Cape Town to Kilimanjaro: 41 Day Adventure Tour (Camping)

Day 1. Cape Town, South Africa to Cederberg Area Highlights. Cederberg, South Africa. Township Tour Cape Town, South Africa.

Our adventure begins with a township tour in the Cape Flats to gain insight of life through and after the apartheid. We then head up the West Coast to the Cederberg area where we spend our first night under the African sky.

3 images Cederberg, South Africa

3 images Township Tour Cape Town, South Africa

Day 2. Cederberg Area to Gariep (Orange) River, Namibia Highlights. Orange (Gariep) River, Namibia.

Heading further north we travel through the Karoo of the Northern Cape and cross the Namibian border to the Gariep (Orange) River.

Enjoy the wide open spaces and startling scenic beauty of the Richtersveld.

3 images Orange (Gariep) River, Namibia

Day 3. Gariep (Orange) River to Fish River Canyon Highlights. Fish River Canyon, Namibia.

This morning you have the option of enjoying a canoe trip on the Orange River to explore deeper into the Richtersveld area. Thereafter we continue to the breathtaking Fish River Canyon.

Enjoy the majestic views across the Canyon with the late afternoon light as it reflects on the different rock layers.

3 images Fish River Canyon, Namibia

Day 4. Fish River Canyon to Sesriem Area Highlights. Namib Naukluft Park, Namibia. Tsaris Pass, Namibia.

Travelling further into Namibia we continue along the dirt-roads and over the Tsaris Pass to the Namib Naukluft area where we spend our next night in preparation for our visit to Sesriem and Sossusvlei tomorrow.

3 images Namib Naukluft Park, Namibia

Day 5. Sesriem Area to Sossus On Foot Camp, Khomas Region Highlights. Dune 45, Namib Naukluft National Park, Namibia. Sesriem Canyon, Namibia. Sossusvlei, Namibia.

This morning we rise early and head to the dune-scape of the Namib Naukluft National Park. We stop off at the majestic Dune 45 where we have the chance to scamper up the dune and see the surrounding 'sand-sea' from above. Then continue on to the Deadvlei for a guided walk of this eerie area. We finish off with a trip to the Sesriem Canyon to see what lies under these giant red dunes.

Tonight we sleep under the desert stars in the Khomas region on a local farm.

3 images Dune 45, Namib Naukluft National Park, Namibia

3 images Sesriem Canyon, Namibia

3 images Sossusvlei, Namibia

Day 6. Sossus On Foot Camp, Khomas Region to Swakopmund Highlights. The Tropic of Capricorn.

Journeying west we head to the Atlantic seaboard this morning, first crossing the Tropic of Capricorn and then driving down the Kuiseb Pass before hitting the flat coastal plateau.

As we near the ocean we'll see the dunes rise from the flat plateau. Swakopmund is located at the end of the dunes and offers many activities that allow you to go into, onto and over the dunes. Enjoy these on your leisure day tomorrow.

3 images The Tropic of Capricorn

Day 7. Swakopmund Highlights. Swakopmund, Namibia.

Today is free to enjoy the town's many shops and cafes or head out in search of adventure - quad bike the dunes, tandem skydive over, or grab a board and slide down - there's loads of adrenaline action here.

For those seeking water there are fishing tours and seal boat rides to enjoy. Alternatively visit one of the museums or historic monuments in the town itself.

3 images Swakopmund, Namibia

Day 8. Swakopmund to Spitzkoppe Highlights. Spitzkoppe, Namibia.

Heading back inland we drive to Spitzkoppe located on a flat coastal plateau. Rising out of the horizon, you'll be amazed at these large granite boulder-like mountains - it's no wonder they were considered sacred by the San bushmen.

We explore the overhangs with a local guide who tells us about the interesting rock-drawings and depictions found here. Tonight we have the great opportunity to spend the night out under the stars for a real African experience.

3 images Spitzkoppe, Namibia

Day 9. Spitzkoppe to Etosha National Park

Departing the magical boulder-mountains of the Spitzkoppe we drive north to the famed Etosha National Park.

On entering the park we game drive in search of the resident wildlife while we make our way into the camp where we overnight. Each camp has a waterhole which can be viewed throughout the night to see which animals wander in to quench their thirst.

Day 10. Etosha National Park Highlights. Etosha National Park, Namibia.

This morning we rise early and head out in search of the predators we may have heard overnight. Each camp is fenced so we drive out as they open the gates at sunrise and keep our eyes pealed.

Despite the dry nature of the terrain, the park sustains a wide variety mammals and bird species including the large Kori Bustard, Secretary Bird and many other seed & insect eaters, as well as birds of prey. We hope to spot some of these while spotting the springbok, oryx and other mammals today.

3 images Etosha National Park, Namibia

Day 11. Etosha National Park to Windhoek Highlights. Windhoek, Namibia.

Passing through some of the farming towns on our way to Windhoek we catch a glimpse of the everyday life of the local Namibians.

Windhoek is Namibia's Capital and is home to the largest part of its population. The group often enjoys a meal together while in Windhoek at the legendary Joe's Beerhouse.

Day 12. Windhoek to Omaheke Region Highlights. Kalahari Bushman Walk, Omaheke Region, Namibia.

From the Namibian Capital, we head east to Gobabis and onward to our camp for the night situated 20km from the Botswana border.

Get acquainted with Kalahari Bushmen on a nature walk. Learn about how these keen hunters and gatherers have survived throughout the ages in the harsh desert conditions.

3 images Kalahari Bushman Walk, Omaheke Region, Namibia

Day 13. Omaheke Region to Maun, Botswana Highlights. Maun, Botswana.

This morning we cross into Botswana and on to the gateway to the Okavango Delta at Maun. This small frontier town has long been the starting point for many an adventurer into the watery wilderness beyond.

We stock up on supplies in preparation for our excursion into the Delta tomorrow and then head to camp for a swim, game of volleyball or simply to sit back and relax.

3 images Maun, Botswana

Day 14. Maun to Okavango Delta Highlights. Okavango Delta, Botswana.

Piling into our 4x4 transfer, we load up our gear and start winding our way across the sandy terrain and on to the poling station at the water's edge. It is here that we meet up with our resident guides who will take us out on their mokoros and to our camp in the wild.

Travelling in a mokoro is a unique experience - a little wobbly at first, but you'll soon settle into the gentle rocking and start to enjoy the scenic beauty of the delta.

This afternoon as the day cools we head off on a nature walk to explore the surrounds.

5 images Okavango Delta, Botswana

Day 15. Okavango Delta to Maun

We rise with the sun and head out again on foot in search of any game that may have wandered into our area overnight.

After our walk we pack up camp and head back to our dug-out canoes. Depending on water levels within the Delta, we may see more on foot than from the mokoros along the way. We bid our polers farewell and head back to our Acacia vehicle at Maun with an afternoon option to take a scenic flight over the falls to see the channels from above.

Day 16. Maun to Nata Highlights. Elephant Sands, Nata, Botswana.

Nata is a small town at the main intersection of the north-south and eastern roads in Botswana. Small as it may be, it is also located on the edge of the great salt pans and in the rain season an abundance of birdlife can be seen in the area.

We overnight at our camp in an open wildlife area with a lovely waterhole that often hosts elephants who migrate through this region. With some luck we may see these majestic animals during our stay.

3 images Elephant Sands, Nata, Botswana

Day 17. Nata to Kasane Highlights. Chobe Fish Eagle Cruise, Botswana. Chobe National Park, Botswana.

Heading north we journey through the vast mopane woodlands as we make our way to Kasane on the outskirts of the Chobe National Park.

It is from here that we explore the lifeblood of the park - the Chobe River. Boarding the Fish Eagle Cruise this afternoon, we glide along the water to see the animals as they wander down to the water to drink and play. The birdlife is also spectacular with a wide variety of species that can be seen while out on the water.

3 images Chobe Fish Eagle Cruise, Botswana

3 images Chobe National Park, Botswana

Day 18. Kasane to Livingstone, Zambia Highlights. Chobe National Park Game Drive, Botswana. Victoria Falls - Mosi oa Tunya National Park, Zambia.

This morning we head out to explore the Chobe National Park on an open vehicle game drive where we have the opportunity to spot not only elephant that are so prolific in the park, but also lion, and different antelope species. Moving on from Kasane we take the ferry across the confluence of the Chobe and Zambezi Rivers into Zambia and continue to our camp at Livingstone.

Our camp is located on the banks of the Zambezi with a lovely viewing deck out over the river. We enjoy a trip to the Mosi oa Tunya National Park where we can see the Victoria Falls in all their splendour.

3 images Chobe National Park Game Drive, Botswana

3 images Victoria Falls - Mosi oa Tunya National Park, Zambia

Day 19-20. Livingstone Highlights. Livingstone Activities, Zambia.

We spend the next days enjoying some free time to explore the surrounds and the many activities on offer.

Jump off a bridge, fly like an eagle over the falls or submerse yourself in the Zambezi on a white water rafting trip - there's loads to get the adrenaline pumping.

For the more quiet at heart there are scenic tours of the local villages and of course shopping at the local markets to get that perfect souvenir.

3 images Livingstone Activities, Zambia

Day 21. Livingstone to Lusaka Highlights. Lusaka, Zambia.

We leave the tranquility of Livingstone and head for Zambia's Capital - Lusaka. Lusaka is Southern Africa’s fastest growing city with approx 1.7 million people and is located on the southern plateau at an elevation of 1300m with four main highways running north, south, east and west to different parts of Africa.

Day 22. Lusaka to Petauke

We leave early and take the Great East Road, linking Zambia with neighbour Malawi. We drive through lush countryside and small villages, crossing the Luangwa River before reaching our accommodation situated 5km from Petauke.

Day 23. Petauke to South Luangwa National Park

One of the greatest wildlife reserves in Africa, the magnificent South Luangwa National Park is home to an abundance of wildlife and birdlife and the birthplace of the walking safari.

Our afternoon is free to enjoy some of the optional excursions like game walks or sunset game drives to explore the surrounds. Tonight we rest with the sounds of the African wilderness to lull us to sleep.

Day 24. South Luangwa National Park to Chipata Highlights. South Luangwa National Park.

We head out this morning to explore on a guided game drive with the resident guide to lead the way.

There are 60 different animal species and over 400 different bird species inhabiting the area. Hippo’s, elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, giraffe with many other species flourish in the 20,000 sq. miles of savannah woodland watered by this 500 mile–long river. The river itself is the most intact and unaltered major river system in Africa and covers 9059 km2.

Following our game drive we head to Chipata for the night.

3 images South Luangwa National Park

Day 25. Chipata to Kande Beach, Malawi Highlights. Lake Malawi, Malawi.

We pass through the textile villages on our way out of the South Luangwa area and continue to the border, where after border formalities, we cross into the warm heart of Africa - Malawi.

Moving on, we make our way to the picturesque Lake Malawi where we spend the next two nights enjoying the warm waters and sandy beaches.

3 images Lake Malawi, Malawi

Day 26. Kande Beach Highlights. Kande Beach Activities, Malawi.

Waking to the soft sound of the water lapping the sandy beach, we have the day free to explore, go on adventures or simply relax.

The underwater world of Lake Malawi is a fascinating one with a variety of freshwater tropical fish to explore. Grab some flippers and a snorkel or hire a pedalo. Take a walk through the village and meet some of the locals or learn to play the local game Bao at the wood-craft stalls - plenty to see and do at this little haven on the beach.

3 images Kande Beach Activities, Malawi

Day 27. Kande Beach to Chitimba Beach Highlights. Chitimba Beach.

Travelling further along the lake we make our way via the forests of rubber trees on to the town of Mzuzu to the north of Malawi. After stocking up on supplies and exploring the local market, we continue along the higher plateau and on to the northern part of the lake where we spend the next two nights at Chitimba Beach.

3 images Chitimba Beach

Day 28. Chitimba Beach to Iringa, Tanzania

Leaving the smiling faces of the local Malawians behind, we head on up the to the higher lying ground and cross into Tanzania. As we make our way up into the Tanzanian highlands we pass through some small villages and find our way to Iringa where we spend our first night in the country.

Our camp is on a working farm with lovely tranquil setting.

Day 29. Iringa to Mikumi National Park area Highlights. Mikumi National Park, Tanzania.

Departing the fresh air and captivating views over the Southern Highlands, we head east to the Mikumi National Park. At 3230 sq. km, Mikumi is the 4th largest National Park in Tanzania and hosts buffaloes, elephants lions, numerous antelope species and the endangered wild dogs.

Our campsite is situated a stone throw from the park gates and it's here if time allows, to join an optional open 4x4 safari inside the national park.

3 images Mikumi National Park, Tanzania

Day 30. Mikumi National Park area to Dar es Salaam Highlights. Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Driving further east via the Mikumi National Park, we make our way to Dar es Salaam. As we near the coast you'll see traffic increase, and the villages start to melt into one another with many shopfronts with their quirky signage to enjoy.

Our camp is situated to the south of the city on a stretch of beach giving us our first glimpse of the Indian Ocean.

3 images Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Day 31. Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar Highlights. Stone Town, Zanzibar, Tanzania. Zanzibar, Tanzania.

We leave our Acacia vehicle at camp and make our way to the busy ferry terminal where we board our ferry to the spice island - Zanzibar.

Time over the next days is spent at leisure to explore the island and its many sights, tastes and sounds. The group generally spends one night at Stone Town and the remaining nights at the northern beaches.

3 images Stone Town, Zanzibar, Tanzania

3 images Zanzibar, Tanzania

Day 32-34. Zanzibar Highlights. Zanzibar, Northern Beaches, Tanzania.

Whether you're spending your time enjoying the powdery white beaches, swimming in the azure waters, scuba diving the colourful reefs, or tasting your way through the delicious island cuisine - Zanzibar is truly a dream destination.

3 images Zanzibar, Northern Beaches, Tanzania

Day 35. Zanzibar to Bagamoyo Highlights. Bagamoyo, Tanzania.

Packing our bags and squeezing in a last bit of shopping in Stone Town, we board the ferry and head back to our Acacia vehicle on the mainland.

Tonight we spend our last night on the warm beach washed by the Indian Ocean.

3 images Bagamoyo, Tanzania

Day 36. Bagamoyo to Marangu Highlights. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. Marangu, Moshi Area, Tanzania.

We head north past the Usambara Mountains, winding our way through the farming villages along the way. This afternoon as we near the mighty Kilimanjaro we hope to catch a glimpse of the summit as we drive toward the base of Africa's highest peak, and our camp at Marangu.

3 images Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

3 images Marangu, Moshi Area, Tanzania

Day 37. Marangu to Arusha Highlights. Maasai Culture Village Walk, Arusha, Tanzania. Meserani Snake Park, Tanzania.

Winding our way along Kilimanjaro's base, we first drive through the bustling town of Moshi with its bikes, matatus and foot-traffic and then make our way to Arusha - Tanzania's safari capital.

Located amidst the coffee plantations at the base of Mount Meru, Arusha has long been the starting point for many a safari into the surrounding National Parks. The most highly sought is of course the Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater, but you'll also find Tarangire, Lake Manyara and a handful of private reserves in the area making Arusha a true Safari Capital.

3 images Maasai Culture Village Walk, Arusha, Tanzania

3 images Meserani Snake Park, Tanzania

Day 38. Arusha to Serengeti National Park Highlights. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania.

Shifting our gear over into the smaller safari vehicles, we meet our resident guides and hit the road to the Serengeti.

Passing up the Rift Valley you'll get a magnificent view of the nearby Lake Manyara and perhaps see the wildlife dotted around its shores. Then it's on through the farming town of Karatu before entering the Ngorongoro Conservation Area which we transit through to reach the great plains.

This afternoon we enter the Serengeti and game drive across the savannah in search of the resident wildlife. The Great Migration can be spotted throughout the year in different parts of the Park dependent on rainfall and their migratory movements. Keep your eyes open so you can spot the predators who follow in their wake!

3 images Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Day 39. Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater

Rising with the dawn, we head out as soon as it's light to search predators that may still be actively hunting now. After our drive, it's back to camp where we pack up and head back out via the open savannah plains to the Ngorongoro Crater.

Tonight we spend the night on the 2400m high crater rim with views down into the caldera below - it's no wonder this is a World Heritage Site.

Day 40. Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha Highlights. Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania.

This morning we enjoy a quick breakfast and then head out to explore! Winding our way down the steep crater road to the base 600m below, we'll begin to see the herds below. We spend the morning crisscrossing the caldera which is home to an abundance of wildlife owing to the rich fertile soil and varied habitats.

This afternoon we make our way back to our Acacia vehicle at Arusha and spend the night delighting our driver with the tales of wilds we've enjoyed.

3 images Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

Day 41. Arusha to Nairobi, Kenya

We make our way on our last journey today crossing the border into Kenya. After border formalities, we continue on to the Capital city Nairobi where our adventure safari tour ends on arrival.