Description

This trip encompasses some of the best natural beauty, cultural heritage and wildlife encounters that Southern Africa and East Africa has to offer. The wildlife rich Kruger National Park and the stunning Blyde River Canyon set the scene for the wonders of Zimbabwe. The culturally important Great Zimbabwe Ruins, the beauty and history of Matobo National Park, the unforgettable interaction with the biggest cats and the majestic Victoria Falls will provide a real insight into the unheralded beauty and promise of Zimbabwe. This thirty-two day trip takes us to some of Africa's top game parks like the Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater and Kruger, and to it's best natural beauty at Lake Malawi and Victoria Falls. The beaches of Zanzibar and Malawi are a welcome addition to sit back and relax in true African style.

* We offer discounts to ISIC card holders. Contact us for details.

Highlights

DAY 1: Johannesburg to Hazyview (L / D)
Leaving Johannesburg we head towards the Lowveld and Umvubu camp situated on the border of the famous Kruger National Park. On our way we pass through the southern section of the picturesque Panorama Route - famous for its breathtaking vistas. Our camp for the next two nights is a short drive from the Kruger's Numbi Gate and has some interesting local residents that include hippo, giraffe, zebra and impala. We spend a relaxing evening around the camp fire before our game drive tomorrow.

DAY 2: Hazyview (B / L / D)
Today we explore the amazing Kruger National Park. Covering 21 497 km2 - 60 km wide and over 350 km long, this conservation area has more than 146 mammals, 500 bird, 114 reptile, 33 amphibian & 49 fish species. 23 000 different types of plants have been recorded. We spend the day driving around the park keeping an eye out for these. There is the option of doing a night drive looking for a few of the nocturnal inhabitants or upgrading to a small vehicle for the game drive at an additional cost.

DAY 3: Hazyview to Polokwane (B / L / D)
Today we leave the Lowveld and head on the long, scenic drive to Polokwane. Along the way we stop off at some of the best scenery in South Africa, including the ever striking Blyde River Canyon and God's Window. The many viewpoints of the Canyon, afford us excellent photo opportunities. Polokwane, capital of Limpopo, is the largest metropolitan complex in the north and a major economic centre. Its proximity to the neighbouring countries of Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Swaziland, as well as its convenient distance from the Kruger National Park and Magoebaskloof makes it a perfect gateway and good destination in itself. We set up our tents on the lush green grass of our campsite located outside of the city before enjoying a dip in the lovely swimming pool.

DAY 4: Polokwane to Musina (B / L / D)
After a quick replenishing of our stocks we begin our journey north toward Zimbabwe. We have a long, relaxing drive where we get to sit back and enjoy the ever changing scenery. Tonight we'll camp near to one of the hottest towns in South Africa, Musina, at the hot water spring resort - Tshipise. Situated between the rolling hills, the resort is well known for its natural hot water springs. Once we've set up camp, you're free to enjoy the pools, walking trails or various other activities on offer here.

DAY 5: Musina to Masvingo (Zimbabwe) (B / L / D)
Today we enter Zimbabwe - a beautiful country rich in soul, culture and tradition. We make our way to the town of Masvingo - on the outskirts of the Great Zimbabwe Ruins. This was the greatest medieval city in sub-Saharan Africa, built by an ancient highly skilled civilization. The name Zimbabwe is derived from this ancient city and means great stone houses in Shona. The most notable artefacts found at the ruins were the 8 Statues of stone birds carved out of soapstone. Wander around these amazing ruins, before setting up camp at the foot of the hills.

DAY 6 & 7: Masvingo to Gweru (B / L / D)
Leaving Masvingo, we continue our journey north to Gweru, in Zimbabwe's Midlands. Here we stop over at The Antelope Park. It is said you have not been to Zimbabwe until you have visited the Victoria Falls& and the Antelope Park. A wide variety of game viewing opportunities are available in this area inhabited by lion, elephant, giraffe and obviously numerous antelope! We have the unique option to walk with lions, ride or swim with elephants, view game from horse back or from the back of a vehicle. We guarantee Antelope Park is a place you'll never forget!

DAYS 8: Gweru to Bulawayo (B / L / D)
Leaving Gweru, we head to Bulawayo - Zimbabwe's second largest city. Bulawayo is noted for its exceptionally wide streets, which were originally designed to accommodate a full span ox wagon. The city also still retains much of its British Colonial character, evident by the many buildings maintained as heritage sites by the Bulawayo City Council. Interesting places to visit are the Natural History Museum, the National Arts Gallery and the Mzilikazi Arts and Crafts Centre, which employs over 70 people.

DAY 9: Bulawayo (B / L / D)
Today we visit Matobo National Park, one of the last strongholds of both the black and the white rhino. This park is also well known for its high concentration of the elusive leopard and majestic black eagle. Rock paintings are to be found too, providing evidence of the ancient San inhabitants of this area. Cecil John Rhodes (after whom Rhodesia was named) asked to be buried at the top of one of the sacred hills, (although there is some controversy over whether he will stay!) We spend the day exploring this unique geological, ecological and historic area.

DAY 10: Bulawayo to Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) (B / L)
Leaving Bulawayo, we head to Victoria Falls. Named after the famous World Heritage site and Water Falls, the town of Victoria Falls is situated on the Zambezi River and surrounded by the Victoria Falls National Park. Our campsite is conveniently situated in the centre of town, and within walking distance of the adventure booking agents, restaurants and shops. A 20 minute walk down the main road takes you to the entry point to view the falls, which are situated between Zimbabwe and Zambia. Victoria Falls, or Mosi-oa-Tunya (the Smoke that Thunders), was named by David Livingstone on his explorations, and is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. At 1700 m wide and around 100 m high, this is the world's largest sheet of falling water and a memorable sight on any African Safari! After our adventure activities briefing (see price guide at the end of this document for options), the afternoon is spent relaxing at the campsite's swimming pool, viewing the Victoria Falls, or exploring the many sights and delights of this town!

DAYS 11 & 12: Victoria Falls (B on both days)
The next 2 days are spent relaxing or participating in a myriad of Optional Excursions. Some of our fellow passengers will leave us in Vic Falls, to be replaced by new passengers joining us for the next leg of our trek.

OPTIONAL Excursions include elephant back safaris, horseback safaris, walking with lions, a visit to the crocodile ranch, boat cruises and golf at The Elephant Hills Resort. Adrenalin junkies can bungee from the Victoria Falls Bridge connecting Zimbabwe and Zambia or abseil down the Batoka Gorge - neither activity is for the faint hearted! All year round, flights in fixed wing, micro light and ultra light aircraft or helicopters provide an aerial perspective over this magnificent World Heritage Site. White water rafting on the Zambezi is world class. Beside the excitement of the Grade 5 rapids, there are the "floats," where there is time to admire the scenic cliffs and the occasional wildlife on the riverbanks.

Day 13: Victoria Falls to Chobe National Park, Botswana (B / L / D)
We head out from Victoria Falls to the border crossing to Botswana. Once we've completed the border formalities, we continue to the town of Kasane, situated on the banks of the Chobe River. The Chobe River forms a border between Botswana and Namibia and Zambia and is the main water source to the Chobe National Park. After lunch, we take a boat cruise along the Chobe River. Once we return and are packed and prepared, we leave for our Chobe National Park Overnight Mobile excursion

DAY 14: Chobe National Park to Livingstone (Zambia) (Brunch / D)
Once returning to the camp at Kasane, we get back on our truck and continue to the town of Livingstone. This afternoon we have the opportunity to view The Falls from the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Zambia or partake in a sunset boat cruise on the Zambezi River. Another fantastic photo opportunity!

DAY 15: Livingstone to Lusaka (B / L / D)
An early morning start sees us head north through southern Zambia to our campsite on the outskirts of Zambia's capital city, Lusaka. As we drive, we pass through a few of the villages and towns of Zambia along the way.

DAY 16: Lusaka to Chipata (B / L / D)
From Lusaka we head north east on the old "East Road" to a beautiful little campsite located just 10 km before the Zambia/Malawi border.

DAYS 17 to 20: Chipata to Lake Malawi Beaches (Malawi) (B / L / D)
Leaving Zambia we cross into Malawi, the "Warm Heart of Africa". We stop off in the capital, Lilongwe, a small city distinctively divided into the old town and the new administrative centre. Malawi is a landlocked country with 20% of its total area made up of beautiful Lake Malawi. We camp first at the central Lake, and then in the northern area over the next 4 days.

Spend the days learning the game of bao from the locals, scour the markets for a bargain or simply relax on the pristine beaches. Malawi's temperate climate allows for swimming in the clear blue fresh-water lake all year round. Explore the beautiful shore where you'll happen upon the local fishermen sorting their catch. Traditional fishing techniques are still practiced and to appreciate their boating skills, try to paddle a dugout canoe yourself! At night you'll see the "fairy" lights of the fishermen out on the lake. The various beachside campsites along Lake Malawi's shores offer many optional Excursions including a variety of water sports, horseback rides and a visit to the local village and school (see pricing guide at the end of this document).

DAY 21: Lake Malawi to Iringa (Tanzania) (B / L / D)
After a relaxing 4 days, we leave Malawi, entering Tanzania through the border post at Songwe. Winding our way through the beauty of the Tukuyu tea and banana plantations, we head towards Iringa where we spend the night in the beautiful rustic "Farmhouse" campsite famous for its Amarula Hot Chocolates and its steamy showers!

DAY 22: Iringa to Dar es Salaam (B / L / D)
This morning we head off early and make our way to Dar es Salaam. We pass through the Mikumi National Park where it is possible to view a range of wildlife from the roadside, totally impervious to the passing traffic. Today's drive time is extended due to the heavier amount of traffic heading in to the city, but the sights and sounds of Dar's vibrant outer suburbs are sure to keep you entertained. Look out for the colourful shop-fronts with their sometimes humorous "catch phrases". On arrival in Dar es Salaam, we make our way to our lovely seaside campsite and prepare for our departure to Zanzibar the next morning.

DAY 23: Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar (B)
A ferry from Dar es Salaam takes us to the "Spice Island, where we have the option to spend the next 3 nights. Zanzibar is steeped in history and was one of the major starting points for most East African explorers in their quest for new lands. New passengers may join us to replace those that'll leave us at the end of our excursion to Zanzibar.

DAYS 24 & 25: Zanzibar
History aside, Zanzibar offers a wealth of experiences for the visitor. Today the quiet streets of the old Stone Town still retain their Arabic influence, from the Medina-like shops to the palaces of the Sultans, who founded their vast empires on the spoils of the slave and ivory trade. The island is famous for its spices and an excursion around a spice plantation is always a fascinating experience. Other options include a trip to the beautiful beaches and giant tortoises of Prison Island, a full day scuba dive in Nungwe or a fishing trip in a traditional dhow. Mopeds are available for hire if you'd like to explore the more remote areas of the island. Zanzibar is a seafood lover's paradise. Numerous restaurants offer a great variety of the freshest catch from the ocean - crayfish being a popular speciality. Alternatively, mingle with the locals for dinner at the Forodhani Gardens seafront market, where delicious, inexpensive seafood is on offer.

DAY 26: Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam (D)
Leaving Zanzibar in the afternoon, we return to the mainland and another night in Dar es Salaam. Arrival back to camp is usually in the late afternoon, or early evening.

DAY 27: Dar es Salaam to Arusha (B / L / D)
From Dar es Salaam we have a long day's drive through vast sisal plantations and African bushveld to Arusha. On the way, we pass The Pare and Usambara Mountain ranges before driving through the town of Moshi. Moshi is the base for Mount Kilimanjaro climbing expeditions and weather permitting; we may even catch a glimpse of this magical mountain's snowy summit - a photo opportunity not to be missed! Tonight we stay at a campsite in Meserani on the outskirts of Arusha, before heading out on our Optional Excursions to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater tomorrow.

DAYS 28 - 30: Arusha / Optional Ngorongoro Crater & Serengeti Excursion (B / L / D)
Arusha is a pleasant town situated at the base of Mount Meru, and is the starting point for safaris into the Serengeti, Tarangire and Lake Manyara National Parks, and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This morning we have the opportunity to explore this thriving town while we stock up on provisions needed for our excursion. You may chose to wander the vibrant craft markets, stock up on supplies or perhaps catch up on the news back home at one of the small internet cafe available. Heading back to our base camp, Meserani Snake Park, those that are participating in the optional excursions to Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park can start to prepare for their departure this afternoon. The excursion is offered by a local Tanzanian operator who conducts the trip into the Parks in 4WD vehicles (In peak season, there may be a minivan or bus transfer to Karatu), which are adapted for safari use.

DAY 31: Arusha to Nairobi (Kenya) (B / L / D)
We set off early this morning and make our way to the Tanzania/ Kenyan border and the small border town of Namanga. After completing the border formalities, we continue on our journey to the Capital City Nairobi and our campsite on the outskirts of the city. Acacia Camp Nairobi is ideally situated right next to the Nairobi National Park, and is close to the giraffe sanctuary and elephant orphanage. The famous Carnivore Restaurant is also in close proximity.

DAY 32: Nairobi (B)
This morning at breakfast we exchange addresses and part ways having just experienced a trip of a life time!

Travel Types

• BackPacking Abroad
• Birdwatching
• Camping
• Canoeing
• Eco Tours
• Nature Tours
• Overland Tours
• Photography
• Rafting
• Safari
• Student Tours
• Tours
• Vacation Packages

Cost in US$:

USD 1690 + local payment of USD 705

Program Fees Include:

* Fully equipped overland safari truck with all camping and cooking equipment (tents, chairs, cutlery & crockery)

* 3 crew members on all safaris, Trip Leader, Driver and Safari Cook.

* Meals as detailed in the trip dossier

* Game park entrance fees and excursions as outlined in the trip dossier

Please ask us for the optional excursion price list so you can budget prior to your trip departing.

Participants Travel

in Groups

Typically Participants Work

in Groups of 28 max

Africa Travel Co's Mission Statement

Africa Travel Co is one of the continents leading operators for adventure overland travel and are completely African based. We operate a fleet of specially built safari vehicles, in ten eastern and southern African countries, and each year sees us introduce new and innovative itineraries. We started in 1990 and after 20 years of hard work, commitment and a professional approach, we now have operations and retail offices, backed by maintenance centers in Nairobi (Kenya), Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe), while our head office and main workshop are in Cape Town (South Africa). There is no other company that has this level of support in the overland safari industry. We believe that our success and growth has been due to the fact that 90% of the people who work with us as road crew, workshop and office staff are African. These are the people of Africa showing you their Africa.

Year Founded

1990