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The affordable Southern Africa Overland Tour of a lifetime! Travel north from Cape Town in South Africa through Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe (Victoria Falls), and south into eSwatini then Mozambique, and finally Kruger and the Panorama Route in South Africa.
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 Southern Africa Overland Tour departs from the beautiful city of Cape Town. We depart from the DoubleTree by Hilton Cape Town at 08:00 am. Please ensure you arrive at the departure point at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
On the way out of town, we stop on the other side of Table Bay to appreciate the iconic view of Table Mountain and ‘city bowl’ from across the bay. From Cape Town, we head north past farmlands and quaint farm stalls to the picturesque Cederberg Region of the Western Cape, known for its rugged mountains, verdant valleys, and citrus farms. The mountains take their name from the endangered Clanwilliam Cedar tree, endemic to this part of South Africa. Our first campsite is on a farm near the town of Citrusdal, below the towering mountains. As we tuck into a hearty dinner, your guide will brief you on the adventure that lies ahead.
For this portion of our safari, we travel in a 20-seater overland safari truck from Cape Town to Victoria Falls.
On Day 2 of our camping overland tour, we continue north. The mountains give way to arid flat land as we travel through the dry Namaqualand region of South Africa. This sparsely populated region of the country is famous for its seasonal wildflowers, which burst into colorful blooms each springtime (July to September).
We stop in the remote town of Springbok for last-minute supplies before crossing into the next country on our overland tour, Namibia. Once border formalities are complete, we head to our campsite close by, set on the banks of the Orange River, which forms the border between South Africa and Namibia. Enjoy a hearty meal under the starry African sky beside the Orange River.
In the morning, we have the option to experience the Orange River, South Africa's longest river, by canoe. Take in the rugged scenery and spot birds and animals along the riverbanks as you gently paddle downstream. Alternatively, relax in the tranquillity of our riverside camp.
At midday, we are back on the overland truck and set off north into the Namibian desert towards the mighty Fish River Canyon, the second-largest canyon in the world. It is 27 kilometers (17 miles) across at its widest point. We'll travel to a lookout point on the rim of the Fish River Canyon and stroll along the edge to stretch our legs and marvel at the view. We then turn west and travel to Keetmanshoop, where we will spend the night.
On Day 4 of our Overland Camping Tour, we are up early to visit a quiver tree forest made up of some 250 quirky quiver trees that cast a distinctive silhouette on the landscape. This quiver tree forest is a national monument, as many of the trees are over 200 years old. Unfortunately, the Quiver Tree is currently listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List due to factors like climate change and habitat destruction. We then visit Giants Playground nearby, a unique geological site of large dolerite rock columns and boulders that appear to be deliberately stacked by giants at play. The rock columns and boulders at Giants Playground were formed by the slow cooling and cracking of molten lava, creating basalt columns that have naturally eroded over aeons to create this otherworldly landscape that makes a perfect backdrop for great photographs.
Our journey continues through sparsely populated landscapes to the fabled fiery red dunes in the west, transforming landscapes showcasing the diverse faces of this desert nation. Our voyage takes us to the heart of the Namib Desert, where our desert camp is situated just at the edge of the Namib National Park. The camp also boasts a refreshing swimming pool and a bar, so you can unwind and take a dip to wash off the desert dust.
Today, we are up early to reach the Namib-Naukluft National Park as the sun rises. This is the land of Namibia’s iconic red-orange hued dunefields that glow magically in the light of dawn and dusk. We start the day with a climb up to the top of the iconic sand dune, Dune 45, to witness the beautiful light and changing colors of the surrounding desert in the early morning hours. Back at the bottom of the dune, we have a hearty breakfast in the desert.
Then we take a 4x4 transfer into the heart of the famous Sossusvlei Dunes to immerse ourselves in this remarkable landscape. We spend time exploring Sossusvlei and the salt pan in its center, Deadvlei, on foot. Soak in the contrasting scenery of the crusted pans scattered with ancient dead trees against the red-orange hue of the sand dunes. Then to the nearby Sesriem Canyon to admire the rock formations and local flora and fauna of this deep, ancient gorge. We head to our desert campsite for a laid-back evening under the starry Namib Desert skies.
Next, our Africa Overland Tour leaves the ochre sands of the Namib Desert behind. This morning, we cross the Tropic of Capricorn en route to the Atlantic coastline of Namibia, stopping to photograph this auspicious occasion! Then it’s on to Swakopmund, the adventure capital of Namibia, where we will stay in a central hotel for two nights. You will be briefed on the many optional activities available for the next day.
Located along the rugged shores of the icy Atlantic with the sandy desert surrounding it, Swakopmund is a quaint seaside town where strong colonial and contemporary German influences can be seen. Your time here is free to explore the sights, stroll along the seafront, or try one of the exciting mix of optional activities on offer. Take a quad bike ride over the dunes, try sandboarding, go skydiving or take a cruise to see dolphins along the coast of Swakopmund. Swakopmund also has a great selection of restaurants, coffee shops and bakeries to choose from.
Our Southern African Overland Tour leaves Swakopmund, heading north up Namibia’s coastline. We stop in the picturesque seaside village of Wlotskabaken to admire the scene of quaint holiday cottages nestled between the desert sands and the deep blue sea. From there, we proceed to the otherworldly landscapes of Lichen Fields nearby to learn about these complex organisms from a local expert. Formed through a symbiotic relationship between fungi and algae, lichens are well adapted to survive the harsh desert conditions by absorbing moisture from mist and fog that rolls in from the Atlantic Ocean.
Our journey then veers away from the coastline, leading us towards the Brandberg, Namibia's highest mountain, that are home to a wealth of ancient rock art sites, including the famed White Lady. Set off on a hike with your guide, following the rugged terrain of the dry Tsisab River bed and exploring the fascinating geology and rock art that is some 2000 years old. The walk takes approximately 2 hours before we head to a nearby campsite
On Day 9, our overland lodge safari heads northeast toward Namibia’s premier wilderness destination—Etosha National Park. Spanning an impressive 22,270 square kilometres (8,600 square miles), it ranks as one of Africa’s largest national parks. The name "Etosha," meaning "Great White Place" in the Ovambo language, refers to the expansive, shallow Etosha Pan located at the heart of the park. This enormous salt pan is so vast that it can be seen from space.
Get ready for thrilling wildlife encounters in one of Africa’s most iconic ecosystems. Tonight, we will stay at a comfortable safari camp near Etosha, anticipating our exciting day in Etosha National Park tomorrow.
Over the next two days of our camping overland safari, we explore Etosha National Park on game drives. We cross the open plains, scattered with acacia woodlands, and visit waterholes and the dusty fringes of the Etosha Pan. The salt pan was once a massive inland lake, but today the flat expanse stands almost entirely dry, except for the shallow waters that sometimes collect during rainy seasons. When shallow pools form in the pans, it attracts large flocks of birds. Short grasses sprout after the rains, which draw in herds of grazers.
At the watering holes, wildlife watching is often particularly rewarding, given the congregation of herbivores and predators drawn to the precious water sources. Etosha is known for its dramatic wildlife sightings, not only because of the stark landscapes but also due to the intense competition that unfolds in its harsh environment, especially at the waterholes. With some luck, we are likely to encounter lions, rhinos, and leopards. Chances of sighting elephants, zebras, giraffes, gemsbok, springbok, and other antelopes are excellent.
Day 11 starts with a leisurely breakfast and an easy morning unwinding at the safari resort. After lunch, we head to our next overnight safari resort near Etosha, entering the park en route for an afternoon game drive in the overland truck.
We bid the arid landscapes of Etosha farewell and head northeast to the verdant lands surrounding the Kavango River, where waters from the Angolan highlands flow on their journey through Namibia before emptying into the Okavango Delta in neighbouring Botswana. Our destination in Divundu lies near the Kavango River, a vital life source in this region, attracting a wealth of wildlife to its shores. Its waters teem with crocodiles and hippos. For the next 2 nights, we will stay at a campsite near the Kavango River in Divundu.
We start the day with a relaxing boat cruise along the peaceful Kavango River, soaking in the serene landscapes and watching for birdlife, hippos, and crocodiles along the riverbanks. In the afternoon, there’s an optional game drive in nearby Mahangu National Park—an off-the-beaten-path reserve renowned for its rich variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, antelope, and big cats.
Next, it’s time to journey into the next country on our Africa Overland Tour - Botswana! Our route takes us through the lush Caprivi Strip. It’s rich in wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for elephants, antelopes, and various bird species. After crossing the border into Botswana, you'll traverse the vast plains of the Okavango Delta, headed for our overnight destination: Maun, gateway to the Okavango Delta.
Day 15 of our overland safari adventure sees us leaving the overland safari truck behind and heading out in the smaller 4x4 safari vehicles with smaller overnight bags, taking only our essentials for our 2-night trip into the Okavango Delta region.
We will spend the next nights in a tented camp in the Khwai Conservation Area of the Delta, located between the renowned Moremi Game Reserve and Chobe National Park. This area is known for its excellent game viewing throughout the year. With luck, we'll see plenty of wildlife as we drive.
Early risers have the chance to take an optional scenic flight over the Okavango Delta (weather and time permitting) before we head to the Delta. The flight offers the chance to get a unique aerial perspective of this great natural wonder – a river delta flowing into a dry, dusty desert and teeming with wildlife.
After settling into camp, we head out to a poler's station about an hour from the lodge. Local guides will paddle us out into the Delta waterways in traditional-style mokoros (dug-out canoes). The guides have an intimate knowledge of the reed-lined channels and tranquil lagoons dotted with lily pads and host to a great variety of animals. Get a close-up look at the unique flora and fauna of the Okavango Delta as we move along slowly and quietly. You are able to take a nature walk on one of the islands, a chance to learn about the fascinating plants and smaller creatures encountered.
Please note that the Mokoro excursion may run on an alternative day depending on the season/water levels.
Accommodation in Khwai can best be described as a rustic-style mobile fly camp. Your meru style tent is equipped with 2 single beds and adjoining en-suite amenities consisting of a bucket shower system and chemical toilet.
On Day 16 of our Southern Africa Overland Tour, we are up early for our full day of exploring Botswana's Okavango Delta region with a full-day 4x4 safari drive through Moremi National Park in the heart of the Okavango Delta. Moremi is the first game reserve in Africa to be established by locals and is named after Chief Moremi of the BaTawana tribe, who were concerned about the rapid depletion of wildlife in their ancestral lands.
The natural beauty of Moremi is captivating, with islands fringed with palms and open grasslands crisscrossed by meandering waterways and papyrus swamps. The seasonal waters support a prolific wildlife population - hippos and crocodiles wallow in the waters, while on land we hope to spot the Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros) and other species, including cheetah, giraffe, zebras, many types of antelope, and a rich variety of birdlife. The park is particularly famous for its leopards and endangered wild dogs.
Day 17 of our Overland Camping Safari sees us take our final drive through the Okavango Delta back to Maun. Here we rejoin the overland truck and head out of town into the Kalahari Desert. We drive through rural Botswana, heading for the Makgadigadi Pans, the crusty remnants of an ancient, massive lake that once covered a significant portion of the country. Makgadigadi actually consists of several salt pans, parched and desolate during the dry season, while in the wet season some areas fill with water, attracting a variety of wildlife, including migratory birds and great herds of zebra. We overnight at a safari camp in Nata.
Day 18 sees us continue our route through the desert, headed northeast towards the border. The dry arid landscape becomes greener and lush as we approach the Chobe River, which forms the border with Namibia. Our destination is the town of Kasane, which lies at the confluence of the Chobe River and the great Zambezi River, and close to the border of four countries – Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Our campsite for the night is beautifully located on the banks of the Chobe River.
After lunch and a siesta, we head out for a boat cruise on the Chobe River, along the banks of Chobe National Park, renowned for its huge population of migratory elephants and large buffalo herds. From the water, we get up close to plenty of wild animals, crocodiles, and hippo wallowing in the waters, while buffalo, elephants and herds of antelope graze on the riverbanks, making for excellent photographic opportunities.
On day 19, with our unforgettable wildlife encounters still fresh in mind, we cross the border into Zimbabwe this morning and make our way to the spectacular town of Victoria Falls. Locally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya – “the smoke that thunders” – this natural wonder never fails to impress. Spend the day exploring the viewpoints and taking in the awe-inspiring sight of the Zambezi River plunging into the Batoka Gorge below.
Beyond the Falls themselves, Victoria Falls town is alive with energy and offers something for every kind of traveller. Adventure-seekers can enjoy optional adrenaline activities in the afternoon, while those who prefer a slower pace can browse the craft markets or relax in one of the local cafés. This evening, you may choose to join your group for an optional dinner at a local restaurant — a lovely way to enjoy a final evening together and share stories from the journey. Your guide will assist with arrangements.
The next two days are yours to enjoy at your own pace in the vibrant town of Victoria Falls. After breakfast, take a leisurely walk into town and get a feel for this friendly, adventure-filled destination. Whether you’re drawn to high-energy thrills or tranquil moments in nature, there’s something here for everyone.
Pre-bookable activities include everything from white-water rafting and scenic helicopter flights to sunset cruises and cultural performances. The choice is entirely yours.
The flight from Victoria Falls to Johannesburg is not included in your tour cost. You can decide whether to spend your final days in Victoria Falls or Johannesburg. Accommodation for nights 20 to 22 is included, but please inform us of your preference so we can confirm your stay accordingly. You will be responsible for booking your own flight to Johannesburg.
Your final full day in Victoria Falls is free to spend exactly as you wish. You may opt to relax at your safari camp, revisit your favourite local spots, or take part in one of the many optional activities still on offer. Whether you’re chasing one last adventure or simply soaking up the relaxed atmosphere, today is your opportunity to savour this iconic destination at your leisure.
If you have chosen to spend your additional days in Victoria Falls, today marks your travel day to Johannesburg. The most convenient way to make this journey is by air, with several airlines operating regular flights to OR Tambo International Airport. Please note that this flight is not included in your tour price and should be booked directly with your chosen airline.
Today our Safari leaves the bustling city of Johannesburg, travelling through open farmlands, small towns and rolling hills en route to the next country on our Southern Africa Overland Tour, eSwatini. For this portion of your journey, the tour type changes from an Overland Group to a Small Group Tour, accommodated in lodges or safari lodges and travelling in a 12-seater mini-bus.
Eswatini is a small landlocked country surrounded by South Africa and Mozambique, and is one of the few remaining absolute monarchies in the world. The flatlands give way to stunning mountains and forested areas as we enter eSwatini, headed for the picturesque landscapes of the "Valley of Heaven" or Ezulwini Valley. For the next two nights, we will camp in the Milwane Wildlife Sanctuary set against the beautiful backdrop of mountains, forests, and wildlife. Mlilwane is popular for its relaxed atmosphere, lovely hiking trails, and a variety of smaller game species with an absence of dangerous predators.
The Reserve features a network of nine interconnected walking trails, and on the morning of Day 24, your safari guide takes you to explore. As you walk through the bush, your guide tells you more about the local environment and history, pointing out interesting sights along the way. The rest of the day is yours to relax by the pool, explore the botanical trail in the rest camp, hire a mountain bike, or go horse riding. You can also visit a Roan Antelope breeding project or take a guided village tour.
Today, our Africa Overland Tour heads to the largest protected wilderness area in eSwatini, the Hlane Royal Game Reserve, covering an area of approximately 30,000 hectares. We take a game drive through the savannah grasslands, woodlands, and wetlands of the reserve, with the Lubombo Mountains as a stunning backdrop. Hlane is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the Big 5 (lion, elephant, leopard, rhinoceros, and buffalo), various antelope species, hippos, crocodiles, giraffes, zebras, and a wide array of bird species. Hlane is particularly renowned for its thriving population of white rhinoceros.
This morning, we leave the African bush and eSwatini behind. Our overland tour takes us into the next country on our tour, Mozambique, on the East Coast of Africa, where the warm Indian Ocean waters await. Once in Mozambique, we drive through beautiful rural landscapes, past the capital city of Maputo, to the idyllic seaside village of Xai Xai (pronounced 'shy-shy') and our beautiful seaside lodge. We arrive late afternoon, so there is time to take a dip in the balmy ocean or a long stroll on the beach.
Our Southern African Safari continues north up the Mozambique coastline to the coastal town of Vilanculos, the next Mozambican beach stop on our Southern Africa Tour. This lively town is known for its long, pristine beaches and calm waters perfect for swimming and other water activities. It is ideally located for exploring the three main islands of the idyllic Bazaruto Archipelago (Bazaruto, Benguerra, and Magaruque), lying just off the mainland of Mozambique. The Bazaruto Archipelago is Mozambique’s premier travel destination - a tropical beach paradise with clear turquoise waters and palm-fringed islands. As a protected area, the reefs are pristine, and the sea life here is spectacular.
Arriving at the lodge in Vilanculos late this afternoon, take a dip to cool off before your guide briefs you about the trip to the Bazaruto Islands tomorrow.
Today we take a day trip to the dazzling Bazaruto Archipelago, known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean. This morning set sail for Magaruque Island in a dhow, a traditional wooden sailing boat that has been used on the Swahili coastline for centuries. Spend the day exploring the island on foot, swimming in the crystal-clear ocean and enjoying some spectacular snorkeling on the colorful reefs.
This cluster of five unspoiled tropical islands is considered one of the most beautiful places in Africa. It is also Mozambique’s only marine reserve, world-renowned for superb diving and snorkeling due to the abundant sea creatures inhabiting its intact reefs. Marine life includes an impressive variety of tropical fish, whales, and dolphins, as well as the rare Dugong (sea cow). Some of the aquatic creatures sighted on dives include whale sharks, manta rays, turtles, lobsters, barracuda, clownfish, Moorish idols, and mackerel. In the afternoon, we make our way back to Vilanculos, sun-kissed and relaxed.
Our Overland Africa Tour heads south down the Mozambican coast to the Inhambane Peninsula. The drive takes us through coconut, cashew, and sugar plantations of rural Mozambique, dotted with small villages. For the next three nights, we will stay in a lodge at Barra Beach at the top of the peninsula, an idyllic setting for relaxation. Settle in and take a stroll on the palm-fringed beach or enjoy a refreshing dip in the Indian Ocean. We will enjoy a hearty Neptune’s Dinner with some delicious fresh seafood that Mozambique is famous for.
Your days are free to enjoy the picturesque beaches of Mozambique and try some optional activities. Snorkeling, scuba diving, kiteboarding, and fishing are popular at Barra Beach due to the excellent conditions and abundant marine life.
On Day 31, we take a day trip to Praia do Tofo, another beautiful beach location on the Inhambane Peninsula and a popular adventure destination. Browse the market for fresh produce, local crafts, and interact with the friendly locals. Sample local foods, lounge on the beach, or participate in the optional activities. Once a sleepy fishing village, today Tofo is one of the most popular dive destinations in Africa and one of the best places in the world to see whale sharks. An Ocean Safari is the perfect opportunity for snorkeling with whale sharks and manta rays (seasonal).
Sun-kissed and well-rested, we leave Barra Beach this morning. Next, our Africa Overland Tour travels back south along the pretty coast of Mozambique. Take in the rural scenery of mango trees dripping with fruit, cashew nuts, and fruit sellers along the roadside, small villages, and roaming livestock.
The vibrant capital city, Maputo, is our last overnight stop in Mozambique. The city's architecture tells the story of its past, from colonial rule to independence, Art Deco to contemporary modern developments. We overnight at a hotel on the Maputo Waterfront, also known as the Marginal, a lively promenade along the coastline to take a leisurely stroll, soak in the ocean views, and enjoy the sea breeze. Your guide will lead you on a walking tour of this intriguing city.
Our Africa Safari leaves Mozambique today, heading inland from Maputo and crossing back over into South Africa. Our next destination is the world-renowned Kruger National Park covering 19,485 square kilometers (7,523 square miles) in the northeastern part of South Africa, along the borders with Mozambique and Zimbabwe. For the next three nights, we stay at a safari camp located in a private wildlife concession area within Kruger National Park.
On Day 34, we make an early start and spend the day exploring Kruger National Park in an open-sided 4x4 game viewing vehicle, in search of the abundance of wildlife in this biodiversity hotspot, including the Big 5 (elephant, lion, leopard, rhino, and buffalo) and a host of other species. In fact, Kruger has more species of large mammals than any other African game reserve. We traverse various habitats within the park, from grasslands and woodlands to riverbanks, keeping a lookout for the many animals, birds, and plant species along the way. Kruger Park protects an unrivalled diversity of plant and animal species, and our open 4x4 safari vehicles offer excellent visibility and photographic opportunities.
We return to camp in the early afternoon to relax by the swimming pool and leisure area overlooking a water hole frequented by hippo and other wildlife. In the late afternoon, you have the option to join another sunset game drive in the private wildlife concession area for a scenic sunset and wildlife spotting after dark when nocturnal animals come out. (Booking is essential and subject to availability.)
Day 35 of our Southern Africa Overland Tour gets off to a leisurely start with breakfast at camp. Then we make our way out of the park to travel along the scenic Panorama Route. The drive climbs the hills and takes us along the edge of the scenic Drakensberg Escarpment and the dramatic Blyde River Canyon, one of the world’s largest ‘green’ canyons. We take a leisurely route, stopping to admire the views along the way. Panorama Route highlights include the eroded rock formations of Bourke’s Luck Potholes in the river that runs through the base of the canyon. We stop at God’s Window lookout to take in the magnificent views of the Lowveld of Mpumalanga stretching into the distance below, while another lookout offers sweeping panoramic views over the impressive Blyde River Canyon and the hut-shaped hills known as the ‘Three Rondavels’ on the slopes opposite.
Returning from our Panorama Route exploration, you have another opportunity to take an optional sundowner game drive before we have dinner and unwind around the campfire in the private concession area inside Kruger National Park.
On our final day, we bid farewell to the African bush and make our way along the old gold prospectors’ route, back to Johannesburg, where our epic Southern Africa Overland Tour ends.
We recommend booking your incoming and onward flights at least one day before and after this Southern Africa Overland Tour is scheduled. It is advisable to arrive the day before departure from Cape Town and fly out the day after the overland tour ends in Johannesburg to allow for delays and changes.
Simply ask your friendly travel advisor to add pre-tour and post-tour accommodation to your safari booking.
This Camping Overland Tour is also available as a Lodge Overland Tour, which follows the same itinerary and stays at comfortable lodges instead of camping.
This tour combines two styles of our tours, being a standard overland camping tour and a small group tour. Therefore, this tour operates on two vehicle types: a 20-seater overland safari truck and a comfortable12-seater mini-bus.
Victoria Falls to Johannesburg: Flight.(Please note that this flight is not included in your tour price and should be booked directly with your chosen airline) .
For more details, contact African Budget Safaris
For up-to-date and confirmed pricing info for optional items, please drop us an enquiry.
This tour does take children.
There is a minimum age limit of 8 years of age, for travellers on scheduled departures, however, children aged 8 and 9 years of age are accepted on a request basis only.
A maximum of 4 children, aged between 10 - 15 years will be allowed per 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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