Cape Town to Serengeti Adventure Safari
Summary of this Overland Safari
Do it all on this Cape Town to Serengeti Safari – don’t just dip your toe in, take the plunge and travel to the wildest and most beautiful places of Southern and East Africa in a customised overland adventure truck. For the young and free-spirited, this comprehensive safari is designed for under 40s, so you will journey with like minded young travellers from across the globe.
Crossing the continent from west to east coast, we drive from Cape Town at the southernmost tip of Africa, all the way up to East Africa and the Serengeti Plains of Tanzania, ending off in Nairobi, Kenya. Experience vast deserts, wildlife-rich savannahs, remote plains, mighty falls, tropical island and lake, untamed delta and African villages, towns and cities, exploring South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania, Zanzibar Island and a touch of Kenya.
Itinerary for this Tour
Day 1: Cape Town – South Africa
Ranked one of the best cities in the world, Cape Town is where our journey of a lifetime begins. Try to arrive early so that you have time to explore Cape Town and the scenic Cape Winelands of South Africa, before the safari begins.
This evening we meet up and your guide runs through the nitty-gritty of this Cape Town to Serengeti Safari Adventure.
Day 2: Cape Town to Cederberg – South Africa
And we are off, leaving Cape Town and heading north and then inland to the mountainous Cederberg Region. We have lunch along the coast en route and soak up the rugged scenery of the Western Cape.
This afternoon we arrive at our camp on a farm overlooking the vineyards in the fertile Cederberg area. There is time to laze by the pool or enjoy optional wine tasting and explore.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 3: Cederberg to Orange River – South Africa
Continuing further north we drive through the Namaqualand region, known for its profusion of wildflowers in spring. Into the remote Northern Cape we go, stopping at the Orange River for the night. Officially called the Gariep River, the Orange River is a canoeing hotspot and this afternoon you have the option of canoeing on the river yourself.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 4: Orange River to Fish River Canyon – Namibia
We cross from South Africa into Namibia in our overland adventure vehicle today, making our way to the mighty Fish River Canyon. On our first night in Namibia we watch the sun go down from the rim of the Fish River Canyon, the largest canyon in Africa.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 5: Fish River Canyon to Namib Desert – Namibia
From the lunar landscapes of the Fish River Canyon area we travel into the red-orange sands of the Namib, one of the oldest deserts in the world.
We set up camp and go watch the sunset at Sesriem Canyon, a narrow gorge formed by the Tsauchab River over centuries of erosion.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 6: Namib Desert – Namibia
Today we experience the Sossusvlei Dunes area of the Namib Desert. The ochre dunes of Sossusvlei are said to be the tallest in the world, creating an other-worldly sea of shifting sands. We stop to climb the iconic Dune 45, surveying the vast desert from the top. This morning we also visit the Sossusvlei pan – walking around to take in this surreal setting where the cracked white ground contrasts with blackened dead trees, surrounded by vivid orange-red dunes.
Returning to camp we have lunch and pack up camp, setting off to our next desert camp. Then you have the chance to take an optional desert walk to find out how the San Bushmen have survived in this harsh terrain for thousands of years.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 7: Namib Desert to Swakopmund – Namibia
On day seven we hop back on our overland adventure truck and head for Swakopmund, the premier seaside destination in Namibia.
Travel through barren desert, across gravel plains and arid mountain passes, arriving in Swakopmund later today.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch
Day 8: Swakopmund – Namibia
Have heaps of heart-racing fun on day eight, taking advantage of the myriad of adventure activities on offer in and around Swakopmund.
Options include sky diving, sand boarding, sea kayaking and quad biking, amongst many other exciting excursions. In between you can explore the historic, German-influenced city and watch life go by from a side-walk cafe.
Day 9: Swakopmund to Spitzkoppe – Namibia
And we are off, driving inland to Spitzkoppe, one of the best known landmarks of Namibia. Take a walk around this unusual area dominated by the ancient granite boulders, of the towering Spitzkoppe massif.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 10: Spitzkoppe to Damaraland – Namibia
Travel further into the stark and expansive Damaraland area, forming part of remote Kunene Region of northwestern Namibia. Along the way we pause to browse the local arts and crafts of the Himba, Herero, and Damara tribes.
Arriving at our camp this afternoon we stop in at the Damaraland Living Museum to learn more about Damara customs and culture. You have the option of joining a guided tour to the huge collection of rock engravings at Twyfelfontein, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 11: Damaraland to Etosha National Park – Namibia
Venture into our first African wildlife reserve – Etosha National Park. We drive through the untamed wilderness in our adventure vehicle, spotting wildlife at the watering holes and in the rugged bush. Keep your eyes open for predators, ranging from lions and hyenas to cheetahs and leopards. Then there are the herbivores – rhinos, elephants, giraffes, wildebeest, zebras and all kinds of antelopes.
Tonight you can head to the floodlit waterhole at camp to watch wildlife coming to drink. Alternatively you can embark on an optional night game drive in an open safari vehicle – an exhilarating wildlife experience!
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 12: Etosha National Park – Namibia
Day 12: an entire day for tracking down the wildlife of Etosha Park and immersing yourself in the African bush. We explore Etosha in our adventure vehicle, visiting watering holes to see the wildlife action.
Etosha is known for its dramatic wildlife sightings as animals compete for food and water in this harsh environment scattered with watering holes. We are sure to be highly entertained on our game drives, with over 100 mammals species and an abundance of birds at the Etosha Pan.
Embark on an optional open vehicle game drive beginning late this afternoon and lasting into the evening, an excellent time of day for game viewing.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 13: Etosha National Park to Windhoek – Namibia
Head south from rugged bush to modern city. Our next stop is the capital of Namibia, Windhoek. Last night in Namibia – sample the night life in Windhoek, where African and German influences mingle.
- Meals included: Breakfast
Day 14: Windhoek to Ghanzi – Botswana
Goodbye Namibia. Hello Botswana.
Drive into the remote Kalahari Desert – a massive semi-arid expanse of sandveld consisting of low scrub and hardy grasses. Meet the local Kalahari Bushmen and join an optional San Bushmen Walk this evening to find out how these hunter-gatherers have survived in this harsh habitat for thousands of years. We camp near Ghanzi, watching an ancient dance ceremony of the San around the campfire tonight.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 15: Ghanzi to Maun – Botswana
We’re up and off to Maun, on the outskirts of the watery Okavango Delta.
In the afternoon you can take an optional scenic flight over the Okavango Delta, the top wilderness treasure of Botswana. The flight gives you sweeping views over the beautiful plains and winding waterways of the delta, and the chance to spot elephants, hippos, giraffes and other wildlife from above. Alternatively you can spend the afternoon relaxing at the camp.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 16: Maun to Okavango Delta – Botswana
Leave the bulk of your luggage behind in Maun, as we set off on our unforgettable mission into the Okavango Delta. First we overland it in a 4×4 safari vehicle, then we trade our wheels for dug-out mekoros and navigate deeper into the delta. Sit back and relax as your local guide poles you through the reed-lined channels and secluded islands in a traditional-style canoe.
Get back to nature at the bush camp, having lunch before we set up camp. Then we venture into the pristine bush on foot, looking out for the diverse animals and birds of the Okavango Delta and getting a closer look at the flora and smaller creatures. Back at camp it is time for a sundowner followed by a laid-back evening in the wilderness. Sit around the campfire with the locals and join the dancing and singing, before falling asleep under starry skies to the sound of the wild.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 17: Okavango Delta to Gweta – Botswana
Wake up to the sounds and sights of the Okavango Delta early this morning and join the sunrise bush walk in this pristine environment.
After the nature walk, we glide then 4×4 out of the delta, making our way back to Maun.
From Maun we drive east in our overland adventure truck to Gweta, where we camp under big old baobab trees. Arriving at the camp you are free to explore the area and marvel at the ancient trees, take a dip in the pool and enjoy a hot shower after our night of roughing it in the delta.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 18: Gweta to Kasane & Chobe – Botswana
Up and onwards – drive to Kasane in the northeastern corner of Botswana. Kasane is the closest base for safaris in Chobe National Park and after lunch you can choose your preferred means of exploration. Cruise along Chobe River in an open-sided boat or set off on an open vehicle game drive in the national park. The boat cruise is recommended for today as you can do an optional game drive tomorrow morning.
Cruising along the Chobe River be ready to see plenty of elephants, as Chobe hosts one of the largest populations in Africa. You are sure to see crocodiles and hippos, along with abundant birdlife, antelopes and more.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 19: Kasane to Livingstone – Zambia
Today we leave Botswana, crossing the Zambezi River into Zambia at the Kazungula Ferry.
Arriving in Livingstone you are free to participate in the optional activities of your choosing. Be sure to visit the mighty Victoria Falls – one of the natural wonders of the world, known as ‘the Smoke that Thunders’.
Vic Falls is one of the major adventure hotspots in Africa, offering a multitude of exciting activities. Go bungee jumping, white water rafting, abseiling, or canoeing. Take a scenic flight over Victoria Falls by plane, helicopter or microlight to see the full grandeur of this famous natural feature.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch
Day 20 & 21: Livingstone – Zambia
Two days to pack in optional adventure activities galore and explore Livingstone.
Don’t miss a visit to Victoria Falls to marvel at the world’s largest sheet of falling water. Take a zip-line ride or go gorge swinging in Batoka Gorge, go canoeing or game viewing, or visit Livingstone Island above Vic Falls.
The white water rafting on this part of the Zambezi is rated as some of the best in the world, so take this chance to experience the adrenalin inducing adventure. Other options include cultural tours, horse back riding, tram rides across Victoria Falls Bridge and sunset cruises on the Zambezi River, amongst others.
- Meals included: Breakfast x2
Day 22: Livingstone to Lusaka – Zambia
Set off early this morning, driving up to Lusaka in our purpose built adventure vehicle. The roads get rougher and the landscapes more rural as we head to a game farm near Lusaka, the capital of Zambia. Arriving in the late afternoon, you can take a dip in the pool and look out for game at the private reserve, including buffalos, zebras and antelopes.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 23: Lusaka to Petauke – Zambia
Cover more ground in our adventure truck today as we drive to Petauke in the less developed Eastern Province of Zambia.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 24: Petauke to Mfuwe & South Luangwa Valley – Zambia
On day 24 we complete the journey to Mfuwe village at the South Luangwa National Park, one of the finest wildlife reserves in Africa.
Reaching the remote Luangwa Valley we set up camp along the river and have the chance to embark on an optional night game drive in the wild South Luangwa Park.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 25: Mfuwe & South Luangwa Park – Zambia
An entire day to explore the fertile South Luangwa Valley – Zambia’s premier game viewing area.
This scenic wildlife park is one of the more remote game viewing destinations in Africa, hosting a high density of wildlife over different vegetation zones. The national park is home to predators, such as lion, leopard, hyena and wild dog and herds of buffalo and elephant. Unusual species include endemic Thornicroft’s giraffe, Crawshay’s zebra and Cookson’s wildebeest, whilst common antelope species abound. Bird watching is also superb with around 400 species and exceptional migrational sightings.
Here you can take an optional walking safari or night game drive with the top-notch guides of South Luangwa National Park. You can also visit the local village for a cultural experience.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 26: South Luangwa Valley to Kande Beach – Malawi
Having experienced world-class game viewing in the magnificent South Luangwa Park, we leave Zambia behind, crossing into Malawi.
Once in Malawi we make our way to the vast Lake Malawi – the top destination in this sub-tropical country of diverse landscapes.
The third largest lake in Africa, we spend the next three days exploring Lake Malawi and its sandy shores, dotted with fishing villages. Lake Malawi is known as the ‘Lake of Stars’ given the flickering lights of fishing boats out on the lake at night.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 27: Kande Beach – Malawi
Today we are based at Kande Beach, one of the top beach spots along Lake Malawi. Laze on the sandy beaches, swim in the clear, warm waters and enjoy a variety of optional activities. Go snorkelling, canoeing or scuba diving, head out onto the lake in a catamaran or simply explore the area and visit a local village.
This evening we enjoy a traditional dinner in one of the local homes.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 28: Kande Beach to Chitimba – Malawi
Drive north to Chitimba Beach today. Chitimba is set on a dramatic stretch of Lake Malawi’s shores, with lovely views over the shimmering lake and scenic mountains.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 29: Chitimba – Malawi
Our last day at Lake Malawi, relax at the beach or enjoy optional activities. Hike up to the old Livingstonia mission, and take a dip at Manchewe Falls along the way, or visit a local village on foot.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 30: Chitimba to Iringa – Tanzania
Time to travel into our sixth African country – Tanzania. We cross from northern Malawi into Tanzania, driving up into the highlands and out of the Great Rift Valley. This scenic drive takes us over stunning mountain passes and through rolling tea plantations to Iringa.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 31: Iringa to Dar es Salaam – Tanzania
On day 31 we reach the East Coast of Africa, having started our journey on the West Coast at the tip of Africa.
Drive to the rapidly-growing city of Dar es Salaam, passing through rural Tanzania in our custom-built adventure vehicle. We overnight in this megacity on the Indian Ocean coastline, preparing for our trip to the Zanzibar Archipelago tomorrow.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 32: Dar es Salaam to Nungwi – Zanzibar
Let the tropical island holiday begin! Ferry to Stone Town on Zanzibar Island and transfer up north to the charming village of Nungwi. Known for its pretty beaches, this is our base for exploring exotic Zanzibar.
- Meals included: Breakfast
Day 33: Nungwi – Zanzibar
Kick back and enjoy island life – go to the beach and swim in the azure waters of the Indian Ocean. Go snorkelling or scuba diving along the shores or on an island hopping boat trip. Opt for kiteboarding, cycling, parasailing or a village visit and simply enjoy some down time in this tropical paradise.
- Meals included: Breakfast
Day 34: Nungwi to Stone Town – Zanzibar
Return south to Stone Town and spend the night in this historic town. A major port on the East African trade route, Stone Town is a melting pot of African, Arabian, Indian and European cultural influences. Explore the town with its cobbled lanes, old palaces, mosques and bustling markets, enjoying fresh seafood on your last night in Zanzibar.
- Meals included: Breakfast
Day 35: Stone Town to Korogwe – Tanzania
Catch the ferry back to the mainland of Tanzania and get ready for the long drive to the Northern Safari Circuit tomorrow.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 36: Korogwe to Arusha – Tanzania
Drive north through rural Tanzania to Arusha, passing Africa’s tallest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro, in the distance.
Spend the night in Arusha, gateway to the most famous Tanzanian game parks, making up the Northern Safari Circuit. Rest and prepare for our trip to Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, packing a smaller bag to take along.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 37: Arusha to Serengeti National Park – Tanzania
Start the day with an early breakfast before hitting the road in a 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up top.
This afternoon we embark on a game drive in the world-famous Serengeti National Park, en route to our overnight camp. Driving across the vast plains in the off-road vehicle enables you to take fantastic photographs through the large sliding windows and pop-up roof.
Serengeti National Park is one of the ultimate wildlife destinations in the world – hosting an abundance of wild animals across its scenic habitats.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 38: Serengeti National Park to Ngorongoro – Tanzania
Head out on a game viewing drive in the unforgettable Serengeti, most famous for its big cats and the annual Great Migration. Serengeti National Park offers excellent big cat sightings – lions, leopards and cheetahs, given the healthy predator populations supported by the abundant prey. The Wildebeest Migration is a wildlife spectacle like none other – massive herds of zebras, gazelles and wildebeest charging across the crocodile infested rivers and open plains, drawing predators of all kinds.
After our 4×4 game drive in Serengeti Park we move from the plains to highlands of Tanzania, travelling to the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, where we camp overnight.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 39: Ngorongoro to Arusha – Tanzania
One more game viewing gem – the Ngorongoro Crater, home to the Big Five. The largest unflooded volcanic crater in the world hosts arguably the highest concentration of wildlife in Africa. Packed with wildlife, game viewing in the lush Ngorongoro Crater sends us off on a high note.
In the late morning we drive up the crater walls and return to Arusha.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 40: Arusha to Nairobi – Kenya
Our last drive through African landscapes in the adventure truck – overland from Arusha in northern Tanzania to Nairobi, the capital of Kenya.
This evening our long journey comes to an end upon arrival in the exciting city of Nairobi.
- Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch
Tour Notes:
- Age restriction: 18 – 39 year olds only
- Group Size: maximum of 22 people (average 20)
- Transport: Overland Adventure Vehicle (OAV), 4×4 safari vehicles, minibus, ferry
- Accommodation: Participation camping (31 nts), simple hotels (3 nts), basic bush camping (2 nts), guesthouses (2 nts, sharing), hostel (1 nt, sharing).
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