Nairobi to Cape Town Epic

A day-by-day breakdown of what to expect and where you'll be staying.

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Day 1, Nairobi to Masai Mara

We depart from the bustling city of Nairobi and leave for our first viewpoint where we stop to overlook the Great African Rift Valley. We then descend into the valley and enter Masai land. The Masai, habitual pastoralists are seen quite regularly on the side of the road as they tend their cattle. We arrive at our campsite in the early evening in time to enjoy sunset over the plains of the Masai Mara.

Day 2, Masai Mara

We will look for the infamous Big 5 as well as the plentiful plains game and birdlife on our game drives. You will see this 'garden of Eden' in a state nature intended it to be, rolling hills, huge plains, and an abundance of game matched no where else on earth. Buffalo, elephant, lion, cheetah, zebra, wildebeest, waterbuck just to name a few of the animals that inhabit this wild wonderland. Sitting around a campfire listening to the bush sounds, whilst watching the sun set is the perfect way to finish a day's game viewing in the Mara.

Day 3, Masai Mara to Kisumu

Leaving early in the morning and passing stunning tea plantations, we descend the glorious Rift Valley Plateau on our way toward Lake Victoria. We restock our supplies and overnight here.

Day 4, Kisumu to Kampala

After an early start we cross the border into Uganda and travel via the lakeside town of Jinja (the Source of the Nile) before reaching Kampala, Uganda's capital, for an overnight stay. Uganda is a small country with beautiful scenery and friendly people. Don't forget to wave at the kids when they come running out of their houses to check you out!

Day 5, Kampala to Kisoro

After passing through some beautiful countryside we arrive at Kisoro - our base for the Gorilla trekking adventure - in time to get organised for tomorrow.

Day 6, Kisoro

From our base in Kisoro and depending on permit availability and the location of the Gorillas, we have the option of joining a Gorilla trek in either Magahinga or Bwindi National Parks in Uganda, the Virunga in the DRC, or the Ruhengeri, Rwanda. An unforgettable experience! 100% of the gorilla permit cost is used to by the parks authorities to protect and promote these amazing creatures.

Day 7, Kisoro to Lake Bunyoni

After our gorilla trek it's now time for some downtime. We head for Lake Bunyoni, the deepest crater lake in Africa. We can camp on the shores and enjoy the peace and tranquility of this pretty lake. If you're lucky you'll spot some of the elusive otters or just enjoy the variety of birdlife present.

Day 8, Lake Bunyoni

A day of leisure today. Visit the local village, hike, canoe, swim, catch up on writing your postcards... or relax, and sit back and enjoy the beautiful lake and its creatures. We have the whole day to enjoy the beauty of Lake Bunyoni and its surrounds.

Day 9, Lake Bunyoni to Kampala

We return to Kampala after enjoying the peaceful surrounds of Lake Bunyoni. We cross the equator for the second time and there will be ample opportunity for photos at the Equator crossing. If you want to try out Kampala's night life then tonight is your chance!

Day 10, Kampala to Jinja

A short drive brings us to Jinja, at the Source of the River Nile. We have the option to either white water raft the Nile or visit Ngamba Chimpanzee Sanctuary.

Day 11, Jinja to Lake Nakuru National Park

We leave Uganda behind and  head in Kenya today where we overnight in Nakuru, capital of the Rift Valley Province, in preparation of our journey into Lake Nakuru National Park.

Day 12, Lake Nakuru National Park

After restocking our supplies in town we explore the Lake Nakuru National Park - a soda lake that is famous for the huge volumes of lesser and greater flamingos that flock here. A truly spectacular sight! We also keep an eye out for Black and White Rhino, Leopard, Buffalo, Giraffe, antelope and the occasional Hippo before spending the night at a bush camp within the Park.

Day 13, Lake Nakuru National Park to Lake Naivasha

Moving east again we head to Lake Naivasha, home to the magnificent African Fish Eagle. At 1880 m this is the highest Rift Valley lake and time permitting we can spend the afternoon enjoying optional excursions close by. We spend our last night in a lovely campsite on the lakes edge.

Day 14, Lake Naivasha to Nairobi

Our trip of a lifetime is drawing to a end... We leave Naivasha after breakfast and return to Nairobi, arriving in the early afternoon.

Day 15, Nairobi to Arusha

After a short but somewhat bumpy trip we cross the border at Namanga, enter Tanzania and continue to Arusha in the heart of Masai lands. This pleasant town is situated at the base of Mount Meru and is the starting point for your optional excursion to Ngorongoro Crater and/or Serengeti National Park.

Day 16, Arusha to Serengeti National Park

From Arusha you have the option of visiting the famous Serengeti National Park. You will depart Arusha in the morning with your vehicles and guides, if you take up the two-night/three day option. From Arusha you drive through the Masai town of Mtu Wa Mbu (Mosquito River) and up into the Ngorongoro Nature Reserve for a glimpse of the Ngorongoro Crater. Then you descend down onto the vast plains of the Serengeti. The abundance of plains game has never stopped to suprise anyone entering this wildlife heaven. The afternoon will be spent game spotting before setting up camp in the midst of the park. A camp fire and the night time noises of the wildlife finish off a day in one of East Africa's most famous game parks!

Day 17, Serengeti National Park to Ngorongoro Conservation Area

An absolute 'must do' when in Tanzania. Pass through the 'Cradle of Mankind' and the Rift Valley whilst enjoying one of the best game viewing opportunities Africa has to offer. An early start takes us off for a full morning game drive in the Serengeti. We head back towards Ngorongoro where we sleep on the Crater's edge. We suggest you wear your winter woollies as it can get pretty cold on the rim of the crater during night times.

Day 18, Ngorongoro Conservation Area to Arusha

This morning we descend into the Ngorongoro Crater with its 600 metre walls. This Garden of Eden is 20-kilometre wide and a true natural wonder. The size of this caldera is only appreciated from the floor itself where the abundance of its animal inhabitants becomes apparent. It is home to nearly every species of African animal and offers great photo opportunities of most of East Africa's mammals, such as Elephant, Rhino, Buffalo, Hippo, Lion, and plain's game. After spending the morning in the Ngorongoro Crater you will return to our overnight stop near Arusha for the night.

Day 19, Arusha to Pangani

Leaving Arusha we head towards the warm Indian Ocean. Travelling through the town of Moshi we cross the southern slopes of Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. If we're lucky the day is clear and you might be able to view the snowy summit & another great photo opportunity. Continuing south we pass the Usambara Mountains on our left and after driving past vast sisal plantations we are on our way to Dar es Salaam.

Day 20, Pangani to Dar Es Salaam

Leaving Pangani early we head for exotic Dar Es Salaam. A long day's drive through beautiful lush scenery and palm trees sees us arriving late in Dar. We sent up camp for the night at a beach hotel/campsite which is situated to the north of the city. There is time to prepare for your departure to Zanzibar tomorrow.

Day 21, Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar

We have the option to spend the following nights on the famous 'Spice Island'. The long and rich history of Zanzibar is reflected in the varied architecture, markets and cultures of Stone Town, while further north you can relax on the white sand beaches or scuba dive in the clear warm water.

Day 22 to 23, Zanzibar Island

Zanzibar offers a wealth of experiences for the visitor. The quiet streets of the old Stone Town still retain their Arabic influence. With pretty Medina-like shops, the palaces of the Sultans, its spices, tours around a spice plantation - there is something for everyone on this island. You can even hire a motorbike and explore the more remote areas of Zanzibar.

Day 24, Zanzibar Island to Dar es Salaam

We take the ferry back to mainland for another night in Dar es Salaam. Time permitting there may be an opportunity to visit one of the local craft markets offering a large range of exquisite products (where prices depend on your bargaining skills).

Day 25, Dar Es Salaam to Iringa

Today we head deeper into Tanzania. Passing through Mikumi National Park we might be lucky and view a fair amount of wildlife from our truck. We spend the night at the Old Farmhouse, a beautiful rustic spot in rural Tanzania. Try one of their famous Amarula hot chocolates!

Day 26, Iringa to Lake Malawi

The following morning we head for Malawi passing through some gorgeous rolling hills, and beautiful tea and rubber plantations before exiting Tanzania.

Day 27, Lake Malawi

The huge Lake Malawi stretches as far as you can see as you drive along the western coastline. Other than the beautiful views, spend some time taking up some of the many water based activities on offer or trip into a local village to meet some real 'salt of the earth' Malawians.

Day 28, Lake Malawi

Today you can spend some time taking up some of the many water based activities on offer, trip into a local village or relax on the beach and read your book.

Day 29, Lake Malawi

Other than water activities, scuba diving, visits to local villages or relaxing on the beach there is also time for some shopping! Locally made crafts are often beautifully turned out and reasonably priced. Don't forget to check your home country's rules regarding importing these products before you buy. Bartering with the locals is expected!

Day 30, Lake Malawi

After all that shopping, water sports, village visits, horse rides and scuba diving, today should be a day to rest! Catch up on your postcards and diary and hang out on the beach.

Day 31, Lake Malawi to Chipata

After an early start we cross the border into Zambia, a large green country with pretty lush scenery. Our first night in Zambia is spent at a beautiful little campsite just over the border.

Day 32, Chipata to Lusaka

We cross the landlocked country of Zambia, passing through the capital Lusaka where we spend the night. The campsite is home to some local wildlife and has nice facilities available to us.

Day 33, Lusaka to Livingstone

Heading off early this morning to Livingstone. One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World - Victoria Falls - is a sight to behold and it's not difficult to see why. An option for tonight is a sunset dinner cruise on the mighty Zambezi while watching the sun go down and the wildlife come out to drink - stunning!

Day 34, Livingstone to Victoria Falls

A quick hop over the mighty Zambezi River sees us in a new country, Zimbabwe, on the other side of the Victoria Falls. As you cross the bridge keep a eye open for the bungy jumpers throwing themselves off the side. On arrival there is time to check out the Falls Craft Village and plan your adventure activities for the days ahead.

Day 35, Victoria Falls

Today you will have a chance to do a few of the optional activities on offer in this adventure paradise. The Falls can be seen from many viewing points in the Victoria Falls Park or from the Zambian side. You will have many photo opportunities. Bungee jumping enthusiasts can take the plunge from the Zambezi Bridge, which connects Zambia and Zimbabwe and the White water rafting is considered world class. Also, flights over the Vic Falls and the islands are available.

Day 36, Victoria Falls

Spend today walking around this little town with its BIG waterfall, rest by the pool, write your postcards, shop or chill out at a little cafe. If that sounds too relaxing then finish off the adventure activities you haven't tried yet!

Day 37, Victoria Falls to Chobe National Park

This morning we depart Victoria Falls and after a short drive cross the border of Zimbabwe into Botswana. We set up camp for the night at the banks of the Chobe River and prepare for our first night under Botswana's star-filled skies. Chobe is renowned for the large herds of elephant around the Chobe River so bring plenty of spare film!

Day 38, Chobe National Park

There is the option of a early morning game drive should you wish to spot some game as they come out for a drink in the cool, crisp morning. After lunch we jump on our boat for a cruise along the Chobe River, to spot some more of the world's largest mammals and some of the smallest bird species.

Day 39, Chobe National Park to Maun

Today, after an early morning start, we travel to Maun - the base camp for the Okavango Delta region. We pass by the stark and endless-looking Makgadikgadi Pans so keep an eye out for Elephant and Giraffe as well as birdlife.

Day 40, Maun to Okavango Delta

You have the opportunity to take a 3 day / 2 night excursion into the Delta. You travel in local transport and then in mokoros, the local dug out canoes, which are poled by local guides through the winding waterways. These local canoes are a perfect way to navigate this waterway wonder - the biggest inland Delta in the world. Your guides will select a place out in the bush to set up camp. An afternoon game walk will allow you to experience the Delta wilderness in all its glory.

Day 41, Okavango Delta

Today is a free day for you to spend at your leisure. The variety of optional activities range from game walks to swimming. Relax and take in the beauty of your surroundings.

Day 42, Okavango Delta to Maun

Today we return to Maun, however, you will have the chance for an early morning game walk before packing up camp. There is also the option of a scenic flight over the Delta in the afternoon - the best way to appreciate the expanse of waterways you have travelled through.

Day 43, Maun to Rundu

We head in a north west direction along the Kavango River and enter Namibia. We stock up on supplies in Rundu before reaching our campsite for the night on the banks of the Kavango River. Our campsite is complete with 'open air' facilities and the occasional wild hippo grazing on the lawn.

Day 44, Rundu to Etosha National Park

We arrive at Etosha National Park in the late afternoon. Etosha is Namibia's major nature reserve, covering over 22 000 square kilometres with a large variety of animal and bird species. The park is situated around the Etosha Pan, and has a network of gravel roads that enables us to get to far & remote areas of the park.

Day 45, Etosha National Park

We have a full day of game driving, making our way from east to west, across 150kms of the park. We relax this evening listening to the sounds of Africa. Floodlit waterholes allow us to get as close to the action as possible, and still be behind the fence!

Day 46, Etosha National Park to Cheetah Park

We have a short drive to the Cheetah Park. It is a private farm and you will learn about the conservation of the cheetah population in Namibia. You will also have a chance to meet the resident cheetah's up close!

Day 47, Cheetah Park to Spitzkoppe

After a full day's drive, we arrive at Spitzkoppe. The 1728m high rock formation is one of Namibia's landmarks. You will have a chance to view the bushman paintings and explore the surrounding area at your own speed.

Day 48, Spitzkoppe to Swakopmund

Today we head for Swakopmund, an old German colony founded in 1892. Rest in the excellent coffee shops, restaurants & bars, browse the craft shops selling Namibian curios or check out the museum, aquarium or art galleries. Otherwise take a quiet walk along the beach and get ready for some adrenaline pumping activities!

Day 49 to 50, Swakopmund

Spend the day relaxing or take up one of the many optional activities on offer in this desert town. Skydiving, quad biking, fishing trips, desert flights, golf, water sports, sand boarding and 4WD hire are just a few!

Day 51, Swakopmund to Sesriem

Today we head south, past Walvis Bay enroute to Sesriem. Close by and surrounded by a sea of sand dunes, is Sossusvlei. The top of the dunes, some over 300m high, offers fantastic vies of the desert. We spend the afternoon exploring. One of the optional "must do's" is to walk in this area with the highly specialised local guides of Sossus on Foot who will have some amazing stories to tell. Tonight, a sunset view from the top of a big dune will prove to be one of your most memorable experiences.

Day 52, Sesriem to Fish River Canyon

After a stunning sunrise we leave the Namib - Naukluft Park area and head south to the Fish River Canyon. The second largest canyon in the world was forming by a mixture of both tectonic activity and water erosion. A road follows the canyon rim allowing us access to several viewing points from where we can take in the spectacular view.

Day 53, Fish River Canyon to Orange River - South Africa

Further south we cross over the Orange River, the natural land border of Namibia, and enter South Africa. Our gorgeous campsite rests on the bank of the river. An option this afternoon is to take a canoe trip on the peaceful Orange River and check out the bird life.

Day 54, Orange River - South Africa to Cedarberg

An early morning start sees us travelling south through Namaqualand - well known for its glorious Namaqua wildflowers flooding the fields with colour for miles and miles each spring. We stop for the night in 'Wine Country' and our lovely campsite is surrounded by local wine farms. The stunning scenery ranges from the towering Cederberg Mountains to the flat fields of maize on the plain.

Day 55, Cedarberg Mountains to Cape Town

After passing through the fruit growing area of Citrusdal we cross the Picketberg Pass and head into the Cape's main wine growing regions. On a clear day we will see Table Mountain from afar - assuming the 'Table Cloth' doesn't hamper our efforts - arriving in the 'Mother City' in the afternoon.

Day 56, Cape Town

Your tour ends this morning after breakfast. Make sure to spend a few extra days exploring this cosmopolitan city - the Mother City of South Africa.

Meals included in your tour cost

51 Breakfasts, 45 Lunches, 44 Dinners

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Highlights included in your tour cost

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There are 69 optional activities available on this trip.

Prices shown are approximate

• $60 Abseiling Table Mountain
• $75 Arusha Camel Rides
• $35 Chobe National Park Game Drive
• $125 Chobe National Park Sleepout
• $20 Crescent Island Wildlife Sanctuary
• $30 Dhow Fishing Trip - Zanzibar
• $10 Elsamere
• TBA Game Fishing
• $600 Gorilla Trekking in the DRC
• $600 Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
• $250 Great White Shark Cage Diving
• $45 Hells Gate National Park
• $95 Jet Boating on the Zambezi
• $10 Jinja Guided Village Walk
• $70 Jinja Quad Bike Safari
• $60 Kande Beach Horse Riding
• $40 Kande Beach Scuba Diving
• TBA Kande Beach Water Sports Equipment
• $10 Karen Blixen Museum
• $15 Lake Malawi Snorkelling Trip
• $110 Lake Malawi Water Skiing
• TBA Lake Nakuru National Park
• $20 Langata Giraffe Centre Visit
• $10 Malawi Village Walk & Meal
• $5 Masai Cultural Village
• $435 Masai Mara Hot Air Balloon Ride
• $70 Moped Hire - Zanzibar
• $65 Nairobi National Park
• $60 Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary
• TBA Ngorongoro Crater Excursion
• $30 Nungwe Snorkel Trip
• $150 Okavango Delta Mokoro Excursion
• $80 Okavango Delta Scenic Flight
• $30 Orange River Canoeing
• $370 PADI Dive Course - Zanzibar
• $60 Paragliding
• $40 Prison Island Excursion
• $20 Prison Island Snorkelling Trip
• $450 Serengeti National Park Excursion
• $520 Serengeti National Park Hot Air Balloon Ride
• $10 Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Rhino Sanctuary
• $25 Softpower Community Project
• $35 Sossusvlei Guided Walk
• $230 Sossusvlei Scenic Flight
• $35 Stone Town City Tour
• $25 Stone Town Spice Tour
• $85 Swakopmund Quadbiking
• $45 Swakopmund Sandboarding
• $320 Swakopmund Sky Diving
• $70 Swakopmund Township Tour
• $110 Swimming with Dolphins
• $140 Victoria Falls Adrenaline Day
• $105 Victoria Falls Bungee Jump
• $110 Victoria Falls Elephant Ride
• $120 Victoria Falls Flight of Angels
• $115 Victoria Falls Helicopter Flight
• $70 Victoria Falls Horse Rides
• $120 Victoria Falls Microlight Flight
• $20 Victoria Falls National Park
• $115 Victoria Falls Rhino Walk
• $75 Victoria Falls Scenic Flight
• $115 Walk with the Lions - Victoria Falls
• $125 White Water Rafting on the Nile
• $110 White Water Rafting on the Zambezi River
• $65 Zambezi Gorge Swing
• $140 Zambezi River Rafting & Boarding Combo
• $50 Zambezi River Sunset Dinner Cruise
• TBA Zanzibar Scuba Diving
• TBA Zimbabwe Walking Safaris