Best of Africa South

Overview

Best of Africa South

With the Best of Africa South Adventure Accommodated Tour you’ll travel through the untouched beauty of Namibia’s desert landscapes. We also explore one of the largest canyons in the world: Fish River Canyon. As we venture deeper into the Namib Desert you’ll see the slowly changing landscapes which represents the many faces of this desert country. From the grasslands in the east to the red dunes in the west. In Swakopmund some epic adventures are waiting for us such as sand boarding and skydiving.

Before we start with an unforgettable excursion in the Okavango Delta, we will explore Etosha National Park. Etosha is the venue for some of the most unique game viewing experiences in Africa. Then we drive further to the magnificent Victoria Falls. Victoria Falls is undoubtedly one of Africa’s most beautiful treasures. Venturing onwards into East Africa, discover the white sand beaches and crystal clear waters of Zanzibar which are perfect for rest and relaxation before we make our way to Arusha and the Serengeti National Park where you are sure to see incredible wildlife. Embark on the final leg of adventure through Kenya and Uganda where you will meet the Masai Mara tribes and go on a trek in search of the endangered mountain gorillas.

2020 Early Bird Special –  For July 2020 we are offering you the opportunity to book this tour for travel in 2021  at our current 2020 rate. Applies for departures between 01 January 2021 until 31 July 2021!

Email us for more information

This tour has a Comfort Option available.

ONE NIGHT PRE-ACCOMMODATION INCLUDED in the Best of Africa South

Included

1. All meals which are prepared and served at the Overland truck
2. Accommodation
3. Qualified crew
4. Filtered water
5. Transport in the Overland truck
6. Included highlights as per the itinerary
7. Entrance fees to National Parks.
8. A full day excursion into the Okavango Delta

Excluded

1. Items of a personal nature (snacks, alcohol, bottled water, soft drinks, tips)
2. Entrance fees (associated with optional activities
3. Souvenirs and optional activities.
4. Gorilla Permit – USD630 – USD730

*2020 Tour price includes the activity package; but excludes single supplement. R143 750.00 per perosn sharing

Prices are subject to change

**Price is per person sharing, excludes single supplement and any additional meals or activities not set out in the itinerary.

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Route: Nairobi to Masai Mara

We leave the capital of Nairobi and travel to the Masai Mara, world renowned for its endless plains of wild animals and spectacular beauty. The visit to the Masai Mara is operated in safari type vehicles and not the Nomad truck. For this reason, you are asked to pack a small overnight bag to travel with. You will need your towel, clothes, toiletries and camping essentials.

The rolling grasslands of the Masai Mara offer ideal game viewing and photographic opportunities. Some of the other animals that could be found here include elephant, black rhino, buffalo, leopard, cheetah, wildebeest, zebra and gazelle. Hippo and crocodile abound in the muddy brown waters of the rivers, which traverse this reserve. Today we will spend the entire day game driving through the Mara in search of all the animals.

Route: Masai Mara Reserve to Lake Nakuru National Park

This morning we bid the Mara farewell before heading to Lake Nakuru National Park, here we will enjoy an afternoon game drive through the park. Lake Nakuru is home to large flocks of Flamingos and pelicans as well as black & white rhino, leopard, lion and numerous buck. Originally created as a bird sanctuary, Lake Nakuru was upgraded to National Park status in 1968.

Route: Lake Nakuru to Jinja

This morning we not only cross the border into Uganda, but shortly after setting out this morning we cross the Equator on our way to Jinja. Jinja is Uganda’s second largest city and most famous as the point where the Nile (officially the Victoria Nile) flows out of Lake Victoria and begins the 6695 kilometre journey to Egypt and the Mediterranean

Route: Jinja to Masindi

After a quick stop in the city of Kampala, we head in the direction of The Murchison Falls National Park. Also referred to as the Kabaraga Falls, Murchison Falls is a waterfall found on the course of the great Nile and is located within the Murchison National Park. The park is recognized as one of the best National Parks in Uganda. After settling into our accommodation in Masindi, your guide will brief you on the activities for the following day.

Budongo Forest is the biggest Mahogany forest found in the whole of East Africa and is home to the largest number of chimpanzees throughout Uganda. It is believed that there are between 600 – 700 chimpanzees in Budongo and this morning we will meet up with our chimp guide who will take us on our trek through the forest in search of the chimps. We will also enjoy a boat cruise in the park. Note: As the Chimp trekking is limited to 12 guests per trek, should there be more than 12 guests on a tour the trekking will be split between the morning and the afternoon. Therefore you may find that you will first do the game drive activity followed by the Chimp trekking or vice versa. Please allow for flexibility.

Route: Masindi to Lake Mburo

This morning we depart Masindi and transfer towards the edges of the Queen Elizabeth National Park. Our accommodation for the night is nestled atop a hill overlooking Lake Kikorongo.

Route: Kampala to Lake Bunyonyi

Crossing the Equator once more we travel south to the beautiful scenery of Lake Bunyonyi. With eager anticipation we prepare for the upcoming Gorilla trekking excursion and tonight we will receive a briefing on what to expect.

Route: Lake Bunyonyi National Park to the starting point of the gorilla trek (in safari or smaller vehicles)

The mountain gorilla is extremely endangered and while exact numbers vary it is widely assumed that there are only around 650 left. Visiting the gorillas is a great way to support their future on earth as the money spent on permits is used for their protection. An extremely important part of the future conservation of the remaining gorillas rests in the community development work – as local communities change their attitudes towards wildlife and start to protect rather than poach, the future of the mountain gorilla is assured. As permits granting permission to visit the gorillas are extremely limited we require flexibility in both the tour itinerary and where we actually visit them. The home of the mountain gorillas is completely at odds with man-made borders and so their range encompasses Uganda, Rwanda and the DRC (Democratic Republic of the Congo). Whenever possible we choose to make use of the National Park in Uganda, but this depends on the availability of permits. Should we not obtain permits to visit he mountain gorillas in Uganda then we will inform all passengers beforehand that the tour will travel to Rwanda or DRC. On your free day in Bunyonyi you will have the opportunity to participate in certain optional activities. You can also go hiking or explore the area on a mountain bike.

Although there are 2 days allocated to Gorilla Trekking you will only spend one day on the trek. The other days are there to provide a large enough window in which to obtain permits and to allow the entire group to trek if there are more than 6 of you on the tour.

Route: Lake Bunyonyi to Kampala

This morning we set off on our return journey to Kampala and make a third crossing of the Equator along our way. Tonight your guide will brief you on the activities available in Jinja so that you can plan your day tomorrow. We overnight in Kampala and enjoy an optional dinner out.

Route: Kampala to Jinja

A short distance from Kampala, Jinja offers many exciting activities and your guide will assist you to plan for this day. Most activities are focussed around the waters of the Nile and these include rafting, kayaking and a variety of cruises on Africa’s largest river. While those who may be less inclined to water sports can enjoy horse riding or a quadbike adventure on dry land.

Route: Jinja to Eldoret

Returning to Kenya we visit Eldoret, the country’s 5th largest city. The Great Rift Valley is still the dominant geographical feature of this region and the altitude at Eldoret is 2100 metres above sea level.

Route: Eldoret to Nairobi

Returning to Nairobi this afternoon we reflect on many memories that we have gathered together and brace ourselves for a return to the busy streets of Nairobi.

Route: Arusha to Nairobi

Today is free for you to explore the streets of Nairobi. A number of optional day trips can be booked including a visit to the Giraffe Centre and the Nairobi National Park.

Route: Nairobi to Arusha

Leaving behind the bustle of Nairobi we travel south to the Tanzanian border. 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.

Route: 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. (This morning, those guests who pre-purchased the Serengeti excursion will be collected early and will be separated from the group for the next 4 days).

Route: Karatu to Ngorongoro Crater and return

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.

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 free 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.

Route: Karatu to Arusha

Wrapping up our time in Karatu and Ngorongoro Crater, we board our truck and return to Arusha. Upon arrival in Arusha we are reunited with our fellow travellers who opted for the Serengeti excursion.

Route: Arusha to 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.

Route: Bagamoyo to Nungwi (Zanzibar)

We complete the short journey into Dar es Salaam this morning and board our ferry for the two hour trip to Zanzibar. After arriving at the ferry port we board make our way to Nungwi on the northern shores of the island. There are a number of excursions that can be arranged and your guide will be on hand to assist.

Today is a free day 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.

Route: Nungwi to Stone Town

This morning we explore the beautiful Jozani Forest before our visit to Nungwi comes to an end as we transfer by road to Stone Town. Boasting a rich history this busy port was once a landmark on both the Slave and Spice trade routes. Our afternoon will be spent visiting Prison Island, which was once a place where slaves were detained. The trip to Prison Island is about 20 – 30 minutes (per way) by boat transfer. We spend our final night on the island on the beaches south of the port city.

Route: Zanzibar via Dar es Salaam to Mikumi

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.

Route: Mikumi to 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.

Route: Iringa to Chilumba

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.

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.

Route: North Lake Malawi to Central 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.

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.

Route: Nkhotakota Region to South Luangwa National Park

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.

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.

Route: South Luangwa to 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.

Route: Petauke to 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.

Route: Lusaka to Victoria Falls

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.

The bustling adventure town of Victoria Falls offers a range of optional activities for those wanting a dose of adrenaline. For the more relaxed traveller there are craft markets to explore and a delicious high tea is on offer at the Victoria Falls Hotel.

Route: Victoria Falls to Kasane

This afternoon is set aside for exploring the Chobe National Park. We begin our exploration in 4×4 vehicles, which allows us an up close and personal experience with the many elephants that frequent the river in the afternoons. The afternoon ends with a leisurely boat cruise and a meal served around the campfire.

Route: Kasane to Nata

Leaving Kasane early, we set off for Nata where we will overnight. The route south, from Kasane to Nata is often referred to as the ‘game drive route’. There is always a chance of seeing wildlife of some sort along the way. On arrival in Nata, you will be able to book an afternoon guided excursion to the Makgadikgadi Pans and Nata Sanctuary to appreciate the spectacular view and a sundowner.

Route: Nata to Maun

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 – this could take place on day 6). Those guests who have pre-purchased the 2-night package – will be transferred into the Delta today and will re-join the group on the morning of day 41. Please speak to your consultant for a copy of the programme for your Okavango Delta Excursion.

Route: Maun – poling station – Okavango Delta – Maun

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.

Route: Maun to Ghanzi/San Guided

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

Route: Ghanzi to Windhoek

We start early this morning as we continue west and cross the border into Namibia, travelling onwards to the capital city of Windhoek. (Our accommodation for the night is situated halfway between the city and the airport).

Route:Windhoek to Etosha National

Before taking aim for Etosha National Park, we will take a short walk through the city centre and have the opportunity to view some its better known landmarks. After our city walk, 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 game drive as we enter the park and travel the short distance to our overnight rest camp for the night.

Etosha is the venue for some of the most unique game 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.

Route: Etosha to Kamanjab

We will rise early and enjoy our last game drive 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.

Route: Kamanjab to 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).

Route: Brandberg to 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 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.

Today is a free 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.

Route: Swakopmund to Solitaire

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.

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 4×4 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.

Route: Solitaire to Keetmanshoop

We will have a leisurely morning before we pack up and turn east and head for Keetmanshoop. Today we spend most of the day driving onto our next destination.

Route: Keetmanshoop to Ai-Ais

Contrary to belief, the quiver tree is not really a tree, but a plant that can grow to between 200 – 300 years old. Our exploration continues this morning with a visit to the Quiver Tree Forest and 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.

Route:Ai-Ais to 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.

Route: Orange river to Citrusdal

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.

Route: Citrusdal to Cape Town

The Cederberg region not only boasts spectacular mountains and orange farms, but it is also the home of the Rooibos bush. 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. The Cederberg region is known for its mountain fynbos and spectacular views of the rugged Cederberg Mountains. 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.