Nairobi to Victoria Falls overland trip Kenya Tanzania Malawi Zimbabwe Africa volunteer adventure travel and overland trips africa

SOUTHERN DISCOVERER – 21 DAYS
NAIROBI TO VICTORIA FALLS or VICTORIA FALLS TO NAIROBI

This trip begins in Nairobi, Kenya and travels south through Tanzania, Malawi and Zambia before ending in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. There is the opportunity for optional excursions to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater as well as an optional three nights on Zanzibar Island - known as "Spice Island" and one of the major starting points for East African explorers in their quest for new lands. The trip departs from Nairobi early on Sunday morning and anyone wishing to explore the town should arrive earlier. Accommodation can be arranged through Amanzi Travel. This trip also travels in the reverse direction, starting at Victoria Falls and ending in Nairobi. It also departs early on Sunday morning and anyone wishing to explore Victoria Falls should plan an earlier arrival. Accommodation can be arranged through Amanzi Travel.

Location:

NAIROBI TO VICTORIA FALLS or VICTORIA FALLS TO NAIROBI

Dates:

Departs regularly

Fees:

£535 - 21 days
USD 300 - Local Payment

Payment:

£180 deposit at time of booking – balance due 8 weeks before departure

Reference:

AT005

Special Offer:

Join the 3 day Masai Mara Safari - 160 USD local payment only +
the 3 day Hwange Community Experience OR the 2 day Chobe Mobile Safari - 180 USD local payment only
(terms apply)

General Information

Please note: This tour operates in both directions

Start and end points: Nairobi to Victoria Falls and Victoria Falls to Nairobi
Countries visited: Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe
Departure Point Nairobi: Hotel Boulevard, Harry Thuku Road, Nairobi
Check-in time: 8.45 am (departure 9.30 am)
Departure Point Victoria Falls: Victoria Falls Rest Camp, Parkway Drive, Victoria Falls
Check-in time: 8.45 am (departure time to be advised at the pre-departure meeting)
Pre-departue Meeting: 5.00 pm the day before at the departure point (optional)

Itinerary

DAY 1: Nairobi to Arusha (Tanzania) (L / D)

This morning passengers joining this leg of the trek will be collected and the group will travel south crossing the border into Tanzania at Namanga. The night will be spent in a lovely campsite in Meserani on the outskirts of Arusha, before potentially heading out on the optional excursions to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.

DAYS 2-4: Arusha to Serengeti National Park (OPTIONAL) (B / L / D)

Arusha is a pleasant town situated at the base of Mount Meru and is the starting point for the optional excursions to Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti. These excursions are provided in locally operated 4WD vehicles, which are adapted for safari use. For those not opting to visit the Ngorongoro Crater or Serengeti National Park, the next days are spent at leisure enjoying the Meserani reptile park, Masai Cultural Museum and the surrounding villages and craft markets. Alternatively the town of Arusha is close by to explore. The optional Ngorongoro/Serengeti excursion travels via the Masai town of Mtu Wa Mbu (Mosquito River) that lies adjacent to the Lake Manyara National Park and up the Rift Valley Escarpment to the higher lying village of Karatu. Karatu offers magnificent views over the surrounding hills and has many well established wheat farms that add to the picturesque panoramas. The evening is spent at a pleasant campsite in Karatu. The following morning sees an early departure for the Ngorongoro Conservation area and the wildlife rich Ngorongoro Crater. This World Heritage Site boasts some of the best game viewing in Africa – including the elusive Black Rhino. After the game drive in the Crater, the excursion will head down the Crater rim and past the ‘Cradle of Mankind’ on the way to the Serengeti National Park where the vast plains will be crossed during the drive through the southern and central areas in the park. The camp tonight will be in the bushveld surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness. In the morning, the group will head off for another game drive to explore the landscape in search of the resident game. With some luck, some of Africa’s ‘Big 5’ will be seen! Following the morning drive it will be time to head back across the plains and the lush Crater rim to the truck at Arusha, where the evening will be spent musing over the thrilling wildlife experience.

DAY 5: Arusha to Pangani (B / L / D)

After a morning spent exploring Arusha and its vibrant craft markets, the group will head south towards Dar es Salaam, driving through the town of Moshi en route. Moshi is the base for Mount Kilimanjaro climbing expeditions, and weather permitting it may be possible to catch a glimpse of this magical mountain’s snowy summit - a photo opportunity not to be missed! Vast sisal plantations, surrounded by The Usambara and Pare Mountain ranges, will be passed before reaching the lovely campsite nestled between these mountains, midway between Arusha and Dar es Salaam.

DAY 6: Pangani to Dar es Salaam (B / L / D)

Today the trip continues on to Dar es Salaam, travelling through lush scenery and palm trees when nearing the warm Indian Ocean. On arrival in Dar es Salaam the lovely seaside campsite is approached and preparations made for departure to Zanzibar the next morning.

DAY 7: Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar (B)

A ferry from Dar es Salaam takes those travelling to the "Spice Island,” where there is the option to spend the next three nights. Zanzibar is steeped in history and was one of the major starting points for most East African explorers in their quest for new lands. New passengers may join the group here to replace those leaving the group at the end of the excursion to Zanzibar.

PLEASE NOTE: Accommodation and meals are not provided on Zanzibar, as experience has shown that passengers prefer to explore the island on their own. The Trip Leader can arrange accommodation, while meals can be enjoyed from a wide selection of restaurants. For those members of the group not opting to visit the Island of Zanzibar, the next three days are spent at leisure at the beach campsite in Dar es Salaam.

DAYS 8 -9: Zanzibar

History aside, Zanzibar offers a wealth of experiences for the visitor. Today the quiet streets of the old Stone Town still retain their Arabic influence, from the Medina-like shops to the palaces of the Sultans, who founded their vast empires on the spoils of the slave and ivory trade. The island is famous for its spices and an excursion around a spice plantation is always a fascinating experience. Other options include a trip to the beautiful beaches and giant tortoises of Prison Island, a full day scuba dive in Nungwe or a fishing trip in a traditional dhow. Mopeds are available for hire for those wishing to explore the more remote areas of the island. Zanzibar is a seafood lover’s paradise. Numerous restaurants offer a great variety of the freshest catch from the ocean - crayfish being a popular speciality. Alternatively, mingle with the locals for dinner at the Forodhani Gardens seafront market, where delicious, inexpensive seafood is on offer.

DAY 10: Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam (D)

Leaving Zanzibar, the group returns to the mainland and another night in Dar es Salaam.

DAY 11: Dar es Salaam to Iringa (B / L / D)

This morning the group will leave Dar es Salaam and head south, passing through the Mikumi National Park where it is possible to view a range of wildlife from the roadside, totally impervious to the passing traffic. After travelling towards Iringa the night is spent in a beautiful rustic campsite famous for its Amarula Hot Chocolates and its steamy showers!

DAYS 12 -16: Iringa to Lake Malawi (Malawi) (B / L / D)

Take in the beauty of the Tukuyu tea and banana plantations before heading towards Malawi and entering the ‘Warm Heart of Africa’ through the border post at Songwe. Malawi is a landlocked country with 20% of its total area made up of beautiful Lake Malawi. The length of the western side of the lake is covered, stopping off at various bays and inlets over the next five days. Spend the days learning the game of bao from the locals, scour the markets for a bargain or simply relax on the pristine white beaches. Malawi’s temperate climate allows for swimming in the clear blue fresh water lake all year round. Explore the beautiful shoreline, perhaps happening upon the local fishermen sorting their catch. Try paddling a dug out canoe to fully appreciate the traditional fishing techniques still practised! The various beachside campsites along Lake Malawi’s shores offer many optional excursions including a variety of water sports, horse back rides and a visit to the local village and school.

DAY 17: Lake Malawi to Chipata (Zambia) (B / L / D)

From Lake Malawi the border into Zambia is crossed and the night spent in a beautiful little campsite just 10 km from the Malawi/Zambia border.

DAY 18: Chipata to Lusaka (B / L / D)

From Chipata, the group heads south to the campsite on the outskirts of Zambia’s capital city, Lusaka. The campsite is home to some local wildlife including Africa’s largest antelope – Eland.

DAY 19: Lusaka to Livingstone (B / L / D)

An early morning start to head south to Livingstone. Victoria Falls or Mosi-oa-Tunya (the Smoke that Thunders) is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and it’s not difficult to see why. At 1700 m wide and around 100 m high, this is the world's largest sheet of falling water and a memorable sight on any African Safari! The Falls can be viewed from the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Zambia - a fantastic photo opportunity. There is the option tonight of enjoying a sunset dinner cruise on the mighty Zambezi.

DAY 20: Livingstone to Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) (B / L / D)

To-day the group will leave Zambia and cross the Victoria Falls Bridge and the Zambezi River, entering Zimbabwe at the town of Victoria Falls. Here in Africa’s adventure capital, camp is set up in the town’s centrally located campsite. The Falls can be viewed from the Victoria Falls National Park, Zimbabwe - another fantastic photo opportunity! The afternoon is spent relaxing at the campsite’s swimming pool or exploring the many sights and delights of this town!

Optional Excursions include trips into the Zambezi or Hwange National Parks, elephant back safaris, horse back safaris, a visit to the crocodile ranch, boat cruises and golf at the Elephant Hills Resort. Adrenalin junkies can bungee from the Victoria Falls Bridge connecting Zimbabwe and Zambia or abseil down the Batoka Gorge - neither activity is for the faint hearted! All year round flights over the Falls which can be taken in fixed wing planes, micro lights or helicopters to gain an aerial perspective over this magnificent World Heritage Site. White water rafting on the Zambezi is world class and in addition to the Grade 5 rapids there are the "floats" where there is time to admire the scenic cliffs and the occasional wildlife on the riverbanks.

DAY 21: Victoria Falls (B)

After breakfast, addresses are exchanged and everyone parts ways having just experienced a trip of a lifetime! It is possible to extend a visit here for a few days to take part in some of the exciting activities. Post tour accommodation can be booked through Amanzi travel.

Please note that this itinerary should be used as a guide only and may vary from day to day depending on road and weather conditions. Due to Tourism Laws in some of the countries visited, there may be a truck and crew change during the trip.

Optional excursions

Zimbabwe:
Victoria Falls National Park Entry (for viewing the Falls) - $20

Victoria Falls :
White Water Rafting on the Zambezi (full day) - $110
Bungee Jump (111 m) - $105
Tandem Bungee Jump - $145
River Boarding combo Raft and Board - $140
Canoeing on the Zambezi - half day/full day - $90/$105 + $10 park fees
Half Day Adrenaline - Gorge Swing, Zip Line and Flying Fox - $105
Full Day Adrenaline - as above + Abseil and Rap Jump - $140
Elephant Bank Safari - $110
Walk with Lions - $115
Micro Light over the Falls - 15 mins - $120
Micro Light over the Falls - 30 mins - $230
Helicoptor Flight over the Falls - 12 mins - $115
Helicoptor Flight over the Falls -19 - 25 mins - $175 - $220
Zambezi Sunset Cruise - $45
Horse Safaris - 2 hour Novice/3 hour Experienced - $60/$70
Hwange National Park (2 nights/3 day safari) - $450
Chobe Botswana - full day - $170

Zambia, Livingstone:
Zambezi Sunset Dinner Cruise (including meal and drinks) - $50

Malawi:
Freshwater Diving at Kande Beach - $40 (additional dives $25 each)
Horse Riding at Kande Beach 2 hour/3 hour (Bush, Beach and Swim) - $50/$70
Village Walk at Kande Beach - from $5
Village Walk at Chitimba Beach - $2
Witch Doctor/Personal Reading - $2/$2
Livingstonia Mission Hike - 30 km return - $5
Carving Lessons and Local Fishing - price to be negotiated on arrival

Tanzania:
Serengeti/Ngorongoro Crater - From $410
Masai Village Visit - $10
Olduvai Gorge - $5

Zanzibar:
Fast Ferry Return - $10
Transfer to Nungwi - $8
Zanzibar Accommodation - from $20 - $50 per day
Spice Tour including lunch - $20
Prison Island Snorkelling Trip - $20
Dolphin/Jozani Forest - $30/$8
Diving, Snorkelling and Fishing - from $30
Dhow Sunset Cruise - from $20
Motorbike/Car Hire -0 $25 - $30/$50 - $70 + local drivers licence/insurance at $5

*Although traveller’s cheques are accepted for the Serengeti/Ngorongoro Excursion, they are subject to a surcharge of at least 5%. Please note that all accommodation and activities in Victoria Falls must be paid for in US dollars cash (GBP and ZAR also accepted at a lower rate).

All prices are in US dollars. For a more comprehensive list of things to do before, during or after your trip, please email or call Amanzi Travel on 0117 904 1924.
Please Note - these prices are approximate and are subject to change, and where activities occur away from your base, there may be an additional transfer cost.

Support

Support and advice is available from the Trip Guides whilst on the expedition and from the UK Amanzi Travel Team.
Find out more about Amanzi Travel support.

Orientation

A comprehensive information pack will be sent upon booking this excursion and our staff are always on hand to offer further advice and information provided via telephone and email before departure. The day before the trip begins, there will be a full orientation at 5.00 pm at the departure point by the project coordinator including information on the current status of the overland trip. The pre-departure meeting is not essential but it is recommended, and is a great opportunity to meet trip companions.

Accommodation and Meals

These are camping trips, and spacious 2-person tents with sewn in ground sheets and a separate fly sheet are provided. Most nights will be spent in organised campsites which usually have hot water showers and extra facilities such as a bar or swimming pool. Increasingly these places have simple roomed accommodation, so on occasion there may be the choice, at extra cost, to upgrade to a bed if so wished. Occasionally, when it is not possible to drive any further or when there is no local campsite available, it may be necessary to bush camp. The vehicles are completely self-sufficient for this and camping out in the middle of the African bush can be a memorable experience.

The safari cook does all the cooking on the trip, although it may be necessary to participate in the preparation of the meals on a rota basis. Meals and menus vary depending on what is available locally, but three healthy square meals a day on the road are provided. Fresh fruit and vegetables are purchased from market stalls, supported by a bulk buy of goods bought prior to departure. In the towns and cities there is the optional alternative of sampling the local restaurants.

Getting There

The most convenient airport to fly into for this trip is the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi. Please arrive in plenty of time for this trip, to allow for flights delays. Help with organising local accommodation can be given if required.

(There may be a number of ways to reach your destination airport – for further information or advice please contact Amanzi Travel)

Let Amanzi Travel arrange your flights for you