Cape Town to Zanzibar 2020

Namaqualand presents us with our first experience of the Desert vistas that will accompany us in the days ahead. We continue our journey north and after a short stop for supplies in Springbok, we travel to our camp on the banks of the Orange River. If you are fortunate enough to be travelling in the spring months (July to September) you may encounter the wild flowers that have made this region famous. No matter the time of
year though, the strange desert vistas offer a unique backdrop to this day’s travel.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Included Highlight: Spring Wild Flowers (Seasonal July – September)

While the Orange River was named after the Dutch Royal House, in recent times it has been referred to by its original name of Gariep, which simply means “river” in the indigenous KhoeKhoe language. Beginning its journey in the mountains of Lesotho, the Orange River is the longest river in South Africa and offers a unique contrast to the desert landscapes along its banks. The best way to experience the river is by getting out on the water and this morning we have the opportunity to join an optional canoe trip on the river. Around midday (after lunch) we depart the Orange River and head inland, crossing the border into Namibia. We make a brief stop at the mineral hot springs for a dip in the pool before arriving at our camp in the late afternoon.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Included Highlight: Swim in mineral hot springs (swimming pool)

Optional Activity: Half-day canoe trip

We rise early this morning, pack up our camp, making our way to the rim of the Fish River Canyon. We arrive in time to catch the morning sunrays filter through the canyon. After stretching our legs with a gentle walk along the rim of the canyon, we turn west and head for Keetmanshoop. Our afternoon will be spent meandering through the Quiver Tree Forest and The Giants Playground – named for the way in which the massive dolerite
boulders have been placed on each other – creating rock formations and a series of mazes.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Included Highlights: Scenic walk along the rim of Fish River Canyon / Visit to Quiver Tree Forest and Giants Playground

Every overland journey has some long travelling days and today is one of those as we venture deeper into the Namib Desert. Our destination is the dune fields that cover the western reaches of the desert. Long dusty roads and sparsely populated farmlands offer us an insight into the vastness of rural Namibia. From the grasslands in the east to the red dunes of the west, the slowly changing landscapes represents the many faces of this desert country. Tonight we camp on the doorstep of the dune fields and fall asleep to the unique calls of the elusive Barking Gecko.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Included Highlight: Sesriem Canyon

Watching the sunrise over the red dunes is an iconic highlight of any trip to Namibia and this morning we rise before the sun to capture this magnificent moment. A brisk climb up Dune 45 offers us the perfect vantage point to marvel at the changing colours of the desert sunrise. Once satisfied we descend this famous dune and enjoy a hearty breakfast before catching a 4×4 transfer into Sossusvlei, here we will spend time on foot visiting the pans at Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. Our day in the desert continues this afternoon as we join a local expert for an educational desert excursion. Tonight we empty the red sand from our shoes and spend the night under the magnificent desert stars, knowing that we have spent a full-day enjoying the wonders of this harsh land.

Meals Breakfast: Lunch, Dinner

Included Highlight: Sunrise hike up Dune 45, 4×4 shuttle to Sossusvlei / Deadvlei, Guided desert walk with local expert

Reluctantly we leave the Namib behind and after a stop to mark our crossing of the Tropic of Capricorn, we continue to the Atlantic coastline.
Today we continue west and make our way to the coastal town of Swakopmund, where adventure and a dose of civilisation await. We make a brief stop at the Walvis Bay lagoon, where we hope to catch a glimpse of the Flamingo’s that feed in the shallows. Arriving in Swakopmund we will have the opportunity to book some of the many adventures on offer.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Included Activity: Tropic of Capricorn, Walvis Bay Lagoon

While for many it is the adrenaline fuelled adventures that will grab their attention, Swakopmund offers all that and more. Take the opportunity today to explore the town at your leisure, as there are a number of attractions for every taste. Not to be missed is the selection of famed coffee shops and bakeries that offer a delightful range of German inspired treats. Swakopmund offers all the conveniences of a small city and is the perfect launching pad for the journey through the northern reaches of the land.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Optional Activity: Dolphin cruise, Skydiving, sandboarding, Quad biking, Dinner

Leaving early, we make our way to the massive granite formations of Spitzkoppe which tower 700 metres above the desert plains below. The presence of rock art indicates their significance to the San people who lived here many years ago. We will enjoy a walk and have the opportunity to view some examples of the San’s rock art before setting off for our overnight stop for the evening.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Included Highlight: Visit and explore Spitzkoppe

The Brandberg (Burning Mountains) are regarded as the highest in Namibia and home to the famous White Lady, one of more than 45,000 rock paintings in the area. This morning we will make the 1-hour hike to visit the painting that is said to be around 2,000 years old. (Please be advised that the hike does traverse rough terrain along the gorge of the normally dry Tsisab River). After our exploration, our journey continues to the area of Kamanjab. For those who would like to visit an educational centre showcasing the lifestyle of the Himba Tribe, you will have the opportunity to
book an optional excursion this afternoon.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Included Highlight: Brandberg White Lady hike

Rising early this morning we drive to the Etosha National Park. Etosha is the venue for some of the most unique game viewing experiences in Africa. This afternoon we reach the park and begin with our first game drive as we make our way to the rest camp.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Included Highlight: Afternoon game drive in Nomad truck

Our second day in Etosha allows for a full day to continue our exploration of the park. No day on safari is ever the same and the suspense before that special sighting is the motivation that keeps our eyes wide open. We explore the edges of Etosha Pan in search of the abundant wildlife that occurs in the park.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Included Highlight: Full-day game drive in Nomad truck

It is an early rise as we take aim for Windhoek, the capital city of Namibia. Upon arrival in Windhoek, we will take a short walk through the city centre and have the opportunity to view some its better known landmarks. (Our accommodation for the night is situated halfway between the city and the airport).

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Included Highlight: Walk through Windhoek with your guide

Today we travel east and make our way to neighbouring Botswana and the Kalahari Desert. Starkly different to the Namib Desert after which Namibia is named, the Kalahari is no less dramatic and covers over 900 000 square kilometers. The San people have long been associated with this
harsh environment and this Afternoon we will enjoy an informative guided walk with the San community. Tonight we enjoy a dance evening that provides an insight into their culture of song, dance and story-telling.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Included Highlight: San Tribal dance in evening / San Guided Walk (this activity could take place the next morning)

This morning we rise early and head towards Maun, where upon arrival in Maun this afternoon, you will have the opportunity to go on an optional scenic flight over the Delta (time and weather permitting). This evening our guide will prepare us on what to expect on our full day excursion into the Okavango Delta.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Optional Activity: Okavango Delta scenic flight

Optional Highlight: Okavango Delta scenic flight

The most rewarding and enjoyable way to explore and experience the beauty and serenity of this intricate system of lily covered channels and lagoons is by mokoro. Heading out early, we will be transferred by safari vehicle to the poling station (approximately 1 hour transfer) where we will meet the polers who will be escorting us into the Delta. The polers will steer us through the serene area of narrow, reed lined channels which
open out onto beautiful lagoons. Reaching one of the many islands, a nature walk may be taken with your poler. After the walk, we return by mokoro through the channels back to the poling station. While the mokoro trail is not primarily a game viewing activity, a variety of game may be
spotted in this pristine wilderness area, including elephant, giraffe, kudu, impala and zebra.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Included Highlight: Okavango Delta Day Excursion

Leaving Maun behind us this morning we make our way towards the town of Nata. We will spend most of the day in our truck as we journey across the northern reaches of the Makgadikgadi Pans. On arrival at Nata Lodge, you have the opportunity to enjoy an optional afternoon guided game drive to the Makgadikgadi Pans, which forms the breeding ground for a host of water birds including pelicans and flamingo in their
thousands.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Optional Activity: Oakgadikgadi Salt Pans (Nata Sanctuary)

We rise early this morning as we continue north to our camp on the banks of the Chobe River. This afternoon is set aside for exploring the Chobe National Park. We begin our exploration with an optional game drive in 4×4 vehicles and our afternoon ends with a leisurely boat cruise which allows us an up close and personal experience with the many elephants that frequent the river in the afternoons.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Included Activity: Chobe National Park boat cruise

Optional Activity: Chobe National Park Game Drive

With the memories of our wildlife encounters firmly etched in our minds, we cross the border into Zimbabwe this morning and travel the short distance to Victoria Falls. Today you will have the opportunity to visit the spectacular Victoria Falls at your leisure, also known by the local name of “Mosi-oa Tunya” (the smoke that thunders). While much of today is dedicated to viewing the mighty Zambezi River as it drops into the Batoka Gorge below, the bustling adventure town of Victoria Falls also offers a range of optional activities for those wanting a dose of adrenaline in the afternoon. For the more relaxed traveller there are craft markets and coffee shops on offer as well.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Optional Activity: Victoria Falls National Park Entry

Your tour comes to an end after breakfast and with the many activities on offer in Victoria Falls, today is the perfect day for the adventure that most suites your style. Whether rafting the mighty Zambezi River or enjoying a flight over the Falls, this is your day to enjoy the many attractions on offer in Victoria Falls.

Meals: Breakfast

Optional Activity: Zambezi Sunset Cruise, Bungee Jump, Helicopter Flights, White Water Rafting

Setting off early from Victoria Falls, we catch a last sighting of the mighty falls before crossing the border into Zambia. While we have a long day travelling today, we get our first impressions of the Africa that awaits us. Colourful markets, busy villages and rural scenes form the backdrop of our journey to the outskirts of Lusaka. We enjoy a prepared meal on arrival as our guides brief us on the days ahead.

Meals                                      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Included Highlight                  View of Victoria Falls from the Bridge

This morning we drive through Zambia’s busy capital Lusaka before turning east towards Petauke, our destination for the night. As an important link between Lusaka and neighbouring Malawi, the Great East Road winds through rural Zambia and we will cross the mighty Luangwa River along the way. Dotted with villages and subsistence farms, todays landscapes serve as a stark contrast to the developed countries so many of us call home.

Meals                                      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

With two days of travel behind us we look forward to the tranquillity of South Luangwa and this morning we make our way to the banks of the Luangwa River. Our first stop though is the town of Chipata, home of Chipata Cotton and an important centre for the cotton famers of the region. Tribal Textiles represents the creativity of the African culture and those interested can enjoy a tour of their workshops (March to December). One of the finest sunsets is surely that enjoyed on the banks of the Luangwa River, so grab a cold drink and watch the day fade away.

Meals                                      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Included Highlight                 Textile visit

South Luangwa National Park is a world-class safari destination and we have a full day to explore the park in search of the variety of wildlife found in the park. This morning you can partake in an optional morning safari or during the dry season (April to December) you can join one of the iconic walking safaris on offer in the park. This afternoon we will enjoy a sunset drive in the park including a sundowner stop. The unique opportunity to explore the park at night gives us a chance to spot the elusive nocturnal species that are rarely seen in the day.

Meals                                      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Included Highlight                 Sunset Game Drive in South Luangwa National Park

Optional Activity                    Safari Walk (seasonal) or Morning Game Drive in South Luangwa

Day 25 – Lake Malawi

This morning we board our truck and set off for Malawi, the warm heart of Africa. Our destination tonight is the shores of Lake Malawi, the southernmost lake in the East African Rift system. As one of the ten largest lakes in the world, the lake stretches for over 500km along the western boundary of Malawi and is home to more species of fish than any other lake. We spend the night on the shores of this natural wonder.

Meals                                      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is set aside for you to relax at the lake.  Use the time to read a book, soak up the sun or indulge in the many attractions that are on offer.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we are back on the road for most of the day travelling further north and will overnight once again on the banks of Lake Malawi.  Enjoy the sunset over the lake from the beach. Your guide will assist you to plan your activities for the coming days, or you can simply slow your clock to Africa time relaxing on the lake shore.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Snorkelling in the crystal waters offers the chance to see first-hand the brilliantly coloured tropical cichlids, tiny fish often found in colourful aquariums around the world. Your afternoon will be spent walking through the small village of Ngala.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Included Highlight: Ngala Village Walk

Today as we leave Malawi, we ascend the Great Rift Valley and make our way into Tanzania. We round the northern extremes of the lake as we turn east and continue to our overnight stop in Iringa.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning we complete our journey to the doorstep of Mikumi National Park. Mikumi ranks as the fourth largest park in Tanzania, but forms part of a 75 000 square kilometre wilderness that centres on Selous, Africa’s largest game reserve. Today you will have the opportunity to book a game drive in Mikumi National Park.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Optional Activity: Mikumi Game Drive

We rise early and travel from Mikumi to the Port of Dar Es Salaam, where we will board the ferry and make the ocean journey to the island of Zanzibar. Our home for the next three nights, Stone Town offers a perfect stop to enjoy the beaches and activities on offer.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is a free day for enjoying some of the many attractions and activities on offer. Water sports are the order of the day and you have the opportunity to book activities such as fishing, snorkelling, scuba diving and a variety of ocean safari options. Whatever it is you chose to do today, you will have ample opportunity to create some island memories. Rent a scooter and explore the many attractions on offer or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Optional Activity: Fishing, Snorkelling, Scuba Diving, Turtle Sanctuary Visit, Village Tours, Jozani Forest and more.

Included Highlight: Spice Tour and City Tour

Today we explore the beautiful Jozani Forest. For those wanting to do their last bit of sightseeing, the afternoon is free for optional activities. Boasting a rich history this bustling port was once a landmark on both the Slave and Spice trade routes.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Included Highlight: Jozani Forest Half Day tour

This morning we have some time to explore the sights of Stone Town, the rich history and vibrant markets are some of the highlights of any visit to Zanzibar. We bid farewell to the island and board our return ferry to Dar es Salaam, where your tour will come to an end upon arrival.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch 

Accommodation

Own Arrangements / Post tour accommodation can be booked through agency of by yourself.