22 Day Nairobi to Victoria Falls Africa Overland Tour (Lodge)
Quick Itinerary Overview
Explore top African wildlife parks, stunning landscapes, and tropical beaches on this affordable Adventure In The Wild Safaris tour. An exciting lodge safari to Tanzania, Zanzibar Islands, Malawi, and Zambia, from the Kenyan capital of Nairobi to Victoria Falls in Zambia.
Highlights of this southbound budget Adventure In The Wild Safaris tour include:
- 4×4 wildlife safari in the game-rich Ngorongoro Crater & Serengeti National Park
- Zanzibar Islands – Nungwi, tropical beaches, spice tour, and Stone Town
- Lake Malawi beaches, fishing villages & optional activities
- South Luangwa National Park & Kafue River safari in Zambia
- Travel to the mighty Victoria Falls in Livingstone, Zambia
Itinerary for this Tour
Day 1: Nairobi to Arusha – Tanzania
This exhilarating Adventure In The Wild Safaris tour departs from Nairobi, Kenya, traveling south across rural Kenya and crossing the border into Tanzania. Along the way, you may catch a glimpse of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain. Our destination is the town of Arusha, at the base of Mount Meru. Arusha is known as the gateway for safaris to Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater.
This evening, enjoy a briefing from our local guides on the wildlife adventures ahead. Our Ngorongoro & Serengeti safari will be conducted in smaller vehicles, so please pack an overnight bag for the trip.
- Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Arusha to Serengeti National Park – Tanzania
On this day, we head toward Serengeti National Park. Our stay in the Seronera region, known for its abundant wildlife, particularly big cats like lions, leopards, and cheetahs, promises an unforgettable experience. We will enjoy our first game drive en route to a private tented camp for the night.
- Included Activity: Afternoon Safari Drive
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Serengeti National Park (Seronera) – Tanzania
Start your day early with a thrilling 4×4 game drive in the legendary Serengeti National Park. Seronera is famous for its predator sightings, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs. After a full day of wildlife exploration, we travel to the nearby village of Karatu for an overnight stay.
- Included Activity: Full Day Game Drive
- Optional Activity: Hot Air Balloon Safari (prebooking essential)
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater & Karatu – Tanzania
Today, we descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera, home to an array of wildlife, including lions, elephants, and rhinos. The area is rich in history, with Olduvai Gorge providing evidence of early human existence.
- Included Activities: Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Karatu to Arusha – Tanzania
On Day 5, we drive back to Arusha, passing through the scenic Great Rift Valley and stopping at the vibrant market of Mto wa Mbu. We relax for the night in a comfortable lodge in Arusha, reflecting on our Serengeti and Ngorongoro adventures.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6: Arusha to Bagamoyo – Tanzania
Our journey takes us from the cool highlands of Tanzania to the Indian Ocean coastline. We head to Bagamoyo, a town rich in history, once a major port for ivory and slaves. Bagamoyo also reflects German colonial, Swahili, Arabic, and Christian missionary influences. Tonight, we prepare for our upcoming trip to Zanzibar.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7 & 8: Beach Resort, Zanzibar Island – Tanzania
We travel by ferry from Dar es Salaam to Stone Town and then to a beach resort on Zanzibar Island. Enjoy two full days of beach relaxation, water sports, and activities, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, dhow sailing, or exploring the island’s tropical paradise.
- Included Activity: Zanzibar Island Trip (including ferry)
- Optional Activities: Dhow Sailing Trips, Scuba Diving, Snorkelling, Turtle Sanctuary Visits, Village Tours, and more.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner x2
Day 9: Stone Town, Zanzibar Island – Tanzania
We return to Stone Town to explore the spice plantations of Kidichi and Kizambani. A guided walking tour gives you a taste of Zanzibar’s exotic spices. Later, we explore Stone Town, visiting its bustling markets, the Anglican Cathedral, and the Palace Museum.
- Included Activity: Spice Tour, Stone Town Walking Tour
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 10: Stone Town to Dar es Salaam – Tanzania
After returning to Dar es Salaam, you can explore the city’s vibrant markets and museums, or visit the Kivukoni Fish Market for a sensory overload.
- Included Activity: Zanzibar Trip (return ferry)
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 11 & 12: Dar es Salaam to Mikumi National Park – Tanzania
We head inland to Mikumi National Park, one of Tanzania’s largest game parks. Here, you can enjoy game drives or cultural tours, exploring the park’s abundant wildlife, including lions, elephants, and zebras.
- Optional Activity: Mikumi Safari Drive, Cultural Tours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 13: Mikumi National Park to Iringa – Tanzania
Today we journey to Iringa, a historic town perched on a cliff overlooking the Ruaha River Valley, known for its German colonial buildings and local markets.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 14: Iringa to Mbeya – Tanzania
We continue through southern Tanzania, visiting a coffee plantation in Mbeya, one of Tanzania’s major coffee-growing regions, where we sample fresh coffee.
- Included Activity: Coffee Plantation Visit
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 15: Mbeya to Northern Lake Malawi – Malawi
Crossing into Malawi, we head to the beautiful Lake Malawi, known for its stunning vistas and local fishing villages. Tonight, we stay at a lakeside lodge in Chitimba, where you can explore the village and enjoy scenic walks.
- Included Activity: Local Village Walk
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 16 & 17: Lake Malawi – Malawi
We spend two nights at a lodge on the shores of Lake Malawi, offering a perfect opportunity for swimming, kayaking, or enjoying a peaceful sunset walk along the beach. Optional activities include hiking, snorkelling, or visiting local fishing villages.
- Optional Activities: Snorkelling, Horse Riding, Hiking, Volunteering, Kayaking
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (x2)
Day 18: Lake Malawi to Lusaka – Zambia
We travel through Malawi’s countryside to Lusaka, the capital of Zambia. Here, you can visit local markets, explore Zambia’s rich cultural heritage, and interact with friendly locals.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 19: Lusaka to South Luangwa National Park – Zambia
Today, we journey through Zambia’s scenic hills and forests to the famous South Luangwa National Park, one of Africa’s top wildlife destinations, known for its walking safaris and high concentration of elephants, lions, and leopards.
- Included Activity: South Luangwa Safari Drive
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 20: South Luangwa National Park to Lower Zambezi – Zambia
We move from the stunning South Luangwa to the Zambezi River Valley, famous for its vast river system, which forms the backbone of Lower Zambezi National Park, a beautiful location for game viewing.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 21: Lower Zambezi to Victoria Falls – Zambia
We continue through the mighty Zambezi River to the world-renowned Victoria Falls. Watch in awe as the Victoria Falls thunder over the gorge with a spectacular display of mist and spray. We enjoy a guided tour of the falls.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 22: Victoria Falls to Livingstone – Zambia
On the final day of our tour, you can enjoy an optional helicopter ride over the falls, take a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, or explore the local market. We conclude our journey in Livingstone, Zambia, where you can either continue exploring the falls or head back to your hotel for a well-earned rest. This marks the end of your incredible adventure through Africa, filled with unforgettable memories of safaris, scenic landscapes, and cultural experiences.
- Meals: Breakfast
Tour Inclusions
- All accommodation, meals, and transport as specified
- All park entrance fees and game drives in national parks
- Experienced guide for the entire tour
- Boat safaris and walking tours in select locations
- Ferry transfer to Zanzibar
- Optional activities such as snorkeling, diving, and walking safaris
- Visit to local villages, markets, and historical sites
Exclusions
- International flights to and from the tour start and end points
- Optional activities not included in the itinerary
- Travel insurance
- Visa fees (if applicable)
- Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs, tips, additional meals)
Additional Information
Departure and Arrival: The tour begins in Nairobi, Kenya, and ends in Livingstone, Zambia. Transfers to/from the airport can be arranged on request.
Accommodation: Accommodation is in comfortable lodges, with a mix of tented camps and local guesthouses, offering a good balance between comfort and an authentic African experience.
Group Size: The tour is designed for small groups (6-16 participants), providing a more intimate and personalized experience.
Fitness Level: The tour involves moderate walking, game drives, and boat rides. A good level of fitness is required, especially for optional activities such as hiking or walking safaris.
What to Bring
- Comfortable clothes for safaris and sightseeing
- Lightweight hiking shoes and sandals
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Insect repellent (especially for Lake Malawi and Victoria Falls)
- Personal items (camera, toiletries, etc.)
- A small backpack for day trips
- Swimming gear (for Zanzibar and Lake Malawi)
Tour FAQs
Do I need a visa for this tour?
Visas are required for some nationalities. It is your responsibility to check visa requirements for Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, and Zambia before booking the tour. We can provide assistance with the visa process if needed.
What is the best time to do this tour?
The best time to take this tour is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. This is when wildlife is easier to spot as animals gather around water sources. However, the tour is enjoyable year-round, with each season offering unique experiences.
Can I book this tour as a private tour?
Yes, private tours can be arranged. Please contact us for pricing and availability for a private departure.
What about vaccinations and health precautions?
Vaccinations may be required or recommended for travel to some of the countries included in this tour. We recommend visiting a travel clinic at least 6-8 weeks before departure to ensure you are up to date on necessary vaccinations and malaria prevention.
What is the accommodation like on this tour?
Accommodation includes lodges, tented camps, and local guesthouses. We choose comfortable accommodations that provide a good balance of comfort and authentic African experiences. All accommodations offer clean rooms and basic amenities, with private bathrooms where possible.
Can I extend my stay after the tour?
Yes, we can assist with arranging extended stays or additional activities in Livingstone, Zambia, or other nearby destinations like Cape Town or Nairobi. Please let us know in advance if you would like to extend your trip.
Book Your Tour Today
For more information or to book your 22-Day Nairobi to Victoria Falls Overland Lodge Safari, please contact our team. We look forward to helping you experience the adventure of a lifetime!