22 Day East Africa Overland Tour: Nairobi to Victoria Falls
Quick Itinerary Overview:
Embark on an extraordinary three-week East Africa Overland Tour with Adventure In The Wild Safaris, exploring Tanzania, Zanzibar Island, Malawi, and Zambia.
On this scenic Nairobi to Victoria Falls Camping Safari, you will:
- Explore Tanzania’s game-rich Ngorongoro Crater on a 4×4 wildlife safari
- Embark on a 4×4 safari in Serengeti National Park of Tanzania, staying within the reserve
- Relax on the tropical Zanzibar Islands of Tanzania
- Discover traditional Tanzanian culture and spot wildlife in Mikumi National Park
- Enjoy the serene shores of Lake Malawi while immersing yourself in local culture
- Go game viewing in Zambia’s top safari destination, South Luangwa National Park
Experience the best of East Africa, from spectacular scenery to superb wildlife and unique cultures – all at a great price!
Itinerary for this Tour
Day 1: Nairobi to Arusha – Tanzania
The Adventure In The Wild Safaris begins with a drive south from Nairobi, crossing the border into Tanzania. En route to Arusha, you might catch a glimpse of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain. Arusha is situated at the base of Mount Meru, offering a cool climate and beautiful landscapes. This vibrant town is also the base for safaris to Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
We spend the night in a centrally located campsite in Arusha, where our guides brief us on the exciting wildlife adventures ahead. Pack an overnight bag for your upcoming adventure in the Ngorongoro and Serengeti regions.
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Arusha to Serengeti National Park – Tanzania
Today, we head to the Serengeti National Park in smaller safari vehicles. We’ll stay in the heart of the park in the Seronera region, renowned for its dense population of big cats. A game drive will introduce you to the park’s incredible wildlife.
The night will be spent at a private tented camp with spectacular views, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the bush.
Included Activity: Afternoon Safari Drive
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Serengeti National Park (Seronera) – Tanzania
After an early start, enjoy a full day of 4×4 game viewing in the Serengeti. This area is famous for exceptional predator sightings, especially the big cats, as well as elephants, rhinos, zebras, and wildebeest.
We overnight at a campsite in Karatu for the next two nights.
Included Activity: Full Day Game Drive
Optional Activity: Hot Air Balloon Safari (prebooking essential)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater & Karatu – Tanzania
We drive through the Serengeti towards the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world’s largest intact volcanic calderas. Here, you’ll experience a thrilling game drive in search of Africa’s iconic wildlife.
In the evening, we return to our campsite in Karatu.
Included Activities: Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Karatu to Arusha – Tanzania
On Day 5, we head back to Arusha, passing through the Great Rift Valley and stopping at Mto wa Mbu for a visit to the vibrant local market. Tonight, relax at our comfortable campsite in Arusha.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6: Arusha to Bagamoyo – Tanzania
Today, we travel from the highlands of Tanzania to the Indian Ocean coast, stopping at Bagamoyo. A historically significant town, Bagamoyo was once a major port for the ivory and slave trade and offers a fascinating insight into Tanzania’s colonial past.
Settle into the campsite for the night as we prepare for the next leg of our journey to Zanzibar.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7 & 8: Beach Resort, Zanzibar Island – Tanzania
On Day 7, we catch a ferry from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar Island, where you’ll relax at a beach resort. Enjoy a free day on Day 8 to explore the island, with options for water sports, scuba diving, snorkelling, or simply relaxing on the pristine beaches.
Included Activity: Zanzibar Island Trip (including ferry)
Optional Activities: Dhow Sailing Trips, Scuba Diving, Snorkelling, Turtle Sanctuary Visits, and more.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (x2)
Day 9: Stone Town, Zanzibar Island – Tanzania
Visit the spice plantations of Kidichi and Kizambani, followed by a walking tour of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover its rich history and vibrant culture before we return to our campsite for the night.
Included Activity: Spice Tour, Stone Town Walking Tour
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 10: Stone Town to Dar es Salaam – Tanzania
We leave Zanzibar behind and catch a ferry back to Dar es Salaam. After the ferry ride, you can explore Dar es Salaam at your leisure before spending the night at a comfortable hotel.
Included Activity: Zanzibar Trip (return ferry)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 11 & 12: Dar es Salaam to Mikumi National Park – Tanzania
Travel inland to Mikumi National Park, one of Tanzania’s largest game parks. You’ll stay at a comfortable safari camp and have the opportunity to take game drives or cultural tours.
Optional Activity: Mikumi Safari Drive, Cultural Tours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 13: Mikumi National Park to Iringa – Tanzania
We head to the historic town of Iringa, set on a cliff overlooking the Ruaha River Valley. The town offers fascinating German colonial architecture and an insightful market visit.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 14: Iringa to Mbeya – Tanzania
As we continue south, we visit a coffee plantation in the Mbeya Mountains, where you’ll learn how coffee is harvested and sample the local beans.
Included Activity: Coffee Plantation Visit
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 15: Mbeya to Northern Lake Malawi – Malawi
Cross the border into Malawi and drive south to Lake Malawi, also known as “the Lake of Stars.” Explore the local village and enjoy a relaxed evening at our lakeside campsite.
Included Activity: Local Village Walk
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 16 & 17: Lake Malawi – Malawi
Spend two days by the serene waters of Lake Malawi. Optional activities include kayaking, hiking, and bird watching, or you can simply relax by the lake.
Optional Activities: Snorkelling, kayaking, hiking, and more.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (x2)
Day 18: Lake Malawi to South Luangwa Park – Zambia
Enjoy a morning game drive in the Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve before crossing into Zambia and continuing to South Luangwa National Park.
Included Activity: Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve Safari
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 19: South Luangwa National Park – Zambia
Experience a thrilling day of game viewing in South Luangwa, known for its walking safaris and abundant wildlife. You can join a morning game drive and opt for an evening game drive to spot nocturnal animals.
Included Activity: South Luangwa Game Drive
Optional Activity: Walking Safari
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 20: South Luangwa to Lusaka – Zambia
On Day 20, we drive to Lusaka, Zambia’s bustling capital. In Lusaka, take time to explore local shops and markets.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 21: Lusaka to Livingstone – Zambia
We journey south to Livingstone, Zambia’s gateway to the Victoria Falls. Prepare for the awe-inspiring sight of the Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Included Activity: Victoria Falls Visit
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 22: Livingstone and Departure – Zambia
On the final day, you can opt for a scenic helicopter ride over the falls or enjoy various activities in the area before concluding your tour.
Meals: Breakfast
Tour Summary: This 22-day East Africa Overland Tour combines unforgettable wildlife safaris with time for relaxation on the coast of Zanzibar, cultural explorations, and the incredible Victoria Falls. Enjoy diverse landscapes, varied wildlife, and vibrant cultures across Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, and beyond!
Tour Inclusions:
- All camping accommodation
- Transportation in a custom-built overland truck
- Experienced English-speaking guide and driver
- All national park fees and entrance fees
- Meals as specified in the itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
- Exciting game drives in Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Mikumi, South Luangwa, and more
- Camping and picnic meals at scenic spots
- Group camping equipment (excluding sleeping bags, pillows, and mattresses)
Tour Exclusions:
- International flights and travel insurance
- Personal items (e.g., toiletries, snacks, and souvenirs)
- Optional activities (e.g., hot air balloon ride, scuba diving, Victoria Falls activities)
- Visa fees and border crossing charges
- Drinks and beverages not included in meals
- Tips for your guide and driver (recommended)
Tour Price:
The tour price includes all aspects of the tour, from the transportation, national park fees, and camp accommodation, to meals and local activities. Prices can vary depending on the season and booking options. Please contact us for an updated quote and availability for your preferred travel dates.
Booking and Preparation:
Before embarking on this adventure, be sure to review your packing list, which will include essentials for a camping safari. Keep in mind that while tents and bedding are provided, you will need to bring your own sleeping bag and pillow. Our team will send you a detailed pre-departure information pack, which includes visa information, a suggested packing list, and all the necessary details for border crossings and local health requirements.
Important Notes:
- Visas: Most travelers will need visas to visit Tanzania, Malawi, and Zambia. Please ensure you have the necessary visas for all countries you’ll visit.
- Health: We recommend a visit to your doctor prior to the trip to ensure you are up-to-date with vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis, especially for those traveling to tropical regions.
- Weather: The weather will vary depending on the region. Expect warm temperatures in most places, with cooler evenings in the highlands. Be prepared for rain, especially in the rainy season (March to May).
- Physical Fitness: While this tour is not overly strenuous, it does require a reasonable level of fitness for activities such as hiking, game drives, and long travel days. Be prepared to spend a lot of time on the road.
Why Choose Adventure In The Wild Safaris?
Adventure In The Wild Safaris offers travelers an immersive and authentic experience in East Africa. Our expert guides provide insightful commentary, while our eco-friendly camping setups ensure a minimal environmental impact. With decades of experience, we take pride in our small group sizes and personal service, ensuring that each traveler enjoys a unique, tailored experience.
Our overland tours are designed for adventurous souls who seek to explore the wild beauty of Africa in an affordable and comfortable way. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned safari enthusiast, this 22-day East Africa Overland Tour will exceed your expectations.
Book your East Africa adventure today and get ready for an unforgettable journey across Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe!