Day 1 – South Africa – Cederberg Region

The Cederberg region not only boasts spectacular mountains and orange farms, but it is also the home of the Rooibos bush. Indigenous to the mountain slopes of the Cedarberg, this herbal beverage has earned an international reputation as a healthy and refreshing alternative to regular tea. The Cedarberg region is known for its mountain fynbos and spectacular views of the rugged Cedarberg Mountains. A dinner at our overnight stop offers an opportunity for us to get acquainted while enjoying some South African hospitality.

Accommodation: Marcuskraal Campsite; www.marcuskraal.co.za
Accomodated: 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: Cape Town to Citrusdal
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Traditional Dinner

Day 2 – Namaqualand – Gariep (Orange) River

Namaqualand presents us with our first experience of the Desert vistas that will accompany us in the days ahead. We continue our journey north and after a short stop for supplies in Springbok, we travel to our camp on the banks of the Orange River. If you are fortunate enough to be travelling in the spring months (July to September) you may encounter the wild flowers that have made this region famous. No matter the time of year though, the strange desert vistas offer a unique backdrop to this day’s travel.

Accommodation: Felix Unite Cabanas; www.felixunite.com/accommodation
Accomodated: 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: Citrusdal to the Orange River
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 – Namibia – Gariep (Orange) River – Fish River Canyon

While the Orange River was named after the Dutch Royal House, in recent times it has been referred to by its original name of Gariep, which simply means “river” in the indigenous KhoeKhoe language. Beginning its journey in the mountains of Lesotho, the Orange River is the longest river in South Africa and offers a unique contrast to the desert landscapes along its banks. The best way to experience the river is by getting out on the water and this morning we have the opportunity to join an optional canoe trip on the river.  Around midday (after lunch) we depart the Orange River and head inland to our overnight stop. At Ais Ais, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the mineral and sulphur rich hot springs.

Accommodation: NWR: Ai Ais Resort; www.nwr.com.na/ai-ais-hotsprings-spa
Accommodated: Two per room with en-suite bathroom
Camping: Campsite Shared Ablutions

Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.

Route: Orange/Gariep River to Ai-Ais
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Activity: Ai-Ais Hot Springs

Day 4 – Fish River Canyon, Quiver Tree Forest and Giants Playground

We rise early this morning, pack up our camp, making our way to the rim of the Fish River Canyon. We arrive in time to catch the morning sunrays filter through the canyon. After stretching our legs with a gentle walk along the rim of the canyon, we turn west and head for Keetmanshoop. Our afternoon will be spent meandering through the Quiver Tree Forest and The Giants Playground – named for the way in which the massive dolerite boulders have been placed on each other – creating rock formations and a series of mazes.

Accommodation: Schutzenhaus Guesthouse; www.schuetzenhaus-namibia.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: Fish River Canyon to Keetmanshoop
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlights: Scenic walk along the rim of Fish River Canyon / Visit to Quiver Tree Forest and Giants Playground

Day 5 – Namib-Naukluft National Park

Every overland journey has some long travelling days and today is one of those as we venture deeper into the Namib Desert. Our destination is the dune fields that cover the western reaches of the desert. Long dusty roads and sparsely populated farmlands offer us an insight into the vastness of rural Namibia. From the grasslands in the east to the red dunes of the west, the slowly changing landscapes represents the many faces of this desert country. Tonight we camp on the doorstep of the dune fields and fall asleep to the unique calls of the elusive Barking Gecko.

Accommodation: Hammerstein Lodge; hammersteinlodge.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: Keetmanshoop to Namib Naukluft NP
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 – Sossusvlei Dunes – Namib-Naukluft National Park

Today we will rise early for our drive to the Namib-Naukluft National Park.  We will enter the park just after sunrise and travel through to the famous Dune 45. A brisk climb up Dune 45 offers us the perfect vantage point to marvel at the changing colours of the desert. Once satisfied we descend this famous dune and enjoy a hearty breakfast before catching a 4×4 transfer into Sossusvlei, here we will spend time on foot visiting the pans at Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. Tonight we empty the red sand from our shoes and spend the night under the magnificent desert stars, knowing that we have spent a full-day enjoying the wonders of this harsh land.

Accommodation:
Hammerstein Lodge; hammersteinlodge.com
or
Boesman’s Camp (No website available)
Accommodated: Two per room sharing with en-suite bathrooms
Camping: Campsite with Shared Ablutions

Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.

Route: Namib-Naukluft NP – Naukluft Area
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Sesriem Canyon / Hike up Dune 45, 4×4 shuttle to Sossusvlei / Deadvlei

Day 7 – Swakopmund

Our final day in the desert comes to an end as we join a local expert for an educational desert excursion. Reluctantly we leave the Namib behind and after a stop to mark our crossing of the Tropic of Capricorn, we continue to the Atlantic coastline. We make our way to the coastal town of Swakopmund, where adventure and a dose of civilisation await. We make a brief stop at the Walvis Bay lagoon, where we hope to catch a glimpse of the flamingo’s that feed in the shallows. Arriving in Swakopmund we will have the opportunity to book some of the many adventures on offer.

Accommodation:

Haus Garnison; hausgarnison.com
or
Amanpuri Travellers Lodge; www.amanpurinamibia.com
or
Stay@Swakop; www.stay-at-swakop.com
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: Naukluft Area to Swakopmund
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Activity: Walvis Bay Lagoon, Tropic of Capricorn, Guided desert walk with local expert.

Day 8 – Swakopmund

While for many it is the adrenaline fuelled adventures that will grab their attention, Swakopmund offers all that and more. Take the opportunity today to explore the town at your leisure, as there are a number of attractions for every taste. Not to be missed is the selection of famed coffee shops and bakeries that offer a delightful range of German inspired treats. Swakopmund offers all the conveniences of a small city and is the perfect launching pad for the journey through the northern reaches of the land.

Accommodation:
Haus Garnison; hausgarnison.com
or
Amanpuri Travellers Lodge; www.amanpurinamibia.com
or
Stay@Swakop; www.stay-at-swakop.com

Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Activity: Dolphin cruise, Skydiving, sandboarding, Quad biking, Dinner

Day 9 – Spitzkoppe to Brandberg

Leaving early, we make our way to the massive granite formations of Spitzkoppe which tower 700 metres above the desert plains below. The presence of rock art indicates their significance to the San people who lived here many years ago. We will enjoy a walk and have the opportunity to view some examples of the San’s rock art before setting off for our overnight stop for the evening.

Accommodation: Brandberg White Lady; www.brandbergwllodge.com
Accommodated: Two per room with en-suite bathroom
Campsite: Campsite with Shared Ablutions

Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.

Route: Swakopmund to Brandberg (via Spitzkoppe)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Visit and explore Spitzkoppe with a local guide

Day 10 – Brandberg White Lady

The Brandberg (Burning Mountains) are regarded as the highest in Namibia and home to the famous White Lady, one of more than 45,000 rock paintings in the area.  This morning we will make the ±2-hour return hike to visit the painting that is said to be around 2,000 years old. (Please be advised that the hike does traverse rough terrain along the gorge of the normally dry Tsisab River). After our exploration, our journey continues to the area of Kamanjab.  For those who would like to visit an educational centre showcasing the lifestyle of the Himba Tribe, you will have the opportunity to book an optional excursion this afternoon.

Accommodation: Oppi Koppi Rest Camp www.oppi-koppi-kamanjab.com
Accommodated: Two per room 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: Brandberg to Kamanjab
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Brandberg White Lady hike

Day 11 – Etosha National Park

Rising early this morning we drive to the Etosha National Park. Etosha is the venue for some of the most unique game viewing experiences in Africa. This afternoon we reach the park and begin with our first game drive as we make our way to the rest camp.

Accommodation: NWR: Halai; www.nwr.com.na/resorts/halali
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: Kamanjab to Etosha National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Afternoon game drive in the Overland Truck

Day 12 – Etosha National Park

Our second day in Etosha allows for a full day to continue our exploration of the park. No day on safari is ever the same and the suspense before that special sighting is the motivation that keeps our eyes wide open. We explore the edges of Etosha Pan in search of the abundant wildlife that occurs in the park.

Accommodation: NWR: Okaukuejo; www.nwr.com.na/resorts/Okaukuejo
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: Etosha National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Full day game drive in the truck

Day 13 – Windhoek

It is an early rise as we take aim for Windhoek, the capital city of Namibia. Upon arrival in Windhoek, we will take a short walk through the city centre and have the opportunity to view some its better known landmarks. (Our accommodation for the night is situated halfway between the city and the airport).

Accommodation: Heja Game Lodge; www.hejalodge.com
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: Etosha National Park to Windhoek
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Walk through Windhoek with your Overland Guide

Day 14 – Botswana – Ghanzi

Today we travel east and make our way to neighbouring Botswana and the Kalahari Desert. Starkly different to the Namib Desert after which Namibia is named, the Kalahari is no less dramatic and covers over 900 000 square kilometres. The San people have long been associated with this harsh environment and this afternoon we will enjoy an informative guided walk with the San community. Tonight we enjoy a dance evening that provides an insight into their culture of song, dance and story-telling.

Accommodation: Ghanzi Trail Blazers; ghanzitrailblazers.co.bw
Accommmodated: 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: Windhoek to Ghanzi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight:  San tribal dance in the evening
Optional Activity: San Guided Walk (may take place the next morning)

Day 15 – Okavango Delta

You will be separated from your Overland truck for the next 2 nights and it is therefore important that you pack/gather your personal belongings which you may need, before we depart for Maun today as there is limited time in Maun for re-packing and storing.  Please pack lightly and only take what you need for the following two nights.  This morning we rise early and make our way towards Maun, where upon arrival in Maun you will have the opportunity to go on an optional scenic flight over the Delta (time and weather permitting). After your optional flight, you will be collected from Maun and will be transferred to the Greater Moremi Game Reserve Area in smaller safari type vehicles.  This evening our guide will prepare us on what to expect for our mokoro excursion into the Okavango Delta and our game drive in Moremi Game Reserve.

Accommodation: South Gate Camp (No website available)
Accommodated:  Two per permanent tent with en-suite bathrooms
Camping: Campsite with Shared Ablutions

Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.

Route: Ghanzi via Maun to the Moremi South Gate
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Activity: Okavango Delta scenic flight

Day 16 – Okavango Delta Excursion

Heading out early, we transfer by safari vehicle, to the poling station, 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 pole and after the walk, we return by mokoro through the channels back to the poling station.  While the mokoro trail is not primarily a game viewing activity, a variety of game may be spotted in this pristine wilderness area, including elephant, giraffe, kudu, impala and zebra.   After lunch, we will return to Moremi Game Reserve for our afternoon game drive which will be conducted in open 4×4 safari vehicles.  The game viewing routes chosen during the afternoon by the professional guide may vary especially when high floods are experienced as certain roads may be closed or impassable.

Accommodation: South Gate Camp ( No website available) 
Accommodated: Two per pre-erected tent with en-suite bathrooms
Camping: Campsite with Shared Ablutions

Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.

Route: Moremi South Gate – Poling Station – Okavango Delta – Moremi South Gate
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Okavango Delta Morning Mokoro Excursion / Moremi Game Reserve Afternoon Game Drive

Day 17 – Savuti Game Reserve

The Savuti Game Reserve is a unique area bordered by the Okavango Delta to west and Chobe National Park to the east.  Savuti is renowned as a big game area and known for having the largest concentrations of wildlife in Southern Africa.  Today we will spend most of our day travelling through the Savuti Game Reserve in search of the species that roam the plains.  Offering habitats from wetland, open water to the grasslands and Savannah woodland, we hope to see as many species of fauna and flora possible.  This afternoon we arrive on the banks of the Chobe River and will be re-united with our Overland truck in the town of Kasane.

Accommodation: Thebe River Safaris; www.theberiversafaris.com
Accommodated: Two per room sharing
Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions

Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.

Route: Moremi South Gate – via Savuti Game Reserve – Kasane
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Full Day Game Drive through Savuti Game Reserve in 4×4 safari vehicles

Day 18 – Chobe National Park

For those that opt to participate in the optional game drive in Chobe National Park, you will be collected early from camp and will venture out in open 4×4 safari type vehicles.  You will return to camp in time for lunch and a quick siesta before we head out in the afternoon to explore the Chobe National Park from the river, enjoying 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; 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 19 – Zimbabwe -Victoria Falls

With the memories of our wildlife encounters firmly etched in our minds, we cross the border into Zimbabwe this morning and travel the short distance to Victoria Falls. Today you have the opportunity to visit the spectacular Victoria Falls at your leisure, also known by the local name of “Mosi-oa Tunya” (the smoke that thunders).

Accommodation: Shearwater Explorers Village; explorersvillage.com
Accommodated: Two per room with en-suite bathroom
Camping:Campsite with pre-erected dome tent and camping beds

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 the Vic Falls, Zambezi Sunset Cruise, Bungee Jump, Helicopter Flights, White Water Rafting

Day 20 – Victoria Falls

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

Accommodation: Shearwater Explorers Village; explorersvillage.com
Accommodated: Two per room with en-suite bathroom
Camping: Campsite with pre-erected dome tent and camping beds

Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.

Meals: Breakfast
Optional Activity: Zambezi Sunset Cruise, Bungee Jump, Helicopter Flights, White Water Rafting

Day 21 – Victoria Falls to Francistown

Departing Victoria Falls this morning, we cross into Botswana and travel south to Francistown in central Botswana. We reach our overnight stop on the outskirts of Francistown in the late afternoon.

Accommodation: Woodlands Lodge or similar. www.woodlandsbotswana.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: Victoria Falls to Francistown
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 22 – Francistown to Johannesburg

Leaving early we continue to the border with South Africa and on to the city of Johannesburg. All travellers are invited to join us for a traditional meal tonight, this can be booked with your guide on the day before arrival. Many great tales are shared and tonight presents an opportunity to join fellow travellers in celebrating the many wonders of African travel. We arrive at Belvedere Estate in the late afternoon.

Accommodation: Belvedere Estate or similar; www.belvedereestate.co.za
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: Francistown to Johannesburg
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 23 – Johannesburg to Kruger National Park

Please note that during the next few days (while we are visiting Kruger National Park), the order of activities could change without prior notice and a degree of flexibility is needed.  This is to allow for maximum game viewing opportunities and experiences. Leaving the city of Johannesburg behind us we make our way east through the coalfields of Mpumalanga. Our journey today follows in the footsteps of the old trade-routes to the Lowveld and the Kruger National Park. We set up camp at our base for the next three nights and enjoy a lovely sundowner drive.

Accommodation: Nkambeni Safari Camp; www.nkambeni.com
Accommodated: Two per pre-erected fixed tent 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 Kruger National Park
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Sundowner Game Drive

Day 24 – Kruger National Park

Rising early this morning we enter the Kruger National Park to enjoy a full-day of game viewing. The abundance of wildlife presents us with opportunities for excellent sightings, while the Kruger is also home to the famed members of Africa’s Big-5. The game drive offers the excitement of experiencing the park from an open-sided 4×4 vehicle.

Accommodation: Nkambeni Safari Camp; www.nkambeni.com
Accommodated: Two per pre-erected fixed tent 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: Full-Day Kruger Park Game Drive in 4×4 Vehicles

Day 25 – Kruger National Park – Panorama Route

This morning we will journey along the scenic Panorama Route where we will visit God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes and the Three Rondavels.

Accommodation: Nkambeni Safari Camp; www.nkambeni.com
Accommodated: Two per pre-erected tent 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: The Panorama Route – God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes and Three Rondavels

Day 26 – Kruger National Park to Johannesburg

We enjoy our last drive through the park before setting off to Belvedere Estate. We arrive at Belvedere Estate in the late afternoon and all travellers are invited to join us for a traditional meal tonight. This can be booked with your guide on the day before arrival. Many great tales are shared and tonight is for celebrating the many wonders of African travel.

Accommodation: Own arrangements/Post tour accommodation can be booked through your travel agent.
Route: Kruger Park to Johannesburg
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Included Highlight: Half-Day Morning Game Drive in the Truck (4 hours)