One of our flagship trips incorporating the best of both worlds. Game parks, island paradise, the warm heart of Africa and the adrenalin pumping town of Victoria falls. This trip will meet all your expectation and more, travelling from village to village you will have a true portrayal of Africa, its rhythm and beat – this is what makes people come back for more year after year. You’ve got to experience it to understand it.

This trip begins in Nairobi, Kenya and travels south through Tanzania, Malawi and Zambia, before ending in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

This trip departs from Nairobi early on Sunday morning.  Should you wish to explore Nairobi, an earlier arrival should be planned and accommodation booked.

Pre Departure Meeting:           Held at the Departure Point at 17h00 the day before your departure.

Departure Point:                      Hotel Boulevard, Harry Thuku Road, Nairobi.

Check-In Time:                        08h45

Departure Time:                      09h30

Please Note:

This itinerary should be used as a guide only and may vary from day to day depending on road & weather conditions, political situations and group decisions.

All prices & Local Payments are subject to change with prior notice.

Due to Tourism Laws in some of the countries we visit, there may be a truck and crew change during the trip.

DAY 1:  Nairobi to Arusha (Tanzania) (L / D)

This morning we collect the passengers who’ll be joining us on the next leg of our trek.  We travel south crossing the border into Tanzania at Namanga.  Tonight we stay in a lovely campsite in Meserani on the outskirts of Arusha, before heading out on our Optional Excursions to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.

DAY 2-4:  Arusha to Serengeti National Park (OPTIONAL) (B / L / D)

Arusha is a pleasant town situated at the base of Mount Meru and is the starting point for the optional excursions to Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti.  We conduct these excursions in locally operated 4WD vehicles, which are adapted for safari use.  Depending on which option you choose, you will be away from the Arusha campsite for either one or two nights

For those not opting to visit the Ngorongoro Crater or Serengeti National Park, the next 2 days are spent at leisure enjoying the Meserani reptile park, Masai Cultural Museum and the surrounding villages and craft markets. Alternatively the town of Arusha is close by to explore.

The Optional Ngorongoro/Serengeti excursion takes us via the Masai town of Mtu Wa Mbu (Mosquito River) that lies adjacent to the Lake Manyara National Park and up the Rift Valley Escarpment to the higher lying village of Karatu. Karatu offers magnificent views over the surrounding hills and has many well established wheat farms that add to the picturesque panoramas. We spend the evening at a pleasant campsite in Karatu. The following morning we depart early for the Ngorongoro Conservation area and head into the wildlife rich Ngorongoro Crater. This World Heritage Site boasts some of the best game viewing in Africa – including the elusive Black Rhino. Those on the 1 night option will transfer back to Meserani after the game drive.

After our game drive in the Crater, we head down the Crater rim and past the ‘Cradle of Mankind’ on our way to the Serengeti National Park. We cross the vast plains as we game drive through the southern and central areas in the park. Tonight we camp in the bushveld surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness. In the morning, we head off for another game drive and explore the landscape in search of the resident game. With some luck, we may see some of Africa’s ‘Big 5’!

After our morning drive, we head back across the plains and the lush Crater rim to our truck at Arusha, where we spend the evening musing over our thrilling wildlife experience.

DAY 5:  Arusha to Pangani (B / L / D)

After a morning spent exploring Arusha and its vibrant craft markets, we head south towards Dar es Salaam.  On the way we drive through the town of Moshi.  Moshi is the base for Mount Kilimanjaro climbing expeditions, and weather permitting; we may even catch a glimpse of this magical mountain’s snowy summit - a photo opportunity not to be missed!  We pass through vast sisal plantations surrounded by The Usambara and Pare Mountain ranges, before reaching our lovely campsite nestled between these mountains, midway between Arusha and Dar es Salaam.

DAY 6:  Pangani to Dar es Salaam (B / L / D)

Today we continue on to Dar es Salaam.  Travelling through lush scenery and palm trees, we near the warm Indian Ocean.  On arrival in Dar es Salaam we make our way to our lovely seaside campsite and prepare for our departure to Zanzibar the next morning. 

DAY 7:  Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar (B)

A ferry from Dar es Salaam takes us to the "Spice Island,” where we have the option to spend the next 3 nights.  Zanzibar is steeped in history and was one of the major starting points for most East African explorers in their quest for new lands.  New passengers may join us to replace those that’ll leave us at the end of our excursion to Zanzibar.

PLEASE NOTE:  Accommodation and Meals are for your own account whilst on Zanzibar, as it is our experience that passengers prefer to explore the island on their own.  The Trip Leader joins you and can arrange your accommodation, while meals can be enjoyed from a wide selection of restaurants.

DAYS 8 & 9:  Zanzibar

History aside, Zanzibar offers a wealth of experiences for the visitor.  Today the quiet streets of the old Stone Town still retain their Arabic influence, from the Medina-like shops to the palaces of the Sultans, who founded their vast empires on the spoils of the slave and ivory trade.  The island is famous for its spices and an excursion around a spice plantation is always a fascinating experience.  Other options include a trip to the beautiful beaches and giant tortoises of Prison Island, a full day scuba dive in Nungwe or a fishing trip in a traditional dhow.  Mopeds are available for hire if you’d like to explore the more remote areas of the island.  Zanzibar is a seafood lover’s paradise.  Numerous restaurants offer a great variety of the freshest catch from the ocean - crayfish being a popular speciality.  Alternatively, mingle with the locals for dinner at the Forodhani Gardens seafront market, where delicious, inexpensive seafood is on offer.

DAY 10:  Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam (D)

Leaving Zanzibar, we return to the mainland and another night in Dar es Salaam. 

DAY 11:  Dar es Salaam to Iringa (B / L / D)

This morning we leave Dar es Salaam and head south.  We pass through the Mikumi National Park where it is possible to view a range of wildlife from the roadside, totally impervious to the passing traffic.  We travel towards Iringa where we spend the night in a beautiful rustic campsite famous for its Amarula Hot Chocolates and its steamy showers!

DAYS 12 to 16:  Iringa to Lake Malawi (Malawi) (B / L / D)

Taking in the beauty of the Tukuyu tea and banana plantations, we head towards Malawi entering the ‘Warm Heart of Africa’ through the border post at Songwe. 

Malawi is a landlocked country with 20% of its total area made up of beautiful Lake Malawi.  We travel the length of the western side of the lake, stopping off at various bays and inlets over the next 5 days.

Spend the days learning the game of bao from the locals, scour the markets for a bargain or simply relax on the pristine white beaches.  Malawi’s temperate climate allows for swimming in the clear blue fresh-water lake all year round.  Explore the beautiful shore where you’ll happen upon the local fishermen sorting their catch.  Traditional fishing techniques are still practiced and to appreciate their boating skills, try to paddle a dug out canoe yourself!  The various beachside campsites along Lake Malawi’s shores offer many optional Excursions including a variety of water sports, horse back rides and a visit to the local village and school.

DAY 17:  Lake Malawi to Chipata (Zambia) (B / L / D)

From Lake Malawi, we cross into Zambia where we spend the night in a beautiful little campsite just 10 km after the Malawi/Zambia border.

DAY 18:  Chipata to Lusaka (B / L / D)

From Chipata, we head south to Lusaka to our campsite on the outskirts of Zambia’s capital city, Lusaka.  The campsite is home to some local wildlife including Africa’s largest antelope – Eland.

DAY 19:  Lusaka to Livingstone (B / L / D)

An early morning start sees us head south to Livingstone.  Victoria Falls or Mosi-oa-Tunya (the Smoke that Thunders) is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and it’s not difficult to see why.  At 1700 m wide and around 100 m high, this is the world's largest sheet of falling water and a memorable sight on any African Safari!  The Falls can be viewed from the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Zambia - a fantastic photo opportunity.  Tonight we have the OPTION of enjoying a sunset dinner cruise on the mighty Zambezi.

DAY 20:  Livingstone to Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) (B)

We leave Zambia and cross the Victoria Falls Bridge and the Zambezi River, entering into Zimbabwe at the town of Victoria Falls.  Here in Africa’s adventure capital, we set up camp in the town’s centrally located campsite.  The Falls can be viewed from the Victoria Falls National Park, Zimbabwe - a fantastic photo opportunity.  The afternoon is spent relaxing at the campsite’s swimming pool or exploring the many sights and delights of this town!

OPTIONAL Excursions include trips into the Zambezi or Hwange National Parks, elephant back safaris, horse back safaris, a visit to the crocodile ranch, boat cruises and golf at The Elephant Hills Resort.  Adrenalin junkies can bungee from the Victoria Falls Bridge connecting Zimbabwe and Zambia or abseil down the Batoka Gorge - neither activity is for the faint hearted!  All year round, flights in fixed wing, micro light and ultra light aircraft or helicopters provide an aerial perspective over this magnificent World Heritage Site.  White water rafting on the Zambezi is world class.  Beside the excitement of the Grade 5 rapids, there are the "floats," where there is time to admire the scenic cliffs and the occasional wildlife on the riverbanks.

DAYS 21:  Victoria Falls (B)

After breakfast, we exchange addresses and part ways, having just experienced a trip of a lifetime!

We suggest you extend your stay by a few days to participate in some of the exciting activities available here. 

OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS

Below is a selection of Optional Excursions available on this trip. 

Please Note    

- these prices are approximate and are subject to change

- where activities occur away from your base, there may be an additional transfer cost.

*Although traveller’s cheques are accepted for the Serengeti/Ngorongoro Excursions, they are subject to a surcharge of at least 5%.

**Please note that all accommodation & activities in Victoria Falls must be paid for in US$ cash (GBP & ZAR also accepted at a lower rate).

FREE TRIP

When you book this trip, you are entitled to receive both a FREE 3 Day Masai Mara Safari before your trip begins and a FREE 3 Day Hwange Safari after your trip ends.  The Local Payments are still applicable for each trip.  This fantastic offer must be taken up at the same time you book this trip. Conditions apply.

21 Day Southern Discoverer

(Trip Code: VN21)

VICTORIA FALLS to NAIROBI

This trip begins in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and travels north through Zambia, Malawi and Tanzania before ending in Nairobi, Kenya.

This trip departs from Victoria Falls on Sunday morning.  Should you wish to explore Victoria Falls, an earlier arrival should be planned and accommodation booked.

Pre Departure Meeting:           Held at the Departure Point at 17h00 the day before your departure.

Departure Point:                      Victoria Falls Rest Camp, Parkway Drive, Victoria Falls.

Check-In Time:                        08h45

Departure Time:                      09h30

Please Note:

This itinerary should be used as a guide only and may vary from day to day depending on road & weather conditions, political situations and group decisions.

All prices & Local Payments are subject to change.

Due to Tourism Laws in some of the countries we visit, there may be a truck and crew change during the trip.

DAY 1:  Victoria Falls

Today is spent relaxing or participating in a myriad of Optional Excursions.  AT 1700 metres wide and around 100 metres high, Victoria Falls are one of the most memorable sights on this African safari.  All year round, flights can be taken in fixed wing planes, micro lights or helicopters.  Back on the ground, the falls can be seen from the Victoria Falls National Park with its many viewing points or from the Zambian side.  All offer fantastic photographic opportunities.

White water rafting in the Batoka Gorge is considered to be world class. Besides the excitement of the grade 5 rapids, there are the "floats", where there is time to admire the scenic cliffs and occasional wildlife on the riverbanks.

OPTIONAL Excursions include trips into the Zambezi or Hwange National Parks, elephant back safaris, horse back safaris, a visit to the crocodile ranch, boat cruises and golf at The Elephant Hills Resort.  Adrenalin junkies can bungee from the Victoria Falls Bridge connecting Zimbabwe and Zambia or abseil down the Batoka Gorge - neither activity is for the faint hearted!  All year round, flights in fixed wing, micro light and ultra light aircraft or helicopters provide an aerial perspective over this magnificent World Heritage Site.  White water rafting on the Zambezi is world class.  Beside the excitement of the Grade 5 rapids, there are the "floats," where there is time to admire the scenic cliffs and the occasional wildlife on the riverbanks.

DAY 2:  Victoria Falls to Livingstone (Zambia) (B / L / D)

We leave Zimbabwe and cross the Victoria Falls Bridge and the Zambezi River, entering into Zambia at the town of Livingstone.  We have the opportunity to view The Falls from the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Zambia.  Another fantastic photo opportunity.  The day affords us the opportunity to participate in the activities available in Zambia we weren’t able to do on the Zimbabwean side of the Falls.  Tonight we have the option of enjoying a sunset dinner cruise on the mighty Zambezi.

DAY 3:  Livingstone to Lusaka (B / L / D)

An early morning start sees us head north through southern Zambia to our campsite on the outskirts of Zambia’s capital city, Lusaka.  The campsite is home to some local wildlife including the largest antelope – Eland.

DAY 4:  Lusaka to Chipata (B / L / D)

From Lusaka we head north east to a beautiful little campsite just 10 km before the Zambia/Malawi border.  Here we spend the night before heading into Malawi.

DAYS 5 to 9:  Chipata to Lake Malawi Beaches(Malawi) (B / L / D)

Leaving Zambia we cross into Malawi, the ‘Warm Heart of Africa’.  We stop off in the capital, Lilongwe, a small city distinctively divided into the old town and the new administrative centre. Malawi is a landlocked country with 20% of its total area made up of beautiful Lake Malawi.  We travel the full length of the western side of the lake, stopping off at various bays and inlets over the next 5 days.

Spend the days learning the game of bao from the locals, scour the markets for a bargain or simply relax on the pristine beaches.  Malawi’s temperate climate allows for swimming in the clear blue fresh-water lake all year round.  Explore the beautiful shore where you’ll happen upon the local fishermen sorting their catch.  Traditional fishing techniques are still practiced and to appreciate their boating skills, try to paddle a dug out canoe yourself!  The various beachside campsites along Lake Malawi’s shores offer many optional Excursions including a variety of water sports, horse back rides and a visit to the local village and school.

DAY 10:  Lake Malawi to Iringa (Tanzania) (B / L / D)

After a relaxing 5 days, we leave Malawi, entering Tanzania through the border post at Songwe.  Taking in the beauty of the Tukuyu tea and banana plantations, we head towards Iringa where we spend the night in the beautiful rustic ‘Farmhouse’ campsite famous for its Amarula Hot Chocolates and its steamy showers!

DAY 11:  Iringa to Dar es Salaam (B / L / D)

The next morning we make our way to Dar es Salaam.  We pass through the Mikumi National Park where it is possible to view a range of wildlife from the roadside, totally impervious to the passing traffic.  On arrival in Dar es Salaam, we make our way to our lovely seaside campsite and prepare for our departure to Zanzibar the next morning. 

DAY 12:  Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar (B)

A ferry from Dar es Salaam takes us to the "Spice Island,” where we have the option to spend the next 3 nights.  Zanzibar is steeped in history and was one of the major starting points for most East African explorers in their quest for new lands.  New passengers may join us to replace those that’ll leave us at the end of our excursion to Zanzibar.

PLEASE NOTE:  Accommodation and Meals are for your own account whilst on Zanzibar, as it is our experience that passengers prefer to explore the island on their own.  The Trip Leader joins you and can arrange your accommodation, while meals can be enjoyed from a wide selection of restaurants.

DAYS 13 & 14:  Zanzibar

History aside, Zanzibar offers a wealth of experiences for the visitor.  Today the quiet streets of the old Stone Town still retain their Arabic influence, from the Medina-like shops to the palaces of the Sultans, who founded their vast empires on the spoils of the slave and ivory trade.  The island is famous for its spices and an excursion around a spice plantation is always a fascinating experience.  Other options include a trip to the beautiful beaches and giant tortoises of Prison Island, a full day scuba dive in Nungwe or a fishing trip in a traditional dhow.  Mopeds are available for hire if you’d like to explore the more remote areas of the island.  Zanzibar is a seafood lover’s paradise.  Numerous restaurants offer a great variety of the freshest catch from the ocean - crayfish being a popular speciality.  Alternatively, mingle with the locals for dinner at the Forodhani Gardens seafront market, where delicious, inexpensive seafood is on offer.

DAY 15:  Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam (D)

Leaving Zanzibar, we return to the mainland and another night in Dar es Salaam. 

DAY 16:  Dar es Salaam to Arusha (B / L / D)

From Dar es Salaam we travel through vast sisal plantations to Arusha.  On the way, we pass The Pare and Usambara Mountain ranges before driving through the town of Moshi.  Moshi is the base for Mount Kilimanjaro climbing expeditions and weather permitting; we may even catch a glimpse of this magical mountain’s snowy summit - a photo opportunity not to be missed!  Tonight we stay in a lovely campsite in Meserani on the outskirts of Arusha, before heading out on our Optional Excursions to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.

DAYS 17 - 19: Arusha / Optional Ngorongoro Crater/Serengeti Excursion (B / L / D)

Arusha is a pleasant town situated at the base of Mount Meru and is the starting point for the optional excursions to Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti.  We conduct these excursions in locally operated 4WD vehicles, which are adapted for safari use.  Depending on which option you choose, you will be away from the Arusha campsite for either one or two nights

For those not opting to visit the Ngorongoro Crater or Serengeti National Park, the next 2 days are spent at leisure enjoying the Meserani reptile park, Masai Cultural Museum and the surrounding villages and craft markets. Alternatively the town of Arusha is close by to explore. (B / L / D)

The Optional Ngorongoro/Serengeti excursion takes us via the Masai town of Mtu Wa Mbu (Mosquito River) that lies adjacent to the Lake Manyara National Park and up the Rift Valley Escarpment to the higher lying village of Karatu. Karatu offers magnificent views over the surrounding hills and has many well established wheat farms that add to the picturesque panoramas. We spend the evening at a pleasant campsite in Karatu. The following morning we depart early for the Ngorongoro Conservation area and head into the wildlife rich Ngorongoro Crater. This World Heritage Site boasts some of the best game viewing in Africa – including the elusive Black Rhino. Those on the 1 night option will transfer back to Meserani after the game drive.

After our game drive in the Crater, we head down the Crater rim and past the ‘Cradle of Mankind’ on our way to the Serengeti National Park. We cross the vast plains as we game drive through the southern and central areas in the park. Tonight we camp in the bushveld surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness. In the morning, we head off for another game drive and explore the landscape in search of the resident game. With some luck, we may see some of Africa’s ‘Big 5’!

After our morning drive, we head back across the plains and the lush Crater rim to our truck at Arusha, where we spend the evening musing over our thrilling wildlife experience.

DAY 20:  Arusha to Namanga (Kenya) (B / L / D)

After a morning spent exploring Arusha’s city centre and vibrant craft markets, we head to lunch just outside of town.  After lunch, we travel 120 km to the Tanzania / Kenya border.  Once the border formalities are complete, we camp at Namanga just over the Kenyan border.

DAY 21:  Namanga to Nairobi (B)

This morning we travel 180 km north to the capital city, Nairobi.  On arrival, we head to the Hotel Boulevard, where we exchange addresses and part ways, having just experienced a trip of a lifetime!

OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS

Below is a selection of Optional Excursions available on this trip. 

Please Note    

- these prices are approximate and are subject to change

- where activities occur away from your base, there may be an additional transfer cost.

*Although traveller’s cheques are accepted for the Serengeti/Ngorongoro Excursions, they are subject to a surcharge of at least 5%.

**Please note that all accommodation & activities in Victoria Falls must be paid for in US$ cash (GBP & ZAR also accepted at a lower rate).

FREE TRIP

When you book this trip, you are entitled to receive both a FREE 3 Day Hwange Safari before your trip begins and a FREE 3 Day Masai Mara Safari after your trip ends.  The Local Payments are still applicable for each trip.  This fantastic offer must be taken up at the same time you book this trip. Conditions apply.

The staff and management look forward to welcoming you aboard and trust that you will enjoy your trip with us.

"Safari Njema"         

Important: Before you travel please check your Tour Voucher and Arrival Information for the latest joining instructions. This will be sent to you upon receipt of final payment.