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Zanzibar Island, African Safari by Jorge Cancela

Serengeti to Kruger Safari Adventure - Overland Africa Tour

Tour Length27 days
Priced from pps $4276 R80299 £3424 3997 A$6544 C$5850 NZ$7199 Full pricing info
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Summary of this Camping Overland Tour

  • Max. Group Size 22 Travellers
  • Traveller Age Range 18 to 39 Years
  • Departs from Nairobi, Kenya
  • Ends at Johannesburg, South Africa
  • Accommodation Lodge & Camping Combo
  • Transport Ferry / Overland Vehicle / Microbus / Open 4x4 Game Viewing Vehicle
  • Wildlife Big 5, Elephant, Leopards, Lions, Rhino, Wildlife Conservation Experience & More
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2024 Itinerary Overview 2025 Info

Travel in an overland adventure vehicle built for the wilds, with like-minded young travelers for the ultimate African safari adventure!

This Serengeti to Kruger Safari Adventure begins in the legendary Serengeti Park of Tanzania and ends with the world-famous Kruger Park in South Africa - two of Africa's very best safari destinations. Star attractions along the way include the Ngorongoro Crater, hosting one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa, the idyllic beaches of Zanzibar Island, and the sandy shores of Lake Malawi. Add the unspoiled South Luangwa Park of Zambia, the natural wonder of Victoria Falls, and Matobo Park in Zimbabwe to the mix, for an unforgettable overland Africa adventure tour.

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Day 1: Nairobi - Kenya

Touch down in the capital of Kenya, Nairobi, in time for our evening meet-up at 18:00. The short meeting gives you a chance to meet your fellow travelers and guide, who tells you more about the safari adventure ahead.

Arriving early enough in the day will leave time for you to explore the megacity of Nairobi and do optional activities before our Serengeti to Kruger Safari Adventure begins.

Day 2: Nairobi to Arusha - Tanzania

Hop on our purpose-built overland adventure truck and head south through rural Kenya. Passing through Maasai territory we may see these striking, red-robed herders along the road.

Cross into Tanzania and proceed to Arusha, at the foot of Mount Meru. Keep an eye out for Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain in Africa, in the distance.

  • Travel: Nairobi – Arusha (10h/286km)
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 3: Arusha to Serengeti National Park - Tanzania

Set off into the world-famous Serengeti Park, the first safari destination on our Overland Africa Tour. Explore this prime Tanzanian wildlife park with experienced local guides. Travel in a maneuverable 7-seater 4x4 safari vehicle that gives you great views through large sliding windows and a pop-up roof. Serengeti is the heartland of African wildlife safaris - the archetypal wild African landscape teeming with game.

Entering Serengeti we soak up the scenes of untamed Africa and scan the savannahs for wildlife, making our way to our overnight safari camp.

  • Travel: Arusha – Serengeti National Park (8h/320km)
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 4: Serengeti Park & Ngorongoro - Tanzania

Venture back out into the wild African bush, on day 4 of this Serengeti to Kruger Safari Adventure. Today we cross the vast, acacia-dotted plains of Serengeti in search of wildlife. Keep your cameras ready as we explore the rolling grasslands in the 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof.

If you pre-booked the hot-air balloon safari in Serengeti then this morning you will drift over the savannahs instead of taking the game drive. Your guide will confirm when the balloon safari takes place as the timing changes.

Then we pack up camp and drive out of Serengeti National Park, into the fertile Ngorongoro Highlands. Tonight we camp at the lip of the crater, enjoying stunning views over the world's largest unflooded caldera. Ngorongoro Crater is considered one of the best places for game viewing in Africa, given the high density of wildlife found here.

  • Travel: Serengeti National Park – Ngorongoro (5h/160km)
  • Optional activity: Serengeti Hot-Air Balloon Safari
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 5: Ngorongoro to Arusha - Tanzania

Early this morning we drive down the steep crater walls in a 4x4 safari vehicle for an action-packed morning of game viewing. The high concentration of wild animals inhabiting the crater ensures superb wildlife sightings. Ngorongoro Crater is a good place to spot lions, rhinos, buffalos, elephants, wildebeest, hyenas, hippos, and cheetahs, along with an abundance of other large mammals.

After roaming the game-rich crater floor our overland Africa adventure heads out of the crater and back to Arusha.

Those who booked the Zanzibar Express will fly to Zanzibar Island the following morning, instead of driving down to Bagamoyo. The Zanzibar Express option includes transfers, breakfasts, flights, and accommodation overnight in Arusha and then Stone Town.

  • Travel: Ngorongoro – Arusha (5h/200km)
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 6: Arusha to Bagamoyo - Tanzania

Today we drive south through rural Tanzania to Bagamoyo on the East Coast of Africa. We pass Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest peak in Africa, continuing through farmlands and varied landscapes until we reach the Indian Ocean coastline.

Recently declared a World Heritage Site, Bagamoyo served as a key trading port on the coast of East Africa in the late 19th century.

  • Travel: Arusha – Bagamoyo (12h/590km)
  • Optional activity: Zanzibar Express (fly to Zanzibar)
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Please note: Those opting for the Zanzibar Express transfer to the Arusha airport, fly to Stone Town in Zanzibar, and spend the afternoon exploring on their own. The Zanzibar Express option includes an extra night of accommodation in Stone Town, rejoining the group tomorrow afternoon.

Day 7: Bagamoyo to Nungwi Beach Resort - Zanzibar Island

This morning we travel down to the busy port city of Dar es Salaam, which was once a small fishing village. From the Dar es Salaam we catch a ferry across to Zanzibar Island and drive from Stone Town to Nungwi village in the north.

Nungwi Beach is our picturesque beachside base for exploring the tropical island of Zanzibar, so kick off your shoes and take it easy. Take a swim in the gentle waves of the warm Indian Ocean and lie back on the white sands of the beautiful beaches. Walk into the village to see the island life of Zanzibar, or dive straight into the marine world on a dive or snorkel.

  • Travel: Dar es Salaam – Bagamoyo – Dar es Salaam (1h30m-2h/60km), Stone Town (Ferry 2h) & Stone Town – Nungwi (1h30m)
  • Meals included: Breakfast

Day 8: Nungwi Beach Resort - Zanzibar Island

Hello, beach time! After your safari adventures in the rugged African bush, a bit of rest and relaxation on the idyllic beaches of Zanzibar Island is just the right thing.

Go swimming, take a nap, and stroll on the sandy beaches - take time out in this tropical paradise. For those with more energy to burn today, there are snorkeling and scuba diving boat trips and shore reefs to see.

  • Meals included: Breakfast
  • Optional activities: Snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, island hopping boat trips & more

Day 9: Nungwi Beach to Stone Town - Zanzibar Island

Head back down to historic Stone Town and spend some time getting to know this unique and culturally diverse East African city.

On day nine of our African adventure we do a spice tour that takes us to nearby plantations to see, taste, and smell the exotic spices of Zanzibar. Find out more about the spices grown on the island - black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, breadfruit, jackfruit, vanilla, and lemongrass - learning more about the central role the spice trade has played in the history of Zanzibar and its ancient slave trade.

When in Stone Town, roam the winding streets of the historic old town where Arabic influences linger strongly, musing at the old buildings and places of worship. Visit the vivid markets, drink super strong coffee sold by street vendors, sample sweetmeats at quaint cafes and browse the shops filled with art, antiques, beautifully printed sarongs, curios, spices, and other treasures.

  • Travel: Nungwi Beach – Stone Town (4h)
  • Meals included: Breakfast

Day 10: Stone Town to Baobab Valley - Tanzania

Catch the ferry boat back to Dar es Salaam where we hop back onto our adventure tour vehicle and drive west to Baobab Valley.

In Baobab Valley we camp on the banks of the Ruaha River, on the outskirts of the Udzwungwa Mountains National Park. Sit back and enjoy a serene sunset over the lush landscape and get ready for some rewarding stargazing.

  • Travel: Stone Town – Dar es Salaam (Ferry 2h/200km) & Dar es Salaam – Baobab Valley (6h/360km)
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 11: Baobab Valley to Iringa - Tanzania

On the road again, today our Serengeti to Kruger Safari Adventure takes us south into the tea-growing region of the Tanzanian Highlands.

Our stop for today, Iringa. Arriving in the pleasant city we visit a community project where local artists with disabilities make crafts. Browse and get some souvenirs and have a quick cup of coffee in the cafe at the center.

  • Travel: Baobab Valley – Iringa (5h/180km)
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 12: Iringa to Chitimba - Malawi

On day 12 of our Overland Africa Tour, we cross into the third country on our journey - Malawi. Travel straight to the scenic shores of Lake Malawi, one of the African Great Lakes of the East African Rift Valley.

Our first destination in Malawi is Chitimba Beach - a lovely sandy stretch of Lake Malawi's shores, flanked by mountains in the distance. Watch the flickering lights of the fishermen's boats to see why Lake Malawi is known as 'the Lake of Stars'.

  • Travel: Iringa – Chitimba (9h/235km)
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 13: Chitimba to Kande Beach - Malawi

Drive south along the shoreline of massive Lake Malawi, stopping at Kande Beach. Unwind and take a stroll on the lakeshore, enjoying the sub-tropical climate and pretty scenery. Enjoy a drink at the local bar, have fun with your group, and mingle with other travelers.

  • Travel: Chitimba – Kande Beach (5h)
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 14: Kande Beach - Malawi

Spend the whole day of day 14 of our Serengeti to Kruger Safari Adventure at Kande Beach. Spend some time meeting local people in the village, lazing on the beach, or taking a walk. Swim in the clear blue waters, or snorkel to see the cichlids and other marine animals of Lake Malawi.

This evening we eat at a local home, getting a taste of traditional Malawian food and warm hospitality.

  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
  • Optional activities: Snorkel in Lake Malawi & Visit a Local Village

Day 15: Kande Beach to Chipata - Zambia

Travel into a new African country today - Zambia. We make our way through rural farmlands and bushveld to Chipata in Eastern Zambia.

Formerly called Fort Jameson, Chipata is a busy town often visited en route to South Luangwa National Park.

  • Travel: Kande Beach – Chipata (7h/400km)
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 16: Chipata to Mfuwe & South Luangwa Park - Zambia

Today we take the relatively short drive to Mfuwe at South Luangwa. Along the way, we stop for lunch at a Cafe and Tribal Textile initiative. Take a look at the local crafts and find out about the benefits being generated for local communities and wildlife conservation. After our quick tour of the community workshop, we have a tasty lunch at the locally-run cafe.

This afternoon you are free to embark on an optional game drive in the beautiful South Luangwa National Park, which hosts numerous wild animals and over 400 bird species.

Alternatively, you can simply relax at the safari camp.

  • Travel: Chipata – South Luangwa (2h/150km)
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
  • Optional activities: Game Drive in South Luangwa

Day 17: South Luangwa National Park - Zambia

Day 17 of our Overland Africa Tour is set aside for exploring the South Luangwa National Park area of the scenic Luangwa Valley.

This is one of Africa's finest safari destinations - an untouched haven inhabited by high concentrations of game and birds. Big herds of elephants and buffalos are drawn to the Luangwa River, which hosts an abundance of hippos and crocodiles. Other wildlife in South Luangwa include lions, sizeable populations of Thornicroft's giraffes, zebras, and a variety of antelopes such as kudus.

You can embark on an optional walking safari in season, with South Luangwa being famous for its game viewing walks. You can also head into a local village for a cultural experience. Then there is also the option of setting off on a night game drive in search of nocturnal animals, including leopards.

  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
  • Optional activities: South Luangwa Game Drive or Walking Safari (in season)

Day 18: Mfuwe to Lusaka Area - Zambia

Early this morning we leave Mfuwe and the South Luangwa National Park area and head towards Lusaka, the capital of Zambia.

Soak up the scenery as we drive through Zambia to a private game farm near Lusaka. We set off early in the morning, following rough roads to the game park, where zebras, buffalos, and antelopes are often spotted.

Relax at the pool and unwind in the bar at the end of a long day on the road in Africa.

  • Travel: South Luangwa – Lusaka (12h/750km)
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 19: Lusaka to Victoria Falls - Zimbabwe

On day 19 we continue further southwest in our adventure vehicle, making our way to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.

Begin by visiting one of Africa's most unforgettable natural wonders - the spectacular Victoria Falls. Fill your senses and feel the power of the falls as you stand in the spray of this thunderous curtain of water.

End your day off with a relaxing optional cruise along the Zambezi River, watching a serene African sunset and looking out for wildlife and birds.

  • Travel: Lusaka – Vitoria Falls (7h/543km)
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch
  • Optional activities: Victoria Falls Visit & Zambezi Sunset Cruise

Day 20: Victoria Falls - Zimbabwe

An exhilarating array of optional activities awaits you on day 20 of this Serengeti to Kruger Safari Adventure. If you didn't visit Vic Falls yesterday, be sure to go see the 'Smoke that Thunders' today for an awe-inspiring experience.

The range of thrilling adventure activities includes bungee jumping from Victoria Falls Bridge and whitewater rafting on the Zambezi River, ranked as some of the best river rafting in the world. Another exciting option is to fly over Victoria Falls in a helicopter, plane, or microlight, viewing the full extent of this majestic waterfall from above. For more options, ask for advice and help with bookings at the lodge's reception desk.

This evening we welcome any new travelers that may be joining the group for the remainder of our African safari adventure and enjoy an optional dinner together.

  • Optional activities: Victoria Falls Tour, Whitewater Rafting, Helicopter Flights, Bungee Jumping, Zambezi River Sunset Cruise & more

Day 21: Victoria Falls to Matobo National Park - Zimbabwe

Squeeze in one last activity or explore the town of Victoria Falls this morning. And then, we are off to our next destination - Matobo National Park near Bulawayo, in our overland adventure truck.

  • Travel: Victoria Falls – Matobo National Park (6h/475km)
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 22: Matobo National Park - Zimbabwe

Today we explore Matobo National Park on our overland Africa adventure. Our game drive takes us in search of white rhinos and other wildlife found in Matobo. Take in the surreal landscapes strewn with granite boulders, while looking for wildlife out in the bush.

Matobo National Park is an important wildlife haven, especially for the rhinos of Zimbabwe, as well as being a place of great cultural and historical value.

  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 23: Matobo National Park to Tshipise - South Africa

Time to head into the final country on our African safari adventure - South Africa.

We drive to Tshipise in the Limpopo Province of South Africa, near the unusual town of Musina. You have the option of taking a soothing soak in the hot springs at Tshipise.

  • Travel: Matobo National Park – Tshipise (7h/600km)
  • Optional activities: Soak in Hot Springs
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 24: Tshipise to Kruger National Park - South Africa

Hop on the adventure truck and travel south into the world-famous Kruger National Park, one of the best game reserves in Africa.

The vast wilderness area of Kruger offers outstanding game viewing, being renowned for its excellent sightings of the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo, and elephant). We spend the day exploring Kruger National Park, spotting a diversity of wild animals, from giraffes, zebras, and antelopes, to hyenas, cheetahs, and endangered African wild dogs.

  • Travel: Tshipise – Kruger National Park (6h)
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 25: Kruger National Park to Manyeleti - South Africa

Day 25 of our Overland Africa Tour brings more world-class game viewing in Kruger National Park and a Shangaan cultural experience in the evening.

Explore Kruger Park in our overland adventure vehicle, making the most of our last foray into the untamed African bush. Alternatively, embark on a 4x4 game drive in an open safari vehicle at extra cost. Keep a lookout for wildlife and birds as we drive through the incredibly game-rich wilds of the premier national park in South Africa.

Tonight we are treated to a Shangaan dance performance and a tasty homemade dinner. Take the chance to try out traditional African dancing and let your hair down.

  • Travel: Kruger National Park – Manyeleti (5h30/80km)
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
  • Optional activities: 4x4 Kruger Safari

Day 26: Manyeleti to Johannesburg - South Africa

Today we leave the African bush behind, making our way through scenic landscapes to the biggest city in South Africa - Johannesburg.

  • Travel: Manyeleti – Johannesburg (8h/400km)
  • Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch

Day 27: Johannesburg - South Africa

Enjoy breakfast together on the last morning of this Serengeti to Kruger Safari Adventure. Then it's time to say goodbye to your travel companions and crew taking the photographs and memories of a lifetime with you.

  • Meals included: Breakfast

Adventure Tour Notes:

  • Age restriction: 18 - 39 years old only
  • Accommodation: Participation camping (19 nights), fully-serviced camping (2 nights), simple hotels (5 nights)
  • Transportation: Overland Adventure Vehicle (OAV), 4x4 safari vehicles, minibus, ferry, walking
  • Group size: maximum of 22 people (average of 18)

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 (1931km). 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.

KENYA

Nairobi (pre-safari)

  • Bomas of Kenya
  • Giraffe Centre
  • Karen Blixen Museum
  • Nairobi National Park
  • Nairobi Safari Walk, Animal Orphanage & Impala Sanctuary
  • National Museum
  • Railway Museum
  • The Carnivore Restaurant 
  • Hells Gate Bike hire 
  • Elsamer Conservation Centre

TANZANIA

Serengeti Park

  • Hot-air Balloon Safari

Zanzibar Island

  • Snorkeling 
  • North Coast Tour
  • Sailing Trip 
  • Dolphin Tour
  • Scuba Diving
  • Zanzibar Express (Flight & Overnight in Stone Town)

MALAWI

Lake Malawi

  • Village Tours
  • Snorkeling
  • Scuba Diving
  • Horse riding
  • Guided walk to Livingstonia

ZIMBABWE

Victoria Falls

  • Falls Tour in Zambia or Zimbabwe (excludes visa & park fees)
  • Flights over the Falls: helicopter / microlight (15mins / 30mins)
  • Livingstone Island (Devil's Pool) - Morning Breezer / Lunch / High Tea (excludes transfers)
  • Livingstone Tour, Mukuni Village Visit or African Culture Tour (markets, cooking lunch, languages)
  • Zambezi White Water Rafting / Zambezi Sunset Cruise
  • Full-day Chobe Safari (Victoria Falls Return) - Chobe River Cruise & Chobe Game Drive (includes transfers, park fees, drinks & lunch)

SOUTH AFRICA

Kruger National Park

  • Sunrise or sunset game drives
  • Full day open 4x4 vehicle game drive
  • Morning game walk

Johannesburg/Pretoria (post-safari)

  • Johannesburg City Tour 
  • Pretoria City Tour
  • Mandela Village Township Tour (full day)
  • Dinner in South African home 
  • Cradle of Humankind
  • Sun City and Pilanesberg Nature Reserve 
  • Excursion to Lesedi Cultural Village
  • Gold Reef City (full day)
  • Soweto cultural tour (half-day or full-day) 
  • Apartheid museum entrance

Child Policy

This tour does not take children.

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For confirmed pricing on these optional items, please drop us an enquiry

KENYA

Nairobi (pre-safari)

  • Bomas of Kenya
  • Giraffe Centre
  • Karen Blixen Museum
  • Nairobi National Park
  • Nairobi Safari Walk, Animal Orphanage & Impala Sanctuary
  • National Museum
  • Railway Museum
  • The Carnivore Restaurant 
  • Hells Gate Bike hire 
  • Elsamer Conservation Centre

TANZANIA

Serengeti Park

  • Hot-air Balloon Safari

Zanzibar Island

  • Snorkeling 
  • North Coast Tour
  • Sailing Trip 
  • Dolphin Tour
  • Scuba Diving
  • Zanzibar Express (Flight & Overnight in Stone Town)

MALAWI

Lake Malawi

  • Village Tours
  • Snorkeling
  • Scuba Diving
  • Horse riding
  • Guided walk to Livingstonia

ZIMBABWE

Victoria Falls

  • Falls Tour in Zambia or Zimbabwe (excludes visa & park fees)
  • Flights over the Falls: helicopter / microlight (15mins / 30mins)
  • Livingstone Island (Devil's Pool) - Morning Breezer / Lunch / High Tea (excludes transfers)
  • Livingstone Tour, Mukuni Village Visit or African Culture Tour (markets, cooking lunch, languages)
  • Zambezi White Water Rafting / Zambezi Sunset Cruise
  • Full-day Chobe Safari (Victoria Falls Return) - Chobe River Cruise & Chobe Game Drive (includes transfers, park fees, drinks & lunch)

SOUTH AFRICA

Kruger National Park

  • Sunrise or sunset game drives
  • Full day open 4x4 vehicle game drive
  • Morning game walk

Johannesburg/Pretoria (post-safari)

  • Johannesburg City Tour 
  • Pretoria City Tour
  • Mandela Village Township Tour (full day)
  • Dinner in South African home 
  • Cradle of Humankind
  • Sun City and Pilanesberg Nature Reserve 
  • Excursion to Lesedi Cultural Village
  • Gold Reef City (full day)
  • Soweto cultural tour (half-day or full-day) 
  • Apartheid museum entrance
+Included in the Tour Price
  • Serengeti Safari & Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive
  • 3-day Zanzibar Island Trip & Guided Spice Tour
  • Local dinner experience (Lake Malawi)
  • Guided Game Drive in Matobo Park
  • Kruger Safari in overland adventure vehicle
  • Traditional African dinner and dancing
  • Transport between destinations & to/from included activities
  • Meals as per itinerary
  • Accommodation as per itinerary
  • Two safari guides (cook/guide & driver)
+Not Included in the Tour Price
  • Optional activities
  • Meals not listed as included
+Departure Dates

Scheduled Tour Departures
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