23 Days Johannesburg to Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar Tour

Day 1 – Johannesburg to Kalahari Gateway

Leaving behind the city of Johannesburg, we travel through the North-West Province to the Botswana border. After completing border formalities we continue on the Trans-Kalahari highway to our overnight stop.

Accommodation Kang Ultra Stop http://www.kangultralodge.com
Accommodated: Two per Room with En-suite Bathroom
Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions
Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.

Route: Johannesburg to Kang
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Border Post: Botswana Pioneer Gate Tel: +267 533 3992, Open: 06h00 – 24h00
South Africa Skilpadshek Tel: +27 0800 00 7277, Open: 06h00 – 24h00

Day 2 – Kalahari Gateway to Ghanzi

After breakfast we venture deeper into the Central Kalahari and our camp in the Ghanzi district, here we will spend time getting to know the fascinating San people. This afternoon we will join our San guides for a guided walk that will introduce us to the many secrets of their survival in the Kalahari Desert. The nomadic San are hunter-gatherers that have passed down a rich knowledge of the plants and animals that play such an important part in their lifestyle. This evening we will get a first-hand experience of the San culture, well known for its rich traditions of song, dance and story-telling.

Accommodation Dqae Qare San Lodge www.dqae.org OR Ghanzi Trail Blazers http://ghanzitrailblazers.co.bw
Accommodated: Two per Room with En-Suite Bathroom
Camping: Campsite with Shared Ablutions
Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered

Route: Kang to Ghanzi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: San Guided Walk (late afternoon) / San Evening Dance Performance

Day 3 – Maun

This morning we bid farewell to the San and make our way to Maun, gateway to the Okavango Delta. There will be time this afternoon for those who wish to enjoy an optional scenic flight over the Okavango Delta. Your guides will brief you this evening on what you will need for the upcoming Delta excursions.

Accommodation Sedia Riverside Lodge or similar. http://sedia-hotel.com/ OR Sitatunga https://www.deltarain.com/sitatunga-camp-2/
Accommodated: Two per Room with En-Suite Bathroom
Camping: Campsite with Shared Ablutions
Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.

Route: Nata to Maun
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Activity: Scenic Flight over Okavango Delta (for those guests who have not purchased the Moremi game drive)

Day 4 – Okavango Delta

The most rewarding and enjoyable way to explore and experience the beauty and serenity of this intricate system of lily covered channels and lagoons, is by mokoro. Heading out early, we will be transferred by safari vehicle to the poling station (approximately 1 hour transfer) where we will meet the polers who will be escorting us into the Delta. The polers will steer us through the serene area of narrow, reed lined channels which open out onto beautiful lagoons. Reaching one of the many islands, a nature walk may be taken with your poler. After the walk, we return by mokoro through the channels back to the mooring station. While the mokoro trail is not primarily a game viewing activity, a variety of game may be encountered in this pristine wilderness area including elephant, giraffe, kudu, impala and zebra. Those guests who have pre-purchased the 2-night package – will be flown into the Delta this morning and will re-join the group on the morning of day 6. Please speak to your consultant for a copy of the programme for your Okavango Delta Excursion.

Accommodation Sedia Riverside Lodge or similar. http://sedia-hotel.com/ OR Sitatunga https://www.deltarain.com/sitatunga-camp-2/
Accommodated: Two per Room with En-Suite Bathroom
Camping: Campsite with Shared Ablutions

Route: Maun – Okavango Delta – Maun
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Okavango Delta Full Day Excursion
Optional Activity: 2-Night Okavango Delta Excursion

Day 5 – Maun (Moremi Game Reserve)

You will be collected from the hotel before first light and we will drive to the South gate to enter Moremi Game Reserve. As the lagoons and channels form a vital section of the Okavango Delta eco-system, sightings of bird and animal populations become more frequent as the day progresses. The game viewing routes chosen on the day by the professional guide may vary especially when high floods are experienced as certain roads may be closed or impassable. Those guests who have purchased the 2-Night Okavango Delta excursion will not participate in the Moremi Game Reserve game drive.

Accommodation Sedia Riverside Lodge or similar. http://sedia-hotel.com/ OR Sitatunga https://www.deltarain.com/sitatunga-camp-2/
Accommodated: Two per Room with En-Suite Bathroom
Camping: Campsite with Shared Ablutions
Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Moremi Game Reserve full day excursion

Day 6 – Nata

Leaving Maun behind us this morning we make our way towards the town of Nata. We will spend most of the day in our truck as we journey across the northern reaches of the Makgadikgadi Pans. On arrival at our destination in Nata, you have the opportunity to enjoy an optional afternoon guided game drive to the Makgadikgadi Pans, which forms the breeding ground for a host of water birds including pelicans and flamingo in their thousands.

Accommodation Pelican Lodge http://www.pelicanlodge.co.bw/
Accommodated: Two per Room with En-Suite Bathroom
Camping: Campsite with Shared Ablutions
Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.

Route: Maun to Nata
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Activity: Makgadikgadi Salt Pans (Nata Sanctuary)

Day 7 – Chobe National Park

We rise early this morning as we continue north to our camp on the banks of the Chobe River. This afternoon is set aside for exploring the Chobe National Park. We begin our exploration with an optional game drive in 4×4 vehicles and our afternoon ends with a leisurely boat cruise which allows us an up close and personal experience with the many elephants that frequent the river in the afternoons.

Accommodation Thebe River Safaris http://www.theberiversafaris.com
Accommodated: Two per Room with En-Suite Bathroom
Camping: Campsite with Shared Ablutions
Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.

Route: Nata to Kasane
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Chobe National Park Boat Cruise
Optional Activity: Chobe National Park Game Drive

Day 8 – Kasane – Victoria Falls

With the memories of our wildlife encounters firmly etched in our minds, we cross the border to Zimbabwe this morning and travel the short distance to Victoria Falls. The bustling adventure town of Victoria Falls offers a range of optional activities for those wanting a dose of adrenaline and upon arrival you will have the chance to book these various activities. For the more relaxed traveller there are craft markets to explore and a delicious high tea is on offer at the Victoria Falls Hotel.

Accommodation Victoria Falls Rainbow Hotel https://rtgafrica.com/victoria-falls-rainbow/
Accommodated: Two per Room with En-suite Bathroom
Camping: Two per Room with En-Suite Bathroom
Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.

Route: Kasane to Victoria Falls
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Activity: Visit to the Victoria Falls, Bungee Jump, Gorge Swing, Sunset Cruise, Helicopter Flights, Boma Dinner Experience
Border Post: Zimbabwe: Kazangula Road, Open: 06h00-20h00
Botswana: Kazangula Road, Tel: +267 62 50330, Open: 06h00-20h00

Day 9 – Victoria Falls

With the many activities on offer in Victoria Falls, today is the perfect day for the adventure that most suits your style. Whether rafting the mighty Zambezi River or enjoying a scenic flight over the falls below, this is your day to enjoy the many attractions on offer in Victoria Falls.

Accommodation Victoria Falls Rainbow Hotel https://rtgafrica.com/victoria-falls-rainbow/
Accommodated: Two per Room with En-suite Bathroom
Camping: Two per Room with En-Suite Bathroom
Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Activity: Visit to the Victoria Falls, Bungee Jump, Gorge Swing, Sunset Cruise, Helicopter Flights, Boma Dinner Experience

Day 10 – Lusaka

Setting off early from Victoria Falls, we catch a last sighting of the mighty falls before crossing the border into Zambia. While we have a long day travelling today, we get our first impressions of the Africa that awaits us. Colourful markets, busy villages and rural scenes form the backdrop of our journey to the outskirts of Lusaka. We enjoy a prepared meal on arrival as our guides brief us on the days ahead.

Accommodation Eureka Camp http://www.eurekacamp.com
Accommodated: Two per Room with en-suite Ablutions
Camping: Campsite with Shared Ablutions
Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.

Route: Victoria Falls to Lusaka
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: View of Victoria Falls from the Bridge
Border Post: Zimbabwe: Victoria Falls Bridge (no telephone number) Open: 06h00-20h00
Zambia: Victoria Falls Bridge (no telephone number) Open: 06h00-20h00

Day 11 – Petauke

This morning we drive through Zambia’s busy capital Lusaka before turning east towards Petauke, our destination for the night. As an important link between Lusaka and neighbouring Malawi, the Great East Road winds through rural Zambia and we will cross the mighty Luangwa River along the way. Dotted with villages and subsistence farms, todays landscapes serve as a stark contrast to the developed countries so many of us call home.

Accommodation Chimwemwe Executive Lodge http://www.chimwemwelodge.com
Accommodated: Two per Room with en-suite Ablutions
Camping: Campsite with Shared Ablutions
Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.

Route: Lusaka to Petauke
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12 – South Luangwa National Park

With two days of travel behind us we look forward to the tranquillity of South Luangwa and this morning we make our way to the banks of the Luangwa River. Our first stop though is the town of Chipata, home of Chipata Cotton and an important centre for the cotton famers of the region. Tribal Textiles represents the creativity of the African culture and those interested can enjoy a tour of their workshops (March to December). One of the finest sunsets is surely that enjoyed on the banks of the Luangwa River, so grab a cold drink and watch the day fade away.

Accommodation Wildlife Camp http://www.wildlifecamp-zambia.com
Accommodated: Two per Permanent tent with Shared Ablutions
Camping: Campsite with en-suite Ablutions
Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.

Route: Petauke to South Luangwa National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Textile visit

Day 13 – South Luangwa National Park

South Luangwa National Park is a world-class safari destination and we have a full day to explore the park in search of the variety of wildlife found in the park. This morning you can partake in an optional morning safari or during the dry season (April to December) you can join one of the iconic walking safaris on offer in the park. This afternoon we will enjoy a sunset drive in the park including a sundowner stop. The unique opportunity to explore the park at night gives us a chance to spot the elusive nocturnal species that are rarely seen in the day.

Accommodation Wildlife Camp http://www.wildlifecamp-zambia.com
Accommodated: Two per Permanent tent with en-suite Ablutions
Camping: Campsite with en-suite Ablutions
Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Sunset Game Drive in South Luangwa National Park
Optional Activity: Safari Walk (seasonal) or Morning Game Drive in South Luangwa

Day 14 – Lake Malawi

This morning we board our truck and set off for Malawi, the warm heart of Africa. Our destination tonight is the shores of Lake Malawi, the southernmost lake in the East African Rift system. As one of the ten largest lakes in the world, the lake stretches for over 500km along the western boundary of Malawi and is home to more species of fish than any other lake. We spend the night on the shores of this natural wonder.

Accommodation Ngala Beach Lodge http://www.ngalabeach.com/
Accommodated: Two per Room with en-suite Ablutions
Camping: Campsite with Shared Ablutions
Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.

Route: South Luangwa National Park to Lake Malawi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Border Post: Zambia: Chipata / Nwami, Tel: + 265 622 1652, Open: 06h00-18h00
Malawi: Mchinji, Tel: +265 124 2217, Open: 06h00-18h00

Day 15 – Lake Malawi

Today we visit a local village near our lodge with the guide. The rest of the day is set aside for you to relax at the lake. Use the time to read a book, soak up the sun or indulge in the many attractions that are on offer.

Accommodation Ngala Beach Lodge http://www.ngalabeach.com/
Accommodated: Two per Room with en-suite Ablutions
Camping: Campsite with Shared Ablutions
Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Malawi Village Tour

Day 16 – Lake 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. Enjoy the sunset over the lake from the beach. Your guide will assist you to plan your activities for the coming days, or you can simply slow your clock to Africa time relaxing on the lake shore.

Accommodation Majizuwa http://www.majizuwa.com/
Accommodated: Two per Room with en-suite Ablutions
Camping: Campsite with Shared Ablutions
Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.

Route: Central Lake Malawi to North Lake Malawi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 17 – Lake Malawi

Snorkelling in the crystal waters offers the chance to see first-hand the brilliantly coloured tropical cichlids, tiny fish often found in colourful aquariums around the world. Your afternoon will be spent walking through the small village of Ngala.

Accommodation Majizuwa http://www.majizuwa.com/
Accommodated: Two per Room with en-suite Ablutions
Camping: Campsite with Shared Ablutions
Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 18 – Tanzania – Iringa

Today as we leave Malawi, we ascend the Great Rift Valley and make our way into Tanzania. We round the northern extremes of the lake as we turn east and continue to our overnight stop in Iringa.

Accommodation Kisolanza Farm http://www.kisolanza.com
Accommodated: Two per Room with en-suite Ablutions
Camping: Campsite with Shared Ablutions
Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.

Route: Northern Lake Malawi to Iringa
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Border Post: Malawi: Songwe (no telephone), Open: 06h00-18h00
Tanzania: Chi’zumulu, Tel: +265 15 357 207, Open: 06h00-18h00

Day 19 – Mikumi

This morning we complete our journey to the doorstep of Mikumi National Park. Mikumi ranks as the fourth largest park in Tanzania, but forms part of a 75 000 square kilometre wilderness that centres on Selous, Africa’s largest game reserve. Today you will have the opportunity to book a game drive in Mikumi National Park.

Accommodation Asante Afrika Camp www.asanteafrikacamp.com
Accommodated: Two per Room with en-suite Ablutions
Camping: Campsite with Shared Ablutions
Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.

Route: Iringa to Mikumi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Activity: Mikumi Game Drive

Day 20 – Zanzibar Excursion

We rise early and travel from Mikumi to the Port of Dar Es Salaam, where we will board the ferry and make the ocean journey to the island of Zanzibar. Our home for the next three nights, Stone Town offers a perfect stop to enjoy the beaches and activities on offer.

Accommodation Ocean View Hotel http://www.ocean.co.tz
Accommodated: Two per Room with En-suite Bathroom
Camping: Two per Room with En-suite Bathroom
Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.

Route: Mikumi via Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar by ferry
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 21 – Zanzibar Excursion

This morning we enjoy the local scenery by embarking on a spice tour with a local guide. The afternoon is free to enjoy some of the many attraction sand activities on offer. Water sports are the order of the day and you have the opportunity to book activities such as fishing, snorkelling, scuba diving and a variety of ocean safari options. Whatever it is you chose to do today, you will have ample opportunity to create some island memories. Rent a scooter and explore the many attractions on offer or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.

Accommodation Ocean View Hotel http://www.ocean.co.tz
Accommodated: Two per Room with En-suite Bathroom
Camping: Two per Room with En-suite Bathroom
Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Activity: Fishing, Snorkelling, Scuba Diving, Turtle Sanctuary Visit, Village Tours, and more
Included Highlight: Stone Town City Walk / Spice Tour

Day 22 – Zanzibar Excursion

Today we explore the beautiful Jozani Forest. For those wanting to do their last bit of sightseeing, the afternoon is free for optional activities. Boasting a rich history this bustling port was once a landmark on both the Slave and Spice trade routes.

Accommodation Ocean View Hotel http://www.ocean.co.tz
Accommodated: Two per Room with En-suite Bathroom
Camping: Two per Room with En-suite Bathroom
Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.

Route: Stone Town
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Jozani Forest Half Day tour

Day 23 – Dar es Salaam

This morning we have some time to explore the sights of Stone Town, the rich history and vibrant markets are some of the highlights of any visit to Zanzibar. We bid farewell to the island and board our return ferry to Dar es Salaam where your tour comes to an end upon arrival.

Accommodation Post tour accommodation can be booked through your guide.

Route: Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam by ferry
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Included Highlight: Stone Town

Optional Okavango Delta Excursion

Included in the tour price is a full day excursion into the Okavango Delta, however, a 2-night package is available for purchase, should you wish to spend 2 nights in the Okavango Delta. In order to ensure availability of this optional activity, we request that you pre-book and pre-pay this activity together with your tour purchase. Single supplement charges paid on the tour do not cover the Okavango Delta excursion and if a single traveller is participating in this optional activity, the single supplement will need to be charged. We will try our best to pair up guests during the 2-night excursion, however if this is not possible, the single supplement will be compulsory. A minimum number of 2 guests is required in order for the 2-night excursion to operate.

At the time of booking, our reservations team will inform you which property has been secured for the particular date of your tour departure.
Option 1: Mopiri Camp OR Moremi Crossing
Option 2: Nguma Lodge

Optional Activity – Mopiri Camp OR Moremi Crossing
2-Night Okavango Delta excursion price per person R 15 460
2-Night Okavango Delta excursion single supplement price R 7 700

Optional Activity – Nguma Lodge Price
2-Night Okavango Delta excursion price per person R 11 250
2-Night Okavango Delta excursion single supplement price R 1 800