Best of Africa – North – Classic Accommodated

Leaving Cape Town make a last stop for a look back at Table Mountain from across Table Bay. No road trip is complete without a stop at a traditional padstal, where homemade treats and local produce can be sampled. 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 Cederberg, this herbal beverage has earned an international reputation as a healthy and refreshing alternative to regular tea. (D)

Namaqualand presents you with your first experience of the Desert vistas that will accompany us in the days ahead. Continue your journey north and after a short stop for supplies in Springbok, travel to your camp on the banks of the Orange River. 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. (BLD)

While the Orange River was originally named after the Dutch Royal House, it is also known by its indigenous Khoekhoe name, Gariep, meaning "river". Depart the Orange River and travel inland through southern Namibia to the Fish River Canyon, the largest canyon in Africa. Take a walk along the canyon rim to enjoy views of this impressive natural landmark before continuing to Keetmanshoop for your overnight stay. (BLD)
Included Highlight: Scenic walk along the rim of Fish River Canyon.

Begin the day exploring the Quiver Tree Forest and Giant's Playground, where large dolerite boulders have been naturally stacked to create unusual rock formations and mazes. Continue west through the vast landscapes of southern Namibia, travelling across remote farmlands and open desert scenery. As you venture deeper into the Namib Desert, the changing landscapes gradually give way to the red dune fields of the Namib-Naukluft National Park, showcasing the diverse scenery for which Namibia is known. (BLD)
Included Highlights: Quiver Tree Forest and Giants Playground.

An early start allows you to enter the Namib-Naukluft National Park shortly after sunrise. Climb Dune 45, visit Sossusvlei and Deadvlei, and conclude the day with a visit to Sesriem Canyon. Tonight empty the red sand from your shoes and spend the night under the magnificent desert stars, knowing that you have spent a full-day enjoying the wonders of this harsh land. (BLD)
Included Highlight: Dune 45, Sossusvlei, Deadvlei and Sesriem Canyon.

Your final day in the desert begins with a guided excursion led by a local expert before travelling via the Tropic of Capricorn to the coastal town of Swakopmund. Enjoy a brief stop at the Walvis Bay lagoon, where you hope to catch a glimpse of the flamingo’s that feed in the shallows. Arriving in Swakopmund you will have the opportunity to book some of the many adventures on offer (at additional cost). (BL)
Included Highlights: Guided desert walk with local expert, Tropic of Capricorn.

Today travel inland to Spitzkoppe, known as the Matterhorn of Namibia. Explore ancient San rock art, dramatic granite formations and panoramic desert scenery. Return to Swakopmund in the afternoon for an evening at leisure. (BLD)
Included Highlight: Spitzkoppe excursion with your Nomad guide.

Enjoy a free day to explore Swakopmund at leisure, with optional activities including quad biking, dolphin cruises, Living Dunes tours and Sandwich Harbour excursions. (B)

Today is a long day as you venture away from the coast and inland. With vast salt pans, savanna and woodland, Etosha is one of Africa's finest game parks. At 18,000 square kilometres, it is one of the largest parks in Southern Africa. Etosha means "great white area", referring to the vast dried pan at the heart of the park. (BLD)

Etosha allows for a full day of game viewing as you explore the park and its wildlife. No day on safari is ever the same, and the anticipation of each sighting adds to the experience. (BLD)
Included Highlight: Full-day game drive in the Nomad truck.

This morning is free to relax around camp. After lunch, board the truck and head into Etosha National Park for an afternoon game drive as you make your way toward your next overnight stop. (BLD)
Included Highlight: Afternoon game drive in Etosha National Park.

Leave the white sands of Etosha behind and journey toward the Kavango River, entering the vast Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area. Spanning five countries, this important conservation region supports diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. Your overnight stop is in Divundu on the banks of the Kavango River. (BLD)

This morning enjoy a leisurely boat cruise along the Kavango River, taking in the scenery, birdlife and wildlife along the riverbanks. Later there is an opportunity to join an optional game drive (at an additional cost) in the Mahango Core Area of Bwabwata National Park, renowned for elephants, buffalo, antelope and predators. (BLD)
Included Highlight: Morning Kavango River boat cruise.

Crossing into Botswana, travel to Maun, the gateway to the Okavango Delta. After arriving, there is time to relax and prepare for your upcoming Delta excursion. (BL)

Today you will be separated from the Nomad truck for the next two nights, so please pack only the essentials. This morning offers the opportunity to enjoy an optional scenic flight over the Okavango Delta. Afterwards, travel by safari vehicle into the Khwai Conservation Area and prepare for a mokoro excursion into the Delta. (BLD)
Included Highlight: Sunset mokoro excursion (season permitting).

Today is dedicated to a full-day safari in the renowned Moremi Game Reserve with a lunch break at camp. Travelling by 4x4 safari vehicle, explore a variety of habitats ranging from floodplains and waterways to woodlands and open grasslands while searching for the area's spectacular wildlife. (BLD)
Included Highlight: Full-day game drive in Moremi Game Reserve.

Departing early, travel from Khwai back through Maun before continuing east toward Nata. Along the way pass the great salt pan regions of Botswana, landscapes that showcase the country's unique natural beauty. (BLD)
Included Highlight: Salt Pans viewpoint (seasonal access dependent).

Today travel north to Kasane, arriving in time for lunch and a siesta before joining a relaxing afternoon boat cruise on the Chobe River. The cruise provides excellent opportunities to view elephants, hippos, crocodiles and a variety of birdlife. (BLD)
Included Highlight: Chobe National Park boat cruise.

Crossing into Zimbabwe, travel the short distance to Victoria Falls. Spend the day exploring one of the world's most spectacular natural wonders or participate in a variety of optional adventure activities. This evening, those interested may join an optional group dinner at a local restaurant. (BL)
 

Today is free to enjoy the many activities available in Victoria Falls and Livingstone. Whether you choose a scenic flight, a visit to the falls, a river cruise or simply time at leisure, the day is yours to enjoy. As your tour continues from Livingstone tomorrow, accommodation has been arranged there for tonight. You are welcome to spend the day in Victoria Falls before transferring to Livingstone later in the afternoon, with the cross-border transfer included as part of your tour. (B)
 

Setting off early from the Zambian side of Victoria Falls, catch a last sighting of the mighty falls before heading off on a long travel day. Colourful markets, busy villages and rural scenes form the backdrop of our journey through Zambia. Enjoy a prepared meal on arrival as your guides brief you on the days ahead. (BLD)

This morning drive through Lusaka before turning east towards Petauke. As an important link between Lusaka and neighbouring Malawi, the Great East Road winds through rural Zambia and crosses the mighty Luangwa River. Villages and subsistence farms line the route, offering insight into everyday life in Zambia. (BLD)

Look forward to the tranquillity of South Luangwa and as you make your way to the banks of the Luangwa River. Along the way stop at Mulberry Mongoose to view locally handcrafted jewellery and curios made from sustainable materials sourced from the African bush. As the sun sets over the Luangwa River, enjoy one of Zambia’s most memorable safari settings. (BLD)
Included Highlight: Mulberry Mongoose Curio Visit.

South Luangwa National Park is a world-class safari destination. This morning you may join an optional morning safari or seasonal walking safari. Later, enjoy an included sunset game drive featuring a sundowner stop and the opportunity to continue after dark in search of nocturnal wildlife. (BLD)
Included Highlight: Sunset Game Drive in South Luangwa National Park.

Today you will leave Zambia and head into Malawi, known as the Warm Heart of Africa. Your destination is the shores of Lake Malawi, one of the largest and most biodiverse freshwater lakes in the world. Spend the evening relaxing beside this vast natural wonder. (BLD)

Today is dedicated to relaxation at Lake Malawi. Spend your time swimming, reading, kayaking or simply enjoying the beach. An optional guided hike to Dwanbazi Waterfall offers spectacular views and an opportunity to swim in natural pools. (BLD)

Today continue north along the shores of Lake Malawi. Travelling through lakeside villages and scenic countryside, you arrive at your next overnight stop beside the lake. Enjoy sunset views across the water before dinner. (BLD)

We depart Malawi and continue north into Tanzania, heading to Utengule Coffee Lodge. Set amongst rolling hills and coffee plantations, this peaceful location provides a welcome stop on our journey through East Africa. (BLD)

Before heading to Iringa, you will make a stop at a local coffee plantation where you have the opportunity to see the process of growing and harvesting coffee beans and will be able to sample some of the beans. You then ascend the Great Rift Valley and make your way into Tanzania. (BLD)
Included Highlight: Morning Coffee Plantation Tour.

Travelling towards Mikumi National Park, we pause at the Baobab Valley, home to some of Tanzania’s most iconic trees. Upon arrival in Mikumi there is an opportunity to join an optional game drive in Mikumi National Park, Tanzania’s fourth-largest national park. (BLD)

Today is free to enjoy additional safari experiences in Mikumi National Park or embark on a variety of optional cultural tours. (BLD)

Today we travel to Dar es Salaam where you overnight before catching your transport to Zanzibar the following morning. Enjoy your evening in Tanzania’s largest city. (BL)

Set off early this morning to catch your ferry to Zanzibar Island. On arrival at the ferry port, continue to your hotel in Stone Town, the historic heart of the island. You will be separated from the Nomad truck for the next three nights, so please pack only the personal belongings you will require during your stay on Zanzibar Island. Travel light, keeping larger luggage on the truck until you rejoin the tour. (B)

This morning we explore Stone Town on foot, including a visit to landmarks associated with Freddie Mercury. We then continue north, enjoying a guided spice tour before reaching the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar’s northern coast. (B)
Included Highlights: Stone Town Walking Tour, Spice Tour.

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 choose 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. (B)

We bid farewell to the white-sand beaches and turquoise waters of Zanzibar. We board the ferry back to the mainland, arriving in Dar es Salaam before travelling north along the coast to historic Bagamoyo. Once a major East African trading centre, Bagamoyo is rich in Swahili culture and history. (BD)

From the coastal lowlands of Bagamoyo, travel inland through vibrant towns, villages and open savannah landscapes. If time permits this afternoon, there may be an opportunity to join an optional coffee plantation visit or guided cycling tour. (BLD)

Today we travel towards Karatu, stopping en route at Mto wa Mbu Market, known for its colourful produce, including rice and red bananas. This evening your guide will brief you on the upcoming Ngorongoro and Serengeti excursion. (BLD)
Included Highlight: Mto wa Mbu Market.

You will rise early and transfer by 4x4 vehicle to Ngorongoro Crater. Spend the morning exploring the crater floor before continuing to the Seronera region in the heart of Serengeti National Park. This evening enjoy the sounds of the African wilderness from camp. (BLD)
Included Highlight: 4x4 excursion to Ngorongoro Crater and afternoon drive into the Serengeti.

Today is dedicated to a full-day game drive through Serengeti National Park. Famous for its healthy wildlife populations and dramatic landscapes, the Serengeti provides outstanding opportunities to search for predators, plains game and migratory wildlife. (BLD)
Included Highlight: Full-day game drive through the Seronera area.
Pre-Bookable Optional: Hot Air Balloon Safari.

We depart Serengeti National Park and make the return journey to Arusha. This evening is spent reminiscing about our experiences in both the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. (BLD)

Crossing into Kenya, you travel to Nairobi where the afternoon is free to prepare for the upcoming Masai Mara excursion. As this excursion operates in safari vehicles, pack a smaller overnight bag. (BL)

Heading out of Nairobi, travel to the world-renowned Masai Mara. The rolling plains, abundant wildlife and dramatic landscapes make this one of Africa’s premier safari destinations. (BLD)
Included Highlight: Masai Mara Excursion.

Enjoy a full day game drive in the Masai Mara searching for elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, cheetah, zebra, wildebeest and many other species that inhabit the reserve. (BLD)
Included Highlight: Full-day Masai Mara game drive.

This morning, leaving the Mara, you will travel to Lake Nakuru National Park. The park is renowned for its birdlife and populations of black and white rhino. This afternoon enjoy a game drive through the reserve. Originally created as a bird sanctuary, Lake Nakuru was upgraded to National Park status in 1968. (BLD)
Included Highlight: Lake Nakuru National Park Game Drive.

This morning you will cross the border into Uganda, continue to Jinja, Uganda's second-largest city. Located on the shores of Lake Victoria, Jinja is best known as the source of the Nile River, where the river begins its long journey north towards the Mediterranean Sea. (BLD)

After a brief stop in Kampala, continue towards Murchison Falls National Park, one of Uganda's premier wildlife destinations. Also referred to as the Kabaraga Falls, Murchison Falls is a waterfall found on the course of the great Nile and are located within the Murchison National Park. The park is home to Murchison Falls, where the mighty Nile River is forced through a narrow gorge before plunging into the river below. Arrive in Masindi and settle into your accommodation before a briefing from your guide on the activities planned for the following day. (BLD)
Included Highlight: Ziwa Rhino Walk.

Today you explore Budongo Forest, East Africa's largest mahogany forest, in search of chimpanzees. A Nile River cruise is also included. Depending on permit availability, the order of activities may vary. (BLD)
Included Highlight: Nile River Cruise.
Pre-Bookable Optional: Chimp Trekking.

Departing Masindi, you travel south towards Queen Elizabeth National Park. Your overnight accommodation overlooks Lake Kikorongo, offering excellent views across the surrounding landscapes. (BLD)

Crossing the Equator once more, you travel south to the scenic shores of Lake Bunyonyi. This evening you will receive a briefing on the upcoming gorilla trekking experience and activities available in the region. (BLD)

The mountain gorilla remains one of the world's rarest primates, with just over 1,000 individuals remaining in the wild. Visiting the gorillas contributes directly to their conservation, as permit fees help fund protection efforts, research and community development initiatives. An important part of long-term conservation is ensuring that local communities benefit from tourism and are actively involved in protecting wildlife and their habitats. (BLD)

As gorilla trekking permits are extremely limited, flexibility is required regarding both the tour itinerary and the location of your trek. Mountain gorillas range across Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and permit availability ultimately determines where trekking will take place. Wherever possible, permits are secured in Uganda; however, should permits not be available, alternative arrangements may be made in Rwanda or the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Guests will be advised in advance should this be necessary. Please Note: The Gorilla Trekking permit is costed separately.

During your free time at Lake Bunyonyi, you may choose to participate in a range of optional activities, including hiking, mountain biking or simply relaxing and enjoying the surrounding scenery. (BLD)
 
Pre-Bookable Optionals: Gorilla Trekking, Golden Monkey Trekking.
 
Optional Activities: Rwanda Day Trip, Motor Boat Trips (Islands).

Although there are two days allocated to Gorilla Trekking, you will only spend one day on the trek itself. The additional time provides flexibility for permit allocations and ensures all guests have the opportunity to participate should the group exceed trekking permit limits. (BLD) 
Pre-Bookable Optionals: Gorilla Trekking, Golden Monkey Trekking.
Optional Activities: Rwanda Day Trip, Motor Boat Trips (Islands).

This morning depart the beautiful Lake Bunyonyi region and travel to Lake Mburo National Park. Surrounded by rolling hills, open grasslands and woodland, Lake Mburo is one of Uganda's most scenic protected areas and is renowned for its birdlife, including the elusive shoebill stork. (BLD)

Leaving the Ankole region behind, we return to Jinja. The town offers a wide range of adventure activities focused around the Nile River, including rafting, kayaking and cruises. Those preferring a land-based experience can enjoy horseback riding or quad biking. (BLD)
Included Highlight: Crossing of the Equator.

Jinja offers plenty of optional activities for both adventurous and relaxed travellers. Enjoy the day at leisure before joining the included Source of the Nile River Cruise this afternoon, watching the sun set over Lake Victoria and the Nile River. (BLD)
Included Activity: Source of the Nile River Cruise.

Returning to Kenya, you travel to Eldoret, the country's fifth-largest city. The Great Rift Valley remains the dominant feature of the landscape, while the region's high altitude provides cooler conditions and sweeping views. (BLD)

Returning to Nairobi this afternoon, we reflect on the many experiences and memories gathered along this remarkable African journey. Your tour ends upon arrival in Nairobi. (BL)