Johannesburg to Nairobi Safari

Departing from Johannesburg our first safari destination on this Johannesburg to Nairobi Safari is South Africa's premier Reserve, the Kruger National Park.

From Kruger Park we head north into Zimbabwe where we visit the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, Antelope Park and Matobo National Park and the mighty Victoria Falls among other highlights.

We then explore game-rich Chobe Park in Botswana, spending a night camping in the wild, before crossing truly African Zambia. Travel to Lake Malawi where we relax for a few days on the white sand beaches of this fresh water lake, home to Africa's friendliest people.

Next the budget Johannesburg to Nairobi Safari travels into Tanzania where we visit Zanzibar the "Spice Island" with its tropcial beaches and rich Arabic-African culture.

From Zanzibar its back to the Tanzanian mainland and on to Arusha, gateway to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro National Parks, home to Africa's " Big 5".

Our unforgettable African Camping Safari ends in Nairobi, Kenya.

DAY 1: Johannesburg to Kruger National Park – South Africa (L / D)

This Johannesburg to Nairobi 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.

The first overnight camp is located on the border of Kruger National Park, close to the Numbi Gate of Kruger.

Tonight we relax around the campfire at camp, getting a good night's rest before our early morning game drive in Kruger. Our African wildlife experience begins at the safari camp, which is home to hippo, giraffe, zebra and impala, among others.

DAY 2: Kruger National Park – South Africa (B / L / D)

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. You have the option of upgrading to an open safari vehicle at extra cost.

Tonight you can embark on a night game drive in Kruger National Park, exploring the game-rich bush after dark in search of the nocturnal wildlife roaming this African game park.

DAY 3: Kruger National Park to Polokwane – South Africa (B / L / D)

We say goodbye to Kruger Park and leave the Lowveld of South Africa behind, heading to Polokwane.

Our drive takes us along one of South Africa's most scenic areas, the Panorama Route, via the impressive Blyde River Canyon and God’s Window.

We stop to admire the panoramic vistas at some of the viewpoints along the Blyde River Canyon, taking advantage of the superb photo opportunities.

Our next stop is Polokwane, capital of the Limpopo Province, and the largest metropolitan hub in the northern part of the country.

The economic centre of Polokwane serves as a gateway stop over on safaris through Southern Africa. The city is located close to Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Swaziland, and is also not far from Kruger National Park and Magoebaskloof.

The overnight camp is situated just outside Polokwane, and on arrival we set up our tents on the green lawns, before enjoying a swim in the refreshing swimming pool.

DAY 4: Polokwane to Musina – South Africa (B / L / D)

Travelling north today we make our way towards Zimbabwe, stopping briefly to top up on supplies. We have a long, relaxing drive through changing landscapes ahead of us today.

At the end of the day we camp at a hot water spring resort set among the rolling hills near Musina, one of the hottest towns in South Africa. We set up camp at the resort, known for its natural hot water springs, before enjoying the pools, walking trails and various activities at the resort.

Established when the copper mining industry flourished Musina became a ghost town after the mines shut down. With the resurgence of mining activities the small town made a come back and is today an interesting place with a rich history.

DAY 5: Musina to Masvingo – Zimbabwe (B / L / D)

We cross into Zimbabwe today, entering this beautiful land to explore its rich culture, spirit and tradition.

The town of Masvingo is our first stop in Zimbabwe, located on the outskirts of the Great Zimbabwe Ruins. Built by an ancient civilization this historic site was once the greatest medieval city in sub-Saharan Africa. The country is named after  this ancient city with Zimbabwe meaning "great stone houses" in Shona. 

The origins of the Zimbabwe Ruins is a much debated subject, but the city was undeniably built by a highly skilled civilisation. The most notable artefacts found at the ruins are the eight soapstone statues of stone birds.

We get to wander around these intriguing ruins, before setting up our overnight camp in the foot hills near Masvingo.

DAY 6: Masvingo to Gweru – Zimbabwe (B / L / D)

The Johannesburg to Nairobi Safari departs from Masvingo, travelling further north to Gweru, in the Zimbabwe Midlands. 

Our next safari destination in Zimbabwe is the unique Antelope Park. Rumour has it that you have not truly 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)! Take advantage of the special chance to walk with lions, ride or swim with elephants, and go game viewing on horseback or from the back of a safari vehicle.

DAY 7: Gweru – Zimbabwe (B / L / D)

Enjoy close encounters with Africa’s wildlife today and feel the thrill of walking with lions, or riding on elephant back at Antelope Park.

In the evening you can venture into the bushes on a night game drive in Antelope Park! A remarkable wildlife destination - Antelope Park offers an unforgettable African safari experience!

DAYS 8: Gweru to Bulawayo – Zimbabwe (B / L / D)

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.

DAY 9: Bulawayo & Matobo Hills National Park – Zimbabwe (B / L / D)

We head towards the Matobo Hills to view game, Bushman rock paintings, rock formations and the dramatic scenery in this Zimbabwean National Park. The Matobo Hills area is historically and culturally significant, as well as being an important wildlife reserve.

Matobo National Park is one of the last strongholds of black and white rhino, home to a highly successful Black and White Rhino breeding program. In addition to large numbers of rhinos, Matobo Park is home to various antelope species, an abundance of birds, a high diversity of plant species, baboon and lizards. The Matobo Hills Park is also renowned for its high concentration of leopard and black eagle.

This dramatic landscape is dotted with imposing granite hills, where hundreds of san rock paintings provide evidence of the ancient San inhabitants of this area.

An important sacred site of the Ndebele tribe, a rain shrine to the god of their ancestors, is also found tucked away in the Matobo Hills.

Cecil John Rhodes (after whom Rhodesia was named) is buried at the top of one of the sacred hills of Matobos, at his request - although there is some controversy over whether he will stay! We spend the day exploring this unique geological, ecological and historic area. In the afternoon we visit the grave of Cecil Rhodes, a politically contentious place, as imperialist Rhodes is buried on sacred Nebele grounds.

DAY 10: Bulawayo to Victoria Falls – Zimbabwe (B / L)

Today we travel to the Adventure Capital of Africa - Victoria Falls.

A short adventure activities brief is followed by a free afternoon for you to view the mighty Victoria Falls, lounge at the camp pool or participate in adventure activities and explore the sights of Vic Falls town!

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!

Optional Excursions include day trips into the Zambezi or Hwange National Parks; elephant back safaris and horseback safaris. Other optional outings include a visit to the crocodile ranch; boat cruises and golf at The Elephant Hills Resort nearby.  Serious adventure seekers can bungee jump over the roaring waters from the Victoria Falls Bridge running between Zimbabwe and Zambia.

DAY 11 & 12: Victoria Falls – Zimbabwe (B x 2)

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 affordable African Safari.

Adrenalin seekers can also brave an abseil down the Batoka Gorge. Scenic flights over the Falls in micro light and ultra light or fixed wing aircraft or helicopters provide an eagle view of this World Heritage Site year-round. The Zambezi offers world-class white water rafting with a mix of Grade 5 rapids and the quiet stretches. The calm waters known as "floats" give you time to gaze at the surrounding cliffs and spot some wildlife on the banks of the Zambezi River.

DAY 13: Victoria Falls to Chobe National Park – Botswana (B / L / D)

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 in the afternoon. From the river we look out for the abundant wildlife and birds of Chobe National Park and enjoy a spectacular African sunset over the bush.

DAY 14: Chobe National Park to Livingstone – Zambia (Brunch / D)

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!

DAY 15: From Livingstone to Lusaka – Zambia (Breakfast / Lunch/ Dinner)

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!

DAY 16: Lusaka to Chipata – Zambia (Breakfast / Lunch/ Dinner)

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.

DAYS 17 - 20: From Chipata to Lake Malawi Beaches – Malawi (Breakfast / Lunch/ Dinner)

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.

DAY 21: Lake Malawi to Iringa – Tanzania (Breakfast / Lunch/ Dinner)

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.

DAY 22: Iringa to Dar es Salaam – Tanzania (Breakfast / Lunch/ Dinner)

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.

DAY 23: Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar Archipelago (Breakfast)

On day 23 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.

DAYS 24 & 25: Zanzibar Island

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.

DAY 26: Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam – Tanzania (Dinner)

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.

DAY 27: Dar es Salaam to Arusha – Tanzania (Breakfast / Lunch/ Dinner)

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.

DAYS 28 - 30: Ngorongoro Crater & Serengeti Trip (Breakfast / Lunch/ Dinner)

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 Johannesburg to Nairobi 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.

DAY 31: Arusha to Nairobi – Kenya (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

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.

DAY 32: Nairobi – Kenya (Breakfast)

On the last day of this exhilarating Johannesburg to Nairobi Safari we share breakfast in Nairobi. After breakfast we say goodbye 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 and Zimbabwe, Botswana, Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania and ending in Nairobi, Kenya.

The budget camping safari departs from Johannesburg in South Africa early on Wednesday 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.