46 DAY NORTHERN TREK
JOHANNESBURG to NAIROBI - This trip starts in Johannesburg
and travels north through South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia,
Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda 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: R16890 + Local Payment: US$930
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)
DAY 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 9: 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: Matobo National Park 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)
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!
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 vast sisal plantations to Arusha. On the way, we pass The Pare and Usambara Mountain ranges before driving through the town of Moshi. Moshi is the base for Mount Kilimanjaro climbing expeditions and weather permitting; we may even catch a glimpse of this magical mountain’s snowy summit - a photo opportunity not to be missed! Tonight we stay in a lovely campsite in Meserani on the outskirts of Arusha, before heading out on our Optional Excursions to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. (B,L,D)
DAYS 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 days are spent at leisure enjoying the Meserani reptile park, Masai Cultural Museum and the surrounding villages and craft markets. Alternatively the town of Arusha is close by to explore.
The Optional Ngorongoro/Serengeti excursion takes us via the Masai town of Mtu Wa Mbu (Mosquito River) that lies adjacent to the Lake Manyara National Park and up the Rift Valley Escarpment to the higher lying village of Karatu. Karatu offers magnificent views over the surrounding hills and has many well established wheat farms that add to the picturesque panoramas. We spend the evening at a pleasant campsite in Karatu. The following morning we depart early for the Ngorongoro Conservation area and head into the wildlife rich Ngorongoro Crater. This World Heritage Site boasts some of the best game viewing in Africa – including the elusive Black Rhino. Those on the 1 night option will transfer back to Meserani after the game drive.
After our game drive in the Crater, we head down the Crater rim and past the ‘Cradle of Mankind’ on our way to the Serengeti National Park. We cross the vast plains as we game drive through the southern and central areas in the park. Tonight we camp in the bushveld surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness. In the morning, we head off for another game drive and explore the landscape in search of the resident game. With some luck, we may see some of Africa’s ‘Big 5’!
After our morning drive, we head back across the plains and the lush Crater rim to our truck at Arusha, where we spend the evening musing over our thrilling wildlife experience. (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
overnight. (B)
DAY 33: Nairobi to Masai Mara game Reserve
We will depart from the Boulevard Hotel and leave the hustle
and bustle of Nairobi and climb the escarpment to our first
viewpoint stop over looking the Great African Rift Valley.
Descending into the Rift valley we enter Masai land, and these
habitual pastoralists are seen quite regularly on the side
of the road as they tend their  cattle.
We will arrive at our campsite – Acacia Camp - early
evening in time to enjoy sunset on the Masai Mara. (L, D)
DAY 34: Masai Mara
Game drives through the Mara find us looking for the infamous
big 5 as well as giving us the opportunity to see this ‘
garden of Eden’ in a state nature intended it to be,
huge plains, rolling hills and an abundance of game matched
no where else on earth. Elephant, lion, cheetah, giraffe,
zebra, waterbuck just to name a few of the animal that inhabit
this wonderland. Sitting around a campfire and watching the
sunset is the perfect way to finish a day’s game viewing
in the Mara. (B, L, D)
DAY 35: Masai Mara to Kisumu
Leaving the Masai Mara early in the morning, we pass through the scenic tea plantations of Kericho before descending the Rift Valley Plateau, on our way to Kisumu - Kenya’s harbour town on the banks of Africa’s largest lake, Lake Victoria. We replenish our supplies and overnight here.. (B, L, D)
DAY 36: Kisumu to Kampala (Uganda)
Today, we cross the border into Uganda where we overnight it the capital city, Kampala. Uganda is a small country of striking physical beauty. Its landscapes vary from the fertile green areas around the northern shores of Lake Victoria to the snow capped Ruwenzori Mountains in the west and the semi-desert region in the north. The political instability that has haunted Uganda in the past has actually had the positive effect of leaving the country free of the over commercialism so common in other parts of Africa. The current administration under President Museveni has devoted considerable effort and funds to return Uganda to its former status as one of Africa's most prosperous and, from a tourist’s point of view, one of the most appealing and interesting countries to visit. (B, L, D)
DAYS 37 & 38: Kampala to Kisoro
After an early morning departure from Kampala we drive west into the depths of Uganda to our base in Kisoro.
Kisoro is the base from which the optional Gorilla trek takes place. Dependant on where trekking permits are available, we trek in the Magahinga or Bwindi National Parks in Uganda, the Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, or the Ruhengeri National Park in Rwanda. The prices of trekking permits fluctuate and may change without prior notice – currently they are priced between US$375 and US$500 depending on where we trek. There is a local transport fee of US$20 to US$25 per person. For trekking in the DRC or Rwanda, we will also have to purchase an additional visa to enter either country, as well as renewing our Ugandan visa upon re-entry. Please budget accordingly.
Trekking Procedures: The mountain gorilla (Gorilla Gorilla Berengei), of which there are still only about 700 remaining, are one of our closest living relatives. A visit to these gentle giants in their natural environment is a unique and wonderful experience - one you’ll never forget. The park rangers monitor the gorillas on a daily basis and have a fairly good idea of where they are. However, they are free roaming animals, and their sighting can not be guaranteed. In the unlikely event of these creatures managing to completely elude us, the authorities usually allow us a second opportunity to trek them. However, this is purely at their discretion and subject to the availability of permits, and they will not confirm this in writing. We are a major supplier of gorilla trekkers to each park and as such have a high success rate of procuring gorilla permits and then of actually seeing these beautiful animals. As the gorillas share much of our DNA, anyone with even the slightest cold or transferable illness will not be permitted to trek. Trekking is also only open to people over 16 years old. We depart from our camp in the early morning and after border formalities are transferred to a ranger’s station where the trek commences. Your rangers will lead you through the cultivated lands and then into the dense rain forest and on to a gorilla family. Trekking can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 8 hours and it can be quite strenuous, so a reasonable level of fitness is required. To ensure the gorillas do not get too used to the presence of humans and because they share many of our genes (and therefore able to catch our diseases), the maximum time permitted to spend with them is 1 hour. You will have plenty of time to watch their activity and to take photographs. The rangers will be able to provide you with a background to the family you are visiting. Once your hour is up, you trek back out of the rain forest to your meeting point.
You needn’t feel like you’re exploiting these animals. The ever-growing number of tourists trekking them each day play a vital role in their survival. For years they have been ruthlessly hunted for their hands and heads, which have been sold as ashtrays and lampshades! In addition, large numbers have been killed whilst trying to stop poachers stealing the babies for sale to zoos, where they have never lived long. 100% of the gorilla permit cost is used to by the parks authorities to finance patrols that are instrumental in protecting the gorillas from poachers and their lethal snares and on promoting these wonderful animals.
DAY 39: Kisoro to Lake Bunyoni
A short drive through arguably some of the most picturesque
scenery in Africa brings us to lake Bunyoni. Lake Bunyoni
is the deepest crater lake in Africa and is home to a large
number of bird and fish species as well as otters. (B, L,
D)
DAY 40: Lake Bunyoni
Today we have the whole day at leisure to enjoy the beauty
of Lake Bunyoni. There is the option to swim, visit the local
villages or just sit back, relax and enjoy the tranquil surrounds.
A well deserved rest day! (B, L, D)
DAY 41: Lake Bunyoni to Kampala
After enjoying the peaceful surrounds of Lake Bunyoni we drive
to Kampala for another overnight stay, and perhaps the chance
to sample the nightlife. Today we will cross the equator for
the second time and there will be ample opportunity for photos
at the Equator crossing. (B, L, D)
 DAY
42: Kampala to Jinja
Today we have the option to either white water raft the Nile
or visit Ngamba Chimpanzee Sanctuary. For the adventurous,
you will be collected from Kampala and transferred to Jinja
where you will experience some of the best white water rafting
in Africa. For the less adventurous, you will have the morning
at leisure or the option to take a full day excursion to visit
Ngamba Chimp Sanctuary before our departure to Jinja.
Our overnight camp is right on the edge of the Nile River
where there is an abundance of resident bird life & some
truly amazing photo opportunities from right outside your
tent! (B, L, D)
DAY 43: Jinja to Nakuru
Today will be a full day driving back towards Kenya, we will
cross the border before lunch and stop for supplies en route.
Tonight we will overnight again in Nakuru. (B,L,D)
DAY 44: Lake Nakuru National Park
Today we move onto Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for the
thousands of flamingo that inhabits the Lake's edge. The numbers
vary depending on the level of the lake, and are more numerous
when the water level is low. The Park has also been established
as a sanctuary for black and white rhino, which are frequently
seen in the Park, along with buffalo, giraffe, waterbuck,
various antelope, leopard and the occasional hippo. After
entering the park in the morning we will spend the rest of
the day game driving. (B,L,D)
DAY 45: Lake Nakuru National Park to Lake Naivasha
Moving further east, we drive to Lake Naivasha where we make
camp in peaceful surroundings beside the lake. The highest
of the Rift Valley lakes, Naivasha lies at about 1880m again
the lake is home to a multitude of bird life, pride of place
must go to the African Fish Eagle. The afternoon is spent
at leisure here and you have the opportunity (time permitting)
to enjoy some optional excursions, such as a boat ride to
the Crescent Island Game Sanctuary, Hell's Gate National Park
or Elsamere, the retirement home of Joy Adamson ("Born
Free"). (B,L,D)
DAY 46: Lake Naivasha to Nairobi
After breakfast, we leave Naivasha and return to Nairobi,
arriving in the early afternoon. The truck will stop at the
Boulevard Hotel for those staying there, and then continue
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
Zanzibar Accommodation US$20p/p
Zambezi Sunset Dinner Cruise US$40
Serengeti/Ngorongoro Crater option (3 day) US$380
Ngorongoro Crater option (1 day) US$200
White Water Rafting, River Nile US$95
Gorilla trek US$375 – US$500
(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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