1. Home
  2. Africa
  3. South Africa
  4. Grand Africa: Cairo to Cape Town
Days
48
Price from
€20,700EUR
Map of Grand Africa: Cairo to Cape Town including Botswana, Egypt, Kenya, Namibia and South Africa

For the wildlife lover travelling through Africa's top national parks makes for one of life's most rewarding adventures. And on this grand adventure the icing on the cake is witnessing the ancient sites of Egypt. Let our local leaders introduce you to Africa's lions, elephants, leopards and pyramids of Giza!

Start
Cairo, Egypt
Finish
Cape Town, South Africa
Destinations
Botswana, Egypt, Kenya, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Zimbabwe
Style
Peregrine
Theme
Overland, Wildlife
Code
PFGAC
Physical rating
Ages
Min 15
Group size
Min 1, Max 12

Why you'll love this trip

  • This grand adventure takes us from one end of the African continent to the other and offers an in-depth experience that combines ancient history with wildlife and breathtaking scenery.

  • Uncover the mysteries of Egypt and admire pharaonic treasures as we embark on a cruise up the Nile, witnessing the local rural life along the river as we meander along.

  • A four-night river cruise is the ideal way to experience the Nile. Rest and relax on the sundeck and in the pool while local riverside life streams by.

  • Experience not only the warmth and charm of Nubian hospitality, but also some delicious traditional cuisine with a home cooked meal.

  • Pull up in the Serengeti National Park and enjoy a refreshing sundowner and some nibbles before carrying on to you camp.

  • Experience a real safari camp in the African bush at our comfortable mobile tented camp; Kati Kati, a feature stay on this trip located in central Serengeti. While here, enjoy a private dinner under the stars while listening to the sounds of the Serengeti.

  • The 'Big Five' await us as do many other members of the animal kingdom. Zanzibar is our perfect halfway stop with its stunning beaches and evocative old town.

  • Visit the Maasai, known for their vibrant red dress and elaborate jewellery, and enjoy a fascinating talk, full of insights into this remarkable and ancient culture.

  • Southern Africa offers us more stunning wildlife experiences, Mother Nature's landmark places such as Victoria Falls, Okavango Delta, Fish River Canyon and Table Mountain.Head out on an afternoon excursion to the Makgadikgadi Pans, looking out for meerkats and meandering elephants, and enjoy a sundowner in the shadow of an old baobab tree.

  • The magnificent Okavango Delta by houseboat and perhaps the hidden jewel of African wildlife reserves - Etosha National Park

  • Enjoy a wine and cheese tasting experience on a working wine farm in the Olifants River Valley, with your host ‘Sparky’.

  • Rise early and witness the colourful sunrise and a picnic breakfast from the edge of Fish River Canyon, the second largest chasm of its type in the world.

  • Spend 2 nights in Kati Kati tented camp, Serengeti, 2 nights in Vic Falls Safari Lodge,and 2 nights in Canyon Lodge, Fish River Canyon, all feature stays on this trip.

  • Step inside Faldela's Purple House in the Bo-Kaap region of Cape Town for an authentic home-cooked dinner. Taste some of the traditional dishes such as 'Bredie', 'Chilli Bites' and 'Koesisters'.

Is this trip right for you?

  • Purpose-built overland vehicles are used for the duration of the Africa section of this trip. While these vehicles are not air-conditioned, all windows open to allow fresh air flow.

  • Road travel in Africa comes with a considerable amount of dust and it can get hot and windy, especially in Namibia. It wouldn't be an adventure without the elements, of course!

  • There are a number of long travel days on this itinerary, which can be exacerbated by bumpy untarred African roads. Refer to the approximate travel times listed in brackets in the itinerary.

  • Overlanding is the perfect journey for those travellers with an open mind and the spirit for adventure. However it may be quite different to any style of travel you have experienced before. Ask your agent for a copy of our Peregrine overlanding flyer for more information on the Africa portion of this itinerary or head to http://www.peregrineadventures.com/en-au/africa-overland

  • You don't need to be a professional athlete to go on an overland safari, but you will need a good level of physical resilience and movement, especially for entering and exiting the vehicles. There's also a half-day canoe trip along the Orange River.

  • There is a lot of walking in Petra and Wadi Rum without shade so please bring comfortable shoes and a hat to make the most of your time at the sites.

  • On day 15 we stay in Migori to break up the journey between the Masai Mara National Reserve and Serengeti National Park.

  • The accommodation here is quite basic due to very few options in the area.

  • This itinerary includes two nights on a houseboat in the Okavango Delta. Cabins are very small and basic with shared bathroom facilities. However, many people list this unique experience as a highlight and It's unlikely that you'll spend much time in your room.

  • Namibia summer ( Nov-Mar ) can be very hot and humid with maximum temperatures around 30-35°C and peaks of over 40°C in the desert.

  • Botswana temperatures rise in the hot dry period of September and October before the rains hit and temperatures can get as high as 34-38°C.

  • Accommodation aboard the Nile riverboat is full board – breakfast, lunch and dinner are included. Drinks are offered from the bar area for an additional cost. An evening program is also available.

  • Accommodation aboard the overnight train is in two-berth cabins which convert to bunk beds. All bedding is provided on board and western-style toilets are located in each carriage. Keep in mind general train cleanliness may not be to the same standards you are accustomed to.

  • As the early bird catches the worm, the early camper sights the animals. 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.

grand-africa-cairo-to-cape-_0.jpg
Cruise_past_Komomobo_and_Edfu_temples.jpg
Luxor.jpg
Easygoing_Aswan.jpg
Lake_Nakuru.jpg
Peregrine tour group in front of touring truck
Hippos_Lake_Navaisha.jpg
Cheetahs_tanzania.jpg
Ngorongoro_Crater.jpg
Chobe.jpg
kenya_lion_e.patrickcinternal.jpg
Enjoy a night in the wilderness in a Kati Kati tented camp in Tanzania
Spectacular Victoria Falls on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe in Africa
Have a swim in the pool at the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge in South Africa
Watch elephants at dusk from your balcony at the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge in South Africa

Itinerary
Expand All Collapse All

This itinerary is valid for departures from 01 Jan 2019 to 31 Dec 2019.
 View the 2018 itinerary

Arrive at Cairo International Airport and be transferred to your hotel. This is simply an arrival day, so you may arrive in Cairo at any time. Note that hotel rooms are generally only available after midday. The remainder of the day is free to explore the city, but an important welcome meeting will be held at 6pm this evening. Please check the hotel reception for details. Cairo is one of the great cities of antiquity and its history can perhaps be symbolised by two imposing landmarks - the Pyramids of Giza and the Mosque of Mohammed Ali. In free time perhaps get out and explore the busy streets of this city of contrasts, where you can see donkey carts and expensive cars, medieval slums and modern shopping malls.

You will have a brief meeting this evening with your leader. A full welcome meeting with the rest of your fellow travellers will be held on Day 2.

Please note that the Novotel is a dry hotel. However there are a number of great options to grab a drink and a meal in the surrounding Zamalek area.
Accommodation
  • Novotel El Borg or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
An airport arrival transfer is included. This transfer is only valid if arriving on day 1 or if you have booked pre-trip accommodation through Peregrine. Please provide your flight details at the time of booking, or at a minimum 15 days prior to travel (note - we may not be able confirm request made within 15 days of travel). Once you have provided your details a transfer representative will be booked to meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel.

Immerse yourself in ancient history with a trip out to Memphis, the ancient capital of Lower Egypt and the Old Kingdom of Egypt. Then head to ancient site of Saqqara, the oldest complete stone complex known in history. Saqqara also served as the burial ground for Kings and High officials that lived in the ancient Egyptian Capital, Memphis. Head out to the legendary pyramids of Saqqara, including the famous Step Pyramid. Other small pyramids in the area are worth visiting, especially King Unas Pyramids . The walls of his Pyramids is covered with texts or what can be called Magic spells to assist with the Pharaoh’s journey in the afterlife. This concept continued to evolve to latter what is so called Book of the Dead. Many of Book of the Dead texts can been seen in Valley of the King tombs in Luxor.

An important welcome meeting will be held at 6pm this evening where you will meet the rest of your fellow travellers. Please check the hotel reception for details.

After the meeting perhaps head out for a meal at one of the trendy restaurants down in the Zamalek district whre you can enjoy a drink with views of the Nile.
Accommodation
  • Novotel El Borg or similar (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Urban Adventures - Downtown Cairo Tour - USD45
  • Urban Adventures -Half Day Pyramids Adventure - USD67
  • Urban Adventures - Islamic Cairo in Depth Tour - USD64
  • Urban Adventures - Alexandria City Discovery - USD133
  • Cairo - Sound & Light Show at the Pyramids (entrance fee only) - EGP200
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

This morning after breakfast drive out to Giza, home to perhaps the greatest iconic structures ever created by man - the Pyramids and the Sphinx. Instantly familiar yet retaining a mystique and power, getting up close to these incredible pharaonic tombs is captivating. For an additional charge you may be able to go inside the Great Pyramid of Khufu (or Cheops), although occasionally it may be closed to visitors.
The Egyptian Museum is simply one of the world's great museums, home to a stupendous collection of antiquities and the perfect introduction to your tour, exhibiting many of the region's treasures. You will head there after lunch and your expert guide will take you through Egypt's rich and fascinating dynastic history. You will then have some free time to explore on your own; you may wish to visit the Royal Mummy Room (optional and at extra cost).

Afterwards you will return to your hotel, where there is plenty of time to freshen up before you are transferred to the railway station for the overnight sleeper train to Luxor.

Accommodation aboard the overnight train is in two-berth cabins which convert to bunk beds. All bedding is provided on board and western-style toilets are located in each carriage. Your bags will be stored in your cabin, where airline-style dinner and breakfast will be served. However it may be worth bringing some additional snacks, especially if you are vegetarian or have dietary requirements. Your tour leader can help you to arrange this. Despite being a tourist class train facilities are basic. Please also keep in mind general train cleanliness may not be to the same standards you are accustomed to.it may be worth bringing some additional snacks, especially if you are vegetarian or have dietary requirements. Your tour leader can help you to arrange this. Despite being a tourist class train facilities are basic. Please also keep in mind general train cleanliness may not be to the same standards you are accustomed to.
Accommodation
  • Sleeper Train (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Cairo - The Egyptian Museum
  • Cairo - The Egyptian Museum headset
  • Cairo - Pyramids and Sphinx
Optional Activities
  • Cairo - The 2nd Pyramid of Khafre - EGP60
  • Cairo - The Great Pyramid of Cheops - EGP300
  • Cairo - The Egyptian Museum Mummy Room - EGP150
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

After an early breakfast on board, the train rolls into Luxor. It's a vibrant place with an excellent bazaar, situated close to some of ancient Egypt's most important and extraordinary sights. Travel to Karnak, one of the world's most celebrated temple complexes, built over a period of some 200 years, and some of it dating back to 2,055 BC. Your guided tour of the temple reveals its finest sections.
Later you will be transferred to your Nile cruise boat, which will be your home for the next four nights. You can relax by the pool on the boat or explore the town. For the rest of the afternoon and evening you will be free to relax, shop in the bazaar (open until quite late) or perhaps experience the atmosphere of a local tea house.

Notes: Audits were carried out on balloon operators within Egypt to confirm the safety of their operations, unfortunately we were not able to ascertain the safety standards of these balloon operators therefore, we are not able to recommend or assist in the booking of any balloon excursions.
Accommodation
  • Riverboat (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Luxor - Karnak Temple
Optional Activities
  • Luxor - Sound and Light Show at Karnak (entrance only) - EGP250
  • Luxor - Luxor Museum (entrance only) - EGP120
  • Luxor - Luxor Temple - EGP100
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Rise early this morning and head into the Valley of the Kings. Buried under the arid hills here are over 60 tombs of pharaohs, many richly decorated with reliefs and paintings. Explore this sprawling and spectacular place where discoveries are still being made. Tutankhamun's final resting place is also located here, and you'll have free time to visit it. Your guide will explain the funerary rites of the ancient Egyptians and significance of the many paintings and hieroglyphics. You will visit three royal tombs and then continue to the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, set in a spectacular natural amphitheatre. Your final stop is the Colossi of Memnon – giant statues that were once part of an impressive colonnade. Enjoy lunch upon your return to the boat. There is time to relax on deck or in your cabin before you set sail for Edfu. Generally the journey from Luxor to Edfu is from 1 pm to 11 pm. Departure time may vary, depending on river traffic – please refer to the note regarding cruise schedules in the 'Other Information' section. You will pass through Esna Lock, which can sometimes be a slow process depending on the number of vessels waiting to get through, and continue your journey upstream.
Accommodation
  • Riverboat (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Luxor - Hatshepsut Temple
  • Luxor - Valley of the Kings (3 tombs)
  • Luxor - Tut Ank Amon Tomb entrance
Optional Activities
  • Luxor - Valley of the Queens - EGP80
  • Luxor - Medinat Habu Temple - EGP60
  • Luxor - Deir el Madina - EGP80
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Morning finds you moored near Edfu, a beautifully preserved temple dedicated to Horus. Please see the special information below regarding visiting the temple.

Continue travelling upriver, relaxing on the sundeck and taking in the surrounding sights – desert hills forming a backdrop to lush riverbanks, fishermen casting their nets and farmers working their land.

This afternoon we will arrive at Kom Ombo temple (about 45km north of Aswan city) which sits picturesquely ruined on the river's edge and provides an interesting insight into the Greco-Roman period. 
The temple was built approx. 181BC and is dedicated to 2 Gods; Horus the protection god and Sobek fertility god linked to the Nile Water . The temple consists of 2 identical northern sections the North and South each dedicated to either god.
In the Sobek section recent discoveries have been made of mummified Crocodiles, which are now displayed in the Crocodile museum attached to the temple - don't miss it!

Board your boat again at around 6pm and continue to Aswan, arriving at around 9.30 pm.

Accommodation
  • Riverboat (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Special Information

The only mode of transport available to visit the Edfu temple is by locally managed horse and carriages. As a responsible travel focused business, animal welfare is extremely important to us and we want to ensure that we are not promoting any activities where the working animals are not properly cared for. Unfortunately, some operators of the Horse and Carriages have been found to be in breach of our animal welfare guidelines and it is, for this reason, we will no longer including the visit the Edfu Temple.

In addition to the animal welfare concerns, we have had a substantial amount of feedback suggesting that the experience itself is quite uncomfortable due to the pushy nature of the vendors and local suppliers outside the site. While we recommend that you do not use the horse and carriage to visit the Temple, the decision is ultimately up to you. Edfu is an included port stop on the Nile River cruise schedule.

Explore Aswan today, Egypt's southernmost city. Its easygoing charm is due in no small part to its large Nubian population. Depending on your arrival time, you may visit the beautiful Temple of Isis (the Goddess of health, marriage and wisdom) that was rescued from the rising waters of the Nile and relocated on Philae Island (alternatively you will visit it tomorrow). It's a marvel of decorative pylons featuring some of Egypt's finest carvings – definitely one of the real gems of Upper Egypt. Access to the temple is by small motorboats. The rest of your day will be free to wander, and Aswan is a great place for it. The Nubian Bazaar is a must, while the excellent Nubian Museum is recommended by many. The waterfront promenade, or Aswan's 'corniche', runs alongside one of Nile's most appealing stretches and is the perfect place to stop for a mint tea. Watch the waterfront come alive at dusk, as families are out strolling, socialising and relaxing along the corniche.
Accommodation
  • Riverboat (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Kom Ombo - Kom Ombo Temple
  • Aswan - Philae Temple
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

We depart early this morning to visit the iconic Abu Simbel by plane. With the four gargantuan statues of Ramses guarding the Great Temple, this is one of Egypt's most memorable sights. The rest of the day is free for you to make your own discoveries. A popular afternoon option in Aswan is a sailboat ride around the islands in a traditional felucca, stopping off at the botanical gardens on Kitchener's Island. Alternatively travel to the Monastery of St Simeon, an abandoned 7th-century fortress monastery located in the desert on the Nile's west bank. Your tour leader will be on hand to help you arrange any excursions. Alternatively, you may prefer to simply relax by the hotel pool or do some shopping in the local bazaar. In the evening you will visit a Nubian village and enjoy the warm hospitality (and cuisine) of these locals. You will also be treated to some Nubian dancing, and may even have the chance to try some moves yourself. 

Accommodation
  • Hotel Basma or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Abu Simbel - Abu Simbel temples
  • Abu Simbel - Flights to and from Abu Simbel
Optional Activities
  • Aswan - Unfinished Obelisk (entrance only) - EGP80
  • Aswan - Nubian Museum (entrance fee only) - EGP100
  • Aswan - Sound & Light Show at Philae Temple - EGP200
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

After breakfast you will be transferred to Aswan airport for the short flight back to Cairo (approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes) where you will be met and taken to your hotel. Today you will dive into another layer of Egyptian history: medieval Cairo. Head to Khan al-Khalili Bazaar, Cairo's oldest mosque and the Gayer-Anderson Museum. The 'Khan', sprawling around an old area known as Al-Azhar, is a quintessentially Cairo experience – a warren of alleys with stalls serving up a succession of intoxicating scenes. It retains a distinctly medieval feel. You will explore the gold market, 'perfume street' and the spice market, where heady aromas hang in the air like a thick blanket of Damascene cloth (which can be purchased next door in the cloth market). The gorgeous 9th-century Ibn Tulun Mosque is one of the oldest and largest in Egypt, possibly its most beautiful too. Its perfectly proportioned courtyard and distinctive minaret make it a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Nearby stands the Gayer-Anderson Museum, housed in two fine old villas and vaunting a fascinating collection of Arabic artefacts, furniture and memorabilia. Also dont miss the chance to drink arabic coffee or mint tea from Cairo's oldest cafe, it has a long history and fantastic atmosphere.
This evening you will get to share an authentic Egyptian meal with a local family. Visit a family home, chat with the local family members about life in the Middle East, and learn some of your favourite traditional Egyptian dishes while enjoying a delicious dinner
Accommodation
  • Novotel El Borg or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Cairo - Gayer Anderson
  • Cairo - Home Cooked Meal
  • Cairo - Khan al-Khalili Bazaar
  • Cairo - Ibn Tulun Mosque
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Special Information
For the flight from Aswan to Cairo, the baggage allowance is up to 23 kilos for checked in luggage and 7 kilos for carry on bags subject to the airlines discretion.

When you arrive in Nairobi you will be met and transferred to your hotel. There will be a trip briefing at the hotel at 6 pm this evening. The rest of the day will be at your leisure – Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, was established at the turn of the 20th century by Europeans as a stores depot during the construction of the East African Railway. Without plan or design, it established itself as the capital of the British protectorate, and today has a population of around three million. Perhaps visit the Karen Blixen Museum, the Langata Giraffe Centre, or have a meal at the famous Carnivore Restaurant, where meat lovers can taste a variety of barbecued game meat.
Accommodation
  • Panafric Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
Optional Activities
  • Nairobi - National Museum - USD10
  • Nairobi - Karen Blixen museum - USD14
  • Nairobi - Bomas of Kenya - USD12
  • Nairobi - Langata Giraffe Sanctuary - KES1200
  • Nairobi - Carnivore Restaurant - KES3600
  • Nairobi - National Park safari walk - USD30
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Depart Nairobi for Elsamere after breakfast and head north, driving along the escarpment of the Great Rift Valley (approximately 4 hours of driving in total).
'Elsamere' is the former home of the writer Joy Adamson, whose 1960 book 'Born Free' helped bring wildlife conservation into the mainstream. The house is a veritable museum that dedicated to the works of Joy and George Adamson, with many photos of Elsa, the lioness that started it all. You'll then embark on a boat trip on Lake Naivasha, the highest of all lakes in the Great Rift Valley and home to many a hippopotamus. Later, enjoy lunch with the lake as a serene backdrop. After lunch, continue to your Lake Nakuru lodge, arriving in the early evening.
Accommodation
  • Lake Nakuru Lodge or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Lake Naivasha - Boat trip
  • Lake Elementaita - Elsamere Conservation Centre
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

This morning you will visit Lake Nakuru National Park by 4WD. Mornings can be cold so it's important to bring warm clothes. You might see why this great soda lake has been described as the world's greatest ornithological spectacle; it amazingly turns into a sea of pink on occasion. Flooding in recent years has unfortunately caused a decline in birdlife. The park boasts substantial numbers of other species, including waterbuck, reedbuck and gazelle. Leopards are also to be found here, and the chances of sighting one are significant. Keep your eyes peeled, too, for one of Africa's most endangered creatures, the elusive black rhinoceros (white rhinos are much easier to spot). 
Accommodation
  • Lake Nakuru Lodge or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Lake Nakuru - Afternoon Game Drive (4x4)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Today you will head southwest to the Masai Mara (approximately 6–7 hours), arguably one of the finest game reserves in Africa. Before you arrive, you'll first cross the Great Rift Valley, Africa's immense and spectacular great divide. Pass by the remote region of Loita Hills, home of the traditional Maasai people. Here you will make a stop to visit the Maasai, known for their vibrant red dress and elaborate jewellery, and gain an insight into the culture and ancient ways of this proud East African Community. Meet your Maasai hosts and enjoy a fascinating talk, full of insights into this remarkable and ancient culture, from a local elder. Enjoy being shown around a traditional Maasai home and their cattle enclosures. Afterwards, continue on your journey to ‘The Mara’, swapping into 4x4 jeeps. After checking into the park, take a short game drive on the way to camp. Set in what is considered Kenya's prime wildlife area, Mara Leisure Camp is located along the Talek River, on the northern boundary of the Masai Mara Game Reserve. Facilities at the camp include a swimming pool, gift shop, bar and restaurant.
Accommodation
  • Mara Leisure Tented Camp or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Loita Hills - Cultural talk and village visit
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Explore more of the park by 4x4 Jeeps today with further game drives in the morning and afternoon. Witness the wonderful procession of wildlife that inhabits the area. Wildebeest, zebra and gazelle are plentiful, and you might even spot predators keeping a casual eye on their movements. Elephants, giraffes and elands are also commonly sighted, along with plenty of bird life. The area is known for its rolling green plains and riverine woodlands, and amongst the many species of game, a black-maned lion, leopard or cheetah might appear, with some luck. 
As dusk falls, a variety of animals might be visible in the vicinity of your camp also.
Accommodation
  • Mara Leisure Tented Camp or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Masai Mara - 4x4 Game Drive
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Today is a free day. If you wish to continue your exploration of arguably one of the finest game reserves on the continent there are a number of optional activities you can choose from including half-day or full-day game drives, or walking safaris.
A morning game drive involves waking at dawn for a light breakfast followed by an early morning game drive, setting off at sunrise and returning to the camp three to four hours later.
An afternoon game drive departs around 4pm and returns after sunset. On returning to the camp, freshen up before joining other guests around the campfire for a pre-dinner drink.
An optional balloon ride over the Masai Mara at sunrise is an unforgettable experience. If you have pre-booked this activity you will be picked up from camp before dawn and driven to the launch site for a safety briefing with your pilot. You then glide through the dawn, sometimes at tree height, making the most of the amazing photo opportunities. Sometimes you'll ascend to get an overview of the enormity of the Masai Mara plains and the early-morning movements of the teeming herds. Upon landing you'll be treated to a bush breakfast before rejoining your group.
Accommodation
  • Mara Leisure Tented Camp or similar (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Masai Mara National Reserve - Balloon ride (from price) - USD500
  • Masai Mara - Half Day Game Drive - KES8000
  • Masai Mara - Full Day Game Drive - KES16000
  • Masai Mara National Reserve - Guided Walking Safari - USD30
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Special Information
The balloon ride is offered as a pre-booked service which will guarantee you a place. If you would rather wait and try to get a better price by booking this locally on the ground, you are welcome to, but keep in mind that this is a popular activity and places are limited.

Say goodbye to the Mara and head to Migori (approximately 6.5 hours). On the way you will stop for lunch (at your own expense) and visit a local soapstone factory in Kisii. This town is home to the best soapstone carvers on the continent. Their products are quite popular around the world. It's a favourite stopover for travellers seeking a taste of the exquisite Kisii carvings.
Accommodation
  • Grabo County Dream Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Kisii - Soapstone factory visit and demonstration
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Special Information
Accommodation tonight is quite basic, due to very few options in the area and the need to break up the journey.

Cross into Tanzania before heading to the Serengeti National Park (approximately 8 hours, not including time spent at the border). These 'Endless Plains' span some 14,700 square kilometres, but their main claim to fame is 3 million or so animals. The game most likely to be seen in the Serengeti are the wildebeest, zebra, gazelle, lion, cheetah, warthog, hyena, hippo and ostrich. You'll take a game drive en route to your camp and watch the landscape change within the park from the vast treeless central plains to thick scrub and forest in the north. Linking these areas is the savannah, dotted with acacia trees and magnificent rock outcrops.
Pull up in the park and enjoy a refreshing sundowner and some nibbles before carrying on to you camp.
The next two nights are spent at Kati Kati mobile tented camp, our feature stay on this trip. Meru-style tents are a great place to relax at the end of the day and have large beds, table, clothes rack, sink, 'bucket' showers and a toilet. The eco-friendly camp has a comfortable lounge area, and a cosy mess tent located in the centre of the camp where meals are served. The campfire is ready every evening for appetizers before dinner. This is a unique opportunity to enjoy a real safari camp experience with modern comforts.
Accommodation
  • Feature Stay at Ang'ata Serengeti Tented Camp or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Serengeti - Game Drive (Overland Vehicle)
  • Serengeti - Sundowner in the Park
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Enjoy a full day of game drives in the truck in the magnificent Serengeti. Perhaps the ultimate way to go game viewing is on a hot air balloon safari over the great plains of the Serengeti National Park. Hot-air ballooning in East Africa can be an unforgettable experience, an exceptional way to see this part of the world. We strongly recommend booking this extra activity prior to departure if you're interested.
Tonight we have a private dinner under the stars within our permanent tented camp while listening to the sounds of the Serengeti.
Accommodation
  • Feature Stay at Ang'ata Serengeti Tented Camp or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Serengeti - Game Drive (Overland Vehicle)
  • Serengeti - Private Dinner Kati Kati Camp
Optional Activities
  • Serengeti National Park - Balloon Ride (from price) - USD599
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Special Information
The balloon ride is offered as a pre-booked service which will guarantee you a place. If you would rather wait and try to get a better price by booking this locally on the ground, you are welcome to, but keep in mind that this is a popular activity and places are limited.

After an early morning game drive, it's time to leave the park and travel to the Ngorongoro Crater (approximately 5 hours). It's one of Africa's most beautiful nature reserves and the world's largest intact caldera. Upon arrival you will check into your accommodation, which is located just outside of the crater. This small and exclusive lodge faces the Oldeani Volcano, and is located approximately 5 kilometres from the Ngorongoro Lolduare gate.
Accommodation
  • Farm of Dreams Lodge or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Serengeti - Game Drive (Overland Vehicle)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

In the morning, climb aboard the 4WD for your descent to the crater floor. Hopefully you'll see some or all of the 'big five' creatures that rule here. Animals within the Ngorongoro Crater are less shy of people and safari vehicles, so it's easier to see them up close. Views from the rim of the crater are sensational. On the crater floor, grassland blends into swamps, lakes, rivers, woodlands and hills. The Masai are permitted to water their cattle at the permanent lake and can be seen leading their animals in and out of the crater. The most commonly seen animals are the lion, wildebeest, zebra, eland, bushbuck, cheetah, jackal, buffalo, Grant's gazelle, Thompson's gazelle and black rhinoceros. The afternoon is yours to spend as you please, perhaps with optional walking activities or a coffee tour.
Accommodation
  • Farm of Dreams Lodge or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Ngorongoro Crater - 4x4 Game Drive
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

After breakfast head to Arusha (approximately 4 hours) where some of the group may be leaving the trip, along with your tour leader from the East Africa sector. Those continuing to Zanzibar are transferred to Arusha Airport for a flight. You will be unescorted for the Zanzibar sector, but our local representatives will be on hand to look after you. Just the name Zanzibar conjures up images of a remote island paradise where the water is transparent and the air is filled with the heady scent of spices. On arrival you will be transferred to the east coast of the island and your wonderful resort situated along beautiful white sands. Here you can run your hands through the perfectly fine white sands and enter the warming embrace of the Indian Ocean – deep blue in colour, filled with marine life, and perfect for swimming and snorkelling. This is the perfect place to climb into a hammock with drink and a book, watch a gorgeous sun set and then relax underneath a blanket of glowing stars.
Accommodation
  • Breezes Beach Club or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

During your time on the coast you can enjoy swimming or simply relax on the beach. Or there are a number of optional activities to take advantage of, from full or half-day deep sea fishing expeditions, sailing trips on a dhow ship, snorkelling, or a visit to Prison Island (named for its former use but now home to giant land tortoises). There is a fitness centre at the accommodation for those who want to exercise to work off all the excellent meals that are served in the restaurant. There’s also a swimming pool, water sports, restaurants, bars and shopping bazaar. It's a perfect place for a midpoint unwind during your busy African journey.
Accommodation
  • Breezes Beach Club or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

Your third day in Zanzibar will be spent in atmospheric and historic Stone Town (approximately 1 hour), and the remainder of the day will be at your leisure. Explore Stone Town’s maze of narrow streets with whitewashed coral stone buildings, magnificently carved, brass-studded teak doors, quaint shops and bazaars that all reflect a unique blend of architectural traditions. The market and bazaars are fascinating and are ideal spots for topping up your spice collection at home or shopping for souvenirs. Zanzibar was also one of the headquarters for slave trading and the starting point for many of the famous explorers such as Speke, Livingstone, Burton and Grant. From here they ventured into the vast interior of east Africa. Perhaps learn more about the island’s history at the Old Fort, the Slave Markets, or at the House of Wonders (so-called because it was the first building on the island to have electricity and running water), which houses the Zanzibar National Museum of History and Culture. Alternatively you might like to join a highly recommended tour of the spice plantations, which can be easily arranged through your local operator, Zanzibar Unique. On this tour you'll have the opportunity to see and taste a variety of spices (cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, mace, etc.), as well as tropical fruits. Your guide may also introduce you to some rare plant species, including the henna bush and lipstick tree. Perhaps end your time in Zanzibar enjoying a dawa cocktail as you watch dhows sail along the Zanzibar coastline.
Accommodation
  • Tembo House Hotel or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Today you will fly south to Johannesburg - the largest city in South Africa. You will be unescorted during this portion of the tour. You can expect to arrive at the Peermont Metcourt Hotel Johannesburg by mid-afternoon. On arrival please make your way to the shuttle terminus located in the Parkade building, between the domestic & international terminals. If you are unsure on where to go please ask for directions at the Information Desk located within the arrivals area. At the shuttle terminus please wait for the black and gold Emperors Palace bus at the terminus. The shuttle runs every 20 minutes. Tell the driver you are staying at Peermont Metcourt. Peermont Metcourt is one of many hotels located within the Emperors Palace Hotel Casino Convention Resort, which is conveniently situated alongside OR Tambo International Airport. There are a number of facilities within the resort such as restaurants, entertainment and retail shops so you won’t need to venture out of the resort to have dinner - tomorrow you'll be flying direct to Victoria Falls.
Accommodation
  • Peermont Metcourt or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
The Courtesy Shuttle runs between the hours of 6am and midnight daily, for any transport requirements after this time you will need to arrange a private transfer.

This morning you will take the courtesy airport shuttle from your hotel to Johannesburg International Airport, for your flight to Victoria Falls. The shuttle service departs from the hotel at 20 minute intervals. You will be met by a Peregrine representative and transferred to your lodge (approximately 45 minutes). The afternoon will be free to spend at your leisure. Take a stroll around town and book with local tour operators any optional activities that you’d like to do while you’re here. Victoria Falls is known as a centre of adventures and in free time tomorrow you could white water raft on the river below the falls on some of the best rapids in the world or take a leisurely cruise at sunset. For something a little more hair-raising there are rope-based activities around the gorge, or a jaw-dropping helicopter flight over the falls and the Zambezi Gorges. This evening at 6pm there will be a welcome meeting where you will meet your new leader and the rest of the group.
Accommodation
  • Feature Stay at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Victoria Falls - The Boma Dinner & Experience
  • Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer (shared)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Special Information
You may notice businesses offering an optional 'Walk with the Lions' experience. We ask all our travellers to avoid this activity as it is contrary to our Responsible Travel policy. While wildlife viewing is a big part of many of our itineraries, we strive to only view animals in their natural habitats and to do so with the greatest level of respect. The lion walking industry directly contributes to the captive breeding and canned hunting of lions.

This morning you will visit the magnificent Victoria Falls, named by Dr David Livingstone in honour of his English queen. One of the world's true natural wonders, Victoria Falls form the largest sheet of falling water in the world, when in full flow. Once inside the park, your guide will take you through the falls area, stopping at different vantage points along the way to explain the history of the falls and their surrounds. After your tour, you will return to your lodge, where the rest of the day will be at leisure.
Accommodation
  • Feature Stay at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Victoria Falls - Entrance & Visit
Optional Activities
  • Victoria Falls - Gorge swing - USD110
  • Victoria Falls - Helicopter flight (12 mins) - USD175
  • Victoria Falls - Helicopter flight (25 mins) - USD334
  • Victoria Falls - Sunset cruise on the Zambezi river - USD50
  • Victoria Falls - Village & township tour - USD50
  • Victoria Falls - Whitewater rafting (half day) - USD140
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Your leader will take you to a local activity centre where a range of activities will be on offer. We have not risk assessed all activities and only those listed in our trip notes are recommended. It is against company policy for leaders to facilitate the booking of any activities that have not been risk assessed or do not adhere to our company’s Responsible Travel policy and ethos. This includes organising transport to and from these activities in our vehicles.

Follow the Zambezi River to Botswana and make your way to Chobe National Park (100km approximately 2–3 hours, not including border formalities). You will arrive at your lodge at around midday. There you can relax by the pool or take an optional afternoon game drive in Chobe National Park. This can be arranged locally with your leader. You will spend the next two nights in a lodge located just outside Chobe National Park.
Accommodation
  • Chobe Safari Lodge or similar (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Chobe National Park - Game Drive - BWP295
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

This morning you will enjoy a game drive in Chobe National Park. You might see elephants drinking at the water's edge, large herds of cape buffaloes and many impala within the park. Then head back to the lodge for breakfast.
In the afternoon, embark on a cruise along the picturesque Chobe River, an ideal location for spotting bird life such as saddle-billed storks, malachite kingfishers, fish eagles and beautiful bee-eaters as well as hippos, crocodiles and large families of elephants. You will be joined by other travellers on the boat cruise which has a toilet and small bar to purchase drinks. Enjoy a G&T as the sun goes down on the river.
Accommodation
  • Chobe Safari Lodge or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Chobe National Park - 4x4 Game Drive
  • Chobe National Park - River Safari Cruise
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Special Information
Extra layers of clothing are essential here for the early morning Game drive in an open vehicle.

Heading south, you will continue your journey (410km approximately 6 hours) to the Makgadikgadi Pans for an afternoon excursion. Witness the immensity of this sprawling salt flat, one of the largest in the world. Later you will head to Gweta Lodge, located near the edge of the pans. In the afternoon, leave the lodge in an open game vehicle to and travel out to the Nxaisini pan. Here you’ll sit out in the wild enjoy sundowners and snacks while observing the amazing scenery. With the aid of trackers you’ll spend some time in the company of the local meerkat colony, and look out for elephants that meander their way down to the watering hole to quench their thirst. Soak in this incredible place while the sun sets behind the old beautiful baobab. Back at the lodge, relax in the lounge area while you take in your surroundings and reflect on the day's adventure.
Accommodation
  • Gweta Lodge or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Makgadikgadi Pans - Meerkat Pan Experience
  • Makgadikgadi Pans - Sunset & Sundowner
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Special Information
Accommodation for this evening is in simple but comfortable rondavels equipped with ceiling fans, tea and coffee facilities, mosquito nets. These rooms have an outdoor enclosed shower & toilet.

After breakfast this morning, it's time to head to Maun, the gateway of the Okavango Delta (approximately 4 hours). For those interested, there is the opportunity to fly over the delta in a small plane for a bird's-eye view. This is a great way to appreciate the vast scale of this waterscape. Your leader can give you more information on this activity and how to reserve a place. Otherwise, the afternoon yours to spend as you please.
Accommodation
  • Thamalakane River Lodge or similar (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Okavango Delta - Plane Scenic Flight - From USD75 - USD390
  • Okavango Delta - Helicopter Scenic Flight - From USD150 - USD450
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Special Information
The scenic flight prices are dependent on the number of passengers in the plane/helicopter.

Venture to the Okavango Delta (350kms, approximately 6 hours) and board your speedboat. This will take you to your home for the next two nights, a houseboat in the Okavango Delta Panhandle. You will need to pack a small bag or backpack for this trip, as there won't be room for everyone's full luggage. The houseboat has twin-share cabins with bedding, towels and mosquito nets provided (however, no single supplement is available on these nights). There is also a dining area on the deck, tea- and coffee-making facilities and a small collection of books and board games. As evening falls, head to the deck, where your captain will serve dinner. Grab a sundowner, pull up a chair and witness the often breath-taking sunset. This is a unique and memorable way to experience the Delta – not really for what you do, but more for the absence of anything to do. The sounds of hippos breaching and grunting, cicadas trilling and a million mosquitoes seduce you blissfully into the night.
Accommodation
  • Okavango Houseboat (with shared facilities) (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Okavango Delta - Houseboat River Cruise
  • Okavango Delta - Speedboat Cruise
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Special Information
Cabins are very small and basic, but it is of course unlikely that you will be spending much time in them.

This morning after breakfast you will take a speedboat and 4WD to a nearby poling station. From here you will experience the myriad waterways in a traditional dugout canoe (mokoro) with a local guide. Your guide will also take you on a short nature walk around one of the many Islands in the Delta. After a picnic lunch, return to the houseboat for some relaxation time. You might like to read a book or do some fishing. In the evening, enjoy a drink, pull up a chair and witness the often breathtaking sunset before your captain serves up dinner once again on the deck.
Accommodation
  • Okavango Houseboat (with shared facilities) (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Okavango Delta - Mokoro tours & game walks
  • Okavango Delta - Speedboat Cruise
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Travel on to Ghanzi, the 'Capital of the Kalahari' ( 400km approximately 7 hours). Your accommodation tonight is at a community project in Ghanzi and is a much more basic than what you will encounter throughout your journey. However, the concept and experience of the lodge is well worth it. The lodges we use here support the local San community through employment. The San People are renowned as the most skillful trackers on Earth and have an extraordinary knowledge of the Kalahari for both plants and animal tracking. If time permits you may choose to do the optional walk. Here you will be shown the wide variety of both edible and medicinal plants, while also tracking a variety of animals and learning about their habits. Of course, you will also spend quality time with your guides to understand their very different world view. Later a traditional San meal will be served in the communal lounge and dining area. You will then experience the ancient dance rituals of the San around the campfire. This is a real cultural experience and a great way to get to know the locals. On special occasions this could be a healing or trance dance, which can continue all night, and is an intense spiritual experience for both participants and visitors alike.

Accommodation
  • Dqae Qare San Lodge or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Central Kalahari - San Cultural Experience
  • Okavango Delta - Speedboat Cruise
Optional Activities
  • Central Kalahari - Bush Walk - BWP80
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Special Information
In the shorter days of winter unfortunately there may not be enough time to do the optional walk.

Cross the border into Namibia and head to Windhoek (approximately 6 hours). On arrival, take a stroll around the town and visit some of its museums or perhaps take a township tour. Take in the German architecture evident in a number of buildings. The finest are the Tintenpalast (Ink Palace), the Christuskirche (church), the gymnasium and the Genossenschaftshaus. As this is a combination trip, some of your fellow travellers may be leaving you this evening. There will be another group meeting at 6 pm and it will be a great opportunity to meet any new travellers who will accompany you through Namibia.
Accommodation
  • Hotel Thule or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Travel to our lodge located just outside Etosha National Park ( 400km approximately 7–8 hours including stops). On arrival the afternoon will be free to relax at the Lodge. Maybe cool off in the pool, read a book, or enjoy a sundowner by the bar. Be sure to charge your camera's tonight. Tomorrow we will have a full day in the Park. This is one of the world's premier game-viewing destinations; spotting animals in the park is relatively easy due to the man-made 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 allow for sightings. Namibia has protected its game reserves against poaching, so there are large herds of elephants, antelope and other herbivores.
Accommodation
  • Toshari Lodge or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Rise early and enjoy a full day of game viewing in the truck. Keep a close eye on the landscape for black rhino, Hartmann's mountain zebra, black-faced impala, roan antelope and the tiny Damara dik-dik. The park is also home to some 340 bird species. Return to the lodge and reflect on the day's adventures with your fellow travellers over dinner.

Accommodation
  • Toshari Lodge or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Etosha National Park - Game drives
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Enjoy a morning Game Drive in the Park then venture off the beaten track as you head into the heart of Damaraland (220km approximately 5 hours). Home to Namibia's highest peak, ancient rock paintings and petrified forests, the harshly beautiful and sparsely populated Damaraland region is a land of spectacular contrasts. Depending on the time of year, you might be lucky enough to see the desert elephants that roam the area.
Accommodation
  • Mopane Lodge or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Etosha National Park - Game drives
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Special Information
Many of the roads we travel on today will be untarred and often corrogated. They are some of the worst on this itinerary so be prepared from some extra bumps.

Spend the morning visiting the surrounding sights such as Twyfelfontein Heritage Site and the Petrified Forest. Twyfelfontein has one of the largest concentrations of ancient rock engraving in southern Africa and is a fascinating insight into the past. The Petrified Forest looks back into nature’s history, where 280 million-year-old fossilised tree trunks lie. Continue on to the Living Museum of the Damara, which aims to reconstruct and preserve the 'lost culture’ of the Damara. Learn about this fascinating traditional culture that is, along with the San, the oldest nation in Namibia. Their original culture was a mixture of an archaic hunter-gatherer culture and herders of cattle, goats and sheep. Due to their loose social structures, the Damara struggle to defend themselves against colonisation – one of the reasons that the culture faced extinction. Return to the lodge around 2 pm, with the rest of the day free to relax by the pool, with a book or a nap.
Accommodation
  • Mopane Lodge or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Damaraland - Twyfelfontein Bushman Paintings
  • Damaraland - Twyfelfontein Heritage Site
  • Damaraland - Petrified Forest
  • Damaraland - Living Museum of the Damara
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Special Information
We will be accompanied by local guides at both the Petrified forest and the Twyfelfontein sites. The guided walks take between 30-60mins and although not difficult there are some steep rocks and hills at the Twyfelfontein site. It can get hot at this time of day so be sure to have a hat, sunscreen and a bottle of water with you.

On instances where we use an alternative lodge to Mopane Lodge, the included activities scheduled for today may occur a day earlier to minimise driving time.

Travel on through the Namib Desert today ( 330km approximately 6 hours with stops) to reach the Atlantic Ocean coastline. Take in the beautiful, diverse and colourful landscapes that stream past along the way; mountains, sand dunes, ocean waves and, shipwrecks. Your destination is the beachside town of Swakopmund on the Skeleton Coast. Upon arrival at Swakopmund, you will check into your hotel and have free time to enjoy this interesting township of German-Namibian atmosphere. The accommodation is within walking distance of the town, and you can enjoy a walk on the beach, or visit the open-air markets or local museum.
Accommodation
  • Hotel Zum Kaiser or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
Special Information
Your leader will take you to a local activity centre where a range of activities will be on offer. We have not risk assessed all activities and only those listed in our trip notes are recommended. If you are unsure please check with your leader.
Please note that it is against company policy for leaders to facilitate the booking of any activities that have not been risk assessed or do not adhere to our company’s Responsible Travel policy and ethos. This includes organising transport to and from these activities in our vehicles.

With free time today, you may wish to take an optional trip north to Cape Cross, a breeding site for Cape fur seals. There can be in excess of 100,000 seals there at any given time, making for quite the spectacle. Quite a smell too, if the wind happens to change direction. Wander the coastline and attempt to document these beautiful creatures in a photo or two, and visit the large cross that sits nearby, left there by Diego Cao (the first European to arrive on Namibian soil in 1485). There are also a number of optional activities available here (at extra cost) for those who are interested.
Accommodation
  • Hotel Zum Kaiser or similar (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Swakopmund - Swakopmund Museum - USD2
  • Swakopmund - Horse riding - USD65
  • Swakopmund - Sand boarding - USD50
  • Swakopmund - Seal and dolphin cruise - USD60
  • Swakopmund - Fishing trip - USD120
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Depart your coastal retreat in Swakopmund and head south today towards Sesriem (300km approximately 6 hours). Walvis Bay is the hibernation area for thousands of migratory birds, most notably flamingos. If in season you may take quick detour to see these elegant birds. Continue on past moon valley; an eerie rocky granite valley, and the Tropic of Capricorn. Stop by the small settlement of Solitaire before arriving at your lodge. Scattered with abandoned trucks, cars, petrol pumps and cacti, it's the only place between Walvis Bay and Sossusvlei to feature a petrol station, post office, general dealer, and bakery! The local Apple Pie has earned itself quite a reputation too.
Accommodation
  • Namib Desert Lodge or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

Make an early-morning visit to Sossusvlei, which lies at the end of an ancient riverbed. This is a great opportunity for unsurpassed views of the surrounding area. Climbing to the top of Dune 45 will reward you with spectacular vistas of the surreal desert landscape. After breakfast, travel to Dead Vlei, a clay pan best known for the iconic postcard like images that many snap here. The pan is surrounded by some of the highest dunes in the world, "Big Daddy" or "Crazy Dune" average about 350 metres in height. In the afternoon you will visit Sesriem Gorge, a tranquil natural corridor that you can walk through and explore. Return to the lodge for the evening.
Accommodation
  • Namib Desert Lodge or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Sesriem - Sesriem Canyon
  • Sesriem - Dune 45
  • Sesriem - Sossusvlei Salt Pan
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Special Information
If you want to avoid a long walk in the sun you can opt to pay for a 4x4 transfer from the 2x2 car park out to the Dead Vlei.entrance point This will cost approx. 130NAD per person.

Depart Sossusvlei early this morning and travel to Fish River Canyon (600km approximately 8-9 hours). Your accommodation for the next two nights is a gem hidden in this rugged environment. It's easy to see why the Canyon Lodge is a feature stay on this trip. A fusion of farmhouse flavour and natural splendour, walkways lead to 25 natural stone chalets nestled amongst granite boulders and perfectly landscaped gardens, making it really feel like an oasis in the middle of nowhere. After checking into the lodge you may like to cool off in the stunning pool, wrap up the day with a short excursion to our very own ‘local’ mountain, or simply have a drink and watch the sun go down.
Accommodation
  • Feature Stay at Canyon Lodge or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Rise early and witness the colourful sunrise from the edge of Fish River Canyon. At 500 metres deep and over 160 km long, this gaping chasm is one of the largest canyons in the world, ranking close in size to Peru's Colca Canyon and the Grand Canyon in the USA. You will stop at various lookouts, which offer spectacular views and photographic opportunities. Keep an eye out for some of the birds that inhabit this area, including plovers, wagtails, hammerkops and herons. If you're lucky you might even catch a glimpse of a baboon or antelope. After capturing all the photos you like, make your way to the main viewpoint and sit down to enjoy picnic breakfast with an unforgettable view over the canyon. Return to the lodge and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. There are a number of optional activities that you might like to join: take a guided drive to the Fish River Canyon and be inspired by new perspective; meander along the 4WD Wildebeest Drive watching plains animals; or celebrate sunset from a hillock, overlooking the spectacular scenery.
Accommodation
  • Feature Stay at Canyon Lodge or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Fish River Canyon - Sunrise and Picnic Breakfast
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Farewell Fish River Canyon and head on to Orange River, just a short 2.5 to 3 hour drive away ( 200km ). You should reach your destination on the banks of the river by lunchtime. The Orange River is the longest stream in South Africa, running from high up in the Drakensberg mountain range and down into the Atlantic Ocean. This stream is significant for its role in transporting diamonds, which in turn leaves the deposits that are found along the Namibian coastline. Set off this afternoon on a 10 kilometre canoe journey down the Orange River. The canoe trip will be done in 2 man canoes with a local guide. It is a slow paced, easy trip, and you should be travelling simply down stream for most or all of the trip.
Accommodation
  • Felixe Unite or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Orange River - Canoe trip
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Leaving Namibia behind, you will cross the border and travel into South Africa (approximately 7 hours). The approximately 450 kilometres drive will be south of the Orange River to a wine farm in Trawal. You will arrive in the late afternoon or early evening (depending on border crossing formalities). Highlanders is a working wine farm nestled among the farmland of the Olifants River area, sitting at the foot of the Cedarberg mountain range. The farm uses water from the oldest irrigation scheme in South Africa and delivers its grapes to Klawer Cellars, a local cooperative wine cellar. Dutch settlers planted the first vineyards in the area in the late 1600s. However, the vineyards only flourished after the canal was built from Clanwilliam Dam during World War II, and have since won prizes both locally and internationally. This evening you’ll enjoy a unique wine tasting, taking in seven of the regions finest wines with your experienced and knowledgeable host ‘Sparky’.
Accommodation
  • Highlanders Lodge or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Trawal - Olifants Wine & Cheese Tasting
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Special Information
Accommodation for tonight is best available in the region. However, the bar and swimming pool offer breath-taking views of the wine farms & mountains, rooms are simple, clean and comfortable.

Continue on to the South African capital, Cape Town ( 300km approximately 5 hours). With its stunning coastline, dramatic surrounding mountains and modern cityscape, Cape Town is one of Africa's most appealing cities and a great place to end the trip. The rest of the day until the evening is at your leisure. The infamous Robben Island (Nelson Mandela’s prison for 18 years), vineyards, the V&A Waterfront, adventure activities and plenty of good restaurants and cafes are all at your doorstep. If time permits, you can take the cable car up to Table Mountain. This evening you’ll enjoy a memorable dinner with the group in the Bo-Kapp region of Cape Town. Known for its brightly coloured houses and situated at the foot of Signal Hill, Bo-Kaap is the spiritual home of the Cape’s Muslim community. Bo-Kaap has a fascinating history. Many of the residents are descendants of slaves from Malaysia, Indonesia and various African countries, who were imported to the Cape of Good Hope by the Dutch during the 16th and 17th centuries. The slaves were (often mistakenly) known as “Cape Malays”, and the term has stuck, with Bo-Kaap known today as the Cape Malay Quarter. Get an insight into this history when you step inside the ‘purple house’ of Faldela and her family. Learn how to make samosas, before sitting down to an authentic home-cooked dinner. Taste some of the traditional dishes such as ‘Bredie’, ‘Chilli Bites’ and ‘Koesisters’. Learn about why the houses are painted in bright colours and how the community supports each other from your story-telling host.
Accommodation
  • The Commodore Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Cape Town - Cape Malay Cooking Class
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Special Information
Dinner this evening is served with juice or cordial. This is a muslim home and is therefore alcohol free.

You journey through Namibia and South Africa comes to an end today. There are no activities planned for the final day and this trip finishes after breakfast. There’s plenty to see and do in Cape Town and extending your stay is recommended. Please speak to your booking agent about additional post tour accommodation.
Optional Activities
  • Cape Town - Table Mountain Hike - ZAR720
  • Cape Town - Table Mountain Aerial Cable - ZAR250
  • Cape Town - Robben Island tour - ZAR260
  • Cape Town - South African Museum - ZAR27
  • Cape Town - District Six Museum - ZAR25
  • Cape Town - Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens - ZAR45
  • Cape Town - South Africa National Gallery - ZAR35
  • Cape Town - Harbour cruise - ZAR200
  • Cape Town - Bo-Kaap Museum - ZAR30
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Meals

47 breakfasts, 30 lunches, 38 dinners

Transport

Private vehicle, Riverboat, Overnight sleeper train, Boat, Custom-built overland vehicle, 4WD vehicle, Houseboat, Mokoro, Plane

Accommodation

Hotel (12 nights), Overnight sleeper train (1 night), Cruise ship (4 nights), Lodge (14 nights), Feature Stay Lodge (4 nights), Permanent tented camp (5 nights), Feature Stay tented camp (2 nights), Beach resort (2 nights), Houseboat (2 nights), Cultural village (1 night)

Included Activities

  • Cairo - The Egyptian Museum
  • Cairo - The Egyptian Museum headset
  • Cairo - Pyramids and Sphinx
  • Luxor - Karnak Temple
  • Luxor - Hatshepsut Temple
  • Luxor - Valley of the Kings (3 tombs)
  • Luxor - Tut Ank Amon Tomb entrance
  • Kom Ombo - Kom Ombo Temple
  • Aswan - Philae Temple
  • Abu Simbel - Abu Simbel temples
  • Abu Simbel - Flights to and from Abu Simbel
  • Cairo - Gayer Anderson
  • Cairo - Home Cooked Meal
  • Cairo - Khan al-Khalili Bazaar
  • Cairo - Ibn Tulun Mosque
  • Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
  • Lake Naivasha - Boat trip
  • Lake Elementaita - Elsamere Conservation Centre
  • Lake Nakuru - Afternoon Game Drive (4x4)
  • Loita Hills - Cultural talk and village visit
  • Masai Mara - 4x4 Game Drive
  • Kisii - Soapstone factory visit and demonstration
  • Serengeti - Game Drive (Overland Vehicle)
  • Serengeti - Sundowner in the Park
  • Serengeti - Private Dinner Kati Kati Camp
  • Ngorongoro Crater - 4x4 Game Drive
  • Victoria Falls - The Boma Dinner & Experience
  • Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer (shared)
  • Victoria Falls - Entrance & Visit
  • Chobe National Park - 4x4 Game Drive
  • Chobe National Park - River Safari Cruise
  • Makgadikgadi Pans - Meerkat Pan Experience
  • Makgadikgadi Pans - Sunset & Sundowner
  • Okavango Delta - Houseboat River Cruise
  • Okavango Delta - Speedboat Cruise
  • Okavango Delta - Mokoro tours & game walks
  • Central Kalahari - San Cultural Experience
  • Etosha National Park - Game drives
  • Damaraland - Twyfelfontein Bushman Paintings
  • Damaraland - Twyfelfontein Heritage Site
  • Damaraland - Petrified Forest
  • Damaraland - Living Museum of the Damara
  • Sesriem - Sesriem Canyon
  • Sesriem - Dune 45
  • Sesriem - Sossusvlei Salt Pan
  • Fish River Canyon - Sunrise and Picnic Breakfast
  • Orange River - Canoe trip
  • Trawal - Olifants Wine & Cheese Tasting
  • Cape Town - Cape Malay Cooking Class

Dates & availability

Trip search is unavailable.

There are currently no scheduled departures on our Grand Africa: Cairo to Cape Town trip. If you are interested in other trips in the region visit one of the links below.

Prices may change, so secure your trip today!
Jump to a departure month

Important notes

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT:
An optional single supplement is available on this trip. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
Please note - the single supplement does not apply to the nights spent on the Sleeper Train between Cairo and Luxor, the Houseboat (2 nights) or at the San Lodge in Ghanzi.

HOUSEBOAT:
It is important to know that the cabin sizes in the houseboat are smaller than a standard room. It would be best to pack a day pack for these 2 nights and leave any excess luggage with the truck. This will make it easier for you to get on and off the houseboat and to store a day pack as opposed to your backpack.There are no ensuite rooms on the houseboat, so the bathroom facilities will be shared.

GHANZI LODGE:
The lodges used here support the local San D'Kar community and is owned and run by the San people. This is a unique, cultural Kalahari experience and the standard of accommodation may be below what you would expect on a Peregrine trip - but the experience is well worth it.

FLIGHTS:
Flights between Zanzibar, Johannesburg and Victoria Falls are included. You will be unescorted for this portion of the itinerary.
You will also be unescorted for the Zanzibar sector, but our local representatives will be on hand to look after you on arrival.

COMBINATION TRIP:
This is a combination trip and the composition of your group may change in Nairobi, Zanzibar, Victoria Falls & Windhoek.

Following recent safety incidents we recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest information on travelling in Egypt before your departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all areas of your itinerary. We have links to prominent government travel advisories and regular updates on issues affecting this trip on our Travel Alerts page - http://www.peregrineadventures.com/en-au/travel-alerts

Essential trip information

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

View Essential Trip Information

Reviews

Check Availability