Cape Town to the Serengeti: Deserts & Wilderness

























From AUD $8899
Small Group
Average
Rating
(20 reviews)

Cape Town to the Serengeti: Deserts & Wilderness
40 days
Small Group
Basic
Average
English
Experience Overview
Now's the time to explore Africa on your terms with this tour that's affordable for young travellers. Keen to check off eight countries as "been there" and journey across nearly half of the African continent? Well, give us 40 days and we'll take you on this epic overland adventure.
Now's the time to explore Africa on your terms with this tour that's affordable for young travellers. Keen to check off eight countries as "been there" and journey across nearly half of the African continent? Well, give us 40 days and we'll take you on this epic overland adventure. Marvel at the world's highest sand dunes, float through the Okavango in a dugout "mokoro" canoe, and meet the San People in the blazing Kalahari Desert. You'll soak up vibrant colours, culture, and scenery from the southern tip of Africa up to Kenya. Take the road less travelled and come away with jaw-dropping photos and a deeper understanding of this incredible corner of the globe.
Highlights
- See the "big five" from 4x4 safari vehicles
- Experience cosmopolitan Cape Town
- Cruise through the Okavango Delta in traditional canoes
- View the mighty Victoria Falls
- Relax on the shores of Lake Malawi
- Witness breathtaking dunes in the Namib Desert
- Spot wildlife on the Chobe River
Trip Details
40 days
Lando (overland adventure vehicle), 4x4 safari vehicles, minibus, ferry, walking.
Small Group
English
Cape Town, South Africa
Nairobi, Kenya
Basic
18 - 39 Year Olds Only
Average
Itinerary
Day 1: Cape Town
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!
Get the most out of your time in Cape Town by pre-booking the South African Wine Tour and Tasting extra. If you do, we recommend booking accommodation for an extra night pre-tour as this activity has an early start time. Please note, due to the timings of this activity, there is a possibility you may miss the welcome meeting on day 1 of your tour - in this case, your CEO will leave you a message detailing what time and where you should meet the next morning.
Day 2: Cape Town/Cederberg
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 campsite's swimming pool overlooking the vineyards.
Day 3: Cederberg/Orange River
Day 4: Orange River/Fish River Canyon
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 other's company around the campfire as the stars begin to rise.
Day 5: Fish River Canyon/Namib Desert
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 though you're in the middle of nowhere.
Set up camp and get some rest for the fun days ahead!
Day 6: Namib Desert
After soaking in the desert's 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.
Day 7: Namib Desert/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 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.
Day 8: Swakopmund
You can pre-book your sky dive on the checkout page, or through your Global Connection Officer or travel agent.
Day 9: Swakopmund/Spitzkoppe
What is Spitzkoppe you ask? Great question! It's 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 zones 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 star-gazing!
Day 10: Spitzkoppe/Etosha National Park
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.
After sunset, watch animals at the watering holes near the camping area, which is safe, being well lit with flood lights. Free time at night allows for the option of a night safari in an open vehicle.
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 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, it's 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.
Day 12: Etosha National Park/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.
Day 13: Waterberg Plateau/Windhoek
Day 14: Windhoek/D'kar
Then while the day comes to an end enjoy the warm hospitality of the San Bushmen as the group will be staying at the G Adventures-supported Dqae Qare San Lodge & Camp. The best part? You are making a difference in the lives of this community just by enjoying your time at camp. So sit back, allow yourself to become immersed in their history and culture, sit around the fire, and simply enjoy the moment (can you say best camping spot yet?)
Day 15: D'kar/Maun
Then you have two options for your afternoon. 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, or you can take to the air and book a scenic helicopter flight over the Okavango Delta for a bird's-eye view of the fertile lands at your feet. Search for wildlife as you soar through the sky and feel the rush of excitement in your veins.
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.
Day 16: Maun/Okavango Delta
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 you were just in a vehicle. As night falls on the group gather around the campfire as you count the stars (cheers!)
Day 17: Okavango Delta/Gweta
The group will arrive to 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.
Day 18: Gweta/Kasane
Journey to the area of Chobe National Park, home to the largest elephant population in Southern Africa. The best way to appreciate the area's thousands of resident elephants, crocodiles and hippos, is with an optional sunset boat cruise on the Chobe River.
You can pre-book the Chobe River Sunset Cruise on the checkout page, or through your Global Connection Officer or travel agent.
Day 19: Kasane/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.
Day 20: Victoria Falls
For the adventurous we recommend going whitewater rafting, taking a scenic helicopter flight over the falls (epic selfies anyone?), or taking the plunge (literally) while bungee jumping with Victoria Falls in sight. (Oh man... just thinking of that makes our heads spin and our palms sweat!) Not looking to turn your hair gray today? Either way the choice is yours, but remember you're here now so why not escape those comfort zones?
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.
Day 21: Victoria Falls
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.
Day 22: Victoria Falls/Lusaka
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.
Day 23: Lusaka/South Luangwa
Day 24: South Luangwa
Day 25: South Luangwa/Chipata
Day 26: Chipata/Kande Beach
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.
Day 27: Kande Beach
Day 28: Kande Beach/Chitimba
Day 29: Chitimba
In the evening, relax along the lake and rest up as the journey continues tomorrow.
Day 30: Chitimba/Iringa
Day 31: Iringa/Dar es Salaam
Day 32: Dar es Salaam/Zanzibar Beach Resort
Day 33: Zanzibar Beach Resort
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.
Day 34: Stone Town
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.
Day 35: Stone Town/Bagamoyo
Day 36: Bagamoyo/Arusha
Arusha sits at the foot of rugged Mt Meru, Africa's fifth highest mountain.
Day 37: Arusha/Serengeti National Park
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.
Day 38: Serengeti National Park/Ngorongoro
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.
Day 39: Ngorongoro/Arusha
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.
Day 40: Arusha/Nairobi
Not ready to go home just yet? That's ok, stay for a few extra days to explore more of Kenya and beyond.
- 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.
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 willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.
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.
Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.
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. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).
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.
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.
Duration: 40 days
Trip Type: Small Group
Activity Level: Average
Now's the time to explore Africa on your terms with this tour that's affordable for young travellers. Keen to check off eight countries as "been there" and journey across nearly half of the African continent? Well, give us 40 days and we'll take you on this epic overland adventure.
Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 07 Dec 2025
Customer Reviews
12/21/2023
Strong personal experience, well organized trip and great friendships with group
12/21/2023
Organized and experienced staff team who give you a good overview of a range of country in a safe and positive environment.
Tour Operator

G Adventures, founded in 1990 by Bruce Poon Tip, is a global adventure travel company specializing in small-group tours that emphasize authentic, sustainable, and culturally immersive experiences. Originally launched as GAP Adventures (“Great Adventure People”), the company pioneered the concept of community-driven travel by offering affordable trips that connect travelers with local communities while minimizing environmental impact. Today, G Adventures operates in more than 100 countries, offering a wide range of itineraries across themes such as active adventures, wildlife, wellness, family, and National Geographic–partnered tours, while maintaining a strong commitment to responsible tourism and social enterprise through its Planeterra Foundation.
In Business Since 1990
12/21/2023
Strong personal experience, well organized trip and great friendships with group
12/21/2023
Organized and experienced staff team who give you a good overview of a range of country in a safe and positive environment.
11/30/2023
This type of travel is very difficult with the constant moving , long Lando drives and not being able to go out of the camps most days. I would for sure recommend one of the shorter trips below 21 days but the 28/40/55 day trips I would not recommend. I would comfortably say that all of us on the longer trips were waiting for it to be over.
11/09/2023
Good value for money compared to other tour companies
11/09/2023
It has a good range of trips and for the most part, good value.
11/09/2023
Good travel company with (mostly) good CEOs and value for money trips.
08/31/2023
G Adventures takes all the stress out of travelling.
10/26/2023
It was an amazing experience and if they are up for participation camping I think it's a great way to see and explore Africa
08/24/2023
Had the time of my life, but I would tell them that tenting for such a long time and the long drives, isn't for everyone one. So they have to keep that in mind.
08/10/2023
On this trip you get to see so much of Southern and East Africa. Lots of epic scenery and animal encounters. The food our CEOs prepared was amazing, and the camping was comfortable and fun. Some long drives but it's worth it to see so much.
07/06/2023
This trip exceeded my expectations in every way. The CEOs where exceptional people, fun and helpful, the trip was by far more comfortable than anticipated and the choice of activities and locations are amazing!
07/27/2023
Everything on the ground was pretty great. The CEOs were awesome. The experience was incredible, and I felt safe and comfortable most of the time. The central office and especially the website/app leave a lot to be desired. The app straight up does not work. you'd be better off just not having one. A lot of the information on the website is outdated or just incorrect. And a lot of 'features' are not implemented correctly or non-functional. it's a shame because I've had such a wonderful time with multiple tours, but I could easily see someone I've recommended to the site being turned off by what I see as a lack of attention to detail. it's difficult to trust a company to come through for you when they're so obviously neglecting so many small things in the place where you mostly interface with them. it's very disappointing.
07/27/2023
Because things are booked for you, so you don't have to go through all the trouble of organizing and booking things by yourself.
07/20/2023
there's a lot of driving involved and camping too which isn't for everyone
07/20/2023
It was great and I really enjoyed it but it was also very hard work.
07/06/2023
I chose this rating because I genuinely enjoyed the experience.
05/11/2024
Because it was a really nice experience but I think it is quite expensive.
04/06/2024
Very happy with the whole trip. Well organized and all our CEOs were amazing. The trip was beyond my expectations.
04/06/2024
Because of the overall experience and the superb CEOs I had on my trip
03/30/2024
G Adventures is an amazing and very professional company, and I always feel in good hands when I travel with them. They also good knowledge about the best things to see.

Family trips cannot be booked online.
Please contact webjet customer service to book the trip.
Email: [email protected]