42-Day Cape Town to Nairobi Overland Camping Safari
Embark on the ultimate Africa Overland Camping Safari with Adventure In The Wild Safaris. This 42-day camping expedition stretches from Cape Town, South Africa to Nairobi, Kenya, offering an immersive and affordable journey through Africa’s most iconic landscapes and wildlife havens.
Quick Overview
This Africa Overland Camping Safari highlights the best of Namibia, Botswana, Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania, Zanzibar Island, and Kenya. You’ll explore natural wonders like Fish River Canyon and the Namib Desert, encounter wildlife in Etosha, Chobe, South Luangwa, and Serengeti National Parks, and relax on the shores of Lake Malawi and Zanzibar Island. This is an epic cross-continental journey packed with cultural insights, diverse ecosystems, and thrilling safari experiences.
Day 1: Cape Town to Citrusdal – South Africa
Depart from Cape Town and travel through the Western Cape to the scenic Cederberg Mountains. Take in iconic views of Table Mountain and spend your first night camping in the Olifants River Valley.
- Included Highlight: Traditional Dinner
- Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Namaqualand & Orange River – Namibia
Travel north through the wildflower region of Namaqualand to the Gariep (Orange) River, crossing into Namibia. Camp along the riverside and enjoy socializing over dinner.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Orange River to Fish River Canyon – Namibia
Optional morning canoe trip, then drive to the dramatic Fish River Canyon. After exploring the canyon rim, continue to Keetmanshoop for the night.
- Included Activity: Fish River Canyon Visit
- Optional Activity: Canoe Trip
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Quiver Tree Forest & Giants Playground – Namibia
Visit Namibia’s Quiver Tree Forest and Giants Playground, then continue to the Namib Desert. Enjoy desert scenery at your lodge with a pool and bar.
- Included Activity: Quiver Tree Forest & Giants Playground
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Namib Desert – Namibia
A day to relax in the Namib Desert with optional self-guided walks from camp.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6: Sossusvlei Dunes – Namibia
Visit the Namib-Naukluft National Park and climb iconic Dune 45. Explore the famous Sossusvlei and Deadvlei with a 4×4 transfer.
- Included Activities: Dune 45 Hike, Sossusvlei & Deadvlei 4×4 Tour
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7: Namib Desert to Swakopmund – Namibia
Enjoy a desert walk with a local guide before heading to the adventure capital, Swakopmund. Pause for photos at the Tropic of Capricorn.
- Included Activities: Guided Desert Walk, Tropic of Capricorn Photo Stop, Restaurant Dinner
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 8: Swakopmund – Namibia
Free day to explore Swakopmund or try thrilling activities like quad biking, sandboarding, skydiving, or a dolphin cruise.
- Optional Activities: Adventure sports & boat cruises
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 9: Swakopmund to Brandberg – Namibia
Travel along the Skeleton Coast to the Lichen Fields and Wlotskabaken before heading inland to Brandberg Mountains. Enjoy a guided hike and explore ancient rock art.
- Included Activities: Wlotskabaken, Lichen Fields Tour, Brandberg Rock Art Hike
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 10: Brandberg to Etosha National Park – Namibia
Head to the iconic Etosha National Park. Begin your safari with an afternoon game drive and set up camp inside the park.
- Included Activity: Afternoon Game Drive
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Days 11 & 12: Etosha National Park – Namibia
Spend two full days exploring Etosha on game drives in the safari truck. Wildlife includes elephants, lions, giraffes, cheetahs, leopards, and a vast array of birdlife. Enjoy evenings at floodlit waterholes inside the park camps.
- Included Activities: Game Drives in Safari Truck
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 13: Etosha to Divundu – Namibia
Depart Etosha for the lush banks of the Kavango River near Divundu. Enjoy your riverside campsite after a day’s drive.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 14: Divundu to Maun – Botswana
Begin the day with a boat cruise on the Kavango River, spotting hippos and crocodiles. Cross into Botswana and arrive in Maun, the gateway to the Okavango Delta. Optional scenic flights over the Delta are available.
- Optional Activity: Okavango Delta Scenic Flight (Weather Permitting)
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 15: Maun to Khwai River Conservation Area, Okavango Delta – Botswana
Early risers can opt for a scenic flight over the Okavango Delta (weather and time permitting) before we are collected in 4×4 safari vehicles for our journey into the wild Okavango Delta of Botswana. The Kavango River, with no outlet to the sea, irrigates over 15,000 square kilometers of land, creating the world’s largest inland delta. We head to the Khwai River Conservation Area on the eastern side of the Delta and settle into our comfortable tented camp for the next two nights.
After lunch, we venture to a nearby mokoro station where local guides paddle us through the tranquil waterways of the Delta in traditional boats. You’ll stop on one of the islands for a nature walk, and your guide will provide fascinating insights into life in the Okavango Delta. The day concludes with a beautiful sunset on the paddle back to base.
- Included Activities: Sunset Mokoro Trip
- Optional Activity: Scenic Okavango Delta Flight
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 16: Moremi Game Reserve – Botswana
On Day 16 of this epic Adventure In The Wild Safaris, we wake early to explore the Moremi Game Reserve, located at the heart of the Okavango Delta. The reserve stretches across several thousand square kilometers and is home to stunning floodplains, lagoons, savannahs, and forests. This diverse landscape supports a wide variety of wildlife, including large herbivores and predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs. Get ready for an action-packed day of game viewing.
- Included Activity: Full Day Game Drive
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 17: Khwai to Nata – Botswana
We leave the Khwai River floodplain behind and embark on our return journey to Maun. From there, we head to the Makgadigadi Pans, remnants of an ancient lake. Our overnight stop is at the palm-fringed Nata Pan, which attracts numerous birds during the rainy season. In the afternoon, we’ll take a drive to explore the pan and see what birdlife we can spot.
- Included Activity: Afternoon Pans Drive
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 18: Nata to Kasane & Chobe National Park – Botswana
On Day 18, we continue through the Kalahari Desert towards Kasane, a town on the Chobe River near the borders of four countries. We stay at a riverside campsite with amenities like a swimming pool and bar. After lunch and a rest, we head out for a boat-based game viewing experience in Chobe National Park. From the boat, you’ll get close-up views of wildlife such as hippos, elephants, buffalos, and crocodiles, offering excellent photographic opportunities.
- Included Activity: Chobe River Boat Cruise
- Optional Activity: Chobe Game Drive
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 19: Kasane to Victoria Falls – Zimbabwe
We cross the border into Zimbabwe and drive to the breathtaking Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s most unforgettable natural wonders. The falls create a mist that is visible for miles and are known as “The Smoke That Thunders.” You’ll have the rest of the day and the following day to explore this magnificent site and enjoy various adventure activities, such as boat cruises, scenic flights, and more. You may also choose to relax at our campsite near the falls.
- Optional Activities: Victoria Falls National Park Entry, Boat Cruise, Scenic Flight, and more
- Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 20: Victoria Falls Village to Livingstone – Zambia
On Day 20, you’ll have the opportunity to take part in thrilling activities like white-water rafting on the Zambezi River or enjoy aerial views of the falls via helicopter or microlight. For those looking to explore, you can visit the historic town of Victoria Falls or stroll around the local markets. We then head to Livingstone, Zambia’s gateway to Victoria Falls.
- Included Activity: Transfer to Livingstone
- Optional Activities: Zambezi Sunset Cruise, Bungee Jump, Helicopter Flights, White Water Rafting
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 21: Livingstone to Lusaka – Zambia
We depart Livingstone and head into rural Zambia, passing through small villages and lush landscapes. Our campsite, just south of Lusaka, offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. You may encounter local wildlife such as impala, giraffe, and zebra.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 22: Lusaka to Petauke – Zambia
Our journey continues east towards Petauke, the main hub for safaris to the renowned South Luangwa National Park. Along the way, we visit the bustling Luangwa Market, sampling local fruits and crafts.
- Included Activity: Market Visit
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 23 & 24: South Luangwa National Park – Zambia
South Luangwa National Park is famous for its exceptional game viewing. We camp on the banks of the Luangwa River, where wildlife such as hippos and elephants are often spotted. You have the option to embark on a walking safari or an exciting sunset game drive in this wildlife-rich park.
- Included Activity: Mulberry Mongoose Visit, Sunset Game Drive
- Optional Activities: Walking Safari, Morning Game Drive
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner x2
Day 25: South Luangwa to Central Lake Malawi – Malawi
We cross into Malawi, heading through Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve before reaching the scenic shores of Lake Malawi. The campsite by Lake Malawi is perfect for swimming or snorkeling, with optional activities like kayaking and paddle skiing available.
- Optional Activities: Snorkeling, Horse Riding, Kayaking
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 26: Central Lake Malawi – Malawi
Day 26 is free for you to relax or explore the area. Enjoy optional activities like snorkeling or a motorboat trip, or take a walk through local fishing villages.
- Optional Activities: Snorkeling, Horse Riding, Kayaking, Paddle Skiing
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 27: Northern Lake Malawi – Malawi
We travel further north along Lake Malawi and visit a local village to experience the culture of rural Malawians. In the afternoon, we relax at a lakeside campsite and enjoy a peaceful sunset.
- Included Activity: Village Tour
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 28: Lake Malawi to Mbeya Region – Tanzania
We cross into Tanzania and head towards the scenic Mbeya Mountain range, where we will camp at a coffee plantation surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 29: Mbeya to Iringa – Tanzania
We visit a coffee plantation and sample local brews before traveling through rolling tea plantations in the Tanzanian Highlands to our campsite outside Iringa.
- Included Activity: Coffee Plantation Visit
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 30 & 31: Iringa to Mikumi National Park – Tanzania
We explore Mikumi National Park, a wildlife haven where lions, zebras, and elephants roam. You’ll have the opportunity for game drives or cultural tours in this incredible park.
- Optional Activity: Mikumi Safari Game Drive, Cultural Tours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 32: Mikumi to Dar es Salaam – Tanzania
Our epic African adventure journeys out of the cool highland region of Tanzania, heading east toward the balmy Indian Ocean coastline. We travel to the coastal city of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s economic hub, where we will overnight at a centrally located hotel. The rest of the day is yours to explore this vibrant city, sampling its restaurants and attractions.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 33: Dar es Salaam to Stone Town (Zanzibar Island) – Tanzania
We make an early start today to catch the ferry to exotic Zanzibar Island. Our first night in Zanzibar will be spent at a hotel in Stone Town, one of the oldest living Swahili cities in East Africa. From the moment you step onto the island, you’re greeted with a blend of cultures, rich history, and narrow winding streets waiting to be explored. Stone Town was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001 for its unique blend of Arab, Persian, Indian, and European architectural styles. The rest of the day is free to explore the sights, sounds, and smells of Stone Town. Don’t miss Forodhani Gardens, where the street food market comes alive after dark with fresh seafood and Zanzibari pizza.
- Included Activity: Zanzibar ferry
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 34 & 35: Stone Town to Zanzibar Island Beach Resort – Tanzania
Day 34 begins with a walking tour of Stone Town, where your guide will point out significant landmarks, including the birthplace of Freddy Mercury of the band Queen. We then head through lush landscapes toward the beach resort, where we will stay for the next two nights. A stop at a local village allows you to enjoy a spice tour at a plantation, learning about Zanzibar’s rich spice production. You’ll also have the chance to buy fresh spices. At the resort, enjoy sunbathing, watersports, and exciting ocean activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, and dhow sailing. You can also explore Zanzibar on guided tours or rent a scooter for a more independent adventure. Zanzibar is known for its idyllic beaches, so unwind in paradise with a swim in the Indian Ocean.
- Included Activities: Stone Town Walking Tour, Spice Tour
- Optional Activities: Dhow Sailing, Jozani Forest, Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Fishing, and more
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (x2)
Day 36: Zanzibar to Bagamoyo (via Dar es Salaam) – Tanzania
This morning we catch the ferry back to Dar es Salaam, where our overland truck awaits. We then head to Bagamoyo for an overnight stay. Founded in the late 1700s, Bagamoyo is known for its construction of traditional wooden dhow sailing boats. This vibrant town offers a glimpse into Tanzania’s history, influenced by German colonial, Swahili, Arabic, and Christian missionary cultures. The remainder of the afternoon is free for a swim in the Indian Ocean or a stroll along the beach as the sun sets.
- Included Activity: Zanzibar return ferry
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 37: Arusha – Tanzania
Today, we take a scenic drive to Arusha, the gateway to the Northern Safari Circuit in Tanzania. The Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area, two of Africa’s top wildlife destinations, await. We camp in the vibrant town of Arusha, located at the base of Mount Meru. The evening includes a briefing from our local guide on our upcoming Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater Safari.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 38: Arusha to Karatu – Tanzania
We leave Arusha today and drive through the Great Rift Valley, heading to Karatu. This town lies between Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Crater. We stop at Mto wa Mbu village for a market visit and a taste of village life, where you can sample the unique red bananas grown in the region.
- Included Activity: Mto wa Mbu Market visit
- Optional Activities: Local Brewery Tour, Coffee Plantation Tour
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 39: Ngorongoro Crater & Serengeti Seronera – Tanzania
Rise early for an exciting day in Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit. Our 4×4 safari vehicles take us down into the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the densest wildlife habitats in Africa. The Crater is home to the Big 5: lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino. After a day of game viewing, we drive to Serengeti National Park, where we’ll camp at Seronera, renowned for its outstanding predator sightings.
- Included Activity: Full day safari in Ngorongoro Crater, Game Drive to Seronera
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 40: Serengeti National Park – Tanzania
We spend the entire day exploring the vast Serengeti National Park, renowned for its expansive grasslands and abundant wildlife, including the wildebeest herds. Serengeti is considered one of Africa’s top safari destinations. After a thrilling day of game viewing, we return to our camp in Seronera for a delicious dinner.
- Included Activity: Serengeti Safari
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 41: Serengeti to Arusha – Tanzania
On day 41, we return to Arusha, enjoying panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley en route. We’ll spend our last night at a comfortable campsite in Arusha, reflecting on the incredible experiences of our Cape Town to Nairobi Safari.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 42: Arusha to Nairobi – Kenya
On the final day of our adventure, we head north into Kenya, passing by the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro. Crossing into Kenya, we reach Nairobi, where our Cape Town to Nairobi adventure ends. You may choose to dine out in one of Nairobi’s excellent restaurants to celebrate this unforgettable journey.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Adventure In The Wild Safaris offers an extraordinary journey through Tanzania’s iconic landscapes, combining vibrant cities, rich culture, and unforgettable safari experiences. From the Serengeti to the Ngorongoro Crater, this is the ultimate Tanzania safari experience.