Group trip through Africa - Camping or Lodge Safari

On leaving Cape Town, we make one last stop to take a look back at Table Mountain from the other side of Table Bay. No road trip is complete without a stop at a traditional "padstal," these small farm stalls lining the back roads of South Africa offering a variety of homemade delicacies and baked goods. The Cedarberg region not only offers spectacular mountains and orange farms but is also home to the rooibos bush. Indigenous to the slopes of the Cedarberg, this herbal drink has an international reputation as a healthy and refreshing alternative to regular tea. A dinner at our overnight accommodation gives us the opportunity to get to know each other while enjoying South African hospitality.

Namaqualand offers us our first experience with the desert views that will accompany us in the coming days. We continue our journey north and travel after a short stop for supplies in Springbok to our camp on the banks of the Oranje. If you're lucky enough to travel in the spring months (July to September), you might encounter the wildflowers that have made this region famous. Regardless of the season, however, the peculiar desert views provide a unique backdrop for the journey of this day.

While the Orange River was named after the Dutch royal house, it has recently been referred to again by its original name Gariep, which simply means "river" in the indigenous KhoeKhoe language. The best way to experience the river is to get on the water, and this morning we have the opportunity to participate in an optional canoe trip on the river. Around noon (after lunch), we will leave the Orange River and head inland to the Fish River Canyon, the longest river in Namibia and the largest canyon in Africa. We will drive to the edge of the Fish River Canyon and have the chance to stretch our legs on a leisurely walk along the rim of the canyon. Afterwards, we will turn west and drive to Keetmanshoop, where we will spend the night.

Our morning is spent strolling through the Quiver Tree Forest and the Giants Playground – named after the way the massive dolerite blocks are placed on top of each other – creating rock formations and a series of mazes. Every overland journey has some long travel days, and today is one of those days as we venture deeper into the Namib Desert. Our destination is the dune fields that cover the western areas of the desert. Long dusty roads and sparsely populated farms give us a glimpse into the vastness of rural Namibia. From the grasslands in the east to the red dunes in the west, the slowly changing landscape represents the many faces of this desert land. We will spend the next two nights at the threshold of the dune fields and fall asleep to the unique calls of the elusive Barking Gecko.

Today we will get up early for our trip to the Namib-Naukluft National Park. We will enter the park just after sunrise and drive to the famous Dune 45. A brisk ascent of Dune 45 offers us the perfect vantage point to admire the changing colors of the desert. Once we are satisfied, we will descend from this famous dune and enjoy a hearty breakfast before taking a 4×4 transfer to Sossusvlei. Here, we will spend time on foot visiting the pans in Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. Our desert exploration ends with a visit to the Sesriem Canyon. This evening, we will empty the red sand from our shoes and spend the night under the magnificent stars of the desert, knowing that we have spent an entire day enjoying the wonders of this harsh land.

On the last day in the desert, we have the privilege of joining a local expert for an enlightening desert excursion (this activity could take place the day before). As we regretfully say goodbye to the Namib, we make a stop to celebrate our crossing of the Tropic of Capricorn. After taking in the wonders of the Namib Desert, we turn west and drive into the sunset towards our next destination, the vibrant coastal town of Swakopmund, where adventure and a welcome breath of civilization await us. Upon our arrival in Swakopmund, we will have the opportunity to book any number of exciting adventures. This evening, we will enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

While for many it is the adrenaline-fueled adventures that capture their attention, Swakopmund offers all that and more. Take the opportunity to explore the city at your own pace today, as there is a variety of attractions to suit every taste. Don't miss the selection of famous cafés and bakeries that offer a delightful array of Germany-inspired treats. Swakopmund provides all the amenities of a small town and is the perfect starting point for a journey through the northern regions of the country.

Our exploration of the desert continues with an excursion to the north, where we set off to Brandberg for a nature walk with your guide to see the rock paintings of the San. Brandberg (Burning Mountains) is considered the highest in Namibia and is home to the famous White Lady, one of more than 45,000 rock paintings in the area. This morning we will make the ±2-hour round trip to visit the painting that is said to be about 2,000 years old. (Please note that this activity will either take place this evening or tomorrow morning. The hike leads over rough terrain along the gorge of the usually dry Tsisab River)

With huge salt pans, savanna, and forest, Etosha is one of the best wildlife parks in Africa. Covering 18,000 square kilometers, it is one of the largest parks in southern Africa. Etosha means “great white area,” which refers to the large dry pan in the middle of the park.

“Our second day in Etosha allows for a full day to continue our exploration of the park. No day on safari is ever the same and the excitement before this special sight is the motivation that keeps our eyes wide open. We explore the edges of the Etosha pan in search of the rich wildlife found in the park.”

This morning is free for you to relax in camp. After lunch, we will board our truck and enjoy an afternoon drive as we make our way to our next overnight camp.

We leave the white sand of Etosha behind us and travel towards the Kavango River, entering the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area. It spans five countries, including parts of our route through Botswana and Zimbabwe, one of the largest conservation areas in the world, supporting diverse animal species and ecosystems. Our overnight stop in Divundu offers a glimpse into this rich natural paradise.

This morning we enjoy a relaxed boat ride along the calm waters of the Kavango River, taking in the peaceful landscape, the birdlife, and perhaps spotting hippos or crocodiles along the banks. In the afternoon, there is the option to participate in an optional game drive in Mahangu National Park, a hidden gem known for its rich biodiversity and frequent sightings of elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and even big cats.

We then cross the border into Botswana and make our way to the gateway to the Okavango Delta, the town of Maun. We spend the night in Maun before embarking on our next adventure – the Okavango Delta.

You will be separated from your truck for the next 2 nights and it is therefore important that you pack/gather your personal belongings which you may need, before we depart Maun. Please pack lightly and only take what you need for the following two nights. Accommodation in Khwai can best be described as a rustic style mobile fly camp. Your meru style tent is equipped with 2 single beds and adjoining en-suite amenities consisting of a bucket shower system and chemical toilet. Today we make our way towards the Okavango Delta. Early risers will have the opportunity to go on an optional scenic flight over the Delta (time and weather permitting). After your optional flight, you will be collected from Maun and will be transferred to the Khwai Conservation area in smaller safari type vehicles. Our guide will prepare us on what to expect for our afternoon mokoro excursion into the Okavango Delta. (Please note: It is possible that the mokoro activity could take place on an alternative day depending on the season).

Today is a full day with a game drive as we spend the majority of our day in the Moremi Game Reserve, in search of the species that roam the plains. Expect some bumpy roads as we traverse this wilderness area in our 4×4 vehicles. We hope to see as many species of fauna and flora as possible, while offering habitats from wetlands, open waters to grasslands and savanna woodlands. This evening we return to Khwai to share and compare all the amazing sightings during the safari.

The journey today from Khwai to Nata passes by the Botswana salt pans. You will break camp and depart in open 4×4 safari vehicles at dawn before meeting the truck in Maun. The scenic drive from Maun to Nata showcases some of Botswana's breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Keep your eyes open, as there is always the possibility of an animal encounter or two before reaching your overnight destination in Nata.

We travel from the Kalahari sands in Nata to Kasane and arrive just in time for lunch and a short nap before we set off in the afternoon to explore Chobe National Park from the river, enjoying a relaxed boat ride that allows us a personal encounter with the many elephants that frequent the river in the afternoon.

With the memories of our animal encounters firmly in our minds, we cross the border into Zimbabwe this morning and travel the short distance to the Victoria Falls. Today you have the opportunity to visit the spectacular Victoria Falls at your own pace, also known by the local name “Mosi-oa Tunya” (the smoke that thunders). While a large part of today is dedicated to the sight of the mighty Zambezi cascading into the Batoka Gorge below, the bustling adventure town of Victoria Falls also offers a range of optional activities for those looking for a rush of adrenaline in the afternoon. For the more relaxed traveler, there are also art markets and cafés on offer. This evening you have the opportunity to join the group for an optional dinner at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy a meal and reflect on the adventures of the day. Your guide will arrange a reservation for those who wish to participate.

With the many activities offered in Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) and Livingstone (Zambia), today is the perfect day for the adventure that suits your style best. Whether you navigate the mighty Zambezi River or enjoy a flight over the waterfalls, this is your day to enjoy the many attractions in Victoria Falls. Since your tour will continue tomorrow from Livingstone, your accommodation for tonight has been booked in Livingstone. However, you can spend the day in Victoria Falls and drive to Livingstone in the late afternoon. The transfer from Victoria Falls to Livingstone is included in your tour. You have the option to book a morning transfer (08:00) or an afternoon transfer (16:00). Please indicate your preferred time with your booking agent and/or at the time of booking.

Leaving early from the Zambian side of Victoria Falls, we catch a final glimpse of the mighty waterfalls before embarking on a long travel day. We get our first impressions of East Africa through the window of our truck: colorful markets, bustling villages, and rural scenes form the backdrop of our journey as we drive through Zambia. Upon our arrival, we enjoy a prepared meal while our guides inform us about the upcoming days.

This morning we drive through Lusaka, the bustling capital of Zambia, before turning east towards Petauke, our destination for the night. As a vital link between Lusaka and neighboring Malawi, the Great East Road winds through rural Zambia and we will cross the mighty Luangwa River along the way. Characterized by villages and subsistence farms, today's landscapes offer a stark contrast to the developed countries that many of us call home.

We look forward to the tranquility of South Luangwa and this morning we make our way to the banks of the Luangwa River. We stop at Mulberry Mongoose to view their local jewelry and curiosities; these accessories are made by local women from South Luangwa using organic materials sourced from the African bush. The Chipata region is a significant cotton producer, and we get a taste of the creativity of African culture. One of the most beautiful sunsets is certainly the one enjoyed on the banks of the Luangwa River, so grab a cold drink and watch the day come to an end.

South Luangwa National Park is a top-notch safari destination, and we have a full day to explore the park in search of the variety of animal species that can be found there. This morning you can take part in an optional morning safari or, during the dry season (April to December), join one of the iconic walking safaris offered in the park. This afternoon we will enjoy a sunset drive in the park, including a stop for a sundowner. The unique opportunity to explore the park at night gives us the chance to discover the elusive nocturnal species that are rarely seen during the day.

This morning we get on our truck and head to Malawi, the warm heart of Africa. Our destination tonight is the shores of Lake Malawi, the southernmost lake in the East African Rift system. As one of the ten largest lakes in the world, the lake stretches over 500 km along Malawi's western border and is home to more fish species than any other lake. We spend the night on the shores of the lake, this natural wonder.

Today is all about the lake, and this day is intended for you to relax by the lake. Take the time to read a book, enjoy the sun, or take in the many attractions available. If you wish, an optional hike to the nearby Dwanbazi waterfall can be undertaken with a local guide. The waterfall, located just a short 30-minute drive from the Nglala Beach Hotel, offers a breathtaking panorama from the summit. Depending on the weather, we may even have the opportunity to swim in the clear waters, surrounded by lush vegetation and the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Today we are on the road again for most of the day and will continue to travel north, where we will again spend the night on the shores of Lake Malawi. Enjoy the sunset over the lake from the beach this evening.

We set off this morning and head north towards the Utengule Coffee Lodge, where we will be staying overnight.

Before we continue to Iringa, we make a stop at a local coffee plantation, where we have the opportunity to see the process of growing and harvesting coffee beans and can try some of the beans. Then we rise up the Great Rift Valley and make our way further to Tanzania.

This morning we finish our journey at the doorstep of Mikumi National Park. We make a short stop in the Baobab Valley, Tanzania. A fascinating landscape dotted with ancient, majestic baobab trees that have withstood the test of time. These iconic trees create a surreal and breathtaking scene and cast dramatic shadows against the African savanna, the perfect backdrop for a group photo. Then we reach Mikumi, which is considered the fourth largest park in Tanzania but is part of a 75,000 square kilometer wilderness area that encompasses Selous, Africa's largest game reserve. Today you have the opportunity to book a safari in Mikumi National Park.

Today you have the opportunity to book additional safaris in Mikumi National Park or to participate in various cultural trips.

We spend the night in our accommodation before we set off early the next morning to catch our transport to the island of Zanzibar.

We set off early to reach our transport to the island of Zanzibar. After arriving at the ferry port, we make our way to our hotel in Stone Town.

With a rich history, this busy port was once a landmark for both the slave and spice trade routes. Our morning begins with a hike through Stone Town to discover the more well-known landmarks, including the birthplace of Freddy Mercury. After our city tour, we drive along the road to our base camp for the next 2 nights. Before our arrival, we will stop along the way to participate in a guided tour through spice plantations that leads through villages and spice farms. You will experience firsthand how spice farmers climb trees and seek specific plants, and you will have the opportunity to buy fresh spices directly from these farms.

Today is a free day to enjoy some of the many attractions and activities that are offered. Water sports is the theme of the day. Whatever you choose today, you have plenty of opportunity to create some island memories. Explore the many attractions available or simply relax on the beach and enjoy the sun.

We bid farewell to the white sandy beaches and the turquoise waters of Zanzibar. We board the ferry back to the mainland, arrive in the port city of Dar es Salaam, meet our truck again, and head north along the coast towards Bagamoyo. Once an important hub of East African trade routes, Bagamoyo is rich in history and Swahili culture. The drive provides an insight into the energy of city life before giving way to a more relaxed coastal landscape. We arrive in Bagamoyo in the late afternoon and settle into our accommodation.

From the coastal lowlands of Bagamoyo, the landscape gradually changes to rugged highlands as we drive through vibrant cities, remote villages, and stretches of open savannah. Along the way, we will experience the rhythms of daily life and enjoy the raw beauty of Tanzania's landscape. If time allows this afternoon, book an optional activity to a local coffee plantation or a guided bike tour.

Although it is a relatively short distance to Karatu, we will spend most of the day driving closer to the Ngorongoro Crater. Before our arrival in Karatu, we will visit the Mto wa Mbu market, located in the small village of Mto wa Mbu. Known for produce such as rice and their characteristic red bananas, the town is directly on the main road that leads straight into the Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater area. This evening, our guide will inform us about our 2-night trip.

We get up early and are picked up from our camp and taken to the Ngorongoro Crater in 4×4 safari vehicles. We will spend the morning exploring the crater floor, searching for the animals that roam the plains. In the afternoon, we will arrive at our camp in the Seronera region in the heart of the Serengeti National Park. The camp is surrounded by spectacular views and abundant wildlife, and this evening, while we enjoy a cold drink, we will savor the sights and sounds of nature passing right in front of our Meru tent.

This morning we get up early to enjoy a whole day on a safari through the Serengeti National Park. Famous for its rich wildlife that lives in the park, we will spend most of our day searching for the animals that reside here.

We leave the Serengeti National Park with amazing memories and will spend the night reflecting on our experiences in the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater on our return journey to Arusha.

We cross the border into Kenya this morning and make our way to Nairobi, where we will spend the night. You have the afternoon free to repack your bags for your trip to the Masai Mara. The visit to the Masai Mara will take place in safari vehicles and not by truck. For this reason, you are asked to bring a small overnight bag for traveling. You will need your towel, clothing, toiletries, and camping utensils.

We leave the capital Nairobi and travel to the Masai Mara, which is known worldwide for its endless plains of wildlife and spectacular beauty. The visit to the Masai Mara takes place in safari vehicles and not in the truck. For this reason, you are asked to bring a small overnight bag for travel. You will need your towel, clothes, toiletries, and camping utensils.

The gentle grasslands of the Masai Mara offer ideal opportunities for wildlife observation and photography. Some of the animals that can be found here are elephant, black rhinoceros, buffalo, leopard, cheetah, wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle. Hippopotamuses and crocodiles are numerous in the murky brown waters of the rivers that flow through this reserve. Today we will spend the whole day observing wildlife in the Mara to seek out all the animals.

This morning we said goodbye to Mara before heading to Lake Nakuru National Park, where we will enjoy a game drive through the park in the afternoon. Lake Nakuru is home to large flocks of flamingos and pelicans, as well as black and white rhinos, leopards, lions, and numerous antelopes. Originally established as a bird sanctuary, Lake Nakuru was designated a national park in 1968.

This morning we crossed the border into Uganda and set off for Jinja. Jinja is the second largest city in Uganda and is most famous as the point where the Nile (officially the Victoria Nile) flows out of Lake Victoria and begins its 6695 kilometer journey to Egypt and the Mediterranean.

After a short stop in the city of Kampala, we head towards the Murchison Falls National Park. Also known as Kabaraga Falls, the Murchison Falls is a waterfall located along the great Nile and is situated in the Murchison National Park. The park is considered one of the best national parks in Uganda. After we check into our accommodation in Masindi, your guide will inform you about the activities for the following day.

The Budongo Forest is the largest mahogany forest in all of East Africa and is home to the largest number of chimpanzees in all of Uganda. It is believed that there are between 600 and 700 chimpanzees in Budongo, and this morning we will meet with our chimpanzee guide who will accompany us on our hike through the forest in search of the chimpanzees. We will also enjoy a boat tour in the park. Note: Since chimpanzee trekking is limited to 12 guests per trek, if there are more than 12 guests on a tour, the trekking will be split between the morning and afternoon. Therefore, you may do the boat tour activity first and then the chimpanzee trekking or vice versa. Please be flexible.

This morning we leave Masindi and head towards the edges of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Our accommodation for the night is situated on a hill overlooking Lake Kikorongo.

Crossing the equator once again, we travel south to the beautiful landscape of Lake Bunyonyi. With great anticipation, we prepare for the upcoming gorilla trekking excursion, and this evening we will receive a briefing on what to expect.