Best of Africa - South  

  Duration57 Days

Please note: This itinerary is flexible and can be changed without notice. A detailed, up-to-date dossier itinerary is available to download. Be aware it can also be changed without notice in order to accommodate the best possible viewing of the Mountain Gorillas. The Permit price to visit the Gorillas can also change without notice. 

Day 1 – Masai Mara National Reserve 

We leave the capital of Nairobi and travel to the Masai Mara, world renowned for its endless plains of wild animals and spectacular beauty.  The visit to the Masai Mara is operated in safari type vehicles and not the Nomad truck. For this reason, you are asked to pack a small overnight bag to travel with. You will need your towel, clothes, toiletries and camping essentials. 

Day 2 – Masai Mara National Reserve 

The rolling grasslands of the Masai Mara offer ideal game viewing and photographic opportunities. Some of the animals that could be found here include elephant, black rhino, buffalo, leopard, cheetah, wildebeest, zebra and gazelle. Hippo and crocodile abound in the muddy brown waters of the rivers, which traverse this reserve. Today we will spend the entire day game driving through the Mara in search of all the animals. 

Day 3 – Lake Nakuru National Park 

This morning we bid the Mara farewell before heading to Lake Nakuru National Park where we will enjoy an afternoon game drive through the park. Lake Nakuru is home to large flocks of flamingos and pelicans as well as black & white rhino, leopard, lion and numerous buck. Originally created as a bird sanctuary, Lake Nakuru was upgraded to National Park status in 1968. 

Day 4 – Jinja 

This morning we cross the border into Uganda and make our our way to Jinja. Jinja is Uganda’s second largest city and most famous as the point where the Nile (officially the Victoria Nile) flows out of Lake Victoria and begins the 6695 kilometre journey to Egypt and the Mediterranean.  

Day 5 – Masindi – Murchison Falls National Park 

After a quick stop in the city of Kampala, we head in the direction of The Murchison Falls National Park.   Also referred to as the Kabaraga Falls, Murchison Falls is a waterfall found on the course of the great Nile and is located within the Murchison National Park. The park is recognized as one of the best National Parks in Uganda. After settling into our accommodation in Masindi, your guide will brief you on the activities for the following day.  

Day 6 – Masindi – Budongo Central Forest Reserve 

Budongo Forest is the biggest Mahogany forest found in the whole of East Africa and is home to the largest number of chimpanzees throughout Uganda. It is believed that there are between 600 – 700 chimpanzees in Budongo and this morning we will meet up with our chimp guide who will take us on our trek through the forest in search of the chimps.  We will also enjoy a boat cruise in the park. Note: As the Chimp trekking is limited  

to 12 guests per trek, should there be more than 12 guests on a tour the trekking will be split between the morning and the afternoon. Therefore you may find that you will first do the game drive activity followed by the Chimp trekking or vice versa. Please allow for flexibility. 

Day 7 – Lake Kikorongo 

This morning we depart Masindi and transfer towards the edges of the Queen Elizabeth National Park.  Our accommodation for the night is nestled atop a hill overlooking Lake Kikorongo.   

Day 8 – Gorillas (Lake Bunyonyi) 

Crossing the Equator once more we travel south to the beautiful scenery of Lake Bunyonyi. With eager anticipation we prepare for the upcoming Gorilla trekking excursion and tonight we will receive a briefing on what to expect.  

Day 9 – Gorillas (Lake Bunyonyi) 

The mountain gorilla is extremely endangered and while exact numbers vary it is widely assumed that there are only around 650 left. Visiting the gorillas is a great way to support their future on earth as the money spent on permits is used for their protection. An extremely important part of the future conservation of the remaining gorillas rests in the community development work – as local communities change their attitudes towards wildlife and start to protect rather than poach, the future of the mountain gorilla is assured. 

As permits granting permission to visit the gorillas are extremely limited we require flexibility in both the tour itinerary and where we actually visit them. The home of the mountain gorillas is completely at odds with man-made borders and so their range encompasses Uganda, Rwanda and the DRC (Democratic Republic of the Congo). Whenever possible we choose to make use of the National Park in Uganda, but this depends on the availability of permits. Should we not obtain permits to visit the mountain gorillas in Uganda then we will inform all passengers beforehand that the tour will travel to Rwanda or DRC. 

On your free day in Bunyonyi you will have the opportunity to participate in certain optional activities. You can also go hiking or explore the area on a mountain bike. 

Day 10 – Gorillas (Lake Bunyonyi) 

Although there are 2 days allocated to Gorilla Trekking you will only spend one day on the trek. The other days are there to provide a large enough window in which to obtain permits and to allow the entire group to trek if there are more than 6 of you on the tour.   

Day 11 – Lake Mburo 

We depart the beautiful Lake Bunyonyi for another of Uganda’s beautiful water bodies – Lake Mburo. Lake Mburo is situated in the Ankole sub-region of Uganda, near the town of Mbarara, and spans an area of approximately 260 square kilometers and is surrounded by rolling hills, open grasslands, and patches of woodland. With over 350 recorded bird species, Lake Mburo National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers. The park’s diverse ecosystems, which include acacia woodlands, savannahs, and wetlands, provide optimal habitats for numerous bird species, including the rare and odd looking shoebill stork. 

Day 12 – Jinja 

This morning we leave the Ankole region and set off on our return journey to Jinja. Jinja offers many exciting optional activities which are focussed around the waters of the Nile and these include rafting, kayaking and a variety of cruises on Africa’s largest river.  While those who may be less inclined to water sports can enjoy horse riding or a quadbike adventure on dry land.  

Day 13 – Jinja 

Jinja offers many optional activities for the adventurous and for the not so adventurous. Today you’ll have at your leisure, and your guide will assist you to plan for this day. 

Day 14 – Kenya – Eldoret 

Returning to Kenya we visit Eldoret, the country’s 5th largest city. The Great Rift Valley is still the dominant geographical feature of this region and the altitude at Eldoret is 2100 metres above sea level. 

Day 15 – Nairobi 

Returning to Nairobi this afternoon we reflect on many memories that we have gathered together and brace ourselves for a return to the busy streets of Nairobi where we will overnight before continuing into Tanzania.  

The Itinerary is flexible and can be changed without notice in order to accommodate the best possible viewing of the Mountain Gorillas. The Permit price to visit the Gorillas can also change without notice. 

Day 16 – Nairobi – Arusha  

Leaving behind the bustle of Nairobi we travel south to the Tanzanian border. After completing border formalities we continue to the busy town of Arusha, our base for the night. Northern Tanzania is home to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Kilimanjaro.  

Day 17 – Serengeti National Park (Seronera)  

We are collected this morning in safari style vehicles and depart Arusha early, heading directly towards the Serengeti National Park.  In the afternoon, we will arrive at our camp in the Seronera region located in the heart of the Serengeti.  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 18 – Serengeti National Park (Seronera) 

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 19 – Ngorongoro Crater – Karatu 

We spend the morning commuting towards Ngorongoro Crater where we will enter the conservation area and explore the crater floor in search of the animals which roam the plains. After our exploration, we exist the crater and make the short journey to Karatu where we will overnight.  

Day 20 – Arusha 

Soon after our departure from 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 links the Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater Conversation Area with Arusha.   Returning to Arusha, we spend the night reminiscing about our experiences of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.   

Day 21 – Bagamoyo 

We head out early this morning as we journey south to our overnight stop in the coastal town of Bagamoyo. Formerly a centre point of the East African slave trade, Bagamoyo lies just north of the port of Dar es Salaam. While today is primarily a travel day, we experience the hustle and bustle of one of Africa’s major travel routes. Road travel in Africa is an experience in itself and the bustling markets, villages and scenic backdrops that line the routes give a window into the lifestyle of rural Africa. This evening we will prepare for our Zanzibar excursion that begins tomorrow morning. 

Day 22 – Zanzibar Beaches 

We depart Bagamoyo and head towards Dar es Salaam and the ferry port to catch the ferry to Zanzibar Island. After arriving 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. 

Day 23 – 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 24 – 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 25 – 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 26 – Mikumi 

Leaving the coast behind us we travel inland and make our way to Mikumi where we stop for the next 2 nights. 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 27 – Mikumi 

Today you will have the opportunity to book additional safaris in Mikumi National Park or embark on a variety of cultural tours. 

Day 28 – 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 29 – 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 30 – 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 31 – 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 32 – 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 33 – 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 34 – 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 35 – 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 36 – Lusaka 

As an important link between Lusaka and neighbouring Malawi, the Great East Road winds through rural Zambia and we will cross the Luangwa River on our way to Lusaka. The route today is dotted with villages and subsistence farms and the landscapes serve as a stark contrast to the developed countries, so many of us call home. 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. 

Day 37 – 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 38 – 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 39 – 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 40 – 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 41 – 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. (Please note:  It is possible that the mokoro activity could take place the following morning, depending on the season). 

Day 42 – 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 43 – 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 44 – 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 45 – 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 enter the park and travel the to our overnight rest camp for the night.  

Day 46 – 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 will have the afternoon at leisure. 

Day 47 – 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 48 – 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 49 – Khorixas to Swakopmund

Today we depart Khorixas to where the hot desert sands meet the cool waves of the Atlantic. On our journey we stop to visit 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 50 –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 51 – 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 52 – 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 53 – Namib-Naukluft National Park Area

Today is put aside for you to relax and recharge while taking in the landscapes of the desert.  Optional activities such as self-guided walks from camp are available. 

Day 54 – Keetmanshoop

This morning we pack up and turn east and head for Keetmanshoop.  Every overland journey has some long travelling days and today is one of those as we spend most of the day driving onto our next destination.  Our exploration of the desert concludes this afternoon 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. Contrary to belief, the quiver tree is not really a tree, but a plant that can grow to between 200 – 300 years old. 

Day 55 – Fish River Canyon – Orange River

The Fish River Canyon is the longest river in Namibia and the largest Canyon in Africa.  We will drive to the rim of the Fish River Canyon and have an opportunity to stretch our legs with a gentle walk along the rim of the canyon, before we head further south and make our way to the Orange River, 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 56 – 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 57 – 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.