Trips & Tours: Nairobi Overland Safari

Leaving Johannesburg early, we begin our trek north. Stopping en-route to do some last minute shopping, we head for our rustic bush camp set on a private game reserve in the Limpopo Valley. We arrive early and familiarise ourselves with the vehicle and equipment, before camping the night. Enjoy a traditional “braai”.

After a morning walk, we travel the short distance to the border where we complete formalities and then travel directly to the Great Zimbabwe Ruins. The afternoon is spent exploring this massive complex, and delving into the mysteries surrounding their origin. Tonight we enjoy a night of relative comfort, and a catered meal (own expense).

A short drive today, we pass through the wide streets of Bulawayo, and on to our camp nestled amongst the precariously balanced boulders of Matobo. This afternoon we enjoy an open vehicle drive into the Matobo National Park where we will track Rhino and other animals on foot.

Arising early, we stretch our legs with a climb on one of the “koppies” surrounding our camp before packing up and moving on to Hwange. This afternoon we enjoy an extensive drive in search of the animals for which Hwange is so well known. Tonight we drift off to sleep to the sounds of the wild at our bush camp in the Hwange area.

Leaving our bush-camp, we head for the amazing spectacle of Victoria Falls, and the surrounding tourist village. We spend two nights here in comfort, at the Drifters Victoria Falls Inn. . There are numerous activities to pursue, such as bungi jumping, white-water rafting and aircraft flips (own expense). Clients will have leisure time to explore the town. One evening meal will be at a local restaurant (own expense),the other will be a "braai" with traditional dancers at the pool. Both Lunches are own expense.

See day 05

An early start, we have a last view of the falls whilst crossing the historic Livingstone Bridge over the Zambezi Gorge into Zambia. Our journey takes us across southern Zambia to the Kafue River where we set up camp. Relax by the pool and enjoy a hot shower.

After a river safety and procedure briefing we begin our canoeing adventure. These days are a highlight of the tour, with excellent bird and game viewing opportunities. Hippo and other big game may be encountered at close range. This section does involve a certain amount of effort, and at night we camp wild on islands. We end the paddle at the Chongwe River, and camp the last night on the mainland.

As day 08.

The next day we conduct a short game walk before transferring back to Kafue camp by power boat, for a hot shower and a catered meal (own expense). Camp the night.

We continue north via the capital city, Lusaka, where we stock up on provisions and enjoy an own expense lunch, before moving along the Great East Road to our overnight camp. We will cover as much distance today as possible.

Travel on to camp on the banks of the Luangwa River where we overnight for two nights just outside the Luangwa National Park. We enter the southern park for some spectacular game viewing with excellent opportunities for Leopard sightings. Camp both nights. (Optional night drive, own expense)

Continue game viewing in the park.

Today we enter Malawi, and after replenishing stocks and spending some time at the curio stalls in Lilongwe, we continue down to the lake where we spend two nights literally camping on the beach. The days are spent simply relaxing and soaking up the sun, or for the more energetic, the crystal clear waters offer excellent snorkelling and lovely beach walks.

As day 14.

Following the winding road along the lakeshore, we continue north and again camp the night on the beach, enjoying Lake Malawi, one of Africa's jewels.

Entering Tanzania, we begin our journey across this vast country. Tonight we will camp in the remote village of Mikumi.

We arrive in Dar Es Salaam, the historic port of Tanzania, around noon. We will spend some time in this bustling city before moving to the North Coast where we will camp the night on the beach.

This morning we head directly to the harbour where we embark on a ferry ride across to the spice island, Zanzibar. Exploring the island thoroughly, we spend time at the remote villages and sandy beaches of the north, and enjoying the mystique and history of the Stone Town. Visit the slave pits and participate in a spice tour, the food and fruit market is not to be missed. Sample the local cuisine one night (own expense).

See day 19.

See day 19.

See day 19.

Leaving the island behind, we board the ferry for our journey back to the mainland. We camp the night north of Dar Es Salaam at a small resort.

Moving inland we head for Arusha where we spend two nights camping in this bustling town.

We enjoy a full day of curio shopping and exploring the numerous markets, etc. At this stage it is possible to view Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest point in Africa, if the clouds oblige.

Travelling from Arusha to Serengeti we are bound to witness the impressive Masai herdsmen, herding their cattle amongst the game. Most of the day is a game drive with exceptional game viewing potential, and we arrive at the Seronera camp in the late afternoon to camp the night.