55 Day Cape Town to Kenya with Gorillas Lodge Tour

Below is the basic day to day brief,

The Full downloadable Itinerary is at the bottom of this window,

Please download the dossier should you want more detailed information on the route and tour.

Day 1:  Cape Town - Cederberg

Our overland tour begins in Cape Town and we stop to look at Table Mountain from Table Bay. Travelling north we pass through the spectacular Cederberg Mountains, home to the delicious Rooibos tea - a herbal beverage.

Included Highlight:  Traditional Dinner

Meals:  Lunch & Dinner

Day 2:  Gariep River (Orange River)

After breakfast we head for our next destination – the Orange River. En route we pass through Namaqualand, which is famous for its spring flowers. The river was originally called the Gariep River (River of Hope) by the local indigenous people. The river is the longest in South Africa and forms a natural border between Namibia and South Africa. Our accommodation is on the banks of the river.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3:  Orange River – Fish River Canyon

The morning is at your leisure and you can choose to take a morning canoe trip or alternatively relax at camp, soak up the sun and swim in the river. After lunch we make our way north to the Fish River Canyon. The Fish River Canyon is the second largest in the world and has spectacular landscapes and views. We enjoy a late afternoon walk along the rim of the canyon – have your cameras ready. We overnight at Ais-Ais where you have an opportunity to enjoy the hot springs.

Included Highlight:  Ais Ais Hot Springs

Optional Activity:  Half day canoe trip

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4:  Fish River Canyon to Giants Playground

An early start and drive to the rim of Fish River Canyon. We then turn west and head for Keetmanshoop. Our afternoon we spend meandering through the Quiver Tree Forest and Giants Playground. We spend the night in a local guesthouse.

Included Highlights: Scenic walk along the rim of Fish River Canyon, visit to Quiver Tree forest and Giants Playground

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5:  Namib Naukluft National Park 

Today we venture deeper in to the Namib Desert. We travel through to dune fields that cover the awe-inspiring desert. Going from grasslands to stunning red dunes and changing terrains. Tonight we camp under the stars and fall asleep on the doorstep of the dune fields.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6:  Namib Naukluft National Park – Sossusvlei

A very early start so we can enjoy a spectacular sunrise over the desert. Those with energy can climb the famous Dune 45 and enjoy a view across the immense sand dunes of the desert. The sunrise provides amazing contrasts of shadows across the dunes and is a photographer's dream. We head further into the desert to Sossusvlei. There is time to explore the Dead Vlei – with its ancient trees and amazing sand dunes. After an exciting day we head back to camp where the night boasts a spectacular blanket of bright stars across the African sky.

Included Highlight:  Sesriem Canyon, Hike up Dune 45, 4x4 shuttle to Sossusvlei/Deadvlei

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7:  Swakopmund

We start our day by joining a local expert for an informative desert excursion before we continue north to Swakopmund – the desert capital. En route we stop at the Tropic of Capricorn as well as Walvis Bay to see the resident flamingos. Swakopmund is a welcome break after the harshness of the desert. It is also the adventure capital of the desert and there are many optional activities to choose from.

Included Highlight:  Tropic of Capricorn, Walvis Bay Lagoon, Guided Desert walk with local expert

Optional Activities: Sand boarding, Quad Biking, Sky Diving, Scenic flight, Deep Sea Fishing

Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 8:  Swakopmund

Today is spent at your leisure and pleasure. You can partake in one of the many desert activities on offer or you can take in the town, enjoy lunch and stock up on personal provisions for the remaining tour.

Optional Activities: See Day 7

Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 9:  Spitzkoppe - Brandberg

We leave the coastline and head for the Spitzkoppe, which stands out prominently on the flat landscape. The Spitzkoppe is known for its huge granite boulders and large number of Bushmen paintings. The afternoon is spent exploring this moon like landscape taking in the ancient Bushmen paintings with a local guide, or one can go boulder climbing. We spend the evening at Brandberg.

Included Highlight:  Visit and explore Spitzkoppe

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 10:  Brandberg White Lady

The highest mountains in Namibia, The Brandberg ( Burning Mountains) where we visit the celebrated White lady rock painting. The painting is estimated at over 2000 years old. We then travel to the area of Kamanjab. For those of us interested in the fascinating culture and traditions of the Himba tribe have the chance to take part in a Himba excursion this afternoon to an educational centre.

Optional Activity: Himba Tribe Visit

Included Highlight: Brandberg White Lady hike

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 11 & 12:  Etosha National Park

An early morning sees us making the short transfer to Etosha National Park where we set off on our first safari game drive. The next two days are spent exploring this magnificent game reserve. Etosha is known for its abundance of elephant and predators. The waterholes are frequented by many species of animals and one can expect to encounter huge herds of zebra, antelope and giraffes. Game viewing is generally very good as the sparse vegetation allows for excellent sightings of a wide range of animals.

Included Highlight:  Game drives

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner on both days

Day 13:  Windhoek

The day begins as we head for Windhoek – the capital of Namibia. Arriving in Windhoek in the late afternoon, there is more than enough time to explore the city with its German heritage.

Included Highlight: Walk through Windhoek with our guide

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 14:  Ghanzi – Botswana

Today we leave Namibia and cross the border into Botswana. After we set up camp at Ghanzi  - located in the Kalahari Desert- we have an opportunity to interact with the local San tribe by taking an insightful walk with their community. In the evening we experience seeing some traditional dancing around the camp fire.

Included Highlight:  San tribal dancing, San walk

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 15 & 16:  Okavango Delta

This morning we make our way to Maun – the gateway to the Okavango Delta. On route we pass many local villages. The Okavango Delta is Botswana’s most popular destination.  It is the world’s largest inland delta and is home to a large range of wildlife and birdlife. There is an opportunity to do a scenic flight over the Delta. The next morning we are driven by safari vehicles to our poling station where we take a mokoro trail through the reed lined waterways on search for wildlife such as elephant, giraffe, kudu, impala and zebra.

Included Highlight: Okavango Delta Excursion

Optional Activity:  Scenic flight

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner on both days

Day 17:  Nata

After transferring back to Maun, we board our overland truck and head to Nata. En route we pass the edge of the Makgadikgadi Pans, many indigenous Baobab trees and may encounter wildlife in this huge protected area. We have the chance to do an afternoon guided game drive to the Nata Sanctuary.

Optional Activity: Makgadikgadi Salt Pans 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 18:  Chobe National Park

An early morning breakfast and we head for Kasane, a real frontier town on the banks of the Chobe River. On arrival we set off on an open vehicle game drive. Chobe is best known for its large herds of elephants and a high concentration of predators – notably lions. In the late afternoon we experience a safari boat cruise along the Chobe River. Hippos and crocodiles abound. One can also expect to see a variety of animals on the banks of the river, including elephant, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest and antelope. Have your cameras ready.

Included Highlight:  Chobe National Park safari boat cruise

Optional Activity: Chobe National Game Drive

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 19:  Victoria Falls - Zimbabwe

This morning we head for Victoria Falls – “The Smoke that Thunders”.  The falls are one of the seven natural wonders of the world and the expanse of falling water is absolutely spectacular. The spray from the waterfall creates a natural rain forest around the falls. In the afternoon we will visit the falls and take in this breath taking phenomenon.

Optional Activity: Visit the Vic Falls, Zambezi Sunset cruise, Bungee Jump, Helicopter Flights, White Water Rafting

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 20:  Victoria Falls

Today we have an opportunity to explore the Victoria Falls and surrounding area. Victoria Falls is well known as an adventure town and there is much to do. The Zambezi River offers some of the best white water rafting in the world. One can bungee jump, sky dive, take a scenic flight, browse the local craft markets or just take in the splendor of the Falls.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Optional Activities – Victoria Falls – some of the popular options    

• Bungee Jumping                          
• Sunset Zambezi cruise                 
• Full day White water rafting            
• Gorge swing                                  
• Helicopter Scenic flight                  

Day 21:  Victoria Falls – Lusaka

This morning we cross the Zambezi River and enter  Zambia – providing us with an opportunity to view the Victoria Falls for the final time. After the excitement of the Falls, we spend the next 2 days travelling through rural Zambia. We spend the evening on the outskirts of Lusaka.

Included Highlight: View of Victoria Falls from the bridge

Meals: Lunch & Dinner

Day 22:  Rural Zambia - Petauke

A fairly long day of travel waits as we travel east through rural Zambia. Along the way we will encounter colourful markets, traditional villages and subsistence farming.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 23:  South Luangwa National Park

Our first stop of the day is Chipata, an important trading town. Chipata is a textile town and is famous for its colourful African fabrics which are popular amongst the local population.  There is an opportunity to enjoy a quick tour of the workshops and dye houses.  (March - December).  We enjoy sunset overlooking the famous Luangwa River.

Included Highlight:  Textile project tour

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 24:  South Luangwa National Park

The day is spent exploring this famous National Park. In the morning we have an option to do either a morning safari or you can partake in a popular Big 5 walking safari. (the walking safari is seasonal).  This afternoon we enjoy a game drive that extends into the evening, providing us with an opportunity to spot some nocturnal animals.

Included Highlight:  Sunset Game Drive

Optional Activity:  Morning Game Drive or Safari Walk.

Morning: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 25: Zambia to Lake Malawi

An early start as we head for Malawi – The Warm Heart of Africa. Malawi is famous for its incredible fresh water lake.  The lake has more species of fresh water fish than any other lake, which many are found in fish tanks around the world. The Malawian people are known for their friendliness and openness, which all makes for an incredible country to spend time in. We spend the night on the shore of the lake.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Days 26, 27 and 28:  Lake Malawi

Today we travel north along the lake to our next stop where we will spend the next three nights soaking up the splendor of Malawi. The swimming and snorkeling are amazing and one can spend hours in the warm water. Malawi provides the ideal setting to relax (chill out in one of hammocks) and to explore the local villages. The people are welcoming and one can browse the local markets. We take some time to visit a Malawian Village.

Included Highlight:  Malawi Village Tour

Optional Activities:  Swimming, Snorkeling, Community Projects, Relax

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner on all days

Day 29:  Lake Malawi – Tanzania

After a relaxing time on the lake we say goodbye to Malawi, as we continue our journey north into Tanzania. We spend the evening in Iringa – a popular stop over for overland tours.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 30:  Mikumi National Park

Leaving Iringa, we head to Mikumi National Park, which is part the famous Selous National Park – the largest in Africa. The afternoon provides an opportunity for a game drive and an opportunity to spot more animals.

Included Highlight:  Mikumi National Park.

Optional Activity: Mikumi Game Drive

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 31:  Dar es Salaam

Leaving Makumi, we head to Dar es Salaam – the gate way to Zanzibar. Dar es Salaam is the largest city in Tanzania with a rapidly growing population and an important port in East Africa.

Included Highlight: Zanzibar Excursion

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Days 32 and 33:  Stone Town - Nungwi

This morning we enjoy a boat trip to Prison island, where slaves were detained in the past. We head north to Nungwi, renowned for its pristine beaches. We will spend the next couple of days relaxing, swimming, snorkeling, diving and soaking up the sun. Nungwi offers incredible beaches, and one can enjoy the local bars, restaurants and other activities. The snorkeling trip is highly recommended as the coral and sea life are incredible. Alternatively you can explore the local fishing villages or take in the turtle sanctuary.

Included Highlight:  Prison Island Boat trip, Jozani Forest

Optional Activities: Fishing, Snorkeling, Scuba Diving, Turtle Sanctuary Visit, Village Tours and more

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 34:  Bagamoyo

We say goodbye to the island and take the ferry back to Dar es Salaam and return to Bagamoyo where we stay the night.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 35:  Arusha

This morning we head north to the safari town of Arusha. En route we may get a glimpse of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Arusha is a bustling frontier town and is the gathering point for the Serengeti excursion.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 36:  Karatu

We spend the day travelling closer to Ngorongoro Crater. This morning, the guests who purchased the Serengeti upgrade will be picked up for the Serengeti excursion.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Optional Activities: Local Brewery Tour, Karatu Iragw Market, Local Coffee Plantation Tour

Day 37 & 38:  Ngorongoro Crater & Karatu

We get up bright and early and head for Ngorongoro Crater and we spend most of the day exploring the crater with it's wonderful wildlife. The next morning we take an early morning hike to the Elephant Caves.

Included Highlights: Full 4x4 excursion to Ngorongoro Crater and Elephant Caves Hike

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 39:  Arusha

As we return to Arusha we are once again joined by our fellow travellers that enjoyed the Serengeti Excursion.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 40:  Nairobi

Today we cross the border into Kenya and head to the bustling capital of Nairobi.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 41: Nairobi – Kenya

Today we can enjoy Nairobi at our own leisure.

Optional Activities: Giraffe Centre, Nairobi National Park

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 42: Masai Mara National Reserve

Today we leave Nairobi and make our way to the Masai Mara and it’s stunning landscape and scenery. Animals such as elephant, black rhino, buffalo, leopard, cheetah, wildebeest, zebra and gazelle. The visit is taken in safari type vehicles.

Included Highlight: Masai Mara Excursion

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 43: Masai Mara National Park

Today we have the opportunity to see some truly spectacular game for some great photo opportunities. We spend a full day game viewing.

Included Highlight: Masai Mara Excursion

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 44: Lake Nakuru National Park

This morning we leave the Mara and make our way to Lake Nakuru National Park where we join our tour truck again and we take an afternoon game drive through the park. We can see flamingos, pelicans, black & white rhino, leopard, lion and lots of buck.

Included Highlight: Lake Nakuru National Park Game Drive

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Days 45: Jinja

This morning we cross the border into Uganda and the Equator on our way to Jinja, the second biggest city of Uganda.

Included Highlight:  Crossing the Equator

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 46: Masindi – Murchison Falls National Park

Today we stop in Kampala and travel to Murchison Falls National Park. We settle into our accommodation in Masindi and we discuss the activities for the next day.

Optional Activity: Ziwa Rhino Walk

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 47: Masindi- Budongo Central Forest Reserve

Budongo Forest is the habitat to the most chimpanzees in Uganda and is the largest mahogany forest in East Africa. We meet our chimp guide who will take us on our exploration to search for chimps. We also experience an enjoyable boat cruise in the park.

Included Highlight:  Chimp Trekking Half day, Nile River Boat Cruise Half day

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 48: Lake Kikoringo Region

Today we travel to the edge of the Queen Elizabeth National Park and we overnight on a hill overlooking Lake Kikorongo

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Days 49: Gorillas (Lake Bunyoni)

Today we cross the Equator again and make our way down south to the stunning Lake Bunyoni. We get briefed on the Gorilla trekking excursion.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 50: Gorillas (Lake Bunyoni)

Today we may have the chance to do Gorilla trekking or go hiking or explore the area on a mountain bike.

Optional Activities: Pygmy Excursion, Gorilla Trekking, Rwanda Day Tour

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 51: Gorillas (Lake Bunyoni)

Today we will experience Gorilla trekking or visit a Pygmy village if we didn't get a chance the previous day

Optional Activities: Pygmy Excursion, Gorilla Trekking, Rwanda Day Tour

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 52: Lake Bunyoni - Kampala

This morning we make our way back to Kampala and cross the Equator again. This evening we are briefed on the following day’s activities.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 53: Jinja

We travel a short distance from Kampala to Jinja where there are loads of fun activities on offer.

Optional Activity:  Quad Biking, kayaking, rafting, horse riding

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 54: Kenya - Eldoret

Today we return to Kenya and take a trip to Eldoret.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 55: Nairobi

Today we bid farewell and our tour comes to an end in Nairobi.

Meals: Breakfast

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Note : Itineraries do change, please speak to your consultant for the latest up to date itinerary for your travel period .