Great African Trek | 57 Days Nairobi to Cape Town

DAY 1: Nairobi (No Meals)

KENYA

Upon entering this beautiful east African country, you may be greeted with the words of “jambo” (hello) or “hakuna matata” (no problem) by the friendly locals. With a population of nearly 48 million and land area of more than 580 000 sq km Kenya is home to an abundance of animals and colourful tribes people, making it the perfect getaway for a once in a lifetime safari. Tonight guests stay in dorm rooms at the Kenya Comfort Hotel (or similar) with shared ablution facilities.

DAY 2: Nairobi to Masai Mara (Breakfast/ Lunch / Dinner)

Leaving the hustle and bustle of Nairobi we climb the escarpment to our first stop, a viewpoint overlooking a section of the spectacular Great Rift Valley.  Descending into the Rift Valley, we enter Masai land where these habitual pastoralists are often seen tending their cattle from the side of the road.  We pass through the town of Narok, and continue our drive possibly getting a glimpse of some wildlife along the way. We arrive at our tented campsite, Mara Springs Safari Camp with shared ablution facilities (or similar), where we will stay tonight and tomorrow night.

DAY 3: Masai Mara (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

We depart shortly after sunrise on our game drive into the Masai Mara Reserve. The Masai Mara is well known as one of East Africa’s best National Reserves and is home to a wide variety of wildlife species. Most famous for the Annual Migration, that consists of the impressive herds of over 1 million wildebeest, zebra and Thomson’s gazelle that cross over from the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania; the Masai Mara is most popular between July and October when these vast herds feast on the fresh grazing here. Following these herbivores are Africa’s predators that are often seen at a kill during this period. We game drive through a section of the park in search of the ‘Big 5’- elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion & leopard; along with the many other species of animals, reptiles and birds who make call this wilderness home.

After our game drive, we have the option to visit one of the nearby Masai Manyatta’s – this is a traditional hamlet where the Masai still live in their traditional way. This evening we sit around the camp fire, and watch the sun set over this “Garden of Eden”.

DAY 4: Masai Mara to Eldoret (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

Leaving the Masai Mara early, we head out of Masai Land pass through the scenic tea plantations of Kericho before descending the Rift Valley Plateau, on our way to Eldoret. Tonight we camp at Greenwoods Resort and Camp (or similar) with shared ablution facilities.

UGANDA

The “Pearl of Africa’ as it is referred to by its people, is home to some of Africa’s major attractions. This country contains four of Africa’s seven great lakes, including Lake Victoria which is the second largest body of fresh water in the world. Lake Bunyonyi is one of these spectacular lakes with its mythical landscapes and hidden bays. The source of the Nile at Jinja allows you the opportunity to tame the mighty waters with some of the world’s best white water rafting. And to top it all, this breath-taking country has the largest population of primates anywhere in Africa.

DAY 5: Eldoret to Kampala (Uganda) (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

This morning, we cross the border into Uganda where we overnight it the capital city, Kampala.  Uganda is a small country of striking physical beauty.  Its landscapes vary from the fertile green areas around the northern shores of Lake Victoria to the snow-capped Ruwenzori Mountains in the west and the semi-desert region in the north.  The political instability that has haunted Uganda in the past has actually had the positive effect of leaving the country free of the over commercialism so common in other parts of Africa.  Tonight we camp at the Red Chilli Hideaway (or similar) with shared ablution facilities.

DAYS 6 - 7: Kampala to Lake Bunyoni (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

After an early morning departure from Kampala we drive west into the depths of Uganda to our base at the tranquil Lake Bunyoni.  

Lake Bunyoni, the deepest Crater Lake in Africa and home to a large and varied number of beautiful birds, is the base from which the optional Gorilla trek takes place. Dependant on where trekking permits are available, we trek in the Magahinga or Bwindi National Parks in Uganda, the Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, or the Ruhengeri National Park in Rwanda.

The prices of trekking permits fluctuate and may change without prior notice – currently they are priced from US$825, transport ranges from U$53- U$120 depending on the number of clients trekking. For the next 2 days we will be camping at Bunyonyi Overland Resort (or similar) with shared ablution facilities.

Trekking Procedures: The mountain gorilla (Gorilla Berengei), of which there are still only about 700 remaining, are one of our closest living relatives.  A visit to these gentle giants in their natural environment is a unique and wonderful experience - one you’ll never forget.  The park rangers monitor the gorillas on a daily basis and have a fairly good idea of where they are.  However, they are free roaming animals, and their sighting cannot be guaranteed. As the gorillas share much of our DNA, anyone with even the slightest cold or transferable illness will not be permitted to trek.  Trekking is also only open to people over 16 years old.

Due to the restrictions on the daily numbers of visitors to these incredible animals, we depart from our base in Bunyoni in small groups over the next fewdays, depending on the group size.  We wind our way through arguably some of the most picturesque scenery in Africa en-route to the National Park. Your rangers will lead you through the cultivated lands and then into the dense rain forest and on to a gorilla family. Trekking can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 8 hours (not including transfer time) and it can be quite strenuous, so a reasonable level of fitness is required.  To ensure the gorillas do not get too used to the presence of humans and because they share many of our genes (and therefore able to catch our diseases), the maximum time permitted to spend with them is 1 hour.  You will have plenty of time to watch their activity and to take photographs.  The rangers will be able to provide you with a background to the family you are visiting.  Once your hour is up, you trek back out of the rain forest to your meeting point where you will be transferred back.

You needn’t feel like you’re exploiting these animals.  The ever-growing number of tourists trekking them each day play a vital role in their survival.  For years they have been ruthlessly hunted for their hands and heads, which have been sold as ashtrays and lampshades!  In addition, large numbers have been killed whilst trying to stop poachers stealing the babies for sale to zoos, where they have never lived long.  100% of the gorilla permit cost is used to by the parks authorities to finance patrols that are instrumental in protecting the gorillas from poachers and their lethal snares and on promoting these wonderful animals.

DAY 8-9: Lake Bunyoni to Queen Elizabeth National Park Area (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

After marvelling at the experience of our gorilla encounters and enjoying the peaceful Lake Bunyoni, we drive off to Queen Elizabeth National Park.  We enter Queen Elizabeth National Park on day 9 and we spend a full day game driving, as this reserve is known for its herds of elephant.  There is also an opportunity for you to take a cruise on the Kazinga channel that connects Lakes Edward and George.  We will camp outside of the Queen Elizabeth National park at the Forest Hog Camp (or similar) with shared ablution facilities.

DAY 10: Queen Elizabeth National Park to Kampala (Breakfast/ Lunch)

We cross the Equator for the second time and stop for the classic “one foot in each hemisphere” photo opportunity.  We overnight in Kampala and have the opportunity to sample its night life!  Tonight campers will camp at the Red Chilli Hideaway (or similar) with shared ablution facilities.

DAY 11: Kampala to Jinja (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

Today we have the option of visiting the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary or heading to Jinja for a selection of adventure activities including white water rafting at the source of the White Nile, quad biking or visiting a volunteer and community project.  Spend the afternoon relaxing on the banks of the river, or ticking off the wide variety of water birds in this area.  Tonight we camp at Adrift Uganda (or similar) with shared ablution facilities.

DAY 12: Jinja to Nakuru (Kenya) (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

Departing early, we head back to Kenya, stopping for lunch and supplies en route.  We overnight outside Nakuru. Nakuru is Kenya’s 4^th largest town and capital of the Rift Valley Province and lies adjacent to the small but wildlife rich Lake Nakuru National Park.  Tonight and tomorrow night we will be camping at Punda Milias Tented Camp (or similar) with shared ablution facilities.

DAY 13:  Lake Nakuru National Park (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

This morning we begin our exploration of the Lake Nakuru National Park. The park was established as a sanctuary for black and white rhino, which are often seen.  

We spend the day searching for these pre-historic looking beasts as well as the elusive leopard, encountering buffalo, giraffe, various antelope and the occasional hippo along the way.  After our game drive, we head to our campsite, arriving in the late afternoon.

DAY 14: Lake Nakuru to Lake Naivasha (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

Lake Naivasha, is home to a multitude of bird life, the most magnificent being the African Fish Eagle with his regal cry.  At 1880 m, this is the highest of the Rift Valley lakes.  We spend the day enjoying optional excursions like Elsamere (former home to Joy & George Adamson of Born Free fame), a boat ride to the Crescent Island Game Sanctuary or a bike ride around Hell’s Gate National Park.  Tonight we camp at Fish Eagle Camp (or similar) with shared ablution facilties.

Optional Activity: Elsamere

Optional Activity: Boat ride to Crescent Island Game Sanctuary

Optional Activity: Bike ride around Hell’s Gate National Park

DAY 15: Lake Naivasha to Nairobi (Breakfast)

After breakfast, we head back to Nairobi usually arriving by late morning, or early afternoon.  Tonight we stay at the Kenya Comfort Hotel (or similar). We will stay in dorm rooms with shared ablution facilities.

TANZANIA

Tanzania’s natural environment and geographical features have made it one of the best tourist destinations in Africa. Being the biggest country in east Africa, Tanzania has heaps to offer her visitors, including 13 game reserves and national parks. Tanzania also forms part of the world’s largest animal’s movements, the great migration. Inland are the vast Serengeti National Park and the animal-packed Ngorongoro Conservation area, and thousands of people every year fulfil their lifetime achievement of climbing to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, which is the highest mountain in Africa. On the coast, Zanzibar is exotic, intriguing and steeped in the unique Swahili culture.

DAY 16: Nairobi to Karatu (Tanzania) (Breakfast/Lunch / Dinner)

This morning we head out of busy Nairobi and travel south crossing the border into Tanzania at Namanga.  Tonight, we camp at a campsite called Kudu camp with shared ablution facilities (or similar) before heading out on our excursions to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater tomorrow.  

DAY17- 18: Karatu to Serengeti National Park (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

This morning we depart early in the morning, and travel through the Ngorongoro Conservation area to the Serengeti National Park and enjoy an afternoon game drive. We cross the vast plains as we game drive through the southern and central areas in the park. Tonight, we stay in twin-share rooms at the Golden Safari with en-suite bathroom facilities (or similar) surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness.

DAY 19: Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Crater to Arusha (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

In the morning, we head off for another game drive and explore the landscape in search of the resident game. With some luck, we may see some of Africa’s ‘Big 5’! Following our morning drive, we retrace our journey back across the plains and along the lush Crater. Ngorongoro Conservation area and head into the wildlife rich Ngorongoro Crater. The Ngorongoro Crater is the largest unbroken, unflooded caldera in the world. Comprising of open savannahs, acacia forests and both soda and fresh water lakes, the Ngorongoro Crater is truly a miniature ‘Garden of Eden’. This World Heritage Site boasts some of the best game viewing in Africa – including the elusive Black Rhino. Arriving back at the rim of the crater we re-join our truck to head back to Arusha, where we spend the evening musing over our thrilling wildlife experience.  Tonight we will stay in twin-share rooms at the Outpost Hotel (or similar) with en-suite bathroom facilities.

DAY 20: Arusha to Lushoto (Breakfast / Lunch)

We head to Arusha this morning to stock up on supplies before continuing on towards Dar es Salaam. On the way we drive through the town of Moshi situated at the magnificent Mount Kilimanjaro – Africa’s highest mountain.  Moshi is the base for Mount Kilimanjaro climbing expeditions, and weather permitting; we may even catch a glimpse of this magical mountain’s snowy summit - a photo opportunity not to be missed!  Tonight we camp at the Lawns Hotel (or similar) with shared ablution facilities.

DAY 21: Lushoto to Dar es Salaam (Breakfast / Lunch)

Today we continue on to Dar es Salaam.  Travelling through lush scenery and palm trees, we near the warm Indian Ocean.  Today’s drive time is extended due to the heavier amount of traffic heading in to the city, but the sights and sounds of Dar’s vibrant outer suburbs are sure to keep you entertained. Look out for the colourful shop-fronts with their sometimes humorous ‘catch phrases’. On arrival in Dar es Salaam we make our way to our lovely seaside campsite and prepare for our departure to Zanzibar the next morning. We will camp at Kipepeo Beach Village (or similar) with shared ablution facilities.

DAY 22 & 23: Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar (Breakfast)

A ferry from Dar es Salaam takes us to the "Spice Island,” where we spend the next 3 nights.  Zanzibar is steeped in history and was one of the major starting points for most East African explorers in their quest for new lands.

History aside, Zanzibar offers a wealth of experiences for the visitor.  Today the quiet streets of the old Stone Town still retain their Arabic influence, from the Medina-like shops to the palaces of the Sultans, who founded their vast empires on the spoils of the slave and ivory trade.  The island is famous for its spices and an excursion around a spice plantation is always a fascinating experience.  Other options include a trip to the beautiful beaches and giant tortoises of Prison Island, a full day scuba dive in Nungwe or a fishing trip in a traditional dhow.  Mopeds are available for hire if you’d like to explore the more remote areas of the island. These two nights we stay in twin-share rooms at Amaan Hotel (or similar) with en-suite bathroom facilities.

PLEASE NOTE:  Meals are for your own account whilst on Zanzibar, as it is our experience that passengers prefer to explore the island on their own, and in accordance with their own budget.  The Trip Leader joins you and will arrange your activities, while meals can be enjoyed from a wide selection of restaurants. Zanzibar is a seafood lover’s paradise.  Numerous restaurants offer a great variety of the freshest catch from the ocean - crayfish being a popular speciality.  Alternatively, mingle with the locals for dinner at the Forodhani Gardens seafront market, where delicious, inexpensive seafood is on offer. There are also a wide variety of optional excursions on offer.

DAYS 24: Zanzibar (Breakfast)

Today we travel back to the main town & tonight we stay in twin-share rooms at Swahili House (or similar) with en-suite bathroom facilities.

DAY 25: Zanzibar to Mikumi (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

This morning we leave Dar es Salaam and head south.  We pass through the Mikumi National Park where it is possible to view a range of wildlife from the roadside, totally impervious to the passing traffic.  This is where we spend the night camping at Tan-Swiss Lodge (or similar) with shared ablution facilities.

DAY 26: Mikumi to Iringa (Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)

From Mikumi we travel towards Iringa where we spend the night camping in a beautiful rustic campsite called Old Farmhouse (or similar) with shared ablution facilities.

DAY 27: Iringa to Mbeya (Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)

From Iringa we travel to the last Tanzanian town where we overnight, Mbeya.  Tonight we will camp at the Utengule Coffee Lodge (or similar) with shared ablution facilities.

MALAWI

A variety of attractions can be found in this exquisite country such as, forest, mountains and many a rural village, but there is one major attraction – Lake Malawi. There are many small rustic resorts along this fresh water lake where you can kick back on the sand, and enjoy the perfect sunset over this lake. Malawi will offer you the perfect sub-tropical climate, allowing you ample time to soak up the sun and work on that tan. Lilongwe is the largest city in Malawi, as well as the capital city. Malawi plays host to just over 12 million people, with English and Chichewa being the main languages.

Lake Malawi

Most your time in Malawi will be spent enjoying the white beaches and warm waters of Lake Malawi. Lake Malawi is also known as “the lake of stars”, offering an abundance of water activities. With the staggering amount of 500 species of fish, this lake makes for an excellent spot for fresh water diving after meeting and greeting all the welcoming locals.

DAYS 28- 30: Mbeya to Lake Malawi (Malawi) (Breakfast)

Winding our way through the beauty of the Tukuyu tea and banana plantations, we head towards Malawi entering the ‘Warm Heart of Africa’ through the border post at Songwe.  

Malawi is a landlocked country with 20% of its total area made up of beautiful Lake Malawi.  We travel the length of the western side of the lake, stopping off at various bays and inlets over the next 3 days.

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

The first night we will camp at Chitimba Camp with shared ablution facilities (or similar) and the second and third night we will be camping at Kande Beach Lodge with shared ablution facilities (or similar). Optional activities vary; however, we do recommend that you do the village tour.

DAY 31:  Lake Malawi to Luangwa National Park (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

An early start takes us the South Luangwa National Park. This breath-taking park is situated on the Luangwa River in the Eastern part of Zambia, and it is the southernmost of three national parks in this region. South Luangwa was founded in 1938 as a game reserve, 1972 was the year it was declared as a national park, and today it covers over 9000 kilometres squared. Animals such as Giraffe, buffalo and Elephants can be found in abundance. The Luangwa river is home to many a hippo and croc.   Tonight we camp at the Croc Valley campsite (or similar) with shared ablution facilities.

DAY 32: Luangwa National Park to Petauke (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

Today we depart this amazing National Park and make our way down south. As we drive, we pass through a few of the villages and towns of Zambia along the way. Prosperous during the copper boom in the 60’s, Zambia was able to build infrastructure at the main mining and farming communities. After the fall of the copper industry, the country was left virtually bankrupt and existing infrastructure was left to fall to ruin. Due to foreign investment and a rise in the mining industry, Zambia is today once again starting to prosper.  Tonight we camp at Chimwende Camp with shared ablution facilities (or similar).

DAY 33: Petauke to Lusaka (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

Heading further south, we journey through the southern Zambian towns mostly supporting local agriculture and farming on our way to Livingstone. The Victoria Falls or Mosi-oa-Tunya (the Smoke that Thunders) is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and it’s not difficult to see why.  At 1700 m wide and around 100 m high, this is the world's largest sheet of falling water and a memorable sight on any African Safari. Tonight we camp at Eureka Campsite (or similar) with shared ablution facilities.

ZIMBABWE

This landlocked country is situated in the southern part of Africa, between the mighty Zambezi and Limpopo Rivers. The word Zimbabwe is believed to have two meanings, 1) it is believed the word Zimbabwe is derived from dzimba-dza-mabwe, which means “large house of stone” in the Shona (Karanga Dialect) language. 2) It is also believed to be derived from the word dzimba-hwe which means venerated houses in the Zezuru dialect of Shona.

DAY 34: Lusaka to Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) (Breakfast)

We leave Zambia and cross the border into Zimbabwe. Once we’ve completed the border formalities, we continue to the town of Victoria Falls. Named after the famous World Heritage site and Water Falls, the town of Victoria Falls is situated on the Zambezi River and surrounded by the Victoria Falls National Park. Entry to Victoria Falls National Park is included in your trip. Our lodging is conveniently situated in the centre of town, and within walking distance of the adventure booking agents, restaurants and shops. For the next few nights we will be camping at Shearwater Lodge (or similar) with shared ablution facilities.

DAYS 35 - 37: Victoria Falls (Breakfast)

The next 2 days are spent relaxing or participating in a myriad of Optional Excursions.  Some of our fellow passengers will leave us in Vic Falls, to be replaced by new passengers joining us for the next leg of our trek.

Optional Activities: Adrenalin junkies can bungee from the Victoria Falls Bridge connecting Zimbabwe and Zambia or abseil down the Batoka Gorge - neither activity is for the faint hearted!  All year round, flights in fixed wing, micro light and ultra-light aircraft or helicopters provide an aerial perspective over this magnificent World Heritage Site.  White water rafting on the Zambezi is world class.  Beside the excitement of the Grade 5 rapids, there are the "floats," where there is time to admire the scenic cliffs and the occasional wildlife on the riverbanks.

DAY 38: Victoria Falls to Kasane (Botswana) (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

After breakfast, we cross the border into Botswana and head to Kasane. You can partake in the boat cruise on the Chobe River. Tonight we stay at Thebe River Resort (or similar) where we will camp with shared ablution facilities.

DAY 39: Kasane to Nata Region (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

We leave this beautiful part of Botswana behind us this morning.  Our drive will take us through a very unpopulated landscape where the donkeys roam freely.  From Botswana, we head to the lush campsite called Elephant Sands (or similar) with shared ablution facilities.

DAY 40: Kasane to Maun (Breakfast / Lunch)

Maun is the starting point for travel into the Delta and it is from here that we set off to explore the Okavango Delta. Your trip leader will brief you fully on what is needed, and what to expect prior to your trip into the Delta. Tonight and tomorrow night we will be camping at Sitatunga (or similar) with shared ablution facilities.

DAY 41: Maun to Okavango Delta (Breakfast / Lunch)

Here we have the included excursion into the Delta.  From Maun we drive north for a couple of hours to reach the mokoro poler’s station.  The Delta region is studded with many local villages where many families live in a traditional way. Some of the villages are very remote and can only be reached by the traditional mode of transport – the Mokoro. Mokoros are dugout canoes manoeuvred through the waterways by local guides who “pole” them through the reeds. At the Mokoro station, we meet our ‘Polers’ and pack our supplies before heading out into the waterways. After a couple of hours along the waterways, we arrive in the heart of the Okavango. 

DAY 42: Okavango Delta to Ghanzi (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

Today we head towards the small village of Ghanzi which will be our last night in Botswana. Ghanzi is home to the San / Bushman and you can learn more about them by partaking in the Bushman experience offered by the campsite.  Tonight we camp at Tautona (or similar) with shared ablution facilities.

NAMIBIA

This sandy yet spectacular country gained its independence from South Africa in the year of 1990 and its largest city, also the capital city is Windhoek. This is a country of compelling beauty and wide horizons dominated by the brooding and desolate Namib Desert, which has the highest sand dunes in the world.

Day 43: Ghanzi to Windhoek (Namibia) (Breakfast)

Today’s drive will take us through small rural towns and scenic landscapes. Nestled between the hills, Windhoek is a rather small capital city but has many places of historical interest. This afternoon is spent at your leisure with time to visit the local museum or haggling at the street side markets. There are also many shops for those in need of a bit of retail therapy.  Tonight we will stay in twin-share rooms at Avani Hotel (or similar) with en-suite bathroom facilities.

DAY 44: Windhoek to Etosha National Park (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

Today we make our way across the park, keeping a look out for the many different mammals, reptiles, birds and insects in the various regions. As the vegetation types change, so does the animal and bird life that relies on it, and so different sections of the Park offer a variety of different game options. After a full day of game viewing, followed by a relaxing evening in this interesting bar.  For the next three nights we camp at Etosha Village (or similar) with shared ablution facilities.

DAY 45 - 46: Etosha National Park Area (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

Today’s drive takes us further south through the Namibian countryside to our campsite, located in the vicinity of Etosha National Park.

DAY 47: Etosha National Park area to Brandberg (UIS) (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

Today we head down south to the area of the Brandberg. All depending on the time of arrival we will have the opportunity to explore the area.  Tonight we camp at Brandberg Rest Camp (or similar) with shared ablution facilities.

DAY 48: Brandberg (UIS) to Swakopmund (Breakfast)

Today we head for Swakopmund, via Spitzkoppe.  Founded by the Germans in 1892, their colonial influence is still evident today.  Swakopmund has a selection of excellent coffee shops, restaurants & bars as well as many arts and crafts shops selling Namibian curios.  There are fine beaches to walk along as well as a great museum, aquarium and galleries to visit.  

Alternatively, the lovely beach and promenade make for a great relaxing walk – though bathing in the ocean waters may be somewhat chilly! Tonight and tomorrow night we stay in dorm rooms at Amanpuri Lodge (or similar) with shared ablution facilities.

DAY 49: Swakopmund (Breakfast)

The next day can be spent relaxing or participating in a myriad of Optional Excursions.  

Optional Activities: Skydiving, quad biking, sand boarding, scenic desert flights, dolphin cruises, fishing trips, golf, horse riding and more. An activity briefing will be held on arrival in Swakopmund.

DAYS 50 - 51: Swakopmund to Sesriem (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

Leaving Swakopmund, we head south to the industrial Walvis Bay before turning inland and toward the desert.  Continuing our journey, we enter the Namib-Naukluft Park in one of the oldest deserts in the world.  We base ourselves at Sesriem, a great place to experience the Namib and its many moods.  A short distance away is Sossusvlei, surrounded by a dramatic sea of sand dunes reputed to be the highest in the world.  Magnificent views of the desert can be seen from the top of the dunes, some over 300 m high.  We spend the afternoon exploring this amazing area.  Tonight and tomorrow night we camp at Oasis Camp (or similar) with shared ablution facilities.

DAY 52: Sesriem to Fish River Canyon (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

Heading out early, we see the sunrise over this beautiful area and we leave the serenity of the dunes to head south to the Fish River Canyon.  At 161 km long, 27 km wide and about 550 m deep, it’s the second largest canyon in the world.  The outer canyon was formed by tectonic activity, while the erosion of the Fish River formed the inner canyon.  A road follows the eastern rim, giving us access to several viewing points from where we can take in the spectacular vistas.  Tonight we camp at Canyon Roadhouse (or similar) with shared ablution facilities.

DAY 53: Fish River Canyon to Gariep River (South Africa) (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

This morning we continue south, where, after a short drive, we reach the Gariep River - the natural land border between Namibia and South Africa.  We camp at a beautiful campsite, on the South African bank of the river.

DAY 54: Orange River to Cederberg (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

An early morning start see us travel south through the Richtersveld and the mining town of Springbok, before reaching the region known as Namaqualand, well known for its prolific display of Namaqua wildflowers that occur each spring.  We spend tonight in a picturesque campsite, Highlanders with shared ablution facilities (or similar) surrounded by local wine farms. Tonight, is our last night under the stars camping!

DAY 55 - 56: Cederberg to Cape Town (Breakfast)

We leave the scenic Cederberg area and travel south towards Cape Town.  We travel through the rich fruit growing area of Citrusdal before crossing the Piekenierskloof Pass to the Cape’s wine growing regions.  Our first sighting of the Mother’s City Table Mountain across Table Bay means we’ve reached our final destination. Before we finish today we take in a Cape Point Tour. These two nights’ accommodation is in dorm rooms at Never@Home (or similar) with shared ablution facilities.

Cape Area

Starting in the mother city, Cape Town has much to offer, such as the flat-topped Table Mountain, which is awesome for hiking and providing you with an aerial view of Cape Town. Then there is the pulse of the city – Long Street, which will provide you with all the food and entertainment needed on holiday. If that does not fulfil your holiday needs, the Cape area can provide you with a full day of education, sightseeing, breathe taking views and wine when partaking in a Winelands tour. A saying that will forever stick by us Capetonians – You don’t need a holiday, you need Cape Town.

DAY 57: Cape Town (No Meals)

This morning we exchange addresses and part ways, having just experienced a trip of a lifetime!

There are a wide range of activities available in Cape Town and the surrounding areas, including day trips, short tours and longer tours travelling up the picturesque coast of South Africa. We suggest you extend your stay by a few days to participate in some of the exciting activities available here.  

PLEASE NOTE:

This itinerary should be used as a guide only and may vary from day to day depending on road & weather conditions, political situations and group decisions.

All prices are subject to change.

Due to Tourism Laws in some of the countries we visit, there may be a truck and crew change during the trip.

Your arrival transfer is included in your trip price. Should you choose not to make use of this, or in the event that Africa Travel Co was not updated with your arrival details, no refund will be paid for services not used.

Lodging will be at mentioned accommodation or similar accommodation.

Please ensure you’ve received a copy of our pre-departure information document with information on what to expect on this overland safari.

The Gorilla Trek is optional and needs to be booked well in advance.  For booking purposes, please notify our office as soon as possible should you choose not to trek the Mountain Gorillas.

On this trip where we generally stay you will have the option to upgrade into either tented or hard top accommodation.

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED?