Overland Safari from Victoria Falls to Zanzibar

We depart early from the Zambian side of the Victoria Falls and take a last look at the mighty waterfalls before embarking on a long journey. As we travel through Zambia, we get our first impressions of East Africa: colorful markets, bustling villages, and rural scenes frame the backdrop that we see through the window of our truck. Lusaka, the capital of Zambia since 1935, showcases the country's development after independence. Upon our arrival, we enjoy a prepared meal while our guide informs us about the upcoming days.

This morning we drive through Lusaka, the bustling capital of Zambia, before heading east towards Petauke, our destination for the night. Petauke is an important transit point between Lusaka and Malawi. As we travel along the Great East Road, we cross the mighty Luangwa River and pass landscapes dotted with villages and subsistence farms. The contrast between these rural scenes and the developed countries many of us come from is striking. We stop at the Luangwa market, where local Zambian traders display their goods, including delicious fruits like Masau and Masaku, charming miniature hippos, intricately woven baskets, and papyrus mats.

We look forward to the tranquility of South Luangwa as we make our way to the banks of the Luangwa River. Along the way, we stop at Mulberry Mongoose to view local jewelry and curiosities handmade by women from South Luangwa using organic materials from the African bush. The area around Chipata, a significant cotton producer, offers insight into the creativity of African culture. One of the most beautiful sunsets can be enjoyed on the banks of the Luangwa River, which we can admire with a cold drink in hand.

Established in 1938 and declared a national park in 1972, South Luangwa National Park is a premier safari destination. We spend the day exploring the park, which is home to a wide variety of wildlife. In the morning, you can participate in an optional morning safari or join one of the park's iconic walking safaris during the dry season (April to December). In the afternoon, we enjoy a sunset drive, including a sundowner stop. Exploring the park at night offers the chance to spot rare nocturnal species.

This morning, we board our truck and make our way to Malawi, the warm heart of Africa. Our destination today is the shores of Lake Malawi, the southernmost lake in the East African Rift system. Discovered by David Livingstone in 1859, Lake Malawi is one of the ten largest lakes in the world, stretching over 500 km along Malawi's western border. We spend the night on the shores of this natural wonder.

Today is all about the lake, and this day is reserved for your relaxation by the water. Take the time to read a book, sunbathe, or enjoy the many attractions on offer. If you wish, you can take an optional hike with a local guide to the nearby Dwanbazi waterfall. The waterfall, which is a short 30-minute drive from the Nglala Beach Hotel, offers breathtaking views from the top. Depending on the weather, we may also have the opportunity to swim in the pristine waters, surrounded by lush green landscapes.

Today, we are on the road for the majority of the day as we continue north where we will again overnight by the shores of Lake Malawi. In the afternoon, our guide takes us on a village walk through a nearby village. After the walk, enjoy the sunset over the lake from the beach.

We set off in the morning and continue our journey north towards the Utengule Coffee Lodge, where we will spend the night. Mbeya, founded during the gold rush of the 1920s, is now an agricultural hub in southwestern Tanzania.

Before we drive to Iringa, we stop at a local coffee plantation where we can see coffee bean cultivation and harvesting and taste some of the beans. Then, we ascend the Great Rift Valley and continue our journey into Tanzania. Iringa, founded by the Germans as a military post in the late 19th century, retains much of its colonial architecture.

This morning we conclude our journey at the doorstep of Mikumi National Park. We make a brief stop in the Baobab Valley, Tanzania, a fascinating landscape dotted with ancient giant baobab trees. These iconic trees create a surreal and stunning scenery and cast dramatic shadows over the African savannah - the perfect backdrop for a group photo. Afterward, we reach Mikumi, Tanzania's fourth-largest park, which is part of a 75,000 square kilometer wilderness area centered around the Selous Reserve, 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 participate in various cultural tours. Mikumi National Park was established in 1964 and is known for its diverse wildlife and picturesque landscapes.

We spend the night in Dar es Salaam before departing early the next morning to take our ferry to Zanzibar Island. Dar es Salaam, founded in the 1860s, is Tanzania's largest city and an important port on the Indian Ocean.

We set off early to take our ferry from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar. Upon arrival at the ferry terminal, we head to our hotel in Stone Town. Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its unique blend of African, Arab, Indian, and European cultural influences.

This bustling port, rich in history, was once an important location on the slave and spice trade routes. Our morning begins with a city tour of Stone Town, where we discover the most famous sights, including the birthplace of Freddie Mercury. After our city tour, we drive to our base for the next two nights. On the way, we stop for a guided spice tour that takes us through villages and spice plantations. We witness the workers climbing the spice trees and searching for specific plants. Additionally, you will have the chance to purchase fresh spices directly from these farms.

Today is a free day to enjoy some of the many attractions and activities on offer. Water sports take center stage today. Whatever you decide to do today, you have plenty of opportunities to create island memories. Explore the many attractions on offer or simply relax on the beach and enjoy the sun.

We say goodbye to the island and take the return ferry to Dar es Salaam, where the tour concludes upon arrival. Own arrangements or an extension of accommodation can be booked through Overcross.