55 Day Cape Town to Nairobi and Gorillas Overland Adventure

You are free to arrive in Cape Town any time. Check in at the reception for when and where the pre-departure meeting happens with your group. You will then have free time to explore the Mother City. Take a few hours to discover this cosmopolitan city rich in history and extremely diverse in culture. The city boasts over three million residents and is the Western Cape’s capital. If you arrive early, you can spend time exploring the eclectic streets and cafes of Cape Town or take a trip on the city sightseeing bus.

Travel through the stunning landscapes of the Western Cape to the G Adventures-supported !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre. Learn about the history and culture of the ancient San people before continuing to the campsite, arriving in the afternoon with free time to relax or explore the area.

Our journey takes us northward to the South African side of the Orange 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.

Travel to Fish River Canyon today, the largest canyon in Africa. Stop along the rim to take in the vast views and watch the sunset over the dramatic landscape. Afterwards, continue to the nearby campsite, set up camp, and relax around the campfire under the night sky.

Sit back in the Lando and travel north along rugged desert roads to the Namib Desert. Arrive in the late afternoon and set up camp near Sossusvlei, where the towering red sand dunes rise dramatically from the surrounding desert landscape.

Start the day early with a sunrise climb up the iconic Dune 45. Later, visit the surreal clay pan of Deadvlei (optional) before exploring the shaded walls of Sesriem Canyon and learning about its unique geology and hidden water pools that support wildlife. If time allows, enjoy a scenic drive with a stop in the small desert town of Solitaire before returning to camp. In the evening, you may choose to join the optional Namib Desert Walk, an educational experience covering bushmen survival techniques, dune geology, and local wildlife, ending with a beautiful desert sunset.

Today gives you the opportunity to truly explore the Namib Desert as you spend hours traversing across this barren area and cross through a couple of arid mountain passes. Prior to your arrival in the adrenaline capital of Swakopmund, you will travel past Walvis Bay – the only town on the Namibian shoreline that contains a deep-sea harbour.

We spend two evenings in this region, where you will have time to explore the town drenched in history. Swakopmund is home to spectacular lunar landscapes, vibrant sunsets and many adrenaline-fueled activities.

Today is free for you to explore Swakopmund and its many activities on offer:

In the morning, we make our way north to the granite rocks of Spitzkoppe. You can explore on foot and spend the evening relaxing while looking up at the beautiful night’s sky! We will be roughing a bit in the bush tonight with long-drop toilets and no running water.

As we enter the park, we embark on a game drive through Etosha’s massive arid pan in search of elephant, antelope herds and lions gathered around the waterholes. Be sure to look out for Himba, Herero and Damara people along the way. They will be selling local arts; we will make stops to learn more about their products.

Once the sun has set, spend some time observing wildlife at the watering holes, located close to the secure camping space that is floodlit. Daytime game drive will be in the overland truck, with an optional open vehicle night game drive on offer with a naturalist guide.

Today is a full day of driving in the park in search of wildlife such as lions, rhinos, elephants, giraffes, blue wildebeest, springbok, zebra, and hyenas You get to see the expanse of the Etosha Pan as it stretches as far as the eye can see. Keep your camera ready today. We will return to our camp in the afternoon where you will get the opportunity to sit and relax at the floodlit waterhole for the evening.

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 your legs and enjoy refreshments. After lunch at the restaurant, we make our way to Windhoek via the Namibian countryside. Windhoek is Namibia’s capital city, with a population of around 230,000 and an altitude of 1,654 metres. During WW1, Windhoek was taken over by South African troops and was converted into a British dominion. Until Namibia’s independence in 1990, Windhoek was known as the capital of Southwest Africa.

As this is a combo tour, new travellers may be joining the group.

Leaving Windhoek this morning, we travel through the eastern regions of Namibia and cross into Botswana. We head into the heart of the Kalahari and arrive at camp in the early evening in time for an optional Bushman Walk. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to gain insight into the fascinating lifestyle of the San as they share their survival skills and in-depth knowledge of the Kalahari wilderness they call home.

You will also have the option to engage with the Bushmen around the campfire at night and experience their dance rituals, forming an intense spiritual experience. Their celebration of life and intriguing traditions will have you in awe.

We will leave Kalahari in the morning and drive across Botswana towards Maun arriving in the afternoon. For those of you who want to have a different view of the Okavango Delta you can take a 1 hour scenic flight over the vast wilderness and waterways with hippos below. Alternatively you can spend the afternoon at your own leisure or simply unwind at the campsite.

Upon our arrival in Maun, we pack and prepare for our one night two day excursion into the Okavango Delta. We encourage all tavellers to bring along a 5 litre bottle of water to take on the excursion – This should be plenty water for both drinking and cleaning purposes.

Maun is the gateway to the Okavango Delta and enjoys the reputation of being the premier town of Botswana. It was initially founded in 1915 by the Batawana, with the name ‘Maun’ meaning ‘place of reeds’. Though officially still a village, Maun is the fifth biggest town in Botswana. It is a diverse combination of contemporary structures and traditional huts. Maun is renowned as the tourism capital of Botswana and the administrative hub of the Ngamiland district. The town has swiftly grown from a rural town, stretching along the Thamalakane River. However, it still manages to maintain a rural atmosphere and local tribesmen continue to lead their cattle to the town to sell.

Today we embark on our thrilling adventure into the Delta as we travel in safari vehicles. We then board our mokoros (traditional dugout canoes) that carry us into the depths of the Delta. A few hours later we arrive at our bush camp for lunch and set up our tents. In the afternoon we will set off on a guided walk to spot wildlife in the bush while in the evening we will be joined by the locals for some singing and dancing around the campfire.

Our basic camp has a bush toilet with no shower, but you are surrounded by the beauty of nature, so it is well worth it.

The water rushing into the delta is extremely pure, mostly because of the lack of agriculture and industry along the Okavango River. It runs through the sand aquifers of the various delta islands and evaporates, leaving massive amounts of salt remaining. The Okavango Delta experiences seasonal flooding, which starts every mid-summer in the north and six months later in the south. During the peal floods, the islands of the Delta can be completely hidden beneath the water, making an appearance again at the end of the season.

Admire one final sunrise as you take part in a wildlife walk in the Delta before returning back to Maun. Take the trip back in your mokoro, followed by the safari drive before arriving around lunchtime. We hop back on the Overland Vehicle and head to  Gweta where we are treated to the unique experience of camping beneath beautiful old Baobab trees.

On arrival at our campsite, you can take a walk around and relish a nice shower or swim in the pool after a night in the bush.

The town of Gweta is located between the bigger towns of Nata and Maun, on the Makgadikgadi Pan’s rim.

We make our way to Chobe National Park, home to the biggest population of elephants in Southern Africa. In the afternoon, feel free to embark on an optional game drive through the park, or better yet, an optional Chobe River Sunset Boat Cruise. Either way relish the incredible wildlife inland or along the river’s banks.

Chobe National Park is one of the world’s last remaining large wilderness regions. In terms of size, the Chobe NP is the third biggest reserve in the country, sporting the most diverse and fantastic fauna and flora. The reserve has the biggest elephant population in the continent with the majority forming part of the largest surviving elephant concentrations in the world.

We will cross the border today as we venture into Zimbabwe at the Kazangula border post to see the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls. Please ensure you have the correct visa ready at the border. The Zambezi River has eroded a passage over time which has deepened into an exit gorge forming Victoria Falls. On arrival we sit down to enjoy a traditional meal courtesy of the Lusumpuko Women’s Club. Enjoy a farm-to-table style meal with local seasonal produce while supporting the local community.

You have the option of going on a Zambezi River Sunset Cruise to enjoy a picture-perfect sunset while sipping on cold drinks with a festive atmosphere – the perfect way to end a day. Or take a 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 depth below. You will possibly also be able to spot giraffes and elephants in the surrounding area.

As this is a combination trip, some travellers journey will come to an end while others may just be joining the adventure.

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.

Today is our third day in Victoria Falls where you can take part in any other adventures you have not experienced yet such as Ziplining, a Bridge Swing over the Zambezi or a Sunset Cruise.

As this is a combo tour, you may be saying goodbye to some friends made and hello to other new travel partners today. For this reason, there is also a welcome meeting today to brief you on the next leg of your travels.

Today’s lengthy adventure through rugged roads leads us to an exclusive game farm located around 29 kilometres (18 mi) 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.

While today’s journey may be a long one, there will be plenty of time to relax and socialise on the Lando as you travel through the Zambian countryside. Arrive at your campsite on the banks of the Luangwa River, with free time to settle in and enjoy the surroundings.

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.

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.

Cross into Malawi today and continue on to Lake Malawi, fondly known as the “Lake of Stars.” Spend four nights unwinding on its shores, with days free for beach walks, relaxed swims, and snorkelling in this stunning lakeside setting.

Enjoy a free day to explore Lake Malawi at your own pace. In the evening, the group will be welcomed into a local home for a traditional dinner before returning to camp to sleep under the stars.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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 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.

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.

Today marks the start of your three day, two night journey into Serengeti National Park and the wildlife rich Ngorongoro Crater. You will transfer into specialised 4×4 safari vehicles and meet your experienced driver guides, who will lead you through the region and maximise wildlife viewing opportunities. Each vehicle seats seven passengers and features sliding windows and a large pop up roof, ideal for photography and game viewing. These smaller vehicles are better suited to navigating the park terrain, and as a result the group will travel in several vehicles for the duration of the safari.

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.

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.

Depart Arusha in the morning and travel overland to Nairobi. Please note that this is a combination tour, and some of your fellow group members may be finishing their tour on this evening. There will be a border crossing so get your passports ready.

Enjoy a free day in Nairobi to explore, or relax, before heading off to Uganda.

We will drive across the Rift Valley to the most famous national park in Africa, Masai Mara National Game Reserve. We enjoy the afternoon on a game drive in search of the Big Five. We arrive at camp for the evening in the afternoon.  Once settled in, we embark on another game drive in the park.

With an early start to the morning we embark on another game drive in the park. Enjoy the variety of game viewing today as we cross the plains and rivers of the Masai Mara National Reserve.

We leave behind the Masai Mara making a stop at Ubuntu Cafe for lunch. After lunch we head to Lake Nakuru National Park. Our afternoon is spent game driving through the national park in search of the many animals such as the black rhino, buffalo, impala and the elusive leopard.

Enjoying one last game drive before making our way to Eldoret.

Get your passport ready for more countries to add as you enter Uganda. We will camp outside of the country’s capital today. Enjoy a welcome meeting to connect with your new travel companions.

Today you’ll cross the equator as you travel from Kampala to Lake Bunyonyi. Known as the “place of many little birds,” the lake is dotted with 29 islands and framed by steep, terraced hillsides. On arrival, enjoy some free time to explore the area or take a refreshing swim in the calm waters.

Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offers a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking adventure. With permits included, you’ll hike through forested volcano slopes to encounter endangered mountain gorillas—nearly half the world’s population lives here. Treks last up to 6 hours at altitudes of 2,500m, with rugged terrain and sudden rain. Waterproof gear, layered clothing, long sleeves, and hydration are essential. Groups are limited to 8 trekkers to protect the gorillas, making this an intimate and unforgettable wildlife experience.

Enjoy a full day at leisure on the shores of Lake Bunyonyi. You can choose from a range of optional activities, including swimming, hiking, canoeing, birdwatching, or a motorboat cruise around the lake. In the evening, regroup at the lodge and unwind together.

An early morning rise will enable us to go on a chimpanzee tracking excursion after which we will visit a tea plantation where a local guide will inform you about the varieties of tea and the farming process before making our way to Lake Mburo. Enjoy an optional boat cruise on the lake in the afternoon.

Today you’ll travel back across the equator into Uganda, one of the few places where this famous line can be crossed by land. En route, stop for lunch at the G Adventures–supported AidChild Equation Café & Gallery. Continue on to Jinja, arriving in the evening.

Spend time exploring Jinja and taking part in activities such as Quad Biking along the banks of the Nile or sip on some G&T’s while lying on a hammock floating down the Nile. Watch a spectacular sunset while cruising on a boat. Jinja has something for everyone.