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Okavango Elephants, Moremi Botswana

36 Day Cape Town to Zanzibar Lodge Overland Tour

Tour Length36 days
Priced from pps $10234 R166150 £7592 8791 A$14244 C$14147 NZ$17253 Full pricing info
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Summary of this Lodge African Overland Tour

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  • Max. Group Size 20 Travellers
  • Departs from Cape Town, South Africa
  • Ends at Stone Town, Tanzania
  • Accommodation Lodge / Safari Lodge
  • Transport Large Overland Vehicle / 4x4 Vehicle / Boat / Ferry
  • Wildlife Big 5, Elephant, Exceptional Birding, Leopards, Lions, Rhino & More
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Quick Itinerary Overview

An epic 5-week journey from Cape Town, through scenic South African landscapes, Orange River crossing into Namibia. See the magnificent Fish River Canyon and the ancient Namib desert. Enjoy Swakopmund seaside adventures and premium Etosha wildlife. Then, we will go to Botswana’s legendary Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve, surreal Makgadigadi Pans, and a game-viewing boat cruise on the Chobe River.

Visit majestic Victoria Falls, experience the unspoiled wilds & wildlife of South Luangwa in Zambia, relax on the shores of Lake Malawi, and travel through the Great Africa Rift Valley and scenic Tanzania Southern Highlands. Relax on the idyllic beaches of Zanzibar, the spice island, and explore historic Stone Town where this Africa Overland Safari will end. Accommodated in comfortable lodges and luxury tented safari camps.

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: Cape Town to Cederberg Region – South Africa

Our epic Cape Town to Zanzibar Lodge Safari leaves Cape Town on the morning of Day 1. 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.

We make a last stop on the outskirts of the city to look back at the iconic view of Table Mountain from across Table Bay. We then head north, through farmlands and past farm stalls that dot the road. Sweeping fields give way to towering mountains as we reach the Cedarberg region with the beautiful Cederberg Mountains known for their dramatic rock formations, unique sandstone cliffs, and ancient San rock art. There are over 130 named peaks, the highest being Sneeuberg at 2,026 meters (6,646 feet). This is also home to the indigenous Rooibos plant, prized as a herbal tea known internationally as Red Bush tea.

Our first lodge lies outside the town of Citrusdal at the foot of the mountains. We will be treated to a hearty traditional meal this evening as our guide briefs us on the adventure ahead.

  • Meals included: Dinner

Day 2: Citrusdal to Namaqualand & Orange River – Namibia

Our journey continues northwards, following the Cederberg mountains. Eventually, the landscape flattens as we reach the dry Northern Cape Province. Here, our route takes us through the Namaqualand, renowned for its breathtaking springtime wildflowers (typically August/September), when vibrant blooms burst into flower on the otherwise arid landscape. We make a brief stop for supplies in the dusty town of Springbok before heading to the Orange River, the border between South Africa and Namibia.

After border formalities are complete, we make our way to the Namibia riverbank of the Orange River, where we will stay overnight.

  • Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Orange River to Fish River Canyon & Keetmanshoop – Namibia

Our Overland Tour has an easy start this morning, allowing you the option to take a canoe trip on the river. The Orange River, known as the Gariep in the indigenous KhoeKhoe language, is the longest river in South Africa, originating in the mountains of landlocked Lesotho. Enjoy the rocks, dramatic desert landscapes and occasional wildlife as you gently glide through the water.

After lunch, we climb back on the overland truck and head inland to the Fish River Canyon, one of the largest canyons in the world. 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 spend the night.

  • Included Activities: Scenic Walk along the rim of the Fish River Canyon
  • Optional Activity: Orange River Canoe Trip
  • Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4: Keetmanshoop to Namib Desert – Namibia

The day begins with a visit to the Quiver Tree Forest near Keetmanshoop, which earned the status of a national monument in 1995. It boasts around 250 quiver tree specimens ranging from 200 to 300 years old, making distinct silhouettes against the rugged landscape. Then we head nearby to explore the Giants Playground, a surreal terrain adorned with stacks of unique dolerite boulders dating back approximately 160 to 180 million years ago that look as if they have been left by giants at play

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 lodge is situated just at the edge of the Namib National Park. The lodge also boasts a refreshing swimming pool and a bar, so you can unwind and take a dip to wash off the desert dust.

  • Included Activities: Quiver Tree Forest & Giants Playground
  • Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Sossusvlei Dunes (Namib-Naukluft National Park) – Namibia

A full day of desert adventures awaits. We hop onto our safari vehicle and head into Namib-Naukluft National Park, one of Africa's largest national parks. The national park incorporates large swathes of the Namib Desert - the world's oldest desert.

First, we transfer to Dune 45, where you have the chance to climb up the iconic dune for amazing views over the stark desert and great photo opportunities. Back at the foot of the dune, we enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading deeper into the desert. We then take a 4x4 transfer to Sossusvlei and Deadvlei, in the Namib-Naukluft National Park. Explore the dry pans on foot, absorbing the dramatic scenes of skeletal trees on the pale pan floors, surrounded by orange-hued dunes.

After surveying the sea of red-orange dunes, we leave the Namib-Naukluft Park, stopping at Sesriem Canyon to see the ancient sedimentary rock layers of the narrow gorge before continuing back to the lodge. Tonight, we soak up the stars and stillness at our desert lodge after a full day of admiring the stark landscapes of the Namib.

  • Included Activity: Hike up Dune 45, 4x4 Transfer to Sossusvlei & Deadvlei & Sesriem Canyon
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Days 6 & 7: Namib Desert to Swakopmund – Namibia

Before our departure this morning, a knowledgeable local guide takes us on a guided desert walk through this starkly beautiful ecosystem to learn more about the flora and fauna of the Namib and the incredible survival techniques of the desert fauna & flora.

Our Overland Tour then continues north through the desert, crossing the Tropic of Capricorn, where we stop to take a picture to mark the occasion. We are then headed for the coastline where the icy Atlantic Ocean meets the hot desert sands. We make our way up the coast to the seaside town of Swakopmund, where we will stay for two nights in a comfortable, centrally located hotel. Tonight, we’ll enjoy an optional dinner out at a local restaurant.

Your time on day seven is free to explore this quaint town with its German Colonial influences and enjoy the many coffee shops and bakeries that offer a delightful range of German-inspired treats. This is the adventure capital of Namibia, and there are plenty of adventure activities on offer. Go sandboarding or quad biking on the dunes, try skydiving or take a dolphin cruise on the ocean. Otherwise, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the seafront or explore the markets and historical sites on foot.

  • Included Activity: Tropic of Capricorn, Guided Desert Walk (Day 6)
  • Optional activities: Local Restaurant Dinner (Day 6), Quad biking, Sandboarding, Skydiving, Dolphin Cruise, and more (Day 7)
  • Meals: Breakfast & Lunch (Day 6), Breakfast (Day 7)

Day 8: Swakopmund to Brandberg – Namibia

Our Cape Town to Zanzibar Tour continues up the Namibia coastline, where hot desert sands meet the cold waves of the Atlantic Ocean. We’ll stop at the charming desert seaside village of Wlotskasbaken, with its picturesque cottages and the ocean & desert backdrop providing a perfect photo opportunity. Then we head to the nearby Lichen Fields, where a guide will tell you more about the curious Lichen colonies and how these peculiar organisms flourish in extreme climates such as this, thanks to the moisture from the frequent sea fog characteristics of this coastline.

We then leave the coast behind and head inland to the Brandberg Mountains, the highest peaks in Namibia. This area is rich in ancient rock art, including the famous White Lady painting. Join your guide for a two-hour return hike along the dry Tsisab Riverbed, where you’ll explore both the unique geology of the area and ancient rock art, some of which dates back over 2,000 years. (This hike could take place early tomorrow morning.) We will stay overnight at a nearby lodge for a restful evening.

  • Included Activity: Wlotskabaken Stop, Lichen Fields Visit, Brandberg Hike & Rock Art with your guide
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 9: Brandberg to Etosha National Park – Namibia

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 resort near Etosha, anticipating our exciting day in Etosha National Park tomorrow.

  • Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Days 10 & 11: Etosha National Park - Namibia

Over the next two days, 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.

  • Included Activity: Full-day game drive in the overland tour vehicle (day 10), Afternoon game drive in the overland truck (day 11)
  • Optional Activity: Full-day 4x4 safari in Etosha. (Overland truck game drive will be forfeited)
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (x2)

Day 12: Etosha to Divundu - Namibia

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 lodge near the Kavango River in Divundu.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 13: Divundu - Namibia

This morning, we begin our day drifting along the tranquil waters of the Kavango River on a leisurely boat cruise, surrounded by lush riverbanks alive with birdsong and the possibility of spotting hippos wallowing or crocodiles basking in the shallows. Later in the afternoon, there’s the option to join a game drive in Mahangu National Park, a hidden treasure where peaceful landscapes meet exhilarating wildlife encounters, from herds of elephants and buffalo to antelope grazing gracefully, and perhaps even the rare sight of a big cat.

  • Included Activities: Morning Boat Cruise
  • Optional Activity: Game Drive in Mahangu National Park
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 14: Divundu to Maun – Botswana

On day 14, we leave Namibia and board the overland truck for our drive to the Botswana border post. Once border formalities are complete, our drive takes us through the Okavango Delta backroads to the bustling town of Maun, gateway for visitors coming to explore the magnificent Okavango Delta.

  • Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 15: Maun to Khwai Conservation Area (Okavango Delta) – Botswana

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.

  • Included Activity: Sunset Mokoro Trip (The mokoro excursion may run on an alternative day depending on season/water levels.)
  • Optional Activity: Okavango Delta Scenic Flight (Pre-bookable)
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 16: Moremi Game Reserve (Okavango Delta) – Botswana

Today, our overland adventure is devoted to exploring the unique ecosystem of the Okavango Delta by 4x4 Safari vehicle. We will enjoy a full day game drive in Moremi Game Reserve in the heart of the delta, named after Chief Moremi of the BaTawana tribe, who established the reserve in 1963 to safeguard their delta homeland from unregulated hunting and cattle encroachment. This makes Moremi one of the earliest reserves in Africa founded by local residents.

Our drive takes us past palm-fringed islands and open grasslands, bordered by winding waterways, lagoons, and papyrus swamps, in search of a diverse array of wildlife. Keep a lookout for the creatures that cross our path, from the renowned Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros) to giraffes, cheetahs, zebras, various antelope species such as the red lechwe (specially adapted for marshy conditions), hyenas, jackals, and the endangered African Wild Dog. The park also boasts a rich assortment of bird species, making it a haven for bird enthusiasts.

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

Day 17: Khwai to Maun & Nata (Makgadigadi Pans) – Botswana

Our Africa Overland Tour departs early this morning, back through the Delta landscapes to join our truck in Maun. Then, we’re on the road again, our long journey passing arid plains interrupted only by the occasional acacia tree towards the expansive Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, where the surreal scenery feels as if you've stepped onto another planet. The fascinating Makgadikgadi Pans were formed by the evaporation of an enormous ancient lake, leaving behind one of the world’s largest salt flats. It is an awe-inspiring landscape – a surreal sea of white that magically transforms into a lush, wildlife-rich oasis during the wet season. The salt pans viewpoint/pans experience is dependent on the season. We will overnight at a comfortable safari lodge in Nata.

  • Included Activity: Salt pans viewpoint/pans experience (seasonal access dependent
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

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

Today we depart the pans and head towards Kasane, a vibrant town on the south bank of the Chobe River, where Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe almost intersect. We will arrive in time for lunch and have time to settle into our comfortable safari resort.

This afternoon, we embark on a boat cruise along the Chobe River. From the water, we get up close to plenty of wild animals such as hippos, antelopes, buffalo, crocodiles, and elephants. Our boat-based game viewing provides excellent photographic opportunities for capturing the birds and wildlife attracted to the Chobe River in Chobe National Park. Enjoy a spectacular vista as the sun sets over the Chobe River.

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

Day 19: Kasane to Victoria Falls – Zimbabwe

It is time to say goodbye to Botswana as we embark on our next border crossing on our overland tour, into Zimbabwe. Entering Zimbabwe this morning, we drive to Victoria Falls town, home to the largest waterfall in the world.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Victoria Falls, is one of the most unforgettable natural spectacles in Africa - an absolute must-see! Today you have free time to visit the Falls and experience the 'Smoke that Thunders' as translated from the local name, Mosi-oa-Tunya – feel the roar of the river and stroll through the rain forest created by the resulting spray. In addition to visiting the spectacular Victoria Falls, you can jump straight into one of the thrilling adventure activities (optional extra) this afternoon or take it easy, exploring the local craft markets and coffee shops.

This evening, you can join the group for an optional dinner at a local restaurant. It’s a relaxed way to enjoy good food, unwind, and swap stories from the day. Your guide will organise the booking if you’d like to join.

Our overnight accommodation is at a comfortable lodge/guesthouse in Victoria Falls. We stay in twin rooms with en-suite bathrooms.

  • Included Activity: Simunye Theatre Show
  • Optional Activities: Chobe National Park Game Drive (pre-bookable), Group Dinner
  • Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 20: Livingstone (Victoria Falls) – Zambia

Tonight, we stay at a lodge near Livingstone, on the Zambia side of Victoria Falls. A transfer from Victoria Falls Village to Livingstone is included in your tour price – you can choose a morning transfer (8:00 am) or an afternoon transfer (4:00 pm), depending on your plans for the day. The day is free to relax at the lodge or enjoy more of the activities on offer.

  • Optional Activities: Victoria Falls National Park Entry, Historical Bridge Tour, Helicopter Flight over the Falls, Bungy Jumping, Bridge Swing, Sunset Boat Cruise, Guided Tour of the Falls, Chobe Day Trip (Pre-bookable, min numbers may apply to activities
  • Meals: Breakfast

Day 21: Livingstone to Lusaka – Zambia

Departing early from Livingstone, we get a final glimpse of the magnificent Victoria Falls before we embark on a long day’s drive through rural Zambia. We overnight just south of Zambia's capital city, Lusaka. Our Safari Camp is a shady oasis surrounded by natural bush where you may encounter animals such as impala, giraffe, zebra and fantastic birdlife!

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 22: Lusaka to Petauke – Zambia

Day 22 sees our Overland Lodge Safari head east along Zambia's Great East Road, through Zambia’s busy capital Lusaka, past villages and over the bridge spanning the Luangwa River, a significant engineering feat in Zambia's colonial era due to its challenging geography. We continue our journey, passing rural villages and farming communities to the town of Petauke, where we will spend the night at a comfortable lodge.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Days 23 & 24: Petauke to South Luangwa National Park – Zambia

Our Africa Overland Tour heads to the wilds of South Luangwa National Park today. We make a stop at Mulberry Mongoose, where exceptional handcrafted jewelry is crafted by local women of Zambia's South Luangwa Valley using organic materials procured locally - this is an important cotton growing region, and the ladies even use repurposed wire from poacher traps acquired from local conservation groups.

The next two nights of our overland adventure will be spent in luxury tents at a tented camp on the banks of the great Luangwa River, with breathtaking views of wallowing hippos and birds and wildlife passing by. As the day draws to a close, savor a sundowner drink and enjoy a magnificent sunset over the river.

Day 24 is dedicated to immersing ourselves in the wonders of South Luangwa National Park. Early risers have the option to either partake in an optional morning game drive in the park or, during the dry season from April to December, join one of the park's renowned walking safaris that were pioneered here. Take a walk through the bush accompanied by a knowledgeable guide and armed ranger to get up close to the sights and sounds of this incredible place.

After a relaxed lunch and a leisurely afternoon, we'll embark on a sunset game drive through South Luangwa National Park, keeping a lookout for the "Big Four" - elephants, leopards, lions, and Cape buffalo (sadly, the park does not have any rhinos as they were poached to extinction). South Luangwa is particularly renowned for its high density of leopards, providing ample opportunities to spot these elusive creatures. Lions, spotted hyenas, and wild dogs, which reappeared in the park in 2015, are the main predators you can expect to encounter, together with a variety of antelopes including impalas, pukus, and waterbucks, and giraffes wandering the open plains. We pause for leisurely sundowners along the way, and the journey back to camp in the fading light offers a chance to spot elusive nocturnal creatures that are typically concealed during daylight hours.

  • 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

Days 25 & 26: South Luangwa to Ngala Beach (Lake Malawi Central) – Malawi

Today, our epic Cape Town to Zanzibar Safari heads to the next country on our journey: Malawi, the "Warm Heart of Africa". After completing border formalities, we head towards magnificent Lake Malawi, third largest and second deepest lake in the Great African Rift Valley. It boasts a remarkable diversity of freshwater fish, including numerous species of the indigenous cichlid fish. Our campsite for the next two nights is situated in the historic town of Ngala Beach, right on the shores of the lake. This region enjoys a pleasant climate for swimming throughout the year, so jump right in and take a refreshing dip or leisurely stroll down the sandy beach.

Day 26 has no scheduled activities, allowing you to unwind on the sandy shores of Lake Malawi, explore, and engage in some of the optional experiences. Popular optional activities include paddle skiing, kayaking, horseback riding, and snorkeling. The crystal-clear and warm waters of this vast African Rift Valley lake make it an ideal location for snorkeling, providing an opportunity to observe the vividly colored cichlid fish popular in aquariums worldwide. Take a motorboat ride, go bird watching, or hike with a local guide to the nearby Dwanbazi Waterfall with a breath-taking panorama view from the summit.

  • Optional Activities: Kayaking, Snorkeling, Waterfall Hike, Golf, Fishing, and more
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (x2)

Day 27: Ngala to Chitimba (Northern Lake Malawi) – Malawi

Today we are back on the road for most of the day, travelling further north, and will overnight once again on the banks of Lake Malawi. We stop at one of the fishing villages dotted along the shores of Lake Malawi, where your guide will accompany you through the village on foot, gaining valuable insights into how Malawians go about their daily lives. We reach our lodge near the village of Chitimba in the late afternoon. Unwind in a hammock and savor the sight of the sun setting over the lake while enjoying a refreshing drink.

  • Included Activity: Malawi Village Tour
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 28: Lake Malawi to Mbeya Mountains – Tanzania

Today, we bid Lake Malawi farewell as we make our way north to our next African destination, Tanzania. Our route takes us into the scenic Mbeya Mountain range of Southern Tanzania, which is the main hub for coffee cultivation. Tanzania is known for producing some of the finest coffee beans in the region.

Tonight, we stay in a comfortable bungalow on the misty hillsides of a thriving coffee plantation, allowing you to immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of this mountainous region.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 29: Mbeya to Iringa (Southern Highlands) – Tanzania

Our day begins with a tour of a local coffee plantation, where you can see the process of growing and harvesting coffee beans. Afterwards will be able to sample some of the delicious brews for yourself.

We then ascend the Great Rift Valley and make our way further into Tanzania. The drive takes us over some spectacular mountain passes, past tea plantations which thrive in the cooler climate of the Southern Tanzania Highlands. Our campsite for the night lies just outside the town of Iringa which boasts sweeping views of rolling hills and verdant valley of the Little Ruaha River below.

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

Days 30 & 31: Iringa to Mikumi – Tanzania

Our Africa Overland Tour continues east to the doorstep of Mikumi National Park, known for its sweeping Mkata Floodplains, distinctive baobabs, and varied wildlife. En-route we have a quick stop in Baobab Valley, a beautiful valley dotted with ancient, towering baobab trees that cast dramatic silhouettes against the African savannah backdrop. This makes a perfect setting for a group picture.

Our next lodge is located on the outskirts of Mikumi National Park, part of a vast 75,000 square kilometer (29,000 square mile) protected wilderness shared with the adjoining Selous Game Reserve. The park is especially known for its big cats – lions and the elusive leopards – attracted to the huge herds of grazing herbivores on the plains. Other animals to be spotted include elephants, giraffes, hippos, buffaloes, zebras, and wildebeests. While the park is also home to both white and black rhinos, sightings are rare. We stay at the lodge for two nights. You are free to relax by the pool or book some optional activities like Mikumi Safari game drives or a choice of cultural tours.

  • Optional Activity: Safari game drive in Mikumi National Park, Cultural Tours
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 32: Mikumi to Dar es Salaam – Tanzania

Our Cape Town to Zanzibar Overland Tour continues east, through the picturesque Uluguru Mountains and on to the Indian Ocean coastline and vibrant port city of Dar es Salaam, where we'll be spending the night in a centrally located hotel.

The name Dar es Salaam translates to 'house of peace' in Arabic. Despite Dodoma being the official capital city, Dar es Salaam serves as Tanzania's commercial and trade hub and is a lively melting pot of African, Arab, and European cultures. The rest of the day is free to explore the city’s bustling markets, diverse eateries, and lively nightlife. We are set to leave bright and early tomorrow for our ferry ride to exotic Zanzibar Island.

  • Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 33: Dar es Salaam to Stone Town, Zanzibar – Tanzania

We make an early start to catch the ferry for our two-hour crossing to captivating Stone Town, which serves as the principal harbor of the enchanting spice island of Zanzibar. Historic Stone Town was once a main hub on the Swahili trade routes for spice, silk, and slaves for centuries. It is a rich tapestry of Arab, Persian, Indian, European, and Swahili influences.

Our accommodation for the night is a comfortable hotel in the heart of Stone Town. The rest of the day is yours to explore the labyrinthine network of narrow, winding streets. Around each corner is something new to discover – intricate balconies, coral buildings adorned with elaborate details, and the iconic carved wooden doors that are a hallmark of Zanzibari architecture. Stroll through bustling markets where you can find everything from fresh produce to locally crafted treasures, a fusion of bright colors and flavors. Enjoy the many restaurants offering beautifully fresh seafood flavored with the many spices cultivated on the island. The Forodhani Gardens come alive in the evening with a street food market, boasting a myriad of food stalls offering a tantalizing array of local delights, from seafood kebabs to Zanzibari-style pizzas.

  • Included Activities: Zanzibar Island Ferry
  • Meals: Breakfast

Days 34 & 35: Stone Town to Zanzibar Beaches – Tanzania

Day 34 begins with a walking tour of Stone Town, where your guide will point out well-known landmarks, including the birthplace of Freddy Mercury. We are then collected for a road transfer to our beach resort in Nungwi where we will stay for two blissful nights.

On the way, we stop for a spice tour, a guided walk through a local village and its spice plantations. Here you will see how the island produces its exotic spices like cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, cardamom, black pepper, and vanilla. Witness first-hand how farmers climb the trees to seek them out. You will also have the opportunity to purchase fresh spices directly.

Once settled into your Nungwi beach accommodation, you will have time to relax and unwind on the beautiful beaches and their crystal-clear turquoise waters. Soak up the sun, go swimming, or try one of the many optional activities on offer. Explore the vibrant coral reefs and a diverse array of marine life snorkelling or diving, luxuriate with a spa treatment, sail on a traditional wooden dhow, take a Swahili cooking class, book a guided tour around the island, or hire a bicycle or scooter to explore for yourself.

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

Day 36: Zanzibar Beaches to Stone Town – Tanzania

Sadly, it is time to bid farewell to the blissful Zanzibar Beaches after breakfast this morning and return to Stone Town, where this fantastic Africa Overland Tour comes to an end.

Please note: You can choose to conclude your tour at the Nungwi accommodation or transfer with the group to the ferry port in Stone Town.

  • Meals: Breakfast

Overland Tour Notes

We recommend booking your incoming and onward flights at least one day before and after this Cape Town to Zanzibar Safari 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 Stone Town 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 northbound Cape Town to Zanzibar Overland Tour is also available in the opposite direction as the Zanzibar to Cape Town Overland Tour - South, starting in Nungwi and ending in Cape Town.

This Lodge Overland Tour is also available as a Camping Overland Tour - Cape Town to Zanzibar Overland Camping Safari which follows the same itinerary and accommodation is camping at campsites rather than staying in lodges.

For more details, contact African Budget Safaris

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+Where does the tour go to?
+Included in the Tour Price
  • Twin-share lodge accommodation in en-suite rooms
  • Qualified safari crew
  • All meals (as per itinerary)
  • Safari activities (as per itinerary)
  • Entry fees to national parks
+Not Included in the Tour Price
  • Personal items & souvenirs
  • Snacks & drinks (alcohol, bottled water & soft drinks)
  • Optional activities & entrance fees
  • Flights & visas
  • Travel insurance
+Departure Dates

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1. Zanzibar, Tanzania

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