55 Day Best of Africa North

Day 1:South Africa – Cederberg Region

Leaving Cape Town this morning we make a last stop for a look back at Table Mountain, picture taken we travel across the Piekenierskloof Pass on our way to the Cedarberg Region. No road trip is complete without a stop at a traditional Padstal, these small farm stalls dot the byways of South Africa and offer a variety of homemade treats and bakes. The Cedarberg region not only boasts spectacular mountains and orange farms, but it is also the home of the Rooibos bush. Indigenous to the mountain slopes of the Cedarberg, this herbal beverage has earned an international reputation as a healthy and refreshing alternative to regular tea. A wine tasting and traditional dinner offer an opportunity for us to get acquainted while enjoying some South African hospitality.

Route

• Cape Town to Citrusdal

Activity Package

• Wine tasting & traditional dinner

Day 2:Namaqualand – Gariep (Orange) River

Namaqualand presents us with our first experience of the Desert vistas that will accompany us in the days ahead. We continue our journey north and after a short stop for supplies in Springbok, travel to our camp on the banks of the Orange River. If you are fortunate enough to be travelling in the spring months (July to September) you may encounter the wild flowers that have made this region famous. No matter the time of year though, the strange desert vistas offer a unique backdrop to this days travel.

Route

• Citrusdal to Vioolsdrift

Activity Package

• Spring Wild Flower (Seasonal July – September)

Day 3:Namibia – Gariep (Orange) River – Fish River Canyon

While the Orange River was named after the Dutch royal House, in recent times it has been referred to by its original name of Gariep, which simply means “river” in the indigenous KhoeKhoe language. Beginning its journey in the mountains of Lesotho the Orange River is the longest river in South Africa and offers a unique contrast to the desert landscapes along its banks. The best way to experience the river is by getting out on the water and this morning we have the opportunity to join an optional canoe trip on the river. Later this morning we cross the border into Namibia and travel onwards to the Fish River Canyon, one of the largest in the world. This afternoon we take a walk along the rim of the canyon and end our day with a memorable sunset on the canyon edge.

Route

• Orange/Gariep River to Fish River Canyon

Activity Package

• Scenic walk along the rim of Fish River Canyon

Day 4:Namib-Naukluft National Park

Every overland journey has some long travelling days and today is one of those as we venture deeper into the Namib Desert. Our destination is the dune fields that cover the western reaches of the desert. Long dusty roads and sparsely populated farmlands offer us an insight into the vastness of rural Namibia. From the grasslands in the east to the red dunes of the west the slowly changing landscapes represents the many faces of this desert country. Tonight we camp on the doorstep of the dune fields and fall asleep to the unique calls of the elusive Barking Gecko.

Route

• Fish River Canyon to Namib Naukluft

Day 5:Sossusvlei Dunes – Namib-Naukluft National Park

Watching the sunrise over the red dunes is an iconic highlight of any trip to Namibia and this morning we rise before the sun to capture this magnificent moment. A brisk climb up Dune 45 offers us the perfect vantage point to marvel at the changing colours of the desert sunrise. Once satisfied we descend this famous dune and enjoy a hearty breakfast before catching a 4×4 transfer into Sossusvlei, here we will spend time on foot visiting the pans at Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. A last stop at the Sesriem Canyon may end our visit to the dune fields, but our day in the desert continues this afternoon as we join a local expert for an educational desert excursion. Tonight we empty the red sand from our shoes and spend the night under the magnificent desert stars, knowing that we have spent a full-day enjoying the wonders of this harsh land.

Route

• Namib-Naukluft NP to Naukluft Area

Included Activities

• Sunrise hike up Dune 45
• Walk into Sesriem Canyon
• 4×4 shuttle to Sossusvlei / Deadvlei

Activity Package

• Guided desert walk with local expert

Day 6:Swakopmund

Today we continue west and make our way to the coastal town of Swakopmund, where adventure and a dose of civilisation await. Reluctantly we leave the Namib behind and after a stop to mark our crossing of the Tropic of Capricorn, we continue to the Atlantic coastline. We make a brief stop at the Walvis Bay lagoon, where we hope to catch a glimpse of the Flamingo’s that feed in the shallows. Arriving in Swakopmund we will have the opportunity to book some of the many adventures on offer. We enjoy a dinner out at a local restaurant tonight.

Route

• Naukluft Area to Swakopmund

Included Activities

• Walvis Bay Lagoon
• Tropic of Capricorn

Optional Activities

• Dinner Out in Swakopmund

Day 7:Swakopmund

While for many it is the adrenaline fuelled adventures that will grab their attention, Swakopmund offers all that and more. Take the opportunity today to explore the town at your leisure, as there are a number of attractions for every taste. Not to be missed is the selection of famed coffee shops and bakeries that offer a delightful range of German inspired treats. Swakopmund offers all the conveniences of a small city and is the perfect launching pad for the journey through the northern reaches of the land.

Optional Activities

• Quad biking
• Sandboarding
• Skydiving
• Dolphin cruise
• Dinner Out in Swakopmund

Day 8:Spitzkoppe

This morning we travel a section of the famous Skeleton Coast road, passing the Salt Works we head north for a photo opportunity in the colourful town of Wlotskasbaken. Lichens are one of the most fascinating examples of symbiosis in nature, algae and fungus unite to form the Lichen and live inseparably as one organism. We will have the opportunity to view these fascinating desert inhabitants before turning east towards Spitzkoppe. These massive granite formations tower 700 metres above the desert plains below and the presence of rock art indicates their significance to the San people who lived here many years ago. We will enjoy a late afternoon walk with a local guide and have the opportunity to view some examples of the San’s rock art.

Route

• Swakopmund to Spitzkoppe

Included Activities

• Visit and explore Spitzkoppe with a local guide

Day 9:Himba Tribes: Outjo

We continue north this morning and on our way we will visit a project that will introduce us to the Himba people of Northern Namibia.

The semi-nomadic Himba Tribe are extremely susceptible to Western influence and have lost a large portion of their land to farmers, engineers, miners and many were displaced during the wars that raged between Namibia and Angola. The dwindling number of pastoralists that still exist in their natural environment are protected as far as possible by creating a “buffer zone”, or an “educational tribe” where tourists who would like to get a better understanding of the way of the Himba, their lifestyle and their traditions, can do so without interfering with those still living in their natural environment. Visiting the Himba tribe can be a controversial topic that gets discussed at the camp fire, however not so much if the reason for visiting this particular tribe is understood beforehand. The income that this specific tribe generates from the visits goes towards the education of orphaned Himba children and assists the tribe in giving them a chance to learn about their own culture and heritage. There is a market at the end of your visit, this is a way for the women to establish a small income, used for their own private expenses, and it is up to you whether you’d like to purchase anything or not.

We continue to our camp for the night and prepare for two magical days of game viewing in Etosha National Park.

Route

• Spitzkoppe to Outjo

Activity Package

• Himba Tribe visit

Day 10:Etosha National Park

Rising early this morning we make the short drive to the Etosha National Park. Etosha is the venue for some of the most unique game viewing experiences in Africa. Today we have a full-day to explore the edges of Etosha Pan in search of the abundant wildlife that occurs in the park. Our truck offers us an elevated platform and we will spend some time at the many waterholes dotted throughout the park. Evenings in Etosha are best spent wrapped up warm at the floodlit waterholes at the camps. Those who wish to partake in an optional night drive may do so tonight.

Route

• Outjo to Etosha National Park

Included Activities

• Afternoon game drive
• Optional Activities
• Etosha Night Drive – subject to availability

Day 11:Etosha National Park

Our second day in Etosha allows another full day to continue our exploration of the park. No day on safari is ever the same and the suspense before that special sighting is the motivation that keeps our eyes wide open. Tonight a second opportunity presents for those who wish to do an optional night drive, while the floodlit waterholes ensure that our game viewing continues deep into the night.

Included Activities

• Full day game drive

Optional Activities

• Etosha Night Drive – subject to availability

Day 12:Windhoek

A last early morning and short game drive to the gate sees us wrap up our visit to Etosha and take aim for Windhoek, the capital city of Namibia. Today we make a brief stop at the craft markets of Okahandja before arriving in Windhoek in the afternoon. We will take a short walk through the city centre and have the opportunity to view some its better known landmarks. Tonight we have the chance to eat at Windhoek’s most famous eatery, Joe’s Beer House has gained an international reputation for its venison dishes and quirky atmosphere.

Route

• Etosha National Park to Windhoek

Optional Activities

• Dinner at Windhoek

Included Activities

• Walk through Windhoek with your guide
• Craft market stop en-route

Day 13:Botswana – Ghanzi

Today we travel east and make our way to neighbouring Botswana and the Kalahari Desert. Starkly different to the Namib Desert after which Namibia is named, the Kalahari is no less dramatic and covers over 900 000 square kilometres. The San people have long been associated with this harsh environment and tonight we enjoy a dance evening that provides an insight into their culture of song, dance and story-telling.

Route

• Windhoek to Ghanzi

Included Activities

• San Evening Dance Performance

Day 14:Gateway to the Okavango Delta

The San people have existed in some of the harshest conditions for thousands of years and this morning you will have the opportunity of joining an optional walk with San guides to learn how they embrace the environment to survive. This afternoon we journey to the banks of the Okavango River, our launching pad for the Okavango Delta excursion. Your guide will brief you on what to pack for the Delta excursion, a small daypack or overnight bag will be needed due to space restrictions for our transfers to and from camp.

Route

• Ghanzi to Etsha

Optional Activities

• San Walk

Day 15:Okavango Delta

Today we embark on our Okavango Delta excursion. This unique and unusual ecosystem sees the annual flood waters of the Okavango River fan out into the sands of the Kalahari Basin. The seasonality of the flood waters lends the Delta its ever changing character. While water levels may fluctuate the tranquillity of this wilderness area remains constant.

Activity Package

• Okavango Delta excursion

Day 16:Okavango Delta

A full day is set aside to enjoy the activities on offer in the Delta, while the programme of activities is flexible to accommodate the seasonal changes, you will have the opportunity to enjoy amongst other activities traditional mokoro rides and natures walks. The Okavango Delta is not only a natural wonder, but represents one of the last great wilderness areas in the world today.

Day 17:Okavango Delta – Caprivi Region

Leaving the Delta behind us this morning we make our way to the border and re-enter Namibia. As we transit through the Caprivi Strip, much of our day is spent travelling through Game Parks and there is always the possibility of a lucky sighting. We overnight a short distance from the Botswana border as we prepare for an exciting day of activities in Chobe National Park tomorrow.

Today we embark on our Okavango Delta excursion. This unique and unusual ecosystem sees the annual flood waters of the Okavango River fan out into the sands of the Kalahari Basin. The seasonality of the flood waters lends the Delta its ever changing character. While water levels may fluctuate the tranquillity of this wilderness area remains constant.

Route

• Okavango Delta to Caprivi Region

Day 18:Kasane – Chobe National Park

We enjoy our breakfast in Namibia this morning before returning to Botswana and our camp on the banks of the Chobe River. Lunch will be served from the truck and the afternoon is set aside for exploring the Chobe National Park. We begin our exploration in 4×4 vehicles, which allows us an up close and personal experience with the many Elephants that frequent the River in the afternoons. The afternoon ends with a leisurely Boat Cruise and a meal served around the campfire.

Route

• Caprivi Region to Kasane

Day 19:Zimbabwe -Victoria Falls

With the memories of our wildlife encounters firmly etched in our minds, we cross the border in Zimbabwe this morning and travel the short distance to Victoria Falls. Today we visit the spectacular Victoria Falls, also known by the local name of “Mosi-oa Tunya” (the smoke that thunders). While much of today is dedicated to viewing the mighty Zambezi River as it drops into the Batoka Gorge below, the bustling adventure town of Victoria Falls also offers a range of optional activities for those wanting a dose of adrenaline in the afternoon. For the more relaxed traveller there are craft markets and coffee shops on offer as well. Tonight we enjoy an optional dinner out, your guide will assist you to decide on the many options available.

Route

• Kasane to Victoria Falls

Optional Activity

• Dinner at Victoria Falls
• Activity Package
• Vic Falls National Park entry

Day 20:Victoria Falls

With the many activities on offer in Victoria Falls, today is the perfect day for the adventure that most suits your style. Whether rafting the mighty Zambezi River or enjoying a flight over the Falls, this is your day to enjoy the many attractions on offer in Victoria Falls.

Optional Activities

• Bungee Jump – Solo
• White Water Rafting
• Helicopter Flights
• Zambezi Sunset Cruise

Day 21:Lusaka

Setting off early from Victoria Falls, we catch a last sighting of the mighty falls before crossing the border into Zambia. While we have a long day travelling today, we get our first impressions of the Africa that awaits us. Colourful markets, busy villages and rural scenes form the backdrop of our journey to the outskirts of Lusaka. We enjoy a prepared meal on arrival as our guides brief us on the days ahead.

Route

• Victoria Falls to Lusaka

Included Activities

• View of Victoria Falls from the Bridge

Day 22:Petauke

This morning we drive through Zambia’s busy capital Lusaka before turning east towards Petauke, our destination for the night. As an important link between Lusaka and neighbouring Malawi, the Great East Road winds through rural Zambia and we will cross the mighty Luangwa River along the way. Dotted with villages and subsistence farms, todays landscapes serve as a stark contrast to the developed countries so many of us call home.

Route

• Lusaka to Petauke

Day 23:South Luangwa National Park

With two days of travel behind us we look forward to the tranquillity of South Luangwa and this morning we make our way to the banks of the Luangwa River. Our first stop though is the town of Chipata, home of Chipata Cotton and an important centre for the cotton famers of the region. Tribal Textiles represents the creativity of the African culture and those interested can enjoy a tour of their workshops (March to December). One of the finest sunsets is surely that enjoyed on the banks of the Luangwa River, so grab a cold drink and watch the day fade away.

Route

• Petauke to South Luangwa National Park

Included Activities

• Textile project visit

Day 24:South Luangwa National Park

South Luangwa National Park is a world-class safari destination and we have a full day to explore the park in search of the variety of wildlife found in the park. This morning you can partake in an optional morning safari or during the dry season (April to December) you can join one of the iconic walking safaris on offer in the park. This afternoon we will enjoy a Sunset Drive in the park, we split our time between day and night with a sundowner stop in between. The unique opportunity to explore the park at night gives us a chance to spot the elusive nocturnal species that are rarely seen in the day.

Optional Activities

• Morning Game Drive in South Luangwa
• Safari Walk (seasonal)

Activity Package

• Sunset Game Drive in South Luangwa National Park

Day 25:Lake Malawi – Malawi

This morning we board our truck and set off for Malawi, the warm heart of Africa. Our destination tonight is the shores of Lake Malawi, the southernmost lake in the East African Rift system. As one of the ten largest lakes in the world, the lake stretches for over 500km along the western boundary of Malawi and is home to more species of fish than other lake. We spend the night on the shores of this natural wonder.

Route

• South Luangwa National Park to Lake Malawi

Day 26:Northern Lake Malawi

Taking our time this morning we enjoy the charms of sunrise on the Lake, we head out this afternoon and come to rest on the northern reaches of the lake shore. Here we spend a few days indulging in the many attractions that underlie the charm of the Lake and its people. Our base for the next three nights offers a range of opportunities to satisfy every wish.

Route

• Southern Lake Malawi to Northern Lake Malawi

Day 27:Lake Malawi

Amongst the myriad of optional activities to fill your days, we will pay a visit to a local community this morning to meet the people of the lake. Hikers will find a selection of trips, including a rather strenuous outing to the mission village of Livingstonia, set high above the lake. Snorkelling in the crystal waters offers the chance to see first-hand the brilliantly coloured tropical cichlids, tiny fish often found in colourful aquariums around the world. Your guide will assist you to plan your activities for the coming days, or you can simply slow your clock to Africa time relaxing on the lake shore.

Optional Activities

• Community Volunteering
• Livingstonia day trip (hike)
• Snorkelling Lake Malawi
• Included Activities
• Local Village Visit

Day 28:Lake Malawi

This morning we set aside some time for a visit to Karonga, this interesting town has a turbulent history as a centre Malawi’s slave trade. Home to a museum that boasts a dinosaur amongst its displays, we learn more of the rich history of both people and the natural world. We return for a final afternoon of relaxation and a final sundowner on the shores of this great lake.

Included Activities

• Museum Visit
• Karonga Town

Optional Activities

• Community Volunteering
• Livingstonia day trip (hike)
• Snorkelling Lake Malawi

Day 29:Tanzania – Iringa

Today as we leave Malawi, we ascend the Great Rift Valley and make our way into Tanzania. We round the northern extremes of the lake as we turn east and continue to our overnight stop in Iringa.

Route

• Northern Lake Malawi to Iringa

Day 30: Mikumi

This morning we complete our journey to the doorstep of Mikumi National Park. Mikumi ranks as the fourth largest park in Tanzania, but forms part of a 75 000 square kilometre wilderness that centres on Selous, Africa’s largest game reserve. Abutting the northern border of this vast wilderness, Mikumi offers us an opportunity for an afternoon of game viewing.

Route

• Iringa to Mikumi

Activity Package

• Mikumi National Park game drive

Day 31:Dar es Salaam

Today we continue onwards to the bustling port of Dar es Salaam, tonight we have an opportunity to dinner out on the town as we prepare for our upcoming excursion to Zanzibar. Dar es Salaam grew from a humble fishing village and today is one of the largest cities in Africa.

Route

• Mikumi to Dar es Salaa

Day 32:Zanzibar Excursion

Boarding the ferry to Zanzibar this morning we make the ocean journey to the island of Zanzibar. On arrival we will partake in a Spice Tour before reaching Nungwi on the northern point of the island. Our home for the next two nights, Nungwi offers a perfect stop to enjoy the beaches and activities on offer.

Route

• Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar by ferry – transfer to Nungwi

Optional Activities

• Snorkelling
• Sunset Sailing Trips

Included Activities

• Spice Tour and City Tour

Activity Package

• 3-Day Zanzibar excursion

Day 33:Zanzibar Excursion

Today is a free day for enjoying some of the many attractions and activities on offer. Water sports are the order of the day and Nungwi offers fishing, snorkelling, scuba diving and a variety of ocean safari options. Whatever it is you chose to do today, you will have ample opportunity to create some island memories. Rent a scooter and explore the many attractions on offer or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.

Optional Activities

• Jozani Forest
• Village Tour
• Turtle Sanctuary Visit
• Scuba Diving
• Fishing
• Snorkelling

Day 34:Zanzibar Excursion

Our visit to Nungwi comes to an end today as we travel to Stone Town this afternoon. Boasting a rich history this bustling port was once a landmark on both the Slave and Spice trade routes. We overnight here before returning to Dar es Salaam in the morning.

Route

• Nungwi Beach to Stone Town

Day 35:Dar es Salaam – Bagamoyo

Leaving the Delta behind us this morning we make our way to the border and re-enter Namibia. As we transit through the Caprivi Strip, much of our day is spent travelling through Game Parks and there is always the possibility of a lucky sighting. We overnight a short distance from the Botswana border as we prepare for an exciting day of activities in Chobe National Park tomorrow.

Route

• Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam by ferry; Dar es Salaam to Bagamoyo

Places

• Stone Town

Day 36:Arusha

Heading north this morning we travel across the northern reaches of Tanzania, our destination tonight is the bustling town of Arusha which is our launching point for the Serengeti. Northern Tanzania is home to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Kilimanjaro. This evening we will briefed on the excursion to Serengeti by our local guide as we prepare for the coming days.

Route

• Bagamoyo to Arusha

Day 37:Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater Excursion

Leaving the Delta behind us this morning we make our way to the border and re-enter Namibia. As we transit through the Caprivi Strip, much of our day is spent travelling through Game Parks and there is always the possibility of a lucky sighting. We overnight a short distance from the Botswana border as we prepare for an exciting day of activities in Chobe National Park tomorrow.

Route

• Arusha to Serengeti National Park

Places

• Serengeti National Park

Optional Activities

• 4-Day Serengeti camping excursion

Day 38:Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater Excursion

We spend the entire day game driving through the Serengeti. Our route is depending on the movement of the game and sightings.

Day 39:Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater Excursion

Today we explore more of the Serengeti and make our way to the famous Ngorongoro Crater. We drive down to the bottom of the Crater, where we try and see as many animals as possible.

Route

• Serengeti to Ngorongoro

Places

• Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area

Day 40:Arusha

Returning to Arusha tonight we share out experiences of the Serengeti and prepare for the trip to Nairobi tomorrow.

Route

• Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha

Day 41:Kenya – Nairobi

We cross the border into Kenya this morning and make our way to Nairobi.

Route

• Arusha to Nairobi

Optional Activities

• Dinner

Day 42:Nairobi – Masai Mara National Reserve

We leave the capital of Nairobi and travel to the Masai Mara, world renowned for its endless plains of wild animals and spectacular beauty. The visit to the Masai Mara is operated in safari type vehicles. For this reason, you are asked to pack a small overnight bag to travel with. You will need your towel, clothes, toiletries and camping essentials.

Route

• Nairobi to Masai Mara

Route

• Kenyan Parks Highlights Excursion

Day 43:Masai Mara National Reserve

The rolling grasslands of the Masai Mara offer ideal game viewing and photographic opportunities. Some of the other animals that could be found here include elephant, black rhino, buffalo, leopard, cheetah, wildebeest, zebra and gazelle. Hippo and crocodile abound in the muddy brown waters of the rivers, which traverse this reserve. Today we will spend the entire day game driving through the Mara in search of all the animals.

Highlights

• Masai Mara National Reserve

Day 44:Lake Nakuru National Park

This morning we bid the Mara farewell before heading to Lake Nakuru National Park, here we will enjoy an afternoon game drive through the park. Lake Nakuru is home to large flocks of Flamingos and pelicans as well as black & white rhino, leopard, lion and numerous buck. Originally created as a bird sanctuary, Lake Nakuru was upgraded to National Park status in 1968.

Route

• Masai Mara Reserve to Lake Nakuru National Park

Places

• Lake Nakuru National Park

Day 45:Jinja

This morning we not only cross the border into Uganda, but shortly after setting out this morning we cross the Equator on our way to Jinja. Jinja is Uganda’s second largest city and most famous as the point where the Nile (officially the Victoria Nile) flows out of Lake Victoria and begins the 6695 kilometre journey to Egypt and the Mediterranean.

Route

• Lake Nakuru to Jinja

Included Activities

• Crossing of the Equator

Day 46:Masindi – Murchison Falls National Park

After a quick stop in the city of Kampala, we head in the direction of The Murchison Falls National Park. Also referred to as the Kabaraga Falls, Murchison Falls is a waterfall found on the course of the great Nile and are located within the Murchison National Park. The park is recognized as one of the best National Parks in Uganda. After settling into our accommodation in Masindi, your guide will brief you on the activities for the following day.

Route

• Okavango Delta to Caprivi Region

Day 47:Masindi – Budongo Central Forest Reserve

Budongo Forest is the biggest Mahogany forest found in the whole of East Africa and is home to the largest number of chimpanzees throughout Uganda. It is believed that there are between 600 – 700 chimpanzees in Budongo and this morning we will meet up with our chimp guide who will take us on our trek through the forest in search of the chimps. We will also enjoy a game drive through the park in search of the great diversity of wild animals. Note: As the Chimp trekking is limited to 12 guests per trek, should there be more than 12 guests on a tour the trekking will be split between the morning and the afternoon. Therefore you may find that you will first do the game drive activity followed by the Chimp trekking or vice versa. Please allow for flexibility.

Activity Package

• Chimp Trekking Murchison Falls

Included Activities

• Visit to Murchison Falls lookout
• Game drive (half day)

Day 48:Kampala

While we spend the night in the bustling capital city of Kampala, this morning we have the opportunity to visit the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. These majestic animals are in a literal fight for their survival. Rhino Fund Uganda (RFU) was formed as a Non-Government Organization (NGO) in 1997 and is tasked with overseeing its aim of reintroducing Rhinoceros, a highly endangered species across the globe, back into the National Parks of Uganda through a breeding and release program. Out of this emerged the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, 7000 hectares of imminently suitable savannah and native woodlands.

Route

• Masindi to Kampala

Activity Package

• Ziwa Rhino walk

Optional Activities

• Dinner

Day 49:Gorillas (Lake Bunyonyi)

Crossing the Equator once more we travel south to the beautiful scenery of Lake Bunyoni. With eager anticipation we prepare for the upcoming Gorilla trekking excursion and tonight we will receive a briefing on what to expect.

Route

• Kampala to Bunyonyi

Day 50:Gorillas (Lake Bunyonyi)

The mountain gorilla is extremely endangered and while exact numbers vary it is widely assumed that there are only around 650 left. Visiting the gorillas is a great way to support their future on earth as the money spent on permits is used for their protection. An extremely important part of the future conservation of the remaining gorillas rests in the community development work – as local communities change their attitudes towards wildlife and start to protect rather than poach, the future of the mountain gorilla is assured.

As permits granting permission to visit the gorillas are extremely limited we require flexibility in both the tour itinerary and where we actually visit them. The home of the mountain gorillas is completely at odds with man-made borders and so their range encompasses Uganda, Rwanda and the DRC (Democratic Republic of the Congo). Whenever possible we choose to make use of the National Park in Uganda, but this depends on the availability of permits. Should we not obtain permits to visit the mountain gorillas in Uganda then we will inform all passengers beforehand that the tour will travel to Rwanda or DRC.

On your free day in Bunyoni you will have the opportunity to participate in certain optional activities. You can also go hiking or explore the area on a mountain bike.

Route

• Lake Bunyonyi National Park to starting point of the gorilla trek (in safari or smaller vehicles)

Optional Activities

• Gorilla Trekking
• Highlights
• Mountain Gorilla

Day 51:Gorillas (Lake Bunyoni)

Although there are 2 days allocated to Gorilla Trekking you will only spend one day on the trek. The other days are there to provide a large enough window in which to obtain permits and to allow the entire group to trek if there are more than 6 of you on the tour. Today we will enjoy a visit to the Nyombi Village, a Pygmy village which is reached by motor boat from Bunyonyi Resort. We will have the opportunity to learn about the culture of the Pygmies and how they live.

Activity Package

• Pygmy village visit (including motor boat transfer)

Day 52:Lake Bunyonyi – Kampala

This morning we set off on our return journey to Kampala and make a third crossing of the Equator along our way. Tonight your guide will brief you on the activities available in Jinja so that you can plan your day tomorrow. We overnight in Kampala and enjoy an optional dinner out.

Route

• Lake Bunyonyi National Park to Kampala

Optional Activities

• Dinner

Day 53:Jinja

A short distance from Kampala, Jinja offers many exciting activities and your guide will assist you to plan for this day. Most activities are focussed around the waters of the Nile and these include rafting, kayaking and a variety of cruises on Africa’s largest river. While those who may be less inclined to water sports can enjoy horse riding or a quadbike adventure on dry land.

Route

• Kampala to Jinja

Day 54:Kenya – Eldoret

Returning to Kenya we visit Eldoret, the country’s 5th largest city. The Great Rift Valley is still the dominant geographical feature of this region and the altitude at Eldoret is 2100 metres above sea level.

Route

• Jinja to Eldoret

Day 55:Nairobi

Returning to Nairobi this afternoon we reflect on many memories that we have gathered together and brace ourselves for a return to the busy streets of Nairobi.

Route

• Eldoret to Nairobi

Optional Activities

• Dinner

Activity Package

Listed below are activities and highlights that form part of an “Activity Package”. On this particular tour, it is compulsory that this package is purchased as it includes essential activities that can not be excluded from the itinerary. The Activity Package has been written into the itinerary of the tour so please keep this in mind when booking your tour.

• Wine tasting & traditional dinner
• Guided desert walk with local expert
• Himba Tribe visit
• Okavango Delta excursion
• Chobe National Park game drive
• Chobe National Park boat cruise
• Vic Falls National Park entry
• Sunset Game Drive in South Luangwa National Park
• Mikumi National Park game drive
• 3-Day Zanzibar excursion
• Kenyan Parks Highlights Excursion
• Chimp Trekking Murchison Falls
• Ziwa Rhino walk
• Pygmy village visit (including motor boat transfer)