Harare To Cape Town (34 Days) Deltas & Dunes
Harare To Cape Town (34 Days) Deltas & Dunes
34 Days Starting in Harare, Zimbabwe and ending in Cape Town, South Africa
Visiting: Zimbabwe
Tour operator:
Tour code:
434
Specialist Group:
Singles Solo
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 10
Age range:
18-80
Special diets catered:
Please advise requests
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Adventure Tours, Camping, Safari Tours, Walking Hiking and Trekking
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 34-day adventure from Harare to Cape Town, traversing the stunning landscapes of Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. This tour offers a blend of thrilling safaris, breathtaking natural wonders, and cultural experiences. Explore the serene Eastern Highlands, witness the grandeur of Victoria Falls, and cruise the wildlife-rich Chobe River. Venture into the Okavango Delta by mokoro and camp under the stars, then enjoy game drives and floodlit waterholes in Etosha National Park. Discover the iconic dunes of Namib-Naukluft Park and the vibrant cityscape of Cape Town, dominated by the majestic Table Mountain. This journey promises an immersive and active adventure, with camping, wildlife encounters, and the camaraderie of group travel.
Highlights
Itinerary
Leaving Harare we make our way to the Eastern Highlands of Zimbabwe, where we visit Chimanimani, and where you have the opportunity to take a hike through the mountain wilderness area, or hiking to the nearby bridal veil falls, or simply enjoying the stunning surroundings from this sleepy village whilst strolling through the village market. Great Zimbabwe Ruins which was once the greatest medieval city in Sub Saharan Africa and where the name Zimbabwe is derived, literally meaning house of stone is where we stop next to view this ancient city.
DAY 6-8: GREAT ZIMBABWE TO BULAWAYO
We drive across Mashonaland to Gweru, here we visit a privately run horse and game ranch where you can go game viewing on horseback. Its our destination for the next few days. Next we enter Matabeleland and the town of Bulawayo.
DAY 9-10: BULAWAYO TO VICTORIA FALLS
You have the option of leaving the truck for a day to venture into Matobo National Park with a local safari company. You will have a unique chance to get out on foot to try and spot the elusive Black Rhino - amongst hordes of other game. There is also the opportunity to visit Cecil Rhodes' grave and Ancient Rock Paintings. We will then follow a journey that is steeped in history and say goodbye to our truck for the night as we board the overnight train from Bulawayo to the mighty Victoria Falls. Expect basic conditions, but the views and experience of looking out the window and watching the world go by more than makes up for it. If you look carefully you might even spot some kudu or elephant! When you get there the mighty Victoria Falls await.
DAY 11-12: VICTORIA FALLS
For some, Mosi oa Tunya - The Smoke That Thunders, is the highlight of their African safari. From the main road, in the bush 20kms away, a cloud of mist and spray can be seen against the blue sky. As you get closer, a low rumble like thunder can be heard. When you arrive it is a surprise to discover the enormity of Victoria Falls. One mile wide and hurling over 5 million cubic metres of water a minute into the Zambezi Gorge this sight is breathtaking at any time of year. The Gorge is the setting for one of the most adrenaline fuelled grade 5 white water rafting in the world. There is something here for everyone. Why not take a day trip over the Victoria Falls bridge to view the falls from Zambia, take the Flight of Angels - a great way to get a birds eye view of the falls in a microlight or helicopter, enjoy a civilised afternoon tea at the Victoria Falls Hotel, join a Sunset Boat Cruise or a more sedate Canoe trip. For those who want to make the most of the adrenaline activities, get your fix with the Gorge Swing, Abseil or 'enjoy' one of the highest commercial Bungee Jumps in the world.
DAY 13: VICTORIA FALLS
Our final day in Victoria Falls provides you with time for those last minute activities or shopping you may wish to do before we continue our African adventure.
DAY 14-17: VICTORIA FALLS TO MAUN
Our overland trip continues from Zimbabwe into Botswana, spending the night on the outskirts of the Chobe National Park - famous for its hordes of Elephants, as well as an abundance of other wildlife. You will have a chance to spend the afternoon on the Chobe River - a less intrusive way to view game and wildlife - as well as the Namibian frontier across the river.
We then head south into the Kalahari Basin - known for its dry, desolate and expansive freedom. You will have an opportunity to leave the truck to venture into the Okavango Delta. Local poler guides will navigate the extensive waterways using canoes similar to their traditional Mokoro's (dug out canoes). This is a great experience - and the best way to have a chance of seeing the elusive wildlife of this unique desert oasis. You will have a number of opportunities to go on game walks with rangers - giving you the chance to see elephant, crocodile and hippo up close and personal. The Okavango Delta is one of the world's largest inland waterways and its calming serenity will leave those who experience it feeling supremely relaxed. There is also the opportunity to experience the heights of African adventure travel too: see the delta from the air during an hour-long flight.
DAY 18-22: MAUN TO BRANDBERG MOUNTAINS
Travelling west we enter Namibia and continue toward Etosha National Park - recognised as one of the worlds greatest wildlife viewing areas. The semi desert is quite a contrast to the more fertile terrain we have been used to. The night sky ablaze with shooting stars and the warm glow of our campfire makes for unforgettable camping experiences. Besides game drives we can also game watch by night at one of the floodlit water holes where we may well spot Rhino, Elephant and Giraffe among a host of other wildlife.
From Etosha we visit a local Cheetah park and get up close to these amazing and endangered creatures, before continuing on to the Brandberg Mountains in Demaraland.
DAY 23-27: BRANDBERG TO SWAKOPMUND
We then travel to the stunning Spitzkoppe Rock formations. Known as the Matterhorn of Namibia - the Spitzkoppe is part of the Erongo Mt range and was formed over 100 million years ago after the collapse of a gigantic volcano. The scenery is striking from every angle - even more stunning as the granite massifs turn red at sunset. Next stop is the world famous Cape Cross Seal Colony, where the sight of thousands of these mammals, as well as their accompanying pungent odour is remembered by all! The Cool Atlantic Ocean and the prominent Benguela current provide a perfect location for feeding and breeding for the Cape Fur Seal.
For the next three days, our Africa overland trip will be based in Swakopmund - Namibia's adventure gateway. You can choose between a variety of activities and excursions here: spend a day deep sea fishingfor shark and other game fish or head out to the desert and try quad biking and dune sledding. You can also go horse riding or get a birds eye view of the dramatic coastline - either by Sky diving from 10,000 feet or take a flight over the towering sand dunes in the area. In Swakopmund itself you can walk along miles of deserted beaches, visit the museum or relax in a cafe.
DAY 28-31: SWAKOPMUND TO FISH RIVER CANYON
A one day drive takes us to the Namib-Naukluft Park, a vast expanse of desert which contains some of the highest sand dunes in the world. At Sossusvlei we stop and explore this spectacular area and red dunes. Continuing south we enter the semi-desert, and wide-open countryside of cattle ranching until we arrive at one of Africas most sensational natural features, Fish River Canyon. We stop here for a couple of hours to take in the awesome scenery.
DAY 32-33: FISH RIVER CANYON TO CAPE TOWN
A couple of hours drive away we enter South Africa and cross the Orange River - a rich source of diamonds. We travel south through the Cederburg Wilderness Area, an area of rugged valleys and peaks before getting to the vibrant and cosmopolitan city of Cape Town. Our accommodation here will be in a backpackers hostel.
DAY 34: CAPE TOWN
Your trip will finish after breakfast. There is plenty to do in and around Cape Town, from climbing up Table Mountain to abseiling down it, diving with sharks (either in ocean cages - or at the Two Oceans Aquarium), a tour to Robben Island or head out on the town to one of the many hot spots that Cape Town has to offer.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation includes approximately 90% camping and 10% simple hostels/hotels.
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Private Game Ranch
A visit to a private game ranch is included.
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Overnight Sleeper Train
An overnight sleeper train from Bulawayo to Victoria Falls is included, if available.
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Chobe National Park
Entrance to Chobe National Park and a river cruise are included.
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Etosha National Park
Entrance to Etosha National Park is included.
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Cheetah Park
A visit to Cheetah Park is included.
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Namib Naukluft Park
Entrance to Namib Naukluft Park is included.
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Spitzkoppe Rock Formations
A visit to the Spitzkoppe Rock formations is included.
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Cape Cross Seal Colony
A visit to the Cape Cross Seal Colony is included.
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Sossusvlei Sand Dunes
A visit to the Sossusvlei Sand Dunes is included.
What's Not Included
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Visas
Visas are not included.
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Local Payment
A local payment of USD 830 (2023-24) is payable at the start of the trip.
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Optional Excursions
Optional excursions as listed in the Pre-Departure Information are not included.
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Flights
Flights are not included.
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Airport Taxes and Transfers
Airport taxes and transfers are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included.
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Meals
Approximately 40% of meals are not included.
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Drinks
Drinks are not included.
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Tips
Tips are not included.
More Info
The warm heart of Africa, Zimbabwe, will welcome your arrival before you and your fellow travellers continue south through the ever-changing landscapes of Southern Africa. Experience the the abundant wildlife of the Okavango Delta & Etosha National Park, to the breathtaking scenery of the Namib Desert, Fish River Canyon & Chimanimani mountain ranges. Try your hand at white water rafting & bungy jumping at Victoria Falls or quad biking & dune sledding at Swakopmund.
Mode of Transport
The Oasis truck will be your new home giving you a comfortable, secure base with which to experience your trip. As part of the adventure you will be expected to have an active involvement in the day to day running of the trip, be part of the group and get stuck in and help with various tasks, whether it's cooking meals over open fires, pitching your tent or keeping the truck clean and tidy. Seatbelts All Oasis Overland trucks are fitted with seatbelts. For your own safety and security we recommend that travellers wear these at all times whilst the vehicle is moving. Our overland trucks in Africa also have a ‘beach area’ which is a chill out zone to be used when the truck is not moving.
Accommodation
Camping - Oasis uses roomy three-person tents but only for two people. They are specially made for us to meet the tougher conditions of an overland trip and have mosquito netting sewn into the door and windows. Tents are shared (between two people of the same sex from your group unless you are a couple). We spend some nights bush or desert camping and the rest of the time in campsites. Facilities and standards at campsites vary, some are well equipped and managed and some are very basic. At bush camps you will be living off the truck, so there will be no showers or en-suite facilities! At certain campsites there is the opportunity to upgrade to a private room at your own expense if you are missing your bed. Lodges / Hostels - At some locations we will stay in lodges and hostels that are small, locally run establishments. The accommodation will vary depending on the rooming available, from dormitory style rooms, to twins/doubles or triple rooms. Upgrades may be available on arrival, but cannot be reliably pre-booked. Please refer to the individual trip inclusions for the percentage break up of your accommodation.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of involvement is expected from participants during the trip?
Participants are expected to have an active involvement in the day-to-day running of the trip. This includes tasks such as cooking meals over open fires, pitching tents, and keeping the truck clean and tidy.
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What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes approximately 90% camping and 10% simple hostels or hotels. Camping involves roomy three-person tents shared between two people, with mosquito netting sewn into the door and windows. Some nights will be spent bush or desert camping, while others will be at campsites with varying facilities. In some locations, there is the option to upgrade to a private room at your own expense.
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What kind of wildlife experiences can I expect on this tour?
You can expect a variety of wildlife experiences, including a safari through Matobo National Park to search for Black Rhino, a cruise on the Chobe River to view wildlife, a mokoro trip into the Okavango Delta, and game drives in Etosha National Park. Additionally, you will visit a private game ranch, Cheetah Park, and the Cape Cross Seal Colony.
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Are there any unique transportation experiences included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes an overnight sleeper train from Bulawayo to Victoria Falls, providing a unique way to experience the journey and potentially spot wildlife from the train.
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What kind of activities are available at Victoria Falls?
At Victoria Falls, you can take a day trip to view the falls from Zambia, enjoy a Flight of Angels in a microlight or helicopter, have afternoon tea at the Victoria Falls Hotel, join a Sunset Boat Cruise or a Canoe trip, and participate in adrenaline activities like the Gorge Swing, Abseil, or Bungee Jump.
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What should I expect in terms of meals during the tour?
Approximately 60% of meals are included in the tour. Participants will be involved in cooking meals over open fires as part of the group activities.
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What are the camping conditions like during the tour?
Camping conditions vary. Some nights will be spent bush or desert camping with no showers or en-suite facilities, while other nights will be at campsites with varying standards of facilities. The tents are roomy and shared between two people, with mosquito netting for protection.
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Is there an opportunity to upgrade accommodation during the tour?
Yes, at certain campsites, there is the opportunity to upgrade to a private room at your own expense if you are missing your bed. However, these upgrades cannot be reliably pre-booked and are subject to availability upon arrival.
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What kind of activities are available in Swakopmund?
In Swakopmund, you can choose from a variety of activities such as deep-sea fishing, quad biking, dune sledding, horse riding, sky diving, or taking a flight over the towering sand dunes. You can also walk along deserted beaches, visit the museum, or relax in a café.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes, if you are travelling solo. On our Overland Adventures and Ultimate Expeditions, we will pair you up with a tent buddy of the same sex when we camp and the same goes for twin & shared rooms in hostels, so there is no need to go it alone! If you specifically would like to request your own single room whilst on the trip, this may be requested subject to availability and additional fee.
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How many people do you take on your Trips?
On most of our Overland Adventures and Ultimate Expeditions our vehicles can carry a maximum of 24 travellers, the average however is around 16-20 on any one trip. Our Small Group Adventures have a maximum of 18 people per Tour Leader, although again the average is around 10-14 people.
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Low Deposit
Oasis Overland requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of oasis overland charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 33% of booking price.
At 45 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.
At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.