Nairobi To Cape Town (56 Days) Coast To Coast
Nairobi To Cape Town (56 Days) Coast To Coast
56 Days Starting in Nairobi, Kenya and ending in Cape Town, South Africa
Visiting: Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, South Africa
Tour operator:
Tour code:
436
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:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 56-day adventure from Nairobi to Cape Town, traversing the diverse landscapes of Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. Experience the thrill of a 4x4 safari in the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park, relax on Zanzibar's pristine beaches, and explore Stone Town's vibrant spice market. Witness the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, take a mokoro trip into the Okavango Delta, and enjoy game drives in Etosha National Park. This tour offers a mix of camping and hostel stays, with opportunities for unique wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, and adrenaline-pumping activities, all while traveling in a comfortable Oasis Expedition Truck.
Highlights
Itinerary
Welcome to Nairobi, today you have the opportunity to get up close to Africa's tallest mammal when we visit the Langata Giraffe Centre in Nairobi. You will also have free time to visit the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, where Oasis sponsor Kamboyo, an orphaned elephant.
DAY 2-5: NAIROBI TO ARUSHA
We depart Nairobi early morning and immediately find ourselves in hot savannah grasslands with acacia trees providing the only shade. Various game, usually zebra and giraffe can be seen as we head south and cross into Tanzania - where we camp on the outskirts of Arusha town. Here you have the option to use a local African safari travel company to guide us through the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park.
You'll head down into the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater. On the crater floor you will have the opportunity to view the abundant wildlife including Elephant, Lion, Cheetah, White Rhino, Buffalo, Hippo, Antelope, Crocodile and Pink Flamingos. From here you go into the Serengeti for a day where vast herds of wildebeest roam the plains.
For those who wish - there is an option to visit a local Maasai Village and learn about their culture and way of life.
DAY 6-13: ARUSHA TO DAR SALAAM
After leaving Arusha we pass a number of small towns and villages along the way and, if we are lucky, we may see the towering peak of Kilimanjaro.
We will stop off at Marangu where you have the opportunity to climb to Kilimanjaro base camp, or take a walk through the lush surroundings passing through coffee plantations, rivers, waterfalls, caves and visiting a local blacksmith. A days drive brings us to Dar Es Salaam where our truck is based for around 4 nights in a campsite on a beautiful Indian Ocean beach. From here we take the ferry out to Zanzibar for four full days, and venture into the narrow bustling streets of Stone Town and its famous spice markets, old slave forts and dungeons.
There is also time to relax on Zanzibar's famous white beaches, scuba dive or snorkel and swim with dolphins.
DAY 14-19: DAR ES SALAAM TO LAKE MALAWI
After meeting the Zanzibar ferry we begin the journey through the interesting and mountainous hinterland of Tanzania. In the afternoon, after negotiating some appalling roads, we pass through the peaceful Mikumi National Park. African safari travel is synonymous with wildlife, and in this national park we usually see Elephant, Giraffe, Zebra and Antelope from the roadside.
Passing through lush mountainous landscape and plantations - we enter Malawi which is dominated by its huge fresh water lake. Camping in Malawi sums up the spirit of an Africa overland trip with Oasis. We spend 4 to 5 days at friendly laid back campsites where most people choose to relax on the sandy beaches or try their hand at scuba diving, snorkelling or windsurfing as we follow the lakeshore south.
If you are more inclined to just relax - then there is no better place than on the shores of Lake Malawi. This really is a warm friendly country - making it easy to wander off and meet up with your local hosts in one of the many villages or schools nearby.
You can view firsthand the talent of the local artisans and purchase some exquisite pieces of furniture and carvings out of ebony and mahogany.
DAY 20-22: LAKE MALAWI TO HARARE
From here we continue on to the capital Lilongwe in the south of the country where you can check out the local markets. Our African Overland trip leaves Lilongwe to cross into Mozambique and head for Zimbabwe.
We follow the infamous Tete Corridor which was well known in the days of Mozambique's long running civil war as the Gun Run. Thankfully these days things are a lot different! We enter Zimbabwe and travel via the capital, Harare.
Arriving into Zimbabwe's cosmopolitan city, you can enjoy many of the sights in and around the city centre, there are many markets throughout the city from craft markets to the hectic local Mbare market, stroll through the botanical gardens, or enjoy the nightlife in one of the many bars throughout the city.
DAY 23-27: HARARE TO GREAT ZIMBABWE
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 28-30: 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 31-32: 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 33-34: 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 35: 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 36-39: 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 40-44: 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 45-49: 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 50-53: 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 54-55: 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 56: 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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Giraffe Centre
Visit to the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi.
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Return ferry to Zanzibar
Return ferry trip to Zanzibar is included.
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Zanzibar Accommodation
4 nights accommodation on Zanzibar.
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Lake Malawi village walk
Guided village walk at Lake Malawi.
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Private Game Ranch
Visit to a private game ranch.
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Overnight sleeper train
Overnight sleeper train from Bulawayo to Victoria Falls (if available).
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Chobe National Park
Entrance and river cruise in Chobe National Park.
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Etosha National Park
Visit to Etosha National Park.
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Cheetah Park
Visit to Cheetah Park.
What's Not Included
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Visas
Visas are not included.
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Local Payment
Local payment of USD 1200 (2023-24) payable at the start of the trip.
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Serengeti Excursion
Serengeti Excursion is bookable as an add-on and not included.
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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.
Optional Extras
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2 night Serengeti Safari
On your Oasis Overland trip through Tanzania, you have the opportunity to go on a guided safari in the world renowned Serengeti National Park & Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area. You can either add this to your booking in advance of your trip or you can pay directly to the local operator, the decision is yours! Once requested and paid for, this cannot be refunded or exchanged. For this safari you shall be collected in 7 seat safari vehicles, in the afternoon from Meserani Snake Park, where you will be staying on your Oasis trip. You will then be driven to Karatu, where you shall have an overnight stay and dinner at either Kudu Campsite or Flamingo Campsite. The following morning you will have an early wake up & breakfast, before heading out to do a morning game drive in the Ngorongoro Crater. The group will then enjoy a picnic style lunch in the Ngorongoro Crater, before heading on to an afternoon’s game drive in the Serengeti. You will then be taken to the Seronera Campsite, for your evening meal and where you will be camping overnight. On the final day of this excursion you will have another early breakfast to give you the maximum morning game drive through the Serengeti. There will then be a packed lunch before heading back to Meserani Snake Park, where you will re-join your truck and your Oasis trip.
More Info
One of our Africa Overland Adventures, this tour takes you on an overland journey encompassing many of the incredible landscapes and cultures found in Africa. An incredible trip for any budget, this trip takes you from the calm tropical waters of Zanzibar to the wild Atlantic Ocean of Southern Africa - the contrasts abound. Whether you want to discover the wildlife of the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Etosha National Parks or explore the playgrounds of Victoria Falls and Swakopmund, this is a fantastic adventure tour that will leave memories that last forever.
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 will be provided during the tour?
Accommodation will primarily be camping, with approximately 90% of the nights spent in roomy three-person tents shared between two people. The remaining 10% will be in simple hostels or hotels. Some nights will be spent bush or desert camping, and at certain campsites, there may be an opportunity to upgrade to a private room at your own expense.
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What are the transportation arrangements for this tour?
The tour will use an Oasis Expedition Truck, which will serve as a comfortable and secure base for the trip. The truck is equipped with seatbelts and has a 'beach area' for relaxing when the vehicle is not moving.
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Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, there are several optional activities available, such as visiting a local Maasai Village, climbing to Kilimanjaro base camp, scuba diving or snorkeling in Zanzibar, and various adrenaline activities at Victoria Falls like bungee jumping and white-water rafting.
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What kind of wildlife can I expect to see during the tour?
You can expect to see a wide variety of wildlife, including the Big 5 (Elephant, Lion, Cheetah, White Rhino, Buffalo), Hippo, Antelope, Crocodile, Pink Flamingos, and many more. Specific highlights include game drives in Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park, and a safari in Matobo National Park to search for Black Rhino.
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What are the meal arrangements during the tour?
Approximately 60% of the 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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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 should I expect in terms of facilities at campsites?
Facilities and standards at campsites vary. Some campsites are well-equipped and managed, while others are very basic. At bush camps, you will be living off the truck, so there will be no showers or en-suite facilities.
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What are some of the key highlights of this tour?
Key highlights include a 4x4 safari through the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park, exploring Zanzibar Island beaches and Stone Town's spice market, a safari through Matobo National Park, viewing Victoria Falls, a mokoro trip into the Okavango Delta, and game drives in Etosha National Park.
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What is the local payment required at the start of the trip?
A local payment of USD 1200 (for 2023-24) is required at the start of the trip.
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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.
Reviews from travellers on this tour
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Low Deposit
Oasis Overland requires a minimum deposit of 400 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 65% of booking price.
At 39 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.