45 Day Johannesburg to Nairobi Overland Tour (Accommodated)

Day 1

Johannesburg – Palapye, Botswana

Leaving the bustling city of Johannesburg behind, we embark on a journey through the North-West Province, crossing the border into Botswana and continuing along the Trans-Kalahari Highway to our overnight destination.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Cresta Palapye
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Route: Johannesburg to Palapye
Border Post: Botswana Pioneer Gate Tel: +267 533 3992, Open: 06h00 – 24h00, South Africa Skilpadshek Tel: +27 0800 00 7277, Open: 06h00 – 24h00

Day 2

Palapye – Maun, Botswana

The journey today takes us north through the dramatic landscapes of the Central Kalahari Desert towards the gateway to the Okavango Delta. A number of smaller towns and villages will be passed by along the way, providing an insight into everyday life in Botswana. An imposing monument to Botswana’s mineral wealth can be seen on our route at the Orapa Diamond Mine. This mine is one of the largest diamond mines in the world and is a joint venture between De Beers and the Botswana government. Contributing greatly to Botswana’s economy and export earnings, it is one of the country’s most important economic pillars. In addition to Orapa, we shall be traversing the southern end of the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park before reaching our overnight destination in Maun, so be on the lookout for various varieties of wildlife as they move between watering holes along our route.

Accommodation: Two per room: Maun Lodge or Cresta Maun Hotel
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Palapye to Maun
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3

Maun – Khwai Conservation Area, Botswana

As we prepare for our two-night adventure in the Okavango Delta, please pack lightly and ensure you have all your essentials. Early risers can opt for an optional scenic flight over the Delta (weather permitting), offering breathtaking aerial views of this natural wonder. Following the flight, we’ll transfer to the Khwai Conservation Area in smaller safari vehicles. Our guide will provide insights into the upcoming mokoro excursion, a traditional canoe ride through the tranquil waterways of the Okavango Delta. Please note that the timing of the mokoro activity may vary depending on seasonal conditions.

Accommodation: Two Per Permanent Meru Tent: Khwai Tented Camp
Facilities: En-suite facilities
Route: Maun to Khwai Conservation Area
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Sunset Mokoro Excursion (could take place the following morning)
Pre-bookable Optional: Okavango Delta scenic flight

Day 4

Khwai Conservation Area – Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana

It is a full day of game drives in Moremi Game Reserve today as we search for wildlife roaming the plains. Our 4×4 vehicles will traverse this wilderness area over some bumpy roads. We hope to see as many species of fauna and flora as possible, ranging from wetland habitats, open water, grasslands, and Savannah woodlands. We are back at Khwai this evening to share our awesome sightings from the safari and compare them.

Accommodation: Two Per Permanent Meru Tent: Khwai Tented Camp
Facilities: En-suite facilities
Route: Moremi Game Reserve
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlights: Full Day Game Drive Moremi Game Reserve

Day 5

Khwai Conservation Area – Nata, Botswana

Today we cross the Botswanan salt pans on our journey from Khwai to Nata. The camp will be packed up at first light and you will depart on an open 4×4 safari vehicle before meeting the truck in Maun. Driving from Maun to Nata provides visitors with a breathtaking view of Botswana’s spectacular landscapes and the rich cultural heritage of the country. Before reaching your overnight destination near Nata, keep an eye out for wildlife encounters.

Accommodation: Two per room: Elephant Sands or Nata Lodge or Planet Baobab or Gweta Lodge 
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Khwai Conservation Area to Nata (± 6-8 hours)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Salt Pans viewpoint (seasonal access dependant)

Day 6

Nata to Kasane – Chobe National Park, Botswana

Rise with the sun for an intimate bush walk, decoding the wild’s secrets through animal tracks and hidden signs, a perspective beyond the safari vehicle. We journey through the scenic Kalahari sands and arrive in Kasane in time for a leisurely lunch and a short rest before exploring the Chobe National Park by boat. Our leisurely boat cruise allows us to witness the numerous elephants that frequent the river during the afternoon hours, allowing us to get up close and personal with them.

The second biggest park in all of Botswana, Chobe National Park spreads over approximately 11,700 square kilometres of northern Botswana. The Park forms part of the medley of lakes, islands and floodplains created from the river systems of the Kwanda, Linyanti and Chobe Rivers. This region is well-known for it’s enormous buffalo and elephant herds – the population of which is presently around 120,000. The Chobe elephants migrate often and travel up to 200 kilometres from the Chobe and Linyanti rivers, where they gather during the dry season, to the pans in the southeast portion of the park during rainy season. These Kalahari elephants are identified by their frail ivory and short tusks which is possibly due to the lack of calcium in the soils. Because of their high population, much damage to vegetation is caused in certain areas and therefore, culls have been considered but never carried out due to the enormous controversy surrounding the act.

The initial inhabitants of this region were the San people, known in Botswana as the ‘Basarwa’. They were nomadic hunter-gatherers who traveled from place to place searching for the next source of food and water. The San were eventually forced out by groups of the Basubiya people and, in 1911, a congregation of Batawana moved to the area. It was decided in 1931 that a national park would be erected in order to guard the wildlife from extinction as well as to attract tourists. In 1932, an area of approximately 24,000 square kilometres in the Chobe region was declared as a non-hunting zone. Throughout the years, the boundaries of the park have been modified and the people who have settled in the region have been progressively relocated. Chobe National Park was eventually completely rid of human occupation in the year 1975, and in 1980 (and once more in 1986) the boundaries were once again altered to it’s current size.

Accommodation: Two per Room Thebe River Safaris or Kwalape Safari Lodge 
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Route: Nata to Kasane
Included Highlight: Morning Bush Walk / Chobe National Park Boat Cruise

Day 7

Kasane – Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Today, we cross the border into Zimbabwe and travel the short distance to Victoria Falls with the memories of our wildlife encounters still fresh in our minds. As you may know, the Victoria Falls are also known locally as Mosi oa Tunya (the smoke that thunders) due to their spectacular beauty. There are a variety of activities available in the bustling adventure town of Victoria Falls for those who prefer a dose of adrenaline in the afternoon besides viewing the mighty Zambezi River as it flows into the Batoka Gorge below. Additionally, craft markets and coffee shops are available for those seeking a more relaxed travel experience.

At 1700 metres wide and 108 metres high, Victoria Falls are said to be the biggest falls in the entire world. According to popular beliefs, Scottish explorer David Livingstone was the very first European to stand witness to the mighty Victoria Falls and wrote: “It has never been seen before by European eyes, but scenes so wonderful must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight”. Because of its enormous power and size, the Falls are embellished with countless mythologies. It is believed by the local Tonga people of Zambezi that a river god, Nyaminyami, lives in the water in the shape of a gigantic snake. The Zambezi River flooded thrice when the Kariba Dam was constructed in the 1950’s, causing numerous deaths and much devastation. The locals believe that Nyaminyami became angry with the building of the Dam and thus was the entity that caused the horrendous floods. The peculiar form of Victoria Falls allows its entire width to be seen face-on from as near as 60 metres to the Falls due to the Zambezi River dropping into a deep and narrow slot-like fissure connected to a lengthy sequence of ravines. There are very few waterfalls in the world that permit this close of an approach on foot.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Shearwater Explorers Village or Phezulu Guest Lodge or Bayete Guest Lodge
Facilities: En-suites facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Meals: Breakfast
Route: Kasane to Victoria Falls
Pre Bookable Optional: Chobe National Park Game Drive
Optional Activity: Victoria Falls National Park Entry
Border Post: Zimbabwe: Kazangula Road, Open: 06h00-20h00, Botswana: Kazangula Road, Tel: +267 62 50330, Open: 06h00-20h00

Day 8

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe – Livingstone, Zambia

Today is the perfect day for an adventure that suits your style in Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) and Livingstone (Zambia). Take a rafting trip down the Zambezi River or fly over Victoria Falls on this day to explore all that Victoria Falls has to offer. The accommodation for tonight in Livingstone has been booked as your tour continues tomorrow from Livingstone. In the late afternoon, you can transfer to Livingstone from Victoria Falls. Your tour includes a transfer from Victoria Falls to Livingstone. Transfers can be booked either in the morning (08:00) or in the afternoon (16:00). When booking, please inform your booking agent of your preferred time.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Victoria Falls Waterfront, Livingstone, Zambia
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Meals: Breakfast
Pre-Bookable Optional Activities: Historical Bridge Tour, Helicopter Flight over the Falls, Bungy Jumping, Bridge Swing, Simunye Theatre Show, Sunset Boat Cruise, Guided Tour of the Falls, Chobe Day Trip (Some activities only available from Victoria Falls, min numbers may apply to activities)

Day 9

Livingstone – Lusaka, Zambia

We travel toward the lively city of Lusaka, Zambia’s capital. We catch a last glimpse of Victoria Falls from the Zambian side before we head off on a long day of travel. As we travel through Zambia, we see colourful markets, busy villages, and rural scenes as our first impressions of East Africa are formed. Our guides brief us on the days ahead as we enjoy a prepared meal on arrival.

The capital and biggest city of Zambia, Lusaka has two primary spoken languages – English and Nyanja. It is situated in the southern region of the central plateau of Zambia at a height of 1300 metres and boasts a population of approximately 1.7 million. With one of the most rapidly developing city centres in Africa, Lusaka is situated in a prolific farming region and is Zambia’s administrative, financial and commercial centre. It is believed that with proper and effective economic improvements, Lusaka (as well as Zambia as a whole) will advance significantly. Lusaka is home to a varied community of foreigners, many of whom work in the aid industry, as well as diplomats, representatives of religious societies and several business people.

Lusaka was named after it’s headman, and is situated at Manda Hill; close by to where the National Assembly building is established. The area was extended by European settlers in 1905 with the construction of the railway. During 1935, Lusaka was selected to replace Livingstone as the capital of the British colony of northern Rhodesia, due to it’s relatively central location on the railway. After the union of northern and southern Rhodesia in 1953, Lusaka became the heart of the independence movement, resulting in the formation of the Republic of Zambia. Zambia became the 9th African state to gain independence from the British colonialists in 1964, following which President Kaunda came into power, with Lusaka as the country’s capital.

Accommodation Two Per Room: Eureka Camp or Pioneer Lodge
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Livingstone to Lusaka
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10 - 11

Lusaka – Petauke – South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

Today, we’ll journey through the bustling city of Lusaka before heading east towards Petauke. We’ll traverse the Great East Road, a vital link between Zambia and Malawi, crossing the mighty Luangwa River along the way. This scenic route offers a glimpse into rural Zambia, with its charming villages and vibrant communities.

The next day we depart from Petauke to the South Luangwa National Park border where we make our way to the banks of the Luangwa River. A stop at Mulberry Mongoose is in order to view their local jewellery and curios, which are made from organic materials derived from the African bush by local women from South Luangwa. It is in the Chipata area that we see a great deal of cotton production and we also see a glimpse of the creativity of African culture. Enjoy a cold drink and enjoy one of the finest sunsets on the banks of the Luangwa River.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Chimwemwe Executive Lodge, Two per Permanent Tents: Wildlife Camp (South Luangwa)
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Lusaka to Petauke, Petauke to South Luangwa National Park
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2
Included Highlight: Mulberry Mongoose Curio Visit

Day 12

South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

In the morning you will have a chance to embark on an (optional) game drive or during the dry season (April to December) you can join one of the iconic walking safaris on offer in the park. The South Luangwa National Park is well-known for its large population of leopard and hippo. We end the day with a sunset drive in the park and enjoy a sundowner. If you explore the park at night, you may have an opportunity to spot the nocturnal animals you rarely see during the day.

Accommodation: Two Per Permanent Tents: Wildlife Camp
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Sunset Game Drive in South Luangwa National Park
Optional Activities: Safari Walk (seasonal) or Morning Game Drive in South Luangwa or Mulberry Mongoose Jewellery Workshop

Day 13 - 14

South Luangwa National Park – Lake Malawi, Malawi

As we board our truck this morning, we head for Malawi, the warm heart of Africa. It is our intention to spend the evening on the shores of Lake Malawi, the southernmost lake in the East African Rift System. There are more species of fish in this lake than in any other lake in the world, since it is one of the ten largest in the world. The lake extends over 500 kilometers along the western frontier of Malawi, making it one of the ten largest lakes in the world. This natural wonder is our home for the night.

Our focus today is on the lake, and we have reserved this day for you to relax on the shore.  During your free time, you may enjoy reading a book, taking in the sun, or taking part in one of the many recreational activities available. An optional hike to the nearby Dwanbazi Waterfall may be arranged with a local guide if you wish. This waterfall offers a breath-taking view from its summit and is just a 30-minute drive from Ngala Beach Lodge. There is also the possibility that we will have the opportunity to take a refreshing swim in the pristine waters surrounded by the lush greenery and natural splendor of the surrounding area, depending on the weather.

Accommodation: Two per room: Ngala Beach Lodge
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2
Route: South Luangwa National Park to Lake Malawi
Optional Activity: Waterfall Hike
Border Post: Zambia: Chipata / Nwami, Tel: + 265 622 1652, Open: 06h00-18h00, Malawi: Mchinji, Tel: +265 124 2217, Open: 06h00-18h00

Day 15

Lake Malawi – Chitimba Beach, Malawi

Accommodation: Two per room: Chitimba Lodge
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Central Lake Malawi to North Lake Malawi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 16

Chitimba Beach – Mbeya Region, Tanzania

As we leave this morning, we will travel further north into Tanzania in order to reach the Utengule Coffee Lodge, where we will spend the night.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Utengule Coffee Lodge
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Border Post: Malawi: Songwe (no telephone), Open: 06h00-18h00, Tanzania (Kasumulu border): Chi’zumulu, Tel: +265 15 357 207, Open: 06h00-18h00

Day 17

Mbeya Region – Iringa, Tanzania

Departing from Mbeya, a stop will be made at a local coffee plantation, where we will be able to see how coffee beans are grown and harvested as well as try some samples before making our way to Iringa. We ascend out of the Great Rift Valley through some remarkable mountain passes, passing enormous tea plantations in the highlands before eventually arriving at our stop in Iringa.

Tanzania experiences tropical temperatures and, in the highlands, the climate ranges between 10 and 20 degrees Celsius during the cold and hot seasons respectively. The rest of the country has temperatures that seldom drops lower than 20 degrees Celsius. The hottest season is between November and February, reaching temperatures of over 30 degrees, whilst the coldest season occurs between May and August, dropping to below 15 degrees.

Tanzania is a mountainous region in the northeast, where Africa’s tallest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro, is located. The Great Lakes of Lake Victoria (Africa’s biggest lake) and Lake Tanganyika (Africa’s deepest lake, famous for its unique fish species) are to the north and west. Central Tanzania comprises of a vast plateau complete with savannas and fruitful land. The eastern shore is hot and humid, with the exotic island of Zanzibar situated just offshore.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Kisolanza Farm
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Mbeya Region to Iringa
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Morning Coffee Plantation Visit

Day 18

Iringa – Mikumi, Tanzania

As the day begins, witness the breathtaking beauty of the Baobab Valley, a surreal landscape adorned with ancient, towering baobab trees. Capture unforgettable memories with a group photo against the backdrop of these iconic trees, standing tall against the African savannah. Continue your journey towards Mikumi National Park, the fourth largest park in Tanzania and part of the expansive 75,000 square kilometer wilderness centered around Selous. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Mikumi, exploring its diverse landscapes and encountering fascinating wildlife. Enhance your experience by booking a game drive in Mikumi National Park, discovering the park’s rich biodiversity and witnessing the diverse species that call this region home.

Accommodation: Two Per Room Camp Bastian or Atupele Camp
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Iringa to Mikumi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Activity: Mikumi Game Drive

Day 19 - 21

Mikumi – Dar es Salaam/Bagamoyo – Stone Town (Zanzibar), Tanzania

A variety of cultural tours and safaris are available to you today in Mikumi National Park.

We’ll spend the night at our accommodation, preparing for our journey to Zanzibar Island the following morning.

We depart Dar es Salaam early in the morning to catch our ferry to Zanzibar Island. The hotel in Stone Town is our first stop after arriving at the ferry port.

Accommodation: Two Per Room Camp Bastian or Atupele Camp (Mikumi), Golden Tulip Dar City Centre or FireFly Lodge (Dar es Salaam / Bagamoyo), Maru Maru Hotel or Spice Palace (Stone Town)
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Mikumi to Dar es Salaam/Bagamoyo to Stone Town (Zanzibar)
Meals: Breakfast x3, Lunch x2, Dinner x1
Included Highlight: Zanzibar Excursion
Optional Activity: Mikumi National Park Safaris / Cultural Tours

Day 22

Stonetown – Zanzibar Beaches, Tanzania

Historically, this busy port has been a landmark on both the slave and spice trade routes. The day begins with a walk-through Stone Town, where we will discover well-known landmarks such as the birthplace of Freddy Mercury.  Following our tour of the city, we will travel by road to our base for the next two nights. A guided walking spice tour will be offered along the way before we arrive, which will take us through villages and spice plantations. During your visit, you will have the opportunity to observe first-hand how spice farm workers climb trees in search of specific plants and will also be able to purchase fresh spices directly from the farms themselves.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Zanzibar Bay or Amaan Bungalows or Nungwi Garden Boutique Hotel
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Stone Town to Zanzibar Beaches
Meals: Breakfast
Included Highlight: Stone Town walking city tour, Spice Tour

Day 23

Zanzibar Beaches, Tanzania

This is a free day for you to take advantage of the many attractions and activities available to you. Whatever you choose to do today, you will have ample opportunity to create some lasting memories on the island. The area offers a wide variety of attractions or you can simply relax on the beach.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Zanzibar Bay or Amaan Bungalows or Nungwi Garden Boutique Hotel
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Meals: Breakfast

Day 24 - 26

Bagamoyo/Moshi – Arusha – Karatu, Tanzania

In the morning, we bid farewell to the island and board the ferry back to Dar es Salaam. Following our arrival back at the port, we reunite with our truck and return to Bagamoyo, where we spend the night.

The journey north this morning will take us across the northern reaches of Tanzania, and our destination for the evening will be the bustling town of Arusha. Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Kilimanjaro are located in northern Tanzania.

The distance from Karatu to the Ngorongoro Crater is short, but we will spend most of the day en-route there. Our first stop will be at the Mto wa Mbu Market, which is located in the village of Mto wa Mbu before we arrive in Karatu. In addition to being well known for their unique red bananas, the town is also located on the main road leading directly to the Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area. As part of our 2-night excursion, our guide will provide a briefing tonight.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: FireFly Lodge or Weru Weru (Bagamoyo), Njiro Legacy (Arusha), Kudu Camp (Karatu)
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Zanzibar to Bagamoyo/Moshi to Arusha to Karatu
Meals: Breakfast x3, Lunch x2, Dinner x3
Included Highlight: Mto wa Mbu Market (Karatu)

Day 27

Karatu – Ngorongoro Crater & Serengeti National Park Excursion, Tanzania

In the morning, we will climb into 4×4 safari vehicles and taken from our camp to the Ngorongoro Crater. In search of the animals roaming the plains, we will spend most of our day exploring the Ngorongoro Crater floor. The afternoon will bring us to our overnight camp in the Seronera region of the Serengeti National Park. We will enjoy the sights and sounds of nature passing right in front of your meru style tent this evening, while sipping on a cold beverage in the camp, surrounded by a spectacular landscape and abundant wildlife.

Accommodation: Two Per Permanent Tent: Seronera Private Tented Camp or Serengeti Wilderness Camp Central
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Karatu to Seronera via Ngorongoro Crater
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: 4×4 Excursion to Ngorongoro Crater and afternoon drive into Seronera

Day 28 - 29

Serengeti – Arusha, Tanzania

This morning we wake up early and spend our time game driving in the Serengeti. One of the most famous Game Reserves in Africa – The park is well known for its abundance of wildlife, and we will spend the majority of the day hunting for these creatures.

We make our way back to Arusha and we have the opportunity to swap tales of our wonderful experiences of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.

Accommodation: Two Per Permanent Tent Seronera Private Tented Camp or Serengeti Wilderness Camp Central (Serengeti), Two Per Room Njiro Legacy (Arusha)
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Seronera (Serengeti National Park) to Arusha
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2
Included Highlight: Full day game Drive through Seronera, Serengeti National Park
Pre-Bookable Optional Activity: Hot Air Balloon Safari (pre-booking required, subject to availability & weather conditions)

Day 30 - 31

Arusha – Nairobi – Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

This morning, we cross the border into Kenya, and we carry onto Nairobi where we spend the night. Your afternoon is at leisure for repacking your bags in preparation for your excursion into the Masai Mara. A safari type vehicle is used to travel to the Masai Mara, rather than a truck. It is therefore recommended that you pack a small overnight bag for your trip. There are several items you will need for camping, including your towel, clothes, toiletries, and other essentials.

We’ll depart from Nairobi and head to the world-renowned Masai Mara National Reserve. Here, we’ll embark on safari adventures in open-top vehicles, exploring the vast plains and encountering diverse wildlife. Please pack a small overnight bag with essentials such as towels, toiletries, and camping gear.

Accommodation: Two Per Room Hotel Boulevard (Nairobi), Permanent Tents: Masai Mara Excursion (no website available)
Facilities: En-suite facilities (Nairobi), Shared Ablutions (Masai Mara) Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Arusha to Nairobi to Masai Mara
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x1
Included Highlight: Masai Mara Excursion
Border Post: Tanzania: Namanga, no telephone number, Open: 24hrs, Kenya: Namanga, Tel: +254 455 32002, Open: 24 hrs

Day 32

Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

The Masai Mara is famous for being the Greatest Wildlife Reserve of Africa, renowned for the abundance of lion, the Great Wildebeest Migration and the Masai people who are well-known for their distinguishing customs and dressing styles. The Masai Mara is by far one of Africa’s most popular and beautiful safari destinations. We spend the entire day game driving through the Mara.

Accommodation: Permanent Tents: Masai Mara Excursion (no website available)
Facilities: Shared Ablutions
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Masai Mara Excursion

Day 33

Masai Mara – Lake Nakuru National Park, Kenya

We depart from the Masai Mara and journey north to Lake Nakuru where we devote our afternoon to game driving. First established as a bird sanctuary, Lake Nakuru was developed into a National Park in 1968. White rhino roam frequently through the savanna area that surrounds the lake, providing us with incredible photo opportunities.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Waterbuck Hotel 
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Masai Mara Reserve to Lake Nakuru National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Lake Nakuru National Park Game Drive

Day 34

Nakuru – Jinja, Uganda

We say goodbye to Lake Nakuru and make our way across the Equator towards Uganda’s second largest city – Jinja. Jinja is famous for being the place where the Nile River flows out of Lake Victoria and initiates the 6695 kilometre adventure to Egypt and finally, the Mediterranean Sea.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Kalagala Falls Tented & Overland Camp 
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Lake Nakuru – Jinja
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Border Post: Kenya: Busia +254 20 2649524; Open 24 hours, Uganda: Busia; +256 414 423 2645; Open 24 hours

Day 35

Jinja – Masindi, Uganda

We make our way to Kampala early and head towards Murchison Falls National Park. Murchison Falls is a waterfall found on the course of the great Nile and located within the National Park. The park is recognised as one of the best National Parks in Uganda. Once settled, you will be briefed on the activities to take place on the next day.

Accommodation Two per room: Kabalega Resort Hotel
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Jinja to Masindi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlights: Ziwa Rhino Walk

Day 36

Masindi – Budongo Central Forest Reserve, Uganda

Today, we’ll head to Budongo Forest, a vast mahogany forest and a haven for chimpanzees. This is home to the largest number of chimpanzees in Uganda. We’ll embark on a guided chimpanzee trekking experience, led by experienced guides who will help us navigate the dense forest and locate these fascinating primates. In addition to the chimpanzee trek, we’ll also enjoy a scenic boat cruise on the park’s waterways, offering opportunities to spot various bird species and other wildlife.

Note: As the Chimp trekking is limited to 12 guests per trek, should there be more than 12 guests on a tour and thus split over two days. Therefore, you may find that you will first do the boat cruise activity followed by the chimp trekking the following day or vice versa – Please allow for flexibility.

Accommodation: Two per room: Kabalega Resort
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlights: Nile River Boat Cruise
Optional Activities: Chimp Trekking*
Please Note: Chimpanzee trekking is an optional activity with an additional cost of USD140 – USD240 per person. While not mandatory, it is highly recommended for those seeking a unique wildlife encounter. If you choose not to participate, there may be limited activities available during this time.

Day 37 - 38

Masindi – Lake Kikorongo – Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda

We leave Masindi in the morning and are then transferred to the edges of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Our overnight this evening is located at the top of a hill overlooking Lake Kikorongo.

Making our way across the Equator another time, we make our way to a small, but beautiful lake with steep banks and plentiful birdlife, Lake Bunyonyi which is surrounded by mountains and is most famous for its abundant otter population and picturesque surrounds. We take this day to unwind in this stunning spot the evening prior to our final drive to the gorillas.

Accommodation: Two per room: Simba Safari Camp (Lake Kikorongo), Lake Bunyonyi Overland Resort (Lake Bunyonyi)
Facilities: En-suite Facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Masindi to Lake Kikorongo to Lake Bunyonyi
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2

Day 39

Lake Bunyonyi – Gorilla Trekking, Uganda

The mountain gorilla is an extremely endangered animal and though the precise numbers of its population vary, it is believed that there are just around 650 of these gentle giants remaining. Paying a visit to the gorillas is a lovely way to support their future on earth as the money you spend on your gorilla permit goes towards their protection. A crucial part of conserving the gorillas that are still left lies within the community development work. As local communities adjust their attitudes toward nature and wildlife and begin to protect rather than poach, the future of the beautiful mountain gorilla looks brighter.

Because permits granted to visit the gorillas are extremely limited, we will require some flexibility on both our travel itinerary and the location where we will actually get to see them. The mountain gorillas reside in man-made borders, therefore, their range includes Uganda, Rwanda and the DRC. Whenever it is possible, we will be making use of the National Park in Uganda, but this is dependent upon the availability of permits. If we do not manage to obtain permits to go on our Gorilla Trek, then all passengers will be told beforehand that our journey will travel to Rwanda or the DRC.

On our free day spent in Bunyonyi, we will have the chance to partake in some Optional Activities. You can also opt to go hiking or to explore the region on mountain bike.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Lake Bunyonyi Overland Resort
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Lake Bunyonyi National Park to the starting point of the gorilla trek (in safari or smaller vehicles)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Activities: Rwanda Day Trip, Motorboat trips (Islands)
Pre-Bookable Optional Activities: Gorilla Trekking**, Golden Monkey Trekking

Day 40

Lake Bunyonyi – Gorillas, Uganda

Although two days have been allocated for the Gorilla Trekking, only one day will be spent on the trek. The other day is there to provide time in which to obtain permits and to allow the entire group to trek if there are more than 6 passengers on the tour. We travel to a village from the Bunyonyi Resort, and here you have an opportunity to be educated by the cultures of the people in the village.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Lake Bunyonyi Overland Resort
Facilities: En-suites facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Activity: Gorilla Trekking**, Pygmy Visit, Rwanda Day Tour

Day 41

Lake Bunyonyi – Lake Mburo, Uganda

Following our visit to Lake Bunyonyi, we will visit Lake Mburo, one of the most beautiful lakes in Uganda. There are rolling hills, open grasslands, and patches of woodland surrounding Lake Mburo, which lies in the Ankole sub-region of Uganda, near the town of Mbarara. The lake covers approximately 260 square kilometers and is surrounded by a wide range of vegetation. Lake Mburo National Park is a bird watcher’s paradise with over 350 recorded species of birds. Numerous bird species can be found in the park thanks to its diverse ecosystems, which include acacia woodlands, savannahs, and wetlands. One of the most unusual species is the shoebill stork, a rare bird that has an odd appearance.

We depart the beautiful Lake Bunyonyi for another of Uganda’s beautiful water bodies – Lake Mburo. Lake Mburo is situated in the Ankole subregion of Uganda, near the town of Mbarara, and spans an area of approximately 260 square kilometers and is surrounded by rolling hills, open grasslands, and patches of woodland. With over 350 recorded bird species, Lake Mburo National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers. The park’s diverse ecosystems, which include acacia woodlands, savannahs, and wetlands, provide optimal habitats for numerous bird species, including the
rare and odd-looking shoebill stork.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Leopard Rest Camp
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Lake Bunyonyi to Lake Mburo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Pre-Bookable Optional Activities: Various Walks (birdwatching, sundowner), National Park Boat Ride, National Park Biking Safari, National Park Night Game Drive

Day 42

Lake Mburo – Jinja, Uganda

Before we head off to Jinja and our final night in Uganda you have the opportunity to participate in the many optional activities such as swimming, quad biking, kayaking and rafting. For those who are less inclined to the water sports, you can enjoy horse riding or quad biking on the dry land.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Kalagala Falls Tented and Overland Camp
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Mburo to Jinja
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Crossing of the Equator
Pre-Bookable Optional Activities: Whitewater rafting, bungee jumping, river bugging, Source of the Nile cruise

Day 43

Jinja, Uganda

Those who are adventurous and those who are not so adventurous can choose from a variety of optional activities. This day will be at your leisure, and your guide will assist you in planning your activities.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Kalagala Falls Tented and Overland Camp
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Pre-Bookable Optional Activities: Whitewater rafting, bungee jumping, river bugging, Source of the Nile cruise

Day 44

Jinja – Eldoret, Kenya

Returning to Kenya we visit Eldoret, the country’s 5th largest city. At Eldoret, 2100 metres above sea level, the Great Rift Valley still dominates the region’s geography.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Naiberi River Camp
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Jinja to Eldoret
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Border Post: Kenya: Malaba +254 20 2649524; Open 24 hours, Uganda: Malaba; +256 779 201 347; Open 24 hours

Day 45

Eldoret – Nairobi, Kenya

Upon our return to the biggest city in the East African area, Nairobi, we exchange stories and experiences as well as contact details, before your tour comes to an end. Please speak to your travel consultant if you would like to extend your stay in Nairobi.

Accommodation: Own arrangements / Post tour accommodation can be booked through us
Route: Eldoret to Nairobi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

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.