Group trip Cape Town to Dar es Salaam - From the Atlantic to the Indian Ocean

We leave Cape Town and begin our grand adventure tour of Africa with a last stop for a view back at Table Mountain from Table Bay. Here there is an opportunity to enjoy homemade treats and baked goods at one of the farm stands (Pedstal) in the South African backroads. The Cederberg region not only offers spectacular mountains and orange farms but also the Rooibos bush. This herbal drink, native to the slopes of the Cederbergs, has earned an international reputation as a healthy and refreshing alternative to conventional tea. A dinner at our overnight stop gives us the chance to get to know each other while enjoying South African hospitality.

The Namaqualand region presents us with our first experience of the desert views that will accompany us in the coming days. We continue our journey northwards and, after a short stop in Springbok, head to our camp on the banks of the Orange River. During our Africa round trip in the spring months (July to September), you can encounter the wildflowers (such as Namaqualand daisies, aloes, proteas, and wild cabbage) that made this region famous. Regardless of the season, the unusual desert views provide a unique backdrop for today’s journey.

The Orange River (also known as Oranjierivier or Gariep River) is named after the Dutch royal family but was formerly known by its original name Gariep, which simply means ‘river’ in the native KhoeKhoe language. The Orange River, which originates in the Drakensberg mountains in Lesotho, is the longest river in South Africa at 2,200 kilometers and flows through large parts of South Africa, including desert landscapes along its banks, and eventually empties into the Atlantic Ocean in Namibia. This morning, we have the opportunity to join an optional canoe tour on the river, making it the best way to explore the river. Around lunchtime, we leave the Orange River and head inland to our next overnight stop. In Ais Ais, there is the option to unwind at the Ais Ais Hot Springs, a natural thermal spring with water temperatures of up to 65 degrees Celsius, ending our exciting day of safari and Africa round trip with relaxation.

Today we rise early as we are awaited by the Fish River Canyon, one of the largest canyons in the world in all its glory. We have the opportunity to see the morning sunbeams shining through the canyon and its cliffs. After stretching our legs with a small hike along the edge of the gorge, our breathtaking Africa round trip continues westward, where our next stop will be Keetmanshoop. In the afternoon, we embark on a hike through the Quiver Tree Forest (a forest located in the semi-desert Karas region) and the Giants Playground - named after the way in which the massive dolerite boulders have been stacked to form rock formations and a series of mazes.

Every round trip with breathtaking highlights has a few long travel days, and today is one of those. After breakfast, we embark on a long drive (during which we can let the diverse desert landscape of Namibia pass us by) to penetrate deeper into the Namib Desert. Our destination is the dune fields of the Namib-Naukluft Desert, which cover the western expanses of the desert and are home to some of the most impressive dune landscapes in the world. Long dusty roads and sparsely populated farmland give us a glimpse into the expanse of rural Namibia. From the grasslands in the east to the red dunes in the west, the slowly changing landscapes represent the many faces of this desert land. Tonight we will camp in front of the dune fields and fall asleep to the unique calls of the elusive Barking Gecko.

Today’s leg of our adventure through Africa gets us up early again, as an unforgettable morning in the dunes of the Naukluft National Park awaits us. A brisk ascent of Dune 45 provides us with the perfect vantage point to marvel at the changing colors of the desert and create a unique and unforgettable memory to take home. After descending from the dune, a hearty breakfast awaits us, before proceeding with a 4x4 transfer to Sossusvlei. Sossusvlei, with its massive red sand dunes, offers a unique desert landscape and is one of the most famous attractions in Namibia, thus also one of the highlights of our Africa round trip. Here, we will explore the pans of Sossusvlei and Deadvlei on foot. This evening, we shake the red sand out of our shoes and spend the night under the magnificently starry desert sky, knowing we spent an entire day experiencing the wonders of this rugged environment.

Our last day in the desert begins with joining a local expert for an educational desert tour. Afterwards, we leave the Namib Desert behind with countless memories and photos and after a stop at the Tropic of Capricorn (also known as the Southern Tropic in the southern hemisphere), we continue to the Atlantic coast. We make our way to the lively coastal town of Swakopmund, where adventures and a dose of civilization await us. Upon arrival in Swakopmund, we have the chance to book some of the many adventures available. In the evening, a delicious dinner awaits us at a local restaurant.

After breakfast, all travelers can indulge themselves. While many adrenaline-fueled adventures await many, Swakopmund has all that and more. Take the opportunity to explore the town, as there are numerous attractions for every taste. Don’t miss the selection of famous cafés and bakeries offering a delicious range of German-inspired treats. Swakopmund offers all the amenities of a small town and is the perfect base for travels to the northern regions of the country.

Today our adventure-filled Africa round trip continues. The road takes us north, where hot desert sand meets the cold waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Our guide will take us to the lichen fields and tell us about the lichen colonies. Lichen colonies are symbiotic communities made up of fungi and algae that serve as a food source for various animal species, including snails, insects, and mammals. Afterwards, we continue to Cape Cross, where the famous seal colony with over 200,000 Cape fur seals can be observed. Cape Cross is also the site where the first European explorer landed on the Namibian coast in 1486. After visiting Cape Cross, we leave the coast and head inland to the Khorixas area.

Today’s leg of our impressive adventure journey through Africa takes us to a piece of Namibian culture. We visit the petrified forest, a forest consisting of petrified tree trunks millions of years old, and the rock engravings of Twyfelfontein, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Khorixas area, located in the Kunene region, has been inhabited by the Khoi San for 6,000 years. The inhabitants use the site of Twyfelfontein for rituals that resulted in 2,500 rock paintings. In the afternoon, we proceed to a major highlight of our Africa round trip, the Etosha National Park, where upon arrival we will explore the park with a Nomad Truck, thus undertaking the first safari of the adventure journey.

Today we have a full day to experience safari in Etosha National Park. Located in northern Namibia, the Etosha National Park spans an area of 22,270 square kilometers, making it one of the largest national parks in Africa. Its wealth of wildlife, including elephants, lions, zebras, giraffes, wildebeests, and antelopes, makes Etosha National Park a very popular destination for safari tourists in southern Africa. A highlight of the park is the Etosha salt pan, which is usually very dry but fills with water after heavy rain and becomes an important habitat for many wildlife species.

At dawn, we embark on a game drive to explore the surrounding plains for the many species of resident animals. After lunch, we experience another safari in the form of a game drive, which will also take us to our next overnight stop.

After breakfast, we leave behind the breathtaking, since 1907 existing Etosha National Park in northern Namibia and continue our impressive Africa round trip towards the Okavango River. On the way, we will spend the night in the town of Divundu, located in the Caprivi Strip and in a subtropical region.

In the morning, after breakfast, we take a river safari by boat on the Okavango River with its diverse fauna, part of the unique and fragile ecosystem of the Okavango Delta. Afterwards, we cross the border into Botswana, where our next destination lies. The city of Maun is known as the gateway to the Okavango Delta, thus serving as the gateway for the next highlight of the journey. The Okavango Delta is the largest inland delta in the world, spanning 15,000 square kilometers and home to a wealth of wildlife and plants. Besides spectacular safaris, the local villages also provide an exciting insight into the lifestyle of the locals, making a visit to the delta a unique experience.

The day begins for early risers with the optional possibility of taking a flight over the Okavango Delta and enjoy the morning activities of the breathtaking and diverse wilderness from an aerial perspective. Following this, pickup will be in small safari vehicles to the Khwai Conservancy. The Khwai Conservancy is an area managed by the local community that spans 2,000 square kilometers. During the drive, the guide will inform us about what to expect during the afternoon drive, which will be conducted in a traditional Botswanian canoe through the delta. The following 2 nights, you will be separated from your luggage. It is advised to pack a small bag with necessary clothing, valuables, and essentials.

Today we anticipate a full day game drive through the Moremi Game Reserve, which borders the Khwai Conservancy. The Moremi Game Reserve is a UNESCO biosphere reserve, covering an area of 5,000 square kilometers, located in the eastern part of the Okavango Delta. Here, there is the chance to see the species that traverse the plains. The drive takes place on bumpy roads in the wilderness, using 4x4 vehicles. An astonishing variety of native flora and fauna can be seen. After returning to Khwai in the evening, there will be an opportunity to process and share the indescribable experiences of this safari round trip in southern Africa.

At daybreak, the adventure round trip through southern Africa continues. First to Maun, where we will switch back into our Nomad Truck. From Maun, the journey goes through the Botswanan salt pans, a picturesque landscape where encounters with wild animals can also occur. Upon arrival in Nata in northeastern Botswana, there will be a guided drive to the Nata pans, known as a breeding ground for numerous water birds, an important component of the ecosystem in northern Botswana. Here, for example, pelicans and flamingos can be observed, and migratory birds are also found here.

Today the adventurous journey continues to Kasane, where after lunch we will embark on a river safari to explore Chobe National Park by boat from the river. During the boat ride, many elephants can be observed, which gather by the river in the afternoon. Chobe National Park is one of the most famous national parks in southern Africa and covers an area of 11,700 square kilometers. It was founded in 1968 and is known for its elephant population.

After numerous and unforgettable safari experiences, today we cross the border into Zimbabwe. Upon arrival in the vibrant and culturally diverse city of Victoria Falls, there is not only the opportunity to explore the Victoria Falls but also to participate in one of the many optional adventurous activities the city has to offer. Victoria Falls is regarded as the largest waterfall in the world. It is not only a natural wonder but also holds cultural significance for the locals.

After breakfast, we have time today to participate in numerous activities around the Victoria Falls. Whether it’s a helicopter flight over the falls, rafting on the mighty Zambezi River, or one of the many other activities, there is something for every interest. Since the adventure journey continues the next morning from Livingstone, accommodation is booked for the coming night in Livingstone. However, there is the possibility to spend the day in Victoria Falls. The transfer is included in the travel price. A transfer can be arranged at 8 AM or 4 PM. Please inform the agent of your desired transfer time when booking.

In the early morning, we leave the Zambian city of Livingstone, named after David Livingstone, the European discoverer of the Victoria Falls. On our Africa round trip, we are now leaving southern Africa and entering the East African part of our journey. Through the window of our truck, we get our first glimpses of East African culture as we pass a backdrop of colorful markets, bustling African villages, and landscapes as we drive through Zambia. Upon arrival in Chirundu, a prepared local meal and a briefing by the guide about the coming days await us.

After breakfast, the day is free to enjoy. The accommodation is located on the banks of the Zambezi, so fishing on the Zambezi, river safaris, and bird watching are possible. Safari-hungry travelers have the chance to book a full-day safari in the Lower Zambezi National Park or take an excursion to the baobab forest (a unique natural phenomenon), where monkeys, bats, and other mammals can be seen. The town of Chirundu, located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, also invites a stroll.

Today begins after breakfast with a drive through the lively Zambian capital Lusaka. Afterwards, we continue our African adventure journey towards Malawi. While traveling along the Great East Road, the contrast of developmental differences between African cities and developed European nations versus the rural inner landscapes of Africa, gives a unique insight into the cultural differences of the locals' lifestyles. On the further journey today, we stop at the Luangwa Market, a bustling market where Zambian vendors sell their goods. In addition to local delicacies and agricultural products, regional antiques that make good souvenirs are offered.

After breakfast, we head relaxed toward South Luangwa National Park. During the drive, we will deepen our cultural impressions with a stop at Mulberry Mangoose. Here local jewelry and curiosities made by local women from organic materials from the African bush are showcased. Additionally, the Chipata area is a cotton producer and allows us to get an impression of the creativity of African culture. In the evening, one can end the day with a breathtaking sunset while enjoying a cold drink.

After the exciting past days of our adventure round trip through Africa, today is again focused on safari. The South Luangwa National Park is located on the banks of the Luangwa River, covering an area of 9,050 square kilometers and is home to a wealth of animal species. It is possible to participate in one of the optional morning safaris; during the dry season (April to December), walking safaris are offered. In the afternoon, a game drive with a stop for sunset and the subsequent opportunity to discover the nocturnal species that are rarely seen during the day is planned.

After breakfast, our experience and safari trip through eastern Africa continues to Malawi. The next destination is the southern part of Lake Malawi. With an area of 29,600 square kilometers, a length of 560 kilometers, and a width of 80 kilometers, Lake Malawi is one of the largest lakes in Africa. With its good water quality, it provides a habitat for numerous fish species, as well as birds and other animal species. Our overnight location lies on the shores of the lake.

During our exciting adventure trip through Africa, today is once again a day of relaxation. There is the opportunity to sunbathe by the lake or, depending on the weather, engage in one of the water activities. Additionally, a hike to the nearby Dwanbazi waterfall is possible, which offers unique and breathtaking panoramic views from its summit.

Today’s leg of our experience and safari trip through Africa takes us to the northern part of Lake Malawi. In the afternoon, we will take a walk through a lakeside village and afterwards enjoy the sunset on the lake shore.

After breakfast, our Africa experience journey continues to the north of Malawi to the Utengule Coffee Lodge. Here, we will spend the next night.

Before we head to another stop on our Africa round trip after breakfast, we will stop at a coffee plantation. Here we will have the opportunity to observe the process of growing and harvesting coffee beans and to taste the beans. After that, we visit the Great Rift Valley, a rift system on the African continent, which is one of the most prominent geological formations on Earth. In the afternoon, we will then cross the border into Tanzania.

After breakfast, our adventurous journey through Tanzania continues to Mikumi National Park. On the way, we make a stop in Baobab Valley, which presents a landscape featuring ancient and towering baobab trees. These trees create a breathtaking scene and cast a large shadow over the African savanna. Afterwards, we reach the 3,230 square kilometers large Mikumi National Park, where in the afternoon there is the opportunity to explore the park through a game drive.

Our fascinating and breathtaking Africa round trip is nearing its end, today we reach our penultimate destination. The city of Dar es Salaam is located on the coast of Tanzania and serves as a trade center and port city, and with a population of over 6 million people, it is also the largest city in Tanzania. The city offers its visitors historic buildings and picturesque African markets.

After breakfast, we take the ferry to Stone Town on the island of Zanzibar, where the final destination of our adventurous journey lies. Stone Town is a historic city with a rich history. The history dates back to the 19th century when the city was a significant trading center for slaves and spices.

After breakfast, the day begins with a walk through the city, where the well-known sights of the city, including the birthplace of Freddie Mercury, can be seen. Subsequently, we will head to accommodation on one of the white beaches of Zanzibar, where we will spend the last 2 nights of our eventful round trip. Along the way, there will be a stop for a guided walk through spice plantations and villages. Here, we can witness how spices are grown and harvested. In the afternoon, one can begin to relax at the extensive white sandy beach to conclude this journey.

To conclude this unique and breathtaking adventure and safari round trip, today is a free day. Besides relaxing on the beach and soaking up the sun, there are water sports opportunities and further activities available.

After breakfast, we take the ferry back to Dar es Salaam, where the end of the journey awaits us.