Overland safari from Victoria Falls to Zanzibar

This morning we drive through the bustling capital Lusaka in Zambia before we turn east towards Petauke, our destination for the night. As an important link between Lusaka and neighboring Malawi, the Great East Road winds through rural Zambia, and we will cross the mighty Luangwa River on the way. Dotted with villages and subsistence farms, today’s landscapes serve as a stark contrast to the developed countries many of us call home. We make a pleasant stop at the Luangwa Market, a busy hub where local Zambian vendors showcase their goods. Among the treasures on display are masau and masaku, delicious fruits available year-round and known for their heavenly taste. In addition, other African curiosities catch our eye, from charming miniature hippos to intricately woven baskets and papyrus rugs that expand the colorful tapestry of this vibrant market.

South Luangwa National Park is a top-class safari destination and we have a full day to explore the park in search of the diversity of wildlife found there. This morning you can participate in an optional morning safari or during the dry season (April to December) you can take part in one of the iconic walking safaris 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.

Today is all about the lake, and this day is meant for you to relax by the lake. Take the time to read a book, enjoy the sun, or delight in the many attractions that are offered. If you wish, an optional hike with a local guide to the nearby Dwanbazi waterfall can be taken. The waterfall, which is only a 30-minute drive from the Nglala Beach Hotel, offers a breathtaking panorama from the top. Depending on the weather, we may even have the opportunity to swim in the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by the lush vegetation and the natural splendor of the surrounding landscape.

We are setting off this morning and heading north, towards the Utengule Coffee Lodge, where we will be spending the night.

This morning we end our journey at the doorstep of Mikumi National Park. We make a brief stop in Baobab Valley, Tanzania. A fascinating landscape speckled with ancient, towering baobab trees that have withstood the test of time. These iconic trees create a surreal and breathtaking scene that casts dramatic shadows against the African savannah, 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 that surrounds Selous, Africa's largest game reserve. Today you have the opportunity to book a safari drive in Mikumi National Park.

We spend the night in Dar es Salaam before we set off early the following morning to take our ferry to the island of Zanzibar.

This vibrant harbor, which has a rich history, was once a landmark of both the slave and spice trade routes. Our morning begins with a walk through Stone Town to discover the more famous sights, including the birthplace of Freddy Mercury. After our city tour, we will drive to our base for the next 2 nights. Before our arrival, we will stop along the way to participate in a guided spice tour that takes us through villages and spice plantations. You will be able to experience firsthand how spice workers climb the trees and search for specific plants, and you will have the chance to buy fresh spices directly from these farms.

This morning we enjoy our last breakfast together, say goodbye to our fellow travelers, and drive back to Stone Town. Your tour ends after breakfast in Stone Town. Please note: you can choose to end your tour at the accommodation or transfer with the group to the ferry terminal.