rid of those expectations and let this place dazzle you for what it is.
Accommodation: Wildlife Camp
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Optional Activities – Day 24: South Luangwa wildlife safari drive (50 USD per person), South Luangwa walking safari (60 USD per person)
Day 25: South Luangwa/Chipata. It’s another day in the wilds of Africa so have those cameras at the ready as you head out on an optional morning safari drive. Try to snap some pictures of giraffes, elephants, and Cape Buffalo in this hidden gem of a place that also happens to be home to the largest populations of these creatures. Then the group will stop for lunch and visit the Tribal Textiles Market & Courtyard a G Adventures-supported craft workshop. In the afternoon you will continue onwards to Chipata.
Accommodation: Mama Rula’s camp
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Optional Activities – Day 25: South Luangwa walking safari (60 USD per person), South Luangwa wildlife safari drive (50 USD per person).
Day 26: Chipata/Kande Beach: Check another country off your travel lists as you pass into Malawi and head to Lake Malawi affectionately known as “Lake of Stars”. The group will spend four nights relaxing on the shores of this massive lake; think clear shimmering waters with schools of colourful cichlid fish swarming in the depths of a place where nature is king and the people are some of the friendliest you’ll ever meet. Beach walks, leisurely swims, and snorkeling are what’s in store for you over the next few days. The locals depend on the lake for fishing as well as survival by using dugout canoes to fish from and setting out long nets. There are many different ethnic groups all speaking their own language; most are Christians and the rest have traditional beliefs. Please note that conservative dress is recommended. Shoulders and knees should be covered in public, but inside of camp boundaries it’s ok to wear beach clothes.
Accommodation: Kande Beach Lodge and Campsite
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 27: Kande Beach: Imagine this; you wake to the sound of birdsong around you, the sun is shining, and the waters of Lake Malawi are calling your name begging to be set upon. Grab your camera and swim suit and head out for some fun. Wander the shore on foot, grab a snorkel and see what life under the shimmering surface is all about, take a leisurely swim, or choose to experience a village walk at the nearby Tonga Village. Then the group will get to take part in a traditional dinner at a local home in the evening before falling asleep under the stars.
Accommodation: Kande Beach Lodge and Campsite
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Optional activities – Day 27: Snorkelling, Village Walk, Swimming
Day 28: Kande Beach/Chitimba: It’s off to another beautiful destination along Lake Malawi today. From oceans to mountains to lakes you’re getting to see some of the best scenery that Africa has to offer. The group will head north to picturesque Chitimba Beach where there are gorgeous views of the mountains in the background and you can see Tanzania from just across the lake. Once here you can choose to get out onto the lake or you can hike along the shores and enjoy the scenery that surrounds you.
Accommodation: Chitimba Beach Lodge and Camp
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 29: Chitimba: Enjoy a final day at Lake Malawi. Now that you have gotten a feel for this area take the day to further experience your surroundings and appreciate them. Bask in the sun, take a swim, walk to the local village that you didn’t visit yesterday or hike to Livingstonia along the Nyika Plateau for wonderful views of the lake. Along the way cool off under the Manchewe Falls (we know we would if we were there with you). In the evening, relax along the lake and rest up as the journey continues tomorrow.
Accommodation: Chitimba Beach Lodge and Camp
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Optional Activities – Day 29: Hike to Livingstonia (5 USD per person), Village Walk (10 USD per person).
Day 30: Chitimba/Iringa: Another day, another country; you’ll be a pro at border crossings in no time. Today the group will head into Tanzania en route to Iringa. Gaze out the window as the Lando climbs out of the Great Rift Valley through some spectacular mountain passes, viewing tea plantations and highlands as you go. You could also use this time to journal, take a nap, or share inside jokes with the rest of the group (you’re bound to have some by now).
Accommodation: Kisolanza Farm
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 31: Iringa/Dar es Salaam: After the jam packed first few days of this trip where you are going next is going to be just what you needed. Wake in Iringa before driving to Dar es Salaam. Watch as the Tanzanian countryside passes by and the blue waters of the Indian Ocean make their debut. The city started as a fishing village in the mid 19th century before becoming a port and trading centre. The group will spend the night here before embarking for the island beaches of Zanzibar.
Accommodation: Mikadi beach Camp
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 32: Dar es Salaam/Zanzibar Beach Resort: Today is the day your group will discover true paradise. Hop on a ferry and transfer to Zanzibar. Get ready for picturesque island beaches that will make you contemplate staying here and living off the grid. Few places on this planet are as entrancing and exotic as this Tanzanian archipelago so get ready to enjoy it, take loads of pictures, and relax in a place that has long lured backpackers and adventurers to it’s sandy shores.
Zanzibar is a Muslim society. Immodestly dressed women or men in shorts will get harassed and cause great offence in Stone Town. At the beach, customs are a little more relaxed, but our travellers are encouraged to be respectful of the islands culture and still cover up when walking around. Never try to take a photograph without asking permission.
Accommodation: Fun Beach Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 33: Zanzibar Beach Resort: Wake up in this island paradise and get ready to seize the day. You’ll be exploring one of the world’s great cultural crossroads… think Africa meets Arabia and add the Indian Ocean into the mix as the cherry on top. The day is yours to spend as you choose; grab some goggles and go snorkelling, hop aboard a sailing trip, or just lounge on the beach and relax. Zanzibar’s tropical setting, unique culture, and active beach-party scene make this place a very enjoyable East African Indian Ocean experience.
Accommodation: Fun Beach Hotel
Meals: breakfast
Optional Activities – Day 33: Safari blue – sailing day trip (60-100 USD per person), Swahili culture tour (70-200 USD per person), Scuba diving (65 USD per person), Snorkelling (35-60 USD per person).
Day 34: Stone Town: Your most difficult task today is going to be pulling yourself away from the beauty that surrounds you in Jambiani. But, if it makes you feel any better you still have one final night to spend on this enchanted island just in a more local spot. Travel back to Stone Town from the other side of the island, enjoy a guided tour of a local spice plantation on the way, and explore the heart of Zanzibar. Wander the winding historic unpaved alleyways of Stone Town passing by balconies and gigantic wooden carved doors along the way. Get lost and spend hours exploring the streets and squares, drinking potent coffee from pavement vendors and buying sweetmeats from tiny cafes. Keep an eye out for tinga-tinga paintings, antique shops, beautifully printed cloths (kangas and kikois worn by local people), little carved chests with copper inlays, and spices – all beautiful presents or memories to take home.
Accommodation: Spice Palace Hotel
Meals: breakfast
Optional Activities – Day 34: Stone Town walking tour (20-40 USD per person).
Day 35: Stone Town/Bagamoyo: It’s time to kiss this underrated paradise good-bye as you catch the ferry back to the mainland and head north to the historic coastal town of Bagamoyo. This town was recently named a World Heritage Site and used to be one of the most important trading ports of the central east African coast in the late 19th century. Stroll through Bagamoyo’s narrow, unpaved streets on your own and feel as if you stepped back in time. If you have booked the Zanzibar Express, you will stay in Stone Town when the group heads for the ferry. You have a free day in Stone Town for shopping, relaxing or seeing the sights. (Ask your CEO if you want to book any tours) Tomorrow you fly to Arusha to meet the group. Included: transfers, flight, one night Stone Town (Tausi palace). Only breakfast included.
Accommodation: Firefly Bagamoyo campsite
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Optional Activities – Day 35: Zanzibar Express Northbound
Day 36: Bagamoyo/Arusha: Hit the road for a long day of driving. Enjoy the varied landscapes on the way to Arusha. Be on the lookout for views of Mt Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest mountain. Consider yourself lucky if you are able to see the mountain as it is hidden behind a veil of clouds most of the time. Arusha sits at the foot of rugged Mt Meru, Africa's fifth highest mountain. Use the afternoon to prepare a small day pack for the three day excursion to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. Take something warm for the night on the crater rim and enough insect repellent, sunscreen and water. Bedding is provided, but you can take your sleeping bag along to make sure your warm enough at night. Zanzibar Express; transfer this morning from your Stone Town hotel to the airport for the flight to Arusha. Arrive in Arusha and transfer to the camp to meet back up with the group. Only breakfast and dinner included.
Accommodation: Meserani Snake Park
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 37: Arusha/Serengeti National Park: Well folks it’s time for the Africa you have all imagined; the experience that has been depicted over and over again in books, movies, and television. So grab those cameras, purchase a quirky bucket hat, and head out on a wildlife safari drive into one of the most famous national parks in Africa; the Serengeti. Get ready for abundant wildlife, vast golden plains dotted with thorny acacia trees, and hippo-filled rivers as you begin a 3-day and 2-night excursion into the park itself and the great Ngorongoro Crater. Changing to specialized 4x4 7-seater safari vehicles, we are met by experienced safari driver/guides, who will ensure us wonderful wildlife encounters. Our safari vehicles each have sliding windows and a large pop-up roof, perfect for wildlife viewing. They are smaller than the Lando and will allow us to maneuver easily through the wildlife areas. As the vehicles are smaller than the Lando, our group will split up among several vehicles.
Accommodation: Seronera campsite
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 38: Serengeti National Park/Ngorongoro: Grab your buddies and jump aboard for one last morning safari in the Serengeti. As the sun rises higher in the sky watch the animal kingdom come to life in this grassland savannah before returning to break down camp. Then it’s on to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, famous for Africa’s best wildlife viewing. Experience epic views from the crater rim and watch as animals meander around below drinking water from the permanent supply on the crater floor. You’ll be setting up camp in the late afternoon at a site near the crater rim and then you can spend the rest of the day enjoying one of the most beautiful wildlife havens on the planet. Please note: if you have pre-booked the Serengeti Balloon Safari, today's likely the day for this activity! Your CEO will give you final confirmation when it will take place, as it is subject to change. You will miss the included morning wildlife safari drive with the group, but you will have a much better view from above! Please note that due to the high-altitude location of our camp, temperatures can drop at night. We recommend bringing extra layers to wear during the evening and following morning.
Accommodation: Simba campsite
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Optional Activities – Day 38: Serengeti Balloon safari
Day 39: Ngorongoro/Arusha: It’s time to experience “Africa’s Garden of Eden” on a more personal level. Today, venture down to the crater floor where the group will embark on a final safari experience. Have those cameras charged and at the ready because, let’s face it if you are going to see any wildlife this would be the place (and we are so excited for you)! The animals are bound to this area by the crater walls and the enclosed nature of the crater means that its own ecosystem has been created think; rich grasslands, swamps, acacia forests, and Lake Makat; so get ready to see some magic. With full camera rolls the group will exit the crater in the late morning and travel back to Arusha. Swap stories along the way, pick those favourite photos from earlier, or simply sit back and let yourself enjoy the passing scenery as you cruise along.
Accommodation: Meserani Snake Park
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 40: Arusha/Nairobi: Hop in the Lando and hit the road to Kenya's capital; Nairobi. Cross through the semi-arid lands of the Maasai people en route and marvel at the epic views of mighty Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance as you swap stories with your road trip buddies! Please note that this is a combination tour, and some of your fellow group members may be finishing their tour on this evening.
Accommodation: The Heron Portico
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Day 41: Nairobi: Enjoy a free day in Nairobi to explore, or relax, before heading off to Uganda. Nairobi is East Africa’s most cosmopolitan city and Kenya’s beating heart. Experience the vibrant cultural life, fabulous places to eat, and exciting nightlife on your day in this concrete jungle.
Accommodation: The Heron Portico
Meals: breakfast
Optional Activities – Day 41: Optional welcome meeting for travellers on combos.
Day 42: Nairobi/Maasai Mara: Hit the road and journey through the Great Rift Valley today on the way to one of the most famous national parks in Africa and Kenya’s premier wildlife reserve. Stretch those legs and take in your surroundings before heading on a late afternoon wildlife safari drive with excellent chances of seeing the “big five”. This natural environment coupled with the park’s varied wildlife provides for a spectacular safari experience.
Accommodation: Kenia campsite
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 43: Maasai Mara: Grab those cameras and jump in the safari vehicle with your driver/guide to spot wildlife in the Masai Mara National Reserve. Listen to your guide describe the African bush as you traverse one of the world’s top safari destinations. Masai Mara is known for its abundance of big cats and wildebeest (see if you can capture a picture of one)! Please note: if you have pre-booked the Masai Mara Balloon Safari, today's likely the day for this activity! Your CEO will give you final confirmation when it will take place, as it is subject to change. You will miss the included morning wildlife safari drive with the group, but you will have a much better view from above!
Accommodation: Kenia campsite
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Optional activities – Day 43: Maasai Mara balloon safari (480 USD per person)
Day 44: Maasai Mara/Lake Nakuru National Park: Awake to the sounds of the bush as your alarm clock before breaking down camp and jumping in the Lando. Today, the group is heading to Lake Nakuru, known for harbouring flocks of pink flamingos and a rich variety of bird species. You’ll stop for a picnic lunch along the way near Mai Mahiu before reaching the safari lodge inside Lake Nakuru National Park. Then, the group will go on a late afternoon wildlife drive through the area.
Accommodation: Nderit campsite
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 45: Lake Nakuru National Park/Eldoret: Another day, another chance to see more wildlife and live your African safari dream. After your morning safari drive around Lake Nakuru keeping your eyes wide open in search of buffalo, impala, and the elusive leopard. The group will bump along in the Lando sharing photos of your day on the road to Eldoret.
Accommodation: Greenwoods Resort and Campsite
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 46: Eldoret/Kampala: It’s time to cross another country off of those travel lists as you cross the border from Kenya into Uganda. Drive along reminiscing on inside jokes and experiences from the trip before camping in Kampala (the country's capital) where you will arrive in the late afternoon.
Accommodation: Red Chilli Hideaway
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 47: Kampala/Lake Bunyonyi: Even though you get to do something pretty awesome everyday you’re going to cross the equator today in the Lando (which we think is a pretty cool thing to be able to add to a travel resume) and head off to Lake Bunyonyi. The name Bunyonyi means ‘place of many little birds’ and it is undoubtedly the loveliest lake in Uganda. It’s winding shores encircle 29 islands and its surrounded by steep terraced hillsides that will have you wondering if you are somewhere in Asia. But the best part is that Lake Bunyonyi is a croc and hippo free lake (unlike many lakes in East Africa) so you can swim in its calm waters as much as you like… such bliss!
Accommodation: Bunyonyi Overland Camp
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 48: Gorilla Trek: Today’s the day that some of your dreams may just come true because you are going on a guided mountain gorilla trek in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (so insanely cool!) So get ready to embark on an unforgettable hike deep into the jungle through volcano forests alongside a park ranger to search for mountain gorillas. The treks can vary in length and difficulty so be prepared for a challenge, but know that if you spot these majestic creatures (we share 98% of our DNA with them) it will all be worth it. Note: Ugandan authorities are fiercely protective of this natural treasure, and currently permit only a maximum of eight people, per day, to visit a given gorilla family. The group will be split into different sub-groups for the trek, and depending on the number of travellers, different sub-groups may do their trek on different days. Depending on the date of our permits, it's possible that the gorilla trek will take place on the second full day in Lake Bunyonyi. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has four areas; Rushaga, Buhoma, Nkuringo, Ruhija. Depending on permit availability your group could be tracking gorillas from different areas of the park, it is all still part of Bwindi.
Accommodation: Bunyonyi Overland Camp
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 49: Lake Bunyonyi: Let’s give Lake Bunyonyi some love today. Explore this magical place as the morning mist rises off of the gently lapping waters. With tons of optional activities to choose from like, swimming, hiking, canoeing, bird watching, or a motorboat tour of the lake there’s no time to be bored. Then relax together at the lodge in the evening talking about your group gorilla experiences.
Accommodation: Bunyonyi Overland Camp
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Optional Activities – Day 49: Swimming, Canoe Rental (10 USD per person), Nature walk (5 USD per person), Motorboat tour of Lake Bunyonyi (25-80 USD per person), Bird watching walk (5 USD per person).
Day 50: Lake Bunyonyi/Kalinzu Forest Reserve: Sit back, relax, and watch the Ugandan countryside slip past on today’s journey to Kalinzu Forest Reserve further north in the country. The forest reserve is adjacent to Queen Elizabeth National Park and is characterized by open savannah, large area of swamp around Lake George, and the extensive Maramagambo Forest in the southeast. There’s a lot of landscapes to experience so what are you waiting for? Get started!
Accommodation: Craters Campsite and Country Lodge
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Optional Activities – Day 50: Boat cruise (30 USD per person)
Day 51: Kalinzu Forest Reserve/Lake Mburo National Park: You know that saying, “the early bird gets the worm” well in this case the early bird gets to see chimpanzees. Get up early for an included chimpanzee tracking excursion and explore the verdant Kalinzu Forest Reserve with a ranger while being on the lookout for these chimpanzee families. Afterwards, the group will visit tea plantation before setting off to Lake Mburo. Once you arrive there you can choose to book an afternoon boat cruise on the lake, or explore the local area on foot.
Accommodation: Leopard Rest camp
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Optional Activities – Day 51: Lake Mburo boat safari (70 USD per person), Nature walk (10 USD per person).
Day 52: Lake Mburo National Park/Jinja: Head back across the equator today in the Lando; Uganda is one of the few countries in the world where you can cross this imaginary geographical line on land. Observe how water swirls in opposite directions on either side of the equator and then stop to enjoy a meal at the G Adventures-supported AidChild Equation Café & Gallery. With full stomachs and even more full hearts the group will continue on to Jinja, the adventure capital of Uganda.
Accommodation: Nile River explorers river camp
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Day 53: Jinja: Get out there, get active, and have some fun! Explore Jinja today solo or with your group by participating in the plethora of outdoor and adventure activities they have to offer. Choose to raft down the White Nile River, break a sweat mountain biking up and down the hills surrounding the town, or for a more laid back day check out the local market. Keep your eyes ready to spot monkeys and other wildlife that can wander to the outskirts of this town.
Accommodation: Nile River explorers river camp
Meals: none
Optional Activities – Day 53: Quad biking (99 USD per person), Mabira forest mountain biking (45 USD per person, 180 USD per group), Nile River kayaking (140-160 USD per person), Bungee jumping (115 USD per person), Nile River sunset cruise (45 USD per person), Jinja river rafting (140 USD per person).
Day 54: Jinja/Eldoret: Today is a bit of a travel day but you won’t mind because you could use the rest. The group will be leaving Uganda and crossing over into Kenya and travel to Eldoret. Hang out together as a group and enjoy a nice evening camping under the stars. This is an overnight stop in between two long driving days.
Accommodation: Greenwoods resort and Campsite
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Day 55: Eldoret/Nairobi: After your adventurous experiences yesterday you’ll be glad to have a more low key travel day to replenish your energy before the journey home. So sit back and enjoy the ride as the group transfers through to the Kenyan countryside to Nairobi. We’re thinking naps, story time, and then maybe a mini dance party in the Lando to get you through the day. (Toto’s Africa song anyone?) Tour ends on arrival in Nairobi. Not ready to leave Africa just yet? (Yeah, we don’t blame you) talk with Moreish Holidays about extending your adventure and get to know Kenya or beyond!
Meals: breakfast
Your flight must depart no earlier than 21:00 on day 55.
