African Budget Safaris | Cheap, Quality Southern & East Africa Tours

JOHANNESBURG to NAIROBI - This trip starts in Johannesburg and travels north through South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania and finishes in Nairobi, Kenya.

Please note that this trip departs Johannesburg on a Wednesday, early morning. Should you wish to spend extra time there an earlier arrival should be planned and additional accommodation booked through the African Budget Safaris office.

Pre Departure Meeting: Held at departure point at 5:00pm the day before your departure.
Departure Point: Ritz backpackers 1A North Road, Dunkled West.
Check In Time: 8:45am
Departure Time: 9:30am

TOUR COST: R11290 + Local Payment: US$595

Itinerary:
DAY 01: Johannesburg to Hazyview
Departing Johannesburg we head towards the Lowveld and the very famous Kruger National Park, our camp for the next two nights is 8km from Kruger Parks Numbi Gate. Spoilt with a swimming pool and good hot showers we spend the evening around the campfire anticipating our game drive tomorrow. (L,D)

DAY 02: Hazyview
Today we explore the wonders of Kruger National Park. This is one of the most famous wildlife parks in the world. Covering an area of 21, 497 sq km – 60km wide and over 350km long, this conservation area has more than 500 bird species, 114 reptile, 49 fish, 33 amphibians, 146 mammals and over 23000 plant species have been recorded. Today is spent in the Park on a full day game drive to see how many of the species can be found. Tonight there is an option of a night drive in the park (B, L, D)

DAY 03: Hazyview to Graskop
After a quick replenishing of our stocks we leave the Lowveld, climbing up in altitude to the beautiful town of Graskop, it is from this gateway that we get to explore the beauties of Mpumulanga, known for some of the best landscape in South Africa. Our stops for the day include the ever striking Blyde River Canyon and Gods Window. There is a chance to view the Canyon from the many viewpoints, which offers fantastic photographic opportunities. We then set up camp on lush green grass and enjoy the luxuries of a swimming pool with the most amazing view. For those in a party mood the small town of Graskops nightlife is something to be indulged in. (B, L, D)

DAY 04: Graskop to Messina
A long yet lovely days drive as we head up north toward Zimbabwe, this is your chance to sit back, relax and enjoy the ever changing scenery, tonight is our last night in beautiful South Africa in a town called Messina – said to be one of the hottest areas in South Africa. Years back this was a flourishing copper mining area, but with the mines closing down in the early 1990’s it tumbled into the darkness of a small quiet ghost town. With the discovery of diamonds it has again once flourished into its former self, and now a sphere filled with history. (B, L, D)

DAY 05: Messina to Masivingo
Leaving South Africa we enter Zimbabwe a country of tradition, culture, soul and a lot of scenic beauty. We make our way to the town of Masivingo, which lies in the outskirts of the Great Zimbabwe Ruins. Great Zimbabwe was the greatest medieval city in sub-Sahara and provides evidence that an ancient African civilization reached a very high level of civilization. The name Zimbabwe is derived from the Shona word meaning great stone houses. The grand setting and history soaked walls certainly qualify as one of the highlights of our trip. You will have the time to wander around this ancient wonderland before setting up camp for our first night in Zimbabwe. (B, L, D)

DAY 06: Masivingo to Gweru
Once we have finished exploring this historic area we continue our journey to Gweru, situated in the Zimbabwe Midlands. Here we stop over at The Antelope Park. People say you have not been to Zimbabwe until you have visited the Victoria Falls … AND The Antelope Park. Here you have the opportunity to partake in an incredible experience unique to The Antelope Park - ‘Walking with the lions”. In addition to the lions there is an abundance of other wildlife species in the park such as elephants, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest and over 150 bird species. (B, L, D)

DAY 07: Gweru – Antelope Park
Today is spent as leisure with a variety of activities to enthral you. From walking with Lions, elephant riding, swimming on the majestic elephant, to trying your hand at fishing the list is endless. (B, L, D)

DAYS 08: Gweru to Bulawayo
Bulawayo is the second largest city in Zimbabwe with a laid back atmosphere. It is noted for the exceptionally wide streets, which were originally designed to allow space for a full span ox wagon. The city is still characterised by the many old British colonial buildings, maintained by the Bulawayo City Council as heritage sites. There are a number of interesting places to visit in Bulawayo such as The natural History Museum, the National Arts Gallery and the Mzilikazi Arts and Crafts Centre, providing work for over 70 people. (B, L, D)

DAY 09: Bulawayo
Today we take in Matobo National Park. The park is one of the last strongholds of both black and white rhino, and the region is renowned for it’s high concentration of leopards and black eagle. There are numerous caves and rock painting which once again is evidence of the ancient San inhabitants of this area. Cecil Rhodes (after whom Rhodesia was named) is buried here at his own request, but there is some controversy over whether he will stay! We spend time game driving through the park giving you an insight into the unique geological, ecological and historical environment. (B, L, D)

DAY 10: Bulawayo to Victoria Falls
Heading north we make our way to the mighty Victoria Falls, one of the natural wonders of the world. Victoria Falls is one of the memorable sights on your African safari. There are many activities available all year round such as, flights can be taken which gives you a panoramic view of the Falls, Batoka Gorge and the islands above the falls. Back on the ground, the Falls can be seen from the Victoria Falls Park with its many viewing points, or from the Zambian side. All offer fantastic photographic opportunities.

White water rafting in the Batoka Gorge is considered to be world class. Besides the excitement of the grade 5 rapids, there are "floats” where there is time to admire the scenic cliffs and occasional wildlife on the riverbanks.
Bungee jumping enthusiasts can take the plunge from the Zambezi Bridge, which connects Zambia and Zimbabwe. The leap into the Batoka Gorge is certainly not for the faint-hearted.

Other optional activities around Victoria Falls include day trips into the Zambezi National Park, horse riding safaris, a visit to the Crocodile Ranch, Snake Park, golf at Elephant Hills Hotel, parachuting, the Falls Craft Village and the Sunset Cruise. We suggest you allow yourself a few days after your safari if you wish to partake in some of the many activities. We have an office situated in the heart of Victoria Falls town and our friendly staff will be more than willing to help you arrange any activities you wish to do. (B, L)

DAYS 11 & 12: Victoria Falls
The next 2 days are at your own leisure to partake in activities or relax at the campsite swimming pool. We will also have some new clients joining us for the second part of the tour. (B on both days)

DAY 13 Victoria Falls to Livingstone (Zambia)
We leave Zimbabwe and cross the Victoria Falls Bridge and the Zambezi River, entering into Zambia at the town of Livingstone. We have the opportunity to view The Falls from the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Zambia. Another fantastic photo opportunity. The day affords us the opportunity to participate in the activities available in Zambia we weren’t able to do on the Zimbabwean side of the Falls. Tonight we have the option of enjoying a sunset dinner cruise on the mighty Zambezi.(B, L, D)

DAY 14 Livingstone to Lusaka
An early morning start sees us head north through southern Zambia to our campsite on the outskirts of Zambia’s capital city, Lusaka. The campsite is home to some local wildlife including the largest antelope – Eland. (B,L,D)

DAY 15 Lusaka to Chipata
From Lusaka we head north east to a beautiful little campsite just 10 km before the Zambia/Malawi border. Here we spend the night before heading into Malawi. (B,L,D)

DAYS 16 to 20: Chipata to Lake Malawi Beaches (Malawi)
Leaving Zambia we cross into Malawi, the ‘Warm Heart of Africa’. We stop off in the capital, Lilongwe, a small city distinctively divided into the old town and the new administrative centre. Malawi is a landlocked country with 20% of its total area made up of beautiful Lake Malawi. We travel the full length of the western side of the lake, stopping off at various bays and inlets over the next 5 days. Spend the days learning the game of bao from the locals, scour the markets for a bargain or simply relax on the pristine beaches. Malawi’s temperate climate allows for swimming in the clear blue fresh-water lake all year round. Explore the beautiful shore where you’ll happen upon the local fishermen sorting their catch. Traditional fishing techniques are still practiced and to appreciate their boating skills, try to paddle a dug out canoe yourself! The various beachside campsites along Lake Malawi’s shores offer many optional Excursions including a variety of water sports, horse back rides and a visit to the local village and school. (B,L,D)

DAY 21: Lake Malawi to Iringa (Tanzania)
After a relaxing 5 days, we leave Malawi, entering Tanzania through the border post at Songwe. Taking in the beauty of the Tukuyu tea and banana plantations, we head towards Iringa where we spend the night in the beautiful rustic ‘Farmhouse’ campsite famous for its Amarula Hot Chocolates and its steamy showers!(B,L,D)

DAY 22: Iringa to Dar es Salaam
The next morning we proceed to Dar es Salaam, passing through Mikumi National Park where it is possible to view a range of wildlife from the roadside, totally impervious to humans and their vehicles. On arrival in Dar es Salaam, we spend the night at a beach hotel/campsite that is situated to the north of the city, and prepare for our departure to Zanzibar the next morning. (B,L,D)

DAY 23: Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar
A ferry from Dar es Salaam takes us to the "Spice Island", where we will spend three nights on this legendary island. Zanzibar is steeped in history and was one of the major starting points for most East African explorers in their quest for new lands. (B)

Please note: From our experience our clients have felt the need to explore the island on their own, therefore accommodation and food is for client’s own account whilst on Zanzibar, but our trip leader accompany clients to the island and will be able to book accommodation and tours on the island

DAY 24 & 25: Zanzibar
History aside, Zanzibar offers a wealth of experiences for the visitor. Today the quiet streets of the old Stone Town still retain their Arabic influence, from the Medina-like shops to the palaces of the Sultans, who founded their vast empires on the spoils of the slave and ivory trade. The island is still famous for its spices, and tours around a spice plantation can be organised. Other options include a trip to the nearby Prison Island with its giant tortoises, and beautiful beaches to enjoy. Or perhaps you would enjoy the opportunity to hire a motorbike and explore the more remote areas of the island.

Zanzibar is a seafood lover’s paradise. Numerous restaurants offer a great variety of the freshest catch from the ocean - giant lobsters being a popular speciality. Alternatively, joining the locals for dinner in the waterfront market is an experience not to be missed. The market stalls offer an unusual selection of fast food African style at a very reasonable cost.

DAY 26: Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam
Leaving Zanzibar we take the ferry back to mainland for an overnight in Dar es Salaam.(D)

DAY 27: Dar es Salaam to Arusha
From Dar es Salaam we travel through the countryside with its vast sisal plantations to Arusha. On the way we pass the Pare and Usambara Mountain ranges before driving through the town of Moshi, the base for Mt. Kilimanjaro climbing expeditions, and weather permitting, we may catch a glimpse of this magical mountain’s snowy summit. A photo opportunity not to be missed! (B,L,D)

DAY 28 - 30: Arusha / Optional Ngorongoro Crater/Serengeti Excursion
Arusha is a pleasant town situated at the base of Mount Meru and is the starting point for the optional excursions to Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti. We conduct these excursions in locally operated 4WD vehicles, which are adapted for safari use. Depending on which option you choose, you will be away from the Arusha campsite for either one or two nights For those not opting to visit the Ngorongoro Crater or Serengeti National Park, the next 2 days are spent at leisure enjoying the Meserani reptile park, Masai Cultural Museum and the surrounding villages and craft markets. Alternatively the town of Arusha is close by to explore. (B,L,D) The Optional Ngorongoro/Serengeti excursion takes us via the Masai town of Mtu Wa Mbu (Mosquito River) that lies adjacent to the Lake Manyara National Park and up the Rift Valley Escarpment to the higher lying village of Karatu. Karatu offers magnificent views over the surrounding hills and has many well established wheat farms that add to the picturesque panoramas. We spend the evening at a pleasant campsite in Karatu. The following morning we depart early for the Ngorongoro Conservation area and head into the wildlife rich Ngorongoro Crater. This World Heritage Site boasts some of the best game viewing in Africa – including the elusive Black Rhino. Those on the 1 night option will transfer back to Meserani after the game drive. After our game drive in the Crater, we head down the Crater rim and past the ‘Cradle of Mankind’ on our way to the Serengeti National Park. We cross the vast plains as we game drive through the southern and central areas in the park. Tonight we camp in the bushveld surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness. In the morning, we head off for another game drive and explore the landscape in search of the resident game. With some luck, we may see some of Africa’s ‘Big 5’! After our morning drive, we head back across the plains and the lush Crater rim to our truck at Arusha, where we spend the evening musing over our thrilling wildlife experience. (B,L,D)

DAY 31: Arusha to Namanga
After a leisurely morning start and the chance to explore the snake exhibits at our campsite in Arusha we will take some time in Arusha for our last Tanzanian stop. Explore the craft markets in town or stop at the bakery for a local coffee. Lunch will be just outside town as we head the last 120kms north to the Tanzania / Kenya border town of Namanga. After competing formalities we will camp at Namanga on the Kenyan side of the border. (B,L,D)

DAY 32: Namanga to Nairobi
This morning we travel the final 180kms north to the capital city, Nairobi, arriving in the morning. On arrival in Nairobi, the truck will proceed to the Boulevard Hotel to allow passengers to disembark there, and will then drive to our campsite to finish the trip. (B)

Optional Excursions:
Night Game Drive in Kruger National Park US$45
Walking with Lions US$45
Victoria Falls National Park US$20
Zambezi Sunset Dinner Cruise US$40
Zanzibar Accommodation US$15p/p
Serengeti/Ngorongoro Crater option (3 day) US$380
Ngorongoro Crater option (1 day) US$200
(Prices subject to change)

Please note: This itinerary should be used as a guide only and may vary from day to day depending on road conditions, weather, political situations, and group decisions. Due to new tourism laws in some of the countries we operate in there may be a truck and crew change during the trip. All prices & Local Payments are subject to change without prior notice.

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