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Cape Town

42 Day Africa Overland Tour: Cape Town to Nairobi (Lodge…

Tour Length42 days
Priced from pps $8573 R163450 £6797 7950 A$13212 C$11656 NZ$14380 Full pricing info
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Summary of this Lodge Africa Overland Tour

  • Max. Group Size 20 Travellers
  • Departs from Cape Town, South Africa
  • Ends at Nairobi, Kenya
  • Accommodation Bungalow or Chalet / Lodge / Safari Lodge / Luxury Camping / Hotel
  • Transport Large Overland Vehicle / Game Viewing Vehicle / Boat / Ferry
  • Wildlife Big 5, Elephant, Exceptional Birding, Leopards, Lions, Rhino & More
  •  See Departure Dates

Quick Itinerary Overview

The diverse Accommodated Cape Town to Nairobi Safari Highlights include:

  • South Africa: Cape Town, Cederberg, Namaqualand & Gariep (Orange) River 
  • Namibia: Fish River Canyon, Namib Desert & Sossusvlei in Namib-Naukluft Park
  • Namibia: Swakopmund, Etosha National Park, Cape Cross Seal Colony & Petrified Forest
  • Botswana: Maun,Okavango Delta, Moremi & Chobe Park, Makgadigadi Pans
  • Zimbabwe: Victoria Falls
  • Zambia: Zambezi/Kafue River & South Luangwa National Park
  • Malawi: Central and Northern Lake Malawi Villages & Beaches 
  • Tanzania: Mikumi Park, Zanzibar Island, Northern Safari Circuit & Ngorongoro Crater

This accommodated budget safari offers a fantastic way to take in as many of Africa's best destinations as possible, over several exhilarating and memorable weeks. An epic African Safari to many of Africa's top safari destinations!

Responsible Travel Note

During this trip you are likely to come across activities that encourage tourists to participate in lion, elephant or other wildlife interaction. This includes walking with lions, riding elephants and any other tourist operation putting travellers in close contact with animals that would normally live wild and separate from human contact.

We absolutely do not encourage or endorse this type of wildlife interaction operation. For more information on why this is not good for Africa's wild animals, please see our detailed blog post on the subject.

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Itinerary for this Tour

Day 1: Cape Town to Citrusdal & Cederberg Mountains – South Africa

This affordable Africa Overland Tour departs from the beautiful city of Cape Town in South Africa. Leaving the Mother City (as Cape Town is fondly called), we pause to take photos and enjoy the iconic panoramic views of the city and Table Mountain from across the bay.

From Cape Town we drive north to the picturesque Cederberg Mountain of the Western Cape, passing quaint farmstalls en route. The Cederberg Mountains are loved by locals for the hiking trails and the endemic rooibos plants which grow on the mountain slopes, used to make a hugely popular, healthy tea known as red bush.

Arriving in the Cederberg we head to our first overnight lodge in the scenic Olifants River Valley, where we relax and enjoy a traditional dinner and a briefing on the adventure ahead.

  • Included Highlight: Traditional Dinner
  • Meals: Lunch & Dinner

Day 2: Namaqualand & Orange (Gariep) River – Namibia

Day 2 of our overland adventure we travel north. Mountains give way to arid flats as we make our way through the Namaqualand region, a semi-desert famous for its colorful carpets of indigenous wildflowers which bloom in springtime (August & September). Driving through this sparsely populated Northern Cape region we make a stop in the remote town of Springbok in South Africa for last-minute supplies our way to the Gariep River, formerly known as the Orange River, which forms the border with Namibia. We cross into Namibia and make our way back to the Namibia riverbank of the Gariep (Orange) River where we will overnight.

The second night of our Africa Overland Tour is spent getting to know one another over a hearty meal. We sleep in comfortable, en-suite chalets that overlook the river. Our accommodation features a pool, internet, and a bar.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Orange (Gariep) River to Ais-Ais – Namibia

This morning you have the option to experience South Africa's longest river by canoe. Alternatively, you can spend some time relaxing at the riverside camp. Canoeing along the Orange (Gariep) River is the ideal way to take in the rugged scenery and spot birds and animals along the river.

After lunch, we travel north toward the mighty Fish River Canyon, one of the largest canyons in the world. We make our way to the Ai-Ais Hot Springs and our overnight accommodation located close to the Fish River Canyon. At our resort in Ai-Ais, you can enjoy the soothing waters of the hot springs and cool off with a swim in the pool, then relax at the bar. We stay in twin share rooms with en-suite bathrooms.

  • Included Activities: Ais-Ais Hot Springs
  • Optional Activities: Half-day River Canoe Trip
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4: Fish River Canyon, Quiver Tree Forest & Giants Playground – Namibia

On day four of our Africa Overland Tour from Cape Town to Nairobi, we are up early to visit the Fish River Canyon. We stroll along the rim of this massive canyon admiring the spectacular views across the chasm in the glowing morning light - it reaches a width of 27 kilometers (17 miles) at its widest point. After capturing photos of the incredible canyon and soaking up the dramatic scenery we proceed west to Keetmanshoop town.

This afternoon we visit the Quiver Tree Forest and Giants Playground near Keetmanshoop. The quiver tree forest includes specimens over 200 years old making it an important ecological site. They make a striking silhouette with tall, tapering trunk and a canopy of spiky, succulent leaves. Nearby, the Giants playground is a bizarre landscape strewn with unusual stacks of large dolerite boulders about 160 to 180 million years old that look as if they were placed by giants.

  • Included Activities: Fish River Canyon, Quiver Tree Forest, Giants Playground visit
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Keetmanshoop to the Namib Desert - Namibia

This morning we set off on our long drive north into the ancient Namib Desert of Namibia, best known for the massive sand dunes of the Sossusvlei Desert area, with its iconic landscapes (which we will visit tomorrow).

This is a long day’s drive as we travel to our overnight spot at a desert lodge just outside the Namib-Naukluft National Park. Relax after the long drive with a cool dip in the swimming pool. We stay in comfortable rooms with en-suite bathrooms.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6: Sossusvlei Dunes in Namib-Naukluft National Park – Namibia

Today we visit the Namib-Naukluft National Park, home to Namibia’s most famous desert landscapes. The national park incorporates a large part of the ancient Namib Desert and is home to the rolling expanse of distinctive red-orange sand dunes.

We first visit Dune 45 where you have the chance to climb up the iconic dune for amazing views from the top over the stark desert. Back at the foot of the dune, we enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading on a 4x4 transfer to Sossusvlei and Deadvlei, in the heart of Namib-Naukluft National Park. This area features a crusty pan that offers dramatic scenes of skeletal trees dotted around the pale pan floors, surrounded by orange-hued dunes.

  • Included Activity: Sesriem Canyon, Hike up Dune 45, Transfer to Sossusvlei & Deadvlei
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7: Namib Desert to Swakopmund – Namibia

On Day 7 of our overland tour, we are joined by an expert local guide for a nature walk in the unique desert habitat. Exploring on foot, see how plants and animals have adapted to this harsh climate and hear how the San (Bushmen) have long survived in the arid deserts of Southern Africa.

We are then back on the road, headed for the coast and some refreshing sea breezes. On the way we cross the latitudinal line of the Tropic of Capricorn, pausing to take some photos of the auspicious occasion. Then it’s on to the popular seaside town of Swakopmund, the adventure capital of Namibia.

In the evening we will dine out at a local restaurant. For the next two nights we will stay at a comfortable guesthouse in Swakopmund featuring a bar, laundry services, and internet.

  • Included Activity: Guided desert walk, Tropic of Capricorn, Local Restaurant Dinner
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 8: Swakopmund – Namibia

Day 8 on this Africa Overland Tour is yours to explore the quaint town of Swakopmund as you prefer. Explore the town where German colonial influences can still be seen in the architecture, cuisine, and culture. Stroll along the sea, sip coffee at a sidewalk cafe, visit a market and enjoy sightseeing on foot.

You can also try some of the many adventure activities available in this popular coastal town, including quad biking on the dunes, sand boarding, skydiving, and boat cruises to see dolphins.

  • Optional Activities: Dolphin Cruise, Sky Diving, Sandboarding, Quad Biking, and more
  • Meals: Breakfast

Day 9: Swakopmund to Khorixas – Namibia

Our desert journey turns northward along the coast where hot desert meets the icy Atlantic Ocean. We'll make a pit stop at the picturesque resort town of Wlotskabaken, which has vistas perfect for great photos. From there, we venture to the Lichen Fields, where your guide will provide insights into the fascinating Lichen Colonies which survive in very harsh environments.

Next is the Seal Colony at Cape Cross, a gathering place for over 200,000 Cape Fur Seals. Cape Cross holds historical significance as it was a stop-off point in 1486 for Diego Cao, first European explorer on Namibia's coast, who erected a cross here in tribute to the then Portuguese king. (Please be aware that access to the Cape Cross Colony may occasionally be restricted, preventing us from visiting the seals.)

Leaving the coastline behind, our journey takes us back into the dry lands towards Khorixas where we will overnight.

  • Included Activity: Wlotskabaken, Lichen Fields, Cape Cross Seal Colony
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 10: Khorixas to Etosha National Park – Namibia

On the morning of Day 10, we explore the ancient history of the Khorixas region. The area was inhabited by the Khoi San people for some 6,000 years and they have left behind a wealth of over 2,500 rock art sites – one of the largest concentrations in the world. We visit some of these sites with a knowledgeable local guide. From there continue to the site where prehistoric tree trunks have been immortalized as a Petrified Forest, stone remains of these ancient trees that were washed here by an ancient river.

After this fascinating visit, we continue our journey to Namibia’s premium wildlife destination, Etosha National Park dominated by the vast Etosha Pan, a salt pan so huge it is visible from space. The word Etosha means ‘Great White Place of Dry Water’ in the local Ovambo language. The park is vast and plays host to an impressive selection of animals who graze around the edges of the pan. We will enjoy our first game viewing adventure as we drive through the park.

We overnight in comfortable rooms at the park rest camps for the next three nights.

  • Included Activity: Twyfelfontein Rock Art, Petrified Forest, Afternoon Game Drive
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 11 & 12: Etosha National Park – Namibia

Time for unforgettable game viewing – the next two days are devoted to exploring the creatures who live in Etosha National Park. On our game drives we will explore the wild and rugged bush, stopping at various watering holes in search of the animals that come to drink at these sites. Our game drives are conducted in the safari truck, providing an elevated vantage for spotting animals and birds.

Etosha Park is home to a variety of animals, plants, and birds, including unusual desert adapted species. We will have plenty to see on our game drives in this vast park, inhabited by 144 mammal species such as elephant, giraffe, blue wildebeest, eland, Damara dik-dik, lion, cheetah, leopard, wildcat, hyena, and jackal. As well as hosting 340 bird species, 110 reptile species, 16 amphibian species and even a species of fish.

We stay at two of the three camps inside Etosha Park. They boast floodlit waterholes where wild animals can be viewed at night. They also have a bar, swimming pool, and shop to enjoy between game viewing adventures.

In addition to watching for wildlife at the watering holes, you can embark on an exciting optional night game drive on either day.

  • Included Activities: Etosha game drives in the safari truck
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner x 2

Day 13: Etosha National Park to Divundu – Namibia

Start Day 13 of our South Africa to Kenya Safari with a final game drive in Etosha Park. Exiting the famous national park, we travel northeast. The dry arid landscapes become greener and lusher as we get closer to the mighty Kavango River which flows on Namibia’s northern border with Angola. The river will eventually empty into the middle of the desert is neighbouring Botswana to form the legendary Okavango Delta. We will overnight at a comfortable lodge on the riverbanks.

  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 14: Divundu to Maun - Botswana

Day 14 of our Africa Overland Tour starts with a boat cruise on the Kavango River. We weave through pods of wallowing hippos and the occasional crocodile while keeping watch for the wildlife drawn to the riverbanks.

Back on land, we are back on our overland vehicle and headed to the next country on our tour, Botswana. Once border formalities are complete, we drive through the Okavango Delta backroads headed for the town of Maun which serves as the launchpad for any adventure into the Okavango Delta.

Arriving in Maun, you have the opportunity to take an optional scenic flight over the Okavango Delta (weather and time permitting) for a spectacular aerial perspective of this natural wonder. We overnight at a hotel in Maun and will need to prepare a smaller overnight bag to take on our two-day trip into the Delta in smaller 4x4 safari vehicles tomorrow.

  • Included Activities: Morning Boat Cruise
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15: Maun to Khwai River Conservation Area, Okavango Delta - Botswana

Earlybirds have the option to enjoy an optional scenic flight over the Okavango Delta this morning (weather and time permitting) before we are collected in 4x4 safari vehicles for our journey into the wild Okavango Delta of Botswana. The Kavango River has no outlet to the sea, so it empties into the sands of the Kalahari Desert irrigating some 15,000 square kilometers of land, forming the largest inland delta in the world.

We drive to the Khwai River Conservation Area in the eastern side of the Delta. Settle into your permanent safari tent at the comfortable tented camp where we will spend the next two nights. After lunch we head out to a nearby mokoro station where local guides will paddle us through the delta waterways on these traditional boats. It is a serene introduction to this magical place. You will stop at one of the islands to take a nature walk and your guide will share some insights of life in the Okavango Delta. Enjoy a stunning sunset on the paddle back to base.

  • Included Activities: Sunset Mokoro trip
  • Optional Activity: Scenic Okavango Delta Flight
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 16: Moremi Game Reserve - Botswana

On day 16 of our epic Africa Overland Tour, we are up early for our full day of exploring Moremi Game Reserve in the heart of the Okavango Delta region. The reserve stretches across several thousand square kilometers, featuring stunning floodplains, lagoons, grasslands, forests of acacia trees, savannahs, and dense mopane woodlands which host an incredible variety of plants and animals. The reserve is known for its large herbivore populations, which in turn support predators including lion, leopard, and cheetah. This is sure to be an action-packed game viewing adventure.

  • Included Activity: Full Day Game Drive
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 17: Khwai to Nata - Botswana

Today we leave the Khwai River floodplain behind and have our last drive through the Okavango Delta on our return trip to Maun. Here we are reunited with our overland vehicle and head out into the Botswana desert. We are headed to the Makgadigadi Pans, a string of salt pans that are the remains of an ancient giant lake that once stood here.

We overnight on the palm fringed edge of Nata Pan which receives seasonal water during the rainy season that attracts large numbers of birds. We will take an afternoon drive to explore the pan and see what birdlife we may encounter.

  • Included Activity: Afternoon Pans Drive
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 18: Nata to Kasane & Chobe National Park - Botswana

Day 18 of our Cape Town to Nairobi Safari sees us continue through the Kalahari Desert towards the town of Kasane which sits on the banks of the Chobe River near the meeting point of four countries – Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Namibia.

We will stay at a riverside lodge with a swimming pool, internet, and bar. After lunch and a rest, we head out to explore the Chobe National Park from the river. From the water, we get up close to plenty of wild animals such as hippos, antelopes, buffalos, crocodiles, and elephants. Our boat-based game viewing provides excellent photographic opportunities for capturing the birds and wildlife attracted to the Chobe River.

  • Included Activity: Chobe River Boat Cruise
  • Optional Activity: Chobe Game Drive
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 19: Kasane to Victoria Falls – Zimbabwe

The next border crossing on our Africa Overland Tour takes us into Zimbabwe this morning. Once border formalities are complete, it is a short drive to magnificent Victoria Falls, largest waterfall in the world. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Victoria Falls is one of the most unforgettable natural spectacles in Africa - an absolute must-see!

Today and tomorrow, you are free to spend your time at this magnificent place as you wish. Visit ‘Vic Falls’ up close and experience why it is known as the 'Smoke that Thunders' as translated from the local name, Mosi-oa-Tunya. The power of the waterfall creates a mist that is visible from many miles away. In addition to visiting the spectacular Victoria Falls, there are many thrilling adventure activities (optional extra) on offer. Alternatively, relax at our lodge located close to the falls.

  • Optional Activities: Victoria Falls National Park Entry Fees, Boat Cruise, Scenic flight, and more
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 20: Victoria Falls Village to Livingstone – Zambia

Most people spend the day participating in a few of the exciting adventure activities available at Victoria Falls. This part of the Zambezi River has some of the best white-water rapids in the world, making a white-water rafting trip an unforgettable experience. Other optional adventures include helicopter and microlight flights over the Falls for spectacular views, zip-line, bungee jump, bridge swing, boat trips to Livingstone Island, and game viewing in the national parks nearby.

You can also walk around historic Victoria Falls town to take in the sights and visit the local markets, or rest at the lodge and take a dip in the pool. We overnight in Livingstone town, located on the Zambia side of Victoria Falls. A transfer to Livingstone is included. Depending on your chosen activities for the day, you can choose to take either a morning or afternoon transfer.

  • Included Activities: Transfer to Livingstone
  • Optional Activities: Morning Tram & Bridge Tour, Zambezi Sunset Cruise, Bungee Jump, Helicopter Flights, White Water Rafting
  • Meals: Breakfast

Day 21 & 22: Livingstone to Chirundu – Zambia

On Day 21 of this epic Cape Town to Nairobi Overland Tour, we say goodbye to the natural wonder of Victoria Falls, making our way into Zambia. We pass bustling markets, small villages, and rural landscapes with increasingly sub-tropical vegetation. For the next two nights we will stay at a lodge situated on the banks of the Kafue River, one of the three main tributaries of the Zambezi River and the largest river lying entirely within Zambia.

Day 22 is free to relax by the river or take one of the optional activities available in the area. Fishing for the fierce Tiger Fish is a popular excursion for keen fishermen or book a full day safari in the Lower Zambezi National Park. Take a safari boat cruise or an excursion to a nearby baobab forest and bat cave.

  • Optional Activities: Fishing, Lower Zambezi National Park Game Drive, River Safari, Baobab & Bat Cave excursion, and more
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner x2

Day 23: Chirundu to Petauke – Zambia

Today our Africa Overland Tour continues east along the Great East Road. We travel through Zambia’s capital city, Lusaka and onwards to the town of Petauke, the main hub for safaris to renowned South Luangwa National Park where we will overnight in a comfortable lodge.

This long drive takes us east through lush landscapes, crossing the Luangwa River as we head to South Luangwa. We make a stop to visit the lively Luangwa Market, trying some of the unusual fruits grown in the area and browsing the traditional Zambian crafts and curios.

  • Included Activity: Market visit
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 24 & 25: South Luangwa National Park – Zambia

Today we head to the South Luangwa National Park, Zambia’s premier safari destination known for its outstanding game viewing. Along the way, we stop at a local textile initiative called the Mulberry Mongoose that produces beautiful clothes and jewellery from local materials – from cotton grown in the area to wire from poacher snares retrieved by local conservationists.

South Luangwa National Park is situated in Zambia's eastern region, in the tail end of Africa's Great Rift Valley, spanning an area of about 9,050 square kilometers of the Luangwa River valley. We spend the next two nights of our Africa Overland Tour staying in permanent tents with en-suite bathrooms at a tented camp right on the banks of the Luangwa River. Keep an eye out for hippos and other wild animals often spotted from the camp bar. We end the day with sundowners and a beautiful sunset over the river.

In the morning you can take an optional game drive in South Luangwa. Alternatively, you have the option of joining a walking safari in the dry season (April to December). South Luangwa pioneered the African walking safari, for which it is now famous.

Late afternoon, we enjoy a sunset game drive in the untamed South Luangwa National Park. South Luangwa is home to an abundance of wildlife, including buffalos, zebras, leopards, elephants, hippos, giraffes, and crocodiles. We stop for sundowners in the bush, before continuing our game drive into the night when we hope to spot the elusive nocturnal animals of South Luangwa.

  • Included Activity: Mulberry Mongoose visit, Sunset Game Drive
  • Optional Activities: Walking Safari in South Luangwa National Park, Morning Game Drive
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner x2

Day 26: South Luangwa to Central Lake Malawi – Malawi

Next, our Africa Overland Tour crosses into Malawi, known as 'the Warm Heart of Africa'. Entering Malawi, we make a detour to Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, oldest wildlife reserve in Malawi. We take a game drive through the dense woodland and hilly terrain which is home to diverse wildlife including elephants, buffalo, and various plains game

We then travel on to the central zone of Lake Malawi, the third largest and second deepest lake in the Africa Rift Valley. We head for the historical town of Ngala Beach on the shores of the incredibly scenic Lake Malawi.

Our lodge for the next two nights is located right next to Lake Malawi, which enjoys a pleasant climate for swimming year-round. If time allows you can go snorkeling straight away or take a swim and a stroll on the sandy beach at sunset.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 27: Central Lake Malawi – Malawi

There are no planned activities for Day 27 of your overland tour, leaving you free to relax on the sandy shores of Lake Malawi, explore the area and participate in optional activities.

Popular optional activities include paddle skiing, horse riding and snorkelling. The clear warm waters of this vast African Lake make it an ideal destination for snorkelling to spot the brightly coloured cichlid fish found here. Otherwise, you can embark on an optional motorboat trip, do some bird watching, take a guided village tour or visit the nearby forest reserve. You can also take a walk along the lake, passing fishing villages along the way for some laid-back exploration. Lake Malawi is known for its friendly locals and fresh fish, in addition to the excellent water activities at this scenic lake.

  • Optional Activities: Snorkelling, horse riding, kayaking, paddle skiing, and more.
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 28: Northern Lake Malawi - Malawi

Day 28 of our Africa Overland Tour takes us a little further north along the shores of Lake Malawi to our next lodge. En-route your guide takes you to visit a local village where you can see how rural Malawians live and meet some of these friendly African people. After experiencing a bit of Malawian culture, we proceed north.

By late afternoon we arrive at the lakeside lodge on the northern banks of Lake Malawi where you can recline in a hammock and watch the sun go down over the lake with a cold drink in hand.

  • Included Activities: Village Tour with your guide
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 29: Lake Malawi to Mbeya Region - Tanzania

This morning we say goodbye to lovely Lake Malawi and travel north into our next African country on this Africa Overland Tour, Tanzania. We cross into Southern Tanzania and into the region of the scenic Mbeya Mountain range. The next overnight stay on our Africa Overland Tour is at a scenic lodge set on a coffee plantation.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 30: Mbeya to Iringa – Tanzania

Kick-start the day with some freshly brewed local coffee. This morning we visit a coffee plantation to sample these delicious beans and see how the local coffee is grown and harvested.

Then our Cape Town to Nairobi Safari heads over some spectacular mountain passes, traveling through rolling tea plantations in the Tanzanian Highlands before arriving at our lodge outside the town of Iringa.

  • Included Activities: Coffee Plantation Visit
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 31: Iringa to Mikumi National Park – Tanzania

From Iringa, our Africa Overland Tour takes us north to the Mikumi National Park. Part of the larger Selous Game Reserve ecosystem, Mikumi Park is home to lion, zebra, wildebeest, impala, buffalo, and elephant, among other animals, and over 400 species of birds.

Enjoy an optional afternoon game drive in Mikumi Park, where the open Mkata Floodplains host an abundance of wild animals.

  • Optional Activity: Afternoon Game Drive in Mikumi National Park
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 32: Mikumi to Dar es Salaam - Tanzania

Our epic African adventure journeys out of the cool highland region of Tanzania, east towards the balmy Indian Ocean coastline.

We travel to the coastal city of Dar es Salaam, economic hub of Tanzania, where we will overnight at a centrally located hotel. The rest of the day is yours to explore this vibrant city and sample some of its restaurants and attractions.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 33: Dar es Salaam to Stone Town (Zanzibar Island) - Tanzania

We make an early start today to catch the ferry to exotic Zanzibar Island. Our first night in Zanzibar will be spent at a hotel in Stone Town, one of the oldest living Swahili cities in East Africa. From the moment you step onto the island, you're greeted with a blend of cultures, a rich history, and a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets waiting to be explored. Stone Town was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001 for its unique blend of Arab, Persian, Indian, and European architectural styles.

The rest of the day is yours to explore the narrow, winding streets and whirlwind of sights, sounds, and smells. Admire the beautifully carved wooden doors which are a feature of Zanzibari buildings. Not to be missed is the Forodhani Gardens which transform into a bustling street food market after dark, with makeshift tables, propane tanks, and grills setting the stage for a feast of local flavors, from fresh seafood to local delicacies such as Zanzibari pizza

  • Included Activity: Zanzibar ferry
  • Meals: Breakfast

Day 34 & 35: Stone Town to Zanzibar Island Beach Resort - Tanzania

Day 34 of our Cape Town to Nairobi Safari begins with a walking tour of Stone Town where your guide points out significant landmarks and you even get to see the birthplace of one of Zanzibar’s most famous sons, Freddy Mercury of the band Queen.

We then head out of town, through lush landscapes, headed for the beach resort which will be our base for the next two nights. We make a stop at a village to do a spice tour, visiting a local plantation to learn more about the spices and their production that this ‘spice island’ has practiced for aeons. You will have the opportunity to purchase fresh spices for yourself.

We continue to our destination for the next two days, a beautiful beachfront resort. This is your time to soak up the sun or try some of the incredible excursions on offer. There are various watersports and ocean activities available, from snorkeling and fishing to scuba diving and sailing on a traditional wooden dhouw. Explore the island of Zanzibar on guided trips or rent a scooter and set off on your own. Zanzibar is renowned as an idyllic tropical beach destination, so unwind in paradise and go swimming in the clear, Indian Ocean waters.

  • Included Activity: Stone Town Walking Tour, Spice Tour
  • Optional Activities: Dhow Sailing Trips, Jozani Forest, Turtle Sanctuary, Scuba Diving, Snorkelling, Fishing, and more
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (x2)

Day 36: Zanzibar to Bagamoyo (via Dar es Salaam) – Tanzania

This morning we catch the ferry back to Dar es Salaam where our safari truck awaits us. Hopping back onto our overland truck we travel to Bagamoyo for an overnight stay.

Founded in the late 1700s, Bagamoyo is known for its construction of the traditional wooden dhow sailing boats which are still built today. This vibrant town offers insight into the history of Tanzania, particularly the 19th century when it was a major trading post. The history of Bagamoyo includes interesting German colonial, Swahili, Arabic and Christian missionary influences.

The remainder of the afternoon is free for you to swim in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, walk along the beach, and enjoy the sea views as the sun sets.

  • Included Activity: Zanzibar return ferry
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 37: Arusha – Tanzania

Today we take a scenic drive to Arusha, the gateway to the Northern Safari Circuit in Tanzania. The most famous game parks on the Northern Safari Circuit are Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area - two of Africa's best wildlife destinations.

We overnight in Arusha, which is located at the base of Mount Meru, Africa's fifth-highest peak, and is the launchpad for travellers to Mount Kilimanjaro and the Northern Safari Circuit. From here we will embark on a three-night Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater Trip to experience these unforgettable Tanzania safari destinations.

This evening our local guide briefs us on our upcoming Ngorongoro & Serengeti Safari trip and there is time to pack a smaller bag for your upcoming wildlife adventure.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 38: Arusha to Karatu - Tanzania

Leaving Arusha today we drive through the Great Rift Valley Ngorongoro Highlands area to the town of Karatu. This busy small town lies between Lake Manyara and the famous Ngorongoro Crater serving as our base for exploring the Northern Safari Circuit of Tanzania.

En-route we will stop in the village of Mto wa Mbu known for its rich agricultural produce and a melting pot of diverse cultural groups. We visit the Mto wa Mbu Market for a taste of village life and can sample the distinctive red bananas that grow in these parts.

  • Included Activity: Mto wa Mbu Market visit
  • Optional Activities: Local Brewery Tour, Karatu Iraqw Market, local coffee plantation tour
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 39: Ngorongoro Crater & Serengeti Seronera – Tanzania

Rise and shine early this morning for an action-packed day in Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit. You will be collected in 4x4 safari vehicles and descend into the wildlife rich Ngorongoro Crater where most of your day is spent exploring. The Ngorongoro Crater is an ancient volcano caldera which forms a natural amphitheatre that encloses some of the densest animal populations in Africa promising superb wildlife viewing. Members of most of Africa's large mammal species are found roaming freely in the crater, it is home to all the Big 5 - lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino - alongside vast herds of wildebeest, zebra, eland, and other antelopes. You may also see a spotted hyena, or even cheetah or wild dogs.

After a memorable day of game viewing in the Ngorongoro Crater, we ascend out of the crater and drive on to the Serengeti National Park close by. Entering the legendary Serengeti Park we make our way to the central region of Serengeti National Park, called Seronera. Seronera is famous for its outstanding predator sightings, earning it the title of the 'Big cat capital of Africa'. Keep your eyes open for wildlife on our game drive en route to Seronera where we spend the next two nights in a comfortable tented camp.

  • Included Activity: Full day 4x4 Safari in Ngorongoro Crater, Game Drive to Seronera in Serengeti Park
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 40: Serengeti National Park – Tanzania

Day 40 of our Africa Overland Tour is set aside for exploring Serengeti National Park. The Serengeti is a vast, undulating plain some 30,000 square kilometers. These flat wide grasslands support huge numbers of grazing herds of wildebeest and other herbivores. It is considered one of Africa’s top safari destinations. Sit back and soak up the iconic African safari landscapes as our game drive criss-crosses the terrain in search of superb wildlife sightings.

We return to our tented camp in the Seronera for a hearty dinner after an exciting day.

  • Included Activity: Serengeti Safari
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 41: Serengeti to Arusha – Tanzania

On day 41 we return to Arusha, enjoying beautiful panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley en route. This evening we spend the last evening of our overland tour relaxing at the comfortable lodge in Arusha and recount our incredible adventures on this Cape Town to Nairobi Safari.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 42: Arusha to Nairobi – Kenya

On the final day of our epic Africa Overland Tour, we travel north into Kenya. Keep an eye out for Mount Kilimanjaro which is visible in the distance on a clear day. Crossing the border into Kenya, the last country on our journey, we drive to Nairobi.

This comprehensive Cape Town to Nairobi Overland Tour comes to a close in Kenya's capital city today.

Some safari groups choose to eat out at one of Nairobi’s excellent restaurants this evening, after the tour, to celebrate their adventure of a lifetime through Africa together.

  • Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

More Overland Safari Options

This northbound Africa Overland Tour is also available in the opposite direction as the Nairobi to Cape Town Tour - South, starting in Nairobi and ending in Cape Town. This northbound Cape Town to Nairobi Safari is also available as a Camping Overland Tour. For more details contact African Budget Safaris


Wildebeest Great Migration Explained

Please note that the Wildebeest Great Migration is seasonal. As a natural wildlife phenomenon, it is fluid and unpredictable. For this reason, seeing the Great Migration cannot be guaranteed.

The wildebeest and other wild herbivores migrate between Masai Mara in Kenya and Serengeti in Tanzania. These herds move in a massive circular route covering some 1200 miles (1931 kilometers). It is a continuous movement of wildlife that can be seen in different areas at different times of the year. During certain phases of this annual trek the animals disperse or slow down, whilst at other times the migration picks up speed, with the herds becoming larger and denser. Not only does the Wildebeest Great Migration vary from place to place and season to season but the movement of these large wildlife herds varies from year to year.

Please talk to a travel expert from African Budget Safaris about seeing the Wildebeest Great Migration on your safari to find out more. Also, check out our detailed article about the Great Migration in Serengeti and Masai Mara.

Optional Extras and Excursions

For up-to-date and confirmed pricing info for optional items, please drop us an enquiry.

South Africa Activities

  • Half-Day Canoe Trip 

Namibia Activities

  • Dinner Out in Swakopmund & Windhoek
  • Dolphin Cruise (4-5hours) 
  • Skydiving 
  • Sandboarding 
  • Quad Biking (2 hours) 

Botswana Activities

  • Scenic Delta Flight
  • Tips for Polers - Clients Discretion
  • Chobe National Park Game Drive

Zimbabwe Activities

  • Visit Victoria Falls
  • Zambezi Sunset Cruise 
  • Dinner Out in Victoria Falls 
  • Morning Tram & Bridge Tour 
  • Bungee Jump (solo) 
  • Helicopter Flights 
  • White Water Rafting 

Zambia Activities

  • Walking Safari in South Luangwa National Park 
  • Morning Game Drive in South Luangwa National Park 

Malawi Activities

  • Snorkeling
  • Hiking
  • Kayaking
  • Paddle skiing
  • Horse riding

Tanzania Activities

  • Afternoon Game Drive in Mikumi National Park
  • Swimming with Dolphins (min 2 people) 
  • Scuba Diving 
  • Tips for Guides - Clients Discretion
  • Dhow Sailing Trips
  • Jozani Forest
  • Turtle Sanctuary
  • Snorkelling
  • Fishing
  • Local Brewery Tour in Karatu
  • Karatu Iraqw Market
  • local coffee plantation tour in Karatu

Child Policy

This tour does take children.

There is a minimum age limit of 12 years of age, for travellers on scheduled departure dates.
A maximum of 4 children, aged between 12 - 15 years, will be allowed on any scheduled tour departure date.
Should there already be 4 children confirmed on a tour, any further children requests will be dealt with on a request basis only.

Age restrictions may apply to certain items listed in the respective tour activities and it is important that you are aware of these restrictions prior to confirming children on tour.

Please contact African Budget Safaris for further information.

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+Optional Activities & Day Trips
For confirmed pricing on these optional items, please drop us an enquiry

South Africa Activities

  • Half-Day Canoe Trip 

Namibia Activities

  • Dinner Out in Swakopmund & Windhoek
  • Dolphin Cruise (4-5hours) 
  • Skydiving 
  • Sandboarding 
  • Quad Biking (2 hours) 

Botswana Activities

  • Scenic Delta Flight
  • Tips for Polers - Clients Discretion
  • Chobe National Park Game Drive

Zimbabwe Activities

  • Visit Victoria Falls
  • Zambezi Sunset Cruise 
  • Dinner Out in Victoria Falls 
  • Morning Tram & Bridge Tour 
  • Bungee Jump (solo) 
  • Helicopter Flights 
  • White Water Rafting 

Zambia Activities

  • Walking Safari in South Luangwa National Park 
  • Morning Game Drive in South Luangwa National Park 

Malawi Activities

  • Snorkeling
  • Hiking
  • Kayaking
  • Paddle skiing
  • Horse riding

Tanzania Activities

  • Afternoon Game Drive in Mikumi National Park
  • Swimming with Dolphins (min 2 people) 
  • Scuba Diving 
  • Tips for Guides - Clients Discretion
  • Dhow Sailing Trips
  • Jozani Forest
  • Turtle Sanctuary
  • Snorkelling
  • Fishing
  • Local Brewery Tour in Karatu
  • Karatu Iraqw Market
  • local coffee plantation tour in Karatu
+Included in the Tour Price
  • Transport
  • Accommodation
  • Registered guides
  • Meals as per the itinerary
  • Activities as indicated 
+Not Included in the Tour Price
  • Travel insurance
  • Drinks and snacks
  • Personal items and tips
  • Optional activities
+Departure Dates

Scheduled Tour Departures
Click on a departure date to enquire

If you do not see departures listed for your dates, please do contact us for further info.

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