SOUTHERN EXPLORER – 42 DAYS
NAIROBI TO CAPE TOWN or CAPE TOWN TO NAIROBI

This trip begins in Nairobi, Kenya and travels south through Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana and Namibia before ending in Cape Town, South Africa.  The trip operates in both directions and leaves Cape Town or Nairobi early on Sunday mornings.  Anyone wishing to explore either Cape Town or Nairobi should plan an earlier arrival.  Accommodation can be arranged through Amanzi Travel. 

	Location:	NAIROBI TO CAPE TOWN or CAPE TOWN TO NAIROBI	Dates:	Departs regularly
	Fees:	£925 - 42 days USD 755 - Local Payment	Payment:	£180 deposit at time of booking – balance payment of project fee due 12 weeks before departure
	Reference:	AT017	Special Offer:	Join the 3 day Masai Mara Safari with this trip - 160 USD local payment only (terms apply)

General Information

Please Note: This trip operates in both directions

Start and Finish Points: Cape Town to Nairobi or Nairobi to Cape Town
Countries visited: Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe
Departure Point Cape Town:  Ashanti Lodge and Travel Centre, 11 Hof Street, Gardens, Cape Town
Check in time: 8.45a m (departure 9.30 am)
Departure Point Nairobi:  Hotel Boulevard, Harry Thuku Road, Nairobi
Check in time: 8.45 am (9.30 am departure)
Pre-departure Meeting: 5 pm the day before at the departure point (optional)

Itinerary

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

This morning new passengers join the trip and then travel south crossing the border into Tanzania at Namanga. Tonight will be spent in a lovely campsite in Meserani on the outskirts of Arusha, before potentially heading out on an optional excursion 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 conducted 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 with an early departure the following morning for the Ngorongoro Conservation area and he wildlife rich Ngorongoro Crater. This World Heritage Site boasts some of the best game viewing in Africa – including the elusive Black Rhino.  After a game drive in the Crater, the group will head down the Crater rim and past the ‘Cradle of Mankind’ on the way to the Serengeti National Park, crossing the vast plains in a game drive through the southern and central areas in the park. Tonight camp is in the bushveld surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness. The morning offers 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! After the morning drive, the trip will 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 the group will head south towards Dar es Salaam driving through the town of Moshi on the way.  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!  Pass through vast sisal plantations surrounded by the Usambara and Pare Mountain ranges, 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 continue on to Dar es Salaam travelling through lush scenery and palm trees as the warm Indian Ocean is approached.  On arrival in Dar es Salaam the lovely seaside campsite is reached in time to prepare for departure to Zanzibar the next morning. 

DAY 7: Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar (B)

A ferry from Dar es Salaam is taken 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 here to replace those that’ll leave  at the end of our excursion to Zanzibar. PLEASE NOTE: Accommodation and meals are not provided whilst on Zanzibar, as experience has shown that passengers prefer to explore the island on their own. The Trip Leader will be available and can arrange accommodation, while meals can be enjoyed from a wide selection of restaurants. 

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 Zanzibarto-day to return to the mainland and another night in Dar es Salaam.

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

To-day Dar es Salaam is left behind before 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.  Travel on towards Iringa where the night will be 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 while 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 travelled, stopping off at various bays and inlets over the next five days which can be spent learning the game of bao from the locals, scouring the markets for a bargain or simply relaxing 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 shore and happen upon the local fishermen sorting their catch. Traditional fishing techniques are still practiced and to appreciate their boating skills, try to paddle a dug-out canoe yourself! 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 where the night will be spent in a beautiful little campsite just 10 km over the Malawi/Zambia border. 

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

From Chipata, the trip will head 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. Tonight there is the option of enjoying a sunset dinner cruise on the mighty Zambezi. 

DAY 20: Livingstone to Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) (B)

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 - a fantastic photo opportunity.  The afternoon is spent relaxing at the campsite’s swimming pool or exploring the many sights and delights of this town!

DAY 21 - 22: Victoria Falls (B on both days)

The next two days are spent relaxing or participating in a myriad of Optional Excursions. Some fellow passengers will leave here to be replaced by new passengers joining for the next leg of the tour.

OPTIONAL excursions include trips into the Zambezi or Hwange National Parks, elephant back safaris, horse back safaris, a visit to a 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 in fixed wing, micro and ultra light aircraft and helicoptors provide an aerial perspective of this magnificent World Heritage Site.  White water rafting on the Zambezi is world class.  Beside the excitement of 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 23: Victoria Falls to Chobe National Park (Botswana) (B / L / D)

After breakfasT the border into Botswana is crossed heading towards Kasane where camp will be set up on the banks of the Chobe River. Listen out for the resident hippos! The Chobe River forms a border between Botswana, Namibia and Zambia. This National Park is one of Botswana’s premier game parks,

renowned for its large elephant herds.  Adventurous spirits can choose to sleep overnight in the Chobe National Park, spending the afternoon in search of wildlife en-route to the set camp within the park where the evening is spent surrounded by the night-time noises of the local wildlife. In the morning the exploration is continued and after stopping off at the camp for lunch to meet the rest of the group for the sunset boat cruise. 

DAY 24: Chobe National Park (B / L / D)

For those not on the sleep-out, today offers the option of an early morning game drive in the Chobe National Park. An early start is followed by a morning spent observing the large herds of wildlife.  After the game drive a return to camp for lunch is made while the late afternoon offers a boat cruise along the Chobe River. Elephant, hippo and many bird species can be viewed from the boat while another glorious African sunset is watched. 

DAY 25: Chobe National Park to Maun (B /L / D)

Today travel is in a south-westerly direction to the southern reaches of the Okavango Delta and the destination, Maun from where the Okavango Delta is explored. 

DAY 26: Maun to Okavango Delta (OPTIONAL) (B / L / D)

The Delta is a huge expanse of water, which has travelled from the Angolan highlands, spreading out to form the largest inland delta in the world. Studded with exotic islands, the Delta is renowned for its incredible variety of bird life and animals and is unique to Southern Africa. Here there is the option of taking a 3 day/ 2 night drive-in mokoro excursion into the Delta.  Leaving Maun and driving north for a couple of hours the mokoro poler’s station is reached.  Mokoros are traditional dug-out canoes manoeuvred through the waterways by local guides who “pole” them through the reeds. After the guides find a place to camp, an afternoon game walk is taken to experience the Delta wilderness. 

DAY 27: Okavango Delta (B /L / D)

A day of rest, relaxation and Delta experiences await. Today there is the opportunity to partake in a number of activities including swimming (dependant on area & water levels), game walks, mokoro cruises and even a chance to try poling your own mokoro! 

DAY 28: Okavango Delta to Maun (B/ L / D)

This morning affords  a final opportunity for a game walk before packing up and setting off back to Maun, arriving back in the early afternoon to have the chance to complete the picture of the Okavango Delta by taking an optional sunset scenic flight over the Delta.

DAY 29: Maun to Rundu (Namibia) (B / L / D)

Following the Kavango River, Northern Namibia is entered, stopping at Rundu for supplies before heading to the spectacular campsite located on the banks of the Kavango River - complete with “open air” facilities and the occasional hippo grazing on the lawn! 

DAY 30: Rundu to Etosha National Park (B / L / D)

From Rundu, the tour will head towards Etosha National Park. Covering 20 000 square kilometres, Etosha is Namibia’s premier nature reserve. Situated around the Etosha Pan with a wide variety of animal and bird life, the extensive network of gravel roads affords the opportunity of accessing even the most remote areas of the park. 

DAY 31: Etosha National Park (B / L / D)

Today will see a drive 150 km across the park, keeping a look out for Etosha’s large herds of desert antelope such as Springbok and the famed Oryx. After a full day of game viewing, the evening is spent relaxing at the camp. 

DAY 32: Etosha National Park to Cheetah Park (B / L / D)

Today’s drive is to the Cheetah Park - a private farm dedicated to conserving Namibia’s cheetah population - getting to meet the resident cheetahs, a photo opportunity not to be missed! 

DAY 33: Cheetah Park to Spitzkoppe (B / L / D)

Following departure from the Cheetah Park the trip will travel to the ‘Matterhorn of Namibia’ - Spitzkoppe. The 1728 m high rock formation, one of Namibia’s most recognised landmarks, is well known as an ancient San sacred site. Explore the surrounding area and its San rock paintings. Tonight will be a bush camp under the African stars. 

DAY 34: Spitzkoppe to Swakopmund (B / L)

Today sees arrival at Swakopmund. Founded by the Germans in 1892, their colonial influence is still evident today. Swakopmund has a selection of excellent coffee shops, restaurants and bars as well as many arts and crafts shops selling Namibian curios. There are fine beaches to walk along as well as a great museum, aquarium and galleries to visit. Accommodation will be in dormitories. Upgrades are possible, but depend on room availability. 

DAYS 35 - 36: Swakopmund (B on both days)

The next two days are spent relaxing or participating in a myriad of Optional Excursions.  Some fellow passengers will leave the tour here, to be replaced by new passengers joining for the final leg of the trek.

Optional excursions include sky diving, quad biking, sand boarding, scenic desert flights, dolphin cruises, fishing trips, golf, horse riding and more. An activity briefing will be held on arrival in Swakopmund.

DAY 37: Swakopmund to Sesriem (B /L / D)

Leaving Swakopmund, and heading south to meet the Atlantic Ocean at Walvis Bay. Continuing the journey, the Namib-Naukluft Park is entered in one of the oldest deserts in the world.  Base will be at Sesriem, a great place to experience the Namib and its many moods. A short distance away is Sossusvlei, surrounded by a dramatic sea of sand dunes reputed to be the highest in the world. Magnificent views of the desert can be seen from the top of the dunes, some over 300 m high. The afternoon will be spent exploring this amazing area. An optional (and must do) excursion is to walk around the area, learning about the amazing history, geology, flora and fauna from the specialised local guides of Sossus on Foot. They also give a glimpse into the cultural legacy of the San people. View the sunset from the top of Dune 45 - a truly memorable experience. 

DAY 38: Sesriem to Fish River Canyon (B / L / D)

After watching the sunrise across this beautiful area the serenity of the dunes will be left behind before heading south to the Fish River Canyon. At 161 km long, 27 km wide and about 550 m deep, it’s the second largest canyon in the world. The outer canyon was formed by tectonic activity, while the erosion of the Fish River formed the inner canyon. A road follows the eastern rim, giving access to several viewing points from where the spectacular vistas can be absorbed.

 

DAY 39: Fish River Canyon to Orange River (South Africa) (B / L / D)

This morning the trek continues south, where, after a short drive, the Orange River is reached - the natural land border between Namibia and South Africa. Camp will be made at a beautiful campsite on the South African bank of the river. This afternoon there will be the option of a half-day canoe trip on the beautiful Orange River, affording the opportunity of some bird watching or just a scenic and relaxing paddle.

DAY 40: Orange River to Cederberg (B / L / D)

An early morning start sees travel south through the Richtersveld before reaching the region known as Namaqualand, well known for its prolific display of Namaqua wildflowers that occur each spring. Tonight is spent in a picturesque campsite surrounded by local wine farms and there will be the opportunity to sample some of the nectar of the gods or to explore the surrounding beautiful Cederberg Mountains. 

DAY 41: Cederberg to Cape Town (B)

The scenic Cederberg area is left to travel south towards Cape Town through the rich fruit growing area of Citrusdal before crossing the Piketberg Pass to the Cape’s wine growing regions. The first sighting of the Mother’s City Table Mountain across Table Bay means that the final destination is in sight.  Tonight’s accommodation is in dormitories in one of Cape Town’s best loved hostels. 

DAY 42: Cape Town

After breakfast, addresses will be exchanged and everyone will part ways, having just experienced a trip of a lifetime! 

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.  Local payments are subject to change with prior notice.  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

Please note that all accommodation and activities in Victoria Falls must be paid for in US$ cash

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 $

Kenya:
Masai Mara Balloon Safari (when available) - $435
Masai Village Visit - $5
Masai Warrior Dancing - $4
Elsamere Visit, Home of Joy Adamson - $10 + transfer fee
Naivasha Hells Gate National Park - $45 including transfer, bike and guide
Naivasha Boat Hire (maximum 7 passengers) - $50 per hour
Naivasha Horse Riding - $15 per hour
Naivasha Crescent Island Tour - $20

Uganda:
Gorilla Trek (excl. transfer and booking fee) - from $600
White Water Rafting on the Nile - $125
Bungee Jump - $65
Jet Boat - 30 minutes - $75
Adrift/Softpower Project - $25
Quad Biking - 2 hours - $70
Horse Riding - 2 hours - $50 + transfer approx $20#
Chimpanzee Sanctuary (5 - 8 passengers) - $50 - $70 + transfer approx $125

South Africa:
Wine Tasting $8
Canoeing on Orange River (minimum 4) - $27 

Namibia:
Sossusvlei Guided Walk 2-3 hours (minimum 8) - $30

Swakopmund:
Quad Biking - 1 hour/2 hours - $59/$85
Sand Boarding  - Lie Down/Stand Up - $45/$60
Township Tour - $70
Tandem Sky Dive (weather permitting) - $320
Horse riding (2 hours) $65
Fishing - $145
Dolphin Cruise - $75
Kayaking - $90
Paragliding (weather permitting) - $135
Scenic Flight (various - weather permitting) - as per Operator
Hot Air Ballooning (weather permitting_ - $420

*Although traveller’s cheques are accepted for the Serengeti/Ngorongoro Excursions, they are subject to a surcharge of at least 5%.

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 trip 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 the trip companions.

Accommodation and Meals

The trips 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 will be the choice at extra cost to upgrade to a bed if desired.  Occasionally, when it is impossible 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 your trip, although passengers may have 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, which is 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.  Make sure you arrive in plenty of time for this trip, to allow for flights delays.  We offer help with organising local accommodation 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

Fees

What is included

• Fully equipped expedition truck/vehicle

• All cooking and camping equipment

• Meals as indicated

• Game park fees and excursions as detailed in the itinerary

• Trip leader and safari cook

What is excluded

• Sleeping bag and mat

• Personal travel insurance

• Visas

• Items of a personal nature

• Optional excursions which are detailed below

• Restaurant meals and drinks