East Africa Explorer (Accommodated)
ACCOMMODATED SAFARI: Discover the best of East Africa, from wildlife to beaches on this 24-day overland accommodated safari. Search for the Big Five in the Masai Mara, Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater. Enjoy a relaxing beach break in Zanzibar and then travel south, driving through Mikumi National Park and unwinding beside Lake Malawi. Journey via the Zambian capital of Lusaka before arriving in Livingstone, where you'll visit cascading Victoria Falls.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Welcome to East Africa
Day 1 Welcome to East Africa
Nairobi - Masai Mara. We leave Nairobi early this morning and make our way to the famous Masai Mara National Reserve. The Mara is adjacent to the Serengeti, forming one of the world's last surviving great wildernesses. We will be travelling in specialised safari vehicles for this part of the tour for a more intimate wildlife-viewing experience, and will join up with our main vehicle later. In the Masai Mara, we will be staying in twin-share pre-erected tents with ensuite facilities.
During our time in the Mara, we enjoy morning and afternoon game drives in search of the huge herds of wildebeest, zebra, and antelope which inhabit the plains and the predators that hunt them. Also keep your eyes peeled for other iconic species like rhino, elephant and giraffe. We camp on the edge of the reserve, close to the action!
Please note: The pre-departure meeting is held at 18:00 on the evening prior to departure. The tour departs at 08:00 on Day 1 so please arrive in Nairobi the day before your tour. Refer to the Joining Instructions in the Trip Notes for more information. We can book accommodation and transfers on request.
Day 2 Masai Mara
Day 2 Masai Mara
Today we continue exploring the Masai Mara with morning and afternoon game drives to different areas of the park. As well as the iconic Big Five, we will hopefully spot some of the less glamorous species, but creatures that are important to the ecosystem. Hyenas and vultures scavenge the remains of prey, warthogs scurry through the undergrowth and endangered African wild dogs hunt intelligently in packs. We break in the middle of the day for lunch before game driving back to our camp for the evening.
Day 3 Return to Nairobi
Day 3 Return to Nairobi
Masai Mara - Nairobi. Leaving the Mara, we travel back through the Great Rift Valley to Nairobi, where we spend the night.
Day 4 Crossing into Tanzania
Day 4 Crossing into Tanzania
Nairobi - Arusha (Tanzania). We leave Kenya, crossing into neighbouring Tanzania at the Namanga frontier. We then drive to the country's safari capital, Arusha, arriving late afternoon. Situated in the shadow of Mount Meru and close to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, it is a great base for exploring the region. If time allows, we stop to browse the local markets and join a walk around a traditional Masai village before heading to our accommodation at the Meserani Snake Park.
Day 5 The mighty Serengeti
Day 5 The mighty Serengeti
Arusha - Serengeti National Park. We leave our overland truck behind and transfer to designated safari vehicles this morning. Crossing the Great Rift Valley, we enter the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. We then drive around the rim of this spectacular UNESCO-listed crater and onto the wildlife-rich plains of the Serengeti. Serengeti derives from the Maasai word siringitu, which means "the place where the land moves on forever" and the scale of this wilderness is sure to impress as much as the wildlife you will inevitably see.
The Serengeti and neighbouring Masai Mara in Kenya play host to the annual migration of millions of wildebeest, zebra and antelope. These prey animals follow the rains and the freshest grass, stalked every step of the way by the lions, leopards, cheetahs and hyenas which feed on them. You are sure to have some amazing wildlife experiences today as we enjoy a game drive en route to our camp. We spend tonight at an unfenced campsite, where we can listen to the sounds of the bush and hopefully see some wildlife from our camp!
Days 6-7 Ngorongoro Crater
Days 6-7 Ngorongoro Crater
Serengeti National Park - Ngorongoro Crater - Arusha. Game driving out of the Serengeti on day 3, we can search for any species we have not managed to spot so far. We travel back to the Ngorongoro Crater, camping on the rim of this UNESCO-listed natural caldera, one of Africa's most spectacular wildlife areas.
On day 4 we get our chance to head into the crater itself, following the steep, winding road into the reserve. On our game drive, you will have the chance to spot every major African animal, except for giraffes who can't manage the steep climb down the crater rim!
Returning to camp for lunch, we pack up before making the journey back to Arusha and our overland safari vehicle.
Day 8 To the coast!
Day 8 To the coast!
Arusha - Bagamoyo. We begin our journey to Zanzibar today, heading towards the Indian Ocean coast. It's a long but scenic drive, and we pass Mount Kilimanjaro en route. If the weather is clear we should be able to enjoy magnificent views of the iconic snow-capped peak.
Our stop for tonight is the port town of Bagamoyo. It was founded towards the end of the 18th century and was an important trading port along the East African coast. Today it is a centre for dhow building, with many of the boats being sent to Zanzibar and nearby areas. We camp on the outskirts of the town, near the palm-fringed beaches of the Indian Ocean.
Day 9 Dar es Salaam
Day 9 Dar es Salaam
Bagamoyo - Dar es Salaam. Saying farewell to Bagamoyo we make the 2 - 3 hour drive along the coast to Dar es Salaam. This vibrant city is Tanzania's main port and a kaleidoscope of culture. Impressive Arab architecture and colourful markets give way to blissful beaches and turquoise ocean. We stay by the beach tonight before our excursion to Zanzibar.
Days 10-12 Paradise island of Zanzibar
Days 10-12 Paradise island of Zanzibar
Dar es Salaam - Zanzibar. On the morning of day 7, we take the ferry to Zanzibar, leaving our overland truck on the mainland. Evocative and exotic, Zanzibar conjures up images of idyllic, sandy, palm-fringed beaches, romantic winding cobbled alleys, and lush tropical forests.
Our time on Zanzibar is not too structured. There is plenty of free time to explore the old part of Zanzibar City - Stone Town. You'll also want to visit a spice plantation, spend some time on the tropical beaches and enjoy snorkelling at the coast, home to a wealth of marine life. Other optional excursions you can book include massages and yacht trips. Please see the Trip Notes for more details.
In Zanzibar we typically spend day 7 in Stone Town and days 8 and 9 at one of the northern beaches, but this can be flexible.
Day 13 Return to Dar es Salaam
Day 13 Return to Dar es Salaam
Zanzibar - Dar es Salaam. We have the morning to do any last-minute shopping or enjoy one last swim before catching the ferry back to Dar es Salaam and travelling on to our accommodation by the coast for the evening.
Day 14 Mikumi National Park
Day 14 Mikumi National Park
Dar es Salaam - Mikumi National Park. Making our way southwest, we head back inland and towards the border with Malawi. We'll be driving through Mikumi National Park for a large chunk of the day, and will hopefully see some of the wildlife that lives in Tanzania's fifth-largest game reserve.
Our accommodation for the night is right on the edge of the park and there is an optional additional game drive if you'd like to search further for elephants, giraffes, or the other species that call Mikumi home. Alternatively, you can relax in the local bar and restaurant, or enjoy an evening around the campfire.
Day 15 Iringa
Day 15 Iringa
Mikumi National Park - Iringa. Continuing our journey south, we pass through Baobab Valley, home to many of these ancient, swollen baobab trees. Reaching the town of Iringa, we end our journey at the Kisolanza Farm. This family-run business supplies Dar es Salaam with organic meat and vegetables and is a well-known stopover, located in the scenic Southern Highlands of Tanzania.
Days 16-17 Chitimba Beach, Lake Malawi
Days 16-17 Chitimba Beach, Lake Malawi
Iringa - Chitimba Beach, Lake Malawi (Malawi). We wave farewell to Tanzania on day 16, crossing into neighbouring Malawi. We head straight to shimmering Lake Malawi, which covers around a fifth of the country and is the main source of income for a huge swathe of the country's population. Fishermen paddle their traditional Bwato canoes on the lake, which has a huge number of fish species found nowhere else in the world, making it a popular spot for scuba divers.
Arriving at our accommodation by Chitimba Beach, the rest of today and tomorrow are at leisure. Relax by the beach, play volleyball or browse the local craft markets.
On day 17 there is an optional hike to Manchewe Falls. This 11km hike requires decent fitness, but the rewards are spectacular views of the waterfall and a dip in a natural bath. David Livingstone lived and worked in this area during his time in Malawi.
Days 18-19 Kande Beach, Lake Malawi
Days 18-19 Kande Beach, Lake Malawi
Chitimba Beach, Lake Malawi - Mzuzu - Kande Beach, Lake Malawi. Day 18 sees us driving through rubber plantations to the small town of Mzuzu, where we visit the local market and resupply the truck. Then it's onwards to Kande beach, another part of Lake Malawi around 240km down the shoreline.
The rest of today and day 19 are free to relax or join some of the optional activities on offer. You can go diving, canoeing, or snorkelling in the lake, or opt for a horse ride along the beach. You can also join a guided walk to a nearby village to meet the Malawian locals.
Day 20 Crossing into Zambia
Day 20 Crossing into Zambia
Kande Beach, Lake Malawi - Chipata (Zambia). Travelling via the Malawian capital of Lilongwe, we make the border crossing into Zambia. We arrive at the town of Chipata, formerly known as Fort Jamerson. We should have time to wander around the town, home to a large Indian community and a number of ornate mosques. Then we continue to our accommodation on the outskirts of town.
Day 21 Lively Lusaka
Day 21 Lively Lusaka
Chipata - Lusaka. Today we have a long drive through the picturesque scenery of Zambia. We'll travel along the Great Eastern Road and cross the Luangwa River before reaching the capital, Lusaka. This is southern Africa's fastest-growing city, but we'll enjoy a slice of tranquility at our accommodation on a rural farm.
Days 22-23 Thundering Victoria Falls
Days 22-23 Thundering Victoria Falls
Lusaka - Livingstone. On day 22 we drive to Livingstone, our final destination, and home to Victoria Falls. There is an included visit to see the Zambian side of this famous cascade and the following day is free to relax or enjoy some of the numerous optional activities available. Activities range from a further visit to see the cascades (prepare to get wet!), canoeing and rafting on the Zambezi River, bungee jumping and fishing to a scenic flight over the falls, or an abseiling experience - the choice is yours!
Day 24 Livingstone
Day 24 Livingstone
Today our tour comes to an end after breakfast today. If you'd like to stay a while longer in Livingstone then speak to our team about booking post-tour accommodation.
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Prices & Dates
Accommodation
Enchoro Wildlife Camp is a partly fenced campsite located within the Masai Mara National Reserve, set amongst lush trees. Accommodation is in permanent pre-erected tents complete with twin share beds and ensuite bathroom facilities. Each tent also has a verandah perfect for enjoying a sundowner and keeping your eyes peeled for wildlife. There is a thatched-roof restaurant onsite and additional excursions into the Mara can be booked at the tour desk.
An oasis away from the hustle and bustle of Nairobi, Wildebeest Eco Camp is set in tropical gardens home to hundreds of native birds. It is conveniently located near shops, banks, markets, restaurants and Nairobi National Park. Accommodation is in simply furnished permanent walk-in tents with electricity and shared bathrooms. Bathrooms have solar-powered hot showers and flush toilets. There's an outdoor swimming pool and sun terrace for guests to enjoy and the onsite restaurant serves a variety of African, European, and American dishes. Free Wi-Fi is also available.
Founded in 1993 on the outskirts of Arusha, the Meserani Snake Park was once a barren wasteland, now it's a lush wildlife park, with hundreds of trees planted which are also home to native bird species. Travellers can visit a local Maasai village guided by a Maasai warrior and can explore the Snake Park zoo itself, home to 48 African snake species including the deadly Black spitting cobra and reptiles including crocodiles. The Snake Park hosts a monthly medical clinic for the local community too, serving more than 1,000 patients monthly. Accommodation is in simple chalets with shared facilities, and the Snake Park Bar is famous in the area for its array of memorabilia.
An unfenced campsite boasting stunning views of the Ngorongoro Crater and with wildlife free to roam around the campsite, Simba Camp is the perfect base for enjoying a wildlife safari in the Ngorongoro Crater. There are well-maintained shared bathroom facilities with hot water, and firewood can be purchased onsite. Take a short walk from camp for unrivalled views of the crater, keeping your eyes peeled for wildlife as you go.
A mixture of simple chalets and permanent tents are on offer at this boutique lodge in Bagamoyo, just a short walk from the beach. Some units offer a sea view whilst some overlook the outdoor swimming pool or lush gardens. There are shared bathroom facilities although some rooms do come with ensuite bathrooms. Food is served all day at the camp's restaurant and bar, and there is a free Wi-Fi connection. Guests can also browse the souvenir shop, relax in the spa, or hire bicycles to further explore Bagamoyo.
The Tanzanian bush meets the blue waters of the Indian Ocean at Kipepeo Beach & Village, situated on the south coast of Dar Es Salaam. The accommodation is right on the beach itself and is a popular destination for watersports adventures or simple relaxation. Facilities include a beach bar and restaurant. All 20 chalets are elevated, with ocean-facing balconies and hammocks, perfect for a relaxing afternoon! Each chalet also has an ensuite bathroom with twin or double beds and a fan. Chalets are decorated in traditional Swahili style.
A great base for exploring Stone Town, the All Seasons Hotel is located in the heart of the old part of Zanzibar City and just a few hundred metres from the beach. Rooms are simple but comfortable, with ensuite bathrooms, air-conditioning, TV and a terrace. There is free Wi-Fi throughout the property. Guests can dine at the onsite restaurant, and the hotel is situated within easy distance of an array of other restaurants and attractions, including the Old Fort of Zanzibar and the Persian Baths.
Amaan Bungalows is a laid-back beachfront hotel in Nungwi, on the north western tip of Zanzibar. The comfortable, ensuite, air-conditioned guest rooms are scenically set amid a landscape of coconut palms and sweet-scented flowers. Free Wi-Fi is available and facilities include an outdoor pool, spa and restaurant. Set on Nungwi's pristine white sand beach, the hotel offers a plethora of leisure activities, with water sports facilities, bicycle rental and a tour desk. This tropical paradise is the perfect place to while away a few days before getting back on safari.
Tan-Swiss Lodge offers simple accommodation with ensuite bathrooms and twin share or double beds. Rooms are air-conditioned and offer TV and free Wi-Fi connection, plus a small verandah overlooking the beautiful gardens. Tan-Swiss Lodge is located less than 3km from the boundary with Mikumi National Park and amenities include a gift shop, laundry services, outdoor swimming pool and an onsite restaurant.
This working farm is nestled around 50km from Iringa, in Tanzania's rural Southern Highlands. The farm has been the home of the Ghaui family since the 1930s. Still planted with crops today, it is also home to livestock including cattle and sheep. Onsite facilities include a farm shop selling the farm's own organic produce, as well as a spa, restaurant and bar. The restaurant is housed in a traditional mud building and serves fresh, local ingredients. Basic chalets are wood-built and rustically decorated with shared bathroom facilities. They are surrounded by organic gardens, where birds and butterflies roam serenely.
Chitimba Beach is found on the northern shore of Lake Malawi, surrounded by banana palms and papaya trees on a golden sandy beach. The property features a large thatched restaurant, bar and lounge area, and basic but comfortable chalets with shared facilities. Wi-Fi connection is provided and there are good hiking trails around the lake and the surrounding area. Beach volleyball can also be enjoyed, and there is a communal firepit.
A beachside resort on the western side of Lake Malawi, Kande Beach is a laid-back destination, perfect for unwinding in this part of Central Africa. Beach-side chalets are just metres from the lake, separated by a stretch of golden sand. Chalets are simply furnished and with shared bathroom facilities, plus a beachfront verandah. Watersports equipment can be hired by the hour and the onsite bar serves a selection of refreshing drinks, as well as boasting a pool table and table tennis. Nearby Tonga village is a short walk away for those looking to experience Malawian village life.
Located 6km outside the border town of Chipata, Mama Rula's B&B and campsite is ideally located between Lusaka and South Luangwa National Park. Comfortable ensuite chalets are housed in beautiful gardens and come with TV. The onsite restaurant serves vegetables grown in the gardens and there is an outdoor swimming pool that guests are free to use.
Eureka Camp is situated on a private game farm and guests are treated to the sight of giraffes, zebra, and antelope wandering freely through the grounds. Located just a short drive from the Zambian capital, it is nevertheless a peaceful, rural place to stay. Travellers will stay in simply furnished private chalets with an en suite and twin beds. Facilities at the camp include an outdoor pool, volleyball pitch, BBQ area and bar complete with darts, pool and satellite TV.
Just a few kilometres from one of Africa's finest natural wonders and found within Mosi oa Tunya National Park, The Victoria Falls Waterfront is an excellent base for discovering the Zambian side of Victoria Falls. Basic chalets are located beside the Luangwa River, in the gardens of the Victoria Falls Waterfront. Boasting air-conditioning, mini-bar, TV, and ensuite facilities with private verandah. There is free Wi-Fi throughout the property, an outdoor pool, restaurant, bar and activity centre offering different experiences at the falls.
Tour Reviews
The trip itself was very well organised. The guide and driver were absolutely brilliant. Our truck Kavango wasn’t quite as good as a couple of the other trucks we crossed paths with. The seats not as comfortable and didn’t recline at all. I’m guessing it was an older truck but given the long days we had, reclining seats would be great. The itinerary needs updating. Some of the days it says 4 hours travel and it would be 8 hours with no hold ups. It is hard to rate the accommodation as it varied to widely from the fabulous Tan Swiss Lodge and the Waterfront to the worst accommodation which hands down was Snake Park which really let your brand down, particularly as there are so many other options in that area. Snake Park is an health hazard. Everything in between was acceptable even if basic given the location like Chitimba. In general I would book again and would recommend to like minded people.
The trip itself was very well organised. The guide and driver were absolutely brilliant. Our truck Kavango wasn’t quite as good as a couple of the other Acacia trucks we crossed paths with. The seats not as comfortable and didn’t recline at all. I’m guessing it was an older truck but given the long days we had, reclining seats would be great. The itinerary needs updating. Some of the days it says 4 hours travel and it would be 8 hours with no hold ups. It is hard to rate the accommodation as it varied to widely from the fabulous Tan Swiss Lodge and the Waterfront to the worst accommodation which hands down was Snake Park which really let your brand down, particularly as there are so many other options in that area. Snake Park is an health hazard. Everything in between was acceptable even if basic given the location like Chitimba. In general I would book with again and would recommend to like minded people.
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