This Budget Accommodated Safari will start in the coastal city of Port Elizabeth and end in vibrant Johannesburg, South Africa.
The Lesotho, Swaziland & Kruger Park Safari starts off with game viewing in Addo Elephant Park, before we head for the small mountain kingdom of Lesotho where you will be able to enjoy some pony trekking or hiking in the hills.
From Lesotho it's off to South Africa's Drakensberg Mountain area and on to Durban.
Leaving Durban we drive to St. Lucia National Park and Hluhluwe-Umfolozi National Park in the Kwazulu Natal region.
We then end our Budget Lesotho, Swaziland & Kruger Park Safari off with a visit to to South Africa's premier Reserve, the Kruger National Park home to Africa's "Big 5". On our way back to Johannesburg we will go via the Panoramic Route to take in the last spectacular scenery before our Southern African journey comes to an end.
This Budget Lesotho, Swaziland & Kruger Park Safari departs from the coastal city of Port Elizabeth heading north into the Eastern Cape. Entering the Addo Elephant National Park we are surrounded by these magnificent creatures.
Addo Park is home to one of the highest concentrations of African elephants on earth; as well as a variety of marine and land animals. Game driving in our elevated safari truck in Addo Park will allow us to take some wonderful photos of many of Africa’s big game.
Optional activities: Night game drive with SANP
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After a final game drive we depart Addo National Park and drive to Cintsa, a laid-back resort village on the East Coast of South Africa. In seaside Cintsa you will have the chance to participate in the many optional activities on offer.
Optional Activities: boat rental, quad bike, abseiling
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we leave South Africa and enter Lesotho, the Kingdom in the Sky.
Lesotho is one of the highest countries in the world, with the entire country lying over 1000m above sea level. The next day we get up early and those who choose to go on the optional Pony Trekking Excursion will ride into the remote hills of Lesotho accompanied by local guides.
On your return the group will visit the local village and school. Those staying behind can explore the rural village and visit a local crafts market while the others are pony trekking in the hills of Lesotho.
Optional Activities: Pony Trekking Excursion, Hiking.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We return to South Africa where we drive to the mountainous Royal Natal National Park in the scenic Drakensberg region. We spend the next two days exploring mountain paths and enjoying the beauty the Drakensberg Mountains.
The Drakensberg Mountains are South Africa’s highest and most beautiful mountain range. We explore the mountain paths and admire the breathtaking views in the Ukhahlamba Drakensberg (Royal Natal) National Park. On our second day we will be going on a guided hike in the Drakensberg to see some of the san rock paintings.
Optional Activities: Horse Riding, Hiking
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Our Budget Lesotho, Swaziland & Kruger Park Safari takes us through some amazing scenery on our way down to the Kwa Zulu Natal Coast of South Africa. In the late afternoon we enter the bustling city of Durban, South Africa’s largest port and well know surfing destination.
We stay in the heart of the city this evening with the option of going out for a meal at one of the excellent Indian restaurants in Durban and enjoying this coastal city’s vibrant nightlife.
Optional Activities: Lunch, dinner and night out in the city.
Meals: Breakfast
Departing from Durban we travel north along the sunny east coast of South Africa making our way to the Isimangaliso Wetland Park. In the afternoon we enjoy a relaxing sunset boat cruise on the lagoon, the best place to spot the range of wildlife here, including hippo and rich birdlife.
The St Lucia Wetland Park is a UNESCO recognised area covering extremely varied habitats, such as: lakes, beaches, coral reefs, wetlands, woodlands, coastal forests and grasslands together supporting an astounding diversity of animal, bird and marine life.
In the afternoon we have the option of visiting a traditional Zulu Village. Tonight we spend the night in this area surrounded by untamed nature.
Optional Activities: Traditional Zulu Village visit.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we embark on a thrilling morning game drive in Hluhluwe / Imfolozi National Park, famous for its rhino conservation and hippos.
Hluhluwe and Imfolozi together make up one of Kwa-Zulu Natal's best National Parks and provide a home to the largest population of White Rhinos in the world. The Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve is the only state-run park in the KwaZulu-Natal province where all of the Big Five of Africa occur.
We explore this prestigious game reserve in open 4x4 safari vehicles and in the afternoon we cross the border into Swaziland.
Optional Activities: Mountain Biking, Hiking, Horse Riding.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is the oldest game park in Swaziland and covers 4,560 hectares.
As there are no large predators in this area there are a number of self-guided hikes for exploring the wilderness area on foot. Hiking in Mlilwane is highly recommended as an excellent way of interacting with the local flora and fauna. In addition to the beautiful scenery we also have some traditional Swaziland dancing to look forward to after dinner at camp.
Optional Activities: Mountain Biking, Hiking, Guided Birding walks, Horse Riding and Sunset Game Drive.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We return to South Africa and drive to the famous Kruger Park for two unforgettable days of game viewing. Kruger National Park is home to Africa’s Big 5 as well as a multitude of other beautiful African animals, both small and large.
Our safari truck gives us a height advantage over other vehicles improving our photo opportunities. There will be a number of game drives in Kruger Park to give us the best opportunity to see all the animals.
Optional Activities (subject to availability): Night Drive and Dawn Game Walk through SANP, Full day 4x4 game drive.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (day 13), Dinner
Leaving Kruger Park, one of the world’s most famous nature conservation areas, behind we drive to tonight’s campsite. Our safari camp is located in the Greater Kruger Park area and from there we visit a Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre.
At the Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre injured or lost animals are rehabilitated for release back into the wild providing a wonderful opportunity for close encounters with rare and special wildlife species, as well as a great chance to learn about the positive achievements of the wildlife centre.
In the evening we sample some typically South African cuisine and enjoy a traditional song and dance performance at our safari camp.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning we travel along the Panorama Route, one of the most beautiful parts of South Africa. We stop for breathtaking views at Blyde River Canyon, God’s Window and Bourke’s Luck Potholes as we go.
This Budget Lesotho, Swaziland & Kruger Park Safari ends on arrival in Johannesburg, although most groups enjoy an optional dinner on the last night together.
Optional Activities: Dinner Out.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
This northbound Budget Lesotho, Swaziland & Kruger Park Safari is also available in the reverse order, starting in Johannesburg and ending in Port Elizabeth as the Kruger Park, Swaziland & Lesotho Safari travelling south.
These Accommodated Lesotho, Swaziland & Kruger Safaris are also available as Camping Safaris - for more details please contact African Budget Safaris.
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]]>This Budget African Safari begins in Nairobi, Kenya and travels south, exploring Uganda, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Malawi, Zambia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique, before ending in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Highlights on this Budget Camping Safari through Africa include:
The epic African Wildlife, Beaches & Gorilla Safari visits a whopping nine African countries and an abundance of top game parks and natural wonders over 49 days.
This budget camping safari sets off from Johannesburg travelling into the Lowveld of South Africa towards the renowned Kruger National Park. Our journey takes us through the southern part of the scenic Panorama Route – famous for its breathtaking views.
We enter Kruger Park in the late afternoon and enjoy our first game drive on the way to our campsite within the Kruger Park. Tonight we relax around the campfire at camp, getting a good night's rest before our early morning game drive in Kruger.
Today we explore the world-famous Kruger National Park on game viewing drives. This top African game park covers an area of 21 497 km2 (60 km wide and over 350 km long).
The vast Kruger Park conservation area is home to over 146 mammals, 500 bird, 114 reptile, 33 amphibian & 49 fish species. Around 23 000 different types of plants have also been recorded in this wilderness area.
We spend the day driving through Kruger Park in South Africa in search of the abundance of wildlife inhabiting the game reserve, stopping off at view points as we explore. Tonight we spend the evening at one of the southern camps in Kruger National Park, surrounded by the game-rich bush.
We hit the road early today, driving across the border we leave South Africa and travel to the warm Indian Ocean waters of the Mozambique coastline.
Our first stop in Mozambique is Inhambane, once the trade centre of Portuguese East Africa in colonial years. Today Maputo is the capital of Mozambique and the centre of its trade industry.
The beaches just outside of Inhambane are well known for their good scuba diving sites, by both locals and holidaymakers, due to the variety of reefs nearby.
You are free to spend the day at leisure soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Go diving to discover the abundant marine life along the coast, browse the bustling “Mecado Central” (central market), or explore the beaches on horseback.
Inhambane offers some of the best scuba diving in the world with reefs close to all of the beaches, including the famous Manta Reef and Gallaria. Marine sightings include Manta Rays, Whale Sharks, Turtles and a host of other marine life.
There are various professional scuba diving operators along this stretch of Mozambique coast and dives can be booked with them on arrival at the safari camp. For those wishing to see the spectacular marine life that are not able to dive, snorkelling is also excellent.
On day five of this African Budget Safari we take a leisurely drive up the coast of Mozambique to the picturesque Morrungulu Resort. The resort camp is set among coconut palm plantations, offering a truly tropical island feel – beware of falling coconuts!
Try out deep-sea fishing, or stroll along the lovely beach at Morrungulu.
The coastal town of Villanculous is the stepping stone to the three main islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago off Mozambique.
We spend the next two nights of our epic African journey in Vilanculous, to enable those who wish to take a boat charter to the smaller island of Magaruque to do so on day seven. Other activities include traditional Dhow sailing trips, sunset cruises, horse riding, big game fishing, whale watching (seasonal) and more.
Continuing our drive northwards we say farewell to the tropical coastline of Mozambique heading inland to Bandula.
Our drive on day eight takes us through more rural parts of Mozambique giving us the chance to see local Mozambican villages and farmsteads.
Arriving at our next overnight stop in the late afternoon, we set up camp on the banks of the Chicamba Dam.
Today we cross from Mozambique into Zimbabwe. A beautiful southern African country, rich in culture, history and tradition. We drive into the Zimbabwe Midlands, to the town of Gweru.
Here we stop over at Antelope Park. Rumour has it that “you have not been to Zimbabwe until you have visited the Victoria Falls… and the Antelope Park.”
Antelope Park offers a wide variety of game viewing activities in this wilderness area inhabited by lion, elephant, giraffe and of course numerous antelope (as the name suggests)! Seize the unique opportunity of walking with lions, riding or swimming with elephants, viewing game from horseback or from the back of a safari vehicle.
Enjoy close encounters with Africa’s wildlife and feel the thrill of a walk with lions, or a ride on elephant back at Antelope Park today.
In the evening you can venture into the bushes on a night game drive in Antelope Park!
From Gweru, we set off for Bulawayo, Zimbabwe’s second largest city. Bulawayo is known for its extra wide streets, originally designed for full span ox wagons.
The British Colonial influence can still be seen in Bulawayo, with many of the character buildings being preserved as heritage sites by the Bulawayo City Council. Places of interest worth visiting include, the Natural History Museum, the National Arts Gallery and the Mzilikazi Arts and Crafts Centre, which employs more than 70 people.
Today we drive north-west to the oldest and largest game park in Zimbabwe – Hwange National Park. Hwange Park is well known for its abundant and varied wildlife species, including thousands of elephants, and rare antelope species such as the Sable and Roan Antelope.
We embark on a rewarding game drive, in the late afternoon or early morning, to explore the wildlife haven of Hwange Park in search of resident wildlife species.
We leave Hwange Park and drive on to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe today.
Named after the famous World Heritage Site and Waterfall, the town of Victoria Falls is located along the Zambezi River, surrounded by the Victoria Falls National Park. Our safari campsite is conveniently situated in the centre of Victoria Falls town, within walking distance of the local restaurants, shops and booking agents for adventure activities.
A 20 minute walk takes you to the entry point for viewing the spectacular Vic Falls, falling between Zimbabwe and Zambia. Victoria Falls, or Mosi-oa-Tunya (the Smoke that Thunders), was named by the explorer David Livingstone and is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Victoria Falls is the world's largest sheet of falling water at 1700 m wide and about 100 m high. An awesome and memorable sight on any African Safari!
A short adventure activities brief is followed by an afternoon of leisure for you to unwind at the campsite’s swimming pool, view the mighty Victoria Falls, or explore the sights and delights of Vic Falls town!
For the next two days you are free to relax and explore the area as well as taking advantage of some of the fantastic Optional Adventure Activities at Victoria Falls.
Some of our fellow travellers may end their tour in Vic Falls and new passengers often join us for the next leg of our affordable African Safari.
Optional Excursions include elephant back safaris, horseback safaris, walking with lions, 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 River is world class. In addition to the excitement of the Grade 5 rapids, there are the "floats," where there is time to admire the towering cliffs and occasional wildlife on the riverbanks.
After breakfast we depart from Vic Falls crossing into Botswana and making our way to Kasane where we set up camp on the banks of the Chobe River.
Listen out for the resident hippos enjoying the waters of Chobe River, the major water source in Chobe National Park. The Chobe River forms a natural border between Botswana and Namibia and Zambia. Chobe National Park is one of Botswana’s premier game parks, renowned for its large herds of elephant.
We take a relaxing boat cruise along the Chobe River after lunch.
For the adventurous safari goers, there is the option of taking a Chobe National Park Sleep-out – an overnight experience in the Chobe National Park. After the boat cruise we return to Kasane and prepare for our Chobe National Park Overnight Trip into the wilds.
Arriving in Chobe Park we spend the afternoon in search of African wildlife on a game drive to our bush camp inside this top Botswana Game Park.
We spend the evening listening to the night-time noises of the local wildlife in the surrounding bush. Look out for the rare Sable and Roan Antelope on your game drive, with their impressive backward slanting horns, or try keep a count of the Lilac Breasted Roller’s swooping by!
After our night in the Botswana bush, we head out early on a game viewing drive in Chobe Park, before packing up the safari camp and heading back north to Kasane.
On our return to the camp in Kasane, we get back on our safari truck and continue to the Zambian town of Livingstone.
This afternoon we have the opportunity to view Victoria Falls from the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Zambia or partake in a sunset boat cruise on the Zambezi River. More fantastic photo opportunities!
Today we make an early start and head northwards, passing through villages and towns in southern Zambia en route to our next campsite. The night is spent camping on the outskirts of Lusaka, Zambia's capital city.
Zambia prospered during the copper boom in the 60’s and was able to establish extensive infrastructure in its main mining and farming communities. With the decline of the copper industry, the country was left virtually bankrupt and the infrastructure fell into ruine. But today Zambia is again starting to prosper, due to foreign investment and a resurgence in the mining industry. The rising prosperity can be seen in the cities of Zambia where foreign stores, banks and imported cars are increasing, but the villages and smaller towns are less cosmopolitan.
Some of the local wildlife such as the Eland, Africa's largest antelope, share the safari campsite with us!
Travelling on the old "East Road" we drive in a northeasterly direction from Lusaka, finding our way to a stunning campsite a mere 10 km from the border between Zambia and Malawi.
We follow what was once the route from Cape Town to Cairo that passes through Lusaka on its way to Malawi. While most of today is taken up by driving, we do cross the impressive Luangwa River Bridge which is closely guarded due to its close proximity to the Zimbabwean & Malawian borders.
We’ll also stop to stock up on some fresh produce and supplies from the local sellers along the way. We overnight at our lovely campsite, before heading into neighbouring Malawi.
Malawi is known as the 'Warm Heart of Africa' and next our safari takes us to find out why. We stop in the administrative centre and capital of Malawi, Lilongwe. Malawi is a landlocked country with 20% of its total area consisting of the beautiful, fresh-water Lake Malawi.
Over the next few days we travel the full length of the western side of Lake Malawi, stopping off at various bays and inlets. Days are spent relaxing on the unspoilt beaches, learning to play the game of bao from locals or bargain hunting at the markets.
The temperate climate of Malawi is suited to swimming all year round, so you can always take a dip in the clear blue waters. Explore the picturesque shores of Lake Malawi meeting local fishermen as they sort the fresh catch of the day. The fishermen still bring in their catch using traditional fishing techniques. The ‘fairy’ lights of the fishermens' boats twinkle out on the lake at night.
You can gain insight into the skill involved in handling one of the fishing boats by trying your hand at paddling a dug out canoe yourself. Excursions offered at the beachside campsites along Lake Malawi's shores include options such as water sports, horse riding and visits to the local school and village.
We leave Lake Malawi utterly relaxed after four days and enter Tanzania via the border post at Songwe. We take in the beauty of the Tukuyu banana and tea plantations of the area as we head for our next night's stop, Iringa.
The rustic 'Farmhouse' campsite in Iringa is famous for its Amarula Hot Chocolates and steamy showers, worth savouring.
After a good night's rest in Iringa we continue to the seaside town of Dar es Salaam.
We pass through the Mikumi National Park of Tanzania seeing a wide range of wildlife from the roadside. The wild animals appear impervious to passing traffic, which makes for fantastic game viewing.
Upon our arrival in Dar es Salaam, we find our lovely campsite set at the seaside and busy ourselves with preparations for the next stretch of our African journey. The next morning we embark on the trip to Zanzibar Island.
On day 26 we travel to Zanzibar on our optional excursion. From Dar es Salaam we take a ferry across to the "Spice Island," where we spend three nights.
Zanzibar has a colourful past once serving as one of the major departure points for most of the explorations into new territories of East Africa. New passengers may join us on our Zanzibar Trip, as some travel companions might opt to end their tour back in Dar es Salaam.
KINDLY NOTE:
The Zanzibar accommodation and meals costs are for your own account, as experience has shown that visitors prefer exploring the island unguided. Zanzibar hosts a wide selection of restaurants offering a variety of tasty meals. The Trip Leader joins you and can help with arranging accommodation in Zanzibar.
Zanzibar Island has a great range of activities to offer visitors, from quiet sightseeing to exciting water activities.
Explore a spice plantation, an interesting experience on Zanzibar, which is famous for its spices. The quaint streets of the old Stone Town of Zanzibar reveal traces of their Arabic history, from Medina-style shops to the impressive palaces that once belonged to powerful Sultans.
Other interesting activities include a day trip to the pristine beaches of Prison Island, to see its giant tortoises. A full day of scuba diving in Nungwe is well worth it, as is the experience of fishing in a traditional saiing dhow.
There are a variety of restaurants offering a fantastic array of fresh seafood straight from the ocean, with crayfish being a popular speciality. You can mingle with the locals at the seafront market of Forodhani Gardens, where inexpensive yet delicious seafood is available.
Departing from Zanzibar Island in the afternoon our relaxing beach trip comes to a close. We return to the shores of Tanzania by the early evening and spend the night at our safari camp in Dar es Salaam town.
From Dar es Salaam we travel through African bush and expansive sisal plantations on our way to the pleasant town of Arusha.
We pass The Pare and Usambara Mountain ranges before driving through Moshi town. Moshi is a great place from which to catch a glimpse of the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro on a clear day - a fantastic photo opportunity! The town of Moshi forms the base for climbing expeditions up Mount Kilimanjaro's slopes to its snowy summit. The night is spent camping in scenic Meserani on the outskirts of Arusha.
Next we have the option of taking an excursion to the legendary Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
Arusha town is located at the foot of Mount Meru and serves as the gateway for excursions to Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, Lake Manyara Park and the Serengeti Park. These game viewing excursions are run in locally operated 4WD safari vehicles that have been adapted for our African safari drives.
Explore the thriving town of Arusha in the morning if you like, while we stock up on supplies for our wildlife excursion. You can browse the vibrant craft markets, go shopping or perhaps catch up on the news back home at one of the small internet cafes.
Heading back to our base camp, Meserani Snake Park, those that are participating in the optional Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park Trip can prepare for their departure this afternoon.
For those choosing not to visit the Serengeti National Park & Ngorongoro Crater various alternative activities are available. You can explore the nearby town of Arusha and visit the Masai Cultural Museum, Meserani reptile park, or the surrounding villages and craft markets over the next two days of this Gorilla, Beaches & Wildlife African Safari.
The Optional Ngorongoro & Serengeti Trip goes to Karatu via the Masai town of Mtu Wa Mbu (Mosquito River) located next to Lake Manyara National Park. We journey up the Great Rift Valley Escarpment to Karatu, which is a higher lying village offering spectacular views over the surrounding hills.
Karatu has many well-established wheat farms adding to its picturesque scenery. We stay at pleasant campsite in Karatu overnight, departing early the following morning for the Ngorongoro Crater. Driving to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area we head deeper into the bush of the Ngorongoro Crater teeming with wildlife. This crater is a World Heritage Site boasting some of the best game viewing in Africa. Ngorongoro Crater game viewing opportunities include seeing the elusive Black Rhino.
We explore the Crater on a game drive before moving on down the crater rim and passing the 'Cradle of Mankind' en route to the Serengeti National Park. We cross the open African plains on the game drive through the southern and central areas of the Serengeti Park. Then we camp in the heart of the untamed bushveld surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness at night.
In the morning we take a thrilling game drive in Serengeti Park, admiring the surrounding landscape as we search for game in the area. With some luck we get to sight the famous 'Big 5' (elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion & leopard) of Africa on our Serengeti game drive. After the morning game drive, we retrace our steps crossing the vast plains and lush Ngorongoro Crater rim.
Back in Tanzania's Arusha we spend the evening recounting our thrilling tales of the wildlife encounters on the plains of Serengeti & Ngorongoro.
Driving north early this morning we head to the Tanzania-Kenyan border via the small border town of Namanga. Crossing into Kenya we journey to our next overnight campsite located on the outskirts of the Capital City of Nairobi.
The Safari Camp in Nairobi is ideally situated next to the Nairobi National Park, and is close to the giraffe sanctuary and elephant orphanage. The camp is also close to the famous Carnivore Restaurant.
Today is free for you to enjoy some of the many things to do in the bustling city of Nairobi.
Visit The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust to see the orphaned baby Elephants at feeding time, head to the Giraffe Centre in Langata for game viewing, then Nairobi National Park offers some great day trips or if you haven’t quite got all those souvenirs you wanted, take a “Matatu” to the local curio markets near the campsite. This evening you might like to try the fair on offer at the famous Carnivores restaurant.
Leaving the lively streets of Nairobi behind we climb the gentle slopes of the escarpment. Along the way we stop at a viewpoint overlooking the splendid Great Rift Valley.
We then descend into the Rift Valley, entering Masai territory where these habitual pastoralists are often seen tending their cattle along the roadside. We drive through the town of Narok, possibly sighting some wildlife as we head for our campsite outside of town. The Safari Camp overlooks the Meguarra hills and a meandering stream that forms a natural border with the Masai Mara National Reserve.
Departing shortly after sunrise we embark on a game drive into the Masai Mara Reserve. Kenya's Masai Mara is well known as one of East Africa’s best National Reserves and is home to a wide variety of wildlife species.
Mara is most famous for the Annual Wildebeest Migration, also called the Great Migration. This wildlife spectacle occurs when impressive herds of over 1 million wildebeest, zebra and Thomson’s gazelle stampede across the open plains from the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania to Masai Mara in Kenya.
Masai Mara is particularly popular between July and October when these huge herds of herbivores search for fresh grazing. These grazers in turn attract Africa’s predators, often seen at a kill during the migration. Our game drive takes us through a section of the Mara Park in search of Africa's ‘Big Five’- elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion & leopard; along with the many other species of animals, reptiles and birds inhabiting this wilderness area.
After our game drive in Masai Mara, we have the option of visiting one of the nearby Masai Manyatta’s – traditional hamlets where the Masai Tribe still live in their traditional way. In the evening we relax around the camp fire, watching the sun set over this African “Garden of Eden”.
The early morning sees us departing the Masai Mara Game Reserve, passing through the scenic tea plantations of Kericho before dipping off the Rift Valley Plateau.
We travel to Kenya's harbour town, Kisumu, located on the banks of Lake Victoria, the largest of Africa's lakes. Here we stock up on supplies and rest for the night.
Crossing the border from Kenya we travel into the striking African country of Uganda.
We stay in the capital city, Kampala, for our first night in Uganda. Uganda is a small country, covering diverse terrains. Habitats vary from fertile areas of greenery in the northern area around the shores of Lake Victoria to the snow-capped Ruwenzori Mountain peaks in the west and the captivating semi-desert region in the north of Uganda.
The political instability in Uganda over the past has inadvertently sheltered the country from the negative impacts of rampant commercialisation. The current administration has devoted considerable efforts and funds to restoring Uganda to its former position as one of Africa's most prosperous and alluring travel destinations. Uganda's appeal for tourists lies in its being less affected by commercialisation than other African countries, making it an interesting and unique country to visit.
On day 40 we depart from Kampala early in the morning heading west into the heart of beautiful Uganda.
Our next overnight base is located at the scenic Lake Bunyoni, “place of many little birds”. Around 200 bird species have been recorded at this tranquil lake dotted with islands.
From Lake Bunyoni we have the option of participating in exciting Gorilla Trekking excursions. The gorilla treks take place in the Magahinga or Bwindi National Parks (Uganda), Virunga National Park (Democratic Republic of Congo), or Ruhengeri National Park (Rwanda); depending on the availability of gorilla trekking permits.
The prices of the trekking permits change, sometimes without prior notice. The price is currently at US$500 depending on which National Park we are gorilla trekking in. The gorilla permit fee is used to help conserve these endangered animals. A local transport and handling fee is charged, at between US$65 and US$70 per person (this includes the return transfer and booking fee with the Wildlife Authority).
When gorilla trekking takes place in the DRC or Rwanda, we will also need to pay for the additional visa for either country, as well as renewing our Ugandan visa when we re-enter the country. The trip leader will advise at the pre-departure meeting as to where the permits have been secured, and will assist with the online visa application for Rwanda en-route if needed. Please take these costs into account when budgeting for the gorilla trekking excursions.
We also advise budgeting a little extra for tipping the local guides and game rangers. Please budget accordingly as payment for the trekking permit must be made in US$ cash at the pre-departure meeting.
With only about 700 mountain gorillas remaining, gorilla trekking is an extraordinary opportunity to encounter these gentle primates in the wild. On these unforgettable treks we get to watch the mountain gorilla (Gorilla Gorilla Berengei), one of our closest living relatives, in its natural habitat – a rare and unique wildlife experience! The gorillas are monitored on a daily basis giving the rangers a good idea of where to find these endangered primates at any given time. This said, sightings of the mountain gorillas cannot be guaranteed, as they are still free roaming wild animals.
These mountain gorillas share much of our DNA, therefore anyone with even the mildest cold or any transferable disease will not be permitted on the gorilla treks. There is an age restriction of a minimum of 16 years of age for trekking. The number of daily visitors allowed on the gorilla treks is limited, thus we depart from our Lake Bunyoni base in small groups over the next 3 to 4 days, depending on the size of our group.
From Bunyoni we wind our way through some of the most spectacular scenery in Africa, travelling to Kisoro town, our next overnight base. (If we are gorilla trekking in Rwanda our overnight stay will be in Ruhengeri). The next morning, we pack a picnic lunch and transfer to a ranger’s station, the starting point for our trek.
The rangers lead you through cultivated lands and onwards into the dense rain forest in search of a family of gorillas. Gorilla trekking can take anything from 45 minutes to 8 hours depending on how easy the gorillas are to locate. Trekking can be fairly strenuous; therefore it is necessary for participants to be reasonably fit.
We get to spend a maximum of one hour with the mountain gorillas, to ensure that the animals do not get too accustomed to humans and to protect them from any of our diseases. The visit allows for ample time to observe the gorillas from close range and take photographs of them. Your ranger will be able to give you the background on the particular gorilla family that you encounter. When your visit comes to an end you trek back through the rain forest to the meeting point, from where you are transferred back to our Lake Bunyoni base.
The increase in daily gorilla trekking plays a vital role in the conservation of these endangered mountain gorillas.
After years of being ruthlessly hunted for their hands and heads, to be sold as ashtrays and lampshades, tourism is helping to ensure the survival of this threatened species. Large numbers have also been killed while attempting to stop poachers from stealing baby gorillas to sell to zoos, where their lifespan is never long.
The entire cost of the gorilla trekking permits is used by the National Park authorities to protect the gorillas. The gorilla permit fee is used to fund patrolling, key to protecting the gorillas from poachers and deadly snares, as well as to promote awareness of these unique animals.
Lake Bunyoni, a nature lover’s delight, is the deepest Crater Lake in Africa. There are a number of activities for you to enjoy at Lake Bunyoni, while you wait for your turn to go gorilla trekking. These activities include: hiking in the hills of this beautiful area, canoeing on the lake or going on a bird watching walk in this birding paradise.
Or you can experience the local culture by visiting a nearby village or church or exploring the local markets of Kabale. You could also choose to take it easy, simply relaxing on the tranquil shores of Lake Bunyoni or taking a dip in its clean waters.
After the unforgettable gorilla trekking experience and soaking up the serenity of Lake Bunyoni, we start driving back to Kampala.
We then cross the Equator for the second time on our African camping safari and stop to capture the must-have "one foot in each hemisphere" classic photo. We overnight in Kampala and have the option of sampling the nightlife.
Today we have the option of visiting the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary or transferring to Jinja for activities.
In Jinja the selection of adventure activities includes that of white water rafting at the source of the White Nile, quad biking or volunteering at a community project. In the afternoon you can relax on the riverbanks spotting many of the wide variety of water birds found in this area.
With the 'Pearl of Africa' behind us we return to neighbouring Kenya, pausing along the way for supplies and lunch. Back in Kenya we sleep at a lovely campsite on a farm just outside of Nakuru, one of the country's largest towns and the capital of the Rift Valley Province.
The town of Nakuru is located next to the compact and wildlife-rich Lake Nakuru National Park.
This morning we stock up on supplies in Nakuru Town before beginning our exploration of the Lake Nakuru National Park. This Kenyan game park is famous for the thousands of lesser and greater flamingos that flock to the edge of its soda lake.
The flamingo numbers at Nakuru vary depending on the level of the water. This is a spectacular sight with the lake almost turning pink when the water is low. We spend the day looking for the frequently sighted black and white rhino. The park was established as a sanctuary for the resident rhino species. We also search for the more elusive leopard, seeing giraffe, buffalo, antelope species and sometimes hippos too.
After our game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park, we head to Lake Naivasha arriving in the late afternoon.
On day 48 we travel to the highest of the Rift Valley lakes, Lake Naivasha, at 1880 m. Lake Naivasha is home to a multitude of birds, including the African Fish Eagle with his regal cry.
We spend the day participating in optional excursions near Lake Naivasha, such as visiting Elsamere (former home to Joy & George Adamson of Born Free fame), a boat ride to the Crescent Island Game Sanctuary or a bike ride around Hell’s Gate National Park.
On the last day of this epic African Safari Adventure we share breakfast and head back to the camp in Nairobi arriving by the early afternoon. We exchange contact details and bid farewell to the friends and travel companions who shared this safari trip of a lifetime with us!
The remainder of the day is free for you to explore Nairobi and enjoy some of the numerous optional activities available in this vibrant city. You can visit The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, to see the orphaned baby Elephants at feeding time, head to the Giraffe Centre in Langata (if you haven’t had your fill of game viewing), take a day trip to Nairobi National Park or take a “Matatu” to the local curio markets.
Please Note:
This Budget African Safari begins in Johannesburg, South Africa and travels north through South Africa, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania and Uganda before ending in Nairobi, Kenya.
The budget camping safari departs from Johannesburg in South Africa early on Sunday morning. Should you wish to explore Johannesburg, an earlier arrival is recommended. Accommodation can be booked through African Budget Safaris. 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 safari trip.
For booking purposes please notify African Budget Safaris as soon as possible should you choose not to go Mountain Gorilla Trekking.
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]]>This Budget African Safari starts in Johannesburg, South Africa and travels north, exploring South Africa, Mozambique Zimbabwe, Botswana, Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania and Uganda before ending in Nairobi, Kenya.
Highlights on this Budget Camping Safari Adventure include:
The epic Gorillas, Beaches & African Wildlife Safari visits a whopping nine African countries and an abundance of top game parks and natural wonders over 49 days.
This budget camping safari sets off from Johannesburg travelling into the Lowveld of South Africa towards the renowned Kruger National Park. Our journey takes us through the southern part of the scenic Panorama Route – famous for its breathtaking views.
We enter Kruger Park in the late afternoon and enjoy our first game drive on the way to our campsite within the Kruger Park. Tonight we relax around the campfire at camp, getting a good night's rest before our early morning game drive in Kruger.
Today we explore the world-famous Kruger National Park on game viewing drives. This top African game park covers an area of 21 497 km2 (60 km wide and over 350 km long).
The vast Kruger Park conservation area is home to over 146 mammals, 500 bird, 114 reptile, 33 amphibian & 49 fish species. Around 23 000 different types of plants have also been recorded in this wilderness area.
We spend the day driving through Kruger Park in South Africa in search of the abundance of wildlife inhabiting the game reserve, stopping off at view points as we explore. Tonight we spend the evening at one of the southern camps in Kruger National Park, surrounded by the game-rich bush.
We hit the road early today, driving across the border we leave South Africa and travel to the warm Indian Ocean waters of the Mozambique coastline.
Our first stop in Mozambique is Inhambane, once the trade centre of Portuguese East Africa in colonial years. Today Maputo is the capital of Mozambique and the centre of its trade industry.
The beaches just outside of Inhambane are well known for their good scuba diving sites, by both locals and holidaymakers, due to the variety of reefs nearby.
You are free to spend the day at leisure soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Go diving to discover the abundant marine life along the coast, browse the bustling “Mecado Central” (central market), or explore the beaches on horseback.
Inhambane offers some of the best scuba diving in the world with reefs close to all of the beaches, including the famous Manta Reef and Gallaria. Marine sightings include Manta Rays, Whale Sharks, Turtles and a host of other marine life.
There are various professional scuba diving operators along this stretch of Mozambique coast and dives can be booked with them on arrival at the safari camp. For those wishing to see the spectacular marine life that are not able to dive, snorkelling is also excellent.
On day five of this African Budget Safari we take a leisurely drive up the coast of Mozambique to the picturesque Morrungulu Resort. The resort camp is set among coconut palm plantations, offering a truly tropical island feel – beware of falling coconuts!
Try out deep-sea fishing, or stroll along the lovely beach at Morrungulu.
The coastal town of Villanculous is the stepping stone to the three main islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago off Mozambique.
We spend the next two nights of our epic African journey in Vilanculous, to enable those who wish to take a boat charter to the smaller island of Magaruque to do so on day seven. Other activities include traditional Dhow sailing trips, sunset cruises, horse riding, big game fishing, whale watching (seasonal) and more.
Continuing our drive northwards we say farewell to the tropical coastline of Mozambique heading inland to Bandula.
Our drive on day eight takes us through more rural parts of Mozambique giving us the chance to see local Mozambican villages and farmsteads.
Arriving at our next overnight stop in the late afternoon, we set up camp on the banks of the Chicamba Dam.
Today we cross from Mozambique into Zimbabwe. A beautiful southern African country, rich in culture, history and tradition. We drive into the Zimbabwe Midlands, to the town of Gweru.
Here we stop over at Antelope Park. Rumour has it that “you have not been to Zimbabwe until you have visited the Victoria Falls… and the Antelope Park.”
Antelope Park offers a wide variety of game viewing activities in this wilderness area inhabited by lion, elephant, giraffe and of course numerous antelope (as the name suggests)! Seize the unique opportunity of walking with lions, riding or swimming with elephants, viewing game from horseback or from the back of a safari vehicle.
Enjoy close encounters with Africa’s wildlife and feel the thrill of a walk with lions, or a ride on elephant back at Antelope Park today.
In the evening you can venture into the bushes on a night game drive in Antelope Park!
From Gweru, we set off for Bulawayo, Zimbabwe’s second largest city. Bulawayo is known for its extra wide streets, originally designed for full span ox wagons.
The British Colonial influence can still be seen in Bulawayo, with many of the character buildings being preserved as heritage sites by the Bulawayo City Council. Places of interest worth visiting include, the Natural History Museum, the National Arts Gallery and the Mzilikazi Arts and Crafts Centre, which employs more than 70 people.
Today we drive north-west to the oldest and largest game park in Zimbabwe – Hwange National Park. Hwange Park is well known for its abundant and varied wildlife species, including thousands of elephants, and rare antelope species such as the Sable and Roan Antelope.
We embark on a rewarding game drive, in the late afternoon or early morning, to explore the wildlife haven of Hwange Park in search of resident wildlife species.
We leave Hwange Park and drive on to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe today.
Named after the famous World Heritage Site and Waterfall, the town of Victoria Falls is located along the Zambezi River, surrounded by the Victoria Falls National Park. Our safari campsite is conveniently situated in the centre of Victoria Falls town, within walking distance of the local restaurants, shops and booking agents for adventure activities.
A 20 minute walk takes you to the entry point for viewing the spectacular Vic Falls, falling between Zimbabwe and Zambia. Victoria Falls, or Mosi-oa-Tunya (the Smoke that Thunders), was named by the explorer David Livingstone and is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Victoria Falls is the world's largest sheet of falling water at 1700 m wide and about 100 m high. An awesome and memorable sight on any African Safari!
A short adventure activities brief is followed by an afternoon of leisure for you to unwind at the campsite’s swimming pool, view the mighty Victoria Falls, or explore the sights and delights of Vic Falls town!
For the next two days you are free to relax and explore the area as well as taking advantage of some of the fantastic Optional Adventure Activities at Victoria Falls.
Some of our fellow travellers may end their tour in Vic Falls and new passengers often join us for the next leg of our affordable African Safari.
Optional Excursions include elephant back safaris, horseback safaris, walking with lions, 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 River is world class. In addition to the excitement of the Grade 5 rapids, there are the "floats," where there is time to admire the towering cliffs and occasional wildlife on the riverbanks.
After breakfast we depart from Vic Falls crossing into Botswana and making our way to Kasane where we set up camp on the banks of the Chobe River.
Listen out for the resident hippos enjoying the waters of Chobe River, the major water source in Chobe National Park. The Chobe River forms a natural border between Botswana and Namibia and Zambia. Chobe National Park is one of Botswana’s premier game parks, renowned for its large herds of elephant.
We take a relaxing boat cruise along the Chobe River after lunch.
For the adventurous safari goers, there is the option of taking a Chobe National Park Sleep-out – an overnight experience in the Chobe National Park. After the boat cruise we return to Kasane and prepare for our Chobe National Park Overnight Trip into the wilds.
Arriving in Chobe Park we spend the afternoon in search of African wildlife on a game drive to our bush camp inside this top Botswana Game Park.
We spend the evening listening to the night-time noises of the local wildlife in the surrounding bush. Look out for the rare Sable and Roan Antelope on your game drive, with their impressive backward slanting horns, or try keep a count of the Lilac Breasted Roller’s swooping by!
After our night in the Botswana bush, we head out early on a game viewing drive in Chobe Park, before packing up the safari camp and heading back north to Kasane.
On our return to the camp in Kasane, we get back on our safari truck and continue to the Zambian town of Livingstone.
This afternoon we have the opportunity to view Victoria Falls from the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Zambia or partake in a sunset boat cruise on the Zambezi River. More fantastic photo opportunities!
Today we make an early start and head northwards, passing through villages and towns in southern Zambia en route to our next campsite. The night is spent camping on the outskirts of Lusaka, Zambia's capital city.
Zambia prospered during the copper boom in the 60’s and was able to establish extensive infrastructure in its main mining and farming communities. With the decline of the copper industry, the country was left virtually bankrupt and the infrastructure fell into ruine. But today Zambia is again starting to prosper, due to foreign investment and a resurgence in the mining industry. The rising prosperity can be seen in the cities of Zambia where foreign stores, banks and imported cars are increasing, but the villages and smaller towns are less cosmopolitan.
Some of the local wildlife such as the Eland, Africa's largest antelope, share the safari campsite with us!
Travelling on the old "East Road" we drive in a northeasterly direction from Lusaka, finding our way to a stunning campsite a mere 10 km from the border between Zambia and Malawi.
We follow what was once the route from Cape Town to Cairo that passes through Lusaka on its way to Malawi. While most of today is taken up by driving, we do cross the impressive Luangwa River Bridge which is closely guarded due to its close proximity to the Zimbabwean & Malawian borders.
We’ll also stop to stock up on some fresh produce and supplies from the local sellers along the way. We overnight at our lovely campsite, before heading into neighbouring Malawi.
Malawi is known as the 'Warm Heart of Africa' and next our safari takes us to find out why. We stop in the administrative centre and capital of Malawi, Lilongwe. Malawi is a landlocked country with 20% of its total area consisting of the beautiful, fresh-water Lake Malawi.
Over the next few days we travel the full length of the western side of Lake Malawi, stopping off at various bays and inlets. Days are spent relaxing on the unspoilt beaches, learning to play the game of bao from locals or bargain hunting at the markets.
The temperate climate of Malawi is suited to swimming all year round, so you can always take a dip in the clear blue waters. Explore the picturesque shores of Lake Malawi meeting local fishermen as they sort the fresh catch of the day. The fishermen still bring in their catch using traditional fishing techniques. The ‘fairy’ lights of the fishermens' boats twinkle out on the lake at night.
You can gain insight into the skill involved in handling one of the fishing boats by trying your hand at paddling a dug out canoe yourself. Excursions offered at the beachside campsites along Lake Malawi's shores include options such as water sports, horse riding and visits to the local school and village.
We leave Lake Malawi utterly relaxed after four days and enter Tanzania via the border post at Songwe. We take in the beauty of the Tukuyu banana and tea plantations of the area as we head for our next night's stop, Iringa.
The rustic 'Farmhouse' campsite in Iringa is famous for its Amarula Hot Chocolates and steamy showers, worth savouring.
After a good night's rest in Iringa we continue to the seaside town of Dar es Salaam.
We pass through the Mikumi National Park of Tanzania seeing a wide range of wildlife from the roadside. The wild animals appear impervious to passing traffic, which makes for fantastic game viewing.
Upon our arrival in Dar es Salaam, we find our lovely campsite set at the seaside and busy ourselves with preparations for the next stretch of our African journey. The next morning we embark on the trip to Zanzibar Island.
On day 26 we travel to Zanzibar on our optional excursion. From Dar es Salaam we take a ferry across to the "Spice Island," where we spend three nights.
Zanzibar has a colourful past once serving as one of the major departure points for most of the explorations into new territories of East Africa. New passengers may join us on our Zanzibar Trip, as some travel companions might opt to end their tour back in Dar es Salaam.
KINDLY NOTE:
The Zanzibar accommodation and meals costs are for your own account, as experience has shown that visitors prefer exploring the island unguided. Zanzibar hosts a wide selection of restaurants offering a variety of tasty meals. The Trip Leader joins you and can help with arranging accommodation in Zanzibar.
Zanzibar Island has a great range of activities to offer visitors, from quiet sightseeing to exciting water activities.
Explore a spice plantation, an interesting experience on Zanzibar, which is famous for its spices. The quaint streets of the old Stone Town of Zanzibar reveal traces of their Arabic history, from Medina-style shops to the impressive palaces that once belonged to powerful Sultans.
Other interesting activities include a day trip to the pristine beaches of Prison Island, to see its giant tortoises. A full day of scuba diving in Nungwe is well worth it, as is the experience of fishing in a traditional saiing dhow.
There are a variety of restaurants offering a fantastic array of fresh seafood straight from the ocean, with crayfish being a popular speciality. You can mingle with the locals at the seafront market of Forodhani Gardens, where inexpensive yet delicious seafood is available.
Departing from Zanzibar Island in the afternoon our relaxing beach trip comes to a close. We return to the shores of Tanzania by the early evening and spend the night at our safari camp in Dar es Salaam town.
From Dar es Salaam we travel through African bush and expansive sisal plantations on our way to the pleasant town of Arusha.
We pass The Pare and Usambara Mountain ranges before driving through Moshi town. Moshi is a great place from which to catch a glimpse of the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro on a clear day - a fantastic photo opportunity! The town of Moshi forms the base for climbing expeditions up Mount Kilimanjaro's slopes to its snowy summit. The night is spent camping in scenic Meserani on the outskirts of Arusha.
Next we have the option of taking an excursion to the legendary Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
Arusha town is located at the foot of Mount Meru and serves as the gateway for excursions to Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, Lake Manyara Park and the Serengeti Park. These game viewing excursions are run in locally operated 4WD safari vehicles that have been adapted for our African safari drives.
Explore the thriving town of Arusha in the morning if you like, while we stock up on supplies for our wildlife excursion. You can browse the vibrant craft markets, go shopping or perhaps catch up on the news back home at one of the small internet cafes.
Heading back to our base camp, Meserani Snake Park, those that are participating in the optional Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park Trip can prepare for their departure this afternoon.
For those choosing not to visit the Serengeti National Park & Ngorongoro Crater various alternative activities are available. You can explore the nearby town of Arusha and visit the Masai Cultural Museum, Meserani reptile park, or the surrounding villages and craft markets over the next two days of this Gorilla, Beaches & Wildlife African Safari.
The Optional Ngorongoro & Serengeti Trip goes to Karatu via the Masai town of Mtu Wa Mbu (Mosquito River) located next to Lake Manyara National Park. We journey up the Great Rift Valley Escarpment to Karatu, which is a higher lying village offering spectacular views over the surrounding hills.
Karatu has many well-established wheat farms adding to its picturesque scenery. We stay at pleasant campsite in Karatu overnight, departing early the following morning for the Ngorongoro Crater. Driving to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area we head deeper into the bush of the Ngorongoro Crater teeming with wildlife. This crater is a World Heritage Site boasting some of the best game viewing in Africa. Ngorongoro Crater game viewing opportunities include seeing the elusive Black Rhino.
We explore the Crater on a game drive before moving on down the crater rim and passing the 'Cradle of Mankind' en route to the Serengeti National Park. We cross the open African plains on the game drive through the southern and central areas of the Serengeti Park. Then we camp in the heart of the untamed bushveld surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness at night.
In the morning we take a thrilling game drive in Serengeti Park, admiring the surrounding landscape as we search for game in the area. With some luck we get to sight the famous 'Big 5' (elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion & leopard) of Africa on our Serengeti game drive. After the morning game drive, we retrace our steps crossing the vast plains and lush Ngorongoro Crater rim.
Back in Tanzania's Arusha we spend the evening recounting our thrilling tales of the wildlife encounters on the plains of Serengeti & Ngorongoro.
Driving north early this morning we head to the Tanzania-Kenyan border via the small border town of Namanga. Crossing into Kenya we journey to our next overnight campsite located on the outskirts of the Capital City of Nairobi.
The Safari Camp in Nairobi is ideally situated next to the Nairobi National Park, and is close to the giraffe sanctuary and elephant orphanage. The camp is also close to the famous Carnivore Restaurant.
Today is free for you to enjoy some of the many things to do in the bustling city of Nairobi.
Visit The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust to see the orphaned baby Elephants at feeding time, head to the Giraffe Centre in Langata for game viewing, then Nairobi National Park offers some great day trips or if you haven’t quite got all those souvenirs you wanted, take a “Matatu” to the local curio markets near the campsite. This evening you might like to try the fair on offer at the famous Carnivores restaurant.
Leaving the lively streets of Nairobi behind we climb the gentle slopes of the escarpment. Along the way we stop at a viewpoint overlooking the splendid Great Rift Valley.
We then descend into the Rift Valley, entering Masai territory where these habitual pastoralists are often seen tending their cattle along the roadside. We drive through the town of Narok, possibly sighting some wildlife as we head for our campsite outside of town. The Safari Camp overlooks the Meguarra hills and a meandering stream that forms a natural border with the Masai Mara National Reserve.
Departing shortly after sunrise we embark on a game drive into the Masai Mara Reserve. Kenya's Masai Mara is well known as one of East Africa’s best National Reserves and is home to a wide variety of wildlife species.
Mara is most famous for the Annual Wildebeest Migration, also called the Great Migration. This wildlife spectacle occurs when impressive herds of over 1 million wildebeest, zebra and Thomson’s gazelle stampede across the open plains from the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania to Masai Mara in Kenya.
Masai Mara is particularly popular between July and October when these huge herds of herbivores search for fresh grazing. These grazers in turn attract Africa’s predators, often seen at a kill during the migration. Our game drive takes us through a section of the Mara Park in search of Africa's ‘Big Five’- elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion & leopard; along with the many other species of animals, reptiles and birds inhabiting this wilderness area.
After our game drive in Masai Mara, we have the option of visiting one of the nearby Masai Manyatta’s – traditional hamlets where the Masai Tribe still live in their traditional way. In the evening we relax around the camp fire, watching the sun set over this African “Garden of Eden”.
The early morning sees us departing the Masai Mara Game Reserve, passing through the scenic tea plantations of Kericho before dipping off the Rift Valley Plateau.
We travel to Kenya's harbour town, Kisumu, located on the banks of Lake Victoria, the largest of Africa's lakes. Here we stock up on supplies and rest for the night.
Crossing the border from Kenya we travel into the striking African country of Uganda.
We stay in the capital city, Kampala, for our first night in Uganda. Uganda is a small country, covering diverse terrains. Habitats vary from fertile areas of greenery in the northern area around the shores of Lake Victoria to the snow-capped Ruwenzori Mountain peaks in the west and the captivating semi-desert region in the north of Uganda.
The political instability in Uganda over the past has inadvertently sheltered the country from the negative impacts of rampant commercialisation. The current administration has devoted considerable efforts and funds to restoring Uganda to its former position as one of Africa's most prosperous and alluring travel destinations. Uganda's appeal for tourists lies in its being less affected by commercialisation than other African countries, making it an interesting and unique country to visit.
On day 40 we depart from Kampala early in the morning heading west into the heart of beautiful Uganda.
Our next overnight base is located at the scenic Lake Bunyoni, “place of many little birds”. Around 200 bird species have been recorded at this tranquil lake dotted with islands.
From Lake Bunyoni we have the option of participating in exciting Gorilla Trekking excursions. The gorilla treks take place in the Magahinga or Bwindi National Parks (Uganda), Virunga National Park (Democratic Republic of Congo), or Ruhengeri National Park (Rwanda); depending on the availability of gorilla trekking permits.
The prices of the trekking permits change, sometimes without prior notice. The price is currently at US$500 depending on which National Park we are gorilla trekking in. The gorilla permit fee is used to help conserve these endangered animals. A local transport and handling fee is charged, at between US$65 and US$70 per person (this includes the return transfer and booking fee with the Wildlife Authority).
When gorilla trekking takes place in the DRC or Rwanda, we will also need to pay for the additional visa for either country, as well as renewing our Ugandan visa when we re-enter the country. The trip leader will advise at the pre-departure meeting as to where the permits have been secured, and will assist with the online visa application for Rwanda en-route if needed. Please take these costs into account when budgeting for the gorilla trekking excursions.
We also advise budgeting a little extra for tipping the local guides and game rangers. Please budget accordingly as payment for the trekking permit must be made in US$ cash at the pre-departure meeting.
With only about 700 mountain gorillas remaining, gorilla trekking is an extraordinary opportunity to encounter these gentle primates in the wild. On these unforgettable treks we get to watch the mountain gorilla (Gorilla Gorilla Berengei), one of our closest living relatives, in its natural habitat – a rare and unique wildlife experience! The gorillas are monitored on a daily basis giving the rangers a good idea of where to find these endangered primates at any given time. This said, sightings of the mountain gorillas cannot be guaranteed, as they are still free roaming wild animals.
These mountain gorillas share much of our DNA, therefore anyone with even the mildest cold or any transferable disease will not be permitted on the gorilla treks. There is an age restriction of a minimum of 16 years of age for trekking. The number of daily visitors allowed on the gorilla treks is limited, thus we depart from our Lake Bunyoni base in small groups over the next 3 to 4 days, depending on the size of our group.
From Bunyoni we wind our way through some of the most spectacular scenery in Africa, travelling to Kisoro town, our next overnight base. (If we are gorilla trekking in Rwanda our overnight stay will be in Ruhengeri). The next morning, we pack a picnic lunch and transfer to a ranger’s station, the starting point for our trek.
The rangers lead you through cultivated lands and onwards into the dense rain forest in search of a family of gorillas. Gorilla trekking can take anything from 45 minutes to 8 hours depending on how easy the gorillas are to locate. Trekking can be fairly strenuous; therefore it is necessary for participants to be reasonably fit.
We get to spend a maximum of one hour with the mountain gorillas, to ensure that the animals do not get too accustomed to humans and to protect them from any of our diseases. The visit allows for ample time to observe the gorillas from close range and take photographs of them. Your ranger will be able to give you the background on the particular gorilla family that you encounter. When your visit comes to an end you trek back through the rain forest to the meeting point, from where you are transferred back to our Lake Bunyoni base.
The increase in daily gorilla trekking plays a vital role in the conservation of these endangered mountain gorillas.
After years of being ruthlessly hunted for their hands and heads, to be sold as ashtrays and lampshades, tourism is helping to ensure the survival of this threatened species. Large numbers have also been killed while attempting to stop poachers from stealing baby gorillas to sell to zoos, where their lifespan is never long.
The entire cost of the gorilla trekking permits is used by the National Park authorities to protect the gorillas. The gorilla permit fee is used to fund patrolling, key to protecting the gorillas from poachers and deadly snares, as well as to promote awareness of these unique animals.
Lake Bunyoni, a nature lover’s delight, is the deepest Crater Lake in Africa. There are a number of activities for you to enjoy at Lake Bunyoni, while you wait for your turn to go gorilla trekking. These activities include: hiking in the hills of this beautiful area, canoeing on the lake or going on a bird watching walk in this birding paradise.
Or you can experience the local culture by visiting a nearby village or church or exploring the local markets of Kabale. You could also choose to take it easy, simply relaxing on the tranquil shores of Lake Bunyoni or taking a dip in its clean waters.
After the unforgettable gorilla trekking experience and soaking up the serenity of Lake Bunyoni, we start driving back to Kampala.
We then cross the Equator for the second time on our African camping safari and stop to capture the must-have "one foot in each hemisphere" classic photo. We overnight in Kampala and have the option of sampling the nightlife.
Today we have the option of visiting the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary or transferring to Jinja for activities.
In Jinja the selection of adventure activities includes that of white water rafting at the source of the White Nile, quad biking or volunteering at a community project. In the afternoon you can relax on the riverbanks spotting many of the wide variety of water birds found in this area.
With the 'Pearl of Africa' behind us we return to neighbouring Kenya, pausing along the way for supplies and lunch. Back in Kenya we sleep at a lovely campsite on a farm just outside of Nakuru, one of the country's largest towns and the capital of the Rift Valley Province.
The town of Nakuru is located next to the compact and wildlife-rich Lake Nakuru National Park.
This morning we stock up on supplies in Nakuru Town before beginning our exploration of the Lake Nakuru National Park. This Kenyan game park is famous for the thousands of lesser and greater flamingos that flock to the edge of its soda lake.
The flamingo numbers at Nakuru vary depending on the level of the water. This is a spectacular sight with the lake almost turning pink when the water is low. We spend the day looking for the frequently sighted black and white rhino. The park was established as a sanctuary for the resident rhino species. We also search for the more elusive leopard, seeing giraffe, buffalo, antelope species and sometimes hippos too.
After our game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park, we head to Lake Naivasha arriving in the late afternoon.
On day 48 we travel to the highest of the Rift Valley lakes, Lake Naivasha, at 1880 m. Lake Naivasha is home to a multitude of birds, including the African Fish Eagle with his regal cry.
We spend the day participating in optional excursions near Lake Naivasha, such as visiting Elsamere (former home to Joy & George Adamson of Born Free fame), a boat ride to the Crescent Island Game Sanctuary or a bike ride around Hell’s Gate National Park.
On the last day of this epic African Safari Adventure we share breakfast and head back to the camp in Nairobi arriving by the early afternoon. We exchange contact details and bid farewell to the friends and travel companions who shared this safari trip of a lifetime with us!
The remainder of the day is free for you to explore Nairobi and enjoy some of the numerous optional activities available in this vibrant city. You can visit The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, to see the orphaned baby Elephants at feeding time, head to the Giraffe Centre in Langata (if you haven’t had your fill of game viewing), take a day trip to Nairobi National Park or take a “Matatu” to the local curio markets.
Please Note:
This Budget African Safari begins in Johannesburg, South Africa and travels north through South Africa, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania and Uganda before ending in Nairobi, Kenya.
The budget camping safari departs from Johannesburg in South Africa early on Sunday morning. Should you wish to explore Johannesburg, an earlier arrival is recommended. Accommodation can be booked through African Budget Safaris. 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 safari trip.
Click the image to enlarge
]]>This Budget African Safari begins in Nairobi, Kenya and travels south, exploring Tanzania, Zanzibar, Malawi, Zambia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique, before ending in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Highlights on this Budget Camping Safari through Africa include:
This unforgettable Explore Southern & East Africa Safari visits a whopping eight African countries and an abundance of top game parks and natural wonders over 35 days.
This morning we begin our epic wildlife, beach and scenic trip, the Explore Southern & East Africa Safari. Departing from Nairobi we travel south, crossing into Tanzania at Namanga border post.
We stay at a lovely campsite in Meserani on the outskirts of Arusha for the night. Tomorrow we will be embarking on our memorable Serengeti Park and Ngorongoro Crater trip.
Arusha town is located at the foot of Mount Meru and serves as the gateway for excursions to Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, Lake Manyara Park and the Serengeti Park. These game viewing excursions are run in locally operated 4WD safari vehicles that have been adapted for our African safari drives.
Explore the thriving town of Arusha in the morning if you like, while we stock up on supplies for our Tanzanian wildlife excursion. You can browse the vibrant craft markets, go shopping or perhaps catch up on the news back home at one of the small internet cafes.
Heading back to our base camp, Meserani Snake Park, those that are participating in the optional Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park Trip can prepare for their departure this afternoon.
For those choosing not to visit the Serengeti National Park & Ngorongoro Crater various alternative activities are available. You can explore the nearby town of Arusha and visit the Masai Cultural Museum, Meserani reptile park, or the surrounding villages and craft markets over the next two days of this Gorilla, Beaches & Wildlife African Safari.
The Optional Ngorongoro & Serengeti Trip goes to Karatu via the Masai town of Mtu Wa Mbu (Mosquito River) located next to Lake Manyara National Park. We journey up the Great Rift Valley Escarpment to Karatu, a higher lying village offering spectacular views over the surrounding hills.
Karatu has many well-established wheat farms adding to its picturesque scenery. We stay at pleasant campsite in Karatu overnight, departing early the following morning for the Ngorongoro Crater. Driving to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area we head deeper into the bush of the Ngorongoro Crater teeming with wildlife. This crater is a World Heritage Site boasting some of the best game viewing in Africa. Ngorongoro Crater game viewing opportunities include seeing the elusive Black Rhino.
We explore the Crater on a game drive before moving on down the crater rim and passing the 'Cradle of Mankind' en route to the Serengeti National Park. We cross the open African plains on the game drive through the southern and central areas of the Serengeti Park. Then we camp in the heart of the untamed bushveld surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness at night.
In the morning we take a thrilling game drive in Serengeti Park, admiring the surrounding landscape as we search for game in the area. With some luck we get to sight the famous 'Big Five' of Africa (elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion & leopard) on our Serengeti game drive.
After the morning game drive, we retrace our steps crossing the vast plains and lush Ngorongoro Crater rim.
Back in Tanzania's Arusha we spend the evening recounting our thrilling tales of the wildlife encounters on the plains of Serengeti & Ngorongoro.
The Explore Southern & East Africa Safari takes us into Arusha this morning to stock up on supplies before driving south towards Dar es Salaam, on the coast of Tanzania.
We travel through Moshi, a town at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro – Africa’s highest mountain. Moshi serves as the base for Mount Kilimanjaro climbing expeditions, and we may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of this magnificent mountain’s snowy summit from the town. The views of towering Kilimanjaro from Moshi offer fantastic photo opportunities!
Passing through vast sisal plantations flanked by the Usambara and Pare Mountain ranges we continue south on our safari adventure. Our lovely overnight campsite tucked between the mountains, lies halfway between Arusha and Dar es Salaam.
Travelling via lush countryside landscapes with palm trees, we reach our next safari destination, Dar es Salaam.
The pace of our drive to the warm Indian Ocean slows as we enter the outskirts of Dar es Salaam, taking in the interesting sights and sounds of Dar’s vibrant outer suburbs as we go. Keep an eye out for the brightly coloured shop-fronts decorated with humorous ‘catch phrases’.
Arriving in Dar es Salaam on the east coast of Africa we head to our pleasant seaside campsite and have time to prepare for our trip to Zanzibar the following morning.
On day seven we travel to Zanzibar on our optional island excursion. From Dar es Salaam we take a ferry across to the "Spice Island" where we spend three nights.
Zanzibar has a colourful past, as one of the major departure points for most of the explorations into new territories of East Africa, in times gone by. New passengers may join us on our Zanzibar Trip, as some travel companions might opt to end their tour of Africa back in Dar es Salaam.
The Zanzibar accommodation and meals costs are for your own account, as experience has shown that visitors prefer exploring the island unguided. Zanzibar hosts a wide selection of restaurants offering a variety of tasty meals. The Trip Leader joins you and can help with arranging accommodation in Zanzibar.
For those not taking the optional trip to the island of Zanzibar, the next three days are spent relaxing at the beach campsite in Dar es Salaam. There are various optional excursions available from the safari camp including diving, snorkelling and fishing trips along the coast of Tanzania. The driver and cook remain behind in Dar es Salaam during the Zanzibar Excursion.
Zanzibar Island has a great range of activities to offer visitors, from quiet sightseeing to exciting water activities.
Explore one of the spice plantations, an interesting experience on Zanzibar, which is famous for its exotic spices. The quaint streets of the old Stone Town of Zanzibar reveal traces of their Arabic history, from Medina-style shops to the impressive palaces that once belonged to powerful Sultans.
Other interesting activities on Zanzibar Island include a day trip to the pristine beaches of Prison Island, to see its giant tortoises. A full day of scuba diving in Nungwe is well worth it, as is the experience of fishing in a traditional saiing dhow.
There are a variety of restaurants offering a fantastic array of fresh seafood straight from the ocean, with crayfish being a popular speciality. You can mingle with the locals at the seafront market of Forodhani Gardens, where inexpensive yet delicious seafood is available.
Departing from the tropical Zanzibar Island in the afternoon our exciting beach trip comes to a close. We return to the shores of Tanzania by the early evening feeling rejuvenated and relaxed.
We spend the night catching up with fellow travellers at our safari camp in Dar es Salaam town.
On the morning of day 11 we set off from coastal Dar es Salaam making our way further south.
En route we drive through the inland Mikumi National Park, home to a variety of wildlife. The wildlife in Mikumi is quite accustomed to the passing traffic, which makes sighting the animals easier as we drive through the game park.
We continue to Iringa, our next overnight stop on this Explore Southern & East Africa Safari. The night is spent at a scenic and rustic campsite famous for its Amarula Hot Chocolates and steamy hot showers!
We follow the winding road through the Tukuyu tea and banana plantations admiring this beautiful region of Tanzania as we travel.
Next, we cross into Malawi entering the ‘Warm Heart of Africa’ via the Songwe border post.
Malawi is a landlocked country with 20% of its total area consisting of the beautiful, fresh-water Lake Malawi.
Over the next few days we travel the full length of the western side of Lake Malawi, stopping off at various bays and inlets. Days are spent relaxing on the unspoilt beaches, learning to play the game of bao from locals or bargain hunting at the markets.
The temperate climate of Malawi is suited to swimming all year round, so you can always take a dip in the clear blue waters. Explore the picturesque shores of Lake Malawi meeting local fishermen as they sort the fresh catch of the day. The fishermen still bring in their catch using traditional fishing techniques. The ‘fairy’ lights of the fishermens' boats twinkle out on the lake at night.
You can gain insight into the skill involved in handling one of the fishing boats by trying your hand at paddling a dug out canoe yourself. Excursions offered at the beachside campsites along Lake Malawi's shores include options such as water sports, horse riding and visits to the local school and village.
Leaving lovely Lake Malawi and its friendly people behind, we drive to the capital of Malawi, Lilongwe. This small city has a distinct old town and a new administrative centre.
We replenish our supplies before travelling into neighbouring Zambia - the next stop on this African Budget Safari. We make our way to a beautiful little campsite just 10 km from the Malawi and Zambia border, where we stay overnight.
Driving south-west from Chipata along the Great East Road we head to our overnight campsite located on the fringes of Lusaka, Zambia’s capital city.
On our drive we cross the impressive Luangwa River Bridge near the Zimbabwe-Malawi border and travel via some rural villages and towns in Zambia today.
Zambia prospered during the copper boom in the 60’s and established extensive infrastructure in its main mining and farming communities. After a subsequent decline in the copper industry, Zambia is once again starting to prosper, due to foreign investment and a resurgence in the mining industry.
Some of the local wildlife such as the Eland, Africa's largest antelope, share the safari campsite with us!
Continuing our journey south through Zambia, we pass through southern Zambian farming and agricultural towns en route to Livingstone.
Victoria Falls or Mosi-oa-Tunya, the Smoke that Thunders, is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Vic Falls is the world's largest sheet of falling water at 1700 m wide and around 100 m high. Seeing Vic Falls is a highlight of any African Safari!
We can witness this spectacular natural wonder from the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park in Zambia - a superb photographic opportunity. In the evening we can enjoy a relaxing sunset dinner cruise on the mighty Zambezi River.
Saying goodbye to truly African Zambia we head into one of Africa's top Safari Countries, Botswana, at the Kazangula Ferry crossing.
Once in Botswana we drive to the northern town of Kasane, located on the banks of the Chobe River. Chobe River, home to hippos and other wildlife, forms a natural border between Botswana, Namibia and Zambia.
After lunch we take a relaxing boat cruise on the Chobe River, the main source of water in Chobe National Park. Returning from our boat cruise we prepare for our overnight Chobe National Park trip.
Then we make our way into this top Botswana game reserve for our overnight experience in the African wilderness of Chobe National Park. Chobe Park is one of the premier game parks in Botswana, renowned for its large herds of migratory elephants.
In the afternoon we explore Chobe on a game drive en route to our safari camp inside the game park. On the game viewing drive rare Sable and Roan Antelope are often sighted, keep an eye out for their destinct backward slanting horns, or watch the numerous swooping Lilac Breasted Rollers!
We spend the evening musing over our wildlife encounters in Chobe Park and listening to the night sounds of nearby wildlife, interspersed by the silence of the African bush.
Getting up early after our night in the Botswana bush, we set off on a morning game drive in search of Chobe's wildlife. After our rewarding game drive we pack up camp and travel back to the town of Kasane.
Back at the Kasane camp we transfer to our safari truck and take the short drive to the Zimbabwe border. Border formalities behind us, we cover the last bit of ground to nearby Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.
Named after the famous World Heritage Site and Waterfall, the town of Victoria Falls is located along the Zambezi River, surrounded by the Victoria Falls National Park. Our safari campsite is conveniently situated in the centre of Victoria Falls town, within walking distance of the local restaurants, shops and booking agents for adventure activities.
A 20 minute walk takes you to the entry point for viewing the spectacular Vic Falls, falling between Zimbabwe and Zambia. Victoria Falls, or Mosi-oa-Tunya (the Smoke that Thunders), was named by the explorer David Livingstone and is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Victoria Falls is the world's largest sheet of falling water at 1700 m wide and about 100 m high. An awesome and memorable sight on any African Safari!
A short adventure activities brief is followed by an afternoon of leisure for you to unwind at the campsite’s swimming pool, view the mighty Victoria Falls, or explore the sights and delights of Vic Falls town!
For the next two days you are free to relax and explore the area as well as taking advantage of some of the fantastic Optional Adventure Activities at Victoria Falls.
Some of our fellow travellers may end their tour in Vic Falls and new passengers often join us for the next stretch of our African Camping Safari.
Optional Excursions include elephant back safaris, horseback safaris, walking with lions, 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!
Flights over Vic Falls in fixed wing, micro light and ultra light aircraft or helicopters provide an aerial perspective of this magnificent World Heritage Site, all year round. White water rafting on the Zambezi River is world class. In addition to the excitement of the Grade 5 rapids, there are the "floats," where there is time to admire the towering cliffs and occasional wildlife on the Zambezi riverbanks.
Continuing our African Camping Safari early in the morning, we travel to Zimbabwe’s oldest and largest game reserve, Hwange National Park. Hwange Park is renowned for its diverse and plentiful wildlife species, including thousands of elephants, along with rare Sable and Roan Antelope species.
Arriving at this well-known Zimbabwean game park we enjoy lunch, before embarking on an exciting game drive in Hwange Park. We explore the untamed wilderness area in search of its varied wildlife species.
Day 24 sees us rising with the sun and heading off into Hwange Park to explore this reserve some more, before departing for Bulawayo in the mid-morning.
Bulawayo is the second largest city in Zimbabwe and is characterized by wide streets, originally designed to accommodate full span ox wagons.
The rich British Colonial influences can still be seen in the city's old buildings that have been maintained as heritage sites by the Bulawayo City Council. Places of interest include the Natural History Museum, the National Arts Gallery and the Mzilikazi Arts and Crafts Centre, employing over 70 people.
Stock up on supplies and explore the city, before we hit the road for our next safari stop - Gweru, in Zimbabwe’s Midlands.
Our African Wildlife, Beaches & Gorilla Safari takes us to the Antelope Park where we stay over for tonight.
Some say that you haven't really been to Zimbabwe until you have visited the famous Victoria Falls, and Antelope Park - a must-visit on a Zimbabwe visit. This area of Zimbabwe offers open game viewing drives and much more, boasting a wide range of game viewing opportunities.
From the unique chance to walk with lions in the bush, to taking a swim or ride on elephant back or going game viewing on horseback.
These game viewing activities help fund the ALERT project, aimed at conserving African lions. The Antelope Park area is home to lions, elephants, giraffes and, of course, numerous antelopes!
Today we enjoy some game viewing activities and have the chance to get up close to Africa’s wildlife at Antelope Park.
Take a thrilling walk with lions, ride through bush and water on elephant back, or venture out on a night game drive!
Moving on from the special Antelope Park, we drive across Zimbabwe’s Eastern Highlands to Mozambique.
Passing the town of Mutare, we continue to our first Mozambique campsite, set on the banks of Lake Chicamba.
Lake Chicamba is a popular Angling destination, located where the Revue and Messica Rivers meet.
This Mozambiquan lake is well-stocked with big Bass, Carp, Bream and Catfish, making it an Anglers paradise!
From Bandula we travel to Vilanculous on the tropical coast of Mozambique.
Villanculous is the base for excursions to the Bazaruto Archipelago's three main islands. We arrive at the coastline of the warm Indian Ocean in the afternoon and spend the next two nights here.
From Villanculous you have the chance to take a boat charter out to the smaller Bazaruto island of Magaruque for the day.
Dhow sailing trips, sunset cruises, horse riding, big game fishing, seasonal whale watching and other activities are also available at Vilanculous.
We take a leisurely drive down the coast of Mozambique to the picturesque Morrungulu Resort today.
The resort camp is nestled among coconut palm plantations, offering a truly tropical island feel – but beware of falling coconuts! Try out deep-sea fishing, or simply enjoy a relaxing stroll along the beach.
Today we keep travelling south down the coast of Mozambique towards our next safari destination. The next two days on this African Budget Safari are spent in Inhambane, the centre of trade in Portuguese East Africa during colonial years. Today Maputo is the capital of Mozambique, as well as the trade centre.
The beaches just outside of Inhambane are well known for their good scuba diving sites, due to the variety of reefs nearby.
You are free to spend the day at leisure soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Go diving to discover the abundant marine life along the coast, browse the bustling “Mecado Central” (central market), or explore the beaches on horseback.
Inhambane offers some of the best scuba diving in the world with reefs close to all of the beaches, including the famous Manta Reef and Gallaria. Marine sightings include Manta Rays, Whale Sharks, Turtles and a host of other marine life.
There are various professional scuba diving operators along this stretch of Mozambique coast and dives can be booked with them on arrival at the safari camp. For those wishing to see the spectacular marine life that are not able to dive, snorkelling is also excellent.
Driving further south we cross the border into South Africa, leaving the warm waters of the inviting Mozambique coast behind.
We make our way to the world-famous Kruger National Park teeming with wildlife. Entering this top top African game park in the late afternoon, an exhilarating game drive brings us to our safari campsite inside Kruger Park.
In the evening we relax around the camp fire and get a good night's rest before our morning game drive in Kruger tomorrow.
Today we explore the premier Kruger National Park on game viewing drives. This leading African game park covers an area of 21 497 km2 (60 km wide and over 350 km long).
The vast Kruger Park conservation area is home to over 146 mammals, 500 bird, 114 reptile, 33 amphibian & 49 fish species. Around 23 000 different types of plants have also been recorded in this wilderness area.
We spend the day driving through Kruger Park in South Africa in search of the abundance of wildlife inhabiting the game reserve, stopping off at view points as we explore. Tonight we spend the evening at one of the southern camps in Kruger National Park, surrounded by the game-rich bush.
Our Explore Southern & East Africa Safari departs from the Kruger Park region travelling via the southern section of the picturesque Panorama Route to our final destination, Johannesburg. We arrive in the late afternoon where this African Camping Safari finishes on arrival at a selected Backpacker Lodge in Benoni.
We recommend that you extend your stay by a few days to participate in some of the exciting activities available in Johannesburg. Post tour accommodation can be booked through African Budget Safaris.
This Budget African Safari begins in Nairobi, Kenya, and travels south through Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Botswana, ending in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The Budget Camping Safari departs from Nairobi in Kenya early on Sunday morning. Should you wish to explore Nairobi, an earlier arrival is recommended. Accommodation can be booked through African Budget Safaris. 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 safari trip.
Click the image to enlarge
]]>This Budget Camping Safari begins in Johannesburg, South Africa and travels north, exploring South Africa, Mozambique Zimbabwe, Botswana, Zambia, Malawi and Tanzania before ending in Nairobi, Kenya.
Highlights on this Budget African Safari Adventure include:
The Beaches & Wildlife Adventure of this Southern & East African Budget Safari travels through eight African countries, exploring numerous top game parks, beaches and natural wonders over 35 days.
This budget camping safari departs from Johannesburg travelling into the Lowveld of South Africa towards the renowned Kruger National Park. Our journey takes us through the southern part of the scenic Panorama Route – famous for its breathtaking views.
We enter Kruger Park in the late afternoon and enjoy our first game drive on the way to our campsite within the Kruger Park. Tonight we relax around the campfire at camp, getting a good night's rest before our early morning game drive in Kruger.
Today we explore the world-famous Kruger National Park on game viewing drives. This top African game park covers an area of 21 497 km2 (60 km wide and over 350 km long).
The vast Kruger Park conservation area is home to over 146 mammals, 500 bird, 114 reptile, 33 amphibian & 49 fish species. Around 23 000 different types of plants have also been recorded in this wilderness area.
We spend the day driving through Kruger Park in South Africa in search of the abundance of wildlife inhabiting the game reserve, stopping off at view points as we explore. Tonight we spend the evening at one of the southern camps in Kruger National Park, surrounded by the game-rich bush.
We hit the road early today, driving across the border we leave South Africa and travel to the warm Indian Ocean waters of the Mozambique coastline.
Our first stop in Mozambique is Inhambane, once the trade centre of Portuguese East Africa in colonial years. Today Maputo is the capital of Mozambique and the centre of its trade industry.
The beaches just outside of Inhambane are well known for their good scuba diving sites, by both locals and holidaymakers, due to the variety of reefs nearby.
You are free to spend the day at leisure soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Go diving to discover the abundant marine life along the coast, browse the bustling “Mecado Central” (central market), or explore the beaches on horseback.
Inhambane offers some of the best scuba diving in the world with reefs close to all of the beaches, including the famous Manta Reef and Gallaria. Marine sightings include Manta Rays, Whale Sharks, Turtles and a host of other marine life.
There are various professional scuba diving operators along this stretch of Mozambique coast and dives can be booked with them on arrival at the safari camp. For those wishing to see the spectacular marine life that are not able to dive, snorkelling is also excellent.
On day five of this African Budget Safari we take a leisurely drive up the coast of Mozambique to the picturesque Morrungulu Resort. The resort camp is set among coconut palm plantations, offering a truly tropical island feel – beware of falling coconuts!
Try out deep-sea fishing, or stroll along the lovely beach at Morrungulu.
The coastal town of Villanculous is the stepping stone to the three main islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago off Mozambique.
We spend the next two nights of our epic African journey in Vilanculous, to enable those who wish to take a boat charter to the smaller island of Magaruque to do so on day seven. Other activities include traditional Dhow sailing trips, sunset cruises, horse riding, big game fishing, whale watching (seasonal) and more.
Continuing our drive northwards we say farewell to the tropical coastline of Mozambique heading inland to Bandula.
Our drive on day eight takes us through more rural parts of Mozambique giving us the chance to see local Mozambican villages and farmsteads.
Arriving at our next overnight stop in the late afternoon, we set up camp on the banks of the Chicamba Dam.
Today we cross from Mozambique into Zimbabwe. A beautiful southern African country, rich in culture, history and tradition. We drive into the Zimbabwe Midlands, to the town of Gweru.
Here we stop over at Antelope Park. Rumour has it that “you have not been to Zimbabwe until you have visited Victoria Falls… and Antelope Park.”
Antelope Park offers a wide variety of game viewing activities in this wilderness area inhabited by lion, elephant, giraffe and of course numerous antelope (as the name suggests)! Seize the unique opportunity of walking with lions, riding or swimming with elephants, viewing game from horseback or from the back of a safari vehicle.
Enjoy close encounters with Africa’s wildlife and feel the thrill of a walk with lions, or a ride on elephant back at Antelope Park today.
In the evening you can venture into the bushes on a night game drive in Antelope Park!
From Gweru, we set off for Bulawayo, Zimbabwe’s second largest city. Bulawayo is known for its extra wide streets, originally designed for full span ox wagons.
The British Colonial influence can still be seen in Bulawayo, with many of the character buildings being preserved as heritage sites by the Bulawayo City Council. Places of interest worth visiting include, the Natural History Museum, the National Arts Gallery and the Mzilikazi Arts and Crafts Centre, which employs more than 70 people.
Today we drive north-west to the oldest and largest game park in Zimbabwe – Hwange National Park. Hwange Park is well known for its abundant and varied wildlife species, including thousands of elephants, and rare antelope species such as the Sable and Roan Antelope.
We embark on a rewarding game drive, in the late afternoon or early morning, to explore the wildlife haven of Hwange Park in search of resident wildlife species.
We leave Hwange Park and drive on to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe today.
Named after the famous World Heritage Site and Waterfall, the town of Victoria Falls is located along the Zambezi River, surrounded by the Victoria Falls National Park. Our safari campsite is conveniently situated in the centre of Victoria Falls town, within walking distance of the local restaurants, shops and booking agents for adventure activities.
A 20 minute walk takes you to the entry point for viewing the spectacular Vic Falls, falling between Zimbabwe and Zambia. Victoria Falls, or Mosi-oa-Tunya (the Smoke that Thunders), was named by the explorer David Livingstone and is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Victoria Falls is the world's largest sheet of falling water at 1700 m wide and about 100 m high. An awesome and memorable sight on any African Safari!
A short adventure activities brief is followed by an afternoon of leisure for you to unwind at the campsite’s swimming pool, view the mighty Victoria Falls, or explore the sights and delights of Vic Falls town!
For the next two days you are free to relax and explore the area as well as taking advantage of some of the fantastic Optional Adventure Activities at Victoria Falls.
Some of our fellow travellers may end their tour in Vic Falls and new passengers often join us for the next leg of our affordable African Safari.
Optional Excursions include elephant back safaris, horseback safaris, walking with lions, 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 River is world class. In addition to the excitement of the Grade 5 rapids, there are the "floats," where there is time to admire the towering cliffs and occasional wildlife on the riverbanks.
After breakfast we depart from Vic Falls crossing into Botswana and making our way to Kasane where we set up camp on the banks of the Chobe River.
Listen out for the resident hippos enjoying the waters of Chobe River, the major water source in Chobe National Park. The Chobe River forms a natural border between Botswana and Namibia and Zambia. Chobe National Park is one of Botswana’s premier game parks, renowned for its large herds of elephant.
We take a relaxing boat cruise along the Chobe River after lunch.
For the adventurous safari goers, there is the option of taking a Chobe National Park Sleep-out – an overnight experience in the Chobe National Park. After the boat cruise we return to Kasane and prepare for our Chobe National Park Overnight Trip into the wilds.
Arriving in Chobe Park we spend the afternoon in search of African wildlife on a game drive to our bush camp inside this top Botswana Game Park.
We spend the evening listening to the night-time noises of the local wildlife in the surrounding bush. Look out for the rare Sable and Roan Antelope on your game drive, with their impressive backward slanting horns, or try keep a count of the Lilac Breasted Roller’s swooping by!
After our night in the Botswana bush, we head out early on a game viewing drive in Chobe Park, before packing up the safari camp and heading back north to Kasane.
On our return to the camp in Kasane, we get back on our safari truck and continue to the Zambian town of Livingstone.
This afternoon we have the opportunity to view Victoria Falls from the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Zambia or partake in a sunset boat cruise on the Zambezi River. More fantastic photo opportunities!
Today we make an early start and head northwards, passing through villages and towns in southern Zambia en route to our next campsite. The night is spent camping on the outskirts of Lusaka, Zambia's capital city.
Zambia prospered during the copper boom in the 60’s and was able to establish extensive infrastructure in its main mining and farming communities. With the decline of the copper industry, the country was left virtually bankrupt and the infrastructure fell into ruine. But today Zambia is again starting to prosper, due to foreign investment and a resurgence in the mining industry. The rising prosperity can be seen in the cities of Zambia where foreign stores, banks and imported cars are increasing, but the villages and smaller towns are less cosmopolitan.
Some of the local wildlife such as the Eland, Africa's largest antelope, share the safari campsite with us!
Travelling on the old "East Road" we drive in a northeasterly direction from Lusaka, finding our way to a stunning campsite a mere 10 km from the border between Zambia and Malawi.
We follow what was once the route from Cape Town to Cairo that passes through Lusaka on its way to Malawi. While most of today is taken up by driving, we do cross the impressive Luangwa River Bridge which is closely guarded due to its close proximity to the Zimbabwean & Malawian borders.
We’ll also stop to stock up on some fresh produce and supplies from the local sellers along the way. We overnight at our lovely campsite, before heading into neighbouring Malawi.
Malawi is known as the 'Warm Heart of Africa' and next our safari takes us to find out why. We stop in the administrative centre and capital of Malawi, Lilongwe. Malawi is a landlocked country with 20% of its total area consisting of the beautiful, fresh-water Lake Malawi.
Over the next few days we travel the full length of the western side of Lake Malawi, stopping off at various bays and inlets. Days are spent relaxing on the unspoilt beaches, learning to play the game of bao from locals or bargain hunting at the markets.
The temperate climate of Malawi is suited to swimming all year round, so you can always take a dip in the clear blue waters. Explore the picturesque shores of Lake Malawi meeting local fishermen as they sort the fresh catch of the day. The fishermen still bring in their catch using traditional fishing techniques. The ‘fairy’ lights of the fishermens' boats twinkle out on the lake at night.
You can gain insight into the skill involved in handling one of the fishing boats by trying your hand at paddling a dug out canoe yourself. Excursions offered at the beachside campsites along Lake Malawi's shores include options such as water sports, horse riding and visits to the local school and village.
We leave Lake Malawi utterly relaxed after four days and enter Tanzania via the border post at Songwe. We take in the beauty of the Tukuyu banana and tea plantations of the area as we head for our next night's stop, Iringa.
The rustic 'Farmhouse' campsite in Iringa is famous for its Amarula Hot Chocolates and steamy showers, worth savouring.
After a good night's rest in Iringa we continue to the seaside town of Dar es Salaam.
We pass through the Mikumi National Park of Tanzania seeing a wide range of wildlife from the roadside. The wild animals appear impervious to passing traffic, which makes for fantastic game viewing.
Upon our arrival in Dar es Salaam, we find our lovely campsite set at the seaside and busy ourselves with preparations for the next stretch of our African journey. The next morning we embark on the trip to Zanzibar Island.
On day 26 we travel to Zanzibar on our optional excursion. From Dar es Salaam we take a ferry across to the "Spice Island," where we spend three nights.
Zanzibar has a colourful past once serving as one of the major departure points for most of the explorations into new territories of East Africa. New passengers may join us on our Zanzibar Trip, as some travel companions might opt to end their tour back in Dar es Salaam.
KINDLY NOTE:
The Zanzibar accommodation and meals costs are for your own account, as experience has shown that visitors prefer exploring the island unguided. Zanzibar hosts a wide selection of restaurants offering a variety of tasty meals. The Trip Leader joins you and can help with arranging accommodation in Zanzibar.
Zanzibar Island has a great range of activities to offer visitors, from quiet sightseeing to exciting water activities.
Explore a spice plantation, an interesting experience on Zanzibar, which is famous for its spices. The quaint streets of the old Stone Town of Zanzibar reveal traces of their Arabic history, from Medina-style shops to the impressive palaces that once belonged to powerful Sultans.
Other interesting activities include a day trip to the pristine beaches of Prison Island, to see its giant tortoises. A full day of scuba diving in Nungwe is well worth it, as is the experience of fishing in a traditional saiing dhow.
There are a variety of restaurants offering a fantastic array of fresh seafood straight from the ocean, with crayfish being a popular speciality. You can mingle with the locals at the seafront market of Forodhani Gardens, where inexpensive yet delicious seafood is available.
Departing from Zanzibar Island in the afternoon our relaxing beach trip comes to a close. We return to the shores of Tanzania by the early evening and spend the night at our safari camp in Dar es Salaam town.
From Dar es Salaam we travel through African bush and expansive sisal plantations on our way to the pleasant town of Arusha.
We pass The Pare and Usambara Mountain ranges before driving through Moshi town. Moshi is a great place from which to catch a glimpse of the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro on a clear day - a fantastic photo opportunity! The town of Moshi forms the base for climbing expeditions up Mount Kilimanjaro's slopes to its snowy summit. The night is spent camping in scenic Meserani on the outskirts of Arusha.
Next we have the option of taking an excursion to the legendary Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
Arusha town is located at the foot of Mount Meru and serves as the gateway for excursions to Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, Lake Manyara Park and the Serengeti Park. These game viewing excursions are run in locally operated 4WD safari vehicles that have been adapted for our African safari drives.
Explore the thriving town of Arusha in the morning if you like, while we stock up on supplies for our wildlife excursion. You can browse the vibrant craft markets, go shopping or perhaps catch up on the news back home at one of the small internet cafes.
Heading back to our base camp, Meserani Snake Park, those that are participating in the optional Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park Trip can prepare for their departure this afternoon.
For those choosing not to visit the Serengeti National Park & Ngorongoro Crater various alternative activities are available. You can explore the nearby town of Arusha and visit the Masai Cultural Museum, Meserani reptile park, or the surrounding villages and craft markets over the next two days of this Beaches & Wildlife African Safari.
The Optional Ngorongoro & Serengeti Trip goes to Karatu via the Masai town of Mtu Wa Mbu (Mosquito River) located next to Lake Manyara National Park. We journey up the Great Rift Valley Escarpment to Karatu, which is a higher lying village offering spectacular views over the surrounding hills.
Karatu has many well-established wheat farms adding to its picturesque scenery. We stay at pleasant campsite in Karatu overnight, departing early the following morning for the Ngorongoro Crater. Driving to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area we head deeper into the bush of the Ngorongoro Crater teeming with wildlife. This crater is a World Heritage Site boasting some of the best game viewing in Africa. Ngorongoro Crater game viewing opportunities include seeing the elusive Black Rhino.
We explore the Crater on a game drive before moving on down the crater rim and passing the 'Cradle of Mankind' en route to the Serengeti National Park. We cross the open African plains on the game drive through the southern and central areas of the Serengeti Park. Then we camp in the heart of the untamed bushveld surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness at night.
In the morning we take a thrilling game drive in Serengeti Park, admiring the surrounding landscape as we search for game in the area. With some luck we get to sight the famous 'Big 5' (elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion & leopard) of Africa on our Serengeti game drive. After the morning game drive, we retrace our steps crossing the vast plains and lush Ngorongoro Crater rim.
Back in Tanzania's Arusha we spend the evening recounting our thrilling tales of the wildlife encounters on the plains of Serengeti & Ngorongoro.
Driving north early this morning we head to the Tanzania-Kenyan border via the small border town of Namanga. Crossing into Kenya we journey to our next overnight campsite located on the outskirts of the Capital City of Nairobi.
The Safari Camp in Nairobi is ideally situated next to the Nairobi National Park, and is close to the giraffe sanctuary and elephant orphanage. The camp is also close to the famous Carnivore Restaurant.
On the last day of this exhilarating African Safari Adventure we share breakfast in Nairobi. After breakfast we exchange contact details and bid farewell to the friends and travel companions who shared this African Safari trip of a lifetime with us!
The remainder of the day is free for you to explore Nairobi and enjoy some of the numerous optional activities available in this vibrant city. You can visit The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, to see the orphaned baby Elephants at feeding time, head to the Giraffe Centre in Langata for more game viewing, take a day trip to Nairobi National Park or take a “Matatu” to the local curio markets. In the evening you may choose to dine out in Nairobi, perhaps trying the Carnivore Restaurant.
Please Note:
This Budget African Safari begins in Johannesburg, South Africa and travels north through South Africa, Mozambique Zimbabwe, Botswana, Zambia, Malawi and Tanzania before ending in Nairobi, Kenya.
The budget camping safari departs from Johannesburg in South Africa early on Sunday morning. Should you wish to explore Johannesburg, an earlier arrival is recommended. Accommodation can be booked through African Budget Safaris. 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 safari trip.
Click the image to enlarge
]]>This African Budget Safari begins in Johannesburg, South Africa and travels north, exploring South Africa, Mozambique Zimbabwe, Botswana, Zambia, Malawi and Zanzibar Island before ending in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Highlights on this African Camping Safari include:
The Affordable African Adventure of this Beaches & Game Parks African Safari explores seven East and Southern African countries, exploring numerous top game parks, beaches and natural wonders over 29 exciting days.
This budget camping safari departs from Johannesburg travelling into the Lowveld of South Africa towards the renowned Kruger National Park. Our journey takes us through the southern part of the scenic Panorama Route – famous for its breathtaking views.
We enter Kruger Park in the late afternoon and enjoy our first game drive on the way to our campsite within the Kruger Park. Tonight we relax around the campfire at camp, getting a good night's rest before our early morning game drive in Kruger.
Today we explore the world-famous Kruger National Park on game viewing drives. This top African game park covers an area of 21 497 km2 (60 km wide and over 350 km long).
The vast Kruger Park conservation area is home to over 146 mammals, 500 bird, 114 reptile, 33 amphibian & 49 fish species. Around 23 000 different types of plants have also been recorded in this wilderness area.
We spend the day driving through Kruger Park in South Africa in search of the abundance of wildlife inhabiting the game reserve, stopping off at view points as we explore. Tonight we spend the evening at one of the southern camps in Kruger National Park, surrounded by the game-rich bush.
We hit the road early today, driving across the border we leave South Africa and travel to the warm Indian Ocean waters of the Mozambique coastline.
Our first stop in Mozambique is Inhambane, once the trade centre of Portuguese East Africa in colonial years. Today Maputo is the capital of Mozambique and the centre of its trade industry.
The beaches just outside of Inhambane are well known for their good scuba diving sites, by both locals and holidaymakers, due to the variety of reefs nearby.
You are free to spend the day at leisure soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Go diving to discover the abundant marine life along the coast, browse the bustling “Mecado Central” (central market), or explore the beaches on horseback.
Inhambane offers some of the best scuba diving in the world with reefs close to all of the beaches, including the famous Manta Reef and Gallaria. Marine sightings include Manta Rays, Whale Sharks, Turtles and a host of other marine life.
There are various professional scuba diving operators along this stretch of Mozambique coast and dives can be booked with them on arrival at the safari camp. For those wishing to see the spectacular marine life that are not able to dive, snorkelling is also excellent.
On day five of this African Budget Safari we take a leisurely drive up the coast of Mozambique to the picturesque Morrungulu Resort. The resort camp is set among coconut palm plantations, offering a truly tropical island feel – beware of falling coconuts!
Try out deep-sea fishing, or stroll along the lovely beach at Morrungulu.
The coastal town of Villanculous is the stepping stone to the three main islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago off Mozambique.
We spend the next two nights of our epic African journey in Vilanculous, to enable those who wish to take a boat charter to the smaller island of Magaruque to do so on day seven. Other activities include traditional Dhow sailing trips, sunset cruises, horse riding, big game fishing, whale watching (seasonal) and more.
Continuing our drive northwards we say farewell to the tropical coastline of Mozambique heading inland to Bandula.
Our drive on day eight takes us through more rural parts of Mozambique giving us the chance to see local Mozambican villages and farmsteads.
Arriving at our next overnight stop in the late afternoon, we set up camp on the banks of the Chicamba Dam.
Today we cross from Mozambique into Zimbabwe. A beautiful southern African country, rich in culture, history and tradition. We drive into the Zimbabwe Midlands, to the town of Gweru.
Here we stop over at Antelope Park. Rumour has it that “you have not been to Zimbabwe until you have visited the Victoria Falls… and the Antelope Park.”
Antelope Park offers a wide variety of game viewing activities in this wilderness area inhabited by lion, elephant, giraffe and of course numerous antelope (as the name suggests)! Seize the unique opportunity of walking with lions, riding or swimming with elephants, viewing game from horseback or from the back of a safari vehicle.
Enjoy close encounters with Africa’s wildlife and feel the thrill of a walk with lions, or a ride on elephant back at Antelope Park today.
In the evening you can venture into the bushes on a night game drive in Antelope Park!
From Gweru, we set off for Bulawayo, Zimbabwe’s second largest city. Bulawayo is known for its extra wide streets, originally designed for full span ox wagons.
The British Colonial influence can still be seen in Bulawayo, with many of the character buildings being preserved as heritage sites by the Bulawayo City Council. Places of interest worth visiting include, the Natural History Museum, the National Arts Gallery and the Mzilikazi Arts and Crafts Centre, which employs more than 70 people.
Today we drive north-west to the oldest and largest game park in Zimbabwe – Hwange National Park. Hwange Park is well known for its abundant and varied wildlife species, including thousands of elephants, and rare antelope species such as the Sable and Roan Antelope.
We embark on a rewarding game drive, in the late afternoon or early morning, to explore the wildlife haven of Hwange Park in search of resident wildlife species.
We leave Hwange Park and drive on to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe today.
Named after the famous World Heritage Site and Waterfall, the town of Victoria Falls is located along the Zambezi River, surrounded by the Victoria Falls National Park. Our safari campsite is conveniently situated in the centre of Victoria Falls town, within walking distance of the local restaurants, shops and booking agents for adventure activities.
A 20 minute walk takes you to the entry point for viewing the spectacular Vic Falls, falling between Zimbabwe and Zambia. Victoria Falls, or Mosi-oa-Tunya (the Smoke that Thunders), was named by the explorer David Livingstone and is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Victoria Falls is the world's largest sheet of falling water at 1700 m wide and about 100 m high. An awesome and memorable sight on any African Safari!
A short adventure activities brief is followed by an afternoon of leisure for you to unwind at the campsite’s swimming pool, view the mighty Victoria Falls, or explore the sights and delights of Vic Falls town!
For the next two days you are free to relax and explore the area as well as taking advantage of some of the fantastic Optional Adventure Activities at Victoria Falls.
Some of our fellow travellers may end their tour in Vic Falls and new passengers often join us for the next leg of our affordable African Safari.
Optional Excursions include elephant back safaris, horseback safaris, walking with lions, 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 River is world class. In addition to the excitement of the Grade 5 rapids, there are the "floats," where there is time to admire the towering cliffs and occasional wildlife on the riverbanks.
After breakfast we depart from Vic Falls crossing into Botswana and making our way to Kasane where we set up camp on the banks of the Chobe River.
Listen out for the resident hippos enjoying the waters of Chobe River, the major water source in Chobe National Park. The Chobe River forms a natural border between Botswana and Namibia and Zambia. Chobe National Park is one of Botswana’s premier game parks, renowned for its large herds of elephant.
We take a relaxing boat cruise along the Chobe River after lunch.
For the adventurous safari goers, there is the option of taking a Chobe National Park Sleep-out – an overnight experience in the Chobe National Park. After the boat cruise we return to Kasane and prepare for our Chobe National Park Overnight Trip into the wilds.
Arriving in Chobe Park we spend the afternoon in search of African wildlife on a game drive to our bush camp inside this top Botswana Game Park.
We spend the evening listening to the night-time noises of the local wildlife in the surrounding bush. Look out for the rare Sable and Roan Antelope on your game drive, with their impressive backward slanting horns, or try keep a count of the Lilac Breasted Roller’s swooping by!
After our night in the Botswana bush, we head out early on a game viewing drive in Chobe Park, before packing up the safari camp and heading back north to Kasane.
On our return to the camp in Kasane, we get back on our safari truck and continue to the Zambian town of Livingstone.
This afternoon we have the opportunity to view Victoria Falls from the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Zambia or partake in a sunset boat cruise on the Zambezi River. More fantastic photo opportunities!
Today we make an early start and head northwards, passing through villages and towns in southern Zambia en route to our next campsite. The night is spent camping on the outskirts of Lusaka, Zambia's capital city.
Zambia prospered during the copper boom in the 60’s and was able to establish extensive infrastructure in its main mining and farming communities. With the decline of the copper industry, the country was left virtually bankrupt and the infrastructure fell into ruine. But today Zambia is again starting to prosper, due to foreign investment and a resurgence in the mining industry. The rising prosperity can be seen in the cities of Zambia where foreign stores, banks and imported cars are increasing, but the villages and smaller towns are less cosmopolitan.
Some of the local wildlife such as the Eland, Africa's largest antelope, share the safari campsite with us!
Travelling on the old "East Road" we drive in a northeasterly direction from Lusaka, finding our way to a stunning campsite a mere 10 km from the border between Zambia and Malawi.
We follow what was once the route from Cape Town to Cairo that passes through Lusaka on its way to Malawi. While most of today is taken up by driving, we do cross the impressive Luangwa River Bridge which is closely guarded due to its close proximity to the Zimbabwean & Malawian borders.
We’ll also stop to stock up on some fresh produce and supplies from the local sellers along the way. We overnight at our lovely campsite, before heading into neighbouring Malawi.
Malawi is known as the 'Warm Heart of Africa' and next our safari takes us to find out why. We stop in the administrative centre and capital of Malawi, Lilongwe. Malawi is a landlocked country with 20% of its total area consisting of the beautiful, fresh-water Lake Malawi.
Over the next few days we travel the full length of the western side of Lake Malawi, stopping off at various bays and inlets. Days are spent relaxing on the unspoilt beaches, learning to play the game of bao from locals or bargain hunting at the markets.
The temperate climate of Malawi is suited to swimming all year round, so you can always take a dip in the clear blue waters. Explore the picturesque shores of Lake Malawi meeting local fishermen as they sort the fresh catch of the day. The fishermen still bring in their catch using traditional fishing techniques. The ‘fairy’ lights of the fishermens' boats twinkle out on the lake at night.
You can gain insight into the skill involved in handling one of the fishing boats by trying your hand at paddling a dug out canoe yourself. Excursions offered at the beachside campsites along Lake Malawi's shores include options such as water sports, horse riding and visits to the local school and village.
We leave Lake Malawi utterly relaxed after four days and enter Tanzania via the border post at Songwe. We take in the beauty of the Tukuyu banana and tea plantations of the area as we head for our next night's stop, Iringa.
The rustic 'Farmhouse' campsite in Iringa is famous for its Amarula Hot Chocolates and steamy showers, worth savouring.
After a good night's rest in Iringa we continue to the seaside town of Dar es Salaam.
We pass through the Mikumi National Park of Tanzania seeing a wide range of wildlife from the roadside. The wild animals appear impervious to passing traffic, which makes for fantastic game viewing.
Upon our arrival in Dar es Salaam, we find our lovely campsite set at the seaside and busy ourselves with preparations for the next stretch of our African journey. The next morning we embark on the trip to Zanzibar Island.
For travellers not taking the optional trip to the island of Zanzibar, the next three days are spent relaxing at the beach campsite in Dar es Salaam.
There are various optional excursions available from the safari camp including diving, snorkelling and fishing trips along the coast of Tanzania. The driver and cook stay behind in Dar es Salaam during the Zanzibar Excursion.
On day 26 we travel to Zanzibar on our optional excursion. From Dar es Salaam we take a ferry across to the "Spice Island," where we spend three nights.
Zanzibar has a colourful past once serving as one of the major departure points for most of the explorations into new territories of East Africa. New passengers may join us on our Zanzibar Trip, as some travel companions might opt to end their tour back in Dar es Salaam.
KINDLY NOTE:
The Zanzibar accommodation and meals costs are for your own account, as experience has shown that visitors prefer exploring the island unguided. Zanzibar hosts a wide selection of restaurants offering a variety of tasty meals. The Trip Leader joins you and can help with arranging accommodation in Zanzibar.
Zanzibar Island has a great range of activities to offer visitors, from quiet sightseeing to exciting water activities.
Explore a spice plantation, an interesting experience on Zanzibar, which is famous for its spices. The quaint streets of the old Stone Town of Zanzibar reveal traces of their Arabic history, from Medina-style shops to the impressive palaces that once belonged to powerful Sultans.
Other interesting activities include a day trip to the pristine beaches of Prison Island, to see its giant tortoises. A full day of scuba diving in Nungwe is well worth it, as is the experience of fishing in a traditional saiing dhow.
There are a variety of restaurants offering a fantastic array of fresh seafood straight from the ocean, with crayfish being a popular speciality. You can mingle with the locals at the seafront market of Forodhani Gardens, where inexpensive yet delicious seafood is available.
Departing from Zanzibar Island in the afternoon our relaxing beach trip comes to a close.
We return to the shores of Tanzania arriving back at camp in the late afternoon, or early evening. On arrival in Dar es Salaam we exchange addresses and part ways, having just experienced the African Safari Trip of a lifetime!
This Budget African Safari begins in Johannesburg, South Africa and travels north through South Africa, Mozambique Zimbabwe, Botswana, Zambia, Malawi and Zanzibar before ending in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
The budget camping safari departs from Johannesburg in South Africa early on Sunday morning. Should you wish to explore Johannesburg, an earlier arrival is recommended. Accommodation can be booked through African Budget Safaris. 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 safari trip.
Click the image to enlarge
]]>This Budget African Safari begins in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, and explores Zanzibar Island, Malawi, Zambia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique, before ending in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Highlights on this Budget Camping Safari in Africa include:
This action-packed Beaches & Wildlife African Safari visits top African safari countries, taking you to idyllic tropical beaches and game viewing in some of Africa's best game parks.
On day one of this Beaches & Wildlife African Safari we travel to Zanzibar on our optional island excursion.
From Dar es Salaam we take a ferry across to the "Spice Island" where we spend three nights.
Zanzibar has a colourful past, as one of the major departure points for most of the explorations into new territories of East Africa, in times gone by. Some passengers joining us on our Zanzibar Trip might opt to end their African Trip back in Dar es Salaam.
The Zanzibar accommodation and meals costs are for your own account, as experience has shown that visitors prefer exploring the island unguided.
Zanzibar hosts a wide selection of restaurants offering a variety of tasty meals. The Trip Leader joins you and can help with arranging accommodation in Zanzibar.
For those not taking the optional trip to the island of Zanzibar, the next three days are spent relaxing at the beach campsite in Dar es Salaam.
There are various optional excursions available from the safari camp including diving, snorkelling and fishing trips along the coast of Tanzania. The driver and cook remain behind in Dar es Salaam during the Zanzibar Excursion.
Zanzibar Island has a great range of activities for visitors to enjoy, from quiet sightseeing in Stone Town and around the island to exciting water activities in its warm waters.
Explore one of the spice plantations, an interesting experience on Zanzibar, which is famous for its exotic spices. The quaint streets of the old Stone Town of Zanzibar reveal traces of their Arabic history, from Medina-style shops to the impressive palaces that once belonged to powerful Sultans.
Other interesting activities on Zanzibar Island include a day trip to the pristine beaches of Prison Island, to see its giant tortoises. A full day of scuba diving in Nungwe is well worth it, as is the experience of fishing in a traditional saiing dhow.
There are a variety of restaurants offering a fantastic array of fresh seafood straight from the ocean, with crayfish being a popular speciality. You can mingle with the locals at the seafront market of Forodhani Gardens, where inexpensive yet delicious seafood is available.
Departing from the tropical Zanzibar Island in the afternoon our idyllic beach trip comes to a close. We return to the shores of Tanzania by the early evening feeling rejuvenated and relaxed.
We spend the night catching up with fellow travellers at our safari camp in Dar es Salaam town.
On the morning of day five of this budget safari we set off from coastal Dar es Salaam making our way further south.
En route we drive through the inland Mikumi National Park, home to a variety of wildlife. The wildlife in Mikumi is quite accustomed to the passing traffic, which makes sighting the animals easier as we drive through the game park.
We continue to Iringa, our next overnight stop on this Beaches & Wildlife African Safari. The night is spent at a scenic and rustic campsite famous for its Amarula Hot Chocolates and steamy hot showers!
We follow the winding road through the Tukuyu tea and banana plantations admiring this beautiful region of Tanzania as we travel.
Next, we cross into Malawi entering the ‘Warm Heart of Africa’ via the Songwe border post.
Malawi is a landlocked country with 20% of its total area consisting of the beautiful, fresh-water Lake Malawi.
Over the next few days on this camping safari we travel the full length of the western side of Lake Malawi, stopping off at various bays and inlets. Days are spent relaxing on the unspoilt beaches, learning to play the game of bao from locals or bargain hunting at the markets.
The temperate climate of Malawi is suited to swimming all year round, so you can always take a dip in the clear blue waters. Explore the picturesque shores of Lake Malawi meeting local fishermen as they sort the fresh catch of the day. The fishermen still bring in their catch using traditional fishing techniques. The ‘fairy’ lights of the fishermens' boats twinkle out on the lake at night.
You can gain insight into the skill involved in handling one of the fishing boats by trying your hand at paddling a dug out canoe yourself. Excursions offered at the beachside campsites along Lake Malawi's shores include options such as water sports, horse riding and visits to the local school and village.
Leaving lovely Lake Malawi and its friendly people behind, we drive to the capital of Malawi, Lilongwe. This small city has a distinct old town and a new administrative centre.
We replenish our supplies before travelling into neighbouring Zambia - the next stop on this African Budget Safari. We make our way to a beautiful little campsite just 10 km from the Malawi and Zambia border, where we stay overnight.
Driving south-west from Chipata along the Great East Road we head to our overnight campsite located on the fringes of Lusaka, Zambia’s capital city.
On our drive we cross the impressive Luangwa River Bridge near the Zimbabwe-Malawi border and travel via some rural villages and towns in Zambia today.
Zambia prospered during the copper boom in the 60’s and established extensive infrastructure in its main mining and farming communities. After a subsequent decline in the copper industry, Zambia is once again starting to prosper, due to foreign investment and a resurgence in the mining industry.
Some of the local wildlife such as the Eland, Africa's largest antelope, share the safari campsite with us!
Continuing our journey south through Zambia, we pass through southern Zambian farming and agricultural towns en route to Livingstone.
Victoria Falls or Mosi-oa-Tunya, the Smoke that Thunders, is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Vic Falls is the world's largest sheet of falling water at 1700 m wide and around 100 m high. Seeing Vic Falls is a highlight of any African Safari!
We can witness this spectacular natural wonder from the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park in Zambia - a superb photographic opportunity. In the evening we can enjoy a relaxing sunset dinner cruise on the mighty Zambezi River.
Saying goodbye to truly African Zambia we head into one of Africa's top Safari Countries, Botswana, at the Kazangula Ferry crossing.
Once in Botswana we drive to the northern town of Kasane, located on the banks of the Chobe River. Chobe River, home to hippos and other wildlife, forms a natural border between Botswana, Namibia and Zambia.
After lunch we take a relaxing boat cruise on the Chobe River, the main source of water in Chobe National Park. Returning from our boat cruise we prepare for our overnight Chobe National Park trip.
Then we make our way into this top Botswana game reserve for our overnight experience in the African wilderness of Chobe National Park. Chobe Park is one of the premier game parks in Botswana, renowned for its large herds of migratory elephants.
In the afternoon we explore Chobe on a game drive en route to our safari camp inside the game park. On the game viewing drive rare Sable and Roan Antelope are often sighted, keep an eye out for their destinct backward slanting horns, or watch the numerous swooping Lilac Breasted Rollers!
We spend the evening musing over our wildlife encounters in Chobe Park and listening to the night sounds of nearby wildlife, interspersed by the silence of the African bush.
Getting up early after our night in the Botswana bush, we set off on a morning game drive in search of Chobe's wildlife. After our rewarding game drive we pack up camp and travel back to the town of Kasane.
Back at the Kasane camp we transfer to our safari truck and take the short drive to the Zimbabwe border. Border formalities behind us, we cover the last bit of ground to nearby Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.
Named after the famous World Heritage Site and Waterfall, the town of Victoria Falls is located along the Zambezi River, surrounded by the Victoria Falls National Park. Our safari campsite is conveniently situated in the centre of Victoria Falls town, within walking distance of the local restaurants, shops and booking agents for adventure activities.
A 20 minute walk takes you to the entry point for viewing the spectacular Vic Falls, falling between Zimbabwe and Zambia. Victoria Falls, or Mosi-oa-Tunya (the Smoke that Thunders), was named by the explorer David Livingstone and is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Victoria Falls is the world's largest sheet of falling water at 1700 m wide and about 100 m high. An awesome and memorable sight on any African Safari!
A short adventure activities brief is followed by an afternoon of leisure for you to unwind at the campsite’s swimming pool, view the mighty Victoria Falls, or explore the sights and delights of Vic Falls town!
For the next two days you are free to relax and explore the area as well as taking advantage of some of the fantastic Optional Adventure Activities at Victoria Falls.
Some of our fellow travellers may end their tour in Vic Falls and new passengers often join us for the next stretch of our African Camping Safari.
Optional Excursions include elephant back safaris, horseback safaris, walking with lions, 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!
Flights over Vic Falls in fixed wing, micro light and ultra light aircraft or helicopters provide an aerial perspective of this magnificent World Heritage Site, all year round. White water rafting on the Zambezi River is world class. In addition to the excitement of the Grade 5 rapids, there are the "floats," where there is time to admire the towering cliffs and occasional wildlife on the Zambezi riverbanks.
Continuing our Budget African Safari early in the morning, we travel to Zimbabwe’s oldest and largest game reserve, Hwange National Park. Hwange Park is renowned for its diverse and plentiful wildlife species, including thousands of elephants, along with rare Sable and Roan Antelope species.
Arriving at this well-known Zimbabwean game park we enjoy lunch, before embarking on an exciting game drive in Hwange Park. We explore the untamed wilderness area in search of its varied wildlife species.
Day 18 sees us rising with the sun and heading off into Hwange Park to explore this reserve some more, before departing for Bulawayo in the mid-morning.
Bulawayo is the second largest city in Zimbabwe and is characterized by wide streets, originally designed to accommodate full span ox wagons.
The rich British Colonial influences can still be seen in the city's old buildings that have been maintained as heritage sites by the Bulawayo City Council. Places of interest include the Natural History Museum, the National Arts Gallery and the Mzilikazi Arts and Crafts Centre, employing over 70 people.
Stock up on supplies and explore the city, before we hit the road for our next safari stop - Gweru, in Zimbabwe’s Midlands.
Our Beaches & Wildlife African Safari akes us to the Antelope Park where we stay over for tonight.
Some say that you haven't really been to Zimbabwe until you have visited the famous Victoria Falls, and Antelope Park - a must-visit on a Zimbabwe visit. This area of Zimbabwe offers open game viewing drives and much more, boasting a wide range of game viewing opportunities.
From the unique chance to walk with lions in the bush, to taking a swim or ride on elephant back or going game viewing on horseback.
These game viewing activities help fund the ALERT project, aimed at conserving African lions. The Antelope Park area is home to lions, elephants, giraffes and, of course, numerous antelopes!
Today we enjoy some game viewing activities and have the chance to get up close to Africa’s wildlife at Antelope Park.
Take a thrilling walk with lions, ride through bush and water on elephant back, or venture out on a night game drive!
Our Budget Camping Safari moves on from the special Antelope Park, as we drive across Zimbabwe’s Eastern Highlands to Mozambique.
Passing the town of Mutare, we continue to our first Mozambique campsite, set on the banks of Lake Chicamba.
Lake Chicamba is a popular Angling destination, located where the Revue and Messica Rivers meet.
This Mozambiquan lake is well-stocked with big Bass, Carp, Bream and Catfish, making it an Anglers paradise!
From Bandula we travel to Vilanculous on the tropical coast of Mozambique for more fantastic beaches on this African Trip.
Villanculous is the base for excursions to the Bazaruto Archipelago's three main islands. We arrive at the coastline of the warm Indian Ocean in the afternoon and spend the next two nights here.
From Villanculous you have the chance to take a boat charter out to the smaller Bazaruto island of Magaruque for the day.
Dhow sailing trips, sunset cruises, horse riding, big game fishing, seasonal whale watching and other activities are also available at Vilanculous.
We take a leisurely drive down the coast of Mozambique to the picturesque Morrungulu Resort today.
The resort camp is nestled among coconut palm plantations, offering a truly tropical island feel – but beware of falling coconuts! Try out deep-sea fishing, or simply enjoy a relaxing stroll along the beach.
Today we keep travelling south down the coast of Mozambique towards our next alluring safari destination. The next two days on this African Budget Safari are spent in Inhambane, the centre of trade in Portuguese East Africa during colonial years. Today Maputo is the capital of Mozambique, as well as the trade centre.
The beaches just outside of Inhambane are well known for their good scuba diving sites, due to the variety of reefs nearby.
You are free to spend the day at leisure soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Go diving to discover the abundant marine life along the coast, browse the bustling “Mecado Central” (central market), or explore the beaches on horseback.
Inhambane offers some of the best scuba diving in the world with reefs close to all of the beaches, including the famous Manta Reef and Gallaria. Marine sightings include Manta Rays, Whale Sharks, Turtles and a host of other marine life.
There are various professional scuba diving operators along this stretch of Mozambique coast and dives can be booked with them on arrival at the safari camp. For those wishing to see the spectacular marine life that are not able to dive, snorkelling is also excellent.
Driving further south we cross the border into South Africa, leaving the warm waters of the inviting Mozambique coast behind.
We make our way to the world-famous Kruger National Park teeming with wildlife. Entering this top top African game park in the late afternoon, an exhilarating game drive brings us to our safari campsite inside Kruger Park.
In the evening we relax around the camp fire and get a good night's rest before our morning game drive in Kruger tomorrow.
Today we explore the premier Kruger National Park on game viewing drives. This leading African game park covers an area of 21 497 km2 (60 km wide and over 350 km long).
The vast Kruger Park conservation area is home to over 146 mammals, 500 bird, 114 reptile, 33 amphibian & 49 fish species. Around 23 000 different types of plants have also been recorded in this wilderness area.
We spend the day driving through Kruger Park in South Africa in search of the abundance of wildlife inhabiting the game reserve, stopping off at view points as we explore. Tonight we spend the evening at one of the southern camps in Kruger National Park, surrounded by the game-rich bush.
Our Beaches & Wildlife African Safari departs from the Kruger Park region travelling via the southern section of the picturesque Panorama Route to our final destination, Johannesburg. We arrive in the late afternoon where this African Camping Safari finishes on arrival at a selected Backpacker Lodge in Benoni.
We recommend that you extend your stay by a few days to participate in some of the exciting activities available in Johannesburg. Post tour accommodation can be booked through African Budget Safaris.
This Budget African Safari begins in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania visiting Zanzibar Island, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Botswana, ending in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The Budget Camping Safari departs from Dar es Salaam early on Saturday morning. Should you wish to explore Dar es Salaam, an earlier arrival is recommended. Accommodation can be booked through African Budget Safaris. 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 safari trip.
Click the image to enlarge
]]>This Budget African Safari begins in Nairobi, Kenya, and explores Kenya, Tanzania and Zanzibar Island, before visiting Malawi, Zambia and Botswana, and ending in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.
Highlights on this Budget Camping Safari in Africa include:
This African Safari Highlights & Victoria Falls Trip travels to top African Safari Destinations, game viewing in some of Africa's best game parks and relaxing on idyllic tropical beaches.
This African Safari Highlights & Vic Falls Trip departs from bustling Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, driving towards our first safari destination, Lake Nakuru National Park.
Lake Nakuru Park is famous for its huge flocks of flamingoes. Thousands of lesser and greater flamingos can be seen in the shallow waters of this soda lake.
The size of the flamingo flocks varies depending on the water levels, with low water levels attracting vast numbers. This large gathering of flamingoes creates a sea of pink, in one of natures' truly spectacular sights!
The Lake Nakuru Park was established as a sanctuary to protect the endangered black and white rhino, frequently sighted in this unique Kenyan wilderness area.
We spend the afternoon game viewing in search of pre-historic looking rhinos, the shy leopard, and plenty of buffalo, giraffe and various antelope species, as well as the occasional hippo.
Tonight we camp wild within the Nakuru National Park (no ablution facilities).
On day 2 of this camping safari we rise and shine early in the morning packing up the safari camp and grabbing a quick breakfast; before venturing out into the African bush on our morning game drive in Lake Nakuru Park.
The early hours of the day are generally the best time to spot predators returning from a wild night out hunting for prey as well as other game waking up to a new day. With a little luck, we may even sight one of the resident leopards!
After our exciting game drive, we travel south-east to Lake Naivasha, home to an abundance of bird life, the most magnificent being the African Fish Eagle with its regal cry.
At 1880m, Kenya's Lake Naivasha is highest Great Rift Valley lake. We spend the afternoon enjoying optional outings such as having High Tea at Elsamere (home to Joy & George Adamson famous for Born Free), a boat ride to the Crescent Island Game Sanctuary or a bike ride at Hell’s Gate National Park.
Tonight we stay at a lovely campsite on the edge of Lake Naivasha.
Wake up for a hearty breakfast before traveling to the Masai Mara National Reserve in southwest Kenya. We enter Masai country, where the traditionally pastorialist Masai people are often seen tending their cattle along the side of the road.
En route to Masai Mara we pass through the town of Narok, keeping an eye out for some of Africa's wildlife as we go.
Much of the road between Nairobi and the Masai Mara Reserve is in a poor state, so get ready for a rough ride!
We arrive at our safari campsite in the evening. The Camp looks out over the Meguarra hills and a meandering stream below - forming a natural border with the unfenced Masai Mara National Reserve. Wildlife roams freely between Masai Mara and the surrounding wilderness areas as they choose – even wondering through our own camp! The local ‘Askari’ keeps a watchful eye for any roaming predators to ensure our safety at the Mara camp.
Setting off shortly after sunrise on our morning game drive into Masai Mara Game Reserve we get to see Kenya's top game park at its best!
The Masai Mara is well known as one of East Africa’s best National Reserves, home to a wide variety of wild animals and birds. Masai Mara, like Tanzania's Serengeti, is most famous for the Annual Migration, taking place between July and October.
The well-known Wildebeest Migration consists of impressive herds of over one million wildebeest, zebra and Thomson’s gazelle stampeding over the open plains from the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania to Msai Mara in Kenya.
The flood of herbivores in search of fresh grazing in turn attract Africa’s predators, often seen at kill during the migration period. We embark on a rewarding game drive in part of the Masai Mara Park searching for Africa's Big Five - elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion & leopard; along with the numerous other species of wild animals, reptiles and birds inhabiting this East African game park.
After our Mara game drive, we have the option of visiting a nearby Masai Manyatta – a traditional hamlet where the Masai continue to live in their traditional way. This evening we sit around the camp fire, witnessing a magnificent African sunset over the wild plains of Africa.
After breakfast we depart from the Masai Mara Reserve heading to Kisii/Kericho via some picturesque tea plantations along the way.
These towns serve as the main commercial centres of the Gusii Highlands in Kenya, where cash crops like tea and coffee thrive thanks to the equatorial climate. We stock up on supplies in the towns before crossing into neighbouring Tanzania on the following day of this Budget African Safari.
We leave game-rich Kenya behind and drive south into Tanzania. After border formalities, our journey takes us through the scenic granite landscapes surrounding Africa’s biggest lake – Lake Victoria. We spend the night at a campsite located on the banks of Lake Victoria in the fishing town of Musoma.
We make a quick pit stop for supplies to see us through the next couple of days out in the untamed bush before making our way to the Serengeti National Park. We drive into Serengeti Park entering through the less travelled western corridor. Upon entering the game park we enjoy a game drive en-route to our safari campsite set in the centre of the Serengeti Reserve. And after lunch we experience more of the endless plains this Tanzanian game park is named after.
The Serengeti Park is famous for its enormous concentration of wild animals, especially the big cats of Africa. Like Masai Mara, Serengeti is also known for the spectacular annual migration of millions of wildebeest, zebra and Thomson’s gazelles.
The sheer abundance of plains game in this Tanzanian wildlife area is truly awe-inspiring.
Tonight we camp in the wild Tanzanian bush (no ablutions) surrounded by the sounds of Africa's bushveld, pierced only by the calls of the nocturnal wildlife. In the morning, we drive into the Serengeti bush on another game drive exploring the rugged landscape in search of the plentiful wildlife. With a bit ofluck, we may see some of the iconic ‘Big 5’ of Africa!
We rise early to pack up our bush camp and continue our thrilling game drive through the Serengeti National Park.
Heading to the southern part of the vast game park we have the chance to look out over the endless plains Serengeti is renowned for. We drive from Serengeti to Ngorongoro Conservation Area at lunch time and begin ascending the steep Crater's edge.
Tonight we camp (basic ablutions) on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater where temperatures are lower than in the warmer plains of Tanzania below - bring your winter woollies as it can get very chilly at night.
The Ngorongoro Crater with its 600 m high walls and 20 km wide floor is a real natural marvel.
The Crater’s rim offers spectacular views, but the true scale of the world's largest caldera is best appreciated from the floor of the crater itself.
The great abundance of wild African animals found within the crater becomes apparent as you drive along the crater floor. Nearly every species of African animal is represented in Ngorongoro where you get the chance to see an incredible concentration of East African mammals, such as elephant, rhino, buffalo, hippo, lion and plain’s game.
After a morning game drive in Ngorongoro Crater we continue to our next Tanzanian campsite outside Arusha town, where we spend the evening recollecting our exhilarating wildlife experiences in East Africa.
This morning we change to a different safari truck and drive to the town of Arusha, where we stock up on supplies before traveling further south towards Dar es Salaam, on the coast of Tanzania.
We travel through Moshi, a town at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro – Africa’s highest mountain. Moshi serves as the base for Mount Kilimanjaro climbing expeditions, and we may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of this magnificent mountain’s snowy summit from the town. The views of towering Kilimanjaro from Moshi offer fantastic photo opportunities!
Passing through vast sisal plantations flanked by the Usambara and Pare Mountain ranges we continue south on our safari adventure. Our lovely overnight campsite tucked between the mountains, lies halfway between Arusha and Dar es Salaam.
On day 11 of our African Highlights Safari we hit the road again continuing through lush green landscapes dotted with palm tree as we make our way to Dar es Salaam on the warm East Coast of Africa.
The pace of our drive to the warm Indian Ocean slows as we enter the outskirts of Dar es Salaam, taking in the interesting sights and sounds of Dar’s vibrant outer suburbs as we go. Keep an eye out for the brightly coloured shop-fronts decorated with humorous ‘catch phrases’.
Arriving in coastal Dar es Salaam we head to our pleasant seaside campsite and have time to prepare for our trip to Zanzibar Island the following morning.
A ferry from Dar es Salaam takes us across to the "Spice Island” of Zanzibar, for the optional 3 night island excursion. Zanzibar has a colourful past, as one of the major departure points for most of the explorations into new territories of East Africa, in times gone by.
New passengers may join us on our Zanzibar Trip, as some travel companions might opt to end their tour of Africa back in Dar es Salaam.
The Zanzibar accommodation and meals costs are for your own account, as experience has shown that visitors prefer exploring the island unguided.
Zanzibar Island hosts a wide selection of restaurants offering a variety of tasty meals. The Trip Leader joins you and can help with arranging accommodation in Zanzibar.
For those not taking the optional trip to the island of Zanzibar, the next three days are spent relaxing at the beach campsite in Dar es Salaam. There are various optional excursions available from the safari camp including diving, snorkelling and fishing trips along the coast of Tanzania. The driver and cook remain behind in Dar es Salaam during the Zanzibar Excursion.
Zanzibar Island has a great range of activities to offer visitors, from quiet sightseeing to exciting water activities.
Explore one of the spice plantations, an interesting experience on Zanzibar, which is famous for its exotic spices. The quaint streets of the old Stone Town of Zanzibar reveal traces of their Arabic history, from Medina-style shops to the impressive palaces that once belonged to powerful Sultans.
Other interesting activities on Zanzibar Island include a day trip to the pristine beaches of Prison Island, to see its giant tortoises. A full day of scuba diving in Nungwe is well worth it, as is the experience of fishing in a traditional saiing dhow.
There are a variety of restaurants offering a fantastic array of fresh seafood straight from the ocean, with crayfish being a popular speciality. You can mingle with the locals at the seafront market of Forodhani Gardens, where inexpensive yet delicious seafood is available.
Departing from the tropical Zanzibar Island in the afternoon our exciting beach trip comes to a close. We return to the shores of Tanzania by the early evening feeling rejuvenated and relaxed.
We spend the night catching up with fellow travellers at our safari camp in Dar es Salaam town.
On the morning of day 16 we set off from coastal Dar es Salaam making our way further south.
En route we drive through the inland Mikumi National Park, home to a variety of wildlife. The wildlife in Mikumi is quite accustomed to the passing traffic, which makes sighting the animals easier as we drive through the game park.
We continue to Iringa, our next overnight stop on this African Safari Highlights & Vic Falls Trip. The night is spent at a scenic and rustic campsite famous for its Amarula Hot Chocolates and steamy hot showers!
We follow the winding road through the Tukuyu tea and banana plantations admiring this beautiful region of Tanzania as we travel.
Next, we cross into Malawi entering the ‘Warm Heart of Africa’ via the Songwe border post.
Malawi is a landlocked country with 20% of its total area consisting of the beautiful, fresh-water Lake Malawi.
Over the next few days we travel the full length of the western side of Lake Malawi, stopping off at various bays and inlets. Days are spent relaxing on the unspoilt beaches, learning to play the game of bao from locals or bargain hunting at the markets.
The temperate climate of Malawi is suited to swimming all year round, so you can always take a dip in the clear blue waters. Explore the picturesque shores of Lake Malawi meeting local fishermen as they sort the fresh catch of the day. The fishermen still bring in their catch using traditional fishing techniques. The ‘fairy’ lights of the fishermens' boats twinkle out on the lake at night.
You can gain insight into the skill involved in handling one of the fishing boats by trying your hand at paddling a dug out canoe yourself. Excursions offered at the beachside campsites along Lake Malawi's shores include options such as water sports, horse riding and visits to the local school and village.
Leaving lovely Lake Malawi and its friendly people behind, we drive to the capital of Malawi, Lilongwe. This small city has a distinct old town and a new administrative centre.
We replenish our supplies before travelling into neighbouring Zambia - the next stop on this African Budget Safari. We make our way to a beautiful little campsite just 10 km from the Malawi and Zambia border, where we stay overnight.
Driving south-west from Chipata along the Great East Road we head to our overnight campsite located on the fringes of Lusaka, Zambia’s capital city.
On our drive we cross the impressive Luangwa River Bridge near the Zimbabwe-Malawi border and travel via some rural villages and towns in Zambia today.
Zambia prospered during the copper boom in the 60’s and established extensive infrastructure in its main mining and farming communities. After a subsequent decline in the copper industry, Zambia is once again starting to prosper, due to foreign investment and a resurgence in the mining industry.
Some of the local wildlife such as the Eland, Africa's largest antelope, share the safari campsite with us!
Continuing our journey south through Zambia, we pass through southern Zambian farming and agricultural towns en route to Livingstone.
Victoria Falls or Mosi-oa-Tunya, the Smoke that Thunders, is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Vic Falls is the world's largest sheet of falling water at 1700 m wide and around 100 m high. Seeing Vic Falls is a highlight of any African Safari!
We can witness this spectacular natural wonder from the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park in Zambia - a superb photographic opportunity. In the evening we can enjoy a relaxing sunset dinner cruise on the mighty Zambezi River.
Saying goodbye to truly African Zambia we head into one of Africa's top Safari Countries, Botswana, at the Kazangula Ferry crossing.
Once in Botswana we drive to the northern town of Kasane, located on the banks of the Chobe River. Chobe River, home to hippos and other wildlife, forms a natural border between Botswana, Namibia and Zambia.
After lunch we take a relaxing boat cruise on the Chobe River, the main source of water in Chobe National Park. Returning from our boat cruise we prepare for our overnight Chobe National Park trip.
Then we make our way into this top Botswana game reserve for our overnight experience in the African wilderness of Chobe National Park. Chobe Park is one of the premier game parks in Botswana, renowned for its large herds of migratory elephants.
In the afternoon we explore Chobe on a game drive en route to our safari camp inside the game park. On the game viewing drive rare Sable and Roan Antelope are often sighted, keep an eye out for their destinct backward slanting horns, or watch the numerous swooping Lilac Breasted Rollers!
We spend the evening musing over our wildlife encounters in Chobe Park and listening to the night sounds of nearby wildlife, interspersed by the silence of the African bush.
Getting up early after our night in the Botswana bush, we set off on a morning game drive in search of Chobe's wildlife. After our rewarding game drive we pack up camp and travel back to the town of Kasane.
Back at the Kasane camp we transfer to our safari truck and take the short drive to the Zimbabwe border. Border formalities behind us, we cover the last bit of ground to nearby Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.
Named after the famous World Heritage Site and Waterfall, the town of Victoria Falls is located along the Zambezi River, surrounded by the Victoria Falls National Park. Our safari campsite is conveniently situated in the centre of Victoria Falls town, within walking distance of the local restaurants, shops and booking agents for adventure activities.
A 20 minute walk takes you to the entry point for viewing the spectacular Vic Falls, falling between Zimbabwe and Zambia. Victoria Falls, or Mosi-oa-Tunya (the Smoke that Thunders), was named by the explorer David Livingstone and is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Victoria Falls is the world's largest sheet of falling water at 1700 m wide and about 100 m high. An awesome and memorable sight on any African Safari!
A short adventure activities brief is followed by an afternoon of leisure for you to unwind at the campsite’s swimming pool, view the mighty Victoria Falls, or explore the sights and delights of Vic Falls town!
On the last day of this unforgettable African Safari Highlights & Vic Falls Trip we enjoy breakfast, before exchanging addresses and parting ways. This Budget African Safari ends after breakfast in Victoria Falls town.
We recommend that you book an extra few days at Vic Falls after your safari trip, to take advantage of the fantastic Optional Adventure Activities at Victoria Falls.
Optional Excursions include elephant back safaris, horseback safaris, walking with lions, 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!
Flights over Vic Falls in fixed wing, micro light and ultra light aircraft or helicopters provide an aerial perspective of this magnificent World Heritage Site, all year round. White water rafting on the Zambezi River is world class. In addition to the excitement of the Grade 5 rapids, there are the "floats," where there is time to admire the towering cliffs and occasional wildlife on the Zambezi riverbanks.
This Budget African Safari begins in Nairobi, Kenya, and travels to Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, and Botswana, ending in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.
The Budget Camping Safari departs from Nairobi in Kenya early on Tuesday morning. Should you wish to explore Nairobi, an earlier arrival is recommended. Accommodation can be booked through African Budget Safaris.
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 safari trip.
Click the image to enlarge
]]>Kick off from Johannesburg, South Africa and travel through South Africa and Swaziland, Namibia and Botswana, before ending this Southern African Safari in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.
This 35-day Budget Camping Safari takes you through Southern Africa to highlights including:
Get the best of Southern Africa's mountains, desert and beaches on this affordable scenic and wildlife safari of a lifetime!
This African Budget Safari departs from Johannesburg traveling into the Lowveld of South Africa to our overnight camp on the border of the famous Kruger National Park.
Our drive takes us through the southern part of the scenic Panorama Route – famous for its breathtaking views.
The safari camp is a short distance from Kruger Park’s Numbi Gate and is home to some African wildlife, including hippo, giraffe, zebra and impala. In the evening we relax around the camp fire before embarking on our first game drive in Kruger Park tomorrow.
Today we explore the premier Kruger National Park on game viewing drives. This leading African game park covers an area of 21 497 km2 (60 km wide and over 350 km long).
The vast Kruger Park conservation area is home to over 146 mammals, 500 bird, 114 reptile, 33 amphibian & 49 fish species. Around 23 000 different types of plants have also been recorded in this wilderness area.
We spend the day driving through Kruger Park in South Africa in search of the abundance of wildlife inhabiting the game reserve, stopping off at view points as we explore.
We stop off for supplies and continue to the mountainous Kingdom of Swaziland, leaving the bushveld of South Africa behind.
Completing border formalities we then cross into landlocked Swaziland tucked away between South Africa and Mozambique. As we drive up into Swaziland we get to admire the panoramic vistas over its beautiful hills and rural villages.
Our first stop is at the well known Ngwenya Glass workshop run by a small group of Swazi craftsmen and women. Using their age-old artistry these local crafters bring to life enchanting interpretations of the animals and birds of Africa. Browse these Swazi creations in the showroom, to find a charming souvenir with its own personality. The items are all made from 100% recycled glass.
On day four of this South Africa Safari & Beyond we explore the Mlilwane Reserve enjoying some of the activities available.
Activities at Milwane Wildlife Sanctuary include walks, bicycle rides and horse riding excursions in the hills. Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary was the first of Swaziland’s wildlife havens and is home to numerous antelope species and resident bird-life making it an ideal place to explore on foot, or by bicycle.
Our African Camping Safari proceeds south through Swaziland, journeying back into South Africa. We travel towards the town of St Lucia, on the edge of the diverse iSimangaliso Wetland Park.
This World Heritage site stretches along the northern KwaZulu-Natal coast for 220km's. St. Lucia town is nestled between the Indian Ocean and the unspoilt freshwater Estuary of this wetland area. The estuary of Greater St. Lucia is home to a wide variety of bird-life, plenty of resident hippos and crocodiles.
We explore the natural lagoon on a sunset boat cruise in this stunning setting, if time allows.
Travelling further south along South Africa's eastern coast of Kwazulu Natal, we veer inland to the Drakensberg Mountain Range. The highest mountain range in South Africa the Drakensberg mountains were named the ‘mountains of spears’ by early Dutch Settlers.
The impressive Drakensberg Mountains have long been a top favourite among hikers and nature lovers, as there are a variety of lovely view points and walking trails scattered along the base.
Today we enjoy some of the leisure activities available in the southern Drakensberg Mountains in South Africa. You can explore the dragon-like mountains on foot, or on horseback and simply relax at the safari campsite.
Early this morning we hit the road, making our way out of the KwaZulu-Natal province and driving further south into the rugged Eastern Cape province.
Our Southern African Tour to Kruger, Swaziland, Drakensberg & the Garden Route crosses the former homeland of the Transkei.
We pass through scenic landscapes of rolling hills dotted with local villages, based on subsistence farming. Arriving at rustic Coffee Bay on the Wild Coast in the late afternoon, the evening is free for you to relax and unwind.
Discover Coffee Bay today making the most of the remote beaches of the Wild Coast. Beach hike to the famous ‘Hole in the Wall’ or take a surfing lesson with a Pro-Am World Title holder that still surfs competitively today.
Immerse yourself in Xhosa culture on a visit to the local village, or join one of the exciting Day Trips on offer in this rural area.
Back on the road today, we drive through the rural Eastern Cape leaving the Wild Coast behind. Our next safari destination is Addo Park, South Africa’s 3rd largest National Park.
We venture into the Addo Elephant National Park on a game drive in search of its large elephant herds, lions, buffalo, black rhino, spotted hyena, leopard, zebra and a variety of antelope species. This Eastern Cape game park is also home to the unique, flightless Addo dung beetle, almost exclusively found in Addo Park.
On day 11 of this Southern African Safari we get up early and head out on another game drive in Addo Park, taking advantage of the cool morning hours when many animals are stirring.
After game viewing in Addo we drive through the Eastern Cape into the picturesque Garden Route region and on to the Tsitsikamma National Park. We arrive at the scenic Tsitsikamma Park in the afternoon.
This beautiful National Park covers a lush stretch of indigenous forest stretching from the striking coastline to the Tsitsikamma Mountain Range. Some of South Africa’s most colourful birdlife and flora can be seen in this Garden Route wilderness area.
Tsitsikamma Park encompasses the stretch of natural forest alongside the coastline as well as a portion of the adjacent ocean. There are many walks and hikes worth exploring in the afternoon before we set up camp beside the crashing ocean.
Day 12 is free for you to explore the Nature Reserve and participate in some of the optional adventure activities available in this pretty Garden Route region. Plummet off the Bloukrans Bridge, the world’s highest commercial bungee jump to get your adrenalin pumping.
Experience black water tubing on the turbulent Storms River, or explore the indigenous forest on a tree top canopy zip-line tour for a bird's eye view. Or simply enjoy the coastal forest on one of the many hikes in Tsitsikamma National Park.
We carry on driving along the scenic Garden Route, getting an early start today. We make our way to the Klein Karoo town of Oudtshoorn. Set between the Outeniqua & Swartberg Mountain Ranges, this Karoo town was once a trade centre for the ostrich feather industry.
In the afternoon we explore the two top highlights of Oudtshoorn – the famous Cango Caves and a working Ostrich Farm.
Cango Caves is the largest open cave formation in South Africa, offering visitors the chance to get inside the vast caverns and view the spectacular limestone formations. Explore the main cavern on a guided tour to see this underground cave system and learn how these folds of rock have formed over hundreds of years.
After visiting Cango Caves we head to one of Oudtshoorn’s famous Ostrich Farms to learn more about these giant flightless birds and even try riding an ostrich!
Today on this Safari to South Africa & Beyond we travel via the scenic Route 62 travelling to the “Mother City” of Cape Town.
We arrive in Cape Town in the afternoon and have the evening free to experience the vibrant night life of this charming city.
Eat out at one of the excellent restaurants along bustling Long Street, or roam around the V&A Waterfront at the harbour side!
Take a cable car up Cape Town's iconic Table Mountain to watch the sun set over the picturesque city set on the coast of South Africa.
Our journey continues today, as we leave Cape Town and drive around Table Bay, offering panoramic views of Table Mountain and the city in the distance.
Making our way north from Cape Town we travel through the wheat growing region, known as the ‘bread basket’ of South Africa.
We driver over the Piketberg Pass, dipping into the fertile fruit growing valley of the Olifants River, named after the vast Elephant herds that used to roam in this lush area.
The lovely campsite for tonight offers views over the pretty vineyards in this hilly area. In the afternoon you can take a stroll on the local wine farms, enjoying the beautiful views of the Cederberg Mountain range. You also have the chance to taste some of the nectar of the gods later in the afternoon.
Tonight we camp under star-studded African skies – the perfect way to end our relaxing day on safari in South Africa.
Departing from the Cederberg Area we continue driving north into the Namaqualand region, best known for its gorgeous fields of Namaqua wildflowers that bloom in spring.
Having passed through the open Namaqualand area we stop in the small town of Springbok, to stock up on supplies. Then we travel through the Richtersveld desert area and on to the Gariep River, forming a natural border between South Africa and Namibia.
We camp at a beautiful campsite on the banks of the Gariep River, in South Africa. This is South Africa's longest river, formerly known as the Orange River, with its source in the Drakensberg Mountains of Lesotho.
On the morning of day 17 you have the option of taking a half-day canoe trip on the Gariep River. This is a relaxing canoe trip with some easy paddling and plenty of opportunities to enjoy bird watching from the water.
The optional canoe trip is followed by lunch, before we hit the road again. In the afternoon we cross into neighbouring Namibia on safari, heading to the nearby Fish River Canyon.
This impressive Namibian Canyon is the second largest canyon in the world, at 161 km long, 27 km wide and about 550 m deep. The Fish River Canyon was formed by a combination of tectonic activity and river erosion over time.
We follow the road along the eastern edge of the canyon, admiring the breathtaking views over this dramatic gorge.
Today we rise and shine early, driving further north into the ancient Namib-Naukluft desert of Namibia, one of the world's oldest deserts.
Our next overnight camp is at Sesriem, a convenient base for exploring the surrounding Namib Desert. Sossusvlei is a short drive away, and here we experience the many moods of Namibia's desert.
At Sossusvlei we witness the striking sea of towering red sand dunes iconic of Namibia. The Sossusvlei Dunes are said to be the highest dunes in the world, with some reaching over 300m high.
From the dune tops we get to marvel at the endless views over the vast desert landscapes and at night the Namib desert skies reveal a blanket of bright stars like nothing else on earth!
Entering the Namib-Naukluft National Park we explore the dramatic desert terrain this morning.
Starting with a striking sunrise from the top of Dune 45, we continue to the Sossusvlei Desert Region by shuttle bus. This drive takes us 5km's deeper into the Namib Desert to explore the Sossusvlei Dunes, with the option of taking a guided walk at an additional cost.
After exploring the shifting dunes and desert we leave the Namib-Naukluft Park, making our way to our next safari destination in Namibia, Solitaire. Treat yourself to a slice of apple crumble from the lone store in this small hamlet.
We have breakfast this morning, before setting off north-west to Walvis Bay, on the cool Atlantic Coastline of Namibia.
En route to Walvis Bay we cross the Tropic of Capricorn, before following the west coast to Swakopmund. Namibia’s prime holiday resort, Swakopmund, is where we spend the next three nights.
This is a great place to relax and have some fun - exploring the coastal town and participating in optional adventure activities. Our Swakopmund accommodation is in dormitories, but you have the option of upgrading to private rooms through your safari guide (depending on availability).
Founded in 1892, Swakopmund still has a colonial German flavour today, especially visible in its architecture. Swakopmund has a variety of excellent coffee shops, restaurants and bars, as well as an array of arts and crafts stores where you can see Namibian curios.
Walk along the fine beaches and promenade of Swakopmund, or visit the local museum, aquarium and art galleries. Alternatively you might like to get your adrenaline pumping with some of the exhilarating adventure activities available here.
Some of our fellow passengers may choose to end their African Safari in Swakopmund, while new passengers often join us for the remainder of our journey.
Optional excursions include sky diving, quad biking, sand boarding, scenic desert flights, dolphin cruises, fishing trips, golfing, horse riding and more. An activity briefing will be held on arrival in Swakopmund, the Adventure Capital of Namibia.
Onwards to Spitzkoppe, the ‘Matterhorn of Namibia’.
Travelling further north and inland we head to the dramatic landscape of Spitzkoppe, a giant granite outcrop in an otherwise flat part of Namibia, scattered with rocky boulders.
The highest geological formation is about 1728 m high and is recognized as one of the most distinct natural landmarks in Namibia. Spitzkoppe is well known as a sacred site of the ancient San people, housing noteable rock paintings.
We camp in an area of Spitzkoppe run by the local community, offering knowledgeable guides for bush walks to the San Rock Art in the area (at an additional cost). There is time to explore the impressive terrain and visit the San rock art, or relax and admire the striking views.
Our safari camp (no ablution facilities) is set in the remote bush under star-filled African skies.
Today we drive further north to the Otjitotongwe Cheetah Park where we meet the resident cheetahs and enjoy excellent wildlife photo opportunities!
The Cheetah Park is a private farm for conserving the cheetah population of Namibia.
Namibia has a high population of wild, free roaming cheetahs even though cheetahs are endangered in Africa. A number of local farmers have created a wildlife sanctuary for cheetahs that have been trapped, or injured in the area.
On day 25 we pause in Outjo to stock up on supplies, before driving to Etosha National Park, Namibia's premier game park.
Etosha Park covers around 20 000 km² of northern Namibia, located around the Etosha Pan teeming with wildlife, insects and birds. The extensive network of gravel roads in Etosha enables visitors to access some of the most remote areas of this top game park.
In the cooler hours of the day, after lunch, we embark on a game drive in the southern area of Etosha Park. Keeping an eye out for the roaming Oryx and Springbok antelopes, endemic to desert National Parks!
Tonight we camp just outside the Etosha Park, only 10kms from Anderson Gate. Take a refreshing dip in the pool or enjoy a sun downer on the camp's deck before dinner, followed by a laid-back evening at the interesting bar.
Crossing some 150 km of the Etosha Game Park, we pass through different types of vegetation as we drive, as well as the changing animal and bird life that these varying habitats support.
Enjoy a full day of game viewing in Etosha Park, admiring the African bush scenes and the rich variety of nature's creatures.
Our overnight camp, Namutoni, is set inside the northern part of the game park. After dinner you can head down to one of the nearby floodlit waterholes of Etosha for more game viewing. Here you can observe the wild animals as they come to quench their thirst in the evenings.
Leaving the unique Etosha Park today, we travel north-east to Namibia’s Caprivi Strip, heading to the fertile Kavango region near the northern border of Namibia.
Stopping at the border town of Rundu to top up on supplieswe drive to our beautiful campsite located on the banks of the Kavango River. From riverside deck at camp we watch as the sun sets over the Kavango, looking out for the occasional hippo grazing on the lush camp lawns!
We follow the course of the Kavango River south, before crossing into Botswana, one of Africa's best safari destinations!
Once in Botswana we head east along the Okavango River and on to the town of Maun, located on the southern edge of the watery Okavango Delta.
Maun is the gateway for trips into the Okavango Delta and serves as our base for exploring the untamed wetland system.
Tonight we prepare for our two night optional excursion into the wild Delta of Botswana. We suggest that you bring a smaller daypack on your trip to use on this short excursion.
Your safari leader will brief you on what is needed, and what to expect on your trip into the Delta. In the morning we will set off from Maun on our journey into this incredible wilderness area.
The Okavango Delta is famous for its rich variety of bird species and wild animals. This huge expanse of water is unique to Southern Africa being home to a plethora of bird life and animals and with its source in the Angolan highlands. The Delta runs down from the highlands spreading out over the plains where it empties into the Kalahari Desert.
Day 29 of this Safari to South Africa & Beyond offers the chance to take a 3-Day and 2 Night drive and Mokoro trip into the Okavango Delta.
This optional excursion entails a drive from Maun up north for a couple of hours reaching the Mokoro polers' station. The dug out Mokoros are traditional canoes that local guides "pole" through the reeds and winding waterways. The guides locate a suitable site for camping and in the afternoon we set off on a game walk to get up close to the wilderness that is the Okavango Delta.
The alternative to the optional excursion exploring the Delta is to take it easy at the campsite in Maun, lazing by the swimming pool or playing a fun game of volleyball. The nearby crocodile farm also admits visitors from the campsite to witness the spectacle of feeding times. The driver and cook stay in Maun during the Okavango Delta excursion.
On day 30 of this Budget African Safari we will be based at the remote Delta camp. This day of rest is for relaxing and exploring the Okavango Delta, before we continue on our exciting safari adventures.
You can take a game walk, go swimming (water levels allowing), enjoy a Mokoro cruise and even try your hand at poling a mokoro on the waters. Or just sit back and soak up the sounds of unspoilt nature and take a nap at camp.
Last chance to take a game walk in the Okavango Delta bush before we head back to Maun. We leave the Okavango by Mekoro and then transfer to a safari vehicle for the rest of the journey back to Maun.
Arriving in the early afternoon we have time for a fantastic optional scenic flight over the Delta at sunset.
We travel east and then north to the Botswana town of Kasane where we set up camp on the banks of the Chobe River, before taking a boat cruise.
The Chobe River is home to hippos and other wildlife and forms a natural border between Botswana, Namibia and Zambia. Elephant, hippo and many bird species can be sighted from the boat while we watch another spectacular African sunset over the bush. Listen out for the hippos nearby!
Enjoy a sleep-in this morning or explore Kasane town, located on the banks of the Chobe River.
After lunch we take another relaxing boat cruise on the Chobe River, the main source of water in Chobe National Park. Returning from our boat cruise we prepare for our overnight Chobe National Park trip.
Then we make our way into this top Botswana game reserve for our overnight experience in the African wilderness of Chobe National Park. Chobe Park is one of the premier game parks in Botswana, renowned for its large herds of migratory elephants.
In the afternoon we explore Chobe on a game drive en route to our safari camp inside the game park. On the game viewing drive rare Sable and Roan Antelope are often sighted, keep an eye out for their destinct backward slanting horns, or watch the numerous swooping Lilac Breasted Rollers!
We spend the evening musing over our wildlife encounters in Chobe Park and listening to the night sounds of nearby wildlife, interspersed by the silence of the African bush.
Getting up early after our night in the Botswana bush, we set off on a morning game drive in search of Chobe's wildlife. After our rewarding game drive we pack up camp and travel back to the town of Kasane and on to Vic Falls.
Back at the Kasane camp we transfer to our safari truck and take the short drive to the Zimbabwe border. Border formalities behind us, we cover the last bit of ground to nearby Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.
Named after the famous World Heritage Site and Waterfall, the town of Victoria Falls is located along the Zambezi River, surrounded by the Victoria Falls National Park. Our safari campsite is conveniently situated in the centre of Victoria Falls town, within walking distance of the local restaurants, shops and booking agents for adventure activities.
A 20 minute walk takes you to the entry point for viewing the spectacular Vic Falls, falling between Zimbabwe and Zambia. Victoria Falls, or Mosi-oa-Tunya (the Smoke that Thunders), was named by the explorer David Livingstone and is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Victoria Falls is the world's largest sheet of falling water at 1700 m wide and about 100 m high. An awesome and memorable sight on any African Safari!
A short adventure activities brief is followed by an afternoon of leisure for you to unwind at the campsite’s swimming pool, view the mighty Victoria Falls, or explore the sights and delights of Vic Falls town!
After breakfast in Victoria Falls town, we exchange addresses and part ways, having experienced the African Safari Trip of a lifetime!
We recommend that you book a few extra days in Victoria Falls, after your Safari to South Africa & Beyond to take advantage of the fantastic Optional Adventure Activities at Victoria Falls.
Optional Excursions include elephant back safaris, horseback safaris, walking with lions, a visit to the crocodile ranch, boat cruises and golf at The Elephant Hills Resort. Adrenalin junkies can bungee from Victoria Falls Bridge connecting Zimbabwe and Zambia or abseil down the Batoka Gorge - neither activity is for the faint hearted!
Flights over Vic Falls in fixed wing, micro light and ultra light aircraft or helicopters provide an aerial perspective of this magnificent World Heritage Site, all year round. White water rafting on the Zambezi River is world class. In addition to the excitement of the Grade 5 rapids, there are the "floats," where there is time to admire the towering cliffs and occasional wildlife on the Zambezi riverbanks.
Please Note:
This African Budget Safari begins in Johannesburg, South Africa and travels through South Africa and Swaziland, Namibia and Botswana before ending in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.
This camping trip departs from Johannesburg early on Sunday morning. Should you wish to explore Johannesburg, an earlier arrival is recommended. Accommodation can be booked through African Budget Safaris.
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.
Click the image to enlarge
]]>This Southern Africa Budget Safari Trip starts in Cape Town, South Africa travelling north through South Africa, Namibia and Botswana, before driving south through Zimbabwe and Mozambique and ending in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Wildlife, natural wonders, scenic landscapes, beaches and cultural discovery - this Budget African Camping Safari has it all!
Our Southern Africa Budget Safari Trip departs from Cape Town, driving around Table Bay, which offers panoramic views of Table Mountain and the lovely city in the distance.
Making our way north from Cape Town we travel through the wheat growing region, known as the ‘bread basket’ of South Africa.
We driver over the Piketberg Pass, dipping into the fertile fruit growing valley of the Olifants River, named after the vast Elephant herds that used to roam in this lush area.
The lovely campsite for tonight offers views over the pretty vineyards in this hilly area. In the afternoon you can take a stroll on the local wine farms, enjoying the beautiful views of the Cederberg Mountain range. You also have the chance to taste some of the nectar of the gods later in the afternoon.
Tonight we camp under star-studded African skies – the perfect way to end our first relaxing day on safari in Southern Africa.
Departing from the Cederberg Area we continue driving north into the Namaqualand region, best known for its gorgeous fields of Namaqua wildflowers that bloom in spring.
Having passed through the open Namaqualand area we stop in the small town of Springbok, to stock up on supplies. Then we travel through the Richtersveld desert area and on to the Gariep River, forming a natural border between South Africa and Namibia.
We camp at a scenic campsite on the banks of the Gariep River, in South Africa. This is South Africa's longest river, formerly known as the Orange River, with its source in the Drakensberg Mountains of Lesotho.
On the morning of day three you have the option of taking a half-day canoe trip on the Gariep River. This is a relaxing canoe trip with some easy paddling and plenty of opportunities to enjoy bird watching from the water.
The optional canoe trip is followed by lunch, before we hit the road again. In the afternoon we cross into neighbouring Namibia on safari, heading to the nearby Fish River Canyon.
This impressive Namibian Canyon is the second largest canyon in the world, at 161 km long, 27 km wide and about 550 m deep. The Fish River Canyon was formed by a combination of tectonic activity and river erosion over time.
We follow the road along the eastern edge of the canyon, admiring the breathtaking views over this dramatic gorge.
Today we rise and shine early, driving further north into the ancient Namib-Naukluft desert of Namibia, one of the world's oldest deserts.
Our next overnight camp is at Sesriem, a convenient base for exploring the surrounding Namib Desert. Sossusvlei is a short drive away, and here we experience the many moods of Namibia's desert.
At Sossusvlei we witness the striking sea of towering red sand dunes iconic of Namibia. The Sossusvlei Dunes are said to be the highest dunes in the world, with some reaching over 300m high.
From the dune tops we get to marvel at the endless views over the vast desert landscapes and at night the Namib desert skies reveal a blanket of bright stars like nothing else on earth!
Entering the Namib-Naukluft National Park we explore the dramatic desert terrain this morning.
Starting with a striking sunrise from the top of Dune 45, we continue to the Sossusvlei Desert Region by shuttle bus. This drive takes us 5km's deeper into the Namib Desert to explore the Sossusvlei Dunes, with the option of taking a guided walk at an additional cost.
After exploring the shifting dunes and desert we leave the Namib-Naukluft Park, making our way to our next safari destination in Namibia, Solitaire. Treat yourself to a slice of apple crumble from the lone store in this small hamlet.
We have breakfast this morning, before setting off north-west to Walvis Bay, on the cool Atlantic Coastline of Namibia.
En route to Walvis Bay we cross the Tropic of Capricorn, before following the west coast to Swakopmund. Namibia’s prime holiday resort, Swakopmund, is where we spend the next couple of nights.
This is a great place to relax and have some fun - exploring the coastal town and participating in optional adventure activities. Our Swakopmund accommodation is in dormitories, but you have the option of upgrading to private rooms through your safari guide (depending on availability).
Namibia’s prime holiday resort, Swakopmund is a great place to relax and have some fun - exploring the coastal town and participating in optional adventure activities.
Founded in 1892, Swakopmund still has a colonial German flavour today, especially visible in its architecture. Swakopmund has a variety of excellent coffee shops, restaurants and bars, as well as an array of arts and crafts stores where you can see Namibian curios.
Walk along the fine beaches and promenade of Swakopmund, or visit the local museum, aquarium and art galleries. Alternatively you might like to get your adrenaline pumping with some of the exhilarating adventure activities available here.
Some of our fellow passengers may choose to end their African Safari in Swakopmund, while new passengers often join us for the remainder of our journey. Our Swakopmund accommodation is in dormitories, but you have the option of upgrading to private rooms through your safari guide (depending on availability).
Optional excursions include sky diving, quad biking, sand boarding, scenic desert flights, dolphin cruises, fishing trips, golfing, horse riding and more. An activity briefing will be held on arrival in Swakopmund, the Adventure Capital of Namibia.
Onwards to Spitzkoppe, the ‘Matterhorn of Namibia’.
Travelling further north and inland we head to the dramatic landscape of Spitzkoppe, a giant granite outcrop in an otherwise flat part of Namibia, scattered with rocky boulders.
The highest geological formation is about 1728 m high and is recognized as one of the most distinct natural landmarks in Namibia. Spitzkoppe is well known as a sacred site of the ancient San people, housing noteable rock paintings.
We camp in an area of Spitzkoppe run by the local community, offering knowledgeable guides for bush walks to the San Rock Art in the area (at an additional cost). There is time to explore the impressive terrain and visit the San rock art, or relax and admire the striking views.
Our safari camp (no ablution facilities) is set in the remote bush under star-filled African skies.
Today we drive further north to the Otjitotongwe Cheetah Park where we meet the resident cheetahs and enjoy excellent wildlife photo opportunities!
The Cheetah Park is a private farm for conserving the cheetah population of Namibia.
Namibia has a high population of wild, free roaming cheetahs even though cheetahs are endangered in Africa. A number of local farmers have created a wildlife sanctuary for cheetahs that have been trapped, or injured in the area.
On day 11 we pause in Outjo to stock up on supplies, before driving to Etosha National Park, Namibia's premier game park.
Etosha Park covers around 20 000 km² of northern Namibia, located around the Etosha Pan teeming with wildlife, insects and birds. The extensive network of gravel roads in Etosha enables visitors to access some of the most remote areas of this top game park.
In the cooler hours of the day, after lunch, we embark on a game drive in the southern area of Etosha Park. Keeping an eye out for the roaming Oryx and Springbok antelopes, endemic to desert National Parks!
Tonight we camp just outside the Etosha Park, only 10kms from Anderson Gate. Take a refreshing dip in the pool or enjoy a sun downer on the camp's deck before dinner, followed by a laid-back evening at the interesting bar.
Crossing some 150 km of the Etosha Game Park, we pass through different types of vegetation as we drive, as well as the changing animal and bird life that these varying habitats support.
Enjoy a full day of game viewing in Etosha Park, admiring the African bush scenes and the rich variety of nature's creatures.
Our overnight camp, Namutoni, is set inside the northern part of the game park. After dinner you can head down to one of the nearby floodlit waterholes of Etosha for more game viewing. Here you can observe the wild animals as they come to quench their thirst in the evenings.
Leaving the unique Etosha Park today, we travel north-east to Namibia’s Caprivi Strip, heading to the fertile Kavango region near the northern border of Namibia.
Stopping at the border town of Rundu to top up on supplieswe drive to our beautiful campsite located on the banks of the Kavango River. From the riverside deck at camp we watch as the sun sets over the Kavango, looking out for the occasional hippo grazing on the lush camp lawns!
We follow the course of the Kavango River south, before crossing into Botswana, one of Africa's best safari destinations!
Once in Botswana we head east along the Okavango River and on to the town of Maun, located on the southern edge of the watery Okavango Delta.
Maun is the gateway for trips into the Okavango Delta and serves as our base for exploring the untamed wetland system.
Tonight we prepare for our two night optional excursion into the wild Delta of Botswana. We suggest that you bring a smaller daypack on your trip to use on this short excursion.
Your safari leader will brief you on what is needed, and what to expect on your trip into the Delta. In the morning we will set off from Maun on our journey into this incredible wilderness area.
The Okavango Delta is famous for its rich variety of bird species and wild animals. This huge expanse of water is unique to Southern Africa being home to a plethora of bird life and animals and with its source in the Angolan highlands. The Delta runs down from the highlands spreading out over the plains where it empties into the Kalahari Desert.
Day 15 of this Southern Africa Budget Safari Trip offers the chance to take an optional 3-Day and 2 Night drive and Mokoro trip into the Okavango Delta.
This optional excursion entails a drive from Maun up north for a couple of hours reaching the Mokoro polers' station. The dug out Mokoros are traditional canoes that local guides "pole" through the reeds and winding waterways. The guides locate a suitable site for camping and in the afternoon we set off on a game walk to get up close to the wilderness that is the Okavango Delta.
The alternative to the optional excursion exploring the Delta is to take it easy at the campsite in Maun, lazing by the swimming pool or playing a fun game of volleyball. The nearby crocodile farm also admits visitors from the campsite to witness the spectacle of feeding times. The driver and cook stay in Maun during the Okavango Delta excursion.
On day 16 of this Southern Africa Budget Safari we will be based at the remote Delta camp. This day of rest is for relaxing and exploring the Okavango Delta, before we continue on our exciting safari adventures.
You can take a game walk, go swimming (water levels allowing), enjoy a Mokoro cruise and even try your hand at poling a mokoro on the waters. Or just sit back and soak up the sounds of unspoilt nature and take a nap at camp.
Last chance to take a game walk in the Okavango Delta bush before we head back to Maun. We leave the Okavango by Mekoro and then transfer to a safari vehicle for the rest of the journey back to Maun.
Arriving in the early afternoon we have time for a fantastic optional scenic flight over the Delta at sunset.
We travel east and then north to the Botswana town of Kasane where we set up camp on the banks of the Chobe River, before taking a boat cruise.
The Chobe River is home to hippos and other wildlife and forms a natural border between Botswana, Namibia and Zambia. Elephant, hippo and many bird species can be sighted from the boat while we watch another spectacular African sunset over the bush. Listen out for the hippos nearby!
Enjoy a sleep-in this morning or explore Kasane town, located on the banks of the Chobe River.
After lunch we take a relaxing boat cruise on the Chobe River, the main source of water in Chobe National Park. Returning from our boat cruise we prepare for our overnight Chobe National Park trip.
Then we make our way into this top Botswana game reserve for our overnight experience in the African wilderness of Chobe National Park. Chobe Park is one of the premier game parks in Botswana, renowned for its large herds of migratory elephants.
In the afternoon we explore Chobe on a game drive en route to our safari camp inside the game park. On the game viewing drive rare Sable and Roan Antelope are often sighted, keep an eye out for their destinct backward slanting horns, or watch the numerous swooping Lilac Breasted Rollers!
We spend the evening musing over our wildlife encounters in Chobe Park and listening to the night sounds of nearby wildlife, interspersed by the silence of the African bush.
Getting up early after our night in the Botswana bush, we set off on a morning game drive in search of Chobe's wildlife. After our rewarding game drive we pack up camp and travel back to the town of Kasane and on to Vic Falls.
Back at the Kasane camp we transfer to our safari truck and take the short drive to the Zimbabwe border. Border formalities behind us, we cover the last bit of ground to nearby Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.
Named after the famous World Heritage Site and Waterfall, the town of Victoria Falls is located along the Zambezi River, surrounded by the Victoria Falls National Park. Our safari campsite is conveniently situated in the centre of Victoria Falls town, within walking distance of the local restaurants, shops and booking agents for adventure activities.
A 20 minute walk takes you to the entry point for viewing the spectacular Vic Falls, falling between Zimbabwe and Zambia. Victoria Falls, or Mosi-oa-Tunya (the Smoke that Thunders), was named by the explorer David Livingstone and is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Victoria Falls is the world's largest sheet of falling water at 1700 m wide and about 100 m high. An awesome and memorable sight on any African Safari!
A short adventure activities brief is followed by an afternoon of leisure for you to unwind at the campsite’s swimming pool, view the mighty Victoria Falls, or explore the sights and delights of Vic Falls town!
For the next two days you are free to relax and explore the area as well as taking advantage of some of the fantastic Optional Adventure Activities at Victoria Falls.
Some of our fellow travellers may end their tour in Vic Falls and new passengers often join us for the next leg of our affordable African Safari.
Optional Excursions include elephant back safaris, horseback safaris, walking with lions, 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 River is world class. In addition to the excitement of the Grade 5 rapids, there are the "floats," where there is time to admire the towering cliffs and occasional wildlife on the riverbanks.
Continuing our African Camping Safari early in the morning, we travel to Zimbabwe’s oldest and largest game reserve, Hwange National Park. Hwange Park is renowned for its diverse and plentiful wildlife species, including thousands of elephants, along with rare Sable and Roan Antelope species.
Arriving at this well-known Zimbabwean game park we enjoy lunch, before embarking on an exciting game drive in Hwange Park. We explore the untamed wilderness area in search of its varied wildlife species.
Day 24 sees us rising with the sun and heading off into Hwange Park to explore this reserve some more, before departing for Bulawayo in the mid-morning.
Bulawayo is the second largest city in Zimbabwe and is characterized by wide streets, originally designed to accommodate full span ox wagons.
The rich British Colonial influences can still be seen in the city's old buildings that have been maintained as heritage sites by the Bulawayo City Council. Places of interest include the Natural History Museum, the National Arts Gallery and the Mzilikazi Arts and Crafts Centre, employing over 70 people.
Stock up on supplies and explore the city, before we hit the road for our next safari stop - Gweru, in Zimbabwe’s Midlands.
Our Southern Africa Budget Safari Trip takes us to the Antelope Park where we stay over for tonight.
Some say that you haven't really been to Zimbabwe until you have visited the famous Victoria Falls, and Antelope Park - a must-visit on a Zimbabwe visit. This area of Zimbabwe offers open game viewing drives and much more, boasting a wide range of game viewing opportunities.
From the unique chance to walk with lions in the bush, to taking a swim or ride on elephant back or going game viewing on horseback.
These game viewing activities help fund the ALERT project, aimed at conserving African lions. The Antelope Park area is home to lions, elephants, giraffes and, of course, numerous antelopes!
Today we enjoy some game viewing activities and have the chance to get up close to Africa’s wildlife at Antelope Park.
Take a thrilling walk with lions, ride through bush and water on elephant back, or venture out on a night game drive!
Moving on from the special Antelope Park, we drive across Zimbabwe’s Eastern Highlands to Mozambique.
Passing the town of Mutare, we continue to our first Mozambique campsite, set on the banks of Lake Chicamba.
Lake Chicamba is a popular Angling destination, located where the Revue and Messica Rivers meet.
This Mozambiquan lake is well-stocked with big Bass, Carp, Bream and Catfish, making it an Anglers paradise!
From Bandula we travel to Vilanculous on the tropical coast of Mozambique.
Villanculous is the base for excursions to the Bazaruto Archipelago's three main islands. We arrive at the coastline of the warm Indian Ocean in the afternoon and spend the next two nights here.
From Villanculous you have the chance to take a boat charter out to the smaller Bazaruto island of Magaruque for the day.
Dhow sailing trips, sunset cruises, horse riding, big game fishing, seasonal whale watching and other activities are also available at Vilanculous.
We take a leisurely drive down the coast of Mozambique to the picturesque Morrungulu Resort today.
The resort camp is nestled among coconut palm plantations, offering a truly tropical island feel – but beware of falling coconuts! Try out deep-sea fishing, or simply enjoy a relaxing stroll along the beach.
Today we keep travelling south down the coast of Mozambique towards our next safari destination. The next two days on this African Budget Safari are spent in Inhambane, the centre of trade in Portuguese East Africa during colonial years. Today Maputo is the capital of Mozambique, as well as the trade centre.
The beaches just outside of Inhambane are well known for their good scuba diving sites, due to the variety of reefs nearby.
You are free to spend the day at leisure soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Go diving to discover the abundant marine life along the coast, browse the bustling “Mecado Central” (central market), or explore the beaches on horseback.
Inhambane offers some of the best scuba diving in the world with reefs close to all of the beaches, including the famous Manta Reef and Gallaria. Marine sightings include Manta Rays, Whale Sharks, Turtles and a host of other marine life.
There are various professional scuba diving operators along this stretch of Mozambique coast and dives can be booked with them on arrival at the safari camp. For those wishing to see the spectacular marine life that are not able to dive, snorkelling is also excellent.
Driving further south we cross the border into South Africa, leaving the warm waters of the inviting Mozambique coast behind.
We make our way to the world-famous Kruger National Park teeming with wildlife. Entering this top top African game park in the late afternoon, an exhilarating game drive brings us to our safari campsite inside Kruger Park.
In the evening we relax around the camp fire and get a good night's rest before our morning game drive in Kruger tomorrow.
Today we explore the premier Kruger National Park on game viewing drives. This leading African game park covers an area of 21 497 km2 (60 km wide and over 350 km long).
The vast Kruger Park conservation area is home to over 146 mammals, 500 bird, 114 reptile, 33 amphibian & 49 fish species. Around 23 000 different types of plants have also been recorded in this wilderness area.
We spend the day driving through Kruger Park in South Africa in search of the abundance of wildlife inhabiting the game reserve, stopping off at view points as we explore. Tonight we spend the evening at one of the southern camps in Kruger National Park, surrounded by the game-rich bush.
Our Southern Africa Budget Safari Trip departs from the Kruger Park region travelling via the southern section of the picturesque Panorama Route to our final destination, Johannesburg. We arrive in the late afternoon where this African Camping Safari finishes on arrival at a selected Backpacker Lodge in Benoni.
We recommend that you extend your stay by a few days to participate in some of the exciting activities available in Johannesburg. Post tour accommodation can be booked through African Budget Safaris.
This Budget African Safari begins in Cape Town, South Africa and travels north through South Africa, Namibia and Botswana, and then travels south through Zimbabwe and Mozambique before ending in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The Budget Camping Safari departs from departs from Cape Town early on Sunday mornings. Should you wish to explore Nairobi, an earlier arrival is recommended. Accommodation can be booked through African Budget Safaris.
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 safari trip.
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