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16 Day Zanzibar to Victoria Falls Africa Overland Camping…

Tour Length16 days
Priced from pps $2397 R45450 £1884 2205 A$3656 C$3245 NZ$3942 Full pricing info
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Summary of this Camping Overland Tour

  • Max. Group Size 20 Travellers
  • Departs from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
  • Ends at Livingstone, Zambia
  • Accommodation Standard Camping
  • Transport Large Overland Vehicle / Open 4x4 Game Viewing Vehicle / Ferry
  • Wildlife Elephant, Exceptional Birding, Leopards, Lions & More
  •  See Departure Dates

Quick Itinerary Overview

This Zanzibar to Victoria Falls Africa Overland Tour sets off from Dar es Salaam, taking you to idyllic Zanzibar Island before returning to explore southern Tanzania highlands and Mikumi National Park. Then we cross the border into Malawi to spend three blissful days relaxing on the sandy beaches of Lake Malawi, exploring the local culture, hiking, swimming, and snorkeling in the tropical lake. Moving on to Zambia to venture into the untamed South Luangwa National Park, home to an abundance of wildlife and birds. Journey through the Zambezi River Valley before ending at one of the natural wonders of the world - Victoria Falls in Livingstone.

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 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.

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Itinerary for this Tour

Day 1 & 2: Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar Island Beach Resort - Tanzania

This adventure-packed Africa Overland Tour begins in Dar es Salaam, bustling port city on the coast of Tanzania. After meeting your overland crew and fellow travelers, we catch the Zanzibar ferry, an exciting start to our two-week journey through three African countries.

The local ferry takes us to Stone Town, main port town of Zanzibar Island. Arriving in Stone Town, we are transferred to our hotel on the eastern side of the island where we will stay for two nights. Settle in and kick off your shoes for some laid-back beach time.

Day 2 of our overland tour is free for you to explore exotic Zanzibar Island at your leisure. Spend the day relaxing on white sand beaches and soak up the sun. There are also a host of activities on offer, from snorkeling and fishing to scuba diving and sailing on a traditional wooden dhow, the boats that have plied the Swahili coast for centuries. Explore the islands on a guided trip or rent a scooter and set off on your own. Visit the colobus monkeys in Jozani Forest or take a cooking lesson. Zanzibar is renowned for its idyllic tropical beaches, so unwind in paradise and enjoy the warm azure Indian Ocean waters.

  • Included Activity: Zanzibar Island Trip (including ferry)
  • Optional Activities: Dhow Sailing Trips, Scuba Diving, Snorkelling, Turtle Sanctuary Visits, Village Tours, Jozani Forest, and more.
  • Meals: Lunch & Dinner (day 1) & Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (Day 2)

Day 3: Stone Town, Zanzibar Island – Tanzania

Today we journey back to historic and fascinating Stone Town, once a major port on the slave and spice trade routes. Along the way, we stop near a local village for a Spice Tour. We are guided on a walking tour of a local spice plantation to learn about the Zanzibar spice trade and see how spices like nutmeg, cloves, cardamom, and black pepper are grown and harvested. You also get the chance to buy some fresh spices from the local farms.

After our spice tour, we continue west to Stone Town where we spend our final night on Zanzibar Island at a comfortable centrally located hotel. Your guide will lead you on a walk through the narrow streets of the old quarter of Stone Town to see popular landmarks and hear about the diverse cultures, fascinating history, and unique architecture of Zanzibar. See the birthplace of one of Zanzibar’s most famous sons, Queen singer Freddy Mercury. The rest of the day is yours to explore this fascinating place and try some of the varied cuisine on offer.

  • Included Activity: Spice Tour, Stone Town Waling Tour
  • Meals: Breakfast

Day 4: Stone Town to Dar es Salaam

This morning there is still some time for a final exploration of Stone Town on Zanzibar Island as we await the ferry for our journey back to Dar es Salaam. We spend the night in a comfortable, centrally located hotel in Dar (as it is fondly called) and you have the rest of the day free to explore this vibrant city and enjoy some of its diverse cuisine. You can savor traditional Tanzanian dishes, international cuisine, and fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants. Dar es Salaam has a range of markets where you can shop for local crafts, textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs. Popular markets include Kariakoo Market and Mwenge Woodcarvers Market.

  • Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 5: Dar es Salaam to Mikumi National Park – Tanzania

Today we board our overland safari truck and bid farewell to the balmy Indian Ocean coastline. Our budget camping safari heads inland to the outskirts of Mikumi National Park, one of the largest game parks in Tanzania. Mikumi National Park is an integral part of the vast 75,000 square kilometers (30,000 square miles) Nyerere (Selous Game Reserve) wilderness ecosystem and boasts a rich diversity of wildlife, including lions, zebras, wildebeests, impalas, buffalos, elephants, and over 400 species of birds. You have the option to take an afternoon game drive in Mikumi National Park (at your own expense). The sweeping Mkata Floodplains are dotted with large herds of herbivores grazing on the lush vegetation.

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

Day 6: Mikumi National Park to Iringa – Tanzania

On Day 6 of our Africa Overland Tour, we continue our journey inland, over the rolling hills and rocky escarpments of the Southern Tanzania Highlands. We stop to admire a baobab forest and take some group photos with these iconic trees silhouetted in the background. Our destination for the night is a campsite on a farm just outside the historic town of Iringa, on the hillsides overlooking the Ruaha River Valley. The landscape changes dramatically with the seasons, from lush greenery during the wet season to the golden savannah grasses in the dry season. Lying at 1,550 meters (5,000 feet) above sea level, Iringa can get quite cool between June and August. This pleasant town features old German colonial buildings and a popular market, as well as a memorial to soldiers who died in local battles during the world wars.

  • Included Activity: Baobab Valley Visit
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7: Iringa to Mbeya – Tanzania

Day 7 of our Zanzibar to Victoria Falls Camping Safari takes us deeper into the Tanzania Highlands, through rolling tea plantations and into the Mbeya Mountains. Mbeya is one of the major coffee-growing regions of Tanzania and this afternoon we visit a coffee plantation to see how coffee beans are grown and harvested. You get to sample brews of the delicious coffee beans for yourself. Our next overnight stay is at a scenic campsite on a coffee plantation in the Mbeya mountains.

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

Day 8: Mbeya to Northern Lake Malawi – Malawi

Leaving the lush highlands of Tanzania, our Africa Overland Tour heads down into the Great Rift Valley and crosses into Malawi, the next country on our epic adventure. For the next three nights we will stay on the shores of Lake Malawi, fondly known as 'the Lake of Stars' due to the flickering lights of the fishing boats out on the vast lake at night. Third largest Africa Rift Valley Lake and one of the deepest, Lake Malawi stretches 580 kilometers (360 miles) from north to south, covering about 75% of Malawi's eastern border. This afternoon we reach our lakeside campsite in Chitimba in the northern part of the lake. Stroll along the shores of Lake Malawi and take your first dip in the crystal-clear waters.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 9 & 10: Ngala Beach (Central Lake Malawi) – Malawi

On Day 9 we travel further south along Lake Malawi. There are many fishing villages dotted along the shores of this vast lake and we will stop at one of the villages to see more. Your guide will lead a walking tour through the village, gaining insight into rural life in Africa as the local Malawians go about their daily lives. Our next lovely campsite is set on the shores of historic Ngala beach in central Lake Malawi. End the day off with a cool drink and a sunset stroll along the shores, or a swim in the lake.

There are no scheduled activities for Day 10 of our Africa Overland Tour, leaving you free to enjoy balmy Lake Malawi. The beautiful clarity of the water makes snorkeling a popular activity, getting to appreciate the delicate balance of life beneath the lake surface. There are over 1,000 species of brilliantly coloured tropical cichlids, tiny fish often found in colourful aquariums around the world. Otherwise, explore the waters on a kayak, embark on an optional motorboat trip, do some bird watching, volunteer, or go hiking to a waterfall in the nearby forest reserve. You can also take a stroll along the lake, passing fishing villages along the way for some laid-back exploration.

  • Included Activity: Malawi Village Tour with your guide
  • Optional Activities: Snorkeling, Kayaking, Horse Riding, Hiking, Volunteering, and more.
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (x2)

Day 11 & 12: Lake Malawi to South Luangwa National Park – Zambia

Wake up to a last serene sunrise over Lake Malawi before we set off for the wild South Luangwa National Park in neighboring Zambia. Crossing into Zambia we pause in the town of Chipata before continuing to our tented camp beside the Luangwa River. Hippos and other birds & animals are commonly spotted from the camp bar, so keep an eye open as we sit back with sundowners and watch a glowing sunset over the river.

Day 12 of our Africa Overland Camping Tour from Zanzibar to Victoria Falls, is set aside for game viewing in the unspoiled South Luangwa National Park. Early risers may embark on an optional walking safari, a practice pioneered in South Luangwa and only available during the dry season. Led by knowledgeable guides, you get close to the sights and sounds of the African bush as they lead you on a leisurely walk while pointing out animal tracks and telling you more about the park's flora and fauna. Catch a glimpse of elephants, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species, while bird enthusiasts will delight in the park's over 400 bird species. If you're visiting out of season, an optional morning game drive is available instead.

In the late afternoon, we will embark on a sunset game drive, in search of the abundant wildlife that inhabits South Luangwa. The park hosts 4 of the illustrious Big 5: lions, elephants, buffalos, and leopards (rhinos are sadly absent). Additionally, you are sure to encounter hippos, Nile crocodiles, warthogs, pukus, impalas, spotted hyenas, greater kudus, and elands. Unique to the Luangwa Valley are Thornicroft's giraffes, Cookson's wildebeests, and Crawshay's zebras, found nowhere else. We pause for sundowners, drink in hand relishing the spectacle of animals grazing on the plains as the setting sun paints a breathtaking canvas. Our game drive will continue into the evening, when we hope to catch a glimpse of the elusive nocturnal creatures that thrive in South Luangwa, particularly leopards that call this park home.

  • Included Activity: Sunset Game Drive in South Luangwa National Park
  • Optional Activities: Morning Game Drive or Bush Walk in South Luangwa
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner x2

Day 13: South Luangwa to Petauke – Zambia

We leave South Luangwa Valley today taking a relatively short drive through to the town of Petauke. En route, we stop at a local craft initiative, the Mulberry Mongoose, where women from the surrounding area craft stylish accessories from locally sourced materials. Jewelry is even made from wire retrieved from poachers’ snares. Our destination for tonight is a campsite in the small town of Petauke.

  • Included Activity: Mulberry Mongoose Visit
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 14 & 15: Petuake to Chirundu – Zambia

Today our Africa Overland Tour takes us west along the Great East Road, the main artery of Southern Zambia. We cross the bridge over the Luangwa River and make a stop near the bridge to visit the vibrant Luangwa Market. This local market is a feast of color, with brightly hued textiles, fruits, vegetables, and crafts on display. Interact with locals, sample traditional foods, and purchase unique handcrafted items. Our stop for the next two nights is a campsite on the banks of the Kafue River, close to the town of Chirundu and only 6 kilometers (4 miles) to where it merges with the mighty Zambezi River.

Here you are free to swim in the camp pool, relax on the deck and watch the views across Kafue River, or take to the river on a canoe. There are several optional adventures available. The Zambezi River is home to various fish species, including the famous tigerfish which is on the bucket list of sport fishing enthusiasts from around the world. Take in the magnificent wildlife of the mighty Zambezi on a relaxing River Safari. Join a half-day excursion through a Baobab Forest or hike to a nearby cave in the mountains that will reveal an array of bats and elevated views over the valley. Birders are in for a treat, particularly during the green season when you may spot the rare African Pitta, Livingstone’s flycatcher, or African broadbill. There is also the option to take a game drive in the Lower Zambezi National Park

  • Optional Activities: Tiger Fishing, Baobab Forest Excursion, Bat Cave Hike, Game Drive in Lower Zambezi National Park, Canoeing, River Safari, Birding
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner x2

Day 16: Chirundu to Livingstone (Victoria Falls) – Zambia

Last stop on our Africa Overland Camping Tour, the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls! On Day 16 we continue along the Great East Road to Livingstone, on the Zambia bank of the Zambezi River and the mighty Victoria Falls, fondly known as Mosi-ao-Tunya by locals (the Smoke that Thunders). A smoke-like spray is created by the powerful plunging waters, causing a mist to rise above the falls which is visible many miles away.

Our epic Overland Camping Safari ends upon arrival in Livingstone, Victoria Falls.

While you are here, don't miss the chance to visit the world-famous Victoria Falls. This is a must-see natural wonder of the world. Witnessing the Zambezi River plummet over 100 feet into the gorge below is an awe-inspiring experience. We recommend spending a few extra days at Victoria Falls after this overland tour to do justice to this natural wonder of the world and try some of the unforgettable adventure activities on offer! This part of the Zambezi River is famous for offering some of the best Whitewater Rafting rapids in the world. Other optional adventures include helicopter and microlight flights for an aerial perspective of falls, or for the adventurous try a zip-line ride, swim in Devil's Pool, or go bungee jumping. A sunset cruise on the Zambezi River above the falls is also a popular excursion for spotting the wildlife that come down to the river to drink.

Simply ask your friendly travel advisor to add pre-tour and post-tour accommodation to your safari booking.

  • Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Africa Overland Tour Note:

This Zanzibar to Victoria Falls Camping Tour is also available in the opposite direction - Tanzania, Malawi & Zambia Safari - Camping Overland Tour (North), starting in Livingstone and ending in Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam.

This Camping Overland Tour is also available as a Lodge Overland Tour - Zanzibar to Victoria Falls Africa Overland Lodge Safari which follows the same itinerary and stay in comfortable lodges instead of camping.

For more details contact African Budget Safaris

Optional Extras and Excursions

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

Zanzibar & Tanzania Activities

  • Dhow Sailing Trips 
  • Scuba Diving, Snorkelling
  • Turtle Sanctuary visit
  • Village Tours
  • Game Drive in Mikumi National Park

Malawi Activities

  • Snorkelling
  • Hiking
  • Watersports
  • Village visits
  • Volunteering

Zambia Activities

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

Zimbabwe Activities (post-tour)

  • Victoria Falls waterfall visit
  • Dinner Out Victoria Falls
  • Zambezi Sunset Cruise 
  • River Boarding
  • Bungee Jumping
  • Helicopter Flights
  • White Water Rafting

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

Zanzibar & Tanzania Activities

  • Dhow Sailing Trips 
  • Scuba Diving, Snorkelling
  • Turtle Sanctuary visit
  • Village Tours
  • Game Drive in Mikumi National Park

Malawi Activities

  • Snorkelling
  • Hiking
  • Watersports
  • Village visits
  • Volunteering

Zambia Activities

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

Zimbabwe Activities (post-tour)

  • Victoria Falls waterfall visit
  • Dinner Out Victoria Falls
  • Zambezi Sunset Cruise 
  • River Boarding
  • Bungee Jumping
  • Helicopter Flights
  • White Water Rafting
+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
  • Personal items and tips
  • Drinks and snacks
  • Optional activities
  • Sleeping Bag & Pillow
+Departure Dates

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

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Optional Extensions to this Tour

Victoria Falls Tour - Zimbabwe Safari Package

Priced from pps R24779 $1307 £1027 €1202 A$1993 C$1769 NZ$2149 Full pricing info
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Victoria Falls helicopter An excellent 4-day Victoria Falls Tour in Zimbabwe including hotel accommodation, a Zambezi River Sunset Cruise, canoeing trip, Chobe Park Safari, helicopter flight and village tour.

More on Victoria Falls Tour - Zimbabwe Safari Package

Optional Extensions to this Tour

Victoria Falls Tour Package - Zambia Safari Adventure

Priced from pps R25253 $1332 £1047 €1225 A$2031 C$1803 NZ$2190 Full pricing info
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Helicopter Flight - Victoria Falls Tour Package An exciting short Victoria Falls Tour Package staying at an affordable luxury hotel. Activities on this Zambia Safari Adventure include a Sunset Cruise, Canoe Trip, Chobe National Park Safari, Helicopter Flight, Victoria Falls and Village Tour.

More on Victoria Falls Tour Package - Zambia Safari Adventure

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