Travel from the mighty Victoria Falls in Zambia through the Great Rift Valley to the Indian Ocean coast of Tanzania.
Starting in Livingstone, Zambia, and the magnificent Victoria Falls, spend time in Zambia’s lush Lower Zambezi River basin and then head to the untamed South Luangwa National Park teeming with wildlife. Visit the serene shores and clear waters of Lake Malawi. Then ascend the Great Rift Valley into Tanzania and travel the beautiful mountain scenery of Tanzania’s scenic Southern Highlands and Mikumi National Park before arriving at the Indian Ocean coastline and ending in Dar es Salaam.
This budget friendly Camping Overland Safari stays at comfortable campsites along the way.
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 travelers 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.
This epic Victoria Falls to Dar es Salaam Africa Overland Camping Tour begins in the Zambian riverside of the magnificent Victoria Falls, one of the world’s great natural wonders, also known as "Mosi oa Tunya" – the Smoke that Thunders. We make an early start, so be sure to arrive in Livingstone a day or two before to take full advantage of the attractions and activities, such as visiting the falls viewpoints, bungee jumping, helicopter flights, white water rafting, Zambezi River cruises, and more.
We set off early in the morning from the Zambian side of Victoria Falls, catching a last glimpse of the majestic falls, before travelling through rural Southern Zambia. Colorful markets, busy villages, and rural scenes form the backdrop of our journey. We overnight at a lovely riverside campsite near the town of Chirundu and enjoy a prepared meal on arrival as your guides give a briefing on the adventure ahead.
Today is spent at leisure at our riverside camp near the town of Chirundu on the banks of the Kafue River, close to where it flows into the great Zambezi River, making it a popular destination for fishing the legendary Tiger Fish. If fishing is not your thing, there are plenty of other optional activities to choose from during your stay. Go bird watching, take a river safari, or hike to a nearby baobab forest and bat cave for sweeping views over this lovely valley. Alternatively, you may opt to take a full-day game drive in the remote Lower Zambezi National Park, home to a variety of animals, including elephants, buffalos, giraffes, and various antelope species. The park is also home to a healthy population of lions, often spotted lounging in the shade during the heat of the day, or on the prowl during the cooler evenings and mornings.
Day 3 of our Africa Overland Tour sees us journey along Zambia's Great East Road, passing through Lusaka, bustling capital city of Zambia, before continuing east. We cross the bridge over the mighty Luangwa River, built during Zambia's colonial era and a key engineering challenge due to its location and size. We will make a stop at the vibrant Luangwa Market, close to the bridge, where traders sell everything from fresh produce to beautiful basketware and other local crafts. Tonight, we stay at a campsite in the town of Petauke.
Our journey continues to the banks of the Luangwa River and South Luangwa National Park. En-route, we will make a stop at Mulberry Mongoose, a distinctive handcrafted jewelry business situated in Zambia's South Luangwa Valley. Accessories are meticulously crafted by local women using organic materials that are locally sourced, providing a unique opportunity to support local craftsmanship and acquire one-of-a-kind, locally made jewelry.
For the next two nights, we will camp at a tented camp situated on the picturesque banks of the Luangwa River in South Luangwa National Park, offering sweeping views over the plains beyond. The park is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including 4 of the Africa Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant & buffalo – sadly, Rhino are absent) and a variety of other animals including hippos, crocodiles, giraffe, the endangered African wild dog, and various antelope species.
On arrival, unwind and savor the camp, taking in the sight of passing animals while enjoying a refreshing drink. On Day 5, early risers will have the opportunity to participate in an optional Game Drive in South Luangwa. Alternatively, during the dry season (April to December), you can opt for one of the park's renowned walking safaris, led by a knowledgeable guide and accompanied by an armed ranger. Walking Safaris were first pioneered in South Luangwa.
Later in the day, we embark on a sunset game drive, allowing us to explore the diverse habitats of South Luangwa National Park, from lush riverbanks and woodlands to open plains and seasonal lagoons. We will pause for sundowners to relish the Zambian bush and the interplay of light as the sun sets, before continuing our game drive into the evening, hoping to catch a glimpse of the elusive nocturnal animals. South Luangwa is often referred to as the "Valley of the Leopard" due to its high density of these elusive big cats. Additionally, we may encounter civets, genets, hyenas, and the shy serval cat, as well as owls and other night birds.
Included Activity: Mulberry Mongoose Visit, Sunset Game Drive in South Luangwa National Park
Optional Activities: Morning Game Walk (seasonal) or Game Drive or in South Luangwa
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner x2
Day 6 of our overland adventure sees us cross into the next country on our tour, Malawi, ‘the warm heart of Africa’. We head for the serene shoreline of Lake Malawi, ninth-largest lake in the world that covers a vast area of Africa's Great Rift Valley. The lake has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site for the exceptional diversity of its freshwater fishes. Most famous are the endemic colorful cichlid fish popular in freshwater aquariums around the world.
For the next two nights we will stay at a beautiful campsite located on the central shores of Lake Malawi at beautiful Ngala Beach. Here, you will have time to enjoy the tranquil lake and the optional activities on offer. Stroll along the lakeside beach, soak up the sun, and swim in the crystal-clear waters. There are many optional activities for those seeking adventure. Explore the waters on a kayak, go snorkeling, or take a motorboat trip. You can also take a hike to the nearby forest reserve and waterfall or stroll along the lakeshore past local fishing villages.
Our Camping Overland Tour continues its drive along the shores of Lake Malawi, headed north. The lake extends an impressive 580 kilometers (360 miles) from its northern to southern shores. The shoreline is adorned with numerous fishing villages. We will make a stop at one of these villages, where your guide will lead a walking tour. This presents a unique opportunity to interact with local residents and gain valuable insights into their way of life.
Later in the day, we will reach our campsite in Chitimba, situated on the tranquil northern region of Lake Malawi. As the sun begins to set, take a leisurely stroll and marvel at the captivating interplay of light as it descends over the water.
Today our Victoria Falls to Dar es Salaam Overland Safari leaves the shores of beautiful Lake Malawi behind, headed east to the next country on our itinerary: Tanzania. The drive takes us through stunning Africa Rift Valley scenery into the Mbeya Mountains, a popular coffee growing region of Tanzania. Our next overnight stop is in a shared bungalow at a coffee plantation just near Mbeya.
Our overland journey continues. First stop today is a coffee plantation to observe the cultivation and harvesting processes of coffee. The Mbeya region is characterized by its cooler and more temperate climate, making it one of the best coffee-producing areas in Tanzania. You will have the opportunity to savor various brews crafted from these flavorful coffee beans.
Our accommodation for the night is a campsite located close to the town of Iringa, gracefully nestled on the mountain slopes of the Southern Tanzania Highlands with breathtaking views over the Ruaha River Valley. Iringa itself is a charming mix of old German colonial architecture, a vibrant market, and a poignant memorial honoring the lives of soldiers who sacrificed during the world wars.
Day 11 of our Overland Africa Tour sees us continue east through the highlands. En-route we stop at Baobab Valley, a valley dotted with iconic baobab trees, celebrated for their remarkable size and extraordinary longevity. The scene provides a striking backdrop for a group photograph.
Our next campsite lies at the entrance of Mikumi National Park, part of Tanzania's largest wildlife reserve area. This park is inhabited by a remarkable array of animals, such as lions, zebras, wildebeests, impalas, buffaloes, elephants, and boasts over 400 bird species. Should you so choose, there's an option to take an afternoon game drive within Mikumi National Park.
Our overland journey continues east to the Indian Ocean coastline and our final destination, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania's largest city and vibrant port. ‘Dar’ is a melting pot of diverse cultures, with influences from Arabic, Indian, and African traditions. The city offers a wide variety of restaurants serving delicious local dishes, including grilled meats and fresh seafood. You are free to explore the National Museum, take a boat ride to Bongoyo Island, a marine reserve with pristine beaches and clear waters ideal for snorkeling, or visit the bustling markets and historic sites. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the picturesque coastline, taking in the fresh sea breeze and the sight of traditional dhows and modern boats bobbing in the waters. The waterfront is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, providing a relaxing atmosphere to unwind, savor delicious seafood at waterfront restaurants, or simply soak in the maritime ambiance. We overnight at a comfortable city hotel.
After breakfast this morning, it is time to say goodbye to your fellow travelers. This Victoria Falls to Dar es Salaam Overland Camping Tour concludes in Dar es Salaam this morning.
We recommend booking your incoming and onward flights at least one day before and after this Victoria Falls to Dar es Salaam Overland Camping Safari is scheduled. It is advisable to arrive the day before departure from Livingstone and fly out the day after the overland tour ends in Dar es Salaam to allow for delays and changes, and to make the most of the many tourist attraction on offer.
Simply ask your friendly travel advisor to add pre-tour and post-tour accommodation to your safari booking.
This northbound Tour is also available in the opposite direction - Dar es Salaam to Vic Falls Camping Africa Overland Tour, starting in Dar es Salaam and ending in Victoria Falls.
This Camping Overland Tour is also available as a Lodge Overland Tour - Vic Falls to Dar es Salaam Lodge Overland Tour which follows the same itinerary and accommodation is staying in comfortable lodges instead of camping.
For more details contact African Budget Safaris
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