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45 Day Johannesburg to Nairobi & Gorilla Safari (Lodge Overland tour)

45-Day Johannesburg to Nairobi & Gorilla Safari with Adventure In The Wild Safaris

Embark on an unforgettable Johannesburg to Nairobi & Gorilla Safari with Adventure In The Wild Safaris. This epic 45-day Africa Overland Tour takes you through some of the continent’s most iconic destinations, including Botswana, Victoria Falls, Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Kenya, and Uganda — where you’ll enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime Uganda gorilla safari in Bwindi Forest. Travel in comfort, staying at handpicked lodges and camps as you explore Africa’s diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife.

Quick Safari Overview

This affordable lodge overland tour begins in Johannesburg, South Africa, and concludes in Nairobi, Kenya. Highlights include:

  • The magical Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park in Botswana
  • The thundering Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and Zambia
  • Wildlife-rich South Luangwa National Park in Zambia
  • Scenic Lake Malawi and the Southern Highlands of Tanzania
  • Zanzibar Island’s exotic beaches and Swahili culture
  • The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania
  • Kenya’s Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru
  • The unforgettable Uganda gorilla safari in Bwindi Forest
  • Adventure sports at the source of the Nile in Jinja, Uganda

Responsible Travel Notice

Adventure In The Wild Safaris does not support or endorse any form of unethical animal interactions, such as walking with lions or elephant rides. We are committed to promoting responsible travel that respects Africa’s wild animals and natural ecosystems.

Itinerary Highlights (Days 1–12)

Day 1: Johannesburg to Palapye – Botswana

Depart Johannesburg and travel to Botswana, staying overnight at a comfortable lodge in Palapye.

Meals: Lunch & Dinner

Day 2: Palapye to Maun – Botswana

Continue through the Kalahari Desert to Maun, gateway to the Okavango Delta. Optional scenic flight available.

Optional: Okavango Delta Scenic Flight

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Maun to Khwai River Conservation Area

Travel in 4×4 vehicles into the Okavango Delta. Stay in a mobile tented camp near the Khwai River and enjoy a traditional mokoro canoe ride and nature walk.

Included: Sunset Mokoro Trip

Optional: Scenic Flight

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4: Moremi National Park – Botswana

Enjoy a full-day game drive in Moremi, known for its Big Five and diverse birdlife.

Included: Game Drive

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Khwai to Maun & Nata (Makgadigadi Pans)

Return to Maun and head east to the surreal salt pans near Nata. Overnight at a lodge with a nearby elephant-frequented waterhole.

Included: Makgadigadi Salt Pans Viewpoint

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6: Nata to Kasane & Chobe National Park

Arrive in Kasane and enjoy a relaxing boat cruise in Chobe National Park, renowned for its massive elephant herds.

Included: Chobe River Boat Cruise

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7: Kasane to Victoria Falls – Zimbabwe

Cross into Zimbabwe to explore the mighty Victoria Falls. Enjoy free time and choose from a variety of adventure or leisure activities.

Optional: Bungee Jumping, Helicopter Flights, Sunset Cruise, and more

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 8: Livingstone (Victoria Falls) – Zambia

Transfer to Livingstone and continue to explore Victoria Falls and the surrounding activities from the Zambia side.

Optional: Sunset Cruise, Boma Dinner, Rafting, Helicopter Flights

Meals: Breakfast

Day 9: Livingstone to Lusaka – Zambia

Journey northeast through Zambia to Lusaka, staying overnight in a peaceful bush lodge.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 10: Lusaka to Petauke – Zambia

Travel the Great East Road toward Malawi, stopping at Luangwa Market to experience vibrant local culture.

Included: Market Visit

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Days 11–12: South Luangwa National Park – Zambia

Stay in a luxury tented camp on the Luangwa River and explore one of Africa’s best wildlife parks. Enjoy optional morning game drives or walking safaris, and a scenic sunset drive.

Optional: Morning Game Drive or Walking Safari (seasonal)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Days 13 & 14: South Luangwa to Central Lake Malawi – Malawi

On day 13 of our Adventure In The Wild Safaris overland journey, we cross into the enchanting country of Malawi, affectionately known as the “Warm Heart of Africa.” Our destination is the pristine southern shores of Lake Malawi, part of the East African Rift system. This magnificent lake stretches over 500 kilometers and is renowned for hosting more fish species than any other lake on Earth.

We spend two nights at a charming lakeside lodge, where you can unwind at your own pace. Swim in the warm, clear waters, relax on the golden beach, or embark on a guided hike to the nearby Dwanbazi Waterfall. Other optional activities include kayaking, snorkeling, or enjoying a boat trip on the lake.

  • Optional Activities: Snorkeling, Horse Riding, Paddle Skiing, Waterfall Hike
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (x2)

Day 15: Central to Chitimba (Northern Lake Malawi) – Malawi

Today, Adventure In The Wild Safaris continues north along Lake Malawi’s edge to Chitimba village. Along the way, we stop at a traditional fishing village where your guide will lead a walking tour offering insights into the local culture.

In Chitimba, unwind at the lakeside lodge with a drink in hand, soaking in the vibrant sunset. David Livingstone aptly called this the “Lake of Stars” due to the twinkling lanterns of fishing boats dotting the water by night.

  • Included Activity: Malawi Village Tour
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 16: Lake Malawi to Mbeya Mountains – Tanzania

Leaving Lake Malawi behind, our Adventure In The Wild Safaris overland trip ventures into Tanzania, navigating the rolling hills and valleys of the Great Rift Valley. After border formalities, we ascend into the Mbeya Mountains, a region known for coffee and tea farming. Our overnight stay is in cozy bungalows on a coffee estate.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 17: Mbeya to Iringa – Tanzania

We journey through the Southern Highlands of Tanzania, past terraced farms and scenic passes. A visit to a working coffee plantation offers a chance to explore the fields and sample fresh brews. We overnight at a peaceful farm lodge in Iringa.

  • Included Activity: Coffee Plantation Tour
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Days 18 & 19: Iringa to Mikumi National Park – Tanzania

We descend into Baobab Valley for a photo stop before reaching Mikumi National Park, part of the 75,000 km² Selous ecosystem. Spend two nights at a safari lodge near the park, where you can enjoy optional game drives or cultural tours. Mikumi is home to Masai giraffes, elephants, buffalo, lions, and many antelope species.

  • Optional Activities: Mikumi Game Drive, Cultural Tours
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (x2)

Day 20: Mikumi to Dar es Salaam – Tanzania

Today, our Adventure In The Wild Safaris itinerary brings us to the bustling coastal city of Dar es Salaam. Spend the afternoon exploring local markets and enjoying Tanzanian cuisine with a stunning ocean sunset view.

  • Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 21: Dar es Salaam to Stone Town (Zanzibar Island) – Tanzania

We ferry to Zanzibar Island, known as the Spice Island. In Stone Town, stroll through narrow alleys and vibrant spice markets. Enjoy local seafood and the charm of Forodhani Gardens in the evening.

  • Included Activity: Zanzibar Ferry
  • Meals: Breakfast

Days 22 & 23: Zanzibar Beach Resort – Tanzania

Begin with a walking tour of Stone Town, then enjoy a Spice Tour en route to our beach resort on the east coast. Spend two nights relaxing, snorkeling, or taking dhow sailing trips. This tranquil escape is perfect for unwinding on white-sand beaches.

  • Included Activities: Stone Town Tour, Spice Tour
  • Optional Activities: Dhow Sailing, Jozani Forest, Snorkeling, Scuba Diving
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (x2)

Day 24: Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam & Bagamoyo – Tanzania

After the ferry back to Dar es Salaam, we rejoin our overland truck and travel to Bagamoyo. Discover this historic town with its Swahili, Arabic, and German colonial heritage, still renowned for dhow boatbuilding.

  • Included Activity: Zanzibar Return Ferry
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 25: Bagamoyo to Arusha – Tanzania

Travel inland to Arusha, the gateway to the Northern Safari Circuit and Mount Kilimanjaro. Prepare a small bag for the upcoming three-day safari into Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 26: Arusha to Karatu – Tanzania

We journey through the Great Rift Valley to Karatu, stopping at Mto wa Mbu village to explore the colorful market and experience the cultural diversity of over 120 ethnic groups.

  • Included Activity: Mto wa Mbu Market Visit
  • Optional Activities: Local Brewery Tour, Coffee Plantation
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 27: Ngorongoro Crater & Serengeti National Park – Tanzania

In 4×4 safari vehicles, we descend into the wildlife-rich Ngorongoro Crater, home to over 25,000 animals. Later, we continue into Serengeti National Park for a game drive en route to our luxury tented camp in the Seronera region.

  • Included Activities: Ngorongoro Crater Safari, Serengeti Game Drive
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 28: Serengeti National Park – Tanzania

Spend a full day exploring the iconic Serengeti. Look out for the Big 5 and other wildlife like cheetahs, giraffes, wildebeest, and countless birds. Optional Hot Air Balloon Safaris are available (advance booking required).

  • Included Activity: Full-Day Serengeti Game Drive
  • Optional Activity: Hot Air Balloon Safari
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 29: Serengeti to Arusha – Tanzania

Today we bid farewell to the Serengeti as Adventure In The Wild Safaris makes its way back to Arusha, capping off an unforgettable journey through East Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes and national parks.

Day 30: Arusha to Nairobi – Kenya

Cross into Kenya and journey through scenic rural landscapes toward Nairobi, Kenya’s vibrant capital. Enjoy local culture, cuisine, and even a unique city safari in Nairobi National Park.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 31 & 32: Nairobi to Masai Mara National Reserve – Kenya

Travel in 4×4 vehicles to the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve. Spend two nights in a comfortable tented camp as you explore the Big 5 and witness the awe-inspiring landscapes that define this classic safari destination.

Included Activity: Masai Mara Safari

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (x2)

Day 33: Masai Mara to Lake Nakuru National Park – Kenya

Drive to Lake Nakuru, famous for its flamingos and thriving rhino population. Enjoy a game drive before overnighting in Nakuru town.

Included Activity: Lake Nakuru Game Drive

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 34: Nakuru to Jinja – Uganda

Enter Uganda, the ‘Pearl of Africa’. Stop at the Equator before heading to Jinja, the source of the Nile River, and Uganda’s adventure capital.

Included Activity: Equator Crossing

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 35: Jinja to Masindi & Murchison Falls – Uganda

Travel to Masindi near Murchison Falls National Park. Optionally, visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to see rhinos on foot.

Optional Activity: Ziwa Rhino Walk

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 36: Chimpanzee Trek in Budongo Forest – Uganda

Trek through Budongo Forest in search of wild chimpanzees, then take a boat safari along the Nile in Murchison Falls National Park.

Included Activity: Chimp Trek (Half Day), Nile River Cruise

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 37: Masindi to Lake Kikorongo – Uganda

Head further west into Uganda toward Lake Kikorongo, overlooking Queen Elizabeth National Park and its striking volcanic landscape.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 38: Lake Kikorongo to Lake Bunyonyi – Uganda

Cross the Equator again en route to Lake Bunyonyi, one of Africa’s deepest and most scenic lakes. This is the gateway to your Uganda Gorilla Safari.

Included Activity: Equator Crossing

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 39 & 40: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest – Uganda

Join one of Africa’s most sought-after adventures: a Uganda Gorilla Safari. Trek through the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to spend time with endangered mountain gorillas. When not trekking, relax by Lake Bunyonyi or take optional excursions.

Optional Activities: Gorilla Trek, Pygmy Visit, Rwanda Day Tour

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (x2)

Day 41: Lake Bunyonyi to Lake Mburo – Uganda

Travel to Lake Mburo National Park, known for its diverse birdlife and stunning landscapes. Overnight at a lodge with panoramic views.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 42 & 43: Lake Mburo to Jinja – Uganda

Return to Jinja for two days of adventure or relaxation. Choose white-water rafting, river bugging, kayaking, or a boat cruise to the Nile’s source. Enjoy bungee jumping or quad biking for an adrenaline rush.

Optional Activities: Rafting, Bugging, Kayaking, Boat Cruise, Bungee Jumping, Horse Riding, Quad Biking

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (x2)

Day 44: Jinja to Eldoret – Kenya

Re-enter Kenya and spend the night in Eldoret, home to world-class athletes and high-altitude training camps.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 45: Eldoret to Nairobi – Kenya

Return to Nairobi, where this unforgettable Uganda Gorilla Safari and overland journey ends. Reflect on the once-in-a-lifetime experiences and incredible wildlife sightings.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Tour Notes:

This itinerary is flexible and may be adjusted to maximize wildlife encounters, particularly during the gorilla trekking experience. Gorilla trekking permits are limited and not included in the tour price.

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