24 Day Epic Overland Expedition: East Africa & Zanzibar (Camping)

Day 1: Nairobi, Kenya

Spend the evening at the hotel bar with your new friends before tomorrow’s early morning. Spend a chill night getting to know your group and guide while filling those food and drink needs.

Accommodation: The Heron Portico or similar
Included Highlights: Welcome Meeting on Arrival Day
Optional Activities: Bomas of Kenya Tour 120 USD per person, The Carnivore Restaurant 130 USD per person, National Museum 3-53 USD per person, Karen Blixen Museum 34-75 USD per person, Railway Museum 6-34 USD per person

Day 2: Nairobi – Masai Mara, Kenya

Journey through the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Great Rift Valley, en route to the legendary Masai Mara Reserve. As the golden afternoon light bathes the savannah, embark on an unforgettable wildlife safari drive, delving into one of Kenya’s most celebrated wildlife destinations. Prepare to witness the magic of the Mara, where vast plains teem with iconic African wildlife. This captivating adventure combines breathtaking scenery with thrilling wildlife encounters, offering a truly immersive experience in the heart of Kenya.

Accommodation: Kenia Campsite or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Masai Mara Wildlife Safari Drive
Route: Nairobi – Masai Mara
Distance: ± 386 km
Travel Time: 7 hours

Day 3: Masai Mara, Kenya

Embark on an exhilarating safari adventure, boarding our specialized vehicle and venturing deep into the world-renowned Masai Mara Reserve for an unforgettable wildlife spotting experience. Immerse yourself in the heart of Africa’s iconic savannah, where nature’s drama unfolds before your eyes. Following this thrilling exploration, unwind and enjoy a leisurely afternoon at our comfortable camp, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the African wilderness. This journey blends the excitement of a classic safari with the tranquility of a relaxing camp experience, offering the perfect balance for any wildlife enthusiast.

Accommodation: Kenia Campsite or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlights: Masai Mara Wildlife Safari Drive
Optional Activities: Masai Mara Balloon Safari

Day 4: Masai Mara – Lake Nakuru National Park, Kenya

Begin your day with an exciting 4×4 safari adventure, departing from the camp and venturing through the captivating landscapes. We’ll then reunite at Ubuntu Cafe, where a delicious lunch awaits. Following this delightful meal, immerse yourself in an afternoon wildlife drive, exploring the diverse ecosystem and encountering its fascinating inhabitants. This journey combines thrilling exploration with culinary delights, offering a memorable experience in the heart of the African wilderness. Prepare for an afternoon filled with incredible wildlife encounters, and the chance to savour the flavours of the region.

Accommodation: Nderit Campsite or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlights: Lake Nakuru Wildlife Safari Drive, Café Ubuntu 3-Course Farm-to-Table Lunch
Route: Masai Mara – Maai Mahiu – Lake Nakuru National Park
Distance: ± 280 km

Day 5: Lake Nakuru National Park – Eldoret, Kenya

Embark on an exhilarating morning safari drive around the picturesque Lake Nakuru, where abundant wildlife thrives against a stunning backdrop. Witness nature’s spectacle unfold before continuing our overland journey in the Lando to Eldoret. This safari provides a fantastic opportunity to spot diverse species in their natural habitat, creating lasting memories of the beautiful Kenyan landscape. Prepare to be amazed by the sights and sounds of this vibrant ecosystem, as we traverse from the shores of Lake Nakuru to the vibrant town of Eldoret.

Accommodation: Greenwoods Resort and Campsite or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlights: Lake Nakuru Wildlife Safari Drive
Route: Lake Nakuru National Park – Eldoret
Distance: ± 170 km

Day 6: Eldoret – Kampala, Uganda

Crossing the border from Kenya into Uganda is your opportunity to add another country to your travel list. In the late afternoon, you will arrive in Kampala (the country’s capital) and camp there, reminiscing about inside jokes and memories from the trip.

Accommodation: Red Chilli Hideaway or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Route: Eldoret – Kampala
Distance: ± 350 km

Day 7: Kampala – Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda

Today, experience the unique thrill of crossing the equator as we journey from Kampala to the breathtaking Lake Bunyonyi in our Lando. Derived from the local word meaning ‘place of many little birds,’ Lake Bunyonyi’s intricate shoreline weaves around 29 verdant islands, nestled amidst dramatic, terraced hillsides. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the serene beauty of this hidden gem, enjoying free time to explore its captivating surroundings. Take a refreshing dip in the lake’s tranquil waters, renowned for their calmness, and soak in the peaceful ambiance of this stunning Ugandan paradise. This equatorial crossing and lakeside retreat offers a truly memorable experience, blending geographical significance with natural splendor.

Accommodation: Bunyonyi Overland Resort or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Route: Kampala – Lake Bunyonyi
Distance: ± 520 km

Day 8: Lake Bunyonyi – Gorilla Trek, Uganda

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime mountain gorilla trekking adventure within the legendary Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Guided by expert park rangers, venture deep into the verdant, volcanic rainforest, navigating challenging yet rewarding trails in pursuit of these magnificent primates in their natural habitat. Prepare for an unforgettable, though potentially strenuous, hike as trek lengths and difficulty vary. Understand that to protect this precious ecosystem, Ugandan authorities strictly limit access, allowing only eight visitors per gorilla family daily. Our group may be divided into smaller sub-groups, and depending on tour numbers, some treks may occur on separate days. This exclusive experience offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring presence of mountain gorillas in their untouched sanctuary.

Accommodation: Bunyonyi Overland Resort or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlights: Mountain Gorilla Trek

Day 9: Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda

Let’s show some love to Lake Bunyonyi today. Explore this magical location while the morning mist rises from the gently lapping waters. Swimming, hiking, canoeing, bird watching, or a motorboat tour of the lake are just a few of the optional activities to choose from. In the evening, the group can relax together at the lodge and discuss their experience with the gorillas.

Accommodation: Bunyonyi Overland Resort or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Optional Activities: Swimming, Canoe Rental 10 USD per person, Nature Walk 5 USD per person, Motorboat Tour of Lake Bunyonyi40 USD per person, Bird Watching Walk 10 USD per person

Day 10: Lake Bunyonyi – Kalinzu Forest Reserve, Uganda

Embark on a scenic drive through the heart of Uganda’s lush countryside, journeying north to the captivating Kalinzu Forest Reserve. Nestled adjacent to the renowned Queen Elizabeth National Park, this hidden gem boasts a diverse tapestry of landscapes, providing exceptional opportunities for wildlife viewing. As the afternoon unfolds, immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the reserve, enjoying a period of leisure amidst nature’s splendor. Explore the fringes of this natural wonderland, or simply relax and absorb the sights and sounds of the Ugandan wilderness. This journey provides a serene counterpoint to the more intense game drives, and allows for a more relaxed connection with the natural world.

Accommodation: Craters Campsite or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Activities: Boat Cruise 40 USD per person
Route: Lake Bunyonyi – Kalinzu Forest Reserve
Distance: ± 155 km

Day 11: Kalinzu Forest Reserve – Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda

Those who are early birds get the worm, right? Well in this case, the early birds get to see chimpanzees. Explore the verdant Kalinzu Forest Reserve with a ranger while keeping an eye out for these chimpanzee families on an included chimpanzee tracking excursion. Following the visit to the tea plantation, the group will proceed to Lake Mburo. After arriving at the resort, you have the option of booking a boat cruise on the lake or exploring the surrounding area on foot.

Accommodation: Leopard Rest Camp or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Chimpanzee Tracking Excursion, Tea Plantation Visit
Optional Activities: Lake Mburo Boat Safari 30 USD per person, Nature Walk 25 USD per person
Route: Kalinzu Forest Reserve – Lake Mburo National Park
Distance: ± 150 km

Day 12: Lake Mburo National Park – Jinja, Uganda

It is only in Uganda that you can cross the equator on land; Uganda is one of the few countries in the world that allows this phenomenon to take place. The Aid Child Equation Café & Gallery provides a unique opportunity to observe water swirling in opposite directions on either side of the equator. After a full stomach and even more full hearts, the group will proceed on to Jinja, the adventure capital of Uganda.

Accommodation: Nile River Explorers Camp or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Included Highlight: Aid Child Cafe & Gallery
Route: Lake Mburo National Park – Jinja
Distance: ± 325 km

Day 13: Jinja, Uganda

It’s time to get out there, get active, and have some fun! Discover the plethora of outdoor and adventure activities available at Jinja today, whether you’re traveling alone or with a group. Take a raft down the White Nile River, mountain bike up and down the hills surrounding the town, or just stroll around the local market for a more laid back day. Watch out for monkeys and other wildlife that may wander into this town’s outskirts. If you would like to include Jinja River Rafting on your tour, you will need to pre-book it through the checkout process or ask your guide or travel agent for assistance.

Accommodation: Nile River Explorers River Camp or similar
Optional Activities: Nile River Sunset Cruise 30 USD per person, Mabira Forest Mountain Biking 55 USD per person, Quad Biking105 USD per person, Nile River Kayaking 140-160 USD per person, Bungee Jumping 145 USD per person, Jinja River Rafting 140 USD per person

Day 14: Jinja – Eldoret, Kenya

You will not mind today’s travel day since you could use the time to relax, plus, it’s the perfect opportunity to post those Instagram photos that your family and friends are eager to see. For a night out in Eldoret, the group will cross into Kenya from Uganda. Taking a group photo, perhaps getting a drink somewhere, and reminiscing about the epic(ness) of the journey thus far would be a great idea. There will be an overnight stop in between two long driving days.

Accommodation: Greenwoods Resort and Campsite or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Route: Jinja – Eldoret
Distance: ± 270 km

Day 15: Eldoret – Nairobi, Kenya

Having experienced an adventurous day yesterday, you will appreciate a more relaxed travel day today. Take advantage of the ride to Nairobi as the group transfers through the Kenyan countryside. To get you through the day, we are planning on naps, story time, and perhaps a mini dance party in the overland vehicle.

Accommodation: The Heron Portico or similar
Meals: Breakfast
Route: Eldoret – Nairobi
Distance: ± 315 km

Day 16: Nairobi – Arusha, Tanzania

Enjoy a shuttle ride to Arusha, Tanzania as you cross semi-arid lands of the Masai people. Get a glimpse of the mighty Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance and share stories with your road trip companions.

Accommodation: Comfort Eland Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast
Route: Nairobi – Arusha
Distance: ± 290 km

Day 17: Arusha – Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Now it is time for the Africa that you have all imagined, the Africa that has been portrayed in countless books, movies, and television shows. The Serengeti is one of the most famous national parks in Africa, so grab your cameras, buy a bucket hat, and embark on a wildlife safari drive. On a 3-day and 2-night excursion into the park itself and the great Ngorongoro Crater, you will encounter abundant wildlife, vast golden plains dotted with thorny acacia trees, and rivers teeming with hippopotamus. This trip includes a combination of 4×4 7-seater safari vehicles, accompanied by experienced safari guides and drivers, who will ensure that you have a wonderful encounter with the wildlife of the Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater. There is a sliding window on each safari vehicle as well as a large pop-up roof, which makes them ideal for viewing both the animals and the scenery. Within the next three days, the group will be divided among several vehicles, and your guide will spend time in each vehicle.

Accommodation: Seronera Campsite or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Serengeti National Park Safari
Route: Arusha – Serengeti National Park
Distance: ± 320 km

Day 18: Serengeti National Park – Ngorongoro, Tanzania

Embark on a safari in the Serengeti with your friends one last time. Before returning to break down camp, watch the animal kingdom awaken in this grassland savannah as the sun rises higher in the sky. After that, we will travel to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, which offers some of the best wildlife viewing in Africa. Enjoy the spectacular views from the crater rim and watch the animals meandering through the crater floor drinking water from the permanent supply. The camp will be set up near the rim of the crater in the late afternoon, and then you will have the rest of the day to explore one of the world’s most beautiful wildlife habitats.

Accommodation: Simba Campsite or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Serengeti National Park Safari
Optional Activity: Serengeti Balloon Safari
Route: Serengeti National Park – Ngorongoro
Distance: ± 160 km

Day 19: Ngorongoro – Arusha, Tanzania

Descend into the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater for an unforgettable final safari, where towering crater walls encircle a world teeming with wildlife. After an immersive morning adventure, our 4×4 safari vehicles ascend, returning us to Arusha. En route, we’ll pause at the vibrant Mto wa Mbu Village, embarking on a captivating cultural walk to witness authentic rural Tanzanian life. This enriching experience culminates in a traditional lunch shared with welcoming members of the local community, offering a genuine taste of Tanzanian hospitality and culture. This is more than just a safari; it’s a journey into the heart of Tanzania.

Accommodation: Comfort Eland Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Included Highlight: Mto wa Mbu Village Visit and Lunch, Ngorongoro Crater Wildlife Safari Drive
Route: Ngorongoro – Arusha
Distance: ± 200 km

Day 20: Arusha – Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Watch the Tanzanian countryside pass by and the blue waters of the Indian Ocean as you leave Arusha and travel towards Dar es Salaam. The city was originally a fishing village in the mid-19th century before becoming a major port and trading center. Before embarking for the island beaches of Zanzibar, the group will spend the night here. Would you like to cut down your travel time and spend more time in Stone Town? To include the Zanzibar Express on your tour, please pre-book it on the checkout page.

Accommodation: Kipepeo Beach Village or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Optional Activities: Zanzibar Express
Route: Arusha – Dar es Salaam
Distance: ± 650 km

Day 21: Dar es Salaam – Stone Town, Tanzania

The next stop on your trip is going to be just what you need after the last few days of this trip were packed with activities. After waking up in Dar es Salaam, you will take a ferry to the paradise of Zanzibar. Prepare yourself for scenic island beaches that will have you contemplating the possibility of living off the grid here. Get ready to enjoy this Tanzanian archipelago, take tons of pictures, and relax in a place that has long attracted backpackers and adventurers to its sandy shores because there are few places on earth that are as captivating and exotic as this archipelago. Islam is the predominant religion in Zanzibar. A woman or man who is immodestly dressed or wearing shorts is likely to be harassed in Stone Town and cause offense. While customs are less strict on the beach, travellers are encouraged to respect the island’s culture by covering up when walking around. It is always a good idea to ask permission before taking a photograph.

Accommodation: Spice Palace Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast
Included Highlight: Ferry to Stone Town, Stone Town Orientation Walk
Optional Activities: Christ Church Cathedral & Old Slave Market 5 USD per person, Sultan’s Palace Museum 3 USD per person, Stone Town Walking Tour 15 USD per person
Route: Dar es Salaam – Stone Town (Ferry)

Day 22: Stone Town – Zanzibar Beaches, Tanzania

Explore the heart of Zanzibar this morning when you wake up in Stone Town. You will pass by balconies and gigantic wooden carved doors along the way as you wind your way through the winding historic unpaved alleyways of Stone Town. Spend hours wandering the streets and squares, sipping potent coffee from sidewalk vendors, and buying sweets from small cafes. Among the many things you should look out for are tinga-tinga paintings, antique shops, beautifully printed fabrics (kangas and kikois worn by the locals), little carved chests with copper inlays, and spices – all of which make wonderful gifts or memories to bring home. Group members will travel to Jambiani, a tropical haven, for a few days of relaxation.

Accommodation: S&S Hotel Jambiani or similar
Meals: Breakfast
Optional Activities: Jozani Forest Tour 35-150 USD per person, Swimming
Route: Stone Town – Jambiani
Distance: ± 60km

Day 23: Beach Day in Zanzibar, Tanzania

Take advantage of the opportunity to wake up in this island paradise and seize the day. Imagine Africa meeting Arabia and adding the Indian Ocean to the mix as a cherry on top, and you have one of the world’s great cultural crossroads. You may spend the day as you wish; you may dive, snorkel, board a sailing trip, or simply lounge on the beach and relax. It is Zanzibar’s tropical setting, unique culture, and lively beach party scene that make this place one of the most enjoyable East African Indian Ocean destinations.

Accommodation: S&S Hotel Jambiani or similar
Meals: Breakfast

Day 24: Zanzibar Beaches – Stone Town, Tanzania

You will have a difficult time pulling yourself away from the beauty that surrounds you in Jambiani today. Explore Zanzibar’s heart by traveling to Stone Town on the other side of the island. In the late morning, the tour comes to an end. The tour will end on arrival in Stone Town after you have been transferred from Jambiani. A transfer to the airport will be provided. Otherwise, please feel free to spend some more time in Stone Town before departing for the airport on your own. Please do not make any onward travel plans for earlier than 2:30pm.

Meals: Breakfast

Onward Travel Plans

Due to circumstances beyond our control while on tour (such as border crossings, traffic, breakdowns and delays, etc), the end time on the last day cannot be guaranteed. Therefore we strongly recommend you stay the night and fly out the next day. Please consult with your booking consultant.