Description
(26 Days)Cape Town to Johannesburg via Zimbabwe Safari Tour Comfort
Itinerary
Day 1
Cape Town – Cederberg Region, South Africa
Leaving Cape Town this morning, we stop and take a look at Table Mountain from across Table Bay before making our way to the Cederberg region. On route we stop at a traditional “Padstal” that sells homemade treats and bakes. Boasting some of the most picturesque mountains and orange farms, Cederberg is also home to the Rooibos tea farm which is world renowned for it’s health benefits and unique taste. We enjoy dinner at our overnight stop where we have an opportunity to experience South African hospitality at it’s best.
The Cederberg Mountains and nature reserve are situated nearby Clanwilliam. They were named after the endangered ancient Clanwilliam Cedar trees which are indigenous to the area, growing up to heights of over 1500 metres. The mountains spread up to 50 kilometres both north and south, and up to 20 kilometres both east and west with the highest summit within the range being Sneeuberg at 2028 metres. This region comprises of intense sandstone rock formations, usually various shades of red in colour. The Cederberg Wilderness Area is renowned for containing incredible ancient San rock art. It is also well-known for the discovery of significant fossils, specifically within recent years. These fossils are of primitive fish and can be dated back almost 450 million years to the Ordovician Period.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Marcuskraal Campsite
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Cape Town to Citrusdal ±270 km
Meals: Lunch. Dinner
Included Highlight: Traditional Dinner
Day 2
Namaqualand – Gariep (Orange) River, South Africa
Today we journey through the Northern Cape and Namaqualand, making a stop off at the isolated town of Springbok to gather a few last minute supplies. Once we have crossed the Namibian border, we arrive at our charming chalets that overlook the sparkling Orange River which creates a natural divider between South Africa and Namibia. For those travelling during the spring months (July – September) you may experience the wild flowers renowned in this region.
Originally called the Nu Gariep (‘Great River’) by the native Nama people, the Orange River was renamed by Colonel Robert Gordon – a Dutch explorer who once commanded the Cape garrison for several years. It is said that Gordon named the river in honour of William of Orange, but a more popular belief is that it was simply named so because of its colour. Presently, it is known by its original name (Gariep River) and it the longest river throughout South Africa, stretching to a distance of 1800 kilometres. Rising in the Drakensberg mountains in Lesotho, where it is known as Sengu, it flows west through South Africa and out into the Atlantic Ocean once it reaches Alexander Bay. On its lengthy voyage, the river boasts a wide selection of beautiful landscapes. It passes through rough mountainous terrains and never-ending dune fields. The Orange forms part of the international border that runs between South Africa and Namibia, South Africa and Lesotho, and numerous provincial borders within South Africa.
Though the river does not run through any main cities, it plays a crucial role within the economy of South Africa by providing water to be used for irrigation and hydroelectric power. The Orange River is also responsible for diamond deposits all along the coast of Namibia. For millions of years this river acted as a transportation system that took diamonds from volcanic pipes within Kimberley, South Africa out into the ocean. From here, currents would take the diamonds north where the surf would catch them and place them into the Namib dune fields.
Accommodation: Two per room: Felix Unite Cabanas or Bundi
Facilities: En-suites Per Room. Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Citrusdal to Orange River ±500 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Border Post South Africa: Vioolsdrift, Tel: +27 (27) 277 618 760, Open 24 hours. Namibia: Noordoewer, Tel: +264 (0) 63 297 122, Open 24 hours.
Day 3
Namibia – Gariep (Orange) River , South Africa
We have an opportunity to partake in an optional canoe trip down the Gariep River this morning, or we could choose to stay behind and devote our time to relax and unwind next to the river. Later in the day, we make our way back to Ai-Ais to check in to our lodging for the night and to delight in the marvellous hot springs offered by our resort.
Meaning ‘burning water’ in the local language of Nama, Ai-Ais refers to the sulphurous thermal hot water springs situated at the bottom of the mountains and at Fish River Canyon’s southern end. The Ai-Ais (pronounced ‘eye-ice’) springs originate from deep beneath the river bed and create a haven in this extremely dry area. The hot springs were used by the German military troops as a base camp during the Nama uprising. This area was once again used as a base in 1915 by South African troops who were healing from injuries incurred during the South-West Africa Campaign. The springs were declared national monuments in the 1960s and subsequently became a conservation area. The Ai-Ais camp was officially opened on the 16th of March, 1971. The hot water, heavy with sulphur, chloride and fluoride, has an average temperature of approximately 60 degrees Celsius and is known to be a relaxing curative.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Ai Ais Resort
Facilities: En-suites Per Room 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
Included Highlight: Ais-Ais Hot springs
Day 4
Fish River Canyon, Quiver Tree Forest and Giants Playground, Namibia
Waking early this morning, we drive to the rim of the Fish River Canyon enjoying the beautiful sunrise in this magical piece of land. We also enjoy a walk along the rim of the canyon before making our way to Keetmanshoop. The afternoon is spent exploring the magnificent Quiver Tree Forest and the Giants Playground.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Schutzenhaus Guesthouse
Facilities: En-suites Bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route : Fish River Canyon to Keetmanshoop ±260 km
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, Namibia
Every journey has long travelling days and today we will venture deep into the Namib Desert. We make our way from the grasslands to the red dunes that cover the western reaches of the desert. Our accommodation this evening is at the tip of the dune fields where we enjoy the unique sounds of the Barking Gecko as we fall asleep.
Accommodation: Two Per Permanent Tent: Namib Naukluft Habitat OR Desert Camp
Facilities: En Suite Bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Keetmanshoop to Namib Naukluft National Park ±470 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6
Sossusvlei Dunes – Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia
We begin our day climbing Dune 45 enjoying the magnificent views before making our way back down for a delicious breakfast. We hop onto a 4×4 and are transferred to Sossusvlei where you will embark on a walk through the salt pans at Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. Tonight we spend some time admiring the breathtaking view of the desert stars.
Accommodation: Two Per Room Namib Naukluft Lodge or Desert Camp
Facilities: En-suite bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Sesriem Canyon / Hike up Dune 45, 4×4 shuttle to Sossusvlei / Deadvlei
Day 7 – 8
Swakopmund
Today we enjoy an educational desert excursion with our local guide before leaving the Namib and crossing the Tropic of Capricorn on the way from the Atlantic Coast. We stop briefly in Walvis Bay at the lagoon before arriving at our next destination for the evening. There is a variety of activities available in Swakopmund. The following day is free to enjoy and participate in the multiple adventure activities available here. You can also spend your time exploring the city at leisure or simply enjoy some shopping before venturing to our next destination.
Accommodation: Two per room Stay@Swakop OR Haus Garnison
Facilities: 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 x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2
Included Highlight: Walvis Bay Lagoon, Tropic of Capricorn, Guided desert walk with local expert
Optional Activity: Dolphin cruise, Skydiving, Sandboarding, Quad biking
Day 9
Spitzkoppe – Brandberg, Namibia
We start the day early and travel to the vast granite formations of Spitzkoppe. Here, we take a walk with our local guide to view the magnificent rock art of the San people, before making our way back and retiring for the night.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Brandberg White Lady Lodge or Uis White Lady
Facilities: En-suite bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Swakopmund to Brandberg (via Spitzkoppe) ±320 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Visit and explore Spitzkoppe with a local guide
Day 10
Brandberg White Lady, Namibia
Recognised as the highest mountain in Namibia, the Brandberg (Burning Mountains) has more than 45 000 rock paintings in the area. In the morning we embark on an hour long hike to pay a visit to the ancient rock paintings in the area. After exploring we make our way to the Kamanjab are where we spend our evening. An optional excursion is available in the afternoon for those wanting to visit the educational centre showcasing the lifestyle of the Himba Tribe.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Toko Lodge OR Etotongwe
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Brandberg to Kamanja
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Brandberg White Lady hike
Day 11 – 12
Etosha National Park, Namibia
Today we rise early and make our way to Etosha National Park. Etosha means ‘Great White Place’ and is dominated by an enormous salt pan which makes up part of the mighty Kalahari Basin. Originally a lake nourished by the Kunene River, the Etosha pan spreads across an entire quarter of the Etosha National Park where you will have one of the most incredible game viewing experiences. We then make our way back to retire for the evening. On our second day in Etosha, we spend more time exploring the park and the edges of the Etosha Pan where we will have an opportunity to take some fantastic pictures.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: NWR: Halali or NWR: Okaukuejo
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Etosha National Park
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2
Included Highlight: Afternoon Game Drive in the truck, Full Day Game drive in truck
Day 13
Windhoek, Namibia
With an early start to the day, we travel onto Windhoek, Namibia’s capital. Upon our arrival in Windhoek, we embark on a brief walking tour around the city and view some of the famous landmarks. Our accommodation this evening is located between the city and the airport.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Heja Game Lodge
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Etosha National Park to Windhoek ±450 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Walk through Windhoek with your guide
Day 14
Ghanzi, Botswana
Today we travel east to Botswana and the Kalahari Desert which covers of 900 000 square kilometres. A guided walk with the San community provides us with insight into the harsh climate and San people. In the evening we experience some traditional dance, songs and story-telling.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Ghanzi Trail Blazers
Facilities: En-suite bathroom 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 Guided Walk (could take place the next morning) / San Tribal dance in evening
Border Post Namibia: Buitepos, Tel: +264 62 560401, Open: 07h00-24h00, Botswana: Mamanu, Tel: +267 (0) 659 2013/2064, Open: 07h00-24h00
Day 15 – 16
Okavango Delta and Khwai Conservation Area, Botswana
Rising early in the morning, we make our way towards Maun. Upon arrival, there is an optional scenic flight over the Delta (time and weather permitting).
After your optional flight, the group is collected from a meeting point in Maun and taken on an incredible journey into the Khwai Conservation area in smaller safari vehicles.
After dinner, our guide will explain what we can expect for our mokoro excursion into the Okavango Delta and our game drive in Khwai.
The next morning is early morning and for good reason, as we make our way to the poling station and meet our polers who will be guiding us through the waterways of the Delta.
Your polers are experienced and knowledgeable when it comes to exploring the narrow, reed-filled channels that eventually open into large lagoons, where you will have the opportunity of watching hippos in their natural environment and hopefully see some spectacular bird species before embarking on a walking trail on one of the many islands within the delta before heading back to the poling station and then camp.
It’s important to know that the walking trail and the mokoro trip is not primarily focused on game viewing but rather another unique experience enjoyed in the heart of Botswana.
After lunch, we return to Khwai Conservation area for a well-deserved game drive that’s conducted by professional guides in 4×4 vehicles, where you stand the chance of seeing amazing wildlife (route might change due to certain roads being flooded).
Accommodation: Camp: Two Permanent Tent with Ensuite Bathroom Magotho / Bogo Campsite (no website available)
Facilities: Shared Ablutions
Route: Ghanzi via Maun to Khwai Conservation Area
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2
Included Highlight: Okavango Delta Morning Mokoro Excursion / Khwai Conservation Afternoon Game Driven
Optional Activity: Okavango Delta scenic flight
Day 17
Savuti, Botswana
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Thebe River Safaris
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Khwai Conservation Area – via Savuti Game Reserve – Kasane (long day ±6-8 hours)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Activity: Full Day Game Drive through Savuti Game Reserve in 4×4 safari vehicles
Day 18
Chobe National Park, Botswana
We make our way to Kasane where the afternoon is spent exploring the Chobe National Park. We are treated to a relaxing sunset river cruise on the Chobe River (situated within the National Park) when we will be able to spot plenty of beautiful animals on the riverbanks, such as hippo, buffalo and elephants. We end the evening with a delicious meal around a fire.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Thebe River Lodge
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Nata to Kasane ±315 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Chobe National Park boat cruise
Optional Activity: Chobe National Park Game Drive
Day 19 – 20
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
We make our way to Victoria Falls town where we have some time to prepare for our activities for the following day, before visiting the incredible Victoria Falls and experiencing the thunderous and powerful Zambezi. The evening can be spent enjoying an optional dinner out. Majority of our group will spend the next day white water rafting (a thrill not to be missed!), however there are various alternatives offered by Victoria Falls, such as a walk with lions or a bungee jump from the bridge that merges Zimbabwe and Zambia.
At 1700 metres wide and 108 metres high, Victoria Falls is said to be the biggest falls in the world. According to popular beliefs, Scottish explorer David Livingstone was the very first European to stand witness to the mighty Victoria Falls and wrote: “It has never been seen before by European eyes, but scenes so wonderful must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight.” The local name of Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning ‘the smoke that thunders’, is used as the official name in Zambia. Because of its enormous power and size, the Falls are embellished with countless mythologies. It is believed by the local Tonga people of Zambezi that a river god, Nyaminyami, lives in the water in the shape of a gigantic snake.
The Zambezi River flooded thrice when the Kariba Dam was constructed in the 1950s, causing numerous deaths and much devastation. The locals believe that Nyaminyami became angry with the building of the Dam and thus was the entity that caused the horrendous floods. The peculiar form of Victoria Falls allows its entire width to be seen face-on from as near as 60 metres to the Falls due to the Zambezi River dropping into a deep and narrow slot-like fissure connected to a lengthy sequence of ravines. There are very few waterfalls in the world that permit this close of an approach on foot.
The Falls are created by the entire width of the river plummeting in a solitary vertical drop into a 120 metre wide chasm, whittled by the cascading waters along a breakage area in the basalt plateau. The chasm called the First Gorge varies from 80 metres deep at its west end to 108 metres in its centre. The only opening to the First Gorge is though a gap 110 metres wide, approximately two-thirds of the way across the width of the Falls from the western end, through which the entire volume of the river spills into the gorges of the Victoria Falls. Two islands, Boaruka and Livingstone, are situated on the peak of the Falls. They are big enough to divide the sheet of water, even at full flood. At less than full flood, other islands perform the task of dividing the curtain of water into dispersed parallel streams. The main streams are known as Leaping Water, Devil’s Cataract, Main Falls, Rainbow Falls (the tallest) and the Eastern Cataract.
Accommodation: Two per room: Vic Falls Rainbow Hotel
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2
Optional Activities: Visit the Vic Falls, Zambezi Sunset Cruise, Bungee Jump, Helicopter Flights, White Water Rafting, Gorge Swing
Day 21 – 22
Victoria Falls to Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
Leaving Victoria Falls, we make our way to the Hwange National Park. After lunch we set out to explore the park. The national park is home to a large variety of elephant populations as well as other mammalian species. Also it is one of the largest parks in Zimbabwe. The evening is spent around campfire.
The following day you will be collected from the accommodation and spend the day game driving in an open 4×4 vehicle through the Hwange National Park in search of the Big-5.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Hwange Main Camp
Facilities: En-Suite Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Victoria Falls to Hwange National Park ±119km, Hwange National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch x2, Dinner x2
Included Highlight: Full day Hwange National Park game drive
Optional Activity: Victoria Falls National Park Entry, Hwange Sundowner Drive
Day 23
Matobo National Park, Zimbabwe
The following day we make our way to the Matobo National Park which is situated in the magnificent Matobo Hills. The Hills have been sculpted a million years ago and is the site of various exquisite Bushman paintings. We explore the park in the afternoon with our guide before making our way to the accommodation for the evening which is located in Bulawayo.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Travellers Guest House
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Hwange National Park to (Bulawayo) Matopos National Park ±317 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Afternoon Game Drive in Matobo National Park
Day 24
Great Zimbabwe Ruins, Zimbabwe
Your tour would not be complete without paying a visit to the famous Great Zimbabwe Ruins, a world renowned site. Also home to eight carved Zimbabwe birds, which is represented on the Zimbabwean National Flag. We spend the afternoon on a guided walking tour of the ancient site, taking us back to the Iron age, this UNESCO world heritage site was previously the capital of Zimbabwe.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Norma Jeans Lake View Resort
Facilities: En suites Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: (Bulawayo) Matobo National Park to Great Zimbabwe Ruins (Masvingo) ±340km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Included Highlight: Visit to the Great Zimbabwe Ruins
Day 25
Tshipise, South Africa
Making our way across the border out of Zimbabwe, we enter the Limpopo Province of South Africa. Developed in 1936, the name originates from the word chia fisu which means ‘burn, be hot’ referring to the hot springs at 65°C. We spend the night at the hot springs of Tshipise.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Forever Tshipise Resort
Facilities: En-suite Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Great Zimbabwe Ruin (Masvingo)s to Tshipise ±422km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Tshipise Hot Springs
Border Post: Beitbridge Border Post +263 862 2303 / 2366 +27 (015) 530-0066 / 71 website: http://www.zimra.co.z
Day 26
Johannesburg, South Africa
Waking early this morning we make our way to the City of gold, most commonly known as the heartbeat of the country. The city has been rebuilt four times within a century and has evolved from tented camps to four story high buildings. Belvedere Estate offers a traditional optional meal on your last evening in South Africa and can be booked through your guide. Your tour ends here.
Accommodation: Own Arrangements / Post tour accommodation can be booked through your guide.
Route: Tshipise to Johannesburg ±485 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Optional Activity: Traditional meal at Belvedere Estate
Onward Travel Plans
Due to circumstances beyond our control while on tour (such as border crossings, traffic, breakdowns and delays, etc), the end time on the last day cannot be guaranteed. Therefore we strongly recommend you stay the night and fly out the next day. Please consult with your booking consultant.
Pre Departure
Important Touring Tips:
- The itinerary is a guide ONLY and is subject to change
- There is a mix of different nationalities, ages and cultures on every tour
- Space in the truck is limited – PLEASE DON’T BRING TOO MUCH LUGGAGE!
- The tours are high adventure tours, so don’t expect European Coach tours or lodge safaris
- The tours are often created in a circular route i.e. where one tour ends, another begins
- The rate is the same throughout the year
- Should you be travelling to Kenya. The Kenya government has instituted a Zero Tolerance on usage of All Plastic Bags. On the spot fines (400 USD) are being issued.
What are adventure tours?
These are adventure tours perfect for people who enjoy camping and the outdoors. You get to experience the “real Africa” by camping out at night, sitting around the campfire, taking in beautiful scenery, visiting local shops and getting to know the locals.v
What is a typical day?
A typical day on either your camping or accommodated Africa overland tour starts with an early morning wake-up call and a cup of tea or coffee followed by breakfast. Campers pack-up their campsite while comfort travellers check-out of their accommodation and hit the road.
We set off to our next destination travelling through a vast variety of landscapes, making our own new memories with new friends. Each day in Africa offers a new experience from an early morning sunrise hike, quad biking, sky dive or guided nature walk. The options are endless!
We have shorter travel days arriving at our campsite by midday or early afternoon, to enjoy lunch before joining our afternoon activity or simply enjoying a relaxed afternoon at your own pace.
On our longer travel days an early start ensures an earlier arrival at our campsite. We stop off at scenic spots to stretch our legs and take in the scenery, before lunch is enjoyed at a shady spot en-route. A mid- to-late afternoon arrival at our campsite allows us to set up camp, enjoy a beautiful sunset and end the day sitting around the campfire, under the stars.
Our best advice: expect the unexpected as this is Africa! We travel mainly on gravel roads and poorly kept tarmac roads – both setting the pace at which we travel. We do our best to arrive at our next destination, safety is our number one priority and while our overland vehicles are comfortable and spacious, they are not sports cars!
What type of vehicles do we use?
- A custom-built, comfortable, safe and self-sufficient Africa overland truck to withstand the rugged African terrain.
- Various vehicles are used on varying tours, with each offering comfortable seats with ample leg room.
- Each vehicle has large glass windows for uninterrupted views and perfect for game drives.
- Smaller 4×4 land cruiser type vehicles are used for game viewing in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, due to the roads being tougher and too narrow for the overland trucks.
- Each overland vehicle includes a passenger safe to safely keep money + passports + flight tickets + credit cards. The keys are kept with your Tour Leader who will advise of safety requirements in place concerning the safe.Who is suited to go on an adventure tour?
- Almost anyone can go on an adventure.
Some level of fitness is required due to accessing the vehicle and spending long days on bumpy roads (can take it out of you).EAST AFRICA TOURS require a more adventurous, fearless attitude and are suited to a younger traveller.
If you are planning to trek with the Mountain Gorillas or climbing Mount Killi you will need to have a higher fitness level.
WHAT TO EXPECT ON A CAMPING OR ACCOMMODATED TOUR
Camping Tours:
A camping safari is for travellers who want a hands-on experience of Mother Nature. The guide(s) will do most of the work, but you will be required to assist with various tasks such as preparing the food, washing up, cleaning out the truck and setting up the campsite and your tent. If you dream of a lifetime African adventure, embark on a journey with us sleeping under the stars while listening to the sounds of wildlife in the distance.
We offer camping safaris suited to travellers who may prefer to travel in a younger group (aged 18 to 39). Or, you can choose a mixed age group (18 to 60). A camping safari must not be underestimated and will require active participation which means good health and a fair degree of fitness. We have a tour to suit what you have in mind, so please do not hesitate to enquire with us.
During an African camping safari you will stay in large two-man dome canvas tents which are spacious enough for two adults and your luggage. Or, you can opt to have your own tent by including the single supplement (valid on select camping tours).
Your tents are put up and taken down easily – your Tour Leader will show you exactly how to do this and help out when you are unsure. All tents are well-ventilated by means of a tent-door and window, covered with mosquito net. They also include a fly-sheet for the rain.
Most camping safaris include a sleeping mat (please do check with us upon enquiry). You need to bring your own sleeping bag, pillow and towel. All meals are prepared at the truck and you will be required to assist with the preparation.
The African campsites are basic and comfortable and you will be able to upgrade your accommodation at most of the places, but this is subject to availability. Most have warm showers and flushing ablutions, while others may have natural ablutions. Some places visited are bush camps where there are no facilities.
Accommodated Tours:
Accommodated safaris are ideal for travellers who prefer to experience African wildlife and adventure with extra comforts. You are surrounded by vast landscapes and wildlife, curiously roaming at your door-step. It is comfort, without the price tag!
Our accommodated safaris make use of a combination of lodges, hostels, bungalows, chalets, permanent safari camps, hotels and traditional huts. Our properties are ideally located at each destination for an authentic experience with incredible views.
We book Twin rooms if you are travelling with a partner or friend and Single rooms for single travellers (including single supplement). Most of the time we stay in 1-3 star properties with en-suite bathrooms in Southern Africa. In Eastern Africa we offer a combination of en-suite and shared bathrooms. In the case of shared bathrooms, you will be sharing with friends on your tour. Please bring your own towels as these are not always provided.
Select accommodated safaris include a camp assistant to help out with the smaller aspects of your vacation.
The standard of the properties varies along the trip. The Southern Africa properties are much more established than the East Africa accommodation. They vary from basic (but comfortable) to lovely properties. Due to the remote nature of the trips, accommodation choices are limited.
Distances and Road Conditions:
Our tours cover long distances so you can see significant amounts of Africa this means that there will be long days spent on the road often with nothing to look at except vast open plains. You can spend between 350km and 650km a day in the truck so it is important to be prepared.
What will you eat on safari?
Our Africa overland vehicles are fully stocked with dry goods at the start of each tour. We buy fresh produce (fruit and vegetables) almost daily to ensure fresh, good quality and tasty meals. Over the summer months fresh produce is not always available due to the heat and humidity, especially in East Africa and Mozambique – so we may have to skip tomatoes from lunch or opt for rice instead of potatoes at dinner.
Each Africa overland camping and accommodated tour include meals as per the itinerary. Often, we may only include breakfast and lunch, allowing you to enjoy dinner at a local market or restaurant. Drinks such as tea, coffee and fruit juice is included with every meal, but exclude bottle water, beer, soft drinks, alcohol etc. – these can be bought en-route or at your campsite bar.
We do cater for most dietary requirements (allergies, vegetarian, lactose-intolerant). Other requirements (gluten-free) may be more challenging on remote routes (i.e. East Africa) where starch is a stable-food in Africa. Please do speak to us about your dietary requirements and we will advise according to your trip. You will be amazed by the variety of tasty meals prepared on an open-fire!
Almost all your meals are pre-prepared over an open campfire or on the gas stove in your overland vehicle. All cooking equipment such as pots, pans, cutlery and crockery is included for you. Excellent hygiene standards are maintained at all times preparing food and washing up of kitchen equipment. Your guides will provide you with a separate washing up basin to wash hands in warm soapy water before and after each meal.
Our camping tours are limited participation tours, whereby we ask you to help out with daily chores (putting up / taking down tents) and help out your guides at meal times (rinsing, chopping vegetables).
So what are the meals like on tour? We have included a few meal options as a guideline:
Breakfast:
Tea/coffee and juice + cereals + bread/toast + fruit. Take 2 fruits and keep one for a mid-morning snack. An occasional cooked breakfast (bacon, pancakes, eggs) is made when you have more time to allow for this (normally when you spend 2 nights at the same destination).
Lunch:
Juice + bread + cheese + cold meats + salads + fruit (make a sandwich for a mid-afternoon snack)
Juice + fresh rolls + green salad (or rice salad or pasta salad) + fruit.
Dinner:
Tea/coffee and juice + chicken curry + rice, grilled or roast chicken + salad + garlic roll, grilled chicken + vegetables + salad, fish braai + salad, steak + veggies, pasta, stir-fry + rice, casserole, braai (barbeque) + salads + jacket potatoes, soup + fresh rolls.
Drinks:
Tea, coffee and cordial drinks are supplied with meals but other cooldrinks and alcohol can be purchased along the way.
What about children on tour?
- Due to the nature of overland tours the minimum age limit is 18. Younger travellers (10 to 17) travelling with a parent(s) will be considered on a case-by-case basis depending on the tour, time of travel and tour availability. We do have select tours offering Family Departures, suited for children aged 10 to 17.
- Privately arranged charter tours’ age limits will be assessed based on the route and type of tour you choose.
- Please bear in mind that the Gorilla Trekking tours have a minimum age limit of 16 years.
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