Please note: This itinerary is flexible and can be changed without notice. A detailed, up-to-date dossier itinerary is available to download.
Day 1 – Northern Delta to Maun
Today is your arrival day in Maun where you will meet your crew and fellow passengers in the late afternoon. You will overnight in Maun and your crew will brief you on the days ahead while you travel to the Khwai Conservation Area.
Day 2 – Khwai Conservation Area
You will be separated from your Nomad truck for the next 2 nights and it is therefore important that you pack/gather your personal belongings which you may need, before we 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. Accommodation in Khwai can best be described as a rustic style mobile fly camp. Your meru style tent is equipped with 2 single beds and adjoining en-suite amenities consisting of a bucket shower system and chemical toilet. Today we make our way towards the Okavango Delta. Early risers 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. Our guide will prepare us on what to expect for our afternoon mokoro excursion into the Okavango Delta. (Please note: It is possible that the mokoro activity could take place the following morning, depending on the season).
Day 3 – Moremi Game Reserve
Today is a full day game drive as we spend most of our day on safari in the Moremi Game Reserve in search of the species that roam the plains. Expect some bumpy roads as we traverse this wilderness area in our 4×4 vehicles. Offering habitats from wetland, open water to the grasslands and Savannah woodland, we hope to see as many species of fauna and flora possible. This evening, we arrive back at Khwai to share and compare all the amazing sightings while on safari.
Day 4 – Khwai to Nata
After a final sunrise in the heart of Khwai, we bid farewell to the untamed beauty of Botswana’s wilderness and begin our journey southward. Our route takes us through Maun where we re-unite with our Nomad vehicle. From Maun, we continue northeast towards Nata and our overnight lodge. This is more than just a stopover — it’s a truly unique destination where elephants roam freely through the unfenced lodge area, often drinking from the natural waterhole just meters from your chalet. We enjoy our dinner, surrounded by the quiet hum of the bush and the soft sounds of giants passing through.
Day 5 – Nata to Kasane – Chobe National Park
This morning, we start our day early with a bush walk, giving us the chance to get up close to nature. It’s a wonderful opportunity to see animal tracks and other subtle signs of the wilderness that are often hidden from view on a safari vehicle. Walk completed, we journey from Kalahari sands of Nata to Kasane and arrive in time for lunch and a quick siesta before we head out in the afternoon to explore the Chobe National Park from the river, enjoying a leisurely boat cruise which allows us an up close and personal experience with the many elephants that frequent the river in the afternoons.
Day 6 – Zimbabwe -Victoria Falls
With the memories of our wildlife encounters firmly etched in our minds, we cross the border into Zimbabwe this morning and travel the short distance to Victoria Falls. Today you will 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. This evening, you have the option to join the group for an optional dinner at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy a meal and reflect on the day’s adventures. Your guide will arrange a booking for those who wish to participate.
Day 7 – Victoria Falls
With the many activities on offer in Victoria Falls, today is the perfect day for the adventure that most suites your style. Whether rafting the mighty Zambezi River or enjoying a flight over the Falls, this is your day to enjoy the many attractions on offer in Victoria Falls.
Day 8 – Livingstone, Zambia
As your tour continues tomorrow from Livingstone, your accommodation for tonight has been booked in Livingstone. You can however spend the day in Victoria Falls and transfer over to Livingstone in the late afternoon. The transfer from Victoria Falls to Livingstone is included in your tour. You have the choice of booking a morning transfer (08:00) or afternoon transfer (16:00). Please indicate your preferred time with your booking agent and/or Nomad at the time of booking.
Day 9 – Lusaka
Setting off early from the Zambian side of Victoria Falls, we catch a last sighting of the mighty falls before we head off on a long day travelling. We get our first impressions of East Africa through the window of our truck: colourful markets, busy villages and rural scenes form the backdrop of our journey as we travel through Zambia. We enjoy a prepared meal on arrival as our guides brief us on the days ahead.
Day 10 – Petauke
This morning, we drive through Zambia’s busy capital Lusaka before turning east towards Petauke, our destination for the night. As an important link between Lusaka and neighbouring Malawi, the Great East Road winds through rural Zambia and we 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.
Day 11 – South Luangwa National Park
We look forward to the tranquillity of South Luangwa and this morning we make our way to the banks of the Luangwa River. We make a stop at Mulberry Mongoose to view their local jewellery and curios, these accessories are hand crafted by local ladies from South Luangwa using organic materials originating from the African bush. The Chipata area is a major producer of cotton, and we get a taste of the creativity of the African culture. 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.
Day 12 – South Luangwa National Park
South Luangwa National Park is a world-class safari destination, and we 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 or during the dry season (April to December) you can join one of the iconic walking safaris on offer in the park. This afternoon we will enjoy a sunset drive in the park including a sundowner stop. The unique opportunity to explore the park at night gives us a chance to spot the elusive nocturnal species that are rarely seen in the day.
Day 13 – Lake Malawi
This morning, we board our truck and set off for Malawi, the warm heart of Africa. Our 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 any other lake. We spend the night on the shores of the lake this natural wonder.
Day 14 – Lake Malawi
Today is all about the lake and this day 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. If you wish, an optional hike can be done with a local guide to the nearby Dwanbazi Waterfall. Located a short 30-minute drive from Nglala Beach Hotel, the waterfall offers a breath-taking panorama from the summit. Depending on the weather, we may even have the opportunity to take a refreshing swim in the pristine waters surrounded by the lush greenery and natural splendour of the surrounding landscape.
Day 15 – Lake Malawi
Today we are back on the road for most of the day travelling further north and will overnight once again on the banks of Lake Malawi. This evening enjoy the sunset over the lake from the beach.
Day 16 – Mbeya
We depart this morning and continue north, heading for the Utengule Coffee Lodge where we will overnight.
Day 17 – Tanzania – Iringa
Before heading to Iringa, we will make a stop at a local coffee plantation where we have the opportunity to see the process of growing and harvesting coffee beans and will be able to sample some of the beans. We then ascend the Great Rift Valley and make our way further into Tanzania.
Day 18 – Mikumi
This morning, we complete our journey to the doorstep of Mikumi National Park. We have a quick stop at the Baobab Valley, Tanzania. A mesmerizing landscape dotted with ancient, towering baobab trees that have stood the test of time. These iconic trees create a surreal and breath-taking scene, casting dramatic shadows against the African savannah, the perfect backdrop to stop for a group picture. We then reach Mikumi, which 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. Today you will have the opportunity to book a game drive in Mikumi National Park.
Day 19 – Mikumi
Today you will have the opportunity to book additional safaris in Mikumi National Park or embark on a variety of cultural tours.
Day 20 – Dar es Salaam / Bagamoyo
We overnight at our accommodation before an early start the following morning to catch our transport to Zanzibar Island.
Day 21 – Stone Town (Zanzibar)
We head out early to catch our transport to Zanzibar Island. After arriving at the ferry port, we make our way to our hotel located in Stone Town.
Day 22 – Zanzibar Beaches
Boasting a rich history this busy port was once a landmark on both the Slave and Spice trade routes. Our morning begins with a walking tour of Stone Town to discover the more well-known landmarks, including the birthplace of Freddy Mercury. After our city tour, we travel by road to our base for the next 2 nights. Before our arrival, we will stop along the way to enjoy a guided walking spice tour, which passes through villages and spice plantations. You will be able to witness first-hand how spice farm workers climb the trees and seek out specific plants and will have the opportunity to purchase fresh spices directly from these farms.
Day 22 – Zanzibar Beaches
Today is a free day to enjoy some of the many attractions and activities on offer. Water sports are the order of the day. Whatever it is you chose to do today, you will have ample opportunity to create some island memories. Explore the many attractions on offer or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
Day 24 – Bagamoyo
We bid farewell to the white-sand beaches and turquoise waters of Zanzibar. We board the ferry back to the mainland, arriving in the port city of Dar es Salaam, reunite with our truck and hit the road, heading north along the coast toward Bagamoyo. Once a major hub of East Africa’s trade routes, Bagamoyo is steeped in history and Swahili culture. The drive offers a glimpse into the energy of city life before giving way to more laid-back coastal scenery. We arrive in Bagamoyo by late afternoon and settle into our accommodation.
Day 25 – Moshi
From the coastal lowlands of Bagamoyo, the landscape gradually shifts to rugged highlands as we pass through vibrant towns, remote villages, and stretches of open savannah. Along the way, we’ll witness the rhythms of daily life and enjoy the raw beauty of Tanzania’s countryside. If time permits this afternoon, book an optional activity to a local coffee plantation or a guided cycling tour.
Day 26 – Karatu
Although it is relatively short distance to Karatu, we will spend most of the day commuting closer to the Ngorongoro Crater. Before our arrival in Karatu, we will visit the Mto wa Mbu Market which is situated in the little village of Mto wa Mbu. Known for crops such as rice and their distinctive red bananas, the town sits on the main road that leads directly to the Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater Conversation Area. Tonight, our guide will brief us on our 2-night excursion.
Day 27 – Ngorongoro Crater & Serengeti National Park (Seronera) Excursion
We rise early and will be collected from our camp and transferred to the Ngorongoro Crater in 4×4 safari type vehicles. We will spend the morning exploring the crater floor in search of the animals which roam the plains. In the afternoon, we will arrive at our 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, we will enjoy the sights and sounds of nature passing right in front of your meru style tent.
Day 28 – Serengeti
This morning, we rise early to enjoy a full day’s game drive through Serengeti National Park. Famous for the abundant wildlife that exists in the park, we will spend most of our day in search of the animals that reside here.
Day 29 – Arusha
We depart the Serengeti National Park with amazing memories and make the return journey to Arusha where we will spend the night reminiscing about our experiences of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
Day 30 – Kenya – Nairobi
We cross the border into Kenya this morning and make our way to Nairobi where our journey ends on arrival.