tuuur.com - Worldwide Trips

Basic

Overland

Wildlife

Cape Town to Zanzibar

4.8

Excellent

16 reviews

41 days

Start

Start:

Finish

End:

Trip Code

UXOBC

Min Age

Trip Size

1 - 22

Physical Rating

Transport

Overland Vehicle, 4WD Safari Vehicle, Mokoro, Ferry, Minibus

Accommodation

Camping (with facilities) (31 nights), Camping (with basic facilities) (1 night), Camping (without facilities) (1 night), Cabin (3 nights), Hotel (2 night), Bunglow (2 night)

From £3,722(41 days)

Trip Informations

Travel from the southern tip of South Africa to Tanzania’s Spice Island on this epic 41-day overland adventure through Africa. Starting in Cape Town, you’ll journey through remote deserts, rolling savannas, and lush mountain ranges, and feel the spray of the mighty Victoria Falls. Visit five national parks, spot elephants, lions, and hippos on safari, and visit a jewellery workshop where snares once set by poachers are transformed into beautiful pieces. Unwind on beaches during your free time, sample local flavours, and glide through the Okavango Delta in a traditional mokoro. This journey takes you through the breathtaking landscapes, remarkable wildlife, and rich cultures that make Africa so unforgettable.

Why you’ll love this trip

Explore Africa’s national parks by overland truck, mokoro canoe, and 4WD safari vehicles. Spot iconic African wildlife, including hippos, buffalo and lions as you journey through South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi, Mikumi, and Etosha.

Listen to the songs and stories of Namibia’s San people, the oldest inhabitants of Southern Africa, and gain an insight into their traditional customs and beliefs.

Visit a workshop where local women transform snares set by poachers into beautiful jewellery inspired by the African landscape, with proceeds supporting conservation efforts.

Wild camp on a remote island deep in the Okavango Delta. As night falls, listen to the sounds of the bush coming alive.

Chill out on the white sands of Zanzibar’s northern beaches after spending a night exploring the winding alleyways of Stone Town.

Is this trip right for you?

No two journeys in Africa are identical. There will be many early starts either to make use of the better safari time or to beat the morning traffic on long travel days. Be prepared for travel times to be longer or shorter than advised. Weather and road conditions can change things significantly, so embrace the detours, shortcuts, and unforgettable moments along the way.

This is a participatory overland camping trip. That means you’ll be travelling with a group in a purpose-built vehicle, visiting remote communities, setting up your tent, helping out with camp chores, occasionally roughing it in the bush with no facilities, and getting the best possible views of iconic African wildlife. For more info on this style of travel, see our Africa overland page at tuuur.com/africa/overland.

Wild camping in the Okavango Delta means digging a bush toilet and going without a shower. For most travellers, this is a small price to pay for an immersive stay in nature.

The day-to-day itinerary features a selection of optional activities. Please note that this list is not exhaustive and is intended only as a guide. Prices are approximate and may change at the discretion of the local provider. All activities are subject to availability.

Itinerary

Explore Africa on a wildlife-rich adventure

DAY 1
Day 1 • Cape Town
Sawubona! Welcome to South Africa. With its stunning coastline, modern cityscape and nearby mountains, Cape Town is one of Africa's most exciting cities. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm this evening. If you arrive early, why not get out and explore Cape Town, maybe with a walk in Newlands Forest or by jumping on the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway. You could also head down to the waterfront to see Cape Town Stadium up close. After the meeting, ask your leader where the best dinner spots are and consider heading out for a welcome dinner with your group.
Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)
Meals
There are no meals included on this day.
Optional activities
Cape Town - Table Mountain Hike - ZAR2000
Cape Town - Table Mountain Aerial Cable - ZAR490
Cape Town - Robben Island Tour - ZAR600
Cape Town - Best of the Cape Combo Tour - Full Day - ZAR2800
Cape Town - Cape Peninsula and SUP Tour - Full Day - ZAR2100
Cape Town - Robben Island Ferry & Table Mountain Tour - Full Day - ZAR1800
Cape Town - Winelands Tour - Full Day - ZAR2000
Cape Town - Winelands Tour - Half Day - ZAR1500
Cape Town - Cape Peninsula & Table Mountain Tour - Full Day - ZAR2650
Cape Town - Cape Malay Cooking Tour - Half Day - ZAR1550
Cape Town - Township Experience - Half Day - ZAR1250
Cape Town - City and Waterfront Tour - Half Day - ZAR1450
Cape Town - Cape Peninsula & Kirstenbosch Tour - Full Day - ZAR2500
Cape Town - District Six & Bo-Kapp Cultural Tour - Half Day - ZAR1300
Victoria Falls - Simunye Show - USD58
Special information
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.
DAY 2
Day 2 • Western Cape
Leaving Cape Town behind, travel up the Western Cape today. Sit back, relax and enjoy the sprawling scenery. Tonight, you’ll stay on a working farm with your group. This is a great chance to gain an insight into everyday life in this remote part of South Africa. The surrounding countryside is perfectly explored on foot, so if there’s time, maybe take a walk around the nearby mountains and farms before settling in for the evening.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Dinner
Optional activities
Klawer - Winery Visit & Tasting - ZAR220
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.
Your camp tonight has shared facilities, a swimming pool, but no wi-fi. Accommodation upgrades are possible (subject to availability).
DAY 3
Day 3 • Orange River
Journey to the Orange River – the beautiful natural border between South Africa and Namibia. On the way, you'll pass through Namaqualand, which is renowned for its wildflowers that spring up from late July to mid-September. Traditionally known as the Gariep River, the Orange River is the longest in South Africa (2200 km). Its source is high up in the Drakensberg Mountain Range in Lesotho, and it flows into the Atlantic Ocean at Alexander Bay in South Africa.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Dinner
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 9 hours.
Your camp tonight has shared facilities and wi-fi is available for a token. Accommodation upgrades are possible (subject to availability).
DAY 4
Day 4 • Fish River Canyon
This morning, there’s an optional canoe adventure on the Orange River. Floating leisurely down the stream is a great way to discover the beauty of this region. After, head further west into the desert lands of Namibia towards Fish River Canyon. At 500 m deep and over 160 km long, Fish River Canyon is one of the largest canyons in the world. At any time of year there are remarkable photo opportunities here as you watch the colour of the granite rocks change as the sun goes down.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included activities
Fish River Canyon - Canyon Entry
Optional activities
Orange River - Guided Canoe Excursion - NAD585
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Your campsite tonight is equipped with showers, flush toilets, and a swimming pool. Wi-Fi is available but unreliable.
DAY 5
Day 5 • Sesriem
Be ready for a long travel day as you drive toward the fabled dunes of Namibia. You’ll have the opportunity to stop at a market or shop to stock up on supplies before tomorrow's bush camp. When you arrive, stretch your legs and take in the exciting desert scenes. You’ll be situated in the most famous part of the Namib Desert, among the vast dune fields – the most spectacular of which are found near the Sesriem Canyon. Get an early night in preparation for your dawn hike tomorrow.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 10 hours.
Your camp tonight has shared facilities, a swimming pool and wi-fi for a token. Accommodation upgrades are not available.
DAY 6
Day 6 • Sossusvlei
Wake up before dawn and scramble to the top of the dunes for a dramatic sunrise view across a vast sea of sand. The colour changes as the sun creeps up above the horizon and the views are nothing short of incredible, providing a spectacular setting for your brunch. The dunes themselves are some of the highest in the world and home to much animal life. After, jump in the back of a pickup truck for a trip to Sossusvlei – the incredible salt and clay pan nearby. You'll have time to explore this mysterious desert oddity at your own pace. In the afternoon, drive to your bush camp in the heart of the Namib Desert.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included activities
Sossusvlei - 4WD Tour
Sesriem - Sunrise Sand Dune Visit
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Your camp tonight has flush toilets and showers.
DAY 7
Day 7 • Swakopmund
Continue to Swakopmund today. Surrounded by the massive dune fields of the Namib Desert on three sides and the Atlantic Ocean on the other, Swakopmund is an ideal place for outdoor activities. The township has an interesting German–Namibian atmosphere, which makes it a pleasant place to simply walk around and explore. You could also visit the Swakopmund Museum today – the largest privately run Museum in Namibia housing exhibitions on zoology, geology and technology.
Accommodation
Chalet (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Your accommodation here is a cosy desert bungalow. Each of these bungalows sleeps four people, and bathroom facilities will be shared. Wi-fi is available.
DAY 8
Day 8 • Swakopmund
With a free day today, it's worth checking out the Germanic architecture of the area and maybe taking the opportunity to do some souvenir shopping. If you're after a dose of history and culture, you can stop in at the lighthouse and visit the Swakopmund Museum. Active types and thrill-seekers might like to take advantage of the many outdoor activities on offer – this town is the adventure-sports capital of Namibia.
Accommodation
Chalet (1 night)
Meals
There are no meals included on this day.
Optional activities
Swakopmund - Swakopmund Museum - NAD45
Swakopmund – Living Desert Tour - USD60
Swakopmund – Township Tour - USD45
Special information
It's important to check with your leader if you are unsure about the safety of any of these activities, as some may not be recommended by Intrepid.
DAY 9
Day 9 • Swakopmund
With another free day in this beautiful seaside town, you might like to do some reading, relaxing and swimming. Alternatively, you can venture further afield – perhaps to the Okakambe Trails or the Camel Farm (both located in the same area, around 12 km east of town). A horse ride or camel ride is a great way to see the desert from a different perspective.
Accommodation
Chalet (1 night)
Meals
There are no meals included on this day.
Optional activities
Swakopmund - Swakopmund Museum - NAD45
DAY 10
Day 10 • Spitzkoppe
Travel to Spitzkoppe today. Experience the sight, sound and smell of thousands of olive-coloured seals on the shores of Cape Cross while travelling up the Atlantic Coast. Visit one of the most stunning areas of Namibia – the wild lands around the mountain of Spitzkoppe, also known as the Matterhorn of Namibia. Although you shouldn't try to climb to the top, there are some excellent hikes and guided walks throughout the area, which is rich in plant life. The Spitzkoppe is known for its stunning beauty and the thousands of ancient Bushmen rock art paintings that are still on view. Be sure to look out for the sunset from your bush camp this evening – the landscape is known to take on dazzling oranges and reds.
Accommodation
Camping (with basic facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included activities
Cape Cross Nature Reserve - Seal Colony View Point
Optional activities
Spitzkoppe - Ancient San Bushman Rock Art Guided Walk - ZAR50
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.
DAY 11
Day 11 • Etosha National Park
This morning, set off and travel to Etosha National Park, stopping at a market or shop and ATM if required. Etosha is among the world's best places to view wildlife. A wide range of southern Africa's animals roams freely here, including all the big carnivores and rare or endangered species, including black rhino, Hartmann's mountain zebra, black-faced impala, roan antelope and the tiny Damara dik-dik. Tonight, there’s an option to take an evening game drive (subject to availability) before spending the night at the Okaukuejo Camp. The camp overlooks a floodlit waterhole visited by many different species throughout the day and night.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Optional activities
Etosha National Park - Evening 4WD Safari - ZAR750
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 9 hours.
Your camp tonight has a swimming pool and wi-fi in the restaurant area. Accommodation upgrades are possible (subject to availability).
DAY 12
Day 12 • Etosha National Park
Enjoy a full-day game drive in Etosha National Park. Game viewing in the park is relatively easy due to the constructed waterholes and the large, sparsely vegetated pans. The bushland surrounding the pans is difficult to see through, but there are enough clearings, pans and waterholes to usually allow for some sightings. Namibia has protected its game reserves against poaching, which means significant numbers of elephants, antelope and other herbivores reside here. This evening you will spend the night at Namutoni Camp.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included activities
Etosha National Park - Overland Vehicle Safari
Special information
At tonight's accommodation, upgrades are available (subject to availability).
DAY 13
Day 13 • Grootfontein/San People
Leave Etosha behind and continue to your next camp, which is located 50 km outside Grootfontein. This will be your base for visiting the San people tomorrow. When you arrive at camp, stretch your legs, maybe go for a swim and kick back with your fellow travellers for a relaxed evening.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Dinner
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Your camp tonight has a swimming pool and wi-fi. Accommodation upgrades are possible (subject to availability).
DAY 14
Day 14 • Grootfontein
Embark on a 180-km round-trip to visit the San people today. You'll go out walking with some of the tribe, listening to their stories and songs. You'll soon discover that they communicate in a unique and fascinating Khoisan dialect, commonly known as a 'clicking' language. The San are the oldest ethnic group in Namibia, having inhabited southern Africa for an estimated 20,000 years. Around 30,000 of them live in Namibia, but only 2000 still follow a traditional way of life. The San have a deep understanding of nature and ecology, living in harmony with their environment.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included activities
Grootfontein - San Bushman Cultural Experience
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.
Your camp tonight has a swimming pool and wi-fi. Accommodation upgrades are possible (subject to availability).
DAY 15
Day 15 • Bagani
Head to Bagani today, where you’ll set up camp for the night. Bagani is a small, friendly town with plenty of nice spots to relax and soak up the ambience as you catch the sunset over the Okavango River. You may even spot grunting hippos coming out of the waters to graze! This area is the homestead of the local Mbukushu kings and their kingdom.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Dinner
Optional activities
Bagani - Sunset Cruise - USD25
Special information
Your camp tonight has flush toilets, showers, wi-fi and optional upgrades.
DAY 16
Day 16 • Okavango Delta
Drive across the border into Botswana and head south along the Okavango Panhandle (the narrowest part of the delta) to Sepopa. Here, you'll leave your vehicle behind as you journey by boat into the delta to your bush camp on an island away from civilisation. Punting along past birds and lily pads, you'll hear hippos occasionally interrupting the peaceful atmosphere with their charming grunts.
Accommodation
Camping (without facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included activities
Okavango Delta - Boat Safari
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours. Your boat ride will be approximately 4 hours.
At tonight’s bush camp, there’s no wi-fi or upgrades available.
DAY 17
Day 17 • Okavango Delta
After breakfast, head out for your mokoro experience. Each mokoro (small dugout canoe) takes two people and is poled along through the meandering waterways by a local tribesman. You’ll also take a short nature walk with your guide to discover the beautiful natural surroundings, gain some insight into the history of the local area and look out for different bird species and occasionally, even elephants. After your trip around the delta, return by boat to the relative civilisation of Sepopa Camp, featuring hot showers, a swimming pool and a small bar. Today, there is an option to take a scenic flight to have an aerial view of the Delta.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included activities
Okavango Delta - Mokoro Safari
Okavango Delta - Nature Walk
Special information
Wildlife sightings during the walk is not a guarantee.
Your camp tonight has a swimming pool and wi-fi.
DAY 18
Day 18 • Bagani
Leave the delta behind today and return to Bagani for the night. There will be time to take part in an optional boat trip when you arrive, or you can opt for a picturesque sunset cruise. Alternatively, relax and recharge at camp.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Optional activities
Bagani - Sunset Cruise - USD25
Special information
Your camp has flush toilets, showers and wi-fi. Accommodation upgrades are available (subject to availability).
We ask all Tuuur travellers to avoid fishing excursions as it is against our Responsible Travel policy.
DAY 19
Day 19 • Chobe National Park
Setting off from Bagani this morning, you’ll drive to the incredible Chobe National Park. Catch a window seat if you can and watch the rolling landscape pass you by or play some road trip games with your newfound friends. Enter Botswana at the Goma border, which is also the gateway to the park. When you arrive, take an optional cruise down the Chobe River – one of the best ways to witness some of the park's many animals, like hippos, elephants and buffalo.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Dinner
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 8 hours.
Your camp is located outside of Chobe National Park and has flush toilets, showers, wi-fi and ATM. Accommodation upgrades are available (subject to availability).
DAY 20
Day 20 • Chobe National Park
Enjoy an early-morning game drive this morning. Adventuring through the park, you’ll have the opportunity to get up close to the wildlife and with luck, you’ll spot lions, buffalo and exotic birds. Botswana's first national park is famous for its high concentration of elephants, so keep an eye out for herds walking by, too. They can also often be seen swimming in the Chobe River! The river also attracts buffalo, hippos and crocodiles who like to sun themselves by the water's edge. In the afternoon, perhaps take an optional boat cruise to gain a different view of these amazing animals or take another optional afternoon game drive into the national park.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included activities
Chobe National Park - Dawn 4WD Safari
Optional activities
Chobe National Park - Boat Cruise - BWP440
Chobe National Park - 4WD Safari - BWP580
DAY 21
Day 21 • Victoria Falls
Travel on to Victoria Falls, crossing the border into Zimbabwe in time to have lunch on the banks of the Zambezi. Though a visit to Victoria Falls' is optional, it is highly recommended. The staggering curtain of water is about 1.6 km and cascades 108 m into a narrow gorge below. In the wet season, the spray created can rise to an incredible 400 m and the falls become an impressive raging torrent. In the dry season, the view of the falls is unobstructed by mist and you can see little islets in the river below. Gather your travel crew together tonight for dinner, celebrating the southern Africa adventure and memories you’ve shared.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Optional activities
Victoria Falls - Victoria Falls Entrance Fee - USD58
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Your camp tonight has wi-fi, flush toilets, showers and optional upgrades available.
Victoria Falls entrance is not included, as it is mandatory for tour groups to have a local guide. Your leader will take you to an activity centre where activities will be on offer. We have not risk assessed all activities and only those listed in Optional Activities are recommended. It is against Tuuur policy for leaders to help book any activities that have not been assessed or do not adhere to our Responsible Travel policy. This includes organising transport to and from these activities.
You may notice businesses offering an 'Walk with the Lions' experience. We ask all Tuuur travellers to avoid this activity as it is against our Responsible Travel policy. While wildlife viewing is part of many itineraries, we strive to view animals in their natural habitats and to do so with the greatest level of respect. This industry directly contributes to the captive breeding and canned hunting of lions.
DAY 22
Day 22 • Victoria Falls
Spend the day soaking in the sights and sounds of Victoria Falls. There’s plenty to explore in and around town, whether you want to see the falls on foot, get out on the water, take to the skies or check out the local breweries, restaurants and cafes. Be sure to ask your leader for their tips and recommendations. Then, at 4 pm, you’ll meet the new travellers joining the group for the next part of your trip at a second welcome meeting. Afterwards, why not grab dinner together and get to know your new group?
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Special information
As this trip is a combination of shorter itineraries, the travellers in your group and your group leader are likely to change today.
If you are interested in the optional helicopter flight (12 minutes or 25 minutes), Tuuur only endorses Zambezi Helicopter Company (CAA Zimbabwe).
DAY 23
Day 23 • Victoria Falls
Today is completely free for you to choose your own adventure! Perhaps take an optional helicopter flight for a breathtaking view of the falls from above, visit one of the local breweries for a taste of the region’s craft scene, or enjoy a sunset cruise along the Zambezi River. However you spend the day, make sure to rest up and get ready for tomorrow’s journey across the border into Zambia.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Optional activities
Victoria Falls - Rafting & River Boarding (Half Day) - USD218
Victoria Falls - Village & Township Tour - USD61
Victoria Falls - Canoe Trail & Wine Route - USD55
Victoria Falls - Canoe Trail (Full Day) - USD185
Victoria Falls - Helicopter Flight of the Angels (12 mins - Excludes US$29 fuel surcharge and NP fees) - USD173
Victoria Falls - Helicopter Flight (25 mins - Excludes USD39 fuel surcharge and NP fees) - USD328
DAY 24
Day 24 • Lower Zambezi National Park
After breakfast, you’ll travel to Lower Zambezi National Park – located on the Zimbabwean border and famous for its spectacular Zambezi River valley and abundant wildlife, including fish eagles, buffalo, and elephants. Today is a bit of a long travel day, so it’s the perfect chance to get stuck into a good book or catch up on your favourite podcasts. After crossing the border from Zimbabwe into Zambia, continue to your campsite in the wildlife-rich Chiawa area, surrounded by native bush with animals roaming freely through the camp.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 11 hours.
Tonight’s camp has shared facilities, bar, pool, and wi-fi. Accommodation upgrades are possible (subject to availability).
DAY 25
Day 25 • Lower Zambezi National Park
Begin your wildlife adventure with a scenic boat cruise to Lower Zambezi National Park. As you glide past lush riverbanks, keep watch for wildlife before arriving at the park entrance. Then set off on a full-day safari through one of Zambia’s best wildlife viewing areas – set along a wide floodplain of the Zambezi River, dotted with acacias and towering trees, and framed by a dramatic slope to the north, covered in thick miombo woodland. Across the river you'll see Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools National Park - the two parks forming one of Africa’s most amazing wilderness areas. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, leopards, lions, and birds before returning by boat back to camp.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included activities
Lower Zambezi National Park - Full Day Safari
Lower Zambezi - Scenic Boat Cruise
Special information
Tonight’s camp has shared facilities, bar, pool, and wi-fi. Accommodation upgrades are possible (subject to availability).
DAY 26
Day 26 • Lusaka
This morning, travel to Lusaka.Your campsite on a private farm surrounded by the natural bushland, just outside of the city. When you arrive, set up camp, settle in, and spend some time exploring the camp, stretching your legs as you try to spot impala, giraffes, or even zebras wandering through!
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Tonight’s camp has shared facilities, a swimming pool and wi-fi for a token. Accommodation upgrades are possible (subject to availability).
DAY 27
Day 27 • Petauke
Wake up early and begin your journey to Petauke – a town in the Eastern Province of Zambia. Along the way, watch the ever-changing scenery shift from open plains to rural villages and bustling roadside markets, offering a glimpse into daily Zambian life. Tonight, enjoy a well-earned rest at your camp, under the African night sky.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 9 hours.
Tonight’s camp has shared facilities, and wi-fi. Accommodation upgrades are possible (subject to availability).
DAY 28
Day 28 • South Luangwa National Park
After breakfast, travel to a workshop in South Luangwa where local craftswomen transform snare wire, recovered from poaching traps, into jewellery inspired by the African bush. When you arrive, the women will show you around their purpose-built workshop, then try your hand at coiling or hammering the wire yourself! After, continue your journey through the heartland to South Luangwa National Park.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included activities
South Luangwa - Anti-Poaching Jewelery Project
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.
Your camp tonight has optional accommodation upgrades (subject to availability).
DAY 29
Day 29 • South Luangwa National Park
After breakfast, head out on a morning 4WD safari to try and spot iconic African wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, leopards, Thornicroft’s giraffes and lions with a local guide. Learn about the region’s diverse landscapes and animals. Spend the afternoon relaxing, or maybe head out on an optional evening safari to try to spot any animals that you may have missed this morning.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included activities
South Luangwa National Park - Morning 4WD Safari
Optional activities
South Luangwa National Park - Evening 4WD Safari - USD85
Special information
Your camp tonight has optional accommodation upgrades (subject to availability).
DAY 30
Day 30 • Chipata
Head out on another morning 4WD safari for a second chance to spot South Luangwa’s remarkable wildlife. After, you’ll make tracks to your next camp near Chipata for the night.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included activities
South Luangwa National Park - Morning 4WD Safari
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Tonight’s camp has shared facilities and wi-fi. Accommodation upgrades are possible (subject to availability).
DAY 31
Day 31 • Lake Malawi
Cross the border into Malawi and continue straight to your camp on the shores of Lake Malawi. The country is dominated by its lake, which covers almost a fifth of the country and provides a livelihood for many local people. Fishermen, fish traders, and canoe and net makers all ply their trade on the water. Your campsite sits right on the shore so you can relax on the beach after todays drive.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 10 hours.
There are upgrades available at tonight’s campsite (subject to availability), but there is no wi-fi.
DAY 32
Day 32 • Lake Malawi
Enjoy free time today to soak up your idyllic surroundings. As well as chilling out on the lake’s sandy shores, make sure you take the opportunity to meet some local Malawians – easily some of the friendliest people in Africa! You can also hire canoes, bikes or pedalos (paddle boats) to enhance your time here.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Optional activities
Lake Malawi - Bike Hire - USD25
DAY 33
Day 33 • Chitimba
Drive to your camp in Chitimba, which lies along the coast of Lake Malawi and has lovely beaches, friendly locals and a laidback atmosphere. When you arrive, perhaps take a stroll and acquaint yourself with this different part of the lake. Enjoy the scenery of banana palms, papaya trees and the Livingstonia and Nyika mountains looming nearby.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Dinner
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Tonight’s camp has shared facilities and wi-fi. Accommodation upgrades are possible (subject to availability).
DAY 34
Day 34 • Tukuyu
Today you'll cross the border into Tanzania and travel through its southern highlands as you make your way to Tukuyu. Enjoy a guided visit to a local tea farm, hosted by the farm owner. You’ll be taken through each step of tea cultivation – from planting and nurturing the bushes to harvesting the leaves. Learn about the seasonal rhythms of the farm, the processing stages that shape the final product, and the vital role tea farming plays in the local community and regional economy. Gain firsthand insight into daily life on a working tea farm and hear directly from a local producer about the industry and its challenges.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Included activities
Tukuyu - Tea Farm Visit
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Tonight’s camp has shared facilities and wi-fi. Accommodation upgrades are possible (subject to availability).
DAY 35
Day 35 • Iringa
Today you'll head towards Iringa and set up camp on the grounds of a farmhouse situated on the outskirts of this pleasant settlement. The area is filled with natural bush, which makes it a bird watchers paradise. If it's a clear night, make the most of this rural setting by stargazing before you retire for the night.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.
Tonight’s camp has shared facilities, and wi-fi. Accommodation upgrades are possible (subject to availability).
DAY 36
Day 36 • Mikumi National Park
Today you’ll drive to Mikumi National Park. Situated at the foot of the thickly wooded Uluguru Mountains, Mikumi is Tanzania’s fourth‑largest national park. On arrival, join an expert guide for a 4WD safari, where you’re likely to see buffalo, wildebeest, zebra, giraffe and elephants.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included activities
Mikumi National Park - 4WD Safari
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Tonight’s camp has shared facilities, bar, swimming pool and wi-fi. Accommodation upgrades are possible (subject to availability).
DAY 37
Day 37 • Dar es Salaam (South Beach)
Sit back, relax and enjoy the scenic drive to Kipepo Beach, located on the white sandy beaches on the south coast of Dar es Salaam. Once you arrive, set up camp and take some time to unwind – maybe enjoy a stroll along the shore. Your camp for the night is set on the grounds of a hotel right next to the beach, offering the perfect opportunity to unwind and take a refreshing dip in the Indian Ocean.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Dinner
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.
Your camp tonight has optional accommodation upgrades (subject to availability) and beach access.
DAY 38
Day 38 • Stone Town
Catch a ferry to Zanzibar, Africa’s famous ‘Spice Island.’ On arrival, enjoy some free time to discover Zanzibar City at your own pace. Lose yourself in the maze of cobblestone alleyways in Stone Town, admire the mix of Arabic, African and European architecture, or soak up the bustling atmosphere of Darajani Bazaar. This afternoon, you’ll have another welcome meeting at 2 pm to meet the new travellers joining you on the next leg of your adventure. After your meeting, perhaps head out together for dinner at a local restaurant – your leader will have the best recommendations.
Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Optional activities
Stone Town Tour - Dharajani Market, Joseph's Cathederal, Palace Museum, Forodhani Food Market - USD20
Zanzibar - Prison Island Tour - USD25
Special information
As this trip is a combination of shorter itineraries, the travellers in your group and your group leader are likely to change today.
The Zanzibar portion of your itinerary may have more passengers than the maximum group size of 22 as we have a crossover of trips starting and finishing in Zanzibar.
DAY 39
Day 39 • Zanzibar Northern Beaches
Once checked out of your Stone Town accommodation, consider booking in to an optional guided tour of the island's spice plantations, learning all about the history of this town's spice trade. You will have the opportunity to smell and taste various spices, such as cinnamon, vanilla and ginger, plus sample some teas made with these spices too. After lunch, head to the Northern Beaches, where white sands and sparkling blue seas await. This is the Indian Ocean at its best.
Accommodation
Bungalow (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Optional activities
Zanzibar - Spice Tour - USD25
Special information
If you choose not to book in on the optional Zanzibar spice tour this morning, you will be transported directly to the island's Northern Beaches.
DAY 40
Day 40 • Zanzibar Northern Beaches
Ease into the day with the sound of gentle waves and soft ocean breezes. With a full day free to enjoy Zanzibar’s coastline, you might choose to take a refreshing swim, stretch out on the beach beneath the palms, or savour the flavours of the island with a seafood dinner by the water. However you spend it, today is all about slowing down and letting the rhythm of island life take over.
Accommodation
Bungalow (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
DAY 41
Day 41 • Stone Town
After checking out of your accommodation this morning, you will make your way back to Stone Town, arriving at a centrally-located hotel around 11 am. With no activities planned for today, you are free to leave at any time. That doesn't mean your adventure has to come to an end! If you wish to stay on in Zanzibar, either at the Northern Beaches beach resort or in Stone Town, we'll be happy to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability).
Meals
Breakfast
Special information
If you’re flying out today, the most convenient option is to depart from Zanzibar’s Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ). If your flight departs from Dar es Salaam, ferries to the mainland depart at 7.30 am, 9.30 am, 12.30 pm and 3.30 pm. Be sure to allow plenty of time to reach the airport, and speak with your leader earlier in the trip for advice or assistance with arrangements.

Inclusions

Transport

Overland Vehicle, 4WD Safari Vehicle, Mokoro, Ferry, Minibus

Accommodation

Camping (with facilities) (31 nights), Camping (with basic facilities) (1 night), Camping (without facilities) (1 night), Cabin (3 nights), Hotel (2 night), Bunglow (2 night)

Dates and availability

Starting

Ending

Remaining

Prices From

Sunday Oct 18, 2026

Friday Nov 27, 2026

Trip size max: 22 - Sold Out

Sunday Nov 01, 2026

Friday Dec 11, 2026

Trip size max: 22 - 19 spaces left

£4,323

Sunday Nov 15, 2026

Friday Dec 25, 2026

Trip size max: 22 - 16 spaces left

£4,653£3,722

Sunday Dec 06, 2026

Friday Jan 15, 2027

Trip size max: 22 - 8 spaces left

£4,972£4,475

Sunday Dec 27, 2026

Friday Feb 05, 2027

Trip size max: 22 - 11 spaces left

£4,719

Sunday Jan 03, 2027

Friday Feb 12, 2027

Trip size max: 22 - 22 spaces left

£4,708

Sunday Jan 10, 2027

Friday Feb 19, 2027

Trip size max: 22 - 14 spaces left

£4,763

Sunday Jan 24, 2027

Friday Mar 05, 2027

Trip size max: 22 - 15 spaces left

£4,763

Sunday Jan 31, 2027

Friday Mar 12, 2027

Trip size max: 22 - 21 spaces left

£4,708

Sunday Feb 14, 2027

Friday Mar 26, 2027

Trip size max: 22 - 22 spaces left

£4,708

Sunday Mar 28, 2027

Friday May 07, 2027

Trip size max: 22 - 11 spaces left

£4,763

Sunday Apr 11, 2027

Friday May 21, 2027

Trip size max: 22 - 20 spaces left

£4,763

Sunday Apr 25, 2027

Friday Jun 04, 2027

Trip size max: 22 - 13 spaces left

£4,763

Sunday May 23, 2027

Friday Jul 02, 2027

Trip size max: 22 - Sold Out

Sunday Jun 06, 2027

Friday Jul 16, 2027

Trip size max: 22 - 16 spaces left

£4,763

Important notes

1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip and is subject to availability. The single supplement excludes Day 7-9 in Swakopmund and Day 16-17 in the Okavango Delta, where you will be in shared accommodation. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.

2. This trip is a combination of UXOF, YXON and YXOS - three of our most popular itineraries. As such the make up of your group and your leader may change on Days 22 and 38.

3. The Zanzibar portion of your itinerary may have a few more passengers than the maximum group size of 22 as we have a crossover of trips starting and finishing in Zanzibar.

4. This trip begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm on Day 1 in Cape Town and concludes upon arrival in Stone Town around 12 pm on Day 41. Please avoid booking any departing flights before 2 pm on the final day.

Reviews (16)

5 stars

4 stars

2 stars

Carina

Oct 02, 2026

I spent nearly 50 unforgettable days overlanding from Cape Town to Nairobi. Our amazing crew, Ace, Wilson and Dan, kept us safe, well-fed and entertained. We saw incredible wildlife, explored countless national parks, met locals and fell in love with every country along the way

Isabel

Mar 17, 2026

An amazing trip from Cape Town to Zanzibar! Would definitely recommend to anyone wanting to explore Africa. The food was exceptional, healthy hearty food prepared with love. Our group leader was very knowledgeable, and we learnt a lot about culture and geology along the way. The landscapes were stunning. It really is the trip of a lifetime! Thank you Intrepid.

Kristoffer

Jan 17, 2026

Africa is one of the most challenging travel destinations in the world but MJ and the Intrepid crew always met the challenges with ease and the local knowledge that you'd hope for. There were long driving days, but that's expected. Memories for a lifetime.

Jenny

Aug 22, 2025

Challenging, exciting, adventure and new skills. Improved physical and mental well-being. Thankyou Zac, Nicholas and Kim for making this the best trip of my life. You are all stars that shine brightly in Africa

Sandrine

Dec 22, 2024

After a 8570 Kms trip in 42 days, crossing 7 countries and 1 island, 17 Stamps in my passport, admiring some beautiful landscape, observing wildlife in their natural environment, taking a thousand pictures, meeting some amazing people, it’s time to say goodbye to Africa and go back home. It’s been amazing and unforgettable and I can’t wait to see more of this continent. Assante sana to MJ (Homeless), Francis, Rasta and Griffin our crew for their professionalism. It’s been a fun experience and nothing would have been the same without them.

Luke

Oct 22, 2024

Our journey from Victoria Falls to Zanzibar was amazing! Erellah, our fantastic tour leader, ensured everything went smoothly. Wilson's delicious meals were a highlight, and John was an excellent driver. We saw incredible wildlife and beautiful destinations. Highly recommend this trip for an unforgettable African adventure!

Hannah

Sep 15, 2023

This was an amazing trip and I would highly recommend it. There are some very early mornings and long driving days but the sights and animals you see are worth it.

Gregory

Aug 16, 2023

Fantastic tour and I had a great time. My advice for anyone unsure about this is do it. I'm not big on camping but I had a great time

Mona

Aug 10, 2023

The Intrepid group from Cape Town to Zanzibar was the best experience I’ve ever had in a group tour!! The guide, chef and driver made sure we had a safe, enjoyable and rich experience as we travelled through Africa! I highly recommend this tour if you are looking for adventure and a rich cultural experience in a safe and responsible way!

Andrea

Aug 03, 2023

An epic overlanding trip through southern Africa with stunning scenery, numerous game drives, and many opportunities to experience local culture. A must-do trip!!

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