40 Day African Adventure: From Cape Town to the Serengeti’s Wild Heart

Arrive at your leisure and kick off your adventure with an optional welcome dinner. Maximize your experience by pre-booking the thrilling South African Wine Tour and Tasting. Consider extending your stay by a night to fully immerse yourself in this early-morning adventure. Please note: Due to the tour’s timing, you might miss the initial welcome meeting. Fear not! Your dedicated guide will leave a detailed message guiding you to the next day’s gathering.

Be ready to hit the road in the overland vehicle and explore the Western Cape’s breathtaking scenery on our way to the !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre. Here you will learn about the history and culture of the ancient San people. We’ll arrive at the campsite in the afternoon and have some free time to explore the area.

Our journey takes us northward to the South African side of the Orange (Gariep) River. Following camp setup, we indulge in some early evening swimming, unwinding and maybe even some river canoeing (optional). Or just sit by the banks and watch the water wind its way to some heavy rapids.

Today we cross the border into Namibia, so be sure to have your correct visa ready. We then travel through to the magnificent Fish River Canyon, the biggest in the continent and the second largest in the world. Take some time to explore the canyon rim and admire the dramatic sunset as it disappears behind the edge of the canyon. After snapping some amazing pics, we head back to camp for the rest of the evening.

Take a seat back in the overland vehicle and head north to the Namib Desert along lengthy, winding roads. Enjoy the imposing red sand dunes of Sossusvlei, which appear to climb toward the sky in the middle of nowhere, as you arrive and set up camp in the late afternoon.

Begin your day with a breathtaking sunrise atop the iconic Dune 45. Embark on an optional adventure to the surreal Deadvlei clay pan before exploring the hidden depths of Sesriem Canyon. Discover the canyon’s geological wonders and its ability to sustain life. If time permits, enjoy a scenic detour to the charming town of Solitaire. Conclude your day in the desert with an optional “Namib Desert Walk.” This enlightening experience delves into the Bushmen’s survival techniques, the geology of sand dunes, and the desert’s fascinating wildlife, culminating in a stunning desert sunset.

Discover the Thrill of Swakopmund! Journey through the arid mountain passes and vast expanse of the Namib Desert to reach the adrenaline-packed town of Swakopmund. Spend two nights exploring this vibrant coastal city and indulge in the numerous optional activities it offers.

Take a day off and visit Swakopmund. Try things like sandboarding and skydiving. Take a breathtaking fly above the Skeleton Coast for an even greater adventure. You can reserve your skydive in advance via your travel agency.

Enjoy your exploration of the granite peaks of Spitzkoppe, Namibia’s Matterhorn. Upon arrival, take advantage of your free time to explore the area on foot and marvel at the breathtaking night sky, ideal for stargazing.

Immerse yourself in the otherworldly landscapes of the Etosha National Park, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. As you journey towards your camp, embark on a thrilling safari drive, witnessing the park’s diverse animal inhabitants.

After sunset, gather around the well-lit watering holes near your campsite to observe nocturnal wildlife. Enjoy the freedom of free time and consider an exhilarating night safari in an open vehicle for an unforgettable experience.

Embark on a full-day safari drive through Etosha National Park, a sanctuary for over 100 diverse mammal species. During the dry season (May to October), the park’s waterholes become a wildlife haven, offering some of the most concentrated wildlife viewing experiences globally.

We head south and make our way to the Waterberg Plateau. Here you have the afternoon to spend at your leisure. The Waterberg Plateau offers scenic hiking trails so feel free to spend the afternoon hiking, alternatively spend your afternoon unwinding next by the pool.

We stop for lunch at Penduka Village Restaurant and Shop, just outside Windhoek, where you can stretch you legs and enjoy refreshments. After lunch at the restaurant, we make our way to Windhoek via the Namibian countryside.

Cross the border from Namibia into Botswana and journey eastward into the heart of the Kalahari Desert to reach D’kar. Immerse yourself in the local San Bushmen’s way of life by participating in an optional bushman walk, witnessing their remarkable adaptations to this challenging terrain.

Experience the warm hospitality of the San Bushmen at Dqae Qare San Lodge & Camp, your home base for this unforgettable adventure.

As you continue your journey towards Maun, board the overland vehicle and enjoy the scenic drive. Upon arrival, relax and unwind during your free time before establishing your campsite with the group.

Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the Okavango Delta on this overnight excursion. Engage in birdwatching and glide through the tranquil waters in a traditional mokoro (dugout canoe) to reach your rustic bush camp. Set up camp and embark on a wildlife walk, exploring the surrounding area’s diverse ecosystem. As the sun sets, gather around the campfire for a relaxing sundowner, soaking in the serene ambiance of the Delta.

Start your day with a captivating safari walk, exploring the wildlife and natural beauty of the Okavango Delta. Return to Maun via a serene mokoro ride. Board the overland vehicle and continue your journey towards the enchanting baobab trees of Gweta. Upon arrival, enjoy your free time to explore this unique and picturesque location.

Embark on a journey north from Gweta to Kasane. Enjoy an optional river cruise through Chobe National Park, a renowned wildlife sanctuary, before setting up camp under a starlit sky.

Explore Chobe National Park, renowned for its impressive elephant population, the largest in Southern Africa. Pre-book the Chobe River Sunset Cruise during checkout, or through your Global Connection Officer or travel agent.

Choose to embark on an early morning safari drive before crossing the border from Botswana to Zimbabwe. Indulge in a traditional lunch at the Lusumpuko Women’s Club. Continue your journey to the captivating town of Victoria Falls, an ideal base for exploring the majestic falls and participating in thrilling activities. Consider pre-booking the Chobe National Park Safari Drive to embark on an early morning adventure through the park before crossing the border at the Kazungula border post.

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.

Enjoy a full day of independent exploration in the Victoria Falls area. Discover the region’s diverse offerings, including exhilarating activities such as whitewater rafting, scenic helicopter flights, or even bungee jumping with the majestic falls as your backdrop.

Buckle up and depart early at around 6am as you cross the border from Zimbabwe into Zambia. Today’s journey is a long one, travelling along rough and bumpy roads to reach a private farm located 29 km (18 mi) outside Zambia’s capital. It’s a challenging drive, but a rewarding one—proof that overland travel is all part of the adventure. On arrival, step out to stretch your legs and take in the sight of zebras, buffalo, and antelope roaming freely across the property. Celebrate the day’s achievement with a cold drink at the camp bar or unwind by the pool as you settle in for the evening.

Rise and shine as today’s journey begins. With plenty of ground to cover, expect an early departure and a late arrival. Make the most of the day on the road by getting to know your fellow travellers, swap stories, share a few laughs, or simply sit back and enjoy some quiet reflection as the landscape rolls by. Travel through the heart of the Zambian countryside before reaching your campsite, beautifully set along the banks of the Luangwa River, where the day’s journey comes to an end.

Today you head to South Luangwa National Park. Once you arrive, the day is yours to enjoy in one of Zambia’s premier wildlife areas. Choose from a range of optional activities, including a seasonal walking safari, a night game drive, or a visit to a nearby local village. However you choose to spend your time, relax, stay present, and let South Luangwa impress you in its own unique way.

Enjoy another day immersed in Africa’s wilderness, with the option to join a morning game drive. Keep your camera ready as you look out for giraffes, elephants, and Cape buffalo in this wildlife-rich region, known for some of the largest populations of these animals. Afterwards, stop for lunch and visit the Tribal Textiles Market & Courtyard, a local craft workshop. In the afternoon, continue the journey onward to Chipata.

Cross the border into Malawi and journey to the picturesque Lake Malawi, affectionately known as the “Lake of Stars.” Spend the next four nights basking in the tranquility of its shores. Enjoy leisurely beach walks, refreshing swims, and snorkeling in this stunning paradise. Kindly note that adhering to conservative dress standards is recommended in public areas. Shoulders and knees should be covered; however, within the camp boundaries, you are free to wear beach attire.

Wake up to birdsong and sunshine on the shores of Lake Malawi, with the clear waters inviting you in. Spend the day enjoying this beautiful setting, take a swim, explore the shoreline, snorkel in the shallows, or join an optional village walk to nearby Tonga Village for a glimpse into local life. This evening, the group will be welcomed into a local home for a traditional dinner, before settling in for the night under the stars.

Travel north today to another stunning spot along the shores of Lake Malawi. The journey showcases Africa’s diverse landscapes, from sweeping lakes to distant mountain backdrops. Arrive at scenic Chitimba Beach, where dramatic mountains rise behind you and Tanzania lies just across the water. Once settled, enjoy free time to get out on the lake or take a walk along the shoreline and soak up the views.

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.

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.

Depart Iringa in the morning and embark on a scenic drive through the Tanzanian countryside in the overland vehicle. As the day progresses, witness the breathtaking sight of the Indian Ocean’s blue waters emerging on the horizon. The group will spend the night in Dar es Salaam before continuing their journey to Zanzibar.

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.

Wake up in this island paradise and enjoy a full day at leisure in one of the world’s great cultural crossroads, where African and Arabian influences meet the Indian Ocean. Spend the day as you wish; go snorkelling, join a sailing trip, or simply relax on the beach. With its tropical setting, rich culture, and lively beach atmosphere, Zanzibar offers a memorable East African island experience.

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.

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 integral in 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.

Board the overland vehicle and embark on a scenic journey through diverse landscapes, culminating in Arusha. Keep your eyes peeled for breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro along the way. Arusha, nestled at the foot of the majestic Mount Meru, Africa’s fifth-highest peak, offers a stunning backdrop for your adventure. Utilize the afternoon to prepare a compact daypack for your upcoming three-day excursion to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. Remember to pack warm clothing for the chilly nights on the crater rim, along with ample insect repellent, sunscreen, and water. While bedding is provided, consider bringing your own sleeping bag for added comfort.

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.

Today you head into the Africa many have imagined, shaped by stories, films, and documentaries. Grab your camera and set off on a wildlife safari drive into one of the continent’s most iconic parks, the Serengeti. Look forward to abundant wildlife, endless golden plains dotted with acacia trees, and rivers home to hippos as you begin a three day, two night journey through the Serengeti and the remarkable Ngorongoro Crater.

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 this case the activity will take place today. In this case you will miss the morning game drive.

Today you experience “Africa’s Garden of Eden” up close with a descent on to the Ngorongoro Crater floor for a final safari. Make sure your camera is ready, as this is one of the best places in Africa to see wildlife, and a real highlight of the journey. The steep crater walls create a unique, self contained ecosystem made up of rich grasslands, swamps, acacia woodland, and Lake Makat. This diverse environment supports a remarkable concentration of animals, offering excellent game viewing throughout the morning. Later in the morning, leave the crater and begin the drive back to Arusha. Along the way, share stories from the adventure, sort through your favourite photos, or simply relax and enjoy the changing scenery as the journey comes to an end.

Depart Arusha at sunrise and travel overland to Nairobi, Kenya’s capital city. The tour concludes on arrival in Nairobi; to avoid any timing issues, please ensure onward travel is booked for the evening. Not quite ready to head home yet? You are welcome to extend your stay and spend a few extra days exploring Kenya and the surrounding region.