Cape Town to Kenya Itinerary

Starting in

Cape Town, South Africa

Physical Difficulty

2 / 5

Breakfasts included

46

Lunches included

30

Dinners included

38

Ending in

Nairobi, Kenya

Accommodation

Camping (with facilities) (35 nights), Camping (with basic facilities) (5 night), Camping (without facilities) (1 night), Cabin (3 nights), Hotel (1 night)

Transport

Overland Vehicle, 4WD Safari Vehicle, Ferry, Minibus, Mokoro

Travel from the southern tip of Africa to the plains of East Africa on this 49-day overland adventure. Starting in Cape Town, you’ll journey through vast deserts, wildlife-rich savannas, and lush mountain ranges, ending in Nairobi. Watch the sunrise over the dunes of Sossusvlei, spot elephants and rhinos on safari in Etosha, Chobe, and the Serengeti, and feel the spray of Victoria Falls. Glide through the Okavango Delta in a traditional mokoro, visit a local project turning snares into jewellery, and hike through the misty Usambara Mountains. From safaris to local village experiences, this trip is the perfect way to discover everything that makes this part of the world so unforgettable.

Day 1: Cape Town

Sawubona! Welcome to South Africa. With its stunning coastline, modern cityscape and nearby mountains, Cape Town is one of Africa's most exciting cities. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm this evening. If you arrive early, why not get out and explore Cape Town, maybe with a walk in Newlands Forest or by jumping on the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway. You could also head down to the waterfront to see Cape Town Stadium up close. After the meeting, ask your leader where the best dinner spots are and consider heading out for a welcome dinner with your group.

Day 2: Western Cape

Leaving Cape Town behind, travel up the Western Cape today. Sit back, relax and enjoy the sprawling scenery. Tonight, you’ll stay on a working farm with your group. This is a great chance to gain an insight into everyday life in this remote part of South Africa. The surrounding countryside is perfectly explored on foot, so if there’s time, maybe take a walk around the nearby mountains and farms before settling in for the evening.

Day 3: Orange River

Journey to the Orange River – the beautiful natural border between South Africa and Namibia. On the way, you'll pass through Namaqualand, which is renowned for its wildflowers that spring up from late July to mid-September. Traditionally known as the Gariep River, the Orange River is the longest in South Africa (2200 km). Its source is high up in the Drakensberg Mountain Range in Lesotho, and it flows into the Atlantic Ocean at Alexander Bay in South Africa.

Day 4: Fish River Canyon

This morning, there’s an optional canoe adventure on the Orange River. Floating leisurely down the stream is a great way to discover the beauty of this region. After, head further west into the desert lands of Namibia towards Fish River Canyon. At 500 m deep and over 160 km long, Fish River Canyon is one of the largest canyons in the world. At any time of year there are remarkable photo opportunities here as you watch the colour of the granite rocks change as the sun goes down.

Day 5: Sesriem

Be ready for a long travel day as you drive toward the fabled dunes of Namibia. You’ll have the opportunity to stop at a market or shop to stock up on supplies before tomorrow's bush camp. When you arrive, stretch your legs and take in the exciting desert scenes. You’ll be situated in the most famous part of the Namib Desert, among the vast dune fields – the most spectacular of which are found near the Sesriem Canyon. Get an early night in preparation for your dawn hike tomorrow.

Day 6: Sossusvlei

Wake up before dawn and scramble to the top of the dunes for a dramatic sunrise view across a vast sea of sand. The colour changes as the sun creeps up above the horizon and the views are nothing short of incredible, providing a spectacular setting for your brunch. The dunes themselves are some of the highest in the world and home to much animal life. After, jump in the back of a pickup truck for a trip to Sossusvlei – the incredible salt and clay pan nearby. You'll have time to explore this mysterious desert oddity at your own pace. In the afternoon, drive to your bush camp in the heart of the Namib Desert.

Day 7: Swakopmund

Continue to Swakopmund today. Surrounded by the massive dune fields of the Namib Desert on three sides and the Atlantic Ocean on the other, Swakopmund is an ideal place for outdoor activities. The township has an interesting German–Namibian atmosphere, which makes it a pleasant place to simply walk around and explore. You could also visit the Swakopmund Museum today – the largest privately run Museum in Namibia housing exhibitions on zoology, geology and technology.

Day 8: Swakopmund

With a free day today, it's worth checking out the Germanic architecture of the area and maybe taking the opportunity to do some souvenir shopping. If you're after a dose of history and culture, you can stop in at the lighthouse and visit the Swakopmund Museum. Active types and thrill-seekers might like to take advantage of the many outdoor activities on offer – this town is the adventure-sports capital of Namibia.

Day 9: Swakopmund

With another free day in this beautiful seaside town, you might like to do some reading, relaxing and swimming. Alternatively, you can venture further afield – perhaps to the Okakambe Trails or the Camel Farm (both located in the same area, around 12 km east of town). A horse ride or camel ride is a great way to see the desert from a different perspective.

Day 10: Spitzkoppe

Travel to Spitzkoppe today. Experience the sight, sound and smell of thousands of olive-coloured seals on the shores of Cape Cross while travelling up the Atlantic Coast. Visit one of the most stunning areas of Namibia – the wild lands around the mountain of Spitzkoppe, also known as the Matterhorn of Namibia. Although you shouldn't try to climb to the top, there are some excellent hikes and guided walks throughout the area, which is rich in plant life. The Spitzkoppe is known for its stunning beauty and the thousands of ancient Bushmen rock art paintings that are still on view. Be sure to look out for the sunset from your bush camp this evening – the landscape is known to take on dazzling oranges and reds.

Day 11: Etosha National Park

This morning, set off and travel to Etosha National Park, stopping at a market or shop and ATM if required. Etosha is among the world's best places to view wildlife. A wide range of southern Africa's animals roams freely here, including all the big carnivores and rare or endangered species, including black rhino, Hartmann's mountain zebra, black-faced impala, roan antelope and the tiny Damara dik-dik. Tonight, there’s an option to take an evening game drive (subject to availability) before spending the night at the Okaukuejo Camp. The camp overlooks a floodlit waterhole visited by many different species throughout the day and night.

Day 12: Etosha National Park

Enjoy a full-day game drive in Etosha National Park. Game viewing in the park is relatively easy due to the constructed waterholes and the large, sparsely vegetated pans. The bushland surrounding the pans is difficult to see through, but there are enough clearings, pans and waterholes to usually allow for some sightings. Namibia has protected its game reserves against poaching, which means significant numbers of elephants, antelope and other herbivores reside here. This evening you will spend the night at Namutoni Camp.

Day 13: Grootfontein/San People

Leave Etosha behind and continue to your next camp, which is located 50 km outside Grootfontein. This will be your base for visiting the San people tomorrow. When you arrive at camp, stretch your legs, maybe go for a swim and kick back with your fellow travellers for a relaxed evening.

Day 14: Grootfontein

Embark on a 180-km round-trip to visit the San people today. You'll go out walking with some of the tribe, listening to their stories and songs. You'll soon discover that they communicate in a unique and fascinating Khoisan dialect, commonly known as a 'clicking' language. The San are the oldest ethnic group in Namibia, having inhabited southern Africa for an estimated 20,000 years. Around 30,000 of them live in Namibia, but only 2000 still follow a traditional way of life. The San have a deep understanding of nature and ecology, living in harmony with their environment.

Day 15: Bagani

Head to Bagani today, where you’ll set up camp for the night. Bagani is a small, friendly town with plenty of nice spots to relax and soak up the ambience as you catch the sunset over the Okavango River. You may even spot grunting hippos coming out of the waters to graze! This area is the homestead of the local Mbukushu kings and their kingdom.

Day 16: Okavango Delta

Drive across the border into Botswana and head south along the Okavango Panhandle (the narrowest part of the delta) to Sepopa. Here, you'll leave your vehicle behind as you journey by boat into the delta to your bush camp on an island away from civilisation. Punting along past birds and lily pads, you'll hear hippos occasionally interrupting the peaceful atmosphere with their charming grunts.

Day 17: Okavango Delta

After breakfast, head out for your mokoro experience. Each mokoro (small dugout canoe) takes two people and is poled along through the meandering waterways by a local tribesman. You’ll also take a short nature walk with your guide to discover the beautiful natural surroundings, gain some insight into the history of the local area and look out for different bird species and occasionally, even elephants. After your trip around the delta, return by boat to the relative civilisation of Sepopa Camp, featuring hot showers, a swimming pool and a small bar. Today, there is an option to take a scenic flight to have an aerial view of the Delta.

Day 18: Bagani

Leave the delta behind today and return to Bagani for the night. There will be time to take part in an optional boat trip when you arrive, or you can opt for a picturesque sunset cruise. Alternatively, relax and recharge at camp.

Day 19: Chobe National Park

Setting off from Bagani this morning, you’ll drive to the incredible Chobe National Park. Catch a window seat if you can and watch the rolling landscape pass you by or play some road trip games with your newfound friends. Enter Botswana at the Goma border, which is also the gateway to the park. When you arrive, take an optional cruise down the Chobe River – one of the best ways to witness some of the park's many animals, like hippos, elephants and buffalo.

Day 20: Chobe National Park

Enjoy an early-morning game drive this morning. Adventuring through the park, you’ll have the opportunity to get up close to the wildlife and with luck, you’ll spot lions, buffalo and exotic birds. Botswana's first national park is famous for its high concentration of elephants, so keep an eye out for herds walking by, too. They can also often be seen swimming in the Chobe River! The river also attracts buffalo, hippos and crocodiles who like to sun themselves by the water's edge. In the afternoon, perhaps take an optional boat cruise to gain a different view of these amazing animals or take another optional afternoon game drive into the national park.

Day 21: Victoria Falls

This morning, travel to Victoria Falls, crossing the border into Zimbabwe just in time to have lunch on the banks of the Zambezi River. Set up camp and enjoy some free time to relax, freshen up, and plan out your next couple of days in Victoria Falls. Be sure to ask your local leader for their tips and advice.

Day 22: Victoria Falls

Spend the day soaking in the sights and sounds of Victoria Falls until your next welcome meeting at 4 pm tonight. Maybe explore the magnificent Victoria Falls – a thundering curtain of water approximately 1.5 km wide, falling 108 m into a narrow gorge below. In the wet season, the spray created can rise an incredible 400 m, and the falls become a raging torrent. In the dry season, the view of the falls is unobstructed by spray, and you can see little islets in the river below. After the meeting, why not grab dinner with your new group and get to know each other.

Day 23: Victoria Falls

Today is completely free for you to choose your own adventure! Perhaps take an optional helicopter flight for a breathtaking view of the falls from above, visit one of the local breweries for a taste of the region’s craft scene, or enjoy a sunset cruise along the Zambezi River. However you spend the day, make sure to rest up and get ready for tomorrow’s journey across the border into Zambia.

Day 24: Lusaka

This morning, travel to Lusaka. Today is a bit of a long travel day, so it’s the perfect chance to get stuck into a good book or catch up on your favourite podcasts. After crossing the border from Zimbabwe into Zambia, continue to your campsite on a private farm surrounded by the natural bushland, just outside of the city. When you arrive, set up camp, settle in, and spend some time exploring the camp, stretching your legs as you try to spot impala, giraffes, or even zebras wandering through!

Day 25: Lower Zambezi National Park

After breakfast, you’ll travel to Lower Zambezi National Park – located on the Zimbabwean border and famous for its spectacular Zambezi River valley and abundant wildlife, including fish eagles, buffalo, and elephants. Tonight, you’ll camp in the wildlife-rich Chiawa area, surrounded by native bush with animals roaming freely through the camp.

Day 26: Lower Zambezi National Park

Set off on a full-day safari through one of Zambia’s best wildlife viewing areas – Lower Zambezi National Park. This park is set along a wide floodplain of the Zambezi River, dotted with acacias and towering trees, and framed by a dramatic slope to the north, covered in thick miombo woodland. Across the river you'll see Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools National Park - the two parks forming one of Africa’s most amazing wilderness areas. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, leopards, lions, cheetahs and birds along the way.

Day 27: Petauke

Wake up early and begin your journey to Petauke – a town in the Eastern Province of Zambia. Along the way, watch the ever-changing scenery shift from open plains to rural villages and bustling roadside markets, offering a glimpse into daily Zambian life. Tonight, enjoy a well-earned rest at your camp, under the African night sky.

Day 28: South Luangwa National Park

After breakfast, travel to a workshop in South Luangwa where local craftswomen transform snare wire, recovered from poaching traps, into jewellery inspired by the African bush. When you arrive, the women will show you around their purpose-built workshop, then try your hand at coiling or hammering the wire yourself! After, continue your journey through the heartland to South Luangwa National Park. When you arrive, maybe set out on a game walk or river trip to see South Luangwa’s beautiful scenery as the sun slowly sets – just ask your local leader for more details!

Day 29: Chipata

After breakfast, you’ll spot iconic African wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, leopards, Thornicroft’s giraffes and lions, on a 4WD safari with a local guide. Learn about the region’s diverse landscapes and animals, then make tracks to your next camp near Chipata for the night.

Day 30: Lake Malawi

Cross the border into Malawi and continue straight to your camp on the shores of Lake Malawi. The country is dominated by its lake, which covers almost a fifth of the country and provides a livelihood for many local people. Fishermen, fish traders, and canoe and net makers all ply their trade on the water. Your campsite sits right on the shore so you can relax on the beach after todays drive.

Day 31: Lake Malawi

Enjoy a free day to soak up the lake’s sandy shores. Maybe take a refreshing dip in the lake, explore the surrounding area by bike, or join a guided snorkelling trip. Lake Malawi’s high alkalinity has created an abundance of brightly coloured fish and relatively few plants, resulting in a tropical, ocean-like snorkelling experience within a landlocked freshwater lake. Tonight, maybe find a local restaurant for dinner – your local leader will have the best recommendations!

Day 32: Chitimba

Drive to your camp in Chitimba, which lies along the coast of Lake Malawi and has lovely beaches, friendly locals and a laidback atmosphere. When you arrive, perhaps take a stroll and acquaint yourself with this different part of the lake. Enjoy the scenery of banana palms, papaya trees and the Livingstonia and Nyika mountains looming nearby.

Day 33: Iringa

This morning you can take an optional walk in the nearby village, an opportunity to meet some local Malawians-easily some of the friendliest people in Africa. Enjoy a free afternoon chilling out on the lake’s sandy shores, time to soak up your idyllic surroundings you can take a dip in the lake or try out cycling to the hilly villages. Perhaps cool off with an optional snorkelling trip with a local guide. Lake Malawi's high alkalinity has resulted in an abundance of brightly coloured fish and relatively low levels of plants. What you end up with is a tropical ocean-like snorkelling experience within a landlocked freshwater lake.

Day 34: Mikumi National Park

Today you'll drive to the edge of Mikumi National Park. Situated at the foot of the thickly wooded Uluguru Mountains, Mikumi is Tanzania's fourth largest national park. When you arrive, the rest of the day is free to explore at your own pace. Tonight, join your fellow travellers for dinner.

Day 35: Mikumi National Park

Journey off-the-beaten-track today as you explore Mikumi National Park – a landscape of baobab-studded plains and open savannahs. Mikumi is the fourth largest national park in the country, located near Morogoro. Join an expert guide on a 4WD safari, where you’ll see herds of buffalo, wildebeest, giraffe, elephant, and zebra.

Day 36: Dar es Salaam (South Beach)

Sit back, relax and enjoy the scenic drive to Kipepo Beach, located on the white sandy beaches on the south coast of Dar es Salaam. Once you arrive, set up camp and take some time to unwind – maybe enjoy a stroll along the shore. Your camp for the night is set on the grounds of a hotel right next to the beach, offering the perfect opportunity to unwind and take a refreshing dip in the Indian Ocean.

Day 37: Dar es Salaam (South Beach)

Today is a free day to explore at your own pace. Enjoy a day at the beach or head into Dar es Salaam to explore Tanzania's largest city and cultural centre. Maybe start your morning at Kivukoni Fish Market, where fishing dhows unload their fresh catch and the city buzzes to life with the day’s first light. In the city centre, tea vendors wander the streets, shops sell spicy samosas, and the mix of African, Arabic, Indian, and German architecture tells the story of Dar es Salaam’s rich cultural blend.

Day 38: Stone Town

Catch a ferry to Zanzibar, Africa’s famous ‘Spice Island.’ On arrival, enjoy some free time to discover Zanzibar City at your own pace. Lose yourself in the maze of cobblestone alleyways in Stone Town, admire the mix of Arabic, African and European architecture, or soak up the bustling atmosphere of Darajani Bazaar. This afternoon, you’ll have another welcome meeting at 2 pm to meet the new travellers joining you on the next leg of your adventure. After your meeting, perhaps head out together for dinner at a local restaurant – your leader will have the best recommendations.

Day 39: Zanzibar Northern Beaches

Once checked out of your Stone Town accommodation, consider booking in to an optional guided tour of the island's spice plantations, learning all about the history of this town's spice trade. You will have the opportunity to smell and taste various spices, such as cinnamon, vanilla and ginger, plus sample some teas made with these spices too. After lunch, head to the Northern Beaches, where white sands and sparkling blue seas await. This is the Indian Ocean at its best.

Day 40: Zanzibar Northern Beaches

Ease into the day with the sound of gentle waves and soft ocean breezes. With a full day free to enjoy Zanzibar’s coastline, you might choose to take a refreshing swim, stretch out on the beach beneath the palms, or savour the flavours of the island with a seafood dinner by the water. However you spend it, today is all about slowing down and letting the rhythm of island life take over.

Day 41: Bagamoyo

Say goodbye to Zanzibar’s northern beaches this morning as you travel back to Stone Town. Here you’ll meet new members of your group at an 11 am welcome meeting before taking the ferry back to Dar es Salaam. Say hello to your driver and cook before boarding your overland vehicle for the short drive to you camp in Bagamoyo, a lovely spot by the beach.

Day 42: Usambara Mountains

Travel into the remote Usambara Mountains (approximately 7 hours). This unspoilt area of Tanzania attracts very few tourists, making it the perfect place to soak in your surroundings. The forests stretch across the mountains and are ideal for easy hikes and guided walks. You base is the old German colony of Lushoto, where you’ll stay on the grounds of one of the earliest hotels in Africa.

Day 43: Usambara Mountains

Today, explore the beautiful Usambara Mountains and experience this area’s gentle hospitality on a visit to some of its small communities. From your base, hike to the gorgeous Irente viewpoint. It's best to pack some water and snacks in a day pack for this trip. On your way back, visit a local cultural project based at Irente farm and enjoy a locally prepared lunch.

Day 44: Arusha

Today, journey from the scenic Usambara Mountains to Arusha. While there are no planned activities, enjoy the drive through Tanzania's picturesque landscapes as you make your way to the bustling gateway to the northern safari circuit. Upon arrival at your campsite on the outskirts of town, unwind and settle in for a restful evening and prepare for the adventures ahead.

Day 45: Karatu

After breakfast this morning, head to Karatu, the gateway to the Ngorongoro Crater. Here, you'll hike through the Ngorongoro Reserve Forest to Elephant Caves and the Endoro waterfalls along the way. Rich with calcium, the Elephant Caves got their name as elephants would come here and break off pieces of rock, eating the dust to receive important minerals. Today's trek, accompanied by an expert local guide and armed ranger, is the perfect way to stretch your legs after a few days of overland travel. You'll hike through Ngorongoro rainforest as your local guide explains the ins and outs of the area here and points out interesting animal tracks and footprints. Marvel at the wild landscape and spot beautiful birdlife as you walk. After, head to Karatu village for a tour of the local coffee farm. Here, you'll see the innovative farming practices from the locals and learn about the farming activities that sustain the coffee, bean, maize, banana, soya and pea crops. Tonight, enjoy a traditional dinner with a local Tanzanian family in their home, who will cook you a few different dishes to try. Learn about the local culture with educational stories from a locally trained guide. What a night!

Day 46: Ngorongoro Crater / Serengeti National Park

Get up early, put your camping and personal gear into a six-person jeep and head out for an excursion into the Serengeti via the Ngorongoro Crater. Enjoy a safari in the crater, spending between 3 and 4 hours exploring this perfectly intact volcanic crater. Watch for black rhinos, lions, leopards, elephants, impalas, zebras and hippos. Next, move on to the open plains of the Serengeti. Green after the rains, brown and burnt in the dry season, this is perhaps the quintessential image of Africa – the home of thousands of hoofed animals and fierce predators. Your campsite is within the Serengeti itself, so listen out for the sounds of nocturnal animals as you drift off to sleep.

Day 47: Serengeti National Park

Wake at dawn and embark on a game drive. You will head out while the animals are at their most active, then go back to camp for brunch at around 11 am. After spending the middle of the day relaxing, just like the animals do, head out again as the day begins to cool. You'll return from this second game drive in time for dinner. There's also the option today of a balloon ride over the park (in place of a portion of the morning game drive). If you have pre-booked this activity you will be picked up before dawn and driven to the launch site. After a safety briefing, you will glide through the dawn, sometimes at tree height, which provides amazing photo opportunities. After landing, you'll be treated to a five-star bush breakfast, then be returned to your camp.

Day 48: Mto wa Mbu

Rise with the sun and enjoy another game drive as you leave the Serengeti in your dust. Jump back into your overland vehicle and head for Mto wa Mbu.

After setting up camp, we'll take a guided stroll through the farming areas, local homes and farmlands, getting to know the local community and their way of life. Later, we'll enjoy a scrumptious locally prepared dinner in town.

Day 49: Nairobi

Set off early and cross the Kenyan border then continue to Nairobi. You'll be dropped at the finishing point hotel in Nairobi where your trip ends. If you'd like to stay longer, just speak to your booking agent.

Essential Trip Information

Joining point

Holiday Inn Express Cape Town City Centre, 101 St. George's Mall , Cape Town, 8001, SOUTH AFRICA

Finish point

Hillpark Hotel, Lower Hill Rd , Upper Hill, Nairobi, 0100, KENYA

Important information

1.A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip and is subject to availability. The single supplement excludes Day 7-9 in Swakopmund and Day 16-17 in the Okavango Delta, where you will be in shared accommodation. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.

3. Optional sunrise balloon rides in the Serengeti National Park and Maasai Mara National Reserve are possible on this trip. As the balloon only holds 16 people, places are limited and we recommend booking in advance. Please inquire when booking your trip to secure a spot for this optional activity.

4. This trip is a combination of four of our most popular itineraries. As such, the composition of your group and your leader may change throughout the journey.

5. The Zanzibar portion of your itinerary may have a few more passengers than the maximum group size of 22, as we have a crossover of trips starting and finishing in Zanzibar.

5. This trip starts in Cape Town on Day 1 at 6pm and finishes upon arrival in Nairobi on Day 49. Please do not book flights departing Nairobi before 10 pm on the final day.

Emergency contact

While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or local representative straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip.

We recognise that there may be times when your group leader or local representative may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case, please ask the group leader or local representative to speak to their direct manager.

You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback, which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip. Please do be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is completed, so informing us while still travelling will give us the opportunity to resolve the issue in real-time., For general contact details please use the following page: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/contact-us, For transfers and accommodation issues, Intrepid's Kenya Office can be reached on their 24-hour number +254 758 555 556 or +254 758 555 557. , In case of a genuine crisis or emergency, you can reach our local office on the numbers below:



, Intrepid's Local East Africa Operator: +254 758 555 550 or +254 758 555 5501

Is this trip right for you

No two journeys in Africa are identical. There will be many early starts either to make use of the better safari time or to beat the morning traffic on long travel days. Be prepared for travel times to be longer or shorter than advised. Weather and road conditions can change things significantly, so embrace the detours, shortcuts, and unforgettable moments along the way., This is a participatory overland camping trip. That means you’ll be travelling with a group in a purpose-built vehicle, visiting remote communities, setting up your tent, helping out with camp chores, occasionally roughing it in the bush with no facilities, and getting the best possible views of iconic African wildlife. For more info on this style of travel, see our Africa overland page at intrepidtravel.com/africa/overland., Camping in the Serengeti National Park with no barriers between you and the animals is amazing, but it's important to heed the safety advice of your leader. You'll be briefed on arrival., The day-to-day itinerary features a selection of optional activities. Please note that this list is not exhaustive and is intended only as a guide. Prices are approximate and may change at the discretion of the local provider. All activities are subject to availability.

Why we love it

Explore Africa’s national parks by overland truck, mokoro canoe, and 4WD safari vehicles. Spot iconic wildlife, including hippos, buffalo and lions as you journey through Serengeti and Chobe – just a few of the many you’ll visit!, Listen to the songs and stories of Namibia’s San people, the oldest inhabitants of Southern Africa, and gain an insight into their traditional customs and beliefs., Visit a workshop where local women transform snares set by poachers into beautiful jewellery inspired by the African landscape, with proceeds supporting conservation efforts., Wild camp on a remote island deep in the Okavango Delta. As night falls, listen to the sounds of the bush coming alive., Chill out on the white sands of Zanzibar’s northern beaches after spending a night exploring the winding alleyways of Stone Town.

Group leader

On this trip you will be accompanied by three crew members - Group Leader, Cook and Driver who will usually be Kenyan.

Your Group Leader’s role involves organizing the overall operation and smooth-running of the trip, managing trip logistics, coordinating the tipping kitty (where applicable) and will form work groups to take turns cooking, cleaning and shopping. (From time to time your leader may drive as well)

Your Group Leader will work towards making the trip as safe and enjoyable as possible for all travellers. Intrepid trips are built around the co–operation and participation of all the group members under the supervision of the group leader. The group leader will show the group how to set up and use the equipment.

While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting, especially when tracking and identifying game - we think it's the best of both worlds. Regardless of the country of origin, our Group Leaders are chosen for their leadership skills and are wonderful ambassadors for our company and our beautiful continent and its people.

Your Cook is responsible for the cooking and will help to coordinate the work groups for preparing the meals and washing up! Cooks are also responsible for organizing food shopping (they are always happy to have you on board) and most importantly, they make sure high hygiene standards are kept at all times while camping.

Your Driver’s main responsibility is to get you to your destination safely; they are also responsible for the maintenance of the vehicles along the way.

Everyone is expected to participate and carry their share of the workload/duties, making camp chores easier. The duties Rota system is adopted where all members share in general camp duties – cooking, shopping, washing up etc.
If the whole group participates it will be quicker, easier, and more fun.

We endeavour to provide the services of an experienced leader and crew; however, situations may arise where your leader is new to a particular region or training other group leaders.

Safety

FREE TIME & OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
Your group leader or local representative will accompany you on all included activities; however, during your trip, you'll have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your group leader or local representative will assist you with the available options in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your Intrepid itinerary, and Intrepid makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time. Please also note that your group leader or local representative has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns.

INTREPID SAFETY STANDARDS
For more details on the type of conditions and safety standards you can expect on your trip, please refer to Intrepid's operational safety policy on our website. We recommend that you take a moment to read through this information before travelling, and would appreciate any feedback on how well it's being implemented in the field:

www.intrepidtravel.com/safety-guidelines

, UNFENCED CAMPSITES
On some trips you will at times stay in unfenced campsites within National Parks. While this is a fantastic experience, there are a few safety rules to follow. While staying in National Parks it's important that you listen to any advice given by your group leader or local representative and the park rangers regarding responsible and safe behaviour., LGBTQIA+ TRAVELLERS IN TANZANIA
Same-sex relationships are illegal in Tanzania (including Zanzibar) and are not tolerated in Tanzania’s conservative society. Same-sex public displays of affection, like holding hands or kissing in public, could lead to arrest and up to 30 years’ imprisonment. LGBTQIA+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Tanzania, and refer to your government's official travel advisories for the most up-to-date advice before you travel., BILHARZIA
Bilharzia is a parasitical disease which is usually spread by swimming in contaminated water. It can be assumed that the infection is present, to a greater or lesser extent, in almost all water sources, but most especially in shallow reedy waters in the vicinity of villages.

Although the adult parasites do not themselves cause a great deal of harm, after about 4-6 weeks they start to lay eggs, which triggers an intense but usually ineffective immune response, the symptoms of which can include fever, cough, abdominal pain, and an itchy skin complaint known as safari itch. After a while the symptoms settle down and the patient is left with a sense of feeling tired all the time.

Visas

PASSPORT
You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date.

We need your passport information to get everything ready for your trip so it’s important that the information on your booking matches your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends.

VISAS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your trip and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your trip. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the entry requirements for your nationality on your government's foreign travel advisories, consular websites or on our page here:  www.intrepidtravel.com/visa-entry-requirements, Starting October 1, 2024, all foreign non-residents travelling to Zanzibar and its surrounding islands are required to purchase mandatory Inbound Travel Insurance from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation. The cost is USD 44 per person, and USD 22 for children aged 17 and under. This insurance applies to all travellers, regardless of any existing coverage, and is valid for stays of up to 92 days.

You can apply and pay for the insurance before departure using the following link: https://visitzanzibar.go.tz/

, INFORMATION FOR VISA APPLICATIONS:

If you require an address for Visa Applications in Zambia, please use:

Eureka Camping Park
10kms South of Lusaka City centre, on the Kafue Road,
Tel: (+260 211) 272351 or 278110
Fax: (+260 211) 272351
E-mail: eurekacamp.zm@gmail.com

If you require an address for Visa Applications in Tanzania, please use:

Kibo Palace Hotel
PO Box 2523
Old Moshi Road
Arusha - Tanzania
Phone: +255 272544472

If you require a contact number for Visa Applications in Tanzania, please use:
Intrepid Tanzania: +254 758 555 550 or +254 758 555 551

If you require host contact information for Visa Applications in Tanzania, please use:

Host name/ Company Name: Intrepid Travel Tanzania Ltd
Company Registration no: 77032
Physical address: P.O. Box 6101, Arusha
Email: opseastafrica@intrepidtravel.com
Phone Number: +255 754 474 792

LETTER OF INVITATION

KENYA / TANZANIA:

If you require a letter of invitation or a list of hotel confirmations, please contact your booking agent, and we will issue one tailored to your specific tour and departure.

MALAWI:

If you need a letter of invitation or hotel confirmation for your visa application, please contact your booking agent.

Travellers should contact evisa.support@immigration.gov.mw to apply for visa letters.

BORDER CROSSINGS ON THIS TRIP:

Exit South Africa - Vioolsdrift (Day 3)
Enter Namibia - Noodower

Exit Namibia - Muhembo (Day 16)
Enter Botswana - Mohembo

Exit Botswana - Mohembo (Day 18)
Enter Namibia - Muhembo

Exit Namibia - Ngoma (Day 19)
Enter Botswana - Ngoma

Exit Botswana - Kazungula (Day 21)
Enter Zimbabwe - Kazungula

Exit Zimbabwe - Chirundu (Day 28)
Enter Zambia - Chirundu

Exit Zambia - Mwami(Day 32)
Enter Malawi - Mchinji

Exit Malawi - Songwe (Day 35)
Enter Tanzania - Kasumulu

Exit Tanzania - Namanga (Day 49)
Enter Kenya - Namanga, NAMIBIA:

If you require a letter of invitation or list of hotel confirmations for your visa application, please contact your booking agent, and we will issue one tailored to your specific tour and departure., CHILDREN TRAVELLING TO BOTSWANA
If you’re travelling to Botswana with a person under the age of 18, then you need to provide a certified copy of the child’s full unabridged birth certificate in order to enter the country. This means the one listing the child’s details and both parents’ details. The short birth certificate which only lists the child’s details won’t be accepted.

Additionally, if the child is travelling with only one parent, with neither biological parent, or is unaccompanied, then they must provide an affidavit of consent of the parent(s) that are not travelling to prove that the trip is made with both parents' consent. Please contact your nearest Botswanan Embassy if you have further questions regarding this.

Last modified (date)

Information not available.

Validity

Validity: 01 Apr 2026 to 31 Dec 2026

Additional Information

Health

GENERAL HEALTH
All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell prior to travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements.

When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. Please note that if in the assessment of our group leader or local representative a traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund.

You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements. 
, YELLOW FEVER:
A valid international certificate of vaccination against Yellow Fever is required in many countries if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever (eg. Kenya). You may need to present this on arrival at the airport or border crossing. Some countries will refuse entry if you are unable to present your certificate. It's also quite common for your home country to request a Yellow Fever certificate on your arrival back home.

It is your responsibility to check with your doctor well in advance of leaving home about the Yellow Fever requirements for the countries you'll be visiting.
, MALARIA & DENGUE
Malaria and Dengue are mosquito-borne diseases commonly found in many parts of Africa. Before you travel, discuss your itinerary with a doctor and monitor your government foreign travel advice for up-to-date information on risk levels in particular areas. To reduce your risk of mosquito bites, protect yourself by using insect repellent and wearing long, loose, light-coloured clothing.

Malaria symptoms typically appear 7–30 days after infection and may include fever, chills, headache, and fatigue. Doctors can prescribe medication to help prevent Malaria, so it’s important to consult your healthcare provider before travelling.

Dengue symptoms generally emerge 4–10 days after being bitten. These may include high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, nausea, and rash. As there is no specific medication for Dengue prevention, avoiding mosquito bites is key.

If you develop symptoms of Malaria or Dengue while travelling or after returning home, seek medical attention straight away.
, DRINKING WATER:
As a rule we recommend you don't drink tap water, even in hotels, as it contains much higher levels of different minerals than the water you may have at home. For local people this is not a problem as their bodies are used to this and can cope, but for visitors drinking the tap water can result in illness. Generally this isn't serious, an upset stomach being the only symptom, but it's enough to spoil a day or two of your holiday. Bottled water is widely available and your leader can recommend safe alternatives when available. Water consumption should be about three litres a day. Rehydration salts, motion sickness tablets, and diarrhoea blockers are available from many pharmacies., TSETSE FLY:
It is best to avoid dark coloured clothes such as blue and black while on safari. These colours can attract the biting tsetse fly., TYPHOID:
It’s recommended that travellers to Zimbabwe ensure their typhoid vaccinations are up to date. Cases of typhoid continue to occur in parts of the country, particularly in urban areas where sanitation and water supply can be inconsistent. For the most up-to-date information, please consult your doctor or visit the World Health Organization (WHO) website., MPOX
Mpox is a rare infectious disease mostly found in tropical rainforest areas of Central and West Africa. There are currently no local or worldwide travel restrictions related to Mpox and the risk to travellers remains low. Some countries may have Mpox screening measures in place, including body temperature checks, at points of entry. 

Travellers in countries where Mpox has been detected are advised to take precautions such as minimising potential of skin to skin contact in crowded areas, washing hands thoroughly and frequently, and maintaining good personal hygiene. 

Food and dietary requirements

By travelling on an Overland trip you have chosen a participation camping tour. This means that you will be helping your cook prepare meals for the group. You may also get the chance to help with the shopping.

Your cook will come up with meal ideas and quantities needed for large groups. Participating in the camp is usually done on a duty roster system with group of 5 or 6 people (depending on group size) having a different camp job each day.

If you have any dietary requirements please tell us at the time of booking, and also remind your crew at your welcome meeting.

A typical camp breakfast might be toast with spreads, cereal, something hot such as eggs or pancakes, as well as tea and coffee. Lunch is almost always a sandwich with healthy salad and assorted fillings, sometimes with fruit to follow. On occasion there will be the opportunity to buy your lunch to allow you try the local cuisine or provide some variety to sandwiches. Dinner might be a BBQ, rice dish or pasta dish and there is always the chance to try some African food such as ugali and stew.

Clean drinking water is provided on your overland truck and can be accessed at all times. Your crew will use this to cook and provide cordial at meal times. Please do not hesitate to use this water to minimise the consumption of plastic water bottles. Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are not part of included meals.

One thing is sure - you definitely won't go hungry or lose weight on your safari! When you aren't camping you will have the freedom to decide where, what and with whom you eat.

Money matters

SPENDING MONEY
When it comes to spending money on the trip, every traveller is a little different. You know your spending habits better than we do, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals, drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry. Make sure you have read the itinerary and inclusions thoroughly so you know what is included in the trip price and what you may need to pay for while travelling. , CREDIT CARDS, ATMS AND EXCHANGING MONEY
ATMs are available in most major towns and cities and even some campsites. Withdrawal limits vary between countries, sometimes as low as USD 100 per day, and will differ from your withdrawal limit at home. Smaller shops and restaurants only accept cash. Foreign currency is easily changed at exchange bureaus, who generally offer the best rates. If you are bringing USD cash we strongly recommend large bills in good condition, 2013 series onwards only. Any old or damaged notes may not be accepted.

Credit cards are generally accepted in tourist shops and some restaurants across Africa. Visa and Mastercard are preferred. 

If you're on a multi-country trip, your leader will be able to give you an approximate idea of how much money you may need in each country.
, MEALS NOT INCLUDED
Please review your Itinerary for which meals are included. For meals that aren’t included, we recommend budgeting USD 15 – 35 per lunch and USD 20 – 50 per dinner., BOTSWANA
The unit of currency is the pula (BWP), which is divided into 100 thebe. The pula is a strong currency and any excess currency can easily be exchanged in Johannesburg. Banks, hotels and major curio shops in Botswana accept some major international credit cards, although camps and lodges in the region will only accept payment for bar bills, laundry, etc in local or foreign currency (cash). We recommend you travel with US dollars., MONEY IN ZIMBABWE:
Zimbabwe has its own currency, the Zimbabwe dollar. However, obtaining this currency can be challenging, and there can be long lineups to exchange money at banks. On-ground expenses such as lunches and market purchases must be settled in Zimbabwe dollars or by using a credit card. Visas on arrival can be paid in USD and most optional activities require payment in USD. Make sure to bring small denominations as immigration officers and local businesses may not be able to provide change. It's important to plan your travel expenses in advance and bring enough USD into the country to cover your stay. Your tour leader or local representative will be available to offer guidance on this issue if needed.

, TIPPING
Tipping can be an appropriate way to recognise great service when travelling. While it may not be customary in your home country, it is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many of our destinations and is greatly appreciated by the people who take care of you during your travels. It is always best to avoid tipping with coins, very small denomination notes, or dirty and ripped notes, as this can be regarded as an insult rather than the goodwill gesture it is intended to be., OPTIONAL TIPPING KITTY
On Day 1 of your trip, your group leader or local representative may discuss with you the idea of operating a group tipping kitty, whereby everybody contributes an equal amount and your group leader or local representative distributes tips for drivers, local guides, hotel staff and other services included on your trip. Participation in this kitty is your choice, and you are welcome to manage your own tipping separately if you prefer.

The group leader or local representative will keep a running record of all monies spent, which can be checked at any time. Any funds remaining at the end of the trip will be returned to group members. These tips to suppliers are for great service and are in addition to the regular costs paid for the services supplied.

The tipping kitty excludes tips for your group leader or local representative., Optional tipping kitty from Cape Town to Victoria Falls: USD 22 per person (can be paid in local currency).

Optional tipping kitty from Victoria Falls to Stone Town: USD 10 per person (can be paid in local currency).

From Stone Town to Nairobi, we recommend budgeting approximately USD 10 per traveller per week to tip local service providers for activities included in this trip. This doesn’t include a tip for your leader or crew., YOUR GROUP LEADER OR LOCAL REPRESENTATIVE
Tipping your group leader or local representative is highly appreciated if you feel they’ve provided outstanding services throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however, as a guideline, the recommended amount is 4-7 USD or EUR per traveller per day (in a currency relevant to your destination). Of course, you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length and involvement of your group leader or local representative on your trip., ADDITIONAL CREW
You may have additional crew on your trip, such as a local guide, driver or cook. We recommend tipping each person USD 2 – 4 per person per day (in a currency relevant to your destination)., CONTINGENCY FUNDS
We try to plan for every eventuality, but there are still some things beyond our control. We reserve the right to change an itinerary after departure due to local circumstances or a Force Majeure Event. In such emergency circumstances, the additional cost of any necessary itinerary alterations will be covered by you. Please note we are not responsible for any incidental expenses that may be incurred as a result of the change of itineraries including but not limited to visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights. Make sure you have access to an extra US$500 for emergencies (e.g. severe weather, natural disasters, civil unrest) or other events that result in unavoidable changes to the itinerary (e.g. transport strikes or cancellations, airport closures). Sometimes these things necessitate last-minute changes to enable our trips to continue to run, and as a result, there may be some extra costs involved. The recommended amount is listed in USD for the relatability of universal travellers, however, local currency may be needed once in the country to cover these costs., COMMISSIONS
Intrepid understands that the receipt of commissions in exchange for recommending particular shops or services is ingrained in the culture of the tourism industry. For this reason, we have established a centralised fund for contributions from recommended suppliers so these can be collected and distributed back into the business. Actively managing the receipt of commissions helps us maintain the level of quality you expect on one of our trips. Travel is always an adventure so Intrepid cannot explicitly guarantee the quality of a product but we aim to provide the best value trips in the market. Please let us know via the feedback form completed after your trip if we are successfully meeting - or exceeding - this objective.

What to take

LUGGAGE LIMIT
The luggage weight limit is maximum 20kg per person, but we recommend packing as lightly as possible. Day bags with items you'll need throughout the day/drives (phones, money, sunscreen, water bottles, etc.) can be stored near your seat on the overhead shelf or, on some trucks, in pockets in the seat in front of you. Each traveller will have a locker on the truck to store valuables like passports and items that you don't need during the drive. Locker sizes vary by truck, with an average size of 18 inches wide, 10 inches high, and 26 inches deep. You will need to bring your own lock. We recommend a 20-30mm sized padlock. Larger luggage can be stored in the compartments under the truck, but you won’t have access to it until you set up camp. We recommend backpacks or duffel bags, as large framed suitcases can be difficult to fit, especially when the truck is at full capacity. Please contact your booking consultant if you think you will have issues with this luggage limitation.

CLOTHING
- Lightweight, long shirts and pants for protection against the sun and insects.
- Comfortable clothing for hot weather; shorts, t-shirts, activewear.
- Closed-toed comfortable walking shoes to protect your feet in wilderness areas and campsites.
- Water shoes or sandals suitable for wearing in the shower and during water activities.
- Light waterproof/windproof jacket for rain and wind.
- Fleece or jumper/sweater for cooler mornings/evenings.
- Sun protection – sunglasses and securable sunhat.
- Swimming costume.
- Sarong, scarf, or buff for dusty roads and cooler temps.
- Nightwear, especially if travelling on twin-share.
- Beanie.

TOILETRIES & PERSONAL CARE
- Sunscreen - biodegradable, reef-safe, and waterproof if available.
- Biodegradable shampoo, conditioner, soap, detergent, etc.
- Toiletries - toothbrush, toothpaste, razor, nail clippers, etc.
- Towel or travel towel.
- Tropical strength insect repellent.
- Personal medical kit. Your guide will carry a large kit, but we recommend you carry items such as mild painkillers, electrolytes, anti-diarrhea, antibacterial gel, wet wipes, after-sun, band aids/plasters, etc.
- Antiseptic hand sanitizer.

ELECTRONICS
- Power bank or spare batteries.
- Charging cords and necessary adapters for the countries you're visiting.
- Head torch (recommended) or flashlight.

LUGGAGE & SLEEPING GEAR
- A smaller backpack to take with you on day excursions.
- Sleeping bag: A 3-4 season from June to August, or if you are traveling to desert and mountainous regions due to colder temperatures. Otherwise, a two-season sleeping bag should suffice. Available for hire (pre-booked at least 14 days before departure).
- Pillow or travel pillow.
- Sleep sheet which can be used in addition to your sleeping bag for extra warmth or used alone if it’s hot.
- Overnight bag to take 2 days' worth of luggage on your Okavango Delta portion of the itinerary.

OTHER ITEMS
- Reusable water bottle (min 1 litre). Our vehicles have large tanks of treated water to refill bottles.
- Camera.

OPTIONAL EXTRAS
- Camping mat (in addition to the one provided) for added comfort.
- String and pegs for drying handwashed clothes.
- Reusable dry bags to keep your belongings and clothes dry.
- Binoculars.
- Earplugs

TOP TIPS
- Ex-military or military style clothing and equipment is NOT recommended.
- Pack layers to add or remove as the temperatures fluctuate throughout the day.
- Wear neutral-colored clothing while on safari to blend in with the environment and avoid disturbing wildlife.
- Account for your personal temperature preferences—if you tend to run hot or cold, pack accordingly to stay comfortable.

LAUNDRY
Some campsites located on hotel grounds offer laundry services, but this is not guaranteed due to limited time and availability on overland tours in Africa. Be prepared to handwash your clothes at campsites, as most provide simple facilities for this. We recommend bringing non-polluting, biodegradable soap and a roll of string to create a drying line for your clothes. If you arrive late in the afternoon or face poor weather, drying your clothes completely may not be possible. Laundry services may also be available at your start/end hotel for a fee.

VALUABLES
Please try to avoid bringing unnecessary valuables, and use your hotel safe and the safe on the overland truck to store the bulk of your money, passport, and airline tickets. It’s also a good idea to purchase a money belt or pouch that is easily hidden. We strongly recommend that you photocopy all important documents e.g. air tickets, passport, vaccination certificate, etc. and keep the copies separate from the originals. While not valid, a photocopy makes it very much easier to obtain replacements if necessary.

POWER
Our overland vehicles are equipped with UK socket power outlets at each seat to use while on the road. Some camps will have powered sites to charge your devices when not on the road. We also recommend power banks and multi country power converters.

DRESS CONSIDERATIONS FOR WOMEN AND GENDER-DIVERSE TRAVELLERS
In certain parts of Africa, we recommend women and gender-diverse travellers dress in a way that respects local customs and traditions. While there’s a wide range of cultural practices, we recommend packing a few items like skirts or shorts that reach just above the knee, tops that cover the shoulders, or cover-ups when stepping off the beach in coastal areas. Your leader will be able to advise you on when it is appropriate to dress more conservatively. , PLASTIC BAG BANS
To reduce single use plastic, many countries in Africa have banned the import and use of plastic bags. Your luggage may be searched upon entry. Exceptions will be made for plastics that are essential for health and hygiene. We recommend obtaining reusable waterproof bags prior to entry for things like dirty laundry.

Climate and seasonal

Cape Town has warm, dry summers (December to February) with temperatures from 15°C to 26°C (59°F to 79°F) and cooler, wet winters (June to August) between 7°C and 18°C (45°F to 64°F).

Namibia is hot in summer (November to March), with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C (68°F to 95°F) and cooler, dry winters (June to August) between 5°C and 25°C (41°F to 77°F).

The Okavango region of Botswana is hot in summer (November to March), with temperatures from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F) and cooler winters (June to August) between 5°C and 25°C (41°F to 77°F).

Zimbabwe experiences warm summers (December to February) with temperatures between 20°C and 33°C (68°F to 91°F) and cooler winters (June to August) ranging from 4°C to 25°C (39°F to 77°F).

Zambia experiences hot, wet summers (November to April) with temperatures between 25°C and 35°C (77°F to 95°F), and mild, dry winters (May to August) when daytime temperatures average 15°C to 27°C (59°F to 81°F) and nights can be cool.

Malawi has warm, wet summers (November to March) with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) and cooler, dry winters (June to August) between 10°C and 25°C (50°F to 77°F).

Tanzania experiences hot, wet summers (November to March) with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C (68°F to 95°F) and mild, dry winters (June to August) between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F).

Kenya has warm, wet summers (November to March) with temperatures from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) and cooler, dry winters (June to August) ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F).

A couple of rules

Intrepid won't tolerate any kind of violence, harassment (whether physical, verbal or sexual), or disrespect toward fellow travellers, our teams or local communities.

To ensure the wellbeing of everyone on the trip, decisions made by your group leader are final.

Romantic relationships between travellers and group leader or local representative are not permitted while on trip.

Any behaviour that prevents your leader from continuing the itinerary as planned, breaks local laws or opposes any of these guidelines may result in Intrepid denying your booking or removing you from the trip.

If something concerns you during your travels, please speak to your group leader immediately. Alternatively, you can contact us on the emergency contact number detailed in the Problems and Emergency Contact Information section of this Essential Trip Information.

Accommodation notes

Accommodation on this trip is mainly in two-person canvas dome tents with camping mattresses supplied.

The type and variety of accommodation are determined by conditions on each of our routes. Each route is different - on some, we use a mixture of campsites and wild camps; on others, we also use hotels. In Africa, it's not usually practical to camp when staying in towns and cities, so we use hotel accommodations and eat out in local restaurants.

There may be the occasional night stop when we stay on the grounds of a hotel or at a campsite, which may also have rooms/cabins available. In this case, there may be a choice of camping or upgrading to a room. Rooms cost approximately USD 40-100 per room per night for a twin room and cannot be pre-booked. Standards of these rooms vary greatly, and we recommend viewing the room before purchasing the night's accommodation. The day-by-day itinerary advises when upgrades may be possible (subject to availability).

Keep in mind that if we are staying in dormitory accommodation, you may have to share with other passengers or be split into same-sex rooms.

Campsites do have facilities, but they usually aren't to the same standard you would find in Western countries. For example, the bathroom facilities can be very basic. Toilet paper is rarely provided, and shower facilities can be as simple as a hose pipe spurting out cold water. Wild camps have no facilities at all.

At times, there may be spare tents in the vehicles. Unfortunately, these cannot be used without the purchase of a single supplement. This is to ensure the tents avoid wear and tear or are clean and ready for the customers arriving on the next section of the trip.

Transport notes

Our trucks are purpose-built, self contained safari vehicles. Our fleet of vehicles varies depending on your group size, trip route and style. Your vehicle type may differ from those listed above. It is also important to note that our overland vehicles are not air-conditioned, but all vehicles have windows that can be opened to allow for fresh air. Each seat will have access to a power socket to charge your devices. This outlet will use a UK/Kenyan 3 pronged outlet.

There are many early starts with long hours spent driving on rough roads on all African itineraries. While most people love the chance to watch the changing landscape and daily village life, feedback shows that long periods of inactivity does not appeal to all clients. We provide the approximate distance covered each day and how many hours this normally takes to drive so that you can choose the safari experience that is right for you.

African conditions are extremely tough on vehicles. While we fastidiously maintain our vehicles at our workshops, you should not expect Africa to be your traditional touring experience. While it's certainly our aim to avoid them, it's important that you set off on your trip knowing that the occasional breakdown can happen and are best treated as part of the African adventure. Due to wet weather there may be times when we have to take an alternative route which will mean longer travel times., South Africa has a law whereby the cross border transport agency does not allow foreign-registered vehicles to enter the country. We will be working with a local South African operator for the South African section of this tour who will be providing the services of an alternative vehicle* and driver vetted by Intrepid. Your Intrepid leader and cook will still accompany you on this section and your itinerary will remain unaffected.

*The vehicle used on this section will be an overland vehicle similar in style to an Intrepid vehicle. However for smaller groups which don't require a large vehicle, smaller land cruiser style vehicles may be used.

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory on all our trips for those travelling internationally. We require that, at a minimum, you are covered for medical expenses, including emergency repatriation. If you are travelling within your home country or region, please confirm before travel that you are entitled to access the public medical system easily should an accident occur. We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international trips, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24-hour emergency contact number has been sighted by your group leader or local representative.

If you have credit card insurance, your group leader or local representative will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number, rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country.

For travellers who reside within the European Union, Switzerland or the USA, the requirement to purchase travel insurance cannot be compulsory. However, the purchase of travel insurance is still highly recommended, and each country you visit may have its own specific entry requirements. For example, some mandate travel health insurance for all foreign travellers, regardless of their nationality. Travellers from the European Union, Switzerland or the USA who decline travel insurance when travelling outside their home region must sign a Travel Insurance Waiver Form at the Group Meeting, recognizing personal responsibility for emergency medical and repatriation costs should they arise.

For assistance with travel insurance or other services, please visit the link below:
, https://www.intrepidtravel.com/booking-resources/our-services, PLEASE NOTE: Some travel insurance policies are not recognised by some Namibian hospitals; you should check with your provider if their product is accepted in Namibia before you travel and seek alternative coverage where necessary.

Your fellow travellers

As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip prior to departure., SOLO TRAVELLERS
On our trips, rooming is organised on a twin-share basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender, as per the gender marker on each of their passports.

We also offer an optional single supplement on most trips for travellers who prefer to have their own room. This only applies to accommodation during the tour. Pre-trip and post-trip accommodation booked through us will always be on a single-room basis.

On a small selection of trips some accommodation will be open-gender and multishare, such as a felucca in Egypt or an overnight train in Vietnam. Please review the Accommodation section of the Essential Trip Information for details about your trip.

LGBTQIA+ TRAVELLERS
We strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. If your gender identity differs from what is indicated on your passport, please contact us so that we can discuss rooming options with you.

Itinerary disclaimer

ITINERARY CHANGES
Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway and has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns.
, OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist.

Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk., ROAD CONDITIONS AND INFRASTRUCTURE IN AFRICA:
Roads in Africa are often in very poor condition, which makes it hard on our vehicles. Our vehicles are serviced regularly and are generally in good condition, but breakdowns can and do happen. Sometimes the going on this trip is quite tough, the distances covered fairly large and some of the roads and tracks are not exactly smooth or free from dust, but the rewards are exceptional. The travelling times indicated in our Essential Trip Information is just a rough guide and is dependent on various factors that may be outside our control, such as road conditions, weather and time spent at borders.

DRIVE TIMES:
The travel times listed in the day to day itinerary are a guide only. Please be aware that delays may occur and please be patient - it's all part of the experience afterall! Additionally, the travel times do not include time spent on game drives as these can vary with each departure., URBAN ADVENTURES:
Join us for the Best. Day. Ever. Urban Adventures are for those who want to get away from the tourist crowds and really connect with a city, with a local by their side. The experience can be as short as a couple of hours, or as long as a whole day, but in every case our Urban Adventures tours take travellers to interesting places to experience local culture and see what makes a place unique. If you are travelling before or after your trip with us and would like to book an Urban Adventure in advance, please contact your booking agent or use this link: http://www.urbanadventures.com/?aff=2226. While on tour with us, your leader can assist in booking other Urban Adventures.