Summary of this Overland Safari
An epic African camping adventure meandering down from game-rich Kenya to picturesque Cape Town, via scenic, wildlife and beach highlights galore.
Scenic natural wonders range from the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls and the Great Rift Valley to the Sossusvlei Dunes of the Namib Desert, Fish River Canyon and Orange River. Go game viewing in the legendary Masai Mara Game Reserve and unique Etosha Park and get up close to cheetahs in Namibia. Explore Botswana, taking a leisurely river cruise on the Chobe River and canoeing into the pristine Okavango Delta to camp in the wild.
Relax on the idyllic beaches of Zanzibar Island and along the golden-sand shores of Lake Malawi, swimming and enjoying optional activities. Discover the African cities of Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, Lusaka, Windhoek, Swakopmund and other vibrant urban spots.
Encounter the colourful cultures of East and Southern Africa, visiting a Maasai Village in Kenya, walking with the Kalahari Bushman of Botswana and seeing San Bushman paintings in Namibia's Spitzkoppe.
Itinerary for this Tour
Tour Highlights
Nairobi & the Great Rift Valley in Kenya
Masai Mara National Reserve Game Viewing
Masai Village Walk & Snake Park
Optional Ngorongoro Crater & Serengeti Trip
Experience Zanzibar Islands & Dar es Salaam
Lake Malawi beaches & Lusaka in Zambia
Livingstone, Victoria Falls & adventure activities
Explore Chobe National Park & Okavango Delta
Kalahari Bushman Walk & Windhoek, Namibia
Game viewing in Namibia's Etosha Park
Spitzkoppe & Swakopmund activities
Namib Naukluft Park & Sossusvlei Sand Dunes
Look out over the immense Fish River Canyon
Orange River, Namaqualand & Western Cape
Day 1 - 3: Nairobi to Masai Mara Game Reserve – Kenya
This Kenya to Cape Town Camping Adventure sets off from Kenya's fast-paced capital of Nairobi, in safari vehicles.
Travelling southwest across the Great Rift Valley, we start with one of the most legendary safari destinations in the world - Masai Mara Game Reserve.
Our first two days are spent exploring this unforgettable East African wildlife reserve on game viewing drives in the ultimate African savannah setting. Morning and afternoon game drives reveal the magnificent mammals and other creatures that really make this quintessential 'Out of Africa' scene magical.
Masai Mara is famous for the annual Great Migration, when spectacular herds of hoofed animals cross the open plains and crocodile and hippo infested Mara and Talek rivers in search of fresh grazing. The mass migration of herbivores, including wildebeest, gazelles, zebras, impalas and hartebeest, attracts a host of predators and scavengers that come to feast on this bonanza of prey.
Mara is however an awe-inspiring wilderness to visit at any time of the year, hosting abundant wildlife and birds that can be sighted in all seasons.
Masai Mara's other claim to fame is the exceptional population of big cats found here. Look forward to spotting cheetah looking out over the grasslands from the tops of termite mounds, leopards resting languidly in treetops and lions lazing in the shade. The full Big Five complement roam the beautiful African bush in Masai Mara, of which buffalo, lion and elephant are most commonly sighted. Game drives across the wide-open grasslands also reward us with sightings of an array of other wildlife, from zebras, jackals, baboons and Masai giraffes to hyenas, bat-eared foxes, warthogs and hippos.
Camp just outside the vast Masai Mara Reserve in Kenya, getting into the laid-back rhythm of the African bush. Leaving the rolling plains dotted with thorn trees we make our way back through the Great Rift Valley to the urban jungle of Nairobi.
After exploring the beautiful Masai Mara we cross the Great Rift Valley once again returning to Nairobi for an overnight stay.
Accommodation: Masai Mara: Tented Camp
Accommodation Nairobi: Camp - Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast x 2, Lunch x 3, Dinner x 3
Travel: about 300kms (days 1 and 3), Full days (including game drives)
Day 4: Nairobi to Arusha – Tanzania
Today we drive south through Kenya, crossing into Tanzania, another of East Africa's top safari destinations. From the Namanga border post we head to bustling Arusha, arriving in this safari hub late in the afternoon.
Arusha is a pleasant town located at the foot of Mt Meru, Tanzania's second highest peak. The friendly town of Arusha marks the half-way mark between Cape Town and Cairo and serves as the gateway to Tanzania's popular Northern Safari Circuit. Explore this interesting town on foot, visiting the vibrant markets and shops in one of the oldest towns in Tanzania. Tonight we camp on the outskirts of this buzzing town, surrounded by lush plains.
Arusha is our base for exploring the Tanzania's Northern Safari Circuit, or enjoying optional activities in the area.
You can spend the next three days game viewing in the famous Serengeti National Park and the game-rich Ngorongoro Crater - an optional excursion that requires a local payment to your tour guide. If you choose not to take the trip to Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, the next few days are spent in Arusha enjoying a variety of optional activities and exploring this hilly area.
Accommodation: Snake Park - Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel: about 270kms, Full day
Option One:
Day 5 - 7: Northern Safari Circuit – Tanzania
Meals included: Breakfast x 3, Lunch x 3 & Dinner x 3
Day 5: Serengeti National Park – Tanzania
On day five we travel across the Great Rift Valley, making our way west via the small and ethnically diverse town of Mto Wa Mbo in a smaller safari vehicle designed for game viewing.
En route to the vast open plains of the legendary Serengeti, we skirt the rim of the impressive Ngorongoro Crater, driving through the Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area. From Ngorongoro we drive down to what is probably the most famous game park in the world - Serengeti National Park. This flat wilderness area is even larger than Masai Mara, our first game viewing destination on safari.
Like the Masai Mara the Serenegti is famous for the massive Wildebeest Migration that takes place between this Tanzanian game park and Mara to the north in Kenya. Covering around 14 763 km² the Serengeti Park is even larger than its Kenyan counterpart, Masai Mara. The vast savannas and grasslands stretch out to the horizon in a seemingly endless sea of open plains. The local Maasai named this expansive place Siringitu, which means 'the place where the land runs on forever'. Looking out over the endless plains teeming with game, predators and birds one is struck by the immensity and beauty of this wild continent.
We drive on to our unfenced camp, looking out for wildlife and birds as we pass through this classical African bush setting. At night we listen for the calls of hyena and the distant lion's roar coming out of the darkness settled over the untamed bush around us.
Accommodation: Bush camp - Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater – Tanzania
This morning we take a game drive through the Serengeti, travelling east back towards the Ngorongoro Crater. In the rainy season the bush is lush and green, while winter sees us driving through golden-brown, more arid landscapes.
Before arriving at the huge unflooded caldera we stop for lunch and then continue up the slopes on the outside of the crater. Our camp for the night is located some 2400 metres above sea level on the rim of Ngorongoro Crater, offering breathtaking views over this natural wonder. Keep an eye out for wild animals in the area around camp, where we stay warm in the cool night air.
The 326 km² Ngorongoro Crater, formed by volcanic action some 2,5 million years ago, is the largest intact caldera (collapsed volcano) in the world.
Accommodation: Camp - Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Day 7: Arusha, Meserani Snake Park – Tanzania
Day seven sees us driving down into the famous Ngorongoro Crater to enjoy a action-packed game drive in this World Heritage Site. Ngorongoro Crater is home to the highest concentration of predators in the world, including lions, leopards, jackals and hyenas, as well as a few cheetahs.
The natural amphitheatre of the Ngorongoro Crater hosts huge herds of zebra, antelopes (impalas, gazelles and more) and wildebeest, as well as big bull elephants.
The Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo) are all found here, along with all the main kinds of mammals. Birdlife is also prolific here, including endemic species. The crater basin incorporates a variety of habitats, from lush plains and valleys to peaks, craters and forests.
We drive up the steep walls some 600m high and back to our campsite on the rim of the crater. Here we soak of the sweeping views over this natural wonder, dismantle camp and enjoy lunch.
From the must-see Ngorongoro Crater we return to the safari hub of Arusha, within view of Mount Kilimanjaro. We camp at the Meserani Snake Park tonight, where a great collection of snakes and other reptiles can be viewed up close.
Accommodation: Snake Park - Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Travel: about 250km (days 5 and 7), Full days (including game drives)
Option Two:
Day 5 - 7: Arusha & Optional Activities / Excursions – Tanzania
If you choose to stay in Arusha you will have an array of activities to choose from over the next few days. One of the crew will stay in Arusha to help you arrange activities and excursions. Options include embarking on a full-day safari in the beautiful Lake Manyara National Park, or a half day safari in Arusha National Park. You can also take a full-day Tarangire National Park tour, or visit the Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano.
Alternatively you can head into the lively town of Arusha to shop for curios, mingle with the locals and go to the markets where colourful produce, carvings, crafts, masks and beadwork vie for your attention. Arusha also features a Cultural Heritage Centre, where you can learn about tribal cultures, see photographs, carvings and precious stones such as Tanzanite, and shop for jewellery and souvenirs.
Accommodation & Meals: Not Included*
*Please budget US$20-$25 per day for meals & accommodation.
Day 8: Arusha to Pagani River – Tanzania
Walk to a local Masai village this morning to see how this iconic East African tribe lives in rural Tanzania. Meet the tall brightly robed Masai warriors and herders, gaining some insight into their traditions and culture.
Then we continue our drive south passing through the town of Moshi on the lower slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro en route to our next camp in Pagani. When skies are clear we get a glimpse of majestic Mt Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak and the tallest freestanding mountain in the world, some 5895m high.
Pangani is a historic town that once served as a major hub for the local Swahili. Established as early as the 6th century this was a lively port for Arabic, African and colonial traders. Today Pangani is a relatively quite place for a beach holiday, boasting a welcoming tropical climate and lovely, uncrowded beaches.
We camp on the banks of the wide Pangani River, in an area of lush mangroves, grasses and coastal forests flanked by the Eastern Arc Mountain Range. The Pangani River is an important resource for Tanzanians, flowing from Kilimanjaro to form a fertile basin and feeding a hydropower plant.
Accommodation: Camp - Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel: about 350kms, Full day
Day 9: Pagani River to Dar es Salaam – Tanzania
From the calm banks of the Pangani at the floor of the Usambara and Pare Mountains we proceed southwards to Dar es Salaam, where we overnight before heading to Zanzibar Islands.
Dar es Salaam is a popular starting and ending point for travel to the nearby Zanzibar Islands, as well as for safaris to Tanzania's top game parks. This unpretentious city is no sleepy hollow, with its vibrant mix of cultures, active business centres and bustling markets. Dar es Salaam, Tanzania's largest city, offers an interesting mix of old and new - bringing together the traditional African, Arabic and Indian influences and modern western ways. The major port of Tanzania, Dar es Salaam has a long and colourful history as a trading hub, and is now the commercial centre of this East African nation.
Tonight we camp at a beach resort set on the beach near Dar es Salaam, relaxing into easy beach living on the Indian Ocean coast.
Accommodation: Beach resort - Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel: about 650kms, Full day
Day 10 - 12: Zanzibar Islands – Tanzania
On day 10 we leave the mainland of Tanzania, taking a ferry to the exotic Spice Islands - Zanzibar.
For the next few days we enjoy a beach getaway on the main idyllic tropical island of Zanzibar, where white-sand beaches are lapped by clear azure waters. You are free to fill your time as you please, selecting from a variety of great activities. Options range from walks in the lush forests and aromatic spice tours in the plantations, to dhow sailing trips to off-lying islets and historic tours of old Stone Town with its narrow cobbled streets.
While on Zanzibar Island your tour guide is available to ensure that your plans run smoothly, but you are free to do whatever you choose.
For pure beach indulgence Zanzibar boasts picturesque tropical beaches where you can spend balmy days lazing around under coconut palm trees and swimming in the turquoise-blue ocean. Head to the stunning beaches of north to enjoy excellent snorkelling and scuba diving along the coast or at the small islands just off the main Zanzibar Island. This is a beach paradise - ideal for catching some golden rays, sipping on a sunset cocktail and feasting on fresh seafood.
Zanzibar is not your typical African destination, given its long history as an important part of the spice route. Many of the great colonial explorers of the 19th century spent time in Zanzibar, from Richard Burton to David Livingstone. This beautiful island still has a strong Arabic influence, which can be seen in the architecture and culture. Visiting the mosques, churches, palaces and marketplaces on foot is the best way to discover more about Zanzibar Island, past and present.
Please Note: Standard accommodation and breakfasts are included in the Local Payment for this tour. To give you more freedom with your time and activities, the lunches and dinners are not included in Zanzibar. We usually spend a night in Stone Town and two nights on the northern coast at a beach resort.
Accommodation: 1 night Stone Town, 2 nights Northern Beaches
Meals included: Breakfast included with hotel accommodation
Travel: Ferry crossing (day 10)
Day 13: Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam – Tanzania
On day 13 you have some free time in the morning to explore Stone Town, or shop for curios and trinkets, before we take the ferry back to Dar es Salaam. Back on the continent we make our way out of bustling Dar, as locals call it, returning to the beach resort near the city.
Accommodation: Beach resort - Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Travel: Ferry crossing
Day 14: Dar es Salaam to Iringa – Tanzania
On day 14 we leave the coast and city life behind heading back into rural Tanzania. We drive through the rolling hills and woodlands of Makumi National Park en route to our next stop, Iringa.
In Makumi Park we keep our eyes peeled for forest elephants, antelopes, zebras and giraffes along the road, as well as a variety of birds.
We spend our last night in Tanzania camping on a productive family-run farm that's been owned by the same family for more than 70 years. The farm lies in the hills at about 1600m above sea level, which gives us a refreshing break from the heat of the tropical coast and African bush. Organic beef, chicken, lamb and vegetables are produced on this farm, located in an incredibly scenic part of Tanzania's Southern Highlands.
We unwind in the highlands enjoying the farmhouse's famous chocolate brownies, hot showers and creamy Amarula liqueur in the cosy bar.
Accommodation: Farm house - Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel: about 500kms, Full day
Day 15 - 16: Iringa to Chitimba Beach – Malawi
Journey further south today, traversing verdant mountain passes and passing through tea and banana tree plantations, as well as fertile fields where livestock graze.
At Songwe we cross the border into Tanzania's neighbour Malawi. This African country is fondly called the Warm Heart of Africa, because of its reputation for being welcoming and friendly.
We head straight to the scenic Lake Malawi and our next camp, situated at Chitimba Beach on the northern shores of Lake Malawi. Called Lake Nyasa in Tanzania and Mozambique, which are also located along the shores of this vast lake. Lake Malawi is the southernmost of the African Great Lakes dotting the Great Rift Valley in Eastern Africa. One of the biggest lakes in the world, Lake Malawi covers about a fifth of Malawi's total area and serves as an important source of food and income with its fishing industry.
The shores of Lake Malawi are lined with pretty golden-sand beaches and lively fishing villages where Malawians fish and trade for a living. Many of the fishing folk head out onto the lake in traditional dugout canoes, called Bwato. The lanterns of fisherman out on the lake twinkle like stars in the night, which is why the great explorer David Livingstone called it 'The Lake of Stars'.
Relax on the scenic golden beach flanked by the green Nyika mountains at Chitimba. The tropical climate is ideal for swimming in the warm, calm waters and relaxing under the banana palms and papaya trees. surrounded by the famous Livingstonia and Nyika mountains. Alternatively you can explore the village on foot, browsing the crafts market, visiting the school and meeting the locals. You can also hike up onto the Nyika Plateua where the old missionary village of Livingstonia, with its church dating back to 1894, lies high above Lake Malawi.
Please Note: The Malawi stretch of our safari is subject to changes that the crew may make in order to make the best of our time in Malawi.
Accommodation: Beach camp - Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel: about 550kms, Full day
Day 17 - 18: Kande Beach – Malawi
Spend the morning enjoying Chitimba, before we travel further south along the lovely shores of the lake to the town of Mzuzu. We pause in the north's regional capital of Mzuzu to stock up on supplies and peruse a maket or two in this pleasant town surrounded by forested mountains and farmlands.
Our next Malawian destination is Kande Beach, a lively lakeside stop with plenty of optional activities on the go. Mingle with the friendly locals, swim in Africa's third largest lake and unwind on the peaceful beaches that feel like ocean shores.
There are lots of horses at Kande, which is a super place for riding on the beaches, in the forests and to local villages, as well as venturing into the lake on horse back. There are an array of water-based activities to choose from, including kayaking, snorkelling, scuba diving, boat trips, water skiing and sailing. Freshwater Lake Malawi hosts the highest number of endemic fish species of any body of freshwater in the world, especially cichlid species.
In the evening we relax in this beautiful spot, with the option of enjoying the vibrant nightlife of Kande Beach.
Accommodation: Beach camp - Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast x 2, Lunch x 2, Dinner x 2
Travel: about 240kms, Half day
Day 19: Kande Beach to Salima – Malawi
On day 19 we drive further south, to our last stop beside Lake Malawi, Salima.
Here we overnight at a campsite along the lakeshore beach near Senga Bay, not far from Lilongwe. The beach is a broad stretch of golden sand, a lovely setting for your last day at the lake.
The afternoon is free for you to lie on the beach, take a dip in the warm lake and discover the area on foot.
Wow Factors: Lake Malawi
Accommodation: Campsite - Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel: about 320kms, Half day
Day 20: Salima to Chipata – Zambia
Leaving Lake Malawi we drive inland to Lilongwe, the largest city in Malawi.
We stop in Malawi's capital to buy some essentials in this leafy and relatively westernised city, home to a large expat community.
Then we cross into Zambia, journeying on towards the town of Chipata, located close to the eastern border. Set in a broad valley surrounded by hills the town was once called Fort Jamerson and is today a commercial and administritave centre, as the capital of Zambia's Eastern Province. If there is time we visit Chipata to see the markets, churches and mosques, en route to our next overnight camp, just outisde of town.
Accommodation: Camp - Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel: about 300kms, Full day
Day 21: Chipata to Lusaka – Zambia
Getting an early start this morning we drive southwest along the major route of the Great Eastern Road (running east from Lusaka to Chipata). The scenic drive takes us through fertile lands of farms and gentle hills, dotted with little Zambian villages and across the Luangwa River.
Arriving in fast-expanding Lusaka on the southern stretch of our East & Southern African Adventure we continue to a farm outside of the bustling city. We camp in a peaceful rural setting, where we can relax after our long day on the road.
The capital of Zambia, Lusaka is the country's most modern and cosmopolitan centre. Set high on a plateau this is the heart of the nation, where the central government is based, major commerce happens and nightlife can be experienced.
Accommodation: Eureka Camp - Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel: about 620kms, Full day
Day 22: Lusaka to Livingstone – Zambia
Driving further south we make our way to the Zambian border with Zimbabwe, where the Zambezi River forms Victoria Falls. We camp along the mighty river, near Livingstone in the Zambia.
Our camp, a short distance from Vic Falls, serves as our base for the next few adventure-filled days. Our first adventure takes us to the natural wonder of Victoria Falls to admire the largest sheet of falling water in the world. An awesome sight at any time of year, we get to see this spectacular waterfall up close, even feeling the spray from its crashing waters. The locals call it ‘Mosi au Tunya’ which means the smoke that thunders, a name Victoria Falls lives up to - roaring as it crashes into the Bakota Gorge and sends up a cloud of mist visible as far as 30 km's away. A visit to the spectacular Victoria Falls is a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Returning to our lovely camp your guide takes you through the array of adventure activities on offer, helping you to map out your next few days.
Outdoor and adventure activities include elephant safaris, horse riding, game walks, wildlife encounters, canoeing, riverboarding and sunset river cruises. Victoria Falls is renowned for its superb white water rafting, considered some of the best in the world. If you have your heights set higher then you can take the adrenalin inducing leap off the Victoria Falls Bridge, bungee jumping into the deep gorge below or do an exhilarating gorge swing. For those wanting to go higher still, there are thrilling helicopter flips and microlight flights over the mighty Vic Falls.
Please Note: As in Zanzibar, during your stay in Vic Falls only breakfasts are included to allow for felxibility with activities (half and full day), with some activities including meals. Try out the local eateries in Livingstone or enjoy a selection of reasonably priced meals (budget US$15 -$30 per meal) at the camp restaurant, whilst looking out over the Zambezi River.
Accommodation: Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Travel: about 520kms, Full day
Day 23 - 25: Livingstone – Zambia
We spend the next three days on this South East African Camping Adventure in Livingstone, Zambia, camping along the Zambezi. The scenic camp is located inside Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, incorporating the Victoria Falls and 20kms of Zambezi riverside above the falls. The camp is thus ideally located for embarking on game drives and elephant back safaris in the wildlife section of Mosi-oa-Tunya Park, home to numerous wild animals and birds. Sightings include giraffe, zebra, buffalo, Zambia’s last white rhinos, warthog and various antelope species, as well as crocodiles and hippos lurking in the river.
The final days are for having fun at your own pace, doing exactly what you choose to in this fantastic place. You have three days to sample the impressive variety of activities available in Africa's Adventure Capital.
When you've had your fill of outdoor thrills, or if you're looking for something other than adventure activities, then there are cultural and historical highlights to visit. Go to local markets to see African carvings, curios and crafts and buy some gifts and souvenirs. Cross over into Zimbabwe to visit a lively township or visit the Livingstone Museum and walk around the historic town. You could also opt to do voluntary work at a local schools project or other conservation or social upliftment programmes.
Spend your time between activities resting at our pretty camp and watching the mighty upper Zambezi River flow by, keeping an eye out for wildlife and birds. The camp overlooks the Zambezi River where elephants can be seen crossing the river, along with sightings of various monkeys, hippos and other animals.
Accommodation: Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast x 3
Day 26: Vic Falls to Kasane & Chobe River – Botswana
We depart from Livingstone after breakfast, taking the short drive to Kasane, gateway to Chobe National Park in northern Botswana.
Botswana’s premier game park, Chobe National Park covers 10566 km² of unspoiled wilderness in northeastern Botswana. This diverse game park is home to one of Africa's largest elephant populations and exceptionally high concentrations of wildlife. Chobe game park hosts lion, zebra, buffalo, giraffe and a variety of antelope species, as well as an abundance of birdlife.
We take a late afternoon Chobe River cruise looking out for hippo, large elephant herds, cape buffalo, sable and a variety of birds along the river’s edge, listening out for the cry of the African fish eagle. Cruising along the river which forms the northeastern border of Chobe Park, we pass through the fertile floodplains that host the only puku antelopes inhabiting Botswana.
Accommodation: River camp - Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel: about 80kms, Half day
Day 27: Chobe & Kasane to Gweta – Botswana
We leave Kasane near Chobe Park and make our way south, skirting the fringes of the dry Kalahari Desert and passing through Nata in northeastern Botswana.
Our next stop is Gweta, the closest town to the salt pans of the Kalahari basin. The dry pans cover what was long ago the large inland Lake Makgadikgadi, hence the name Makgadikgadi Pans. One of the largest salt flats in the world, Makgadikgadi consist of a group of pans, the largest being the Sua (or Sowa) and Nwetwe Pans. The Nxai Pan National Park lies just west of Gweta which is located in an arid area dotted with giant old baobab trees.
En route to Gweta we keep a look out for roaming elephants and buffalos migrating through this unfenced wilderness region.
Our camp is set near Gweta and the famous Baines' Baobabs, as well as the Nxai and Makgadikgadi Pans. We unwind and explore the fascinating area around our unique camp on foot, getting a look at the impressive old baobab trees growing here.
Accommodation: Lodge - Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel: about 350km, Half day
Day 28: Gweta to Maun – Botswana
Today we head west along the outskirts of the arid Kalahari Desert and salt pans en route to Maun, the gateway to the watery Okavango Delta.
We overnight in in the safari hub of Maun before our trip into the Okavango Delta. Either this afternoon or when we return to Maun after camping in the Delta, there is usually time to take an optional scenic flight over the Okavango Delta – a breathtaking experience that enables you to view the vastness of this pristine wilderness.
Accommodation: Camp - Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel: about 200 kms, Half day
Day 29: Okavango Delta – Botswana
The jewel in Botswana’s crown, the Okavango Delta is the world's largest inland delta, covering 1.6 million hectares of natural waterways and pristine wilderness. The delta, with its source in Angola, spreads out in an intricate web of channels on the flat plains of Botswana emptying into the desert.
We spend a night camping in the Okavango Delta, experiencing this unique wilderness area up close.
First we drive to a mokoro base in an open 4x4 safari vehicle, where we switch to traditional vessels to navigate by water. Knowledgeable and experienced local guides accompany you in this extensive wetland system “poling” you through the labyrinth of winding channels and lagoons in traditional dugout canoes, called mokoros.
You will also have the opportunity to explore the delta on a thrilling bush walk. Exploring the narrow channels of the delta we look out for wildlife including hippo, crocodile and an array of birds amongst the giant lily pads and tall grasses of the reed-fringed islands.
Our overnight tented camp is set on the banks of a tranquil lagoon, in an area of the watery Okavango Delta often visited by elephants. We stay in tents with twin beds and en suite bathrooms, at our basic but comfortable bush camp. At night you can hear the sounds of the African bush surrounding you for miles as you sleep under starry skies in this remote wilderness – the wildlife experience of a lifetime!
Accommodation: Camp – Twin share pre-erected tents with en-suite facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 30: Okavango Delta & Maun to Ghanzi – Botswana
On day 30 we leave the tranquil Okavango Delta and travel back through Maun as we drive southwest along the edge of the Kalahari Desert. Stopping in Maun if time allows for a scenic flight over the delta. The scenic flight gives you a birds eye view over the delta, allowing you to fully appreciate the vastness of this beautiful Botswana wilderness area. The views over this pristine wildlife haven will take your breath away! Look out for hippos, elephant and buffalo in the waterways and bush and see the watery channels meandering their way through the Delta in the intricate web of this changing wetland system.
Our next stop is at the town of Ghanzi, called the "The capital of the Kalahari". At Ghanzi, situated in the middle of nowhere, we explore the area’s arid landscapes on foot. This wide-open and flat terrain is remarkable for its beautiful sunsets and open skies, a stargazer’s paradise at night. On our guided Bushman Walk we have the opportunity to learn a bit about the nomadic Bushmen tribes that were once the only inhabitants in this desolate area.
Find out more about how the San live in harmony using resources sustainably and treading lightly on their environment, supporting this community project and the San people's way of life.
Around the campfire at night, you can experience the ancient dance rituals of the San Bushman. On special occasions this could be a healing or trance dance, and is an intense spiritual experience for both participants and visitors alike.
Accommodation: Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 31: Ghanzi to Windhoek – Namibia
In the morning we continue travelling west crossing into Namibia, where we make our way to Windhoek.
We stay in Windhoek, Namibia’s capital city, for the night and get to enjoy some nightlife after our days spent out in the untamed wilderness areas of Southern Africa. Explore the laidback city of Windhoek, located in a basin within in the Khomas Highlands of Namibia.
Discover the rich hostory of this city with its colonial German heritage and architecture. This small capital city is situated in the geographic epicentre of Namibia, nestled between the Auas and Eros Mountains.
Eat out at a local restaurant and let your hair down at the well-known 'Joes Beer House'.
Accommodation: Camp - Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 32 - 33: Etosha National Park – Namibia
Departing from Windhoek our journey takes us north to Etosha National Park, the "Great White Place" dominated by a vast saltpan. We stay in Etosha for the next two nights, camping near one of the park’s watering holes, all of which are floodlit at night offering exciting nocturnal game viewing.
We embark on a short afternoon game drive upon arrival in Etosha and spend the whole of the next day game viewing.
The 20 000 km² Etosha Park is home to thousands of wild animals and is considered one of the most important game reserves in Southern Africa. This vast game park is inhabited by around 340 bird species and over 100 mammal species, notably the endangered cheetah and black rhino, as well as black-faced impala, tsessebe, roan antelope and gemsbok. In the rainy season shallow lakes form on the pan, with the watering holes supporting Etosha’s wildlife all year-round.
Accommodation: Okaukuejo/Halai/Namatoni Camp - Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast x 2, Lunch x 2, Dinner x 2
Travel: about 450Km, Full day (including game drive)
Day 34: Etosha National Park to Otjitotongwe Cheetah Park – Namibia
We leave Etosha National Park game viewing en route, to spot some animals not seen on the previous days. Then we turn south making our way to Otjitotongwe Cheetah Park, home to Save the Cheetah Project.
The family-run cheetah park has been welcoming guests to visit its cheetahs since 1994. The private game reserve promotes awareness of the need for cheetah conservation, through education and close encounters with these graceful big cats. Our time here offers unique and unforgettable wildlife encounters with the fastest land animal on earth.
We see the hand raised cheetahs up close, gaining insight into these threatened felines and taking photographs to capture their beauty. Then we venture into the game reserve to sight some of the over twenty wild cheetahs roaming here.
Heading to our camp at the cheetah park after our game drive, there is time for a swim and some relaxing sundowners in the bush, before dinner.
Accommodation: Otjitotongwe Cheetah Park - Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel: about 250Km, Half day
Day 35: Otjitotongwe Cheetah Park to Spitzkoppe – Namibia
Next we make our way back south travelling through the eerie landscapes of the Spitzkoppe area, also called the "Matterhorn of Namibia".
The Spitzkoppe area is scattered with exposed granite formations that we explore to see the ancient rock paintings of Bushman tribes. The most impressive of these rock paintings is called “Bushman Paradise”.
The peculiar rock formations reach up to 1728m above sea level, offering spectacular views. Explore this dramatic area of Namibia, soaking up its stillness. Witness the ever changing colours of the rock formations, especially at sunrise and sunset, when they take on intense red shades.
Our Spitzkoppe Camp, located at the base of the rocky mountain, is owned and maintained by the local community. All proceeds from our stay contribute to a better future for the local community at Spitzkoppe.
Accommodation: Bush camp - Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel: about 350Km, Half day
Day 36 – 37: Spitzkoppe to Swakopmund – Namibia
We drive along some of the striking Atlantic coastline, known as the Skeleton Coast en route to Swakopmund, located between the Namib Desert and the Atlantic Ocean.
The quaint colonial town of Swakopmund is Namibia’s premier seaside resort, featuring palm-lined avenues and beachside promenades. Take a sightseeing stroll though the unique town and relax at one of the street-side cafes or get your adrenaline pumping on one of the adventure activities. There are plenty of adventure activities to choose from at Swakopmund including kayaking, quad biking, sand boarding and skydiving as well as scenic flights and guided desert walks.
There are no planned activities scheduled in Swakopmund, leaving you free to pick and choose the activities you like best.
Please Note: Only breakfasts are included in Swakopmund to allow for more felxibility with activities, especially half and full day tours (some of which provide meals). There are lovely cafes and bakeries in Swakopmund offering reasonably priced meals (budget R50-100 per meal).
Accommodation: Lodge - Dorm bed
Meals included: Breakfast x 2
Travel: about 150Km, Half day (day 36)
Day 38: Swakopmund to Sesriem – Namibia
From Swakopmund we continue our drive southwards heading into one of the oldest deserts in the world, the Namib Desert. We make our way into the Namib Naukluft Park, one of the largest game parks in Africa and Namibia’s largest conservation area, covering 50 000 km² of dunes, plains and estuarine terrain.
In the Namib Naukluft Park we visit some of the world’s highest sand dunes, reaching up to 300m, at Sossusvlei. The towering orange-red dunes at Sossusvlei are ideal for photographic opportunities, especially for sunrise or sunset desert landscape shots from the dune tops. We visit the renowned Dune 45 and have the chance to climb to the top for photographs of a spectacular sunset over the glowing desert dunes.
From the spectacular dunes and flat pans we travel deeper into the park to the Sesriem Canyon area where we explore the valleys and saltpans on foot.
Tonight we camp at the Sesriem campsite on the fringes of the national park, under starry African skies.
Accommodation: Desert camp - Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel: about 350km, Full day drive
Day 39 - 40: Sesriem to Bethanie & Fish River Canyon – Namibia
We continue south through this arid desert land scattered with quiver trees making our way to the small hamlet of Bethanie. Our overnight camp is near this historic village, counted among the oldest settlements in Namibia. Bethanie, established at a natural spring on the outskirts of the Namib Desert, boasts the oldest building in Namibia and a church dating back to 1859.
The next day we drive to the Fish River Canyon, the largest canyon in Africa and the second largest in the world. This beautiful natural wonder is around 500m deep and over 160km in length. We explore this scenic area enjoying spectacular views over the sharp “Hell’s Bend” corner of the canyon.
Accommodation: Lapa or similar and Road house - Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel: about 320 km day 39, about 280 km day 40, Half day
Day 41: Fish River Canyon to Orange River – South Africa
We cross into South Africa leaving the unforgettable deserts and vast game parks of Namibia behind.
Continuing south we drive to the Orange River, also known as the Gariep River, camping in this dramatic setting overnight. With its source in Lesotho’s Drakensberg Mountains the Orange River, South Africa’s longest river, almost traverses the continent.
We camp on the banks of the Orange River on day two of this Southern African Safari, enjoying a marvellous African sunset and listening to the birds. Here you have the option of hiking to the viewpoint above the campsite and taking a canoe trip on the Orange River, which is safe for swimming!
The camp is remote but not too basic, with facilties including hot showers, flush toilets and grass covered camping sites. Unwind at the camp's bar and soak up the peaceful river setting under a blanket of bright stars.
Accommodation: Camp - Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel: about 200km, Half day
Day 42: Orange River to Cedeberg Region – South Africa
Leaving the dramatic Orange River area we proceed south into the Namaqualand region of South Africa. Namaqualand is best known for its prolific display of blooming wildflowers in spring (best seen between August and October).
We overnight at a picturesque campsite near the Olifants River and enjoy the opportunity to sample some of the fine wines of the Western Cape Province of South Africa.
Accommodation: Camp - Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Travel: about 400km, Full day
Day 43: Cedeberg Region to Cape Town – South Africa
We travel south passing the rich fruit growing area of Citrusdal and admire the spectacular views as we meander down the Picketberg Pass towards Cape Town.
Lastly we reach the beautiful city of Cape Town, our final stop on this Kenya to Cape Town Camping Safari.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Travel: about 270km, Half day
We recommend that you arrange to spend a few post-tour days in the cosmopolitan city of Cape Town. One of the most beautiful cities in the world, Cape Town has something for everyone, from outdoor activities and wineland tours to world-class shopping and a lively nightlife.
Tour Transport
Transport on this tour is in a 24-seater, custom-built safari truck. The self-contained truck is fitted with onboard tables, individual lockers (70-litre) and a freezer, as well as safety features. The safari truck also features plug sockets, a library and an i-pod jack.
Tour Accommodation:
Accommodation is in two-person dome tents fitted with fly sheets, sewn-in ground sheets, insect screens and foam camping mattresses. Campsites used feature standard bathroom and showering facilities, electricity points and sometimes a shop, bar and swimming pool.
On Zanzibar Island accommodation is in basic travel-class hotels and in the Okavango Delta accommodation is in pre-erected twin share tents with en-suite facilities.
Meals on this Tour
The group prepares the included meals in camp and help with preparation is invited. Most dietary requirements can be catered for on the road, upon request at the time of booking.
Game Park Visits
Some of our National Park visits and game viewing drives are conducted using local services, to ensure the best quality game driving and to comply with local authority rulings. Using local African guides and service providers also adds to our safari experience and allows us to contribute to the local communities. These local services are included in the Local Payment of the tour.