45 Day Johannesburg to Nairobi Overland Adventure (Camping)

Day 1

Johannesburg – Palapye, Botswana

Our tour begins in Johannesburg, we travel through the North-West Province and reach the border with Botswana. Our overnight stop is located on the Trans-Kalahari Highway after we have completed border formalities.

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: Camp: 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

Day 4 - 5

Khwai Conservation Area – Moremi – Nata, Botswana

We are spending the majority of today on safari in the Moremi Game Reserve in search of the creatures that inhabit the plains. The roads in this wilderness area will be bumpy as we traverse them in our 4×4 vehicles. Our goal is to see as many species of fauna and flora as possible in a variety of habitats, including wetlands, open water, grasslands, and savannah woodlands. As we arrive back at Khwai this evening, we are excited to be able to compare and share the amazing sightings from our safari.

Khwai and Nata are both crossed by the Botswanan salt pans today on the 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: Camp: Khwai Tented Camp (no website available) (Moremi), Elephant Sands or Nata Lodge or Planet Baobab or Gweta Lodge 
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Moremi Game Reserve, Khwai Conservation Area to Nata (± 6-8 hours)
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2
Included Highlights: Full Day Game Drive Moremi Game Reserve, Salt Pans viewpoint (seasonal access dependant)

Day 6

Nata – Chobe National Park, Botswana

Our journey starts from the Kalahari sands of Nata and ends at Kasane, where we have lunch and a quick siesta 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.

Accommodation: Camp: Thebe River Safaris or Kwalape Safari Lodge 
Facilities: Shared Ablutions 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 Highlights: Chobe National Park Boat Cruise

Day 7 - 8

Kasane – Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe – Livingstone, Zambia

In the morning, we cross the border into Zimbabwe and travel the short distance to Victoria Falls with the memories of our wildlife encounters firmly etched in our minds. During your visit to Victoria Falls today, you will have the opportunity to experience the spectacular waterfalls, known locally as Mosi-oa Tunya (the smoke that thunders). While much of today is dedicated to viewing the mighty Zambezi River as it drops into the Batoka Gorge below, the bustling adventure town of Victoria Falls also offers a range of optional activities for those wanting a dose of adrenaline in the afternoon. Additionally, craft markets and coffee shops are available for those seeking a more relaxed travel experience.

The next day you can take advantage of the many activities that are available in Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) and Livingstone (Zambia), offering the ideal opportunity to go on the adventure that best suits your interests. Whether rafting the mighty Zambezi River or enjoying a flight over the falls, this is your day to enjoy the many attractions on offer in Victoria Falls. As your tour continues tomorrow from Livingstone, your accommodation for tonight has been booked in Livingstone. You can however spend the day in Victoria Falls and transfer over to Livingstone in the late afternoon. The transfer from Victoria Falls to Livingstone is included in your tour. Depending on your preference, you can book an early morning (08:00) or late afternoon (16:00) transfer. At the time of booking, please inform your booking agent of your preferred time.

Accommodation: Two Per Room: Shearwater Explorers Village or Bayete Guest Lodge (Day 1), Victoria Falls Waterfront, Livingstone, Zambia (Day 2)
Facilities: En-suite facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation providers for a full list of the facilities offered
Meals: Breakfast x2
Route: Kasane to Victoria Falls
Pre-Bookable Optional Activities: Chobe National Park Game Drive, Victoria Falls Historic 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
Optional Activity: Victoria Falls National Park Entry
Border Post: Botswana: Kazangula Road, Tel: +267 62 50320 / Open: 06h00-20h00, Zimbabwe: Kazangula Road, Open: 06h00-20h00

Day 9

Livingstone – Lusaka, Zambia

Before heading off on a long day of travel, we take the opportunity to catch a last glimpse of the mighty falls before setting out early from Livingstone. During our journey through Zambia, we observe first-hand the splendour of East Africa’s markets, bustling villages, and rural scenes from the window of our truck. Upon arrival, we enjoy a prepared meal while our guides provide us with a briefing about our upcoming activities.

Accommodation: Camp: Eureka Camp or Pioneer Lodge
Facilities: Shared Ablutions 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 heart of Zambia, traversing the Great East Road, a vital link between Lusaka and Malawi. This scenic route offers a glimpse into rural Zambian life, showcasing villages, subsistence farms, and the stunning landscapes of the region. We’ll cross the mighty Luangwa River, experiencing a stark contrast to the developed world we often inhabit.

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: Camp: Chimwemwe Executive Lodge (Petauke), Camp: Wildlife Camp (South Luangwa)
Facilities: Shared facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Lusaka to 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: Camp: Wildlife Camp
Facilities: Shared 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
Pre-Bookable Optional Activities: Safari Walk (seasonal), Morning Game Drive in South Luangwa, 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 Hotel. 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: Camp: Ngala Beach Lodge (No Website Available)
Facilities: Shared facilities Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: South Luangwa National Park to Lake Malawi
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2
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

After our overnight on the shores of Lake Malawi, we will be back on the road for most of the day. Enjoy the changing landscapes as we travel northwards. We arrive at our accommodation in time to relax and enjoy a refreshing drink while watching the sun set over the water.

Accommodation: Camp: Chitimba Beach Camp
Facilities: Shared Ablutions 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: Camp: Utengule Coffee Lodge
Facilities: Shared Bungalow with shared Ablutions 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: 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 north east, 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 savannahs and fruitful land. The eastern shore is hot and humid, with the exotic island of Zanzibar situated just offshore.

Accommodation: Camp: Kisolanza Farmhouse
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Mbeya to Iringa
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Morning Coffee Plantation Visit

Day 18

Iringa – Mikumi, Tanzania

We journey to Mikumi National Park this morning. The Baobab Valley in Tanzania is our first stop. There is something mesmerizing about this landscape dotted with ancient, towering baobab trees that have endured the test of time. With their striking shadows cast against the African savannah, these iconic trees create a surreal and breath-taking scene, which is the perfect backdrop for a group photograph. After reaching Mikumi, we explore the 75 000 square kilometer Selous Game Reserve, which is Africa’s most extensive game reserve, and ranks as the fourth largest park in the country. The Mikumi National Park offers the opportunity to book a game drive today.

Accommodation: Camp Camp Bastian or Atupele Camp
Facilities: Shared Ablutions 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 – Stone Town (Zanzibar), Tanzania

As part of today’s activities, you will have the opportunity to book additional safaris in Mikumi National Park or participate in a variety of cultural tours.

The following morning, we wake up early to catch our ferry to Zanzibar Island after spending the night in Dar es Salaam.

The hotel in Stone Town is our first stop after arriving at the ferry port. Enjoy your first evening on the island exploring Stone Town’s narrow streets or enjoy the famous night food market with their wide variety of different seafood available.

Accommodation: Camp Camp Bastian or Atupele Camp (Mikumi), Golden Tulip Dar City Centre or FireFly Lodge (Dar es Salaam), Maru Maru Hotel or Spice Palace (Stone Town)
Facilities: Shared Ablutions (Mikumi) / En-suite Facilities (Dar es Salaam & Stone Town) Please visit the website of the accommodation providers for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Mikumi to Dar es Salaam, Dar es Salaam 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

Stone Town – 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. The day is filled with water sports. No matter what 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

Zanzibar Beaches – 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: Camp: FireFly Lodge or Weru Weru (Bagamoyo), Njiro Legacy (Arusha), Kudu Camp (Karatu)
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation providers for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam by ferry, Dar es Salaam to Bagamoyo, Bagamoyo to Arusha, 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 (Seronera) Excursion, Tanzania

In the morning, we will climb into 4×4 safari vehicles 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
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 (Serengeti), Camp: Njiro Legacy (Arusha)
Facilities: En-suite facilities (Serengeti), Shared Ablutions (Arusha) Please visit the website of the accommodation providers 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 Activities: 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.

In the early morning, we leave Nairobi and travel to the Masai Mara, a world-renowned reserve for its abundant wildlife and scenic splendor.

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 Maasai 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
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
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 6,695 kilometre adventure to Egypt and finally, the Mediterranean Sea.

Accommodation: Camp: 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: Lake Nakuru to 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 – Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda

We make our way to Kampala early and head to 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 recognized 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 Camp: Kabalega Resort Hotel
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Jinja to Masindi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Activity: Ziwa Rhino Walk

Day 36

Masindi – Budongo Central Forest Reserve, Uganda

Today you will participate in a Chimpanzee trekking in the Budongo Forest as well as a boat cruise in the Murchison Falls Nation Park, which is known as the biggest Mahogany forest in the whole of East Africa. This is home to the largest number of chimpanzees in Uganda. A game drive will take you through the forest in search of the chimps and you can also spot 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 game drive activity followed by the Chimp trekking the following day or vice versa – Please allow for flexibility.

Accommodation: Camp: Kabalega Resort
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Nile River Cruise
Optional Activity: 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

Masindi – Lake Kikorongo, 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.

Accommodation: Camp: Simba Safari Camp
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Masindi to Lake Kikorongo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 38 - 39

Lake Kikorongo – Lake Bunyonyi (Gorilla Trekking), Uganda

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.

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 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: Camp: Lake Bunyonyi Overland Resort
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Lake Kikorongo to Lake Bunyonyi, Lake Bunyonyi National Park to the starting point of the gorilla trek (in safari or smaller vehicles)
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2
Pre-Bookable Optional Activities: Gorilla Trekking, Golden Monkey Trekking
Optional Activities: Rwanda Day Trip, Motorboat trips (Islands)

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: Camp: Lake Bunyonyi Overland Resort
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: Gorilla Trekking, Golden Monkey Trekking
Optional Activities: Rwanda Day Trip, Motor boat trips (Islands)

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.

Accommodation: Camp: Leopard Rest Camp
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Lake Bunyonyi to 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: Camp: 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, Kayaking, 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: Camp: 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, Kayaking, 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: Camp: 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.