South East Adventure Trip Notes

Trip Overview

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Discover East Africa from Nairobi to Livingstone over 24 incredible days of adventure. Soak in world famous national parks and game drives. Experience the sublime beaches of Zanzibar island and Stone Town, thundering Victoria Falls and the welcoming Malawi. Encounter wildlife in its natural habitat, enjoy countless adventure activities, relax by the ocean side and indulge in the colourful cultures of East Africa.

Duration : 24 Days

Destination : Africa

Start/Ends in : Nairobi / Livingstone

Group Size : 5-15 Pax

Age Req. : 18+

Trip Theme : Adventure, Discovery

Hotels : Class Hotel

Departs : All Year Around

Intended Itinerary


It is our intention to adhere to the route described below but a certain amount of flexibility is built into the tour and on occasion, it may be necessary or desirable to make alterations to the published itinerary. Please, therefore, treat the following as a guide only. This is a participation tour. Our accommodated tour option travels together with the camping counterpart.

Duration: 24 Days

Countries visited: Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi and Zambia

Tour Preparation

BOOKING INFORMATION

When you make a confirmed booking for your tour you will be sent the booking documents and a pre-departure booklet with detailed information to help you prepare for your trip. Once you have paid in full you will receive a Travel Voucher giving details of your joining hotel. Nairobi (NBO) and Livingstone (LVI) are well served by several airlines.

GAME PARK VISITS

To maximise the quality of game driving and to comply with local authority rulings, some of our National Park visits and game viewing is carried out using services provided by local African ground handlers. As well as enhancing our experience using local guides and smaller vehicles it also allows us to contribute at a ‘grassroots’ level to local economies from which local people benefit.

JOINING INFORMATION

This tour starts in Nairobi. The pre-departure meeting is held at 18:00 on the evening prior to departure. The tour departs at 08:00 on Day 1 and ends in Livingstone on Day 24.

Meeting Point:

Meeting point in Nairobi:

Boulevard Hotel

Address: Harry Thuku Rd, PO Box 42831, Nairobi

Contact details:

Tel. +245 2 337221/ 227567/ 8/ 9
Fax: +245 2 334071


E-mail: [email protected]

Tour Meeting: 18:00 prior to departure Day 1
Tour Start time: 08:00 on Day 1

Finishing Point:

Tour end point in Livingstone:

Ashanti Lodge, Gardens

Address: Sichango Road, Livingstone

Contact details:

Tel + 260 3 320 606/7/8
E-mail: [email protected]

Tour ends: After breakfast on Day 24

Adventure Pass :

Every adventure camping tour has an Adventure Pass which is paid to your tour leader in Africa at the beginning of the tour (or pre-paid by arrangement prior to your tour). This is separate and in addition to the Tour Price, which is paid before travel, and is paid in the currency listed in the brochure or on the website (usually US dollars in clean, un-torn post 2008 edition notes). The Adventure Pass covers
selected park entries, activities and excursions along the way where payment goes directly to the supplier. The purpose of the separate payment is to ensure local suppliers benefit directly from the income.

Maasai Mara Excursion √
Serengeti/Ngorongoro Crater Excursion √

Luggage

Please try to keep your luggage to a minimum, bearing in mind that most airlines impose a 20kg limit. It should be brought in a soft holdall or rucksack along with a smaller day bag. You will need to bring a mixture of lightweight clothing and warm clothing for the evenings and early morning game drives. You also need a sleeping bag (and small pillow if preferred). We recommended you pack a small torch or headlamp, mosquito spray and a money pouch/ belt that can be easily hidden. Please try to avoid bringing unnecessary valuables and use your hotel safe to store the bulk of your money, passport, and airline tickets. A power bank is useful for recharging electronic devices.

NB KENYA PLASTIC BAG BAN – All forms of plastic carrier bags are banned in Kenya; including ‘Airport Duty Free’ plastic bags, airport security plastic bags for liquids, shopping bags, storage bags, zip-lock plastic bags. The strict ban applies to everyone and it is mandatory that you leave any form of plastic bag/s at your country of origin.

NB TANZANIA PLASTIC BAG BAN – Tanzania has a ban on single-use plastic. Prohibited items include single-use plastic carrier bags, shopping bags/packing plastic carrier bags. Ziplock bags and storage compartment bags (e.g toiletries) will be permitted as they are expected to remain in possession of traveller. We do however suggest that you leave these items behind in your country of origin.

Itinerary

Please note that the itinerary may be subject to small changes depending on the conditions during the tour. Alternative accommodation of similar standards may be used depending on the group size and hotel availability.

We depart the city early and make our way across the Great Rift Valley to the Maasai Mara National Reserve, enjoying views of the vast vista en route. We travel in small specialized safari vehicles that enable us to have a more intimate view of wildlife. We spend two nights camping on the edge of the Reserve with time to explore the park on morning and afternoon game drives.

Accommodation : Maasai Mara – Chronicle Tented Camp

Meals Included : Lunch, Dinner

WIFI: No

Optional Activities : No

We have the day to explore the Reserve in search for wildlife including the ‘big 5’ – lion, rhino, elephant, buffalo and leopard.

The sweeping plains, distant horizons, low slung acacia trees, and plentiful wildlife ensure a deeply evocative few days. The ‘Mara’ is crossed every year between July and October by great herds of wildebeest, zebra and other grazing animals in their migration from the adjoining Serengeti plains to the south (in Tanzania). How long they stay is dependent on rainfall and subsequent grass growth in the rainy season. Predators (such as lion, cheetah, leopard) and scavengers (hyena, vultures) follow the grazing animals and this enormous congregation of wildlife forms a spectacular display of Africa’s natural resource. But the Mara is excellent for game viewing at any time of year and regardless of when you can visit we hope to see some, if not all, of Africa’s ‘Big Five’ (elephant, lion, rhino, buffalo and leopard) and an array of other wildlife.

We stop for a lunch before returning to our tented camp for the evening.

Accommodation : Maasai Mara – Chronicle Tented Camp

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI : No

Optional Activities: No

From the Mara we make our way back across the Great Rift Valley to Nairobi, where we overnight.

  • Accommodation: Karen Camp – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI : Yes

Optional Activities: No

After crossing the border into Tanzania at the busy Namanga frontier we arrive at our destination, Arusha, in the late afternoon. Situated mid-way between Cape Town and Cairo, this is very much Tanzania’s ‘safari capital’ – a bustling city with colourful markets, shops, vehicles and people, all nestling in the shadow of the brooding Mt Meru (4556m). After exploring the curio markets, we head to our camp just outside Arusha on the open plains to the west of the city. It is from here that we prepare for our two night/three-day excursion to the Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater.  This afternoon, if time allows, we enjoy a walk to one of the local Maasai villages to enjoy an insight into everyday life and traditions of this colourful culture

Accommodation : Meserani Snake Park – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI : No

Optional Activities: Camel Ride US$5

This morning we transfer to smaller, more ‘game park friendly’ vehicles and drive west across the Great Rift Valley, passing through Mto Wa Mbo (‘mosquito creek’) and enter the Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area. We enter the park and drive around the ‘Crater’s rim and down onto the Serengeti plains. Green after the rains, brown and burnt in the dry, this is home to an enormous variety of grazing animals, predators, and birdlife. Flatter and larger than the Maasai Mara the Serengeti is simply huge – indeed the name derives from the Maasai word Siringitu – ‘the place where the land moves on forever’. We game drive to our designated (but unfenced) campsite for the evening where lion and hyena roam nearby, for an unforgettable experience.

Accommodation : Serengeti National Park: Bush Camp – Camping in twin share tents with basic shared facilities (no shower, pit latrine)

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI : No

Optional Activities : No

We drive out of the plains, game driving en route, and after lunch ascend the outer wall of the Ngorongoro Crater. We spend the night camping on the rim (you may need a jacket; it can be cold at night due to the altitude), where wildlife also roams free. At 326 square kilometres, the Ngorongoro is Africa’s largest intact caldera and a World Heritage Site. If the view from the rim (2400 metres above sea level) is spectacular, the site from the Crater floor (some 600 metres below) is equally enjoyable.

Accommodation: Simba Camp – Camping in twin share tents with basic shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI : No

Optional Activities : No

We wake early and descend the steep dirt road of the Ngorongoro Crater for a morning of game driving in this spectacular wildlife haven. All the large mammals are present except giraffe (which cannot manage the steep slopes leading down onto the Crater floor). After our game drive we ascend to our campsite on the rim for a final view over the Ngorongoro Crater, pack up our camp and have lunch before retracing our steps to Arusha and our campsite at the Meserani Snake Park.

Note: We may enjoy the Maasai walk on this day if we were unable to make this on day 4

Accomodation : Meserani Snake Park – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI: No

Optional Activities : No

This morning we wake early and head south via Moshi to Bagamoyo. If the weather is clear we will be afforded a view of the magnificent snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak (5895m). The quaint town of Bagamoyo was founded at the end of the 18th century and was one of the most significant trading ports along the East African coast. Our camp for the evening is situated close by to the palm fringed beaches of the Indian Ocean.

Accomodation : Fire Fly Camp – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI: No

Optional Activities : No

Leaving Bagamoyo we make our way south to Dar es Salaam. ‘Dar’ is Tanzania’s main port and is a hub of commerce and industry – a hot, humid and bustling seaport city of high rises, colourful markets and Arab influenced architecture on the coast, accessing one of the most important sea routes in the world. To most travellers, this city is the port of entry to the more exotic island of Zanzibar and other archipelago islands. We set up camp on the beach just outside of the city, take in the balmy Indian Ocean sea breeze, and prepare for our trip to Zanzibar.

Accomodation : Kipepeo Beach Resort – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI: Yes

Optional Activities : No

Evocative and exotic, Zanzibar conjures up images of idyllic, sandy, palm fringed beaches; romantic winding cobbled alleys and lush tropical forests. You will find all these here – and an intriguing history. Zanzibar was the base of the great 19th century explorers such as John Hanning Speke, Richard Burton and David Livingstone and once was a major trading centre of spices. Indeed, the spice trade here is centuries old: Zanzibaris have traded with the people of the Arabian Peninsula for many generations, navigating the ocean in simple dhow sailboats, relying on the annual trade winds for passage. The Arab influence is evident in the architecture and diverse street stall offerings of the capital, Stone Town. This influence can be seen right along the Eastern coast – the Swahili language itself is a result of the mixing of Arab and African languages and cultures over many centuries.

Zanzibar’s other history is not so romantic. The island was also a staging post for slaves bought from the African interior, being held before shipping to slave owners in the Middle East. You can still see the places where these men and woman were held – and even a short visit is enough to convey the appalling conditions they had to endure.

Our time on the island over the next 3 nights is not structured and your time is at leisure. Perhaps the best way to see Stone Town is on foot: explore the bazaars for old maritime trinkets, fabrics and wooden carvings, or visit mosques, palaces, courtyards and alleyways of the old town. Spices are grown in plantations nearby and you can take day tours to visit some and have your senses dazzled by the tastes and scents experienced. If it’s white sand, sparkling ocean and hot sun you prefer – head to the northern beaches and enjoy the Indian Ocean at its best. Try snorkelling and diving, indulge in some sumptuous seafood, or simply relax beneath a coconut palm with a cocktail and a good book.

NB: As we leave the truck on the mainland, basic tourist class accommodation (B&B) is included but for the sake of flexibility other meals are left for your own account. Typically, we spend one night in Stone Town and the next two nights in the north of the island at one of the beaches. Your tour leader will be available to assist if you if you have any questions or need activities arranged.

Please note that some group members may be starting their tour in Dar es Salaam.  Both old and new are invited to join in any group outings.

Accomodation : Stone Town – Mazon’s or similar – twin/ triple rooms with en-suite facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast

WIFI: Yes

Optional Activities : Spice Tour US$35, Slave Markets US$15, Arabic Fort US$5, Palace Museum US$10

Enjoy free time on Zanzibar and transfer to the northern beaches from Stone Town. Relax on the sun kissed beaches of Kendwa, in the northwest part of the island, take an optional diving trip to the rich colourful reefs or grab a snorkel and goggles to explore these from above.

Accomodation : Kendwa Northern beaches – Sunset Bungalows or similar – twin/ triple rooms with en-suite facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast is included with hotel accommodation

WIFI: Yes

Optional Activities : Spice Tour US$35, Scuba Diving local US$150, Yacht Trip US$120, Snorkelling Safaris from US$40, Massages from US$20

Browse markets or enjoy hanging in a hammock with a cocktail and a good book. The beach is a great place to catch up with the locals who will pass by selling their wares, offering henna tattoos and inexpensive massages. Round the day off with a sunset dhow cruise or chilling to the tunes from the nearby beach bars.

Accomodation : Kendwa Northern beaches – Sunset Bungalows or similar – twin/ triple rooms with en-suite facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast is included with hotel accommodation

WIFI: Yes

Optional Activities : See day 11

We have the morning to do any last-minute shopping or enjoy one last swim before catching the ferry back to the African mainland and Dar es Salaam and onwards to our campsite on the coast for the evening.

Please note that some group members may be ending their tour in Dar es Salaam. Both old and new are invited to join in any group outings.

Accomodation : Kipepeo Village – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast, Dinner

WIFI: Yes

Optional Activities : No

Leaving the bustling city and warm coast, we drive inland through the Mikumi National Park where we may, with luck, spot forest elephant or giraffe feeding near the side of the road. Our campsite is located a short stone’s throw from the park and we enjoy sundowners at the local bar/ restaurant followed by the evening around the open fire under the blanket of stars.

If time allows we can go on an optional game drive in the afternoon to explore the magnificent park – Tanzania’s 5th largest. Expect to see Elephant, hippo, crocodiles, antelope and with some luck some buffalo or lion.

Accommodation: Tan-Swiss Lodge – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI: Yes

Optional Activities : Mikumi Game Dive US$150

We continue our journey heading to the town of Iringa and the Kisolanza Farm. At an altitude of 1600m Kisolanza ensures a pleasant fresh climate in one of the most scenic areas in the Southern Highlands of Tanzania. Home to the Ghaui family for over 70 years, Kisolanza remains a working farm providing organic meat (beef, lamb and chicken) and vegetables to the surrounding markets as well as Dar es Salaam. The farm house is a well-known spot to camp and is the overnight near our mid-way point for our journey from the ocean to the Malawi border.

Accomodation : Kisolanza Farm House – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI: Yes

Optional Activities : No

After our last night in Tanzania, we head through lush mountain passes, rich grazing land, and banana and tea plantations to the Songwe border post into Malawi.

Lake Malawi formerly ‘Lake Nyasa’ covers almost a fifth of the country’s area and provides the source of livelihood for many of the Malawi people. Fishermen, fish traders, canoe and net makers all ply their trade, and a common sight is that of a fisherman in his Bwato, (dugout canoe made from hollowed out tree trunk) fishing on the lake at the break of day. The lake also has the highest number of endemic fresh water fish species of any in the world.

NB: Although it is our intention to adhere to the campsites described, a certain amount of flexibility is built into our time in Malawi and the crew may make alterations to the published itinerary. Please therefore treat the Malawi section of the dossier as a guide line only.

Accomodation : Chitimba Beach Camp – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI: Yes

Optional Activities : No

Relax on the beach, take a leisurely village walk or do the full day trip to Manchewe Falls where, after an 11km hike, you can cool off in a natural bath. The surrounding hills are home to the Livingstonia Mission where David Livingstone worked from for a time while staying in Malawi. The views from here are simply magnificent and well worth the effort of hiking to. For those staying at the campsite, there is a local craft market where you can enjoy learning the ins and outs of woodcarving your own souvenir, or learn to play the game of Bao, haggle for some souvenirs or enjoy a relaxing day admiring the shimmering waters from the beach.

Accomodation : Chitimba Beach Camp – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI: Yes

Optional Activities : Livingstonia Day Hike US$10

Today we take a nice scenic drive through rubber plantations to Mzuzu – the capital of the northern region and the third largest town in Malawi – where we stop for a short while to grab supplies and check out the markets, before arriving to Kande Beach. Try some of the optional water sports typically available, horse riding or else simply relax and enjoy the warm fresh waters of Lake Malawi. There is the opportunity to meet the local people, generally known as some of the friendliest in Africa, to gain insight into their way of life.

Accomodation : Kande Beach Camp – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI: Yes

Optional Activities : See day 19

Today you’ll have some free time to try some of the water sports available including diving, snorkelling, and horse riding along the beach.  Or simply relax and enjoy the warm fresh waters of Lake Malawi. There is the opportunity to meet the local people, by tradition very friendly, on an optional guided Village Walk, or you can simply head out and explore the lakeside, craft market and meet some of the locals.

Accomodation : Kande Beach Camp – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI: Yes

Optional Activities : Horse Riding US$55, Village Walk US$10, Snorkelling Day Trip from US$15, Fresh Water Scuba Diving from US$45, Canoe Hire from US$10

Saying our goodbye’s to ‘the Lake’, we head to the border crossing into Zambia to Chipata.  Formally named Fort Jamerson, the border town has a population of approx. 98,000, and is the capital of Zambia’s Eastern Province. The town has colourful fruit and vegetable markets and an unexpected number of ornate mosques due to its large Indian community. If time allows, we will stop in Chipata before arriving to our campsite situated a short distance from the town centre.

Accomodation : Mama Rula’s Camp – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI: Yes

Optional Activities : No

Today we leave early and take the Great Eastern Road through lush country and small villages, cross the Luangwa River to Lusaka, Zambia’s capital. Lusaka is Southern Africa’s fastest growing city with approx. 1.7m inhabitants. It is located on Zambia’s southern plateau at an elevation of 1300m with four main highways running north, south, east and west to different parts of Africa. Our campsite for the evening is set in a tranquil and relaxing setting on a farm.

Accomodation : Eureka Camp – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI: No

Optional Activities : No

We head south to Livingstone and set up camp at the Waterfront campsite on the banks of the Zambezi River, just a few kilometres from the Victoria Falls. At various times of year, the spray from the ‘Falls’ can be seen from up to 20 or 30 kilometres away, hence the local name Mosi oa Tunya – the ‘Smoke that Thunders’. Don’t forget your raincoat to keep you and your camera dry!

The campsite management provides information on all activities available in the area (typically these include rafting, canoeing, bungee, abseiling, gorge swinging, horse riding, scenic flights, river cruises), allowing you to plan your time accordingly over the next four nights.

NB For the sake of practicality, meals in Livingstone are restricted to breakfasts. This allows you to take on half day or full day activities (some of which include lunch) without having to be back with the group at mealtimes. The Waterfront camp restaurant overlooks the Zambezi River and offers a good selection of reasonably priced meals and snacks throughout the day (allow US$15-$30 per meal). Relax and enjoy these few days at your own leisure. Alternatively, take a taxi or free shuttle into Livingstone and try the local fare.

Accomodation : Waterfront – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch

WIFI: Yes

Optional Activities : See day 23

We have a free day in Livingstone today to explore the town, pop over to neighbouring Zimbabwe or enjoy the many optional activities on offer such as rafting, bungee jumping, river cruises, flights over the falls, just to name a few.

Accomodation : Waterfront – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast

WIFI: Yes

Optional Activities : Bungee Jumping US$160, Full Day Abseil US$190, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park Game Walk US$110, Chief Mukumi Village Tour US$50, Gorge Swing US$95, Zambezi Jet boat and Cable Car from US$120, Half Day Canoe US$110, Zambezi Sunset Cruise US$75, Full Day White-water Rafting US$160, Helicopter/Microlight flights from US$185, Half Day Fishing US$145, Bridge Tour US$65.

Our tour ends after breakfast, but we highly recommend staying a few more days in the area in order to explore the Victoria Falls area to the full. Apart from the adventure activities already mentioned check out the markets, volunteer a day in some worthwhile local projects, or simply relax at the beautiful waterfront and watch the Zambezi River flow quickly past on its way to Victoria Falls.

Accomodation : No

Meals Included : Breakfast

WIFI: Yes

Optional Activities : No

Inclusions & Exclusions

The tour price covers the following services:

Accomodation : 18 nights camping in 2-person dome tents, 3 nights tourist class hotel

Meals : 23 Breakfasts, 18 Lunches, 18 Dinners

Transportation : Fully equipped safari vehicle, All road tolls and vehicle taxes, All ground transportation

Highlights : Game Drives with Resident Guide, Zanzibar, Return Ferry & Accommodation, Mosi Oa Tunya NP, Victoria Falls Visit

Activities : Maasai Mara excursion with small vehicle, Maasai Village Walk with Resident Guide, Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater Excursion in purpose built safari vehicles

What is NOT included in the tour price?

  • Adventure Pass activities
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not stated above
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Tips & gestures
  • Airport transfers
  • Optional activities
  • NB Lunch & Dinner in Livingstone

Tour Style

Adventure Camping Tour

Travelling on a camping adventure tour is great fun, but it can also be challenging! This is a participation tour and your help will be needed in setting up the camp each night and assisting (usually on a rota basis) with the various day to day campsite duties, such as shopping, cooking and keeping the vehicle and camp tidy. But don’t worry it’s not all hard work and it’s a great way to meet the local people and get to know your fellow travellers. Your contribution benefits the success of the tour – most people find the greater their involvement, the greater their enjoyment of the whole trip. Our accommodated tour option travels together with the camping counterpart.

Africa is an adventure destination and travelling here is not always predictable so be prepared to ‘expect the unexpected in difficulties or delays which might come our way! However, you’ll soon find that the diversity of the African landscape, the wildlife, and the communities we pass on our way, make the sometimes-rough travel and long driving days worthwhile. Come with a sense of adventure and a flexible attitude and you will be sure to enjoy your African adventure across this amazing continent.

Africa provides an ever-changing environment, power failures, water, and fuel shortages, temperature fluctuations, and other uncontrollable/unplanned situations do occur. You will need to remain flexible understanding and good-humored. “African time” can be difficult and frustrating for those who are used to a very structured life, so this is something to keep in mind!

What’s Included:

All tour highlights, 2-person dome tents, fully equipped safari vehicles, camping and cooking equipment, mattresses, service of two crew, all road and vehicle taxes, all ground transportation, and meals as indicated.

What’s Not Included:

Adventure Pass activities, visas, travel insurance, flight departure taxes, airport transfers, optional activities, tips, drinks, sleeping bag, and items of personal nature. NB Lunches and dinners in Livingstone and in Zanzibar are not included.

Accommodation

We use 2-person dome tents with fly sheets, sewn-in ground sheets, zip-up insect screens, and foam mattresses. We mainly use campsites, which usually have reasonable wash and shower facilities, electricity points and sometimes even a small shop, bar or swimming pool.

PRE/POST TOUR ACCOMMODATION

This tour departs Nairobi early on Day 1; we strongly recommend therefore that you plan to arrive the day before departure to overcome any jet-lag and to acclimatise to Africa. We would be happy to book pre-tour accommodation for you – please call or email us with your arrival details and accommodation requirements. However please book early to avoid disappointment and the risk of having to find more expensive (or less convenient) lodgings.

If time allows, we also suggest planning a night or two extra (after your tour) to make the most of this part of Africa. Accommodation is usually available locally on arrival, but you can pre-book this with Travel Talk Tours. There is a variety of activities and excursions in Livingstone that can be arranged locally.

See below for a guide to extra accommodation costs. These prices are a guideline only and are subject to change so please check with Travel Talk for current prices.

Transport

24-seater, self-contained, custom-built vehicle with on-board tables, plug sockets, freezer, water tank, library, safety features and 70-litre individual lockers, mokoro (dugout canoe), river boat, 4×4 safari, vehicle and fast ferry. Vehicle changes may occur on this route. Travel times indicated are approximate, and do not include stops en-route.

Game Park Visits

To maximise the quality of game driving and to comply with local authority rulings, some of our National Park visits and game viewing is carried out using services provided by local African ground handlers. As well as enhancing our experience using local guides and smaller vehicles it also allows us to contribute at a ‘grassroots’ level to local economies from which local people benefit.

Travel Advice, Visas & Insurance

The table below indicates the visas required for travel to the countries on this tour but should be treated as a guide only. At least one month prior to travel seek confirmation from embassies or a visa specialist, that these requirements are still current. For UK citizens the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) offers free up-to-date travel info: www.fco.gov.uk.

This information is provided as a guidance, we strongly advise that you check with the consulate or embassy as this information can change. Please note, visa costs can change at any time and with little notice depending on the political climate of the region. It is your responsibility to make sure that all the required travel documents are ready when travelling.

Kenya E-VISA: Should you wish to have your visa before arrival, Kenya now offers the option to pre-apply for an e-visas online. This may take up to 7 days to process. Alternatively, qualifying passport holders can obtain an entry visa on arrival in Kenya. To check whether you qualify, please check with the Kenyan Embassy or Mission in your country of origin.

Travel Advice

We are closely monitoring the latest travel updates to Africa and follow the advice of the UK Foreign Office (FCDO). For the latest travel advice from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/

We recommend all travellers to check their Government National Travel Advisory prior to their departure:

Australia – https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/

Canada – https://travel.gc.ca/

New Zealand – https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/

USA – https://travel.state.gov/

Travel Insurance

All passengers travelling with Travel Talk are required to have personal travel insurance before participating in any of our tours. Your guide will collect your travel insurance details on the first day of your trip. It is your responsibility to make sure you have an adequate and suitable travel insurance for you in place, you may read more at https://www.traveltalktours.com/travel-insurance

Health & Safety

The health and safety of our passengers, staff and communities visited is of utmost priority. As we monitor and comply with the official advice from the UK Foreign Office, as well as World Health Organization and government authorities regularly, we have implemented several policies and precautions on our tours for your wellbeing. You may find our Safe Travels Protocols at https://www.traveltalktours.com/safe-travels

Travel Talk Adventures has received the Safe Travels stamp by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), which allows travellers to recognise companies around the world that have adopted health and hygiene global standardised protocols – so consumers canexperience ‘Safe Travels’.

Please make sure to regularly check your Government’s travel advice before travelling and be well-informed of any requirements. Your tour guide will also notify you of the regulations and protocols to follow throughout your trip with us.

Please note that if any traveller is unable to complete the itinerary or possess a potential risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to remove them from all or part of a trip.

Please consult with your doctor for the latest medical travel information and any vaccinations you may need. We recommend that you bring any personal medical requirements and medications with you as these may be difficult to obtain while on tour.

VACCINATIONS

The table below indicates the vaccinations suggested for travel on this tour but should be treated as a guide only. You should seek professional medical advice from your GP or clinic at least six weeks prior to departure. Please note some areas visited are malarial. We recommend you speak to your doctor or travel clinic about appropriate anti-malarial tablets.

C = Compulsory, R = Recommended, * = If travelling from infected countries a certificate of proof may be required. NB: To be used as a guide only.

Please see your GP or travel clinic for up-to-date medical advice. Alternatively, contact TravelTalk for any queries or advice regarding vaccination requirements.

Weather

The best time to visit Africa is from September to December, when the dry and warm weather across the continent offers the ideal conditions for safari trips in the southwest, sightseeing in the Cape region, and adventures in East Africa. 

It is also the best time for game viewing in the wilderness areas stretching from west to east. Southern Africa’s majestic animal migrations take place during these months, creating fascinating views of wildlife for the best photographic experience. 

Your chances of witnessing animal births are high, especially in Southern Africa’s national parks. Trips to Africa from September to December have a lot to offer if you wish to witness the incredible wildlife diversity and the intriguing local life.

Check out our weather guide for the best time to visit Africa.

Money Matters

PERSONAL EXPENSES

Naturally you will require extra money for your own personal spending on the tour, for Activities and Excursions, snacks, drinks, souvenirs, tips and items of a personal nature. Everybody has different spending habits but as a guideline we suggest you budget US$15-30 per day. Also keep US$ cash for relevant airport taxes and visas needed, optional activities and any additional accommodation before or after your tour.

Spending money is best carried as cash in either US dollars(US Dollars in clean, un-torn, post 2008 edition notes), South African Rand, Sterling or Euro which can be exchanged on arrival and as you travel. Your guide will give general guidance
about spending during the tour.

Currencies are as follows: Kenya – Kenya Schilling; Tanzania – Tanzania Schilling; Malawi – Malawi Kwacha; Zambia – Zambian Kwacha

ATM machines are found in Nairobi, Arusha, Dar es Salaam, and Zanzibar and in Southern Africa. Please note they are sometimes unreliable (and therefore should not be relied upon)

Credit cards can be used to pay for optional activities although charges may be may be high by western standards (+/- 5%).

TIPPING

As in many areas where tourism is an important contributor to the economy it has become customary to offer a small gratuity to local staff at the end of the tour if service has been of a high standard. Naturally, this always remains at your discretion.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES AND EXCURSIONS

To give you maximum flexibility on the tour we offer a number of optional activities on the tour. To help budget, approximate prices are listed below in US$ unless otherwise stated. All prices are subject to change and availability.

travel to Africa

Essentials to Bring & Internet

-Face mask/cover and hand sanitiser enough for your personal use throughout the trip – See more at https://www.traveltalktours.com/safe-travels/

-Travel Documents: Passport, Visa (if required), flight or transport ticket (and photocopies)

-Travel Talk Tour Voucher (printed or digital)Travel Insurance Policy (and photocopy)

-Personal medical kit and medicine

-Money (cash, credit card, travellers’ cheques)

-Power Adapter

-Reusable water bottle

-Ear plugs and eye mask

-Sun protection – hat, sunglasses, sunscreen

-Comfortable, closed walking shoes

-Wind/water proof jacket

-Warm clothes, hat, and gloves for cold weather

-Sandals, swimwear, shorts for warm weather

Solo Travellers

We have many solo travellers joining our tours. Solo travellers will be roomed with another traveller of the same gender. If you would like a private solo room, please contact us. You may see out solo travels page for more details.

Rules to Follow

We are committed to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. We do not tolerate any form of violence (physical or verbal), bullying or harassment involving customers, partners, Travel Talk staff or locals. Sexual relationships between a tour leader and a passenger are forbidden.

We will not tolerate any illegal activity, including but not limited to: use and possession of illegal drugs, trespassing, and disrupting public order. If you consume alcohol, please ensure that you drink responsibly and follow the local laws and regulations.

You must follow the advice of your tour leader and local officials regarding health and safety measures. We operate all tours under Safe Travels protocols for the wellbeing of our passengers, staff and communities visited. Please ensure that you have read the https://www.traveltalktours.com/safe-travels/ and are fully prepared for your trip.

If someone is acting inappropriately regarding these matters, please notify your tour leader immediately or contact us on the emergency contact number provided below.

Your tour leader has the right to remove from the group anyone not abiding by these rules, with no right of compensation or refund. See more at https://www.traveltalktours.com/booking-terms/

Please remember that our travellers come from different parts of the world and will have various needs and preferences. Be understanding and patient with your fellow travellers, and always strive to be on time.

Responsible Travel

We strongly believe that you get the most out of a journey by respecting the culture and people of the places you visit. On our tours, we try to travel in a way that benefits the communities we pass through and minimizes the negative impact on the environment. This can be from ensuring the campsites and accommodation we use are clean when we leave and dressing respectfully in conservative areas to getting involved with local charity projects. We ask that you are open to this when you travel with us. Being proactive in responsible travel helps develop cross-cultural understanding and friendships with the local people and will greatly enhance your experience in Africa.

Read more at https://www.traveltalktours.com/responsible-travel/

Get Connected

WIFI on tour:

While WIFI is becoming more common in some areas of Africa we cannot guarantee the speed, cost or reliability during your tour.

Open until midnight

+44 20 809 995 96
[email protected]

Monday - Friday: 09:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
W. Europe