Cape Town to Kenya

Intrepid Travel · 49 days

4.6

6 Reviews

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Duration

49 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Basic

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Travel from coast to coast and through the heart of southern Africa on a 49-day overland journey. Begin in beautiful Cape Town and voyage through desert landscapes, rolling savannas and lush mountainscapes.

Highlights

Explore Africa’s national parks by overland truck, mokoro canoe, and 4WD safari vehicles. Spot iconic wildlife, including hippos, buffalo and lions as you journey through Serengeti and Chobe – just a few of the many you’ll visit!
Listen to the songs and stories of Namibia’s San people, the oldest inhabitants of Southern Africa, and gain an insight into their traditional customs and beliefs.
Visit a workshop where local women transform snares set by poachers into beautiful jewellery inspired by the African landscape, with proceeds supporting conservation efforts.
Wild camp on a remote island deep in the Okavango Delta. As night falls, listen to the sounds of the bush coming alive.
Chill out on the white sands of Zanzibar’s northern beaches after spending a night exploring the winding alleyways of Stone Town.

Trip Details

Duration

49 days

Transportation

Overland Vehicle, 4WD Safari Vehicle, Ferry, Minibus, Mokoro

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Cape Town, Botswana

Finishes

Nairobi, Botswana

Accommodations

Basic

Travel Style

Overland Expedition

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

Day 1: Cape Town

Sawubona! Welcome to South Africa. With its stunning coastline, modern cityscape and nearby mountains, Cape Town is one of Africa's most exciting cities. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm this evening. If you arrive early, why not get out and explore Cape Town, maybe with a walk in Newlands Forest or by jumping on the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway. You could also head down to the waterfront to see Cape Town Stadium up close. After the meeting, ask your leader where the best dinner spots are and consider heading out for a welcome dinner with your group.

Optional Activities:

Cape Town - Table Mountain Hike (1600 ZAR)
Cape Town - Table Mountain Aerial Cable (380 ZAR)
Cape Town - Robben Island tour (550 ZAR)
Cape Town - Best of the Cape Combo Tour - Full Day (2000 ZAR)
Cape Town - Cape Peninsula and SUP Tour - Full Day (2100 ZAR)
Cape Town - Robben Island Ferry & Table Mountain Tour - Full Day (1800 ZAR)
Cape Town - Winelands Tour - Full Day (1800 ZAR)
Cape Town - Winelands Tour - Half Day (1350 ZAR)
Cape Town - Cape Peninsula & Table Mountain Tour - Full Day (2000 ZAR)
Cape Town - Cape Malay Cooking Tour - Half Day (1200 ZAR)
Cape Town - Township Experience - Half Day (965 ZAR)
Cape Town - City and Waterfront Tour - Half Day (1100 ZAR)
Cape Town - Cape Peninsula & Kirstenbosch Tour - Full Day (2000 ZAR)
Cape Town - District Six & Bo-Kapp Cultural Tour - Half Day (965 ZAR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Klawer

Leaving Cape Town behind, travel up the Western Cape today. Sit back, relax and enjoy the sprawling scenery. Tonight, you’ll stay on a working farm with your group. This is a great chance to gain an insight into everyday life in this remote part of South Africa. The surrounding countryside is perfectly explored on foot, so if there’s time, maybe take a walk around the nearby mountains and farms before settling in for the evening.

Optional Activities:

Klawer - Winery visit & tasting (140 ZAR)

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Orange River

Journey to the Orange River – the beautiful natural border between South Africa and Namibia. On the way, you'll pass through Namaqualand, which is renowned for its wildflowers that spring up from late July to mid-September. Traditionally known as the Gariep River, the Orange River is the longest in South Africa (2200 km). Its source is high up in the Drakensberg Mountain Range in Lesotho, and it flows into the Atlantic Ocean at Alexander Bay in South Africa.

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Fish River Canyon

This morning, there’s an optional canoe adventure on the Orange River. Floating leisurely down the stream is a great way to discover the beauty of this region. After, head further west into the desert lands of Namibia towards Fish River Canyon. At 500 m deep and over 160 km long, Fish River Canyon is one of the largest canyons in the world. At any time of year there are remarkable photo opportunities here as you watch the colour of the granite rocks change as the sun goes down.

Included Activities:

Fish River Canyon - Canyon entrance

Optional Activities:

Orange River - Canoe trip (550 NAD)

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Sesriem

Be ready for a long travel day as you drive toward the fabled dunes of Namibia. You’ll have the opportunity to stop at a market or shop to stock up on supplies before tomorrow's bush camp. When you arrive, stretch your legs and take in the exciting desert scenes. You’ll be situated in the most famous part of the Namib Desert, among the vast dune fields – the most spectacular of which are found near the Sesriem Canyon. Get an early night in preparation for your dawn hike tomorrow.

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Sossusvlei

Wake up before dawn and scramble to the top of the dunes for a dramatic sunrise view across a vast sea of sand. The colour changes as the sun creeps up above the horizon and the views are nothing short of incredible, providing a spectacular setting for your brunch. The dunes themselves are some of the highest in the world and home to much animal life. After, jump in the back of a pickup truck for a trip to Sossusvlei – the incredible salt and clay pan nearby. You'll have time to explore this mysterious desert oddity at your own pace. In the afternoon, drive to your bush camp in the heart of the Namib Desert.

Included Activities:

Sossusvlei - 4x4 Tour
Sesriem - Sand dunes visit

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Swakopmund

Continue to Swakopmund today. Surrounded by the massive dune fields of the Namib Desert on three sides and the Atlantic Ocean on the other, Swakopmund is an ideal place for outdoor activities. The township has an interesting German–Namibian atmosphere, which makes it a pleasant place to simply walk around and explore. You could also visit the Swakopmund Museum today – the largest privately run Museum in Namibia housing exhibitions on zoology, geology and technology.

Accommodation:

Chalet (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Swakopmund

With a free day today, it's worth checking out the Germanic architecture of the area and maybe taking the opportunity to do some souvenir shopping. If you're after a dose of history and culture, you can stop in at the lighthouse and visit the Swakopmund Museum. Active types and thrill-seekers might like to take advantage of the many outdoor activities on offer – this town is the adventure-sports capital of Namibia.

Optional Activities:

Swakopmund - Swakopmund Museum (2 USD)
Swakopmund - Sea kayaking (85 USD)
Swakopmund - Seal and dolphin cruise (60 USD)
Swakopmund - Horse riding (65 USD)
Swakopmund – Living Desert Tour (60 USD)
Swakopmund – Township Tour (45 USD)

Accommodation:

Chalet (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Swakopmund

With another free day in this beautiful seaside town, you might like to do some reading, relaxing and swimming. Alternatively, you can venture further afield – perhaps to the Okakambe Trails or the Camel Farm (both located in the same area, around 12 km east of town). A horse ride or camel ride is a great way to see the desert from a different perspective.

Optional Activities:

Swakopmund - Horse riding (65 USD)
Swakopmund - Seal and dolphin cruise (60 USD)
Swakopmund - Swakopmund Museum (2 USD)
Swakopmund - Sea kayaking (85 USD)

Accommodation:

Chalet (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Spitzkoppe

Travel to Spitzkoppe today. Experience the sight, sound and smell of thousands of olive-coloured seals on the shores of Cape Cross while travelling up the Atlantic Coast. Visit one of the most stunning areas of Namibia – the wild lands around the mountain of Spitzkoppe, also known as the Matterhorn of Namibia. Although you shouldn't try to climb to the top, there are some excellent hikes and guided walks throughout the area, which is rich in plant life. The Spitzkoppe is known for its stunning beauty and the thousands of ancient Bushmen rock art paintings that are still on view. Be sure to look out for the sunset from your bush camp this evening – the landscape is known to take on dazzling oranges and reds.

Included Activities:

Cape Cross Nature Reserve - Cape Cross seal colony

Optional Activities:

Spitzkoppe - San People rock painting guided walk (50 ZAR)

Accommodation:

Camping (with basic facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Etosha National Park

This morning, set off and travel to Etosha National Park, stopping at a market or shop and ATM if required. Etosha is among the world's best places to view wildlife. A wide range of southern Africa's animals roams freely here, including all the big carnivores and rare or endangered species, including black rhino, Hartmann's mountain zebra, black-faced impala, roan antelope and the tiny Damara dik-dik. Tonight, there’s an option to take an evening game drive (subject to availability) before spending the night at the Okaukuejo Camp. The camp overlooks a floodlit waterhole visited by many different species throughout the day and night.

Optional Activities:

Etosha National Park - Evening Game Drive (750 ZAR)

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Etosha National Park

Enjoy a full-day game drive in Etosha National Park. Game viewing in the park is relatively easy due to the constructed waterholes and the large, sparsely vegetated pans. The bushland surrounding the pans is difficult to see through, but there are enough clearings, pans and waterholes to usually allow for some sightings. Namibia has protected its game reserves against poaching, which means significant numbers of elephants, antelope and other herbivores reside here. This evening you will spend the night at Namutoni Camp.

Included Activities:

Etosha National Park - Overland Vehicle Game Drive

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Grootfontein

Leave Etosha behind and continue to your next camp, which is located 50 km outside Grootfontein. This will be your base for visiting the San people tomorrow. When you arrive at camp, stretch your legs, maybe go for a swim and kick back with your fellow travellers for a relaxed evening.

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 14: Grootfontein

Embark on a 180-km round-trip to visit the San people today. You'll go out walking with some of the tribe, listening to their stories and songs. You'll soon discover that they communicate in a unique and fascinating Khoisan dialect, commonly known as a 'clicking' language. The San are the oldest ethnic group in Namibia, having inhabited southern Africa for an estimated 20,000 years. Around 30,000 of them live in Namibia, but only 2000 still follow a traditional way of life. The San have a deep understanding of nature and ecology, living in harmony with their environment.

Included Activities:

Grootfontein - San Bushman cultural experience

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 15: Bagani

Head to Bagani today, where you’ll set up camp for the night. Bagani is a small, friendly town with plenty of nice spots to relax and soak up the ambience as you catch the sunset over the Okavango River. You may even spot grunting hippos coming out of the waters to graze! This area is the homestead of the local Mbukushu kings and their kingdom.

Optional Activities:

Bagani - Sunset Cruise (25 USD)

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 16: Okavango Delta

Drive across the border into Botswana and head south along the Okavango Panhandle (the narrowest part of the delta) to Sepopa. Here, you'll leave your vehicle behind as you journey by boat into the delta to your bush camp on an island away from civilisation. Punting along past birds and lily pads, you'll hear hippos occasionally interrupting the peaceful atmosphere with their charming grunts.

Included Activities:

Okavango Delta - Mokoro safari
Okavango Delta - Boat Safari

Accommodation:

Camping (without facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 17: Okavango Delta

After breakfast, head out for your mokoro experience. Each mokoro (small dugout canoe) takes two people and is poled along through the meandering waterways by a local tribesman. You’ll also take a short nature walk with your guide to discover the beautiful natural surroundings, gain some insight into the history of the local area and look out for different bird species and occasionally, even elephants. After your trip around the delta, return by boat to the relative civilisation of Sepopa Camp, featuring hot showers, a swimming pool and a small bar. Today, there is an option to take a scenic flight to have an aerial view of the Delta.

Included Activities:

Okavango Delta - Nature Walk
Okavango Delta - Mokoro Safari
Okavango Delta - Nature walk

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 18: Bagani

Leave the delta behind today and return to Bagani for the night. There will be time to take part in an optional boat trip when you arrive, or you can opt for a picturesque sunset cruise. Alternatively, relax and recharge at camp.

Optional Activities:

Bagani - Sunset Cruise (25 USD)

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 19: Kasane

Setting off from Bagani this morning, you’ll drive to the incredible Chobe National Park. Catch a window seat if you can and watch the rolling landscape pass you by or play some road trip games with your newfound friends. Enter Botswana at the Goma border, which is also the gateway to the park. When you arrive, take an optional cruise down the Chobe River – one of the best ways to witness some of the park's many animals, like hippos, elephants and buffalo.

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 20: Chobe National Park

Enjoy an early-morning game drive this morning. Adventuring through the park, you’ll have the opportunity to get up close to the wildlife and with luck, you’ll spot lions, buffalo and exotic birds. Botswana's first national park is famous for its high concentration of elephants, so keep an eye out for herds walking by, too. They can also often be seen swimming in the Chobe River! The river also attracts buffalo, hippos and crocodiles who like to sun themselves by the water's edge. In the afternoon, perhaps take an optional boat cruise to gain a different view of these amazing animals or take another optional afternoon game drive into the national park.

Included Activities:

Chobe National Park - Dawn 4WD Safari

Optional Activities:

Chobe National Park - Boat Cruise (270 BWP)
Chobe National Park - 4WD Safari (580 BWP)

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 21: Victoria Falls

This morning, travel to Victoria Falls, crossing the border into Zimbabwe just in time to have lunch on the banks of the Zambezi River. Set up camp and enjoy some free time to relax, freshen up, and plan out your next couple of days in Victoria Falls. Be sure to ask your local leader for their tips and advice.

Optional Activities:

Victoria Falls - Victoria Falls entrance (50 USD)

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 22: Victoria Falls

Spend the day soaking in the sights and sounds of Victoria Falls until your next welcome meeting at 4 pm tonight. Maybe explore the magnificent Victoria Falls – a thundering curtain of water approximately 1.5 km wide, falling 108 m into a narrow gorge below. In the wet season, the spray created can rise an incredible 400 m, and the falls become a raging torrent. In the dry season, the view of the falls is unobstructed by spray, and you can see little islets in the river below. After the meeting, why not grab dinner with your new group and get to know each other.

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 23: Victoria Falls

Today is completely free for you to choose your own adventure! Perhaps take an optional helicopter flight for a breathtaking view of the falls from above, visit one of the local breweries for a taste of the region’s craft scene, or enjoy a sunset cruise along the Zambezi River. However you spend the day, make sure to rest up and get ready for tomorrow’s journey across the border into Zambia.

Optional Activities:

Victoria Falls - Victoria Falls entrance (50 USD)
Victoria Falls - Rafting & river boarding (half day) (218 USD)
Victoria Falls - Village & township tour (61 USD)
Victoria Falls - Canoe trail wine route (55 USD)
Victoria Falls - Canoe trail (full day) (185 USD)
Victoria Falls - Helicopter Flight of the Angels (12 mins - Excludes US$25 fuel surcharge and NP fees) (150 USD)
Victoria Falls - Helicopter Flight (25 mins - Excludes US$30 fuel surcharge and NP fees) (284 USD)

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 24: Lusaka

This morning, travel to Lusaka. Today is a bit of a long travel day, so it’s the perfect chance to get stuck into a good book or catch up on your favourite podcasts. After crossing the border from Zimbabwe into Zambia, continue to your campsite on a private farm surrounded by the natural bushland, just outside of the city. When you arrive, set up camp, settle in, and spend some time exploring the camp, stretching your legs as you try to spot impala, giraffes, or even zebras wandering through!

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 25: Lower Zambezi

After breakfast, you’ll travel to Lower Zambezi National Park – located on the Zimbabwean border and famous for its spectacular Zambezi River valley and abundant wildlife, including fish eagles, buffalo, and elephants. Tonight, you’ll camp in the wildlife-rich Chiawa area, surrounded by native bush with animals roaming freely through the camp.

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 26: Lower Zambezi

Set off on a full-day safari through one of Zambia’s best wildlife viewing areas – Lower Zambezi National Park. This park is set along a wide floodplain of the Zambezi River, dotted with acacias and towering trees, and framed by a dramatic slope to the north, covered in thick miombo woodland. Across the river you'll see Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools National Park - the two parks forming one of Africa’s most amazing wilderness areas. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, leopards, lions, cheetahs and birds along the way.

Included Activities:

Lower Zambezi National Park - Full Day Safari

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 27: Petauke

Wake up early and begin your journey to Petauke – a town in the Eastern Province of Zambia. Along the way, watch the ever-changing scenery shift from open plains to rural villages and bustling roadside markets, offering a glimpse into daily Zambian life. Tonight, enjoy a well-earned rest at your camp, under the African night sky.

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 28: South Luangwa National Park

After breakfast, travel to a workshop in South Luangwa where local craftswomen transform snare wire, recovered from poaching traps, into jewellery inspired by the African bush. When you arrive, the women will show you around their purpose-built workshop, then try your hand at coiling or hammering the wire yourself! After, continue your journey through the heartland to South Luangwa National Park. When you arrive, maybe set out on a game walk or river trip to see South Luangwa’s beautiful scenery as the sun slowly sets – just ask your local leader for more details!

Included Activities:

South Luangwa - Anti-Poaching Jewelery Project

Optional Activities:

South Luangwa National Park - Game Walk (50 USD)

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 29: Chipata

After breakfast, you’ll spot iconic African wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, leopards, Thornicroft’s giraffes and lions, on a 4WD safari with a local guide. Learn about the region’s diverse landscapes and animals, then make tracks to your next camp near Chipata for the night.

Included Activities:

South Luangwa National Park - Morning 4WD Safari

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 30: Lake Malawi

Cross the border into Malawi and continue straight to your camp on the shores of Lake Malawi. The country is dominated by its lake, which covers almost a fifth of the country and provides a livelihood for many local people. Fishermen, fish traders, and canoe and net makers all ply their trade on the water. Your campsite sits right on the shore so you can relax on the beach after todays drive.

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 31: Lake Malawi

Enjoy a free day to soak up the lake’s sandy shores. Maybe take a refreshing dip in the lake, explore the surrounding area by bike, or join a guided snorkelling trip. Lake Malawi’s high alkalinity has created an abundance of brightly coloured fish and relatively few plants, resulting in a tropical, ocean-like snorkelling experience within a landlocked freshwater lake. Tonight, maybe find a local restaurant for dinner – your local leader will have the best recommendations!

Optional Activities:

Lake Malawi - Bike Hire (25 USD)

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 32: Chitimba

Drive to your camp in Chitimba, which lies along the coast of Lake Malawi and has lovely beaches, friendly locals and a laidback atmosphere. When you arrive, perhaps take a stroll and acquaint yourself with this different part of the lake. Enjoy the scenery of banana palms, papaya trees and the Livingstonia and Nyika mountains looming nearby.

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 33: Iringa

This morning you can take an optional walk in the nearby village, an opportunity to meet some local Malawians-easily some of the friendliest people in Africa. Enjoy a free afternoon chilling out on the lake’s sandy shores, time to soak up your idyllic surroundings you can take a dip in the lake or try out cycling to the hilly villages. Perhaps cool off with an optional snorkelling trip with a local guide. Lake Malawi's high alkalinity has resulted in an abundance of brightly coloured fish and relatively low levels of plants. What you end up with is a tropical ocean-like snorkelling experience within a landlocked freshwater lake.

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 34: Mikumi National Park

Today you'll drive to the edge of Mikumi National Park. Situated at the foot of the thickly wooded Uluguru Mountains, Mikumi is Tanzania's fourth largest national park. When you arrive, the rest of the day is free to explore at your own pace. Tonight, join your fellow travellers for dinner.

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 35: Mikumi National Park

Journey off-the-beaten-track today as you explore Mikumi National Park – a landscape of baobab-studded plains and open savannahs. Mikumi is the fourth largest national park in the country, located near Morogoro. Join an expert guide on a 4WD safari, where you’ll see herds of buffalo, wildebeest, giraffe, elephant, and zebra.

Included Activities:

Mikumi National Park - 4WD Safari

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 36: Dar es Salaam

Sit back, relax and enjoy the scenic drive to Kipepo Beach, located on the white sandy beaches on the south coast of Dar es Salaam. Once you arrive, set up camp and take some time to unwind – maybe enjoy a stroll along the shore. Your camp for the night is set on the grounds of a hotel right next to the beach, offering the perfect opportunity to unwind and take a refreshing dip in the Indian Ocean.

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 37: Dar es Salaam

Today is a free day to explore at your own pace. Enjoy a day at the beach or head into Dar es Salaam to explore Tanzania's largest city and cultural centre. Maybe start your morning at Kivukoni Fish Market, where fishing dhows unload their fresh catch and the city buzzes to life with the day’s first light. In the city centre, tea vendors wander the streets, shops sell spicy samosas, and the mix of African, Arabic, Indian, and German architecture tells the story of Dar es Salaam’s rich cultural blend.

Optional Activities:

Dar es Salaam - Kivukoni Fish Market - Free

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 38: Zanzibar

Catch a ferry to Zanzibar, Africa’s famous ‘Spice Island.’ On arrival, enjoy some free time to discover Zanzibar City at your own pace. Lose yourself in the maze of cobblestone alleyways in Stone Town, admire the mix of Arabic, African and European architecture, or soak up the bustling atmosphere of Darajani Bazaar. This afternoon, you’ll have another welcome meeting at 2 pm to meet the new travellers joining you on the next leg of your adventure. After your meeting, perhaps head out together for dinner at a local restaurant – your leader will have the best recommendations.

Optional Activities:

Stone Town Tour - Dharajani Market, Joseph's Cathederal, Palace Museum, Forodhani Food Market (20 USD)
Zanzibar - Prison Island Tour (25 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 39: Zanzibar

Once checked out of your Stone Town accommodation, consider booking in to an optional guided tour of the island's spice plantations, learning all about the history of this town's spice trade. You will have the opportunity to smell and taste various spices, such as cinnamon, vanilla and ginger, plus sample some teas made with these spices too. After lunch, head to the Northern Beaches, where white sands and sparkling blue seas await. This is the Indian Ocean at its best.

Optional Activities:

Zanzibar - Spice tour (25 USD)

Accommodation:

Bungalow (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 40: Zanzibar

Ease into the day with the sound of gentle waves and soft ocean breezes. With a full day free to enjoy Zanzibar’s coastline, you might choose to take a refreshing swim, stretch out on the beach beneath the palms, or savour the flavours of the island with a seafood dinner by the water. However you spend it, today is all about slowing down and letting the rhythm of island life take over.

Accommodation:

Bungalow (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 41: Stone Town

Say goodbye to Zanzibar’s northern beaches this morning as you travel back to Stone Town. Here you’ll meet new members of your group at an 11 am welcome meeting before taking the ferry back to Dar es Salaam. Say hello to your driver and cook before boarding your overland vehicle for the short drive to you camp in Bagamoyo, a lovely spot by the beach.

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 42: Usambara Mountains

Travel into the remote Usambara Mountains (approximately 7 hours). This unspoilt area of Tanzania attracts very few tourists, making it the perfect place to soak in your surroundings. The forests stretch across the mountains and are ideal for easy hikes and guided walks. You base is the old German colony of Lushoto, where you’ll stay on the grounds of one of the earliest hotels in Africa.

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 43: Usambara Mountains

Today, explore the beautiful Usambara Mountains and experience this area’s gentle hospitality on a visit to some of its small communities. From your base, hike to the gorgeous Irente viewpoint. It's best to pack some water and snacks in a day pack for this trip. On your way back, visit a local cultural project based at Irente farm and enjoy a locally prepared lunch.

Included Activities:

Irente - Lushoto hike
Irente - Local lunch

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 44: Arusha

Today, journey from the scenic Usambara Mountains to Arusha. While there are no planned activities, enjoy the drive through Tanzania's picturesque landscapes as you make your way to the bustling gateway to the northern safari circuit. Upon arrival at your campsite on the outskirts of town, unwind and settle in for a restful evening and prepare for the adventures ahead.

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 45: Karatu

After breakfast this morning, head to Karatu, the gateway to the Ngorongoro Crater. Here, you'll hike through the Ngorongoro Reserve Forest to Elephant Caves and the Endoro waterfalls along the way. Rich with calcium, the Elephant Caves got their name as elephants would come here and break off pieces of rock, eating the dust to receive important minerals. Today's trek, accompanied by an expert local guide and armed ranger, is the perfect way to stretch your legs after a few days of overland travel. You'll hike through Ngorongoro rainforest as your local guide explains the ins and outs of the area here and points out interesting animal tracks and footprints. Marvel at the wild landscape and spot beautiful birdlife as you walk. After, head to Karatu village for a tour of the local coffee farm. Here, you'll see the innovative farming practices from the locals and learn about the farming activities that sustain the coffee, bean, maize, banana, soya and pea crops. Tonight, enjoy a traditional dinner with a local Tanzanian family in their home, who will cook you a few different dishes to try. Learn about the local culture with educational stories from a locally trained guide. What a night!

Included Activities:

Ngorongoro Forest - Elephant Cave Trek
Karatu - Home-Cooked Dinner
Karatu - Coffee Farm Tour

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 46: Serengeti National Park

Get up early, put your camping and personal gear into a six-person jeep and head out for an excursion into the Serengeti via the Ngorongoro Crater. Enjoy a safari in the crater, spending between 3 and 4 hours exploring this perfectly intact volcanic crater. Watch for black rhinos, lions, leopards, elephants, impalas, zebras and hippos. Next, move on to the open plains of the Serengeti. Green after the rains, brown and burnt in the dry season, this is perhaps the quintessential image of Africa – the home of thousands of hoofed animals and fierce predators. Your campsite is within the Serengeti itself, so listen out for the sounds of nocturnal animals as you drift off to sleep.

Included Activities:

Ngorongoro Crater - 4x4 Game Drive
Serengeti National Park - Morning 4WD Safari

Accommodation:

Camping (with basic facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 47: Serengeti National Park

Wake at dawn and embark on a game drive. You will head out while the animals are at their most active, then go back to camp for brunch at around 11 am. After spending the middle of the day relaxing, just like the animals do, head out again as the day begins to cool. You'll return from this second game drive in time for dinner. There's also the option today of a balloon ride over the park (in place of a portion of the morning game drive). If you have pre-booked this activity you will be picked up before dawn and driven to the launch site. After a safety briefing, you will glide through the dawn, sometimes at tree height, which provides amazing photo opportunities. After landing, you'll be treated to a five-star bush breakfast, then be returned to your camp.

Optional Activities:

Serengeti National Park - Balloon Ride (from price) (800 USD)

Accommodation:

Camping (with basic facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 48: Mto Wa Mbu

Rise with the sun and enjoy another game drive as you leave the Serengeti in your dust. Jump back into your overland vehicle and head for Mto wa Mbu. After setting up camp, we'll take a guided stroll through the farming areas, local homes and farmlands, getting to know the local community and their way of life. Later, we'll enjoy a scrumptious locally prepared dinner in town.

Included Activities:

Mto Wa Mbu - Village walk & local dinner

Accommodation:

Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 49: Nairobi

Set off early and cross the Kenyan border then continue to Nairobi. You'll be dropped at the finishing point hotel in Nairobi where your trip ends. If you'd like to stay longer, just speak to your booking agent.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We will do our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling.

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $11,825

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 49 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 12 Apr 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

Darcey

Traveled, November 2023

01/08/2024

This short section of what was the vic Falls to Gorillas trip for me was incredible. The Serengeti is insane, our time spent here with the big cats was extraordinary. Simon, our chef made us delicious 5 star home cooked meals every day 3 times a day, so after a long day of game drives we knew we were coming back to a delicious feast. The 9 days on this leg were jam packed, but incredible.

5.0

Jemma

Traveled, August 2023

09/14/2023

Starting in Cape Town we had amazing facilities and activities on the first leg. This leg had a much reduced facilities as you would expect in poorer countries. We did have amazing game drives in South Luangwa. The Great Zimbabwe ruins were very interesting and Lake Malawi was a beautiful location. Overall this leg of the trip was worse than the first one as it had a LOT of long travel days from 3am wake ups and 8pm arrivals. This was exhausting so be prepared for that.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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