Route: Cape Town to Citrusdal – 200km
The Cederberg region not only boasts spectacular mountains and orange farms, but it is also the home of the Rooibos bush. Indigenous to the mountain slopes of the Cedarberg, this herbal beverage has earned an international reputation as a healthy and refreshing alternative to regular tea. The Cedarberg region is known for its mountain fynbos and spectacular views of the rugged Cedarberg Mountains. Tonight you get an opportunity to get acquainted while enjoying some South African hospitality. (LD)

Route: Citrusdal to Orang River – 540km
Namaqualand presents you with your first experience of the Desert vistas that will accompany us in the days ahead. Continue your journey north and after a short stop for supplies in Springbok, travel to your camp on the banks of the Orange River. If you are fortunate enough to be travelling in the spring months (July to September) you may encounter the wild flowers that have made this region famous. No matter the time of year though, the strange desert vistas offer a unique backdrop to this day’s travel. (BLD)

Included Highlight: Spring Wild Flowers (seasonal July to September).

Route: Orange River to Fish River Canyon – 130km
While the Orange River was named after the Dutch Royal House, in recent times it has been referred to by its original name of Gariep, which simply means “river” in the indigenous KhoeKhoe language. Beginning its journey in the mountains of Lesotho, the Orange River is the longest river in South Africa and offers a unique contrast to the desert landscapes along its banks. The best way to experience the river is by getting out on the water and this morning you have the opportunity to join an optional canoe trip on the river. Around midday (after lunch) you depart the Orange River and head inland to your overnight stop. At Ai Ais, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the mineral and sulphur rich hot springs. (BLD)

Optional Activity: Half day canoe trip.

Every overland journey has some long travelling days and today is one of those as you venture deeper into the Namib Desert. Your destination is the dune fields that cover the western reaches of the desert. Long dusty roads and sparsely populated farmlands offer you an insight into the vastness of rural Namibia. From the grasslands in the east to the red dunes of the west the slowly changing landscapes represents the many faces of this desert country. Tonight you will camp on the doorstep of the dune fields and fall asleep to the unique calls of the elusive Barking Gecko. (BLD)

Included Highlight: Sesriem Canyon.

Route: Keetmanshoop to Namib Naukluft National Park – 470km
Every overland journey has some long travelling days and today is one of those as we venture deeper into the Namib Desert. Your destination is the dune fields that cover the western reaches of the desert. Long dusty roads and sparsely populated farmlands offer us an insight into the vastness of rural Namibia. From the grasslands in the east to the red dunes of the west the slowly changing landscapes represents the many faces of this desert country. Tonight you will camp on the doorstep of the dune fields and fall asleep to the unique calls of the elusive Barking Gecko. (BLD)

Included Highlight: Sesriem Canyon.

Today you will rise early for your drive to the Namib-Naukluft National Park. Entering the park just after sunrise and travel through to the famous Dune 45. A brisk climb up Dune 45 offers the perfect vantage point to marvel at the changing colours of the desert. Once satisfied you descend this famous dune and enjoy a hearty breakfast before catching a 4×4 transfer into Sossusvlei, here you will spend time on foot visiting the pans at Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. Tonight empty the red sand from your shoes and spend the night under the magnificent desert stars, knowing that you have spent a full-day enjoying the wonders of this harsh land. (BLD)

Included Highlight: Sunrise hike up Dune 45, 4×4 shuttle to Sossusvlei / Deadvlei.

Route: Naukluft Area to Swakopmund – 300km
Your final day in the desert comes to an end as you join a local expert for an educational desert excursion. Reluctantly you leave the Namib behind and after a stop to mark your crossing of the Tropic of Capricorn, you continue to the Atlantic coastline. Making your way to the coastal town of Swakopmund, where adventure and a dose of civilisation await. You make a brief stop at the Walvis Bay lagoon, where you hope to catch a glimpse of the flamingo’s that feed in the shallows. Arriving in Swakopmund you will have the opportunity to book some of the many adventures on offer (additional cost). (BLD)

Included Highlight: Tropic of Capricorn, Walvis Bay Lagoon and Guided desert walk with local expert.

While for many it is the adrenaline fuelled adventures that will grab their attention, Swakopmund offers all that and more. Take the opportunity today to explore the town at your leisure, as there are a number of attractions for every taste. Not to be missed is the selection of famed coffee shops and bakeries that offer a delightful range of German inspired treats. Swakopmund offers all the conveniences of a small city and is the perfect launching pad for the journey through the northern reaches of the land. (BLD)

Optional Activity: Dolphin cruise, Skydiving, Sandboarding, Quad biking.

Route: Swakopmund to Brandberg – 200km
Leaving early, you make your way to the massive granite formations of Spitzkoppe which tower 700 metres above the desert plains below. The presence of rock art indicates their significance to the San people who lived here many years ago. You will enjoy a walk with a local guide and have the opportunity to view some examples of the San’s rock art before setting off for your overnight stop for the evening. (BLD)

Included Highlight: Visit and explore Spitzkoppe with a local guide.

Route: Brandberg to Kamanjab – 250km
The Brandberg (Burning Mountains) are regarded as the highest in Namibia and home to the famous White Lady, one of more than 45,000 rock paintings in the area. This morning you will make the 1-hour hike to visit the painting that is said to be around 2,000 years old. (Please be advised that the hike does traverse rough terrain along the gorge of the normally dry Tsisab River). After your exploration, your journey continues to the area of Kamanjab. (BLD)

Included Highlight: Brandberg White Lady Hike.

Route: Kamanjab to Etosha National Park – 250km
Rising early this morning you drive to the Etosha National Park. Etosha is the venue for some of the most unique game viewing experiences in Africa. This afternoon you reach the park and begin with your first game drive as you make your way to the rest camp. (BLD)

Included Highlight: Afternoon game drive in Overland truck.

Your second day in Etosha allows for a full day to continue your exploration of the park. No day on safari is ever the same and the suspense before that special sighting is the motivation that keeps your eyes wide open. You will explore the edges of Etosha Pan in search of the abundant wildlife that occur in the park. (BLD)

Included Highlight: Full day game drive in Overland truck.

Route: Etosha National Park to Windhoek – 460km
It is an early rise as we take aim for Windhoek, the capital city of Namibia. Upon arrival in Windhoek, we will take a short walk through the city centre and have the opportunity to view some of its better known landmarks. (Our accommodation for the night is situated halfway between the city and the airport). (BLD)

Included Highlight: Walk through Windhoek with your guide.

Route: Windhoek to Ghanzi – 500km
Today travel east and make your way to neighbouring Botswana and the Kalahari Desert. Starkly different to the Namib Desert after which Namibia is named, the Kalahari is no less dramatic and covers over 900 000 square kilometres. The San people have long been associated with this harsh environment and tonight you will enjoy a dance evening that provides an insight into their culture of song, dance and story-telling. (BLD)

Included Highlight: San Guided Walk (could take place the next morning), San tribal dance in evening.

Route: Ghanzi to Khwai Conservation Area via Maun – 430km
You will be separated from your Overland truck for the next 2 nights and it is therefore important that you pack/gather your personal belongings which you may need, before you depart for Maun today as there is limited time in Maun for re-packing and storing. Please pack lightly and only take what you need for the following two nights.

This morning you rise early and make your way towards Maun, where upon arrival in Maun you will have the opportunity to go on an optional scenic flight over the Delta (time and weather permitting). After your optional flight, you will be collected from Maun and will be transferred to the Khwai Conservation area in smaller safari type vehicles. This evening your guide will prepare you on what to expect for your mokoro excursion into the Okavango Delta and your game drive in Khwai. (BLD)

Optional Activity: Okavango Delta scenic flight.

Heading out early, you transfer by safari vehicle, to the poling station, where you will meet the polers who will be escorting you into the Delta. The polers will steer you through the serene area of narrow, reed lined channels which open out onto beautiful lagoons. Reaching one of the many islands, a nature walk may be taken with your pole and after the walk, you return by mokoro through the channels back to the poling station. While the mokoro trail is not primarily a game viewing activity, a variety of game may be spotted in this pristine wilderness area, including elephant, giraffe, kudu, impala and zebra. After lunch, you will return to Khwai Conservation area for your afternoon game drive which will be conducted in open 4×4 safari vehicles. The game viewing routes chosen during the afternoon by the professional guide may vary especially when high floods are experienced as certain roads may be closed or impassable. (BLD)

Included Highlight: Okavango Delta morning mokoro excursions / Khwai Conservation afternoon game drive.

Route: – Khwai Conservation Area to Kasane via Savuti Game Reserve – 270km
Today’s journey through the Savuti National Park to reach Kasane is expected to take approximately 10 hours. You will pack up camp and depart at first light on the open 4×4 safari vehicles. The road conditions can best be described as dense sand and depending on the season you are travelling in, could be through thick vegetation. During the winter months (May-September) it is strongly suggested to layer up on clothing, pack a beanie and/or scarf and thick jacket. Animal sightings can never be guaranteed while you transit/traverse these wilderness areas and any stops for viewing of the wildlife will add to the time spent in the 4×4 safari vehicle. It is suggested stocking up on snacks and at least 1 x 5l bottle of water in Maun for the journey as there are no re-supply points until you reach Kasane.

The Savuti Game Reserve is a unique area bordered by the Okavango Delta to west and Chobe National Park to the east. Savuti is renowned as a big game area and known for having the largest concentrations of wildlife in Southern Africa. Today is a long day as you spend most of your day travelling through the Savuti Game Reserve in search of the species that roam the plains. Expect some bumpy roads as you traverse this wilderness area in your 4×4 vehicles. Offering habitats from wetland, open water to the grasslands and Savannah woodland, it is hoped to see as many species of fauna and flora as possible. This afternoon you arrive on the banks of the Chobe River and will be re-united with your Overland truck in the town of Kasane. (BLD)

Included Highlight: Full day game drive through Savuti Game Reserve in 4×4 safari vehicle.

For those, that opt to participate in the optional game drive in Chobe National Park, you will be collected early from camp and will venture out in open 4×4 safari type vehicles. You will return to camp in time for lunch and a quick siesta before you head out in the afternoon to explore the Chobe National Park from the river, enjoying a leisurely boat cruise which allows you an up close and personal experience with the many elephants that frequent the river in the afternoons. (BLD)

Included Highlight: Chobe National Park boat cruise.
Optional Activity: Chobe National Park game drive.

Route: Kasane to Victoria Falls – 85km
With the memories of your wildlife encounters firmly etched in your minds, you cross the border into Zimbabwe this morning and travel the short distance to Victoria Falls. Today you have the opportunity to visit the spectacular Victoria Falls at your leisure, also known by the local name of “Mosi-oa Tunya” (the smoke that thunders). While much of today is dedicated to viewing the mighty Zambezi River as it drops into the Batoka Gorge below, the bustling adventure town of Victoria Falls also offers a range of optional activities for those wanting a dose of adrenaline in the afternoon. For the more relaxed traveller there are craft markets and coffee shops on offer as well. (BLD)

Optional Activity: Visit the Victoria Falls, Bungee jump, Gorge swing, Sunset cruise, Helicopter flights.

With the many activities on offer in Victoria Falls, today is the perfect day for the adventure that most suits your style. Whether rafting the mighty Zambezi River or enjoying a flight over the Falls (at own expense), this is your day to enjoy the many attractions on offer in Victoria Falls. (BLD)

Optional Activity: Zambezi sunset cruise, bungee jump – solo, helicopter flights and White water rafting.

Route: Victoria Falls to Lusaka – 490km
Setting off early from Victoria Falls, you will catch a last sighting of the mighty falls before crossing the border into Zambia. While you have a long day travelling today, you will get your first impressions of the Africa that awaits you. Colourful markets, busy villages and rural scenes form the backdrop of your journey to the outskirts of Lusaka. Enjoy a prepared meal on arrival as your guides brief you on the days ahead. (BLD)

Included Highlight: View of Victoria Falls from the Bridge.

Route: Lusaka to Petauke – 420km
This morning drive through Zambia’s busy capital Lusaka before turning east towards Petauke, your destination for the night. As an important link between Lusaka and neighbouring Malawi, the Great East Road winds through rural Zambia and you will cross the mighty Luangwa River along the way. Dotted with villages and subsistence farms, todays landscapes serve as a stark contrast to the developed countries so many of us call home. (BLD)

Route: Petauke to South Luangwa National Park – 180km
With two days of travel behind, you will look forward to the tranquillity of South Luangwa and this morning you will make your way to the banks of the Luangwa River. Your first stop though is the town of Chipata, home of Chipata Cotton and an important centre for the cotton famers of the region. Tribal Textiles represents the creativity of the African culture and those interested can enjoy a tour of their workshops (March to December). One of the finest sunsets is surely that enjoyed on the banks of the Luangwa River, so grab a cold drink and watch the day fade away. (BLD)

South Luangwa National Park is a world-class safari destination and you have a full day to explore the park in search of the variety of wildlife found in the park. This morning you can partake in an optional morning safari (at own expense) or during the dry season (April to December) you can join one of the iconic walking safaris (at own expense) on offer in the park. This afternoon you will enjoy a Sunset Drive (included in activity package) in the park, split your time between day and night with a sundowner stop in between. The unique opportunity to explore the park at night gives you a chance to spot the elusive nocturnal species that are rarely seen in the day. (BLD)

Included Highlight: Sunset Game Drive in South Luangwa National Park.
Optional Activity: Safari Walk (seasonal) or Morning Game Drive in South Luangwa.

Route: South Luangwa National Park to Lake Malawi – 500km
This morning board your truck and set off for Malawi, the warm heart of Africa. Your destination tonight is the shores of Lake Malawi, the southernmost lake in the East African Rift system. As one of the ten largest lakes in the world, the lake stretches for over 500km along the western boundary of Malawi and is home to more species of fish than other lake. Spend the night on the shores of this natural wonder. (BLD)

Today is set aside for you to relax at the lake. Use the time to read a book, soak up the sun or indulge in the many attractions that are on offer. (BLD)

Included Highlight: Malawi Village Tour.

Route: Lake Malawi – Move lodges – 300km
Today you are back on the road for most of the day travelling further north and will overnight once again on the banks of Lake Malawi. Enjoy the sunset over the lake from the beach. Your guide will assist you to plan your activities for the coming days, or you can simply slow your clock to Africa time relaxing on the lake shore. (BLD)

Route: Lake Malawi to Utengule – 240km
You depart this morning and continue north, heading for the Utengule Coffee Lodge where you will overnight. (BLD)

Route: Utengule to Iringa – 310km
Before heading to Iringa, you will make a stop at a local coffee plantation where you have the opportunity to see the process of growing and harvesting coffee beans and will be able to sample some of the beans. You then ascend the Great Rift Valley and make your way into Tanzania. (BLD)

Route: Iringa to Mikumi – 250km
This morning complete your journey to the doorstep of Mikumi National Park. Mikumi ranks as the fourth largest park in Tanzania, but forms part of a 75 000 square kilometre wilderness that centres on Selous, Africa’s largest game reserve. Abutting the northern border of this vast wilderness, Mikumi offers you an opportunity for an afternoon of game viewing (included in activity package). (BLD)

Optional Activity: Mikumi National Park game drive.

Route: Mikumi to Zanzibar (incl Ferry) – 530km
You rise early and travel from Mikumi to the Port of Dar Es Salaam, where you will board the ferry and make the ocean journey to the island of Zanzibar. Your home for the next three nights, Stone Town offers a perfect stop to enjoy the beaches and activities on offer. (BLD)

Route: Stone Town to Nungwi – 60km
Boasting a rich history this busy port was once a landmark on both the Slave and Spice trade routes. This morning we will embark on a 20-30 minute boat journey to Prison Island, which was once a place where slaves were detained. On return to Stone Town, you will travel by road to the north of the island, Nungwi and your base for the next 2 nights. You will explore the beautiful Jozani Forest during the afternoon. (BLD)

Included Highlight: Prison Island boat trip / Jozani Forest half day tour.
Optional Activity: Fishing, Snorkelling, Scuba Diving, Turtle Sanctuary visit, Village Tours and more.

Today is a free day to enjoy some of the many attractions and activities on offer. Water sports are the order of the day and Nungwi offers fishing, snorkelling, scuba diving and a variety of ocean safari options. Whatever it is you chose to do today, you will have ample opportunity to create some island memories. Rent a scooter and explore the many attractions on offer or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun. (BLD)

Optional Activity: Fishing, snorkelling, scuba diving, turtle sanctuary visit, village tours and more.

Route: Nungwi to Bagamoyo (Ferry) – 210km
You bid farewell to the island and board your return ferry, on arrival back at the Dar es Salaam port, you reunite with your truck and return to Bagamoyo where you spend the night. (BLD)

Route: Bagamoyo to Arusha – 550km
Heading north this morning travel across the northern reaches of Tanzania, your destination tonight is the bustling town of Arusha which is the launching point for the Serengeti. Northern Tanzania is home to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Kilimanjaro. This evening you will be briefed on the excursion to Serengeti by your local guide as you prepare for the coming days. (BLD)

Route: Arusha to Karatu – 160km
Although it is short distance to Karatu, you will spend most of the day commuting closer to the Ngorongoro Crater. Upon arrival in Karatu, your guide will brief you on the full day excursion into the crater. Karatu is conveniently situated to allow you the opportunity to participate in various optional activities in the coming days. (BLD)

Optional Activity: Local brewery tour, Karatu Iraqw market, local coffee plantation tour.

Route: Karatu to Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti – 300km
You rise early and will be collected from your camp and transferred to the Ngorongoro Crater in 4×4 safari type vehicles. you will spend the bulk of your day exploring the crater floor in search of the animals which roam the plains. In the afternoon, you will arrive at your overnight camp in the Seronera region, located in the heart of the Serengeti National Park. The camp is surrounded by spectacular views and abundant wildlife and this evening, while sipping on a cold beverage, you will enjoy the sights and sounds of nature passing right in front of your meru style tent. (BLD)

Included Highlight: Full day 4X4 Excursion to Ngorongoro Crater and afternoon game drive into the Serengeti.

Route: Serengeti to Karatu – 170km
This morning you rise early to enjoy your time game driving through Serengeti National Park. Famous for the abundant wildlife that exists in the park, you will spend most of your day in search of the animals that reside here. You will arrive back in Karatu in the late afternoon and will spend your evening reminiscing about your encounters of the past two days. (BLD)

Included Highlight: Game drive through Seronera area of Serengeti National Park.

Route: Karatu to Arusha – 160km
Returning to Arusha, tonight we will reunite with our fellow travellers who opted for the optional Serengeti excursion and we share our experiences of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. (BLD)

Route: Arusha to Nairobi – 295km
We cross the border into Kenya this morning and make our way to Nairobi where our journey ends on arrival. (BLD)