Leaving behind the city of Johannesburg, travel through the North-West Province to the Botswana border. After completing border formalities continue on the Trans-Kalahari highway to your overnight stop. (D)
After breakfast venture deeper into the Central Kalahari and your camp in the Ghanzi district, here you will spend time getting to know the fascinating San people. After lunch will join your San guides for a guided walk that will introduce you to the many secrets of their survival in the Kalahari Desert. The nomadic San are hunter-gatherers that have passed down a rich knowledge of the plants and animals that play such an important part in their lifestyle. This evening you will get a first-hand experience of the San culture, well known for its rich traditions of song, dance and story-telling. (BLD)
Included Highlight: San evening dance performance.
Activity Package: Bush walk with San guides.
Day 3 - Maun
This morning bid farewell to the San and make your way to Maun, gateway to the Okavango Delta. There will be time this afternoon for those who wish to enjoy an optional scenic flight (at own expense) over the Okavango Delta. Your guides will brief you this evening on what you will need for the upcoming Delta excursions, please note that baggage restrictions apply for transfers to the camps so a small daypack or similar is advisable. (BLD)
Optional Activity: Okavango Delta Scenic Flight.
Day 4 – Okavango Delta
This morning embark on your exploration of the Okavango Delta, one of Africa’s great wilderness areas. This unique and unusual ecosystem sees the annual flood waters of the Okavango River fan out into the sands of the Kalahari Basin. The seasonality of the flood waters lends the Delta its ever changing character. While water levels may fluctuate the tranquillity of this wilderness area remains constant. (BLD)
Please be advised that clients who have not selected the Okavango Delta Excursion as part of their Activity Package, will remain in Maun with the truck for the next 2 nights, accommodated clients in en-suite rooms and camping clients in the campsite with shared ablutions. Meals are provided by the base camp and optional activities are available.
Activity Package: Okavango Delta Campsite (including a flight into the Okavango Delta).
Day 5 – Okavango Delta
A full day is set aside to enjoy the activities on offer in the Delta, while the programme of activities is flexible to accommodate the seasonal changes in water levels, you will have the opportunity to enjoy amongst other activities traditional mokoro rides and natures walks. The Okavango Delta is not only a natural wonder, but represents one of the last unspoilt wilderness areas in the world today. (BLD)
Activity Package: Okavango Delta Excursion.
Day 6 - Nata
Your journey today takes you across the northern reaches of the Makgadigadi Pans, the road to Nata is lined with majestic examples of the iconic Baobab tree. While you will pause to experience a finger of the pan on your journey from Maun, those who would like to can join an optional excursion to the Pans this afternoon. (BLD)
Day 7 – Chobe National Park
Rise early this morning as you continue north to your camp on the banks of the Chobe River. This afternoon is set aside for exploring the Chobe National Park. Begin your exploration in 4X4 vehicles, which allows you an up close and personal experience with the many elephants that frequent the river in the afternoons. The afternoon ends with a leisurely boat cruise and a meal served around the campfire. (BLD)
Activity Package: Chobe National Park game drive and Chobe National Park boat cruise.
Day 8 – Victoria Falls
With the memories of your wildlife encounters firmly etched in your minds, you cross the border to Zimbabwe this morning and travel the short distance to Victoria Falls. Today visit the spectacular Victoria Falls, also known by the local name of “Mosi-oa Tunya” (the smoke that thunders). (B)
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 (at own expense) for those wanting a dose of adrenaline in the afternoon. For the more relaxed traveller there are craft markets to explore and a delicious high tea is on offer at the Victoria Falls Hotel. Tonight you enjoy an optional dinner out, your guide will assist you to decide on the many options available.
Activity Package: Victoria Falls National Park Entry Fee.
Optional Activity: Bungee jump, gorge swing, sunset cruise, helicopter flights, boma dinner experience, dinner cruise and more.
Day 9 – Victoria Falls
With the many activities on offer in Victoria Falls (at own expense), today is the perfect day for the adventure that most suits your style. Whether rafting the mighty Zambezi River or enjoying a scenic flight over the falls below, this is your day to enjoy the many attractions on offer in Victoria Falls. (B)
Optional Activity: White water rafting, canoe trips, game drives and many more.
Day 10 - Lusaka
*Please note that it is possible that your crew and truck will change today. Please report to the hotel reception to meet your crew for your 07:00 departure from the Victoria Falls Rainbow Hotel. (BLD)
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.
Included Highlight: View of Victoria Falls from the Bridge.
Day 11 - Petauke
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)
Day 13 – South Luangwa National Park
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 enjoy a Sunset drive in the park, you will 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)
Activity Package: Sunset game drive in South Luangwa National Park.
Optional Activity: Safari walk (seasonal) or morning game drive in South Luangwa.
Day 14 – Malawi
This morning board your truck and set off for Malawi, the warm heart of Africa. The 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)
Day 15 – Malawi
Taking your time this morning enjoy the charms of sunrise on the Lake, head out this afternoon and come to rest on the northern reaches of the lake shore. Here you will spend a few days indulging in the many attractions that underlie the charm of the Lake and its people. Your base for the next three nights offers a range of opportunities to satisfy every wish. (BLD)
Day 16 – Lake Malawi
Amongst the myriad of optional activities to fill your days (at own expense), you will pay a visit to a local community this morning to meet the people of the lake. Snorkelling in the crystal waters offers the chance to see first-hand the brilliantly coloured tropical cichlids, tiny fish often found in colourful aquariums around the world. 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)
Included Highlight: Local village visit.
Optional Activities: Snorkelling, community volunteering.
Day 17 – Lake Malawi
This morning set aside some time for a visit to Karonga, this interesting town has a turbulent history as a centre Malawi’s slave trade. Home to a museum that boasts a dinosaur amongst its displays, you will learn more of the rich history of both people and the natural world. Return for a final afternoon of relaxation and a final sundowner on the shores of this great lake. (BLD)
Included Highlight: Karonga Town and museum visit.
Optional Activity: Snorkelling, community volunteering.
Day 18 - Iringa
Today leave Malawi, and ascend the Great Rift Valley and make your way into Tanzania. You will round the northern extremes of the lake as you turn east and continue to your overnight stop in Iringa. (BLD)
Day 19 – Mikumi National Park
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. (BLD)
Activity Package: Mikumi National Park game drive.
Day 20 – Dar es Salaam
Today continue onwards to the bustling port of Dar es Salaam, tonight you have an opportunity to dinner out on the town (at own expense) as you prepare for your upcoming excursion to Zanzibar. Dar es Salaam grew from a humble fishing village and today is one of the largest cities in Africa. (BL)
Optional Activity: Dinner.
Day 21 – Zanzibar Excursion
Boarding the ferry to Zanzibar this morning and make the ocean journey to the island of Zanzibar. On arrival you will partake in a Spice Tour before reaching Nungwi on the northern point of the island. Your home for the next two nights, Nungwi offers a perfect stop to enjoy the beaches and activities on offer (at own expense). Those who have not opted for the Zanzibar Excursion will remain in Dar es Salaam for the next three nights. (BD)
Activity Package: Zanzibar Excursion.
Included Highlight: Spice Tour and City Tour.
Optional Activity: Sunset sailing trips, snorkelling and more.
Day 22 – Zanzibar Excursion
Today is a free day for enjoying some of the many attractions and activities on offer (at your own expense). 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. (BD)
Activity Package: Zanzibar Excursion.
Optional Activity: Fishing, snorkelling, scuba diving, Turtle Sanctuary visit, village tours, Jozani Forest and more.
Day 23 – Zanzibar Excursion
Your visit to Nungwi comes to an end today as we travel to Stone Town this afternoon. Boasting a rich history this bustling port was once a landmark on both the Slave and Spice trade routes. Overnight here before returning to Dar es Salaam in the morning. (BD)
Activity Package: Zanzibar Excursion.
Day 24 – Bagamoyo
This morning you have some time to explore the sights of Stone Town, the rich history and vibrant markets are some of the highlights of any visit to Zanzibar. Bid farewell to the island this afternoon and board your return ferry. On arrival in Dar es Salaam make the short journey north to Bagamoyo where you will make your stop for the night. (BLD)
Included Highlight: Stone Town.
Day 25 - Arusha
Heading north this morning you travel across the northern reaches of Tanzania, your destination tonight is the bustling town of Arusha which is your 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 our local guide as you prepare for the coming days. (BLD)
Day 26 – Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater Excursion
The following days are set aside for the 3 night optional camping excursion into the Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater (at own expense). This area has one of the most densely inhabited large animal populations in Africa. The Serengeti excursion is in open topped 4X4 safari vehicles in order to tackle the challenging side roads in the parks. Leave your accommodation in the morning and drive to the Serengeti. On arrival you will start with your first game drive. (BLD)
The campsites Nomad visits are fully owned by the Tanzania National Parks Board. Over 90,000 tourists visit the Serengeti National Park annually. These facilities are sadly not sufficiently maintained by the Parks Board and Nomad have attempted to offer their services to improve the situation, however the offers were not accepted. We do ask that you have an open mind when visiting the ablutions in the Serengeti National Park. Please supply your own wet wipes and toilet paper.
For those are not taking part in the optional Serengeti Excursion, you will remain behind at the accommodation at Ndoro Lodge, take this chance to absorb some of the fascinating local culture. Optional Activities available to be booked at the accommodation: Various Serengeti & Ngorongoro Excursion packages, Lake Manyara game drives, day hiking & village tours and many more various day trips. Meals are not included for those not participating in the Serengeti excursion.
Optional Activity: Serengeti Camping Excursion (min. 4 people).
Day 27 – Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater Excursion
Spend the entire day game driving through the Serengeti. Your route is depending on the movement of the game and sightings. (BLD)
Day 28 – Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater Excursion
Today explore more of the Serengeti and make your way to the famous Ngorongoro Crater. Drive down to the bottom of the Crater, where you will try and see as many animals as possible. (BLD)
Day 29 – Arusha
Returning to Arusha tonight you will share your experiences of the Serengeti and prepare for the trip to Nairobi tomorrow. (BLD)
Day 29 – End of Nomad Johannesburg to Nairobi Tour
Cross the border into Kenya this morning and make your way to Nairobi where your journey ends on arrival. (B)
Optional Activity: Dinner.