This amazing 36 day trip takes in the best that South Africa has to offer. From adventures in the Namibian desert, to the deltas in Botswana, the incredible Victoria Falls and not forgetting the cool Mountain Kingdom of Swaziland, before hitting the beaches in Mozambique and that heading through the Kruger National Park via the panorama Route ending in Johannesburg.
Cape Town to Mozambique Overland Adventure
36 day Africa Overlanding Tour to 6 African Countries!
Highlights
Countries Visited
- South Africa
- Namibia
- Botswana
- Zimbabwe
- Swaziland
- Mozambique
Photos
Full Details
Day 1 South Africa – Cederberg Mountain Region
Leaving Cape Town we make our first stop at Table View and take photos of Table Mountain from across Table Bay. Today we will enjoy a guided hike in the Cederberg region. Later tonight at our camp, your guides will give you a full briefing on the tour.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Activity package: Guided walk in Cederberg region
Day 2 Namaqualand – Gariep (Orange) River
After an early start, we head north via the distant town of Springbok, best known for its diamonds, copper and spring flowers. We then proceed to our camp located right beside the Namibian border. The camp is situated on the riverbank that forms the border between South Africa and Namibia.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 Namibia – Gariep (Orange) River – Fish River Canyon
This morning there’s the chance to see the beautiful river valley by canoe or just relax at camp. After lunch we cross the border and travel to the Fish River Canyon. After a scenic walk along the edge of the canyon we enjoy our dinner while watching the sunset. This is also a fantastic photo opportunity. Optional Activity: Half-Day Canoe Adventure.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Hike along the rim of the Fish River Canyon
Day 4 Namib-Naukluft National Park
We arrive at the Namib-Naukluft National Park and set up camp, then enjoy a short hike into the Sesriem Canyon. Tonight we enjoy the star-studded sky and enduring silence of the Namib Desert, only occasionally interrupted by the call of a Jackal or, a rather unique lizard, the barking gecko!
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Hike into Sesriem Canyon
Day 5 Sossusvlei Dunes – Namib-Naukluft National Park
This is our earliest morning as we prepare for our hike up Dune 45 to marvel at the sunrise. After our hike, we will have the chance to visit Sossusvlei. Later we join a local expert on a guided hike and learn more about the unique desert ecosystem and how the Bushmen survived in the harsh desert conditions. Optional Activity: Transfer into Deadvlei
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity package: Guided desert walk with local expert
Included Highlights: Sunrise hike up Dune 45
Day 6 Swakopmund
After a brief photo stop while crossing the Tropic of Capricorn, we travel onto Namibia’s Atlantic coast and the adventure capital, Swakopmund. Just before we arrive in Swakopmund, we stop at the Walvis bay lagoon en route, where there are often flamingos to be seen. You will be briefed on the many optional activities available here and there is time to explore the town before dinner out at one of the local restaurants. Optional Activity: Dinner out
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Included Highlight: Stop off in Walvis Bay to view Flamingos
Day 7 Swakopmund
The whole day is free to relax, explore or partake in one of the many activities available here. Most popular activities are quad biking in the dunes or tandem skydiving. On a clear day’s skydiving you can see all the way to the next day’s destination!
Taking a walk around Swakopmund’s shops and having a leisurely lunch is also a great way to spend your day. Optional Activities: Quad biking, sand boarding, sky diving, dinner out etc.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 8 Spitzkoppe
Leaving the coast we drive through arid landscapes to Spitzkoppe Mountain. The enormous granite monoliths dominate the otherwise flat landscape and we set up camp in the wild plain at the base of the mountain. This afternoon our guide will take us on a guided walk to explore the unique rock formations. The more adventurous among us may want to try some mountain climbing for some stunning views of the landscape.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Guided walk with Nomad guide through Spitzkoppe
Day 9 Himba Tribes
After some early morning exploration we continue north and drive towards Kamanjab. Today we have the chance to experience life within a Himba tribe. The Himba are pastoral people and predominantly breed cattle or goats. They are easily recognisable by their unique style of dress. The Himba have been extremely diligent about upholding the roots of their culture but they are also very curious about visitors to their home.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity package: Guided visit to the Himba Tribe with Local Guide
Day 10/11 Etosha National Park
Etosha is the venue for some of the most unique game viewing experiences in Africa. The sparse grasslands allow great opportunities to see animals normally hidden in dense vegetation. You may even see some of the amazing animals crossing the road in front of your truck! We will go on various game drives and spend our evenings at the abundant waterholes for some excellent game photography.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Game drives in Nomad truck
Day 12 Windhoek
After an early morning game drive we set off towards Windhoek, the Capital city of Namibia. On the way we stop at a popular craft market where you can barter for handmade gifts to take home. Windhoek is not only the capital; it is also the cultural, social and economic centre of Namibia. On arrival in Windhoek our guide will take us on a short city tour in our truck. Joe’s Beer House is an exciting dining experience for our optional dinner out. Optional Activity: Dinner out.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Included Highlight: Craft market en-route and short city tour in Nomad Truck
Day 13 Botswana – Ghanzi
After an early start, we cross into Botswana and drive to Ghanzi. After setting up camp we meet with a local Bushman (San) community and experience some traditional tribal dancing. Optional activity: Bushman walk
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Bushmen Tribal Dance in evening
Day 14 Maun
Our journey takes us from Ghanzi towards Maun. Maun is the gateway to the Okavango Delta and this afternoon we will prepare for this excursion, packing small 2-night bags. There may be an opportunity this afternoon to visit the local crocodile farm or take a scenic flight over the Okavango Delta. Optional Activities: Scenic Flight (time permitting)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 15/16 Maun – Okavango Delta
This morning we board the big 4×4 truck that will take us in to the Delta. In high-water season it is sometimes necessary to take a boat to the poling station where we meet up with the members of a local community who will be showing us their homeland. We spend 2 nights bush camping in the wilderness and, if the water level allows, we will take a mokoro (traditional canoe) trip through the waterways. We will also be going on some nature walks in the hope of seeing some wild animals in their natural habitat. Please note: If you have not purchased the Activity Package you will stay at the campsite in Maun for the following 2 nights.
Day 15 (Day 1 in Delta),
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity package: 4 x 4 vehicle transfer into Okavango Delta, Mokoro ride and guided nature walk
Day 16 (Day 2 in Delta)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity package: Guided Nature walk and mokoro rides
Day 17 Nata
We leave the Delta behind us and travel east towards the town of Nata. The shady tree canopy surrounding the campsite is a hive of activity, with a bird feeding area and active water feature providing the bird watcher with the opportunity of viewing a variety of species from the comfort of the pool deck. The Helmeted Guineafowl, Crested Francolin, Yellow Hornbill, Pied and Arrowmarked Babblers, Glossy Starling, Meyers Parrot and Paradise Whydah are just some of the species you may encounter during your stay at the lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 18 Botswana – Chobe National Park
We travel to Chobe and this afternoon we enjoy a sunset river cruise as the animals are best spotted from the Chobe River. Elephants, Hippo, Crocodiles, Eland and many other creatures reside in Chobe so keep your cameras ready.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity package: Sunset Boat Cruise in the Chobe NP
Day 19 Zimbabwe – Victoria Falls
On arrival in Victoria Falls town, we have time to plan the next day’s adventure activities before we visit the spectacular Victoria Falls and experience the thundering of the mighty Zambezi. An optional dinner out is a friendly way to end your tour with all the new friends you’ve made along the way. Optional Activities: Chobe morning game drive, Zambezi Sunset Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Activity package: Entrance to Victoria Falls National Park
Day 20 Victoria Falls
Most people will spend the day White Water Rafting, a not-to-be-missed experience of a lifetime! Vic Falls offers many exciting alternatives such as a walk with lions or a bungee jump from the bridge that joins Zimbabwe with Zambia. Optional Activities: Full day white water rafting, Flight over the falls, Full day low/high water river boarding, sunset cruise, bungee jump (solo), morning/afternoon lion or elephant encounter.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 21 Victoria Falls to Palapye / Martinsdrift
Departure is at 7.30 am from Vic Falls Adventure Lodge. We drive south through Botswana to Palapye, or the border post at Martinsdrift, where we will spend the night at a lively campsite. Optional activities: South African Braai (BBQ) / All Meals.
Meals: No meals included
Day 22 Palapye / Martinsdrift to Johannesburg
After a 6.00 am departure, we enter into South Africa. Covering the next 450 – 550 km on sealed roads we should get to Johannesburg as early as possible.
Meals: No meals included
Day 23 South Africa – Swaziland – Hlane Royal National Park
Leaving Johannesburg early, we travel through the Mpumalanga province to Swaziland. After crossing the border we enter Hlane Royal NP, a huge nature reserve, home to lion, elephant and white rhino. Optional Activities: Hiking, Mountain Biking, Game drive.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Day 24 Hlane Royal National Park
At over 30000 hectares Hlane is Swaziland’s largest protected area. Originally the private hunting area of the Swazi Royal family the area is now held in trust and managed by Big Game Parks. As the lions are housed in a fenced enclosure it is possible to hike inside the park. Optional Activities: Hiking, Mountain Biking, Game drive.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 25 Mozambique – Praia do Tofo
We cross into Mozambique. Travelling north you can’t help but be captivated by the beautiful coastal scenery before arriving in Praia do Tofo and our campsite for the next two nights. Whether you just want to relax on the white sandy beaches or take on some of Africa’s most amazing diving and snorkelling spots, there’s plenty on offer in Tofo. Optional Activities: Snorkelling, Scuba Diving and Surfing.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 26 Praia do Tofo
In season Tofo is one of the world’s best sites for the viewing of the world’s largest fish, the Whale Shark. This entire day is free so that you can go snorkelling, scuba diving or just relax on the beautiful white sandy beach.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 27 Vilanculos
The Bazaruto Archipelago is Mozambique’s premier destination and it’s not hard to understand why. A protected area, the sea-life here is spectacular and snorkelling at one of the reefs is one of the best ways to enjoy it. On the way to Vilanculos we will be stopping at a local craft market for a little souvenir shopping.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 28 Bazaruto Archipelago National Park Excursion
The Bazaruto excursion is taken on the traditional sailing vessel of the African East Coast, the Dhow. We sail out to the islands and have the opportunity to snorkel, swim and relax over these 2 days. The Bazaruto is one of Southern Africa’s largest marine parks. We will overnight at a camp on the beach in our tents.
Please note: If you have not purchased the Activity Package you will stay at the accommodation in Vilanculos for this night.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity package (Day 27-28): Bazaruto Camping Excursion
Day 29 Bazaruto Archipelago National Park Excursion
The second day of this oceanic excursion is again spent exploring the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean and the abundant sea-life it supports. On rare occasions the weather may be unfavourable and in this case the Dhow will be replaced with a more conventional vessel.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 30/31 Inhambane
Today we travel through coconut plantations to the old Portuguese settlement of Inhambane. This coastal region is very relaxing and boasts incredible beaches. There are many optional activities available here from fishing to horse riding. Optional Activities: Scuba Diving, Quad Biking, Snorkelling
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 32 Maputo area
Today we return south towards the direction of Mozambique’s capital, Maputo. Mozambique gained full independence from the Portuguese in 1975, but only gained political stability in more recent times and is undergoing a major upgrade as the country’s economy grows.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 33/34 South Africa – Greater Kruger National Park
Today we drive through Maputo’s capital and return to South Africa to the world famous Kruger National Park, where we hope to spot Africa’s Big 5. The Kruger Park is the most famous nature conservation area in the world.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (day 11 only), Dinner
Included highlight: Full day game drive in our Nomad truck
Day 35 Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre
Today we visit the Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, where animals are being re-habilitated before being released back in to the wild. In the evening we enjoy a traditional song and dance evening along with a typical South African meal.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Activity package: Moholoholo Animal Rehabilitation visit,
Included highlight: Evening song and dance with traditional South African cuisine
Day 36 Panorama Route – Johannesburg
Travelling along the Panorama Route we stop at Blyde River Canyon and Bourkes Luck Potholes. The tour ends on arrival in Johannesburg. Johannesburg has many excellent restaurants and the group often spends this evening together. Optional Activities: Dinner out
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Included highlight: Panorama Route: God’s Window, Blyde River Canyon, Bourkes Luck Potholes
Accommodation
On our camping tours you will be staying in two-man dome tents. We supply a mattress and you supply your own sleeping bag. The accommodated tours stay in traditional huts, permanent tented camps and hostel-style rooms.
Food and Meals
Included are three hearty meals a day, (unless otherwise specified). Vegetarians are easily catered for and they’re always impressed by our varied menu. Our guides can produce miracles on a camp-stove. Special dietary requirements can be catered for, but only by special request. In East Africa it is more difficult to cater to certain requirements.
Trip Frequently Asked Questions
Ages
Health
Malaria
Vaccinations
Currency, money and banking
Age
What to bring?
What leave home?
Changes to routes/schedules
Do I need to have a travel insurance?
How many people are on the tour?
Do I have to help with the camp chores?
Who is responsible for my visas?
Is there a single accommodation option?
Terms and conditions
Price in GBP
Duration | Twin Share Tents |
36 Days | 1699 |
36 Days With Activity Pack | 2089 |
Included
- All transport by Adventure Vehicle
- All Accommodation (Camping and hostels)
- All Camping Equipment
- Support 24/7 with 2 driver guides per vehicle
- Detailed predeparture packs covering all essential need to know deails
- Support information covering Visas
- All activities as per itinerary (not including activity pack activities).
- Services of a tour guide
- Most meals
- Side Trips as per Itinerary
Activity Package, included when bvooking included activity pack.
This is an optional additional payment that covers what we consider to be ‘essential activities’ on our tours and therefore this itinerary has been written with these items included in the day-by-day itinerary. Ideally we would include all of these, but not everyone can afford this.
- Activities available on this tour:
- Cederberg guided walk
- Guided desert walk with local expert
- Himba Tribe visit
- 3 day Delta drive in
- Chobe NP boat cruise
- Victoria Falls National Park entrance
- Bazaruto Camping Excursion
- Moholoholo Rehabilitation Centre
Excluded
- Flights to and from Africa
- Pre and post accommodation
- Visas
- Travel Insurance
Dates
This trip departs approximately twice a month and dates vary, please contact us for start dates.
Trip Highlights
The trip highlights details all the places and activities that are included on the tour. You can see more on these activities by pressing the red button below.
Trip highlights are included in the base tour and these differ from activity pack upgradeds listed on the right which are the essential optional extras in our opinion.
- Namib Desert
- Himba Tribe
- Okavango Delta
- Victoria Falls
- Bazaruto Island
Activity Pack Upgrade Includes
The activity pack is a bolt on pack including what we consider to be the must to do activities on the trip. You do not have to purchase this at the time of booking, and all activities can be purchased locally as well.
- Cederberg guided walk
- Guided desert walk with local expert
- Himba Tribe visit
- 3 day Delta drive in
- Chobe NP boat cruise
- Victoria Falls National Park entrance
- Bazaruto Camping Excursion
- Moholoholo Rehabilitation Centre
You can choose to pay the Activity Package upfront or you can decide to pay for individual activities while on tour.
“We had a nice group of travellers, made some new friends. Special thanks to the crew: Godfree for his wonderful meals, Chris for his help, and Thabani, our guide. Hope too see you again on a other trip somewhere in Africa.! See more reviews here.”Marte B
” I just wanted to let you know that we had an outstanding time!! more reviews here.”Chavi
” The places we visited, the camp sites, the food, but most of all the people on this trip made it an unforgettable adventure!! See more reviews here.”Eduard