27 Day Nairobi to Johannesburg Ultimate Adventure

Travel in style in the overland vehicle as you journey through the semi-arid lands of the Maasai people en route to Arusha, Tanzania. Experience the breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance and share stories with your traveling companions.

Accommodation: Meserani Snake Park (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Route: Nairobi – Arusha
Distance: 286 km

We are now ready to experience the Africa that we have all imagined, the experience that has been depicted in books, movies, and television time and time again. The Serengeti is one of the most famous national parks in Africa. Grab your cameras, purchase a quirky bucket hat, and head out on a wildlife safari drive.

Enjoy a 3-day and 2-night excursion into the Ngorongoro Crater and the park itself, which is home to abundant wildlife, vast golden plains, and thorny acacia trees.

As you change into a specialized 4×4 safari vehicle with a 7-seater capacity, you will meet an experienced safari driver/guide, who will help you experience a wonderful encounter with wildlife. Safari vehicles are equipped with sliding windows and a large pop-up roof, so you can enjoy the scenery and wildlife as you travel. The small size of these vehicles allows the group to maneuver through the wildlife areas more easily than the overland adventure vehicles. It is anticipated that the group will be divided among several vehicles due to the smaller size of the vehicles than the overland adventure vehicle .

Accommodation: Seronera Campsite (or similar)
Included Highlights: Serengeti National Park Safari
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Route: Arusha – Serengeti National Park
Distance: 320 km

Get your buddies together and venture out for one last morning safari in the Serengeti. Before breaking down camp, watch the animal kingdom come to life in this grassland savannah as the sun rises higher in the sky.

Next, we will travel to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, which has some of the best wildlife viewing in Africa. Watch as animals meander around below the permanent water supply on the crater floor as you take in the epic views from the crater rim. After setting up camp near the crater rim in the late afternoon, you can spend the remainder of the day exploring one of the world’s most spectacular wildlife sanctuaries.

It is important to note that if you have pre-booked the Serengeti Balloon Safari, it is likely that this is the day for this activity! As it is subject to change, the guide will confirm the exact date and time. Although you will miss the morning wildlife safari drive with the group, you will be able to see a lot more from the air! In the event that you have not yet pre-booked, you may add it to your checkout page, or you may ask your travel agent for assistance.

We would like to remind you that due to the high altitude of our camp, temperatures may drop at night. During the evening and the following morning, it is recommended that you bring extra layers of clothing.

Accommodation: Simba Campsite (or similar)
Included Highlights: Serengeti National Park Safari
Optional Activities: Serengeti Balloon Safari 599 USD per person
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Route: Serengeti National Park – Ngorongoro
Distance: 160 km

Now is the time to experience “Africa’s Garden of Eden” up close and personal. As part of the final safari experience today, the group will descend to the crater floor. If you want to see wildlife, make sure you have your camera charged and ready because this is the place to do it (and we are looking forward to seeing you)!

It is highly likely that animals are bound to this area by the crater walls and its enclosed nature, which means it has created its own ecosystem, including grasslands, swamps, acacia forests, and Lake Makat.

In the late morning, the group will depart the crater with full cameras and even more full hearts and return to Arusha. Let yourself enjoy the passing scenery as you cruise along, share stories along the way, or pick out your favorite photos from earlier.

A place as majestic as this does not allow time to rest or stop. Embark on your journey to the Indian Ocean early in the morning and enjoy the varied landscapes along the way. On the road towards Bagamoyo, you will see the mighty Mt Kilimanjaro in the distance.

An important trading port on the central east African coast in the late 19th century, this town has recently been designated as a World Heritage Site. Experience the quaint atmosphere of Bagamoyo on your own by strolling through the narrow, unpaved streets.

This morning, you will be transferred from your Arusha hotel to the airport for your flight to Zanzibar. Once you arrive in Stone Town, you will have the opportunity to explore on your own during the afternoon. You are welcome to stay an additional night in Stone Town and meet up with the group the next morning. The only included meal is breakfast.

Accommodation: Firefly Bagamoyo Campsite (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Route: Arusha – Bagamoyo
Distance: 590 km

The next destination you will be visiting will be just what you need after the hectic first few days of your trip. Bagamoyo is the starting point for your journey to Dar es Salaam, and then you will board a ferry to Zanzibar, a tropical paradise.

Be prepared to enjoy picturesque island beaches that will make you think about living off the grid and staying here for the rest of your life. Get ready to enjoy this Tanzanian archipelago, take plenty of photos, and relax in a place that has long attracted backpackers and adventurers to its sandy shores that few places on earth can compare with.

Zanzibar is a predominantly Muslim country. A woman or man in shorts dressed in an immodest manner will be harassed and cause great offense in Stone Town. It is customary for travellers to cover up when walking along the beach, although there are some exceptions to this rule. Ask for permission before taking a photograph.

Accommodation: Fun Beach (or similar)
Included Highlight: Stone Town Walking Tour 20-40USD per person
Meals: Breakfast
Route: Bagamoyo – Dar es Salaam – Stone Town– Jambiani
Distance: 120 km

Prepare to seize the day as you wake up in this island paradise. Imagine Africa meeting Arabia and adding the Indian Ocean to the mix as the cherry on top of one of the world’s great cultural crossroads.

During the day, you may spend it as you choose; you may dive, snorkel, board a sailing trip, or just relax on the beach. As an East African Indian Ocean destination, Zanzibar’s tropical setting and unique culture make it an enjoyable place to spend time.

Accommodation: Fun Beach (or similar)
Optional Activities: Snorkelling 35-60USD per person, Safari Blue – Sailing Day Trip 60-100USD per person, Scuba Diving 65USD per person, Swahili Cultural Tour 3h-4h 70-200USD per person, Jozani Forest Tour 3h-4h 35-150USD per person
Meals: Breakfast

Today, your greatest challenge will be to pull yourself away from the beauty that surrounds you in Jambiani. Even so, you still have the option to spend one final night on this enchanted island in a more local location if that makes you feel any better. Explore the heart of Zanzibar from the other side of the island by traveling back to Stone Town. Throughout Stone Town, you will pass by balconies and enormous wooden carved doors as you wind through the winding unpaved alleys.

Explore the streets and squares for hours, drinking strong coffee from street vendors and purchasing sweets from tiny cafes. You will also be able to see tinga-tinga paintings, antique shops, beautifully printed cloths (kangas and kikois worn by locals), little carved chests with copper inlays, and spices – all of which make wonderful presents or souvenirs.

Accommodation: Spice Palace Hotel (or similar)
Included Highlight: Spice Plantation Tour
Optional Activities: Stone Town Walking Tour 20-40USD per person
Meals: Breakfast
Route: Jambiani – Stone Town
Distance: 60 km

Time to bid farewell to this underrated paradise and return to the mountains further inland. As you ride the ferry back to Dar es Salaam, you will see the islands getting smaller and smaller. Next, you will board the Lando again to continue west towards the group campsite, located in the Baobab Valley along the banks of the Ruaha River.

Enjoy a spectacular sunset in Tanzania’s lush and fertile lands as the light fades and you set up camp. As you drift off to sleep, search for shooting stars in the night sky and make a few wishes.

Accommodation: Tanswiss Campsite (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Route: Stone Town – Dar es Salaam – Baobab Valley
Distance: 560 km

Watch as the shadows of the baobab trees fall on the ground as the sun rises, then pack up camp and travel another day together. Consider journaling, taking a nap, or swapping inside jokes with your group (because let’s face it, you’ve got some by now).

Today, the group will travel south to Iringa, where they will visit a local crafts center. Explore the town in search of cool overlooks and pick up a souvenir to take home.

Accommodation: Kisolanza Farm (or similar)
Included Highlight: Iringa Craft Centre
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Route: Baobab Valley – Iringa
Distance: 180 km

As you pass from Tanzania into Malawi, you will be able to cross off another country from your travel list. The group is scheduled to stop at Lake Malawi in Chitimba, where the beach offers spectacular views of the mountains in the background and Tanzania is visible just across the lake.

It is a place where nature is king, and you will meet some of the friendliest people you will ever meet. Imagine clear shimmering waters with schools of colourful cichlids swarming in the depths.

Accommodation: Chitimba Beach Lodge & Camp (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Route: Iringa – Chitimba
Distance: 235 km

As we continue along the shores of Lake Malawi, we will visit another beautiful destination. You are experiencing some of the best scenery that Africa has to offer, from oceans to mountains to lakes. In the afternoon, the group will travel to Kande Beach, one of the most picturesque enclaves in the world. After arriving at the lake, you may choose to get into the water or hike along the shoreline and take in the scenery that surrounds you.

Accommodation: Kande Beach Lodge & Campsite (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Route: Chitimba – Kande Beach

It is a beautiful morning, the birds are singing, the sun is shining, and the waters of Lake Malawi are calling your name, begging to be explored.

Get your camera and swimsuit ready for a fun-filled day. Take a leisurely stroll along the shore, grab a snorkel and explore life beneath the surface, take a leisurely swim off the shore, or take a tour of the nearby Tonga Village. A traditional dinner will then be served at a local home for the group.

Accommodation: Kande Beach Lodge & Campsite (or similar)
Included highlight: Kande Beach Local Dinner
Optional Activities: Snorkelling, Village Walk, Swimming
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

A new day brings a new adventure! A border crossing will take place today between Malawi and Zambia, which is landlocked. The group will be transported by Lando to Chipata, the capital of the Eastern Province. Formerly known as Fort Jameson, this town is now a popular refueling point for overlanders traveling to South Luangwa National Park.

Accommodation: Mama Rula’s Camp (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Route: Kande Beach – Chipata
Distance: 400 km

Our journey today takes us to South Luangwa National Park in order to observe wildlife. But before the group goes on its way to see the Tribal Textiles Market & Courtyard Cafe, it will stop for lunch first.

You can then choose to participate in a wildlife safari drive either in the afternoon or at night in the national park. Ensure you have your cameras ready to capture images of giraffes, elephants, and Cape Buffalos in this hidden gem of a location that is the habitat of the largest numbers of these animals.

Accommodation: Wildlife Camp (or similar)
Included Highlights: Tribal Textiles Market & Courtyard Cafe
Optional Activities: South Luangwa Wildlife Safari Drive
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Route: Chipata – Mfuwe
Distance: 150 km

During the day, you can spend your time in the wildlife haven of South Luangwa National Park as you wish. You may participate in a walking safari (remember that walking safaris are seasonal), go on a night drive or visit a local village.

Regardless of what you decide to do, always remember to have fun and live in the moment. In general, life is more enjoyable when lived in the present and hey, so is travel. Don’t let your expectations limit your enjoyment of this place.

Accommodation: Wildlife Camp (or similar)
Optional Activities: South Luangwa Wildlife Safari Drive, South Luangwa Walking safari
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

It is time to rise and shine and begin our journey for the day. There is a great deal of ground to cover, so be prepared to depart early and arrive in your next destination late in the afternoon.

In spite of the long journey along rough and bumpy roads, you will arrive at a private farm 29km (18 miles) outside the capital of Zambia and will feel so accomplished as we all know that driving in rough terrain is not easy. The zebras, buffaloes, and antelope who freely roam the property are a sight to behold. Get out, stretch your legs, and enjoy the sights. Relax by the pool or grab a cold drink at the camp’s bar (cheers!).

In between driving days, we will make an overnight stop in Lusaka, so we will not have time to explore the city.

Accommodation: Eureka Camping Park (or similar)
Optional Activities: South Luangwa Wildlife Safari Drive, South Luangwa Walking safari
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Route: Mfuwe – Lusaka
Distance: 750km

Take advantage of this free day in Victoria Falls to get up close and personal with one of the world’s largest waterfalls. Take in the sight of tons of water thundering in over the edge of the falls in the distance while feeling the water splashing your skin on the observation deck. You can make your day as relaxing or as thrilling as you wish.

Whitewater rafting, scenic helicopter flights over the falls (epic selfies anybody?) or bungee jumping with Victoria Falls in sight are all recommended for the adventurous.

Accommodation: Explorers Village Camping (or similar)
Optional Activities: Victoria Falls Visit 30USD per person, Zambezi Bungee Jump 168USD per person, Zipline over the Zambezi 47USD per person, Bridge Swing over the Zambezi 168USD per person, Zambezi River Sunset Cruise 50USD per person, Victoria Falls Helicopter Ride – 15min 165USD per person, Victoria Falls Helicopter Ride – 25min 299USD per person, Victoria Falls Whitewater Rafting 135USD per person, Full Day Excursion to Chobe National Park 170USD per person, Princess Laundry Service 10USD per person
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch,
Route: Lusaka – Victoria Falls
Distance: 543 km

Early in the morning, wake up to the sound of Victoria Falls thundering in the distance before departing on the long, but scenic drive to Matobo National Park. Consider taking this time to enjoy the scenery, get to know your group better, and consider what you hope to gain from the excursion.

Accommodation: African Wanderer Campsite (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Route: Victoria Falls – Matobo National Park
Distance: 475 km

Today we explore this small park from the seat of an open wildlife safari vehicle and see the stunning wildlife, which calls this small park home, as the vehicle bumps along past huge granite masses shaped by time and the elements.

Matobo National Park in Zimbabwe offers huge granite masses, land that has been walked on for forty thousand years, and peaceful silence that will make you question why you would ever want to return to the modern world.

Accommodation: African Wanderer Campsite (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlights: Guided Rhino Walk, Open Vehicle Wildlife Safari Drive

A new day brings a new slice of adventure! Take advantage of the day to get to know the people in your group. Take backseat selfies, share travel stories, and enjoy the African scenery as you cross the border into South Africa. During the evening, relax in the mineral pool at our campsite, tip your head toward the sky, and bask in the warm water.

Accommodation: Tshipise Aventura Resort (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Activities: Hot Springs Soak
Route: Matobo National Park – Tshipise
Distance: 600 km

You have arrived in wildlife country. Kruger National Park is one of those places you will visit but wish to return to over and over again. Approximately 5 million acres make this park one of the best places in Africa to view wild animals, so prepare for an exciting adventure… (but you already knew that!) Grab your camera and make your ultimate African safari fantasy a reality.

On a full-day wildlife safari drive, you will be able to see lions, elephants, and many other animals. Word of advice? Don’t forget that the animals are not the only thing that matters. Besides giant baobabs, fever trees, and marula trees, this sanctuary is home to many other species of plants. Enjoy prime viewing locations such as Hippo Pool, Kruger Tablets, and Red Rocks as you enjoy the natural surroundings.

Accommodation: Satara Campsite (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlights: Kruger Wildlife Safari Drive
Route: Tshipise – Kruger National Park

There is no way to describe in words the beauty of the National Parks of South Africa which was only glimpsed yesterday. Today you will be taking another wildlife safari drive in the Lando in Kruger National Park. (Upgrade alert! A 4×4 safari vehicle is available as an alternative.)

Take a look at the sky today and try to locate everything that you did not have time to locate yesterday. As the night settles around you, fill your bellies with a traditional dinner together. Following dinner, grab someone’s hand and work up a sweat with some local dancing.

Accommodation: Aan De Vliet Holiday Resort (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlights: Kruger Wildlife Safari Drive, Traditional Dinner and Local Dancing
Optional Activities: Kruger National Park Open Vehicle Wildlife Safari Drive – Full day – 800ZAR per person

You may be leaving the bush behind today, but the memories will last a lifetime. Therefore, don’t despair, rather look forward with excitement as you return to Johannesburg, South Africa’s most important economic center.

Accommodation: Airport Game Lodge (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Distance: 407 km

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.