Zanzibar to Cape Town - South  

  Duration36 Days

Day 1 – Zanzibar Beaches

After meeting your crew and fellow travellers, we complete the short journey to the ferry port and board our ferry for the two hour trip to Zanzibar. Once in Zanzibar we make our way to the eastern shores of the island where we will spend the next two nights at a beachfront resort.  Relax on the beach, enjoy the infinity swimming pool or rent a bicycle and explore the neighbourhood.  You will have the opportunity to leave your main luggage with the driver in the truck while you are on Zanzibar.  If you so wish to do so, please ensure you pack a smaller backpack before meeting the crew. 

Day 2 – Zanzibar Beaches

Today is a free day to enjoy some of the attractions and activities on offer. 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 3 – Stone Town (Zanzibar)

This morning we transfer by road to Stone Town.  Before we arrive in Stone Town, 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.  We continue to Stone Town, boasting a rich history this busy port town was once a landmark on both the Slave and Spice trade routes.  We will enjoy a walking tour of Stone Town to discover the more well known landmarks, including the birthplace of Freddy Mercury. 

Day 4 – Dar es Salaam

We bid farewell to the island of Zanzibar and we catch our ferry back to Dar es Salaam in the early afternoon, where we will overnight before continuing our journey.

Day 5 – Mikumi

Leaving the coast behind us we travel inland and make our way to Mikumi where we stop for the night. Mikumi National Park ranks as the fourth largest park in Tanzania and forms part of a 75 000 square kilometre wilderness that centres on Selous, Africa’s largest game reserve.

Day 6 – Iringa

The town of Iringa sits on a cliff overlooking the Ruaha River Valley.  The town centre offers the visitor a view into the past with its German colonial buildings and a popular market. The Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery memorialises soldiers who died in local battles during WWI and WWII.

Before reaching the town, we have a quick stop at the Baobab Valley, 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.

Day 7 – Mbeya Region

This afternoon 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.

Day 8 – Lake Malawi
Leaving Tanzania behind, we descend the Great Rift Valley and cross the border into Malawi. Known as the “Warm Heart of Africa” the lakeside country is blessed with natural beauty Our destination tonight is the shores of Lake Malawi where we look forward to spending the night enjoying the attractions of the northern regions 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.

Day 9 – Lake Malawi

This morning we board our truck and head further South of Lake Malawi. Our destination tonight is the shores of Lake Malawi.  Stretching over 500km along the western boundary of Malawi, the lake is home to more species of fish than any other lake. We spend the night on the shores of this natural wonder.

Day 10 – Lake Malawi

Today is another day of leisure, relaxing at the lake.  Use the time to read a book, soak up the sun or indulge in the many attractions that are on offer.

Day 11 – South Luangwa

This morning we enjoy a final sunrise on the shores of Lake Malawi before setting off for Zambia and the South Luangwa National Park.  After crossing the border into Zambia we make a short stop in Chipata before continuing to our camp on the banks of the Luangwa River. Having watched the sun rise over Lake Malawi in the morning we enjoy an equally spectacular sunset over the Luangwa River this evening.

Day 12 – South Luangwa

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, enjoying a sundowner on the way. 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 – Petauke

Leaving the Luangwa Valley this morning, 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.  Our destination tonight is the small town of Petauke.

Day 14 – Petuake – Chirundu

Setting off we head west towards Chirundu, our destination for the night, we make a delightful stop at Luangwa Market, a bustling hub where local Zambian vendors showcase their wares. Among the treasures on display are masau and masaku, delectable fruits that are available year-round and renowned for their mouth-watering taste. In addition, other African curios catch our eye, from charming miniature hippos to intricately woven baskets and papyrus carpets, adding to the colourful tapestry of this vibrant marketplace. 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 15 – Chirundu

As our lodge is situated along the banks of the Kafue River, today is free for you to participate in some of the activities on offer.  Fishing on the Zambezi River is one of the most popular activities, or book a full day safari experience in the Lower Zambezi National Park. Other optional activities include a river safari, birding and an excursion to the baobab forest and bat cave. 

Day 16 – Livingstone

Crossing the Southern reaches of Zambia we make our way to the adventure town of Livingstone located right on Victoria Falls. This afternoon you can get your first look at the mighty Victoria Falls, or as the Zambian locals call it, “Musi oa Tunya”, the Smoke that Thunders as the falls are known in the local language.  Your accommodation has been booked in Livingstone for tonight.

Day 17 – Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

With the many activities on offer in Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) and Livingstone (Zambia), 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.  As your tour continues from Victoria Falls, a transfer from Livingstone to Victoria Falls is included in your tour price.  However, you can choose to spend the day in Livingstone and transfer to Victoria Falls in the late afternoon.  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. You will meet with your crew for a briefing at 17:00pm in the reception area of Shearwater Explorers Village. 

Day 18 – Victoria Falls – Kasane – Chobe National Park

This morning you will have the opportunity to participate in the many optional activities on offer in the town of Victoria Falls.  After lunch, we travel the short distance to the Botswana border, crossing into Botswana and will arrive at our accommodation in the late afternoon, to set up camp on the banks of the Chobe River.

Day 19 – Kasane to Nata

We leave the banks of the Chobe River, and head south into the Kalahari Desert. You’ll notice the ‘bushveld’ change as you get closer to Nata, our overnight stop close to Botswana’s famous salt pans. This afternoon, after our arrival in Nata, we enjoy a guided drive to the Nata pans, which forms the breeding ground for a host of water birds including pelicans and flamingo in their thousands (birds dependant on seasonal migratory patterns).

Day 20 – 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 camp today.  Please pack lightly and only take what you need for the following two nights.   Today we make our way towards the Okavango Delta. 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 4×4 safari type vehicles.  Our guide will prepare us on what to expect for our afternoon mokoro excursion into the Okavango Delta.

Day 21 – 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 22 – Khwai to Maun

We will depart early this morning in our 4×4 vehicles and make our way back to Maun, where we will overnight, before heading for our next adventure in Namibia.

Day 23 – Maun to Divundu

We start early this morning as we continue north-west and cross the border into Namibia, venturing towards the Kavango River for our overnight stop in Divundu. We will stay at our lodge and enjoy a leisurely boat cruise on the beautiful Kavango River.

Day 24 – Divundu to Etosha

This morning we depart for the gates of Etosha National Park. With vast salt pans, savanna and woodland, Etosha is one of Africa’s finest game parks. At 18 000 sq km, it is one of the biggest Parks in Southern Africa. Etosha means “great white area”, which refers to the large dried pan in the middle of the Park. We will enjoy our first game drive as we enter the park and travel the short distance to our overnight rest camp for the night.

Day 25 – Etosha National Park

We will head out of camp this morning to explore the surrounding plains in search of the many animal species that call Etosha home.  After enjoying our lunch back at camp, you can choose to relax at the waterhole, climb the Okaukuejo tower or join the guide for an afternoon game drive in the Nomad truck.

Day 26 – Etosha National Park

Our third day in Etosha allows for a full day of exploration of the park. No day on safari is ever the same and the suspense before that special sighting is the motivation that keeps our eyes wide open.  We explore the edges of the Etosha Pan in search of the abundant wildlife that occur in the park. 

Day 27 – Etosha to Khorixas

This morning, we set off from Etosha National Park.  After a final morning of exploration as we exit the park, we’ll leave the park and head towards Khorixas in our Nomad Truck. Along the route, we’ll stop by the Petrified Forest, a national monument featuring fossilized prehistoric tree trunks. These remnants were once massive trees carried down by a river and ultimately trapped in alluvial sands, thus becoming a fascinating piece of the past. Our final destination of the day is the enchanting Twyfelfontein Rock Engravings in the Kunene Region, where a local guide will escort us. This area, which was inhabited by the Khoi San for 6000 years, features one of the highest concentrations of rock petroglyphs in Africa. The ancient inhabitants used this site for shamanist rituals, resulting in the creation of 2500 rock paintings. After a full day of exploration, we’ll end our day in Khorixas.

Day 28 – Khorixas to Swakopmund

Today we depart Khorixas to where the hot desert sands meet the cool waves of the Atlantic. On our way, we’ll make a stop at the renowned Seal Colony at Cape Cross, one of the largest of its kind in the world. Here, more than 200,000 Cape Fur Seals can be seen hugging the shore. The spot is also of historical significance as it marks the area where the first European explorer set foot on the Namibian coast in 1486. Diego Cao erected a cross here in honour of the king of Portugal at that time. (Please note that sometimes Cape Cross Colony may be inaccessible, which would prevent us from visiting the seals.) Our journey continues with a visit to the Lichen Fields. Your guide will give a captivating talk about the intricate Lichen Colonies that blanket the area. It’s an exceptional opportunity for some unforgettable photographs. Our final stop before reaching Swakopmund is the seaside holiday town of Wlotskasbaken. This charming town offers a fantastic photo opportunity with its quaint houses and scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean. After capturing these memories, we’ll complete the final leg of our trip and arrive in the beautiful coastal city of Swakopmund, ending an exciting day of exploration.

Day 29 –Swakopmund

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.

Day 30 – Swakopmund to Sesriem

Leaving behind the charms of Swakopmund we continue our journey to Southern Namibia and the Namib Desert. While bidding a reluctant farewell to the ocean, we make a stop to commemorate our crossing of the Tropic of Capricorn this morning before turning east towards the heart of the

desert. This afternoon, we have the privilege of joining a local expert for an enlightening desert excursion. Our local guide will introduce us to the wonders of the desert environment – an amazing introduction to the Namib that is sure to get all your senses ready for the next few days. An early night is advisable as tomorrow will see us up as the dawn breaks, but tonight we spend the night under the magnificent desert stars, knowing that the next day holds more adventures among the red sand dunes.

Day 31 – Sossusvlei Dunes – Namib-Naukluft National Park

Today we will rise early for our drive to the Namib-Naukluft National Park.  We will enter the park just after sunrise and travel through to the famous Dune 45. A brisk climb up Dune 45 offers us the perfect vantage point to marvel at the changing colours of the desert. Once satisfied we descend this famous dune and enjoy a hearty breakfast before catching a 4×4 transfer into Sossusvlei, here we will spend time on foot visiting the pans at Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. Tonight we camp on the doorstep of the dune fields, we’ll empty the red sand from our shoes and fall asleep to the unique calls of the elusive Barking Gecko.

Day 32 – Keetmanshoop

We will have a leisurely morning before we pack up and turn east and head for Keetmanshoop.  Today we spend most of the day driving onto our next destination. 

Day 33 – Giants Playground/Quiver Tree Forest and Fish River Canyon

Contrary to belief, the quiver tree is not really a tree, but a plant that can grow to between 200 – 300 years old.  Our exploration continues this morning with a visit to the Quiver Tree Forest and Giants Playgrounds, named for the way in which the massive dolerite boulders have been placed on each other- creating rock formations and a series of mazes. We board the truck and travel south on the gravel byways of Southern Namibia on route to Ais-Ais. Famed for its hot springs the resort and its hot pools are the perfect tonic to ease away the dust of the Namib. The Fish River Canyon is one of the largest in the world and this afternoon we take a walk along the rim of the canyon and end our day with a memorable sunset on the canyon edge.

Day 34 – Orange River

As dawn breaks we head out making our way to the Orange River and our final stop in Namibia. Our last night in Namibia is spent on the banks of the Orange River and the best way to experience the Orange River is by canoe. This afternoon you will have the opportunity to partake in an optional canoe trip on the river.

Day 35 – Orange River – Cederberg

A final border crossing sees us enter South Africa this morning as we travel through the desert landscapes of Namaqualand on our way to the Cederberg region. 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.  Tonight we enjoy a traditional meal and celebrate the many memories we have made.

Day 36 – Cederberg – Cape Town

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 Cederberg region is known for its mountain fynbos and spectacular views of the rugged Cedarberg Mountains. Nearing Cape Town, you will notice Table Mountain appear in the distance and we will stop to look at Table Mountain from across Table Bay.  Your tour ends upon arrival in Cape Town city centre.