Overland tours africa African Dream Johannesburg to Dar Es Salaam South Africa Zimbabwe Zambia Malawi Tanzania Overland trips to Africa Career Break Gap Year africa

AFRICAN DREAM – 26 DAYS
JOHANNESBURG TO DAR ES SALAAM

Taking in the vast beauty of the Kruger National Park, exploring the history and wildlife of Zimbabwe, standing metres away from one of the world's natural wonders and spending time on the 'lake of stars' in Malawi, this safari has a diverse range of highlights. From South Africa's powerhouse of Johannesburg to the tropical island of Zanzibar, the trip travels south to north through varying landscapes. There's a lot to do including adventure activities, scuba diving, fishing, spice tours or simply chilling on the beach. The trip departs from Johannesburg early on Wednesday morning. Anyone wishing to explore Johannesburg should plan an earlier arrival. Accommodation can be arranged through Amanzi Travel.

Location:

JOHANNESBURG TO DAR ES SALAAM

Dates:

Departs regularly

Fees:

£710 - 26 days
USD 575 - Local Payment

Payment:

£180 deposit at time of booking – balance payment of project fee due 12 weeks before departure

Reference:

AT024

General Information

Start and finish points: Johannesburg to Dar Es Salaam
Countries visited: South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi and Tanzania
Departure Point Johannesburg: Backpackers Ritz, 1A North Road, Dunkeld West
Check-in time: 7.00 am (departure 7.30 am)
Pre-Departure Meeting: 5.00 pm the day before at the departure point

Itinerary

DAY 1: Johannesburg to Hazyview (L / D)

Leaving Johannesburg the trip heads towards the Lowveld and the famous Kruger National Park passing through the southern section of the picturesque Panorama Route – famous for its breathtaking vistas on the way. Camp for the next two nights is just 8 km from the Kruger’s Numbi Gate and a relaxing evening is spent around the camp fire before the game drive tomorrow.

DAY 2: Hazyview (B / L / D)

Today sees an exploration of the amazing Kruger National Park. Covering over 21,000 km2, this conservation area has more than 146 mammals, 500 bird, 114 reptile, 33 amphibian and 49 fish species. Twenty-three thousand different types of plants have been recorded. The day is spent driving around the park looking for a few of these and there is the option of doing a night drive looking for a few of the nocturnal inhabitants.

DAY 3: Hazyview to Graskop (B / L / D)

After a quick replenishing of stocks he Lowveld is left behind before heading up to the beautiful small town of Graskop and from this gateway in Mpumulanga some of the best scenery in South Africa will be seen including the ever striking Blyde River Canyon and God’s Window. The many viewpoints of the Canyon, afford excellent photo opportunities. Tents will be set up on the lush green grass of the camp before enjoying a dip in the lovely swimming pool. Graskop’s night life is something to be enjoyed and there will be an opportunity to experience it for those who wish to.

DAY 4: Graskop to Musina (B / L / D)

Today the journey to Zimbabwe begins - a long, relaxing drive where passengers get to sit back and enjoy the ever changing scenery. Tonight camp will be in one of the hottest towns in South Africa, Musina. Born in the copper mining era, it withered into a ghost town after the closing of these mines. However, the resurgence of the mining industry has seen it flourish once more and today it is an interesting town steeped in history.

DAY 5: Musina to Masvingo (Zimbabwe) (B / L / D)

Today Zimbabwe is entered - a beautiful country rich in soul, culture and tradition - arriving at the town of Masvingo - on the outskirts of the Great Zimbabwe Ruins. This was the greatest medieval city in sub-Saharan Africa, built by an ancient highly skilled civilization. The name Zimbabwe is derived from this ancient city and means “great stone houses” in Shona. There will be time to wander around these amazing ruins, before setting up camp.

DAY 6: Masvingo to Gweru (B / L / D)

Leaving Masvingo, the group will travel north to Gweru, in Zimbabwe’s Midlands for a stop over at Antelope Park. It is said “you have not been to Zimbabwe until you have visited the Victoria Falls…and the Antelope Park.” A wide variety of game viewing opportunities is available in this area inhabited by lion, elephant, giraffe and obviously numerous antelope! There will be the unique option to walk with lions, ride or swim with elephants, view game from horse back or from the back of a vehicle.

DAY 7: Gweru (B / L / D)

Today is spent enjoying personal encounters with Africa’s wildlife.

DAY 8: Gweru to Bulawayo (B / L / D)

Leaving Gweru, the group will head to Bulawayo - Zimbabwe’s second largest city which is noted for its exceptionally wide streets, which were originally designed to accommodate a full span ox wagon. The city also still retains much of its British Colonial character, evident by the many buildings maintained as heritage sites by the Bulawayo City Council. Interesting places to visit are the Natural History Museum, the National Arts Gallery and the Mzilikazi Arts and Crafts Centre, which employs over 70 people.

DAY 9: Bulawayo (B / L / D)

Today Matobo National Park is visited, one of the last strongholds of both the black and the white rhino. This park is also well known for its high concentration of the elusive leopard and majestic black eagle. Rock paintings are to be found too, providing evidence of the ancient San inhabitants of this area. Cecil John Rhodes (after whom Rhodesia was named) asked to be buried at the top of one of the sacred hills, (although there is some controversy over whether he will stay!) The day will be spent exploring this unique geological, ecological and historic area.

DAY 10: Bulawayo to Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) (B / L)

Leaving Bulawayo to head to Victoria Falls - Africa’s adventure capital, to set up camp in the town’s centrally located campsite. 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 Victoria Falls National Park, Zimbabwe and the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Zambia. Each offers fantastic photo opportunities. The afternoon is spent relaxing at the campsite’s swimming pool or exploring the many sights and delights of this town!

DAYS 11 - 12: Victoria Falls

The next two days are spent relaxing or participating in a myriad of Optional Excursions. Victoria Falls are one of the most memorable sights on this African safari. All year round, flights can be taken in fixed wing planes, micro lights or helicopters. Back on the ground, the falls can be seen from the Victoria Falls National Park with its many viewing points or from the Zambian side. All offer fantastic photographic opportunities. White water rafting in the Batoka Gorge is considered to be world class. Besides the excitement of the grade 5 rapids, there are the "floats", where there is time to admire the scenic cliffs and occasional wildlife on the riverbanks.

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!

DAY 13: Victoria Falls to Livingstone (Zambia) (B / L / D)

To-day the group will leave Zimbabwe and cross the Victoria Falls Bridge and the Zambezi River, entering into Zambia at the town of Livingstone where there is the opportunity to view The Falls from the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Zambia. Another fantastic photo opportunity. The day affords the opportunity to participate in the activities available in Zambia and this evening there is the option of enjoying a sunset dinner cruise on the mighty Zambezi.

DAY 14: Livingstone to Lusaka (B / L / D)

An early morning start sees the group head north through southern Zambia to the campsite on the outskirts of Zambia’s capital city, Lusaka. The campsite is home to some local wildlife including the largest antelope – Eland.

DAY 15: Lusaka to Chipata (B / L / D)

From Lusaka the trip will head north east to a beautiful little campsite just 10 km before the Zambia/Malawi border where the night will be spent before heading into Malawi.

DAYS 16 - 20: Chipata to Lake Malawi Beaches (Malawi) (B / L / D)

Leaving Zambia the group will cross into Malawi, the ‘Warm Heart of Africa’ and stop off in the capital, Lilongwe, a small city distinctively divided into the old town and the new administrative centre. Malawi is a landlocked country with 20% of its total area made up of beautiful Lake Malawi. The full length of the western side of the lake will be travelled stopping off at various bays and inlets over the next five days where it will be possible to learn the game of bao from the locals, scour the markets for a bargain or simply relax on the pristine beaches. Malawi’s temperate climate allows for swimming in the clear blue fresh-water lake all year round. Explore the beautiful shore and see 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 21: Lake Malawi to Iringa (Tanzania) (B / L / D)

After a relaxing five days, it will be time to leave Malawi and enter Tanzania through the border post at Songwe. Taking in the beauty of the Tukuyu tea and banana plantations, the group will head towards Iringa to spend the night in the beautiful rustic ‘Farmhouse’ campsite famous for its Amarula Hot Chocolates and its steamy showers!

DAY 22: Iringa to Dar es Salaam (B / L / D)

The next morning travel will be to Dar es Salaam 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. On arrival in Dar es Salaam, the lovely seaside campsite will be reached and preparations made for the departure to Zanzibar the next morning.

DAY 23: Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar (B)

A ferry is taken from Dar es Salaam 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 tour to replace those that’ll leave at the end of the excursion to Zanzibar.

PLEASE NOTE: Accommodation and meals are not provided whilst on Zanzibar, as xperience has shown that passengers prefer to explore the island on their own. The Trip Leader is available and can arrange accommodation, while meals can be enjoyed from a wide selection of restaurants.

DAYS 24 - 25: 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 if you’d like 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 26: Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam

Leaving Zanzibar, and return to the mainland where addresses will be exchanged before parting 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. All local payments are subject to change with prior notice. Due to tourism laws in some countries visited there may be a truck and crew change during the trip.

Optional Excursions

South Africa:
Kruger National Park - Game Drive - $45

Victoria Falls : (Activities here must be paid for in cash or travellers cheques only)
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

Gweru:
Walk with Lions - $55
Night Lion Encounter - $105
Elephant Back Swim (seasonal) - $30
Game Viewing on horseback - $25
Game Viewing on elephant back - $30
Game Viewing on foot - $15
Game Viewing by vehicle - $30
Canoeing - $5
Sunset/Sunrise Boat Trip - $25
Breeding Programme Tour - $15

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

Tanzania, Zanzibar:
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

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

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 the 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

International flights can easily be arranged into South Africa's Johannesberg International Airport. Be sure to arrive in plenty of time for this trip, to allow for flights delays, as the truck will leave early on the day of departure.

(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