Nairobi to Cape Town Overland Tour

• This tour is offered in two travel styles:

• The basics:

Included: Accommodation and meals as indicated in the itinerary, transport, registered guides and selected activities as per itinerary.
Excluded: flights, all items of a personal nature, alcohol, snacks, souvenirs, tips and optional activities etc.

• Day to day description l Nairobi to Cape Town Overland Tour

Day 1. From Nairobi in Kenya to Arusha in Tanzania
Leaving behind the bustle of Nairobi we travel south to the Tanzanian border to begin our epic adventure over 40 days to Cape Town in South Africa. After completing border formalities we continue to the busy town of Arusha, our base for the night. Northern Tanzania is home to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Kilimanjaro. Those who have purchased the optional Serengeti Excursion upgrade package will be briefed this evening by our local guide on what to prepare for the coming days.

Day 2. Arusha to Karatu
Although it is a short distance to Karatu, we will spend most of the day commuting closer to the Ngorongoro Crater. Upon arrival in Karatu, our guide will brief us on the full day excursion into the crater. Karatu is conveniently situated to allow you the opportunity to participate in various optional activities in the coming days.

Please note: This morning, those guests who pre-purchased the Serengeti excursion upgrade will be collected and will be separated from the group for the next 4 days). See all the details in the Tour dossier, or click here.

Day 3. Ngorongoro Crater Excursion
We rise early and will be collected from our camp and transferred to the Ngorongoro Crater in 4×4 safari type vehicles. We will spend the bulk of our day exploring the crater floor in search of the animals which roam the plains. We will arrive back in Karatu in the afternoon.

Day 4. Karatu
This morning we rise early for a hike to the Elephant Caves, taking you through untouched forests with amazing wildlife.  The rest of the day is open for you to relax at camp or participate in a number of optional activities available from the accommodation establishment. Some of the optional activities include village walking visits or a visit to Lake Manyara National Park. These activities need to be booked directly with the accommodation provide upon arrival in Karatu.

Day 5. Arusha
Wrapping up our time in Karatu and the Ngorongoro Crater, we board our overland truck and return to Arusha.

Day 6. Bagamoyo
We head out early this morning as we journey south to our overnight stop in the coastal town of Bagamoyo. Formerly a centre point of the East African slave trade, Bagamoyo lies just north of the port of Dar es Salaam and is a perfect launching point for our upcoming Zanzibar Excursion. While today is primarily a travel day, we experience the hustle and bustle of one of Africa’s major travel routes. Road travel in Africa is an experience in itself and the bustling markets, villages and scenic backdrops that line the routes give a window into the lifestyle of rural Africa. This evening we will prepare for our Zanzibar Excursion that begins tomorrow morning.

Day 7. Zanzibar Island (Stone Town)
We head out early this morning as we journey south to our departure point for our ferry to Zanzibar Island from Dar es Salaam. After arriving at the ferry port we make our way to our hotel located in the heart of Stone Town. Zanzibar is renowned for its spices and fragrances and we have the chance to experience this first-hand today. There are a number of excursions that can be arranged for the coming days in Stone Town and your guide will be on hand to assist.

Day 8. Stone Town, Zanzibar
This morning we enjoy the local scenery by embarking on a spice tour with a local guide. The afternoon is free to enjoy some of the many attractions and activities on offer. Water sports are the order of the day and Nungwi offers fishing, snorkelling, scuba diving and a variety of ocean safari options. Whatever it is you chose to do today, you will have ample opportunity to create some island memories. Rent a scooter and explore the many attractions on offer or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.

Day 9. Stone Town, Zanzibar
Today we explore the beautiful Jozani Forest. For those wanting to do their last bit of sightseeing, the afternoon is free for optional activities. Boasting a rich history this bustling port was once a landmark on both the Slave and Spice trade routes. We overnight here before returning to Dar Es Salaam in the morning.

Day 10. Mikumi National Park - Safari
Leaving the coast behind us we travel inland and make our way to Mikumi where we stop for the night. Mikumi National Park ranks as the fourth largest park in Tanzania and forms part of a 75 000 square kilometre wilderness that centres on Selous, Africa’s largest game reserve (wildlife reserve).

Day 11. Iringa
The town of Iringa sits on a cliff overlooking the Ruaha River Valley. The town centre offers the visitor a view into the past with its German colonial buildings and a popular market. The Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery memorialises soldiers who died in local battles during WWI and WWII.

Day 12. Northern Lake Malawi
Leaving Tanzania behind, we descend the Great Rift Valley and cross the border into Malawi. Known as the “Warm Heart of Africa” the lakeside country is blessed with natural beauty and our destination tonight is the shores of Lake Malawi where we look forward to spending the next two days enjoying the attractions of the northern regions of the lake.

Day 13. Lake Malawi
Snorkelling in the crystal waters offers the chance to see first-hand the brilliantly coloured tropical cichlids, tiny fish often found in colourful aquariums around the world. Your afternoon will be spent walking through the small village of Ngala.

Day 14. Southern Lake Malawi
This morning we board our truck and head further South of Lake Malawi. Our destination tonight is the shores of Lake Malawi. Stretching over 500km along the western boundary of Malawi, the lake is home to more species of fish than any other lake. We spend the night on the shores of this natural wonder.

Day 15. Lake Malawi
Today is another day of leisure, relaxing at the lake. Use the time to read a book, soak up the sun or indulge in the many attractions that are on offer.

Day 16. South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
This morning we enjoy a final sunrise on the shores of Lake Malawi before setting off for Zambia and the South Luangwa National Park. After crossing the border into Zambia we make a short stop in Chipata before continuing to our camp on the banks of the Luangwa River. Having watched the sun rise over Lake Malawi in the morning we enjoy an equally spectacular sunset over the Luangwa River this evening.

Day 17. South Luangwa National Park
South Luangwa National Park is a world-class safari destination and we have a full day to explore the park in search of the variety of wildlife found in the park. This morning you can partake in an optional morning safari or during the dry season (April to December) you can join one of the iconic walking safaris on offer in the park. This afternoon we will enjoy a Sunset Drive in the park, enjoying a sundowner on the way. The unique opportunity to explore the park at night gives us a chance to spot the elusive nocturnal species that are rarely seen in the day.

Day 18. Petauke
Leaving the Luangwa Valley this morning we make a stop at Tribal Textiles. The Chipata area is a major producer of Cotton and this morning we get a taste of the creativity of the African culture. Those interested can enjoy a tour of their workshops (March to December) to see how these colourful fabrics are crafted. Our destination tonight is the small town of Petauke.

Day 19. Lusaka
As an important link between Lusaka and neighbouring Malawi, the Great East Road winds through rural Zambia and we will cross the Luangwa River on our way to Lusaka. The route today is dotted with villages and subsistence farms and the landscapes serve as a stark contrast to the developed countries, so many of us call home.

Day 20. Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe - Adventure capital of Zimbabwe
Crossing the Southern reaches of Zambia we make our way to the adventure town of Victoria Falls. This afternoon we get our first look at the mighty Victoria Falls. Crossing the bridge between Zambia and Zimbabwe we get a view of “Musi oa Tunya”, the Smoke that Thunders as the falls are known in the local language. Victoria Falls offers a host of optional activities and these can be booked on arrival in Victoria Falls. 

Day 21. Zimbabwe - Victoria Falls
There are lots of optional activities to do in Vic Falls and your guides will help you make most of your time here. For the more relaxed traveler there are craft markets and coffee shops on offer as well. Tonight we enjoy an optional dinner out, your guide will assist you to decide on the many options available.

Day 22. Victoria Falls - Kasane - Chobe National Park
After breakfast we travel the short distance to the Botswana border, crossing into Botswana to set up camp on the banks of the Chobe River. For those who have purchased the activity package we begin our exploration in 4x4 vehicles and enjoy an afternoon game drive through the Chobe National Park followed by a boat cruise in the afternoon, which allows us an up close and personal experience with the many elephants that frequent the Chobe riverfront in the afternoon.

Day 23. Nata
Leaving Kasane early, we set off for Nata where we will overnight. Our activity package will afford us the opportunity to enjoy an afternoon guided excursion to the Pans and Nata Sanctuary to appreciate the spectacular view and a sundowner.

Day 24. Maun - Gateway to the Okavango Delta
Our journey today takes us across the northern reaches of the Makgadikgadi Pans and the road to Maun is lined with majestic views of the iconic Baobab tree. Upon arrival in Maun, you will have the opportunity to enjoy an optional scenic flight over the Okavango Delta (time and weather permitting). 

* Note: Those guests who have pre-purchased the Okavango upgrade package – will be transferred into the Delta today and will re-join the group after the Delta excursion. View all the details here. 

Day 25. Okavango Delta
The most rewarding and enjoyable way to explore and experience the beauty and serenity of this intricate system of lily covered channels and lagoons is by mokoro. Heading out early, we will be transferred by safari vehicle to the poling station (approximately 1 hour transfer) where we will meet the polers who will be escorting us into the Delta. The polers will steer us through the serene area of narrow, reed lined channels which open out onto beautiful lagoons. Reaching one of the many islands, a nature walk may be taken with your poler. After the walk, we return by mokoro through the channels back to the poling station. While the mokoro trail is not primarily a game viewing activity, a variety of game may be encountered in this pristine wilderness area, including elephant, giraffe, kudu, impala and zebra.

Day 26. Maun to Central Kalahari District
We travel to the Ghanzi district in the central Kalahari and this afternoon we enjoy a guided walk with our San hosts. This is an opportunity to learn more about the San culture and interaction with their Desert environment. Tonight we get a first-hand experience of the San culture, well known for its rich traditions of song, dance and story-telling. The nomadic San are hunter-gatherers that have passed down a rich knowledge of the plants and animals that play such an important part in their lifestyle.

Day 27. Ghanzi - Windhoek (Namibia)
We start early this morning as we continue west and cross the border into Namibia, travelling onwards to the capital city of Windhoek. Upon arrival in Windhoek, we will take a short walk through the city centre and have the opportunity to view some its better known landmarks. (Our accommodation for the night is situated halfway between the city and the airport).

Day 28. Windhoek - Etosha National Park - Safari Safari Safari
We leave Windhoek early in the morning since we have a full day of driving ahead of us and will reach the gates of Etosha National Park in the late afternoon. We begin with our first safari (game drive) as we enter the park and travel the short distance to our overnight rest camp for the night.

Day 29. Etosha National Park
Etosha is the venue for some of the most unique wildlife viewing experiences in Africa. Today we have a full-day to explore the edges of the Etosha Pan in search of the abundant wildlife that occurs in the park. Our truck offers us an elevated platform and we will spend some time at the many waterholes dotted throughout the park.

Day 30. Etosha to Kamanjab
We will rise early and enjoy our last game drive (safari) through Etosha as we make our way to the gates and exit the park. Sit back and enjoy the scenery of rugged mountains and dry river beds.

Day 31. The White Lady and Brandberg
The Brandberg (Burning Mountains) are regarded as the highest in Namibia and home to the famous White Lady, one of more than 45,000 rock paintings in the area. After reaching our destination for the day, this afternoon we will make the 1-hour hike to visit the painting that is said to be around 2,000 years old. (Please be advised that the hike does traverse rough terrain along the gorge of the normally dry Tsisab River). 

Day 32.  Sptizkoppe and Swakopmund 
The massive granite formations of Spitzkoppe tower 700 metres above the desert plains below and the presence of rock art indicates their significance to the San people who lived here many years ago. We will enjoy a walk with a local guide and have the opportunity to view some examples of the San’s rock art before setting off for the seaside town of Swakopmund. Swakopmund is well known for its many adventure activities, coffee shops and rich German influence. This evening you will have the opportunity to book some of the many exciting activities on offer and we end the day with dinner out at a local restaurant.

Day 33. Swakopmund - Adventure capital of Namibia
Today is an open day to enjoy adventure, explore Swakopmund or simply enjoy a great bake at a local coffee shop. Swakopmund offers all the conveniences of a little city and there is something to keep everyone busy. This welcome brush with civilization is the perfect launching pad as we venture to the Namib Desert tomorrow morning.

Day 34. Swakopmund - Namib Naukluft
Leaving behind the charms of Swakopmund we continue our journey to Southern Namibia and the Namib Desert. We make a short stop in Walvis Bay this morning before turning east towards the heart of the desert. Our afternoon will be spent with a local guide who will introduce us to the wonders of the desert environment. An early night is advisable as tomorrow will see us up as the dawn breaks.

Day 35. The highest sand dunes in the world around Sesriem and Sossusvlei
Rising at first light we travel to Sesriem, the gateway to the Sossusvlei dune fields. We enter the park early and make a stop to climb the famous Dune 45. Having stretched our legs we continue deeper into the Dune fields and take a 4x4 transfer to the marvels of Sossusvlei. We take time to visit both Sossusvlei and Deadvlei, before bidding the dune field farewell. Our final stop before continuing to our camp is the interesting Sesriem Canyon, a remnant of much wetter times in this dry region.

Day 36: Quiver Tree Forest
We turn east and head for Keetmanshoop, where we will spend our afternoon meandering through the quiver tree forest. Contrary to belief, the quiver tree is not really a tree, but a plant that can grow to between 200 – 300 years old. 

Day 37. Giants Playground and Fish River Canyon - second biggest canyon in the world
Our safari continues with a visit to the Giants Playgrounds, named for the way in which the massive dolerite boulders have been placed on each other- creating rock formations and a series of mazes. We board the truck and travel south on the gravel byways of Southern Namibia on route to Ais-Ais. Famed for its hot springs the resort and its hot pools are the perfect tonic to ease away the dust of the Namib. The Fish River Canyon is one of the largest in the world and this afternoon we take a walk along the rim of the canyon and end our day with a memorable sunset on the canyon edge.

Day 38. Orange River
As dawn breaks we head out making our way to the Orange River and our final stop in Namibia. Our last night in Namibia is spent on the banks of the Orange River and the best way to experience the Orange River is by canoe. This afternoon you will have the opportunity to partake in an optional canoe trip on the river.

Day 39. Orange River - Cederberg - South Africa
A final border crossing sees us enter South Africa this morning as we travel through the desert landscapes of Namaqualand on our way to the Cederberg region. If you are fortunate enough to be travelling in the spring months (July to September) you may encounter the wild flowers that have made this region famous. No matter the time of year though, the strange desert vistas offer a unique backdrop to this day’s travel. Tonight we enjoy a traditional meal and celebrate the many memories we have made.

Day 40. Cederberg - Cape Town - the most beautiful city in the world!
The Cederberg region not only boasts spectacular mountains and orange farms, but it is also the home of the Rooibos bush and this morning we will visit a working Rooibos tea farm and see the plants of Rooibos and Buchu that occur naturally in the wild. Indigenous to the mountain slopes of the Cederberg, this herbal beverage has earned an international reputation as a healthy and refreshing alternative to regular tea. Nearing Cape Town, you will notice Table Mountain appear in the distance and we will stop to look at Table Mountain from across Table Bay. Your tour ends upon arrival in Cape Town city centre.

Before and after the tour services
To help with the planning of your trip, you are more than welcome to book these hotels before and/ or after your tour through us. These hotels are either the starting or end point of your tour, or it will be conveniently close to it. These hotels also offer airport transfers. For information on prices, just click "Hotels and Transfers" at the bottom of this page.