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.

Cross remote mountain passes and the vast, empty landscapes of the Namib Desert as you journey to Swakopmund, Namibia’s adventure capital. Spend the next two nights here, with plenty of time to enjoy the wide range of optional activities on offer.

Enjoy a free day in Swakopmund. Choose from optional activities such as skydiving, sandboarding, or a scenic flight over the Skeleton Coast for a truly unforgettable experience. Skydiving can be pre-booked at checkout or arranged through your travel agent or Global Connection Officer.

Travel to the striking granite peaks of Spitzkoppe, often called the “Matterhorn of Namibia.” On arrival, enjoy free time to explore the area on foot. This remote setting is perfect for outdoor adventures, and the clear night skies offer excellent stargazing.

Take in the unique landscapes before continuing to Etosha National Park for excellent wildlife viewing. Enjoy a safari drive en route to camp, keeping an eye out for animals along the way. After sunset, watch wildlife gather at the floodlit waterholes near camp. In the evening, you also have the option to join a night safari in an open vehicle.

Venture into Etosha National Park for an exciting wildlife safari, where over 100 species of mammals roam the vast landscapes. In the dry season (May to October), animals congregate around waterholes, creating exceptional, close-up game viewing opportunities.

Take in the unique landscapes before continuing to Etosha National Park for excellent wildlife viewing. Enjoy a safari drive en route to camp, keeping an eye out for animals along the way. After sunset, watch wildlife gather at the floodlit waterholes near camp. In the evening, you also have the option to join a night safari in an open vehicle.

Cross from Namibia into Botswana and journey into the heart of the Kalahari Desert to reach D’kar. Here, you can join an optional Bushman walk to learn how the San people have adapted to this harsh environment. Tonight, experience the warm hospitality of the San community with a stay at the Dqae Qare San Lodge & Camp.

Travel onward to Maun, the gateway to the Okavango Delta. On arrival, enjoy some free time to relax before setting up camp with the group. You may choose to pre-book a scenic helicopter flight over the Delta for a spectacular aerial perspective. Later, prepare for your upcoming overnight excursion by picking up supplies. We recommend bringing around 5 litres of water per person, enough for both drinking and basic washing during your time in the Delta.

Immerse yourself in the wild with an overnight excursion into the Okavango Delta. Travel by 4×4 to a remote bush camp, then glide through the waterways in a traditional mokoro, spotting birdlife along the way. Stretch your legs on a guided wildlife walk before ending the day around the campfire with a classic sundowner.

Start the day with a guided morning safari walk, taking in the sights and sounds of the Okavango Delta as the wilderness comes to life. Afterwards, return to Maun before continuing your journey by road toward Nata, home to ancient and iconic baobab trees. Arrive in the afternoon and enjoy some free time to relax or explore the area at your own pace, soaking in the unique landscapes and atmosphere of this region.

Enjoy a free day in Victoria Falls, with plenty of options for adventure. Thrill-seekers can try whitewater rafting or take a scenic helicopter flight over the falls—the choice is yours! This area is perfect for exploring natural wonders while enjoying exciting optional experiences. For extra fun, you can pre-book any two of the following: Zambezi Whitewater Rafting, a Victoria Falls Helicopter Ride, or the Zambezi River Sunset Cruise. All optional activities can also be booked locally once you arrive in Victoria Falls.

Enjoy a full free day in Victoria Falls at your own pace. Thrill-seekers can choose from activities like whitewater rafting, a scenic helicopter flight over the falls, or bungee jumping with the thundering falls as your backdrop. For extra adventure, pre-book any two of the following: Zambezi Whitewater Rafting, Victoria Falls Helicopter Ride, or the Zambezi River Sunset Cruise—available on the checkout page or through your Global Connection Officer or travel agent. All optional activities can also be arranged locally upon arrival in Victoria Falls.

Settle in for a longer travel day as you journey through the Zambian countryside, with plenty of time to relax and connect with your group along the way. By late afternoon, arrive at your campsite on the banks of the Luangwa River, where you’ll have free time to unwind and take in the peaceful 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.

Start the day early with the option to join a morning safari drive—perfect for capturing incredible wildlife moments. Later, stop for lunch and visit the Tribal Textiles Market & Courtyard, where local artisans create beautiful handcrafted pieces. In the afternoon, continue your journey to Chipata.

Enjoy a free day to experience Lake Malawi at your own pace, whether that’s swimming, relaxing on the beach, or exploring the surroundings. In the evening, visit a local home for a traditional dinner before returning to camp for a night under the stars.

Enjoy another laid-back day along Lake Malawi, soaking up its stunning scenery. Later, travel north to Chitimba Beach, where you can relax by the water and even try to spot Tanzania across the lake. With free time on arrival, you might head out onto the water or take a scenic hike along the shoreline, surrounded by this beautiful landscape.

Cross into Tanzania today and journey toward Iringa. Along the way, enjoy spectacular scenery as you climb out of the Great Rift Valley, passing through dramatic mountain landscapes, rolling highlands, and lush tea plantations.

Journey northeast to your campsite in the Baobab Valley, set along the banks of the Ruaha River. After setting up camp, unwind as the sun sets over the lush landscape, casting warm light across the iconic baobabs. As night falls, look up to a sky filled with stars, and keep an eye out for shooting stars before settling in for the night.

Wake up in Baobab Valley and set off for Dar es Salaam. Enjoy the changing scenery as the countryside gives way to the shimmering blue waters of the Indian Ocean. Spend the night here before continuing on to the island beaches of Zanzibar.

Enjoy a full free day in the tropical paradise of Zanzibar. Take your pick from optional activities like snorkelling, sailing, or simply relaxing on the beach and soaking up the island atmosphere.

Travel back across Zanzibar to Stone Town, then visit a local spice plantation on a guided tour to discover the island’s famous flavours and aromas. Afterwards, enjoy time to explore the heart of the city at your own pace.

Travel in the Lando across varied landscapes to Arusha, keeping an eye out for views of Mt Kilimanjaro. Nestled at the foot of Mt Meru, Arusha is the perfect base for your Serengeti and Ngorongoro adventure. Use the afternoon to pack a small day bag with warm clothes for the crater rim, insect repellent, sunscreen, and water. Bedding is provided, though a sleeping bag can help keep you extra warm. Zanzibar Express travellers will transfer from their Stone Town hotel to the airport for the flight to Arusha and meet the group at camp. Only breakfast and dinner are included.

Wake early for a morning safari in the Serengeti National Park and watch the wildlife come alive. After breaking down camp, travel to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and set up camp near the crater rim, where you can enjoy the stunning surroundings for the rest of the day. If you’ve pre-booked the Serengeti Balloon Safari, today is likely your flight, your guide will confirm the timing. This flight replaces the morning safari but gives incredible aerial views. Nights at the camp can be chilly, so bring extra layers for comfort.

Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater floor for one last chance to spot the incredible wildlife that calls this unique ecosystem home. Take in the dramatic scenery as animals graze and predators roam in this iconic landscape. In the late morning, the group will make the journey back to Arusha, where you can relax and enjoy a free evening in the town, reflecting on your unforgettable Serengeti and Ngorongoro adventures.

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.