27 Day Eastern Africa Adventure: Waterfalls, Beaches & Wildlife 18-39’s (Camping)

Day 1

Johannesburg, South Africa

You are welcome to arrive at any time.

Let’s spend the first night of your trip together in Johannesburg getting to know each other. You may choose to drink an Amarula cocktail at the hotel’s bar following your welcome meeting, or you may choose to go to Emperors Palace, which includes an array of restaurants and bars. During this adventure, you will have the opportunity to sit back, relax, eat some grub, sip a cocktail, and get to know your fellow travel buddies.

Accommodation: Hotel Sky Sandton or similar (1 Night)
Meals: No meals included on this day
Included Highlights: Welcome Meeting on Arrival Day
Optional Activities: Apartheid Museum 180 ZAR per person, Soweto Tour 1100 – 1650 ZAR per person

Day 2

Johannesburg – Serowe, Botswana

As you and your group cross the border into Botswana, you can check another country off your travel list. It will certainly be a long day of driving today, but use the time to talk to your group, swap stories, and observe the landscape change from the desolate scenery of the central-eastern part of Botswana to the wild bush within the Khama Rhino Sanctuary. It is here that the group will set up camp, enjoy one another’s company around a fire, and fall asleep peacefully.

In today’s travels, we will pass through a very desolate area of central-eastern Botswana. At the end of the day, we will camp within the Khama Rhino Sanctuary, a unique community-based wildlife conservation initiative in Botswana.

Accommodation: Khama Rhino Sanctuary Camp or similar (1 Night)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: ± 400 km
Travel Time: ± 4 ½ hours

Day 3

Serowe – Maun, Botswana

Discover some wildlife in an open-air vehicle with a guide on a wildlife safari drive through the Khama Sanctuary.

The land outside your window becomes more fertile as you approach the Okavango Delta as you jump in the overland vehicle and continue on to Maun. Scroll through your camera roll and check those pictures while the land outside your window becomes more fertile as you approach the area of the Okavango Delta. Taking a scenic flight over the delta is a great way to get your heart thumping like the beat of African drums after a long day of travel.

Accommodation: Sedia Riverside Lodge or similar (1 Night)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Included Highlight: Khama Rhino Sanctuary Drive (2 hours)
Distance: ± 524 km
Travel Time: ± 6 – 7 hours

Day 4

Maun – Okavango Delta, Botswana

Our day is going to be busy, but fun, and we wish we were going on this epic adventure with you.

Your morning will begin with the sound and smell of the bush around you, followed by a wildlife walk. The advantage of being on foot is that you will gain a much deeper understanding of the movements of the animals as well as their behavior on a much more intimate level.

On the way to our basic bush camp for the evening (get ready to completely unplug), we will embark on an exciting excursion deep into the Okavango delta in a traditional mokoro (dugout canoe). Enjoy a sundowner around the campfire, sing along with the locals, and unwind at camp.

Accommodation: Okavango Delta Camping or similar (1 Night)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Okavango Delta Excursion, Mokoro Experience (1 – 2 hours)
Travel Time: ± 1 hour
Please Note: We will leave our large luggage with the overland vehicle for this overnight excursion. It should be noted that there are no showers or running water available for toilets. Be sure to bring along five liters of water for drinking and cleaning

Day 5

Okavango Delta – Gweta, Botswana

It is no secret that Africa is home to some of the most beautiful sunrises in the world, and today if the weather permits you will get to experience those almost too vibrant colors that we all picture when we picture going on safari to Africa.

As you ride out of the Okavango Delta, tip your heads back, take a deep breath, and feel the mokoro cut through the crystal-clear channels. After freshening up in Maun (showers everyone!) the group will embark in the overland vehicle to Gweta, where they will camp under massive baobab trees.

You can cool off in the pool if you need to during your stay at the campsite tonight with the towering baobab trees surrounding the campsite.

Accommodation: Elephant Sands Camp or similar (1 Night)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Mokoro Experience (1-2 hours)
Distance: ± 240 km
Travel Time: ± 4 hours

Day 6

Gweta – Kasane, Botswana

Explore Chobe National Park on a river cruise from Kasane, where you will find the largest elephant population in southern Africa.

The rains bring life to the pans, awakening dormant fish and aquatic shrimp from their slumber. Grasslands surrounding the site are also teeming with life and are home to a large number of antelope that are preyed upon by a variety of predators. The best way to take in the scenery is by keeping your eyes focused on the passing world and then rewarding yourself with a toast as you camp under a great big African sky.

Our journey today takes us to Chobe National Park, which hosts the largest population of elephants in southern Africa. There is no better way to appreciate one of Botswana’s national parks and the thousands of elephants, crocodiles, and hippos that can be viewed from a sunset boat cruise on the Chobe River. Travel agents can assist you in pre-booking this service. A safari drive in an open vehicle may be another option for those who wish to see lions, antelope, and, of course, elephants.

Accommodation: Thebe River Safaris Camping or similar (1 Night)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Optional Activities: Chobe River Sunset Cruise
Distance: ± 420 km
Travel Time: ± 6 hours

Day 7

Kasane – Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

We cross the border from Botswana to Zimbabwe, the home of the magnificent Victoria Falls. After all that driving, you are bound to be hungry, and we have a treat in store for you today! In the afternoon, the group will have a traditional lunch at the Lusumpuko Women’s Club. The mist in the air will greet you as you enter Victoria Falls with a full belly and even more, full hearts.

Discover one of the world’s largest waterfalls up close. Those seeking adventure may wish to consider going whitewater rafting, taking a scenic helicopter flight over the falls (epic selfies anyone?) or taking the plunge by bungee jumping while viewing Victoria Falls.

Choose to pre-book the Chobe National Park Safari Drive and explore the park early in the morning before crossing the border into Zimbabwe and continuing on to the town of Victoria Falls. Experience the awesome Victoria Falls up close (and get wet from the spray), or bungee jump (with Victoria Falls in sight).

Please Note: You will be staying in Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) and NOT in Livingstone (Zambia). It is important that you obtain the necessary visa.

Accommodation: Explorers Village Camp or similar (1 Night)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Included Highlight: Lusumpuko Women’s Club Lunch
Optional Activities: Victoria Falls Visit 50 USD per person, Chobe National Park Safari Drive
Distance: ± 85 km
Travel Time: ± 2 – 3 hours

Day 8

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

You can spend another day viewing Victoria Falls or take part in the optional activities. Go Whitewater Rafting on the raging rapids of the Zambezi for some thrilling excitement as you navigate your way through grade 5 rapids. Lunch and transfers are included in this activity cost.

Please note: The river conditions will vary depending on the time of the year. High water season is from February to July and low water season is from August to January. Also note the heavy rains of March and April may result in a closed season for rafting. You will depart in the morning and spend the full day navigating your way through the canyon, you will also need to partake in a 45 min hike down and again back up the Batoka Gorge so be prepared with appropriate footwear.

Another popular and exciting activity is bungee jumping from the Victoria Falls bridge. Or take a 15 min Helicopter flip to see Victoria Falls in all its beauty from above as the river makes its way to the gorge and plummets to the depths below. You will hopefully also be able to spot giraffes and elephants in the surrounding area. In the evening you can go on a sunset cruise to toast the end of the day.

Accommodation: Explorers Village Campsite or similar
Meals: No meals included today
Optional Activities: Victoria Falls Visit (50USD), Victoria Falls Whitewater Rafting (120USD per person) – excluding 10USD park entry, Zambezi Bungee Jump (168USD per person), Victoria Falls Helicopter Ride -15min (150USD per person), Zambezi River Sunset Cruise (57USD per person), Princess Laundry Service (20USD)

Day 9

Victoria Falls – Lusaka, Zambia

Today’s lengthy adventure through rugged roads leads us to an exclusive game farm located 20 kilometres outside of Zambia’s capital, Lusaka. Here, you will be able to admire the many zebra, buffalo and springboks that wander freely around the area. At the campsite you can unwind next to the swimming pool, or at the camp’s bar.

Note: As this is an overnight stop alongside two long travel days, you will unfortunately not have time to explore Lusaka as your camp is 29km outside of the town.

Accommodation: Eureka Campsite or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: ± 543 km (10 hours travelling time)

Day 10

Lusaka – South Luangwa, Zambia

We travel across the Zambian countryside making our way to our camp for the evening, on the banks of the Luangwa River.

Accommodation: Wildlife Camp or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: ± 575 km (8 – 9 hours travelling time)

Day 11

South Luangwa, Zambia

Today you are free to explore the South Luangwa National Park. There are plenty of activities to partake in and enrich your time here such as walking safaris, night drives and a visit to the local village. We highly recommend the walking safari as South Luangwa is the birthplace of walking safaris in Africa and there are loads to see and experience in this park.

Accommodation: Wildlife Camp or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Activities: South Luangwa Walking Safari (65USD per person), Morning or Evening South Luangwa Wildlife Safari Drive (50USD per person)

Day 12

South Luangwa – Chipata, Zambia

This morning you can enjoy an optional morning walk (seasonal) or drive in the park. We later head to the community empowerment Tribal Textiles Market & Courtyard Cafe for lunch and a craft workshop. The day ends when we arrive at camp in Chipata.

Accommodation: Mama Rula’s Camp or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Tribal Textiles Market & Courtyard Cafe
Optional Activities: South Luangwa Walking Safari (65USD per person), South Luangwa Wildlife Safari Drive (50USD per person)
Distance: ± 135 km (2 – 3 hours travelling time)

Day 13

Chipata – Kande Beach, Malawi

We cross the border into Malawi today, so be sure to once again have your visa ready. Malawi will be our home for four evenings allowing is to unwind on the shores of ‘the Lake of Stars’. Beach strolls, swimming in the sparkling water and snorkelling among exotic fish are all part of your incredible stay here. Pay a visit to a range of lakeside camps as we drive northward along Lake Malawi’s shores. For the most part, Malawi is very conservative so please show your respect by remaining covered in public without exposing shoulders and knees outside of camp boundaries.

The Lake is the primary attraction of Malawi and is around 500 kilometres in length. Lake Malawi houses more fish species than any other lake in the world and has large shoals of Chichlids. Locals depend heavily on the lake for survival – they use mokoros (dugout canoes) to fish from and throw out long nets. There is also a wide variety of diverse ethnic groups here, all speaking their own language.

Accommodation: Kande Beach Resort & Campsite or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: ± 400 km (7 hours travelling time)

Day 14

Kande Beach, Malawi

Take some time today to relax and enjoy Kande Beach. Explore the area by foot, go snorkelling or enjoy a village tour. A traditional dinner cooked by the locals will be enjoyed tonight.

Accommodation: Kande Beach Resort & Campsite or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Kande Beach Local Dinner
Optional Activities: Snorkelling (25USD per person), Village Walk (20USD per person), Swimming

Day 15

Kande Beach – Chitimba, Malawi

In the morning, we will leave the Kande beach and drive north to Chitimba beach complete with beautiful views of Tanzania across the lake and mountains in the background. You are free to spend the afternoon exploring.

Accommodation: Chitimba Beach Lodge & Camp or similar
Meals: Breakfast. Lunch, Dinner
Distance: ± 235 km (5 hours travelling time)

Day 16

Chitimba, Malawi

We have a final day at Lake Malawi today for you to take time to see and do anything that your heart desires, such as swimming or snorkelling, or visiting the local village. There is also a hike along the Nyika Plateau all the way up to Livingstonia where you can have a great view of Lake Malawi.

Accommodation: Chitimba Beach Lodge & Camp or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Activities: Hike to Livingstonia (35USD per person), Village Walk (15USD per person), Carving Skills Workshop (25-35USD per person), Kayaking Chitimba Bay (35USD per person)

Day 17

Chitimba – Iringa, Tanzania

We make our way into Tanzania today, travelling out of the Great Rift Valley through some incredible mountain passes. During our journey we are spoilt with beautiful scenery of the massive tea plantations in the highlands as we head through to Iringa, where we set up camp.

Accommodation: Kisolanza Farmhouse or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: ± 534 km (11 hours travelling time)

Day 18

Iringa – Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Today we depart for Dar es Salaam, a city that began as a fishing village before becoming a port and trading hub. It will be a long driving day of about 10 hours. Dar es Salaam, or ‘Abode of Peace’ in Arabic, is Tanzania’s biggest city, with a population of more than 2.5 million. It is also the country’s wealthiest city, and a significant economic hub.

Accommodation: Mikadi Beach Lodge or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: ± 637 km (12 hours travelling time)

Day 19

Dar es Salaam – Zanzibar Beach Resort, Tanzania

We will take a ferry to explore the picturesque beaches of the northern tip of Stone Town. During your stay here we encourage you to dress modestly due to the Muslim religion. Women are asked to cover up and men should refrain from wearing shorts. Please always ask before taking photographs.

Accommodation: Fun Beach Resort or similar
Meals: Breakfast
Distance: ± 60 km (2 -3 hours travelling time in the overland vehicle) + 2-hour Ferry trip

Day 20

Zanzibar Beach Resort, Tanzania

Today we take time walking along the beaches or going snorkeling, scuba diving, or sailing the azure waters on traditional boats including lunch and canoe trip. Explore the sea life of Mnemba island and relish the turquoise coastline. The locals here get very excited about seeing visitors and will offer you a plethora of activities to partake in. Try not to be overwhelmed by their enthusiasm!

Accommodation: Fun Beach Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast
Optional Activities: Scuba Diving (130USD per person), Snorkelling  (40USD per person), Safari Blue Sailing Day Trip (60-100USD per person), Swahili Cultural Tour (70-200 USD per person)

Day 21

Zanzibar Beach Resort – Stone Town, Tanzania

We will travel back to Stone Town stopping for a guided tour of the spice plantation where you can walk through the farmlands and learn more about the spices and their medicinal and culinary uses. Prick your senses as you familiarize yourself with black pepper, cardamon, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla and lemon grass.

Have the rest of the day free to explore the cobble streets of Stone Town. Marvel at Arabic buildings while getting lost in narrow lanes exploring local artworks, antique shops and traditional printed fabrics.

Accommodation: Spice Palace Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast
Included Highlight: Spice Plantation Tour
Optional Acivities: Stone Town Walking Tour (15USD per person)
Distance: ± 60 km (1 – 2 hours travelling time)

Day 22

Stone Town – Bagamoyo, Tanzania

A ferry will take us back to the mainland and we make our way north to the coastal town of Bagamoyo. Recently named a World Heritage Site, Bagamoyo was an important trading ports to the central east African coast in the late 19th century.

If you have booked the Zanzibar Express you will remain in Stone Town where you can enjoy a free day of shopping, relaxing or wandering through the markets. Tomorrow you will fly to Arusha to meet the group.

Accommodation: Firefly Bagamoyo Campsite or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Ferry Trip (Stone Town – Dar es Salaam)
Optional Activity: Zanzibar Express flight Northbound (upgrade includes all transfers, local flight and additional hotel night in Zanzibar)
Distance :± 60 km (1 – 2 hours travelling time) + 2-hour Ferry trip

Day 23

Bagamoyo – Arusha, Tanzania

Today we pass Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest mountain, and make our way toward Arusha. Situated at the base of Africa’s fifth tallest mountain, Mount Meru, Arusha is our base for the evening. This region is often referred to as the ‘safari capital’ of Tanzania.

Arusha offers up plenty of protected national reserves and mountains, while being a picturesque contemporary town. In the afternoon you will have time to pack a daypack for our three-day excursion to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. Be sure to pack warm clothing for the evenings and insect repellent, sunscreen and water for the hot days.

Zanzibar Express: You will be transferred this morning from Stone Town to the airport for a scenic flight to Arusha. From Arusha you will be taken to the camp where you will meet up with the group.

Accommodation: Meserani Snake Park or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: ± 590 km (12 hours travelling time)

Day 24

Arusha – Serengeti National Park / Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania

Following breakfast, we start our adventure into the Serengeti National Park and the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater – two of Africa’s leading wildlife regions. Your 3 day and 2 night excursion starts a you hop on the specialised 4×4 safari vehicle which leads us on an incredible game drive through the Park by expert driver/guides. The trucks we use have sliding windows and a big, pop-up roof that is ideal for fantastic game viewing.

With an area of 14,763 square kilometres, the Serengeti is incredibly vast. We camp and spend time game viewing in the central Serengeti ‘Seronera’ region, which is situated in the southeast of the park. You can expect to see a variety of wildlife such as buffaloes, lions, zebras, wildebeest, elephants along with many other animals.

Due to the size of the reserve, certain areas will not be available to visit during our stay here. As we travel through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and into the Serengeti National Park, you will begin to realise the enormity of this region, admiring the huge populations of wildlife that roam the acacia-spotted plains.

Accommodation: Seronera Campsite or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Serengeti National Park Safari
Distance: ± 320 km (8 hours travelling time)

Day 25

Serengeti National Park – Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

We will continue to experience the Serengeti on more game drives in the morning. When we return to the campsite we will pack up and journey to the Ngorongoro Crater for spectacular views of the rim populated with a variety of wildlife where we will camp for the night.

Some of you may have pre-booked a Serengeti Balloon Safari in which case this activity will likely take place today. In this case you will miss the morning game drive.

Accommodation: Simba Campsite or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Serengeti National Park Safari
Optional Activities: Serengeti Balloon Safari
Distance: ± 160 km (4 hours travelling time)

Day 26

Ngorongoro Crater – Arusha, Tanzania

Today we travel to the crater floor, taking in the massive variety of fauna and flora, including zebra, gazelle, impala and cheetah that are enclosed by the crater’s walls. Following our last safari we make our way back to Arusha.

Accommodation: Meserani Snake Park or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Ngorongoro Crater Wildlife Safari Drive
Distance: ± 200 km (4 – 5 hours travelling time)

Day 27

Arusha – Nairobi, Kenya

Departing Arusha in the morning, we travel overland to the Hotel Boulevard in central Nairobi where your tour comes to an end upon arrival. For those travelling out of Nairobi, we highly recommend booking your flights later in the evening to avoid any unforeseen delays.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Distance: ± 283 km (9 hours travelling time)

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.