(36 Day) Cape Town to Victoria Falls & Mozambique Tour Camping
Min: 2-100
Duration: 36 Days
Price: EUR 5300
(36 Day) Cape Town to Victoria Falls & Mozambique Tour Camping
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. Boasting some of the most picturesque mountains and orange farms. Cederberg is home to the famous 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: Camp: Marcuskraal Campsite
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Cape Town to Citrusdal ±195 km
Meals: Lunch, 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 be fortunate enough to experience the wild flowers renowned in this region.
Originally called the Nu Gariep (‘Great River’) by the native Nama people, the Orange River was named 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: Camp: Fiddlers Creek Campsite
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Citrusdal to Vioolsdrift ±509 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Spring Wild Flowers (Seasonal July – September)
Day 3
Namibia – Gariep (Orange) River – Fish River Canyon, South Africa
We have an opportunity to partake in an optional canoe trip down the Orange River this morning, or we could choose to stay behind and devote our time to relax and unwind next to the river. After lunch we leave the Orange River and make our way inland, crossing the border to Namibia. We make a brief stop at Ai-Ais for a dip in the mineral hot springs before arriving at our camp for the evening.
Meaning ‘burning water’ in the local language of Nama, Ai-Ais refers to the sulfurous 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 sulfur, chloride and fluoride, has an average temperature of approximately 60 degrees Celcius and is known to be a relaxing curative.
Accommodation: Camp: NWR Hobas Campsite
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Orange/Gariep River to Fish River Canyon ±180 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Activity: Half-day canoe trip
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 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 and 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: Campsite: Seeheim Hotel
Facilities: Shared Ablutions 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 making our way from the grasslands to the red dunes that cover the western reaches of the desert. Our camp 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: Camp: NWR Sesriem campsite or similar.
Facilities: Shared Ablutions 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
Included Highlight: Sesriem Canyon
Day 6
Sossusvlei Dunes – Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia
We begin our day climbing Dune 45 enjoying the magnificent views of the sun rising on the dunes before making our way back down for a delicious breakfast. We hop onto a 4×4 and are transferred to Sossusvlei where we embark on a walk through the Salt Pans. Tonight is spent under the picturesque stars of the Namib desert. In the afternoon we enjoy an educational desert excursion with our local guide.
Accommodation: Camp: Boesman’s Camp or similar (no website)
Facilities: Shared ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Namib-Naukluft National Park – Naukluft Area
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Sunrise hike up Dune 45, 4×4 shuttle to Sossusvlei / Deadvlei, Guided desert walk with local expert
Day 7
Swakopmund, Namibia
Leaving behind the Namib today, we cross the Tropic of Capricorn on the way from the Atlantic Coast. We travel west on our way to the coastal town of Swakopmund. On our way 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.
Accommodation: Camp: Two Per Room: Amanpuri Travellers Lodge or Strauss Holiday Accommodation
Route: Naukluft Area to Swakopmund
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Activity: Tropic of Capricorn, Walvis Bay Lagoon
Day 8
Swakopmund, Namibia
Today 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. Explore the famed coffee shops and bakeries offering a wide range of German inspired treats.
Accommodation: Camp: Two Per Room: Amanpuri Travellers Lodge or Strauss Holiday Accommodation
Facilities: En-suite bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Activity: Dolphin cruise, Skydiving, Sandboarding, Quad biking, Dinner
Day 9
Spitzkoppe – Brandberg, Namibia
We start the day early and travel to the vast granite formations, viewing the beautiful rock art of the San people who lived here over a thousand years ago. We take a walk with our local guide with the opportunity of viewing this magnificent rock art before making our way to camp for the night.
Accommodation: Camp: Brandberg White Lady
Facilities: Shared Ablutions 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
Regarded as the highest mountain in Namibia, 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. We travel to the area of Kamanjab after our exploration.
Accommodation: Camp: Toko Lodge
Facilities: Share Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Uis to Kamanjab
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Brandberg White Lady hike
Day 11
Etosha National Park, Namibia
The next day 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.
Accommodation: Camp: NWR: Okaukuejo or similar
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Kamanjab to Etosha National Park
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Afternoon game drive in truck
Day 12
Etosha National Park, Namibia
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: Camps: Okaukuejo or similar
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Etosha National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Full Day Game drive in 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 or similar
Facilities: En-suites Bathroom 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 our next destination which neighbours Botswana and the Kalahari Desert. Enjoy a guided walk with the San community in the afternoon, providing us with insight into the harsh climate and San people. In the evening we experience some traditional dance, songs and story-telling.
It’s also important that you find some time this evening to prepare and pack your smaller bag/ backpack for the next 2 days, as tomorrow you will not have a lot of time to repack your bags before disembarking off your overland truck and into smaller vehicles for your stay in Moremi National Park.
Accommodation: Camp: Ghanzi Trail Blazers
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Windhoek to Ghanzi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: San Tribal dance in evening / San Guided Walk (this activity 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: 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 Game Reserve, Botswana
Today we spend most of our day traversing through Savuti Game Reserve, which is renowned as one of the best big-game areas, which host huge concentrations of wildlife in Southern Africa.
The day will be spent driving through very different habitats such as waterways, marshlands, forests, open savanna grasslands and mountainous outcrop regions, therefore offering you variety all in one day, before ending your day on the Chobe River, where you are reunited with your overland truck.
Accommodation: Camp: Thebe River Safaris http://www.theberiversafaris.com
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Moremi South Gate – via Savuti Game Reserve – Kasane
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Activity: Full Day Game Drive through Savuti Game Reserve in 4×4 safari vehicles
Day 18
Chobe National Park, Botswana
Rising early we make our way to o Kasane to our camp situated on the banks of the Chobe River. Our 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: Camp: Thebe River Safaris
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Nata to Kasane ±435 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
Rising early we cross the border into Zimbabwe and make our way to the Victoria Falls town, here we have some time to prepare our activities for the following day, before visiting the incredible Victoria Falls and experiencing the thunderous and powerful Zambezi. There are craft markets and coffee shops for the more relaxed traveller. 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 through 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: Victoria Falls Rainbow Hotel (01 Jan – 31 March 2020), Shearwater Explorers Village (From 01 April 2020)
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Kasane to Victoria Falls ±100 km
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2
Optional Activity: Victoria Falls National Park entry, Zambezi Sunset Cruise, Bungee Jump, Helicopter Flights, White Water Rafting
Border Post Botswana: Botswana: Kazangula Road, Tel: +267 62 50320 / Open: 06h00-20h00, Zimbabwe: Kzangula Road, Open: 06h00-20h00
Day 21
Victoria Falls to Francistown, Botswana
An early departure from Victoria Falls, we drive south through Botswana to Francistown. Our overnight this evening is located just outside of the town.
Accommodation Campsite : Woodlands Lodge
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offe
Route: Victoria Falls to Francistown ±560 km
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Border Post: Zimbabwe: Kazangula Road, Open: 06h00-18h00 Botswana: Kazangula Road, +267 625-0320/1303, Open: 06h00-20h00
Day 22
Francistown to Johannesburg, South Africa
Another early departure, we enter into South Africa by crossing the border and enjoy a picturesque drive to Johannesburg, Belvedere Estate. Travellers have the chance to enjoy a delicious cultural braai served by the estate – This is optional and would have to be booked through your guide.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Belvedere Estate
Facilities: Campsite with Shared ablutions. Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Francistown to Johannesburg ±560 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Border Post: Botswana: Martinsdrift, Tel: +267 4940 254, Open: 08h00-18h00. South Africa: Groblersbrug, Tel: +27 (0) 14 767 1019, Open: 08h00-18h00.
Day 23
Greater Kruger National Park, South Africa
We depart from Johannesburg today, journeying through the coalfields of Mpumalanga province on the way to the Lowveld and the world renowned Kruger National Park where we seek out Africa’s Big 5 (lion, elephant, rhino, leopard and buffalo). In the afternoon you have the opportunity to partake in an optional sunset drive in the park, booking is essential. In the evening you will be briefed on what lies ahead on your journey.
Accommodation: Camp Nkambeni Reserve
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Johannesburg to Kruger National Park ±480 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Activity: Sundowner game drive (Subject to Availability)
Day 24
Kruger National Park, South Africa
We wake up early this morning and prepare for a full day of game-viewing in the park. The Kruger National Park is the most well-known nature conservation region in the world.We embark on a game drive searching for wildlife where you will also have the opportunity to experience Kruger in an open 4×4 safari vehicle.
Formed in 1898 to guard the wildlife of the South African Lowveld, this National Park of almost two million hectares is unmatched in the variety of wildlife it boasts. The Kruger Park is also a world leader in advanced environmental management techniques and policies. About 145 mammal species, including the big Five, more than 500 bird species, some of which cannot be located anywhere else in South Africa, and 336 tree species can be found in the Kruger National Park. When the very first tourist vehicles drove through the Park in 1927, they created their own camps in thorn-bush enclosures and were required to be armed with weapons in order to guard themselves from predators. During WWII, the Park was closed to the public and was then opened again in 1946, but under new management. Currently the Park is one of the most renowned safari destinations in the world with all the facilities you could expect from a top-notch holiday destination. However, it has thankfully maintained it’s wild, untouched environment that allows you to experience true Africa.
Accommodation: Camp: Nkambeni Reserve
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Kruger Park Full-Day Game Drive in 4×4 Vehicles
Day 25
Panorama Route, South Africa
Today our day begins a little later before we journey for a short distance to the Panorama Route, stopping at the incredible Bourke’s Luck Potholes, God’s Window and the Three Rondavels before making our way back to camp later in the day. An opportunity to join an optional sundowner drive is available this evening.
Accommodation: Camp: Nkambeni Reserve
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Panorama Route – Bourke’s Luck Potholes, Three Rondavels, God’s Window
Optional Activities: Sundowner Drive (Subject to Availability)
Day 26
Maputo, Mozambique
Today we make our way to Maputo, Mozambique’s capital and biggest city. Once settled, we enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and set out to explore the sights of the city on a guided walking tour. A hub to the Indian Ocean, it’s economy is focused around the harbour. There is much to do and see here. The city is surrounded by the province of Maputo, but is administrated as it’s own province. The city is located on the west side of the Maputo Bay, at the Thembe River mouth. The evening is spent enjoying a lovely dinner out and we have the opportunity to experience the night life of this fascinating city.
There are two beautiful islands, Inhaca and Portuguese Island, that are situated just off Maputo’s coast. Under the influence of the Portuguese, Maputo transformed into one of the most gorgeous and trendy cities with a remarkable skyline of high buildings and a multicultural Portuguese/African atmosphere. Areas such as the Polana Hotel bustled with the chatting of socialites and nightclubs pumping music until the early hours of the morning. However, the Civil War during the 1970s and 1980s changed all of this. When peace eventually arrived, the once proud city was in ruins. Countless immigrants filled the buildings, litter was strewn all over the streets and primary services such as electricity, water and garbage collection were out of commission. Presently, the city is slowly being restored to it’s previous state. The elite can once more be found in the five-star Polana Hotel with it’s fantastic view overlooking the harbour, tea gardens and antique Victorian elevator.
There are various historical sites and buildings to visit here. Maputo’s most significant landmark is the Fort of Nossa Senhora da Conceiao (Our Lady of Conception) which was the centre of the original settlement. Another magnificent structure is the Central Railway Station, a massive building that appears as more of a palace for kings and queens rather than a transport hub for commuters. There are also some fantastic restaurants where you can indulge in tasty local beers and sumptuous fresh prawns.
Accommodation: Camp: Two Per Room:Southern Sun Maputo
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Kruger National Park to Maputo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch. Dinner
Included Highlight: Maputo Walking Tour
Border Post: Mozambique: Lebombo, Tel: +258 2155 0010, Open: 06h00-18h00, South Africa: Komatipoort, Tel: +27 (013) 793-7201, Open: 06h00-18h00
Day 27
Inhambane – Barra Beach, Mozambique
Today we journey through the dense coconut plantations to Inhambane, an old, Portuguese settlement. This coastal area is very refreshing and contains amazing beaches. There are various Optional Activities in which to partake in, including fishing to horse riding. The following two nights are spent at the beach.
Accommodation: Camp: Two Per Room: Bay View Lodge
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Maputo to Inhambane ±469 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 28 – 29
Inhambane, Mozambique
The following two days can be spent unwinding on the pristine beaches or visiting some of Africa’s most incredible diving and snorkelling areas. The following day your guide will take you on a drive to Tofo where you are free to enjoy the local market and seaside villages. In your free time make sure you join in on the optional activities available.
Accommodation: Camp: Two Per Room: Bay View Lodge
Facilities: En-suites, Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2
Included Highlight: Visit to Tofo
Optional Activity: Ocean Safaris, Quad Biking, Scuba Diving, Snorkelling and more
Day 30 – 31
Vilanculos, Mozambique
En route to Vilanculos we will make a stop at a local craft market to shop for souvenirs and curios. Upon arrival you will be briefed on the following days excursion. The Bazaruto Archipelago is Mozambique’s leading tourist destination. It is a guarded area containing spectacular sea life, with snorkelling in the reefs being one of the finest ways to enjoy it.
Vilanculos is a coastal town located in Mozambique, situated in the Vilanculos District in the province of Inambane. Vilanculos was named after Gamala Vilankulo Mukoke, a local tribal chief, and some of the suburbs (bairros) are named after his sons. The town has developed rapidly over the past decade and has received large amounts of investment into it’s tourism infrastructure. It is the gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago and dhows (local boats) often journey between the town and the Archipelago. The town itself is only 5 kilometres in length and contains various market, shops and other conveniences.
Accommodation: Camp: Golden Sands
Facilities: Shared Ablutions (Group House) Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Inhambane to Vilanculos ±300 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Explore Inhambane on foot (self-guided walk)
Day 32
Xai Xai District, Mozambique
We make our way into Mozambique today and journey through the picturesque coastal views before reaching the busy town of Xai Xai. Upon arrival in the late afternoon we enjoy a walk on the beach or sip on a sundowner before bidding farewell to the Indian Ocean and the immaculate beaches of Mozambique. Our accommodation this evening will be at a truly unique Mozambique lodge.
Accommodation: Camp: Two Per Room:
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Bazaruto to Xai Xai District
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 33 – 35
Hlane Game Reserve – Eswatini
We start the day early and travel via Maputo to our destination for the next three nights. The following morning can be spent on a game drive in the Hlane Game Reserve. There are a variety of activities on offer here. After our game drive, we leave the Hlane Game Reserve and make our way to the next magnificent reserve in Swaziland, Mlilwane. On our last day in Eswatini (formerly known as Swaziland), we explore the variety of trails in Mlilwane with our guide in the morning. We enjoy lunch back at camp and spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure.
Accommodation: Camp: Hlane Game Reserve (First Night), Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary (Second and Third Night)
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Xai Xai to Eswatini(Day 1), Hlane Game Reserve to Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary (Day 2&3)
Included Highlight: Rhino Game Drive in Hlane Game Reserve, Morning walk with your guide
Meals: Breakfast x3, Lunch x3, Dinner x3
Border Post Mozambique: Namaacha, Tel: not available, Open: 07h00-20h00. Eswatini: Lomahasha, Tel: +268 323 6026, Open: 07h00-20h00
Day 36
Johannesburg, South Africa
Today we head back to Johannesburg where our tour will come to an end. Johannesburg has a great nightlife and many excellent restaurants and the group often spends the evening together.
Accommodation: Own Arrangements / Post tour accommodation can be booked through us.
Route: Mlilwane to Johannesburg
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Optional Activities: 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.
Packing for your tour:
Packing sensibly is essential for your Africa Overland trip. One backpack and one daypack are needed and these can weigh no more than 25kg. A duffel bag is preferable as it will fit into the lockers on the truck, but you can also take a backpack with a compact, flexible, soft shell (without a hard frame). Please do not take suitcases. The airlines implement a 20kg per person limit on international flights for your luggage (your main bag) and a further 5 kg for carry-on luggage (your day bag). A good idea is to include a spare bag for curios that you may purchase, but don’t forget to include this in your weight for your trip home. A moneybelt is a useful item for keeping your money safe and hidden.
Take along comfortable, casual and semi-casual “wash & wear” clothes. Cotton is a good material for when it is hot, and fleece for when it gets cold. Pack clothes that don’t crease easily as the laundry facilities are limited. Find clothes that can be mixed and matched easily and are colour co-ordinated. A great item of clothing is zip-off pants. These double-up as shorts or trousers and are useful for when the weather changes. Reversible clothes are also very convenient and will help to reduce space in your bag.
Locker Sizes:
Clothes:
- 3-4 short sleeved shirts or T-shirts
- 2 pairs of trousers or 1 pair and 1 skirt – try not to pack jeans as they take a long time to dry
- ¾ pants
- Warm sweater or fleece top
- 1-2 pairs of shorts
- Tracksuit pants
- Light sweater or sweatshirt (can also be used as an additional pillow)
- Warm fleece top
- Underwear and socks
- Hat/peak cap/bandana
- Gloves
- Scarves
- Water/wind-proof jacket
- Boots or sturdy trainers
Beachwear:
- Swimsuit
- Sunglasses
- Beach towel and/or sarong
- Sandals or thongs (need to be waterproof if you want to go white-water rafting)
Toiletries:
- Personal toiletries
- No electric shavers
- Hand sanitiser/wipes (waterless sanitisers are convenient)
- Baby wipes/wet wipes
- Tissues
- Moisturiser
- Face wash
- Facecloth
Sleepwear:
- Pyjamas
- Travel pillow
- Spare pillowcase
- Sleeping Bag
- Fleece blanket
Medication/first aid kit:
- Prescription medication
- Anti-histamine cream or tablets
- Antiseptic cream
- Sunscreen (high factor) and lip balm
- Water purifying tablets
- Pain killers
- Eye drops
- Diarrhoea medication
- Moisturiser
- Dehydration salts
- Elastoplasts/band aids
- Insect repellent (Malaria is a big problem in Africa, so the more protection the better)
- Sterile dressings
Extras:
- Water bottle
- Book (you can swap with the rest of the group)
- Extra memory/film for your camera (remember to set at the highest resolution as you might want to enlarge the pictures)
- Head torch
- Pens
- Zip-lock bags (medium sized for cameras, snacks, trash etc.)
- Extra batteries
- Travel power strip ( a compact three-plug unit that includes two USB connections. With just one wall plug you can charge five gadgets) Buy on Amazon and will help to reduce space in your bag.
- Penknife
- Watch
- Biodegradable laundry detergent
- Vaccination certificates for some areas
- Cash
- Small scrubbing brush
- A padlock for your luggage locker in the truck
- The power plugs in SA have 3 round pins. East Africa has British power plugs.
Laundry:
- There will be washing facilities at most campsites which you can make use of.
- Please remember to bring some environmentally friendly washing
- We suggest you take along crease-free clothing as the facilities available for ironing are limited
Safety on Game Drives:
- When on safari be as quiet as possible at all times and don’t make any sudden movements, this will ensure you don’t disturb the animals and get the most out of your game drive.
- Do not jump off the truck at any time.
Accommodation (Pre Tour):
- It is highly recommended to arrive a day before your tour starts so that you do not miss out on the pre departure meetings as it covers important information you need to know for your trip.
- It is strongly advised that you arrive a day before the tour starts.
- We do advise letting us know as soon as possible in order for us to make the best hotel reservation for you.
- Post accommodation can be very easily arranged.
Personal Health:
- Ensure that the guides know of your medical conditions!!!
- Let them know how you are feeling.
- AIDS is an enormous problem in Africa so please be careful and practical, condoms are cheap and freely available.
- A First Aid Kit is available on the truck for any emergencies.
Vaccinations:
- Please ensure you seek medical advice from your travel doctor before visiting Africa.
- You should consult your travel doctor or travel clinic for the latest requirements for Hepatitis A (Havrax), Yellow Fever, Tetanus Booster Shot, Rabies
- If you are entering a Yellow Fever infected area, you will be required to have a vaccination which can be done at Travel Clinics.
- Obtain an international Certificate of Vaccination with a valid stamp.
- Yellow Fever – Valid for 10 years and mandatory for most African countries. It is compulsory to produce a yellow fever certificate when entering Kenya, Zanzibar and Malawi and for taking part in the Gorilla Trek. Failure to present this may result in entry being refused.
- We also recommend that you ask your doctor about: Typhoid, Tetanus, Hepatitis, Meningitis, Polio, Hepatitis A&B, Cholera
- Tents have mosquito nets in the vents and it is not generally necessary to bring a separate mosquito net unless you plan to sleep outside, under the stars(in which case you are recommended to bring one)
Malaria:
- Malaria is transmitted by mosquitoes and is more prevalent in areas where there are high concentrations.
- Malaria is a serious problem in Africa, but if you are cautious and use mosquito repellent and take your malaria tablets you will be safe.
Main points to keep in mind about malaria:
o Cover your skin with long shirts, pants and socks as most mosquito bites occur below the knee.
o Make sure your mosquito net is tightly closed and doesn’t have any holes in it.
o Use an effective prophylactic and speak to your doctor about options for anti-malarial tablets
o Always cover yourself with mosquito repellent, especially at sunset.
o Please know that malaria cannot be cured!
Water:
- Dehydration is a common ailment on tour.
- You should be drinking a minimum of 2 litres of water per day
- It is preferable to drinking bottled water to avoid diarrhoea, but your guide will advise you as to whether you can drink the water or not.
How others can reach you:
- The easiest option to keep in touch with your loved ones at home is to buy a SIM card of the respective country you are travelling in.
Photography:
- You are not permitted to take photographs at the border crossing, government buildings and military institutions.
- No photographs of the army, police are allowed.
- Some tribes do not allow their pictures to be taken so please ask your guides before photographing whether it is permissible or not.
- A fee may have to be paid for photographing the local people.
Crew and Guides
Tour Crew:
Your tour crew are people with a heart of gold and love living in Africa! With an in-depth knowledge of the local culture, history and wildlife, your crew are committed to ensuring a memorable African overland tour, 24/7.
- Most overland tours include two crew members (Driver and Tour Leader) working as a team managing tour finances, planning activities, preparing meals and ensure you safely experience Africa.
- Our larger group overland tours (maximum 26 to 30) include a third crew member (Camp Assistant or Cook or Translator – tour depending).
- A pre-departure meeting is held the day before your tour, where tour crew will brief you on the nature of your tour and what to expect. At this point they would also collect any local payments needed for your tour.
- We have select shorter small group tours including one crew member, responsible for driving and tour management. It is perfect for an exclusive, personalised African experience.
The Guides:
- All overland guides and crew undergo extensive training courses, lectures and field instruction on an on-going basis. Specialised guides are contracted for special interest tours (including school and University group tours) or language tours (Spanish and German) or private overland tours (on request).
- Although overland guides are trained and qualified, remember they are still human. The nature of their work and duration of overland tours, places an enormous demand on them and can be taxing at times. Please treat them with respect and enjoy getting to know them. They are great people!
Climate and Weather Conditions:
- The weather in Africa can be unpredictable and extreme so be prepared for this.
- You can find out the type of weather to expect on your tour from your consultant.
- Always wear sunscreen from October to April.
- Temperatures can drop to below zero from June to September.
- It does rain in Africa!
Street Vendors:
- Like with any 3rd world country you will encounter informal vendors offering you better rates than the banks. We suggest you don’t work with them for security reasons.
- Please do not display your foreign currency in public.
Passport:
- A valid passport is required for all international travel.
- Having all the necessary documentation for your trip is your own responsibility therefore you need to find out by your travel agent what the essential documents for the trip are in order to avoid any complications on tour.
- Passports must be valid for at least 6 months after returning from your trip.
- In certain cases foreign passport holders require entry, re-entry or departure permits and/or visas to enter a country.