East Africa Explorer (Accommodated) - 24 days

East Africa Explorer (Accommodated) - 24 days

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$5965

$5369

East Africa Explorer (Accommodated) - 24 days

24 Days Starting in Nairobi, Kenya and ending in Livingstone, Zambia

Visiting: Masai Mara, Nairobi, Arusha, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Bagamoyo, Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, Mikumi National Park, Iringa, Lake Malawi, Chipata, Lusaka, Livingstone

Tour operator:

On The Go Tours

Specialist Group:

Singles Solo

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 16

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

18-75

Trip Styles:

Camping, Safari Tours

Activities:

Walking

From: $5965 $5369 Operator discount: -$597

NB: Prices correct on 05-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on a 24-day East Africa Explorer tour, traversing the breathtaking landscapes of Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, and Zambia. This adventure begins in Nairobi, taking you through the iconic Masai Mara and Serengeti National Parks, where you'll seek out the Big Five and camp under the stars. Experience the awe-inspiring Ngorongoro Crater and the vibrant cultures of Bagamoyo and Dar es Salaam. Relax on the pristine beaches of Zanzibar, explore the wildlife-rich Mikumi National Park, and unwind by the shores of Lake Malawi. Conclude your journey in Livingstone, Zambia, with a visit to the majestic Victoria Falls. This small group safari tour offers a blend of wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, and stunning natural beauty, all while staying in comfortable accommodations ranging from permanent tents to charming chalets.

Highlights

  • Masai Mara - Discover the incredible wildlife of Kenya's most famous reserve, part of the legendary Serengeti ecosystem.

  • Serengeti National Park - Go in search of the Big Five in one of the world's most famous national parks and camp out in the wilderness.

  • Ngorongoro Crater - Drive around the rim of this UNESCO-listed volcanic caldera and search for wildlife in the crater itself.

  • Bagamoyo - Pass Mount Kilimanjaro en route to this historic trading town on the Indian Ocean coast.

  • Zanzibar - Enjoy three nights on this tropical island with time to explore historic Stone Town and relax on pristine white sand beaches.

  • Mikumi National Park - Drive through the national park, one of the largest in Tanzania, and go in search of wildlife on an optional game drive.

  • Lake Malawi - Explore two different sections of this giant freshwater lake, visiting local villages and opt for a hike into the countryside.

  • Livingstone - End your journey on the Zambian side of Victoria Falls, with an included visit and free time to discover this iconic natural wonder.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Nairobi

Location: Masai Mara

Accommodation Name: Enchoro Wildlife Camp

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

Nairobi - Masai Mara. We leave Nairobi early this morning and make our way to the famous Masai Mara National Reserve. The Mara is adjacent to the Serengeti, forming one of the world's last surviving great wildernesses. We will be travelling in specialised safari vehicles for this part of the tour for a more intimate wildlife-viewing experience, and will join up with our main vehicle later. In the Masai Mara, we will be staying in twin-share pre-erected tents with ensuite facilities.





During our time in the Mara, we enjoy morning and afternoon game drives in search of the huge herds of wildebeest, zebra, and antelope which inhabit the plains and the predators that hunt them. Also keep your eyes peeled for other iconic species like rhino, elephant and giraffe. We camp on the edge of the reserve, close to the action!





Please note: The pre-departure meeting is held at 18:00 on the evening prior to departure. The tour departs at 08:00 on Day 1 so please arrive in Nairobi the day before your tour. Refer to the Joining Instructions in the Trip Notes for more information. We can book accommodation and transfers on request.

Day 2: Masai Mara

Location: Masai Mara

Accommodation Name: Enchoro Wildlife Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we continue exploring the Masai Mara with morning and afternoon game drives to different areas of the park. As well as the iconic Big Five, we will hopefully spot some of the less glamorous species, but creatures that are important to the ecosystem. Hyenas and vultures scavenge the remains of prey, warthogs scurry through the undergrowth and endangered African wild dogs hunt intelligently in packs. We break in the middle of the day for lunch before game driving back to our camp for the evening.

Day 3: Nairobi

Location: Nairobi

Accommodation Name: Wildebeest Eco Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Masai Mara - Nairobi. Leaving the Mara, we travel back through the Great Rift Valley to Nairobi, where we spend the night.

Day 4: Arusha

Location: Arusha

Accommodation Name: Meserani Snake Park

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Nairobi - Arusha (Tanzania). We leave Kenya, crossing into neighbouring Tanzania at the Namanga frontier. We then drive to the country's safari capital, Arusha, arriving late afternoon. Situated in the shadow of Mount Meru and close to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, it is a great base for exploring the region. If time allows, we stop to browse the local markets and join a walk around a traditional Masai village before heading to our accommodation at the Meserani Snake Park.

Day 5: Serengeti National Park

Location: Serengeti National Park

Accommodation Name: Simba Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Arusha - Serengeti National Park. We leave our overland truck behind and transfer to designated safari vehicles this morning. Crossing the Great Rift Valley, we enter the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. We then drive around the rim of this spectacular UNESCO-listed crater and onto the wildlife-rich plains of the Serengeti. Serengeti derives from the Maasai word siringitu, which means "the place where the land moves on forever" and the scale of this wilderness is sure to impress as much as the wildlife you will inevitably see.





The Serengeti and neighbouring Masai Mara in Kenya play host to the annual migration of millions of wildebeest, zebra and antelope. These prey animals follow the rains and the freshest grass, stalked every step of the way by the lions, leopards, cheetahs and hyenas which feed on them. You are sure to have some amazing wildlife experiences today as we enjoy a game drive en route to our camp. We spend tonight at an unfenced campsite, where we can listen to the sounds of the bush and hopefully see some wildlife from our camp!

Day 6-7: Ngorongoro Crater

Location: Ngorongoro Crater

Accommodation Name: Simba Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Serengeti National Park - Ngorongoro Crater - Arusha. Game driving out of the Serengeti on day 3, we can search for any species we have not managed to spot so far. We travel back to the Ngorongoro Crater, camping on the rim of this UNESCO-listed natural caldera, one of Africa's most spectacular wildlife areas.





On day 4 we get our chance to head into the crater itself, following the steep, winding road into the reserve. On our game drive, you will have the chance to spot every major African animal, except for giraffes who can't manage the steep climb down the crater rim!





Returning to camp for lunch, we pack up before making the journey back to Arusha and our overland safari vehicle.

Day 8: Bagamoyo

Location: Bagamoyo

Accommodation Name: Firefly Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Arusha - Bagamoyo. We begin our journey to Zanzibar today, heading towards the Indian Ocean coast. It's a long but scenic drive, and we pass Mount Kilimanjaro en route. If the weather is clear we should be able to enjoy magnificent views of the iconic snow-capped peak.





Our stop for tonight is the port town of Bagamoyo. It was founded towards the end of the 18th century and was an important trading port along the East African coast. Today it is a centre for dhow building, with many of the boats being sent to Zanzibar and nearby areas. We camp on the outskirts of the town, near the palm-fringed beaches of the Indian Ocean.

Day 9: Dar Es Salaam

Location: Dar es Salaam

Accommodation Name: Kipepeo Beach Village

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Bagamoyo - Dar es Salaam. Saying farewell to Bagamoyo we make the 2 - 3 hour drive along the coast to Dar es Salaam. This vibrant city is Tanzania's main port and a kaleidoscope of culture. Impressive Arab architecture and colourful markets give way to blissful beaches and turquoise ocean. We stay by the beach tonight before our excursion to Zanzibar.

Day 10-12: Zanzibar

Location: Zanzibar

Accommodation Name: All Seasons Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Dar es Salaam - Zanzibar. On the morning of day 7, we take the ferry to Zanzibar, leaving our overland truck on the mainland. Evocative and exotic, Zanzibar conjures up images of idyllic, sandy, palm-fringed beaches, romantic winding cobbled alleys, and lush tropical forests.





Our time on Zanzibar is not too structured. There is plenty of free time to explore the old part of Zanzibar City - Stone Town. You'll also want to visit a spice plantation, spend some time on the tropical beaches and enjoy snorkelling at the coast, home to a wealth of marine life. Other optional excursions you can book include massages and yacht trips. Please see the Trip Notes for more details.





In Zanzibar we typically spend day 7 in Stone Town and days 8 and 9 at one of the northern beaches, but this can be flexible.

Day 13: Dar Es Salaam

Location: Dar es Salaam

Accommodation Name: Kipepeo Beach Village

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Zanzibar - Dar es Salaam. We have the morning to do any last-minute shopping or enjoy one last swim before catching the ferry back to Dar es Salaam and travelling on to our accommodation by the coast for the evening.



Day 14: Mikumi

Location: Mikumi National Park

Accommodation Name: Tan-Swiss Lodge

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Dar es Salaam - Mikumi National Park. Making our way southwest, we head back inland and towards the border with Malawi. We'll be driving through Mikumi National Park for a large chunk of the day, and will hopefully see some of the wildlife that lives in Tanzania's fifth-largest game reserve.





Our accommodation for the night is right on the edge of the park and there is an optional additional game drive if you'd like to search further for elephants, giraffes, or the other species that call Mikumi home. Alternatively, you can relax in the local bar and restaurant, or enjoy an evening around the campfire.

Day 15: Iringa

Location: Iringa

Accommodation Name: Kisolanza Farm

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Mikumi National Park - Iringa. Continuing our journey south, we pass through Baobab Valley, home to many of these ancient, swollen baobab trees. Reaching the town of Iringa, we end our journey at the Kisolanza Farm. This family-run business supplies Dar es Salaam with organic meat and vegetables and is a well-known stopover, located in the scenic Southern Highlands of Tanzania.

Day 16-17: Lake Malawi

Location: Lake Malawi

Accommodation Name: Chitimba Beach Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Iringa - Chitimba Beach, Lake Malawi (Malawi). We wave farewell to Tanzania on day 16, crossing into neighbouring Malawi. We head straight to shimmering Lake Malawi, which covers around a fifth of the country and is the main source of income for a huge swathe of the country's population. Fishermen paddle their traditional Bwato canoes on the lake, which has a huge number of fish species found nowhere else in the world, making it a popular spot for scuba divers.





Arriving at our accommodation by Chitimba Beach, the rest of today and tomorrow are at leisure. Relax by the beach, play volleyball or browse the local craft markets.



On day 17 there is an optional hike to Manchewe Falls. This 11km hike requires decent fitness, but the rewards are spectacular views of the waterfall and a dip in a natural bath. David Livingstone lived and worked in this area during his time in Malawi.

Day 18-19: Lake Malawi

Location: Lake Malawi

Accommodation Name: Kande Beach

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Chitimba Beach, Lake Malawi - Mzuzu - Kande Beach, Lake Malawi. Day 18 sees us driving through rubber plantations to the small town of Mzuzu, where we visit the local market and resupply the truck. Then it's onwards to Kande beach, another part of Lake Malawi around 240km down the shoreline.





The rest of today and day 19 are free to relax or join some of the optional activities on offer. You can go diving, canoeing, or snorkelling in the lake, or opt for a horse ride along the beach. You can also join a guided walk to a nearby village to meet the Malawian locals.

Day 20: Chipata

Location: Chipata

Accommodation Name: Mama Rula's

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Kande Beach, Lake Malawi - Chipata (Zambia). Travelling via the Malawian capital of Lilongwe, we make the border crossing into Zambia. We arrive at the town of Chipata, formerly known as Fort Jamerson. We should have time to wander around the town, home to a large Indian community and a number of ornate mosques. Then we continue to our accommodation on the outskirts of town.

Day 21: Lusaka

Location: Lusaka

Accommodation Name: Eureka Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Chipata - Lusaka. Today we have a long drive through the picturesque scenery of Zambia. We'll travel along the Great Eastern Road and cross the Luangwa River before reaching the capital, Lusaka. This is southern Africa's fastest-growing city, but we'll enjoy a slice of tranquility at our accommodation on a rural farm.

Day 22-23: Livingstone

Location: Livingstone

Accommodation Name: The Victoria Falls Waterfront

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Lusaka - Livingstone. On day 22 we drive to Livingstone, our final destination, and home to Victoria Falls. There is an included visit to see the Zambian side of this famous cascade and the following day is free to relax or enjoy some of the numerous optional activities available. Activities range from a further visit to see the cascades (prepare to get wet!), canoeing and rafting on the Zambezi River, bungee jumping and fishing to a scenic flight over the falls, or an abseiling experience - the choice is yours!

Day 24: Livingstone

Location: Livingstone

Accommodation Name: The Victoria Falls Waterfront

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today our tour comes to an end after breakfast today. If you'd like to stay a while longer in Livingstone then speak to our team about booking post-tour accommodation.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Simple Accommodation & 5 nights camping

  • 23 breakfasts, 18 lunches & 18 dinners

    Enjoy 23 breakfasts, 18 lunches, and 18 dinners during the tour.

  • 18 nights simple twin share accommodation, 3 nights permanent tented camps and 2 nights camping in 2-person dome tents

    Stay in 18 nights of simple twin share accommodation, 3 nights in permanent tented camps, and 2 nights camping in 2-person dome tents.

  • Escorted by a licensed 2-person crew

    The tour is escorted by a licensed 2-person crew.

  • Transportation in a 24-seater overland truck with camping and cooking equipment

    Travel in a 24-seater overland truck equipped with camping and cooking equipment.

  • Masai Mara excursion in a purpose built safari vehicle and game drives with a resident guide

    Experience a Masai Mara excursion in a purpose-built safari vehicle with game drives led by a resident guide.

  • Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater Excursion in a purpose built safari vehicle and game drives with a resident guide

    Enjoy excursions to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater in a purpose-built safari vehicle with game drives led by a resident guide.

  • Maasai Village Walk with a resident guide

    Participate in a Maasai Village Walk with a resident guide.

  • Zanzibar return ferry ticket

    A return ferry ticket to Zanzibar is included.

  • Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Victoria Falls visit

    Visit Mosi Oa Tunya National Park and Victoria Falls.

  • Mattresses, sleeping bag and pillow provided for the nights camping

    Mattresses, sleeping bags, and pillows are provided for the nights spent camping.

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What's Not Included

  • Local Payment

    A higher local payment is required for bookings made prior to 15 Dec 2023: USD $1495 pp (Jan - May) / USD $1770 pp (Jun - Dec).

  • International flights and visas

    International flights and visas are not included.

  • Airport transfers

    Airport transfers are not included but can be booked on request.

  • Tipping

    Tipping is not included and is an entirely personal gesture.

  • Optional activities

    Optional activities are not included and prices are listed in the Trip Notes.

  • Local payment

    A local payment of $850 per person is required, to be paid in USD.

Accommodation

Experience a variety of accommodations from permanent tents with ensuite facilities at Enchoro Wildlife Camp in Masai Mara to simple chalets at Meserani Snake Park and Kisolanza Farm. Enjoy beachfront chalets at Kipepeo Beach Village and Amaan Bungalows in Zanzibar, offering stunning views and relaxation opportunities.

Age Policy

18 and over. Anyone over 65 to complete a Tour Suitability Form.Maximum age 75. 

Mode of Transport

Travel in a 24-seater overland truck equipped with camping and cooking gear, with specialized safari vehicles for excursions in Masai Mara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater. Enjoy a ferry ride to Zanzibar and return, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of East Africa's diverse landscapes.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides a mix of accommodations including simple twin share accommodation, permanent tented camps, and camping in 2-person dome tents. Specific accommodations include Enchoro Wildlife Camp, Wildebeest Eco Camp, Meserani Snake Park, Simba Camp, Firefly Camp, Kipepeo Beach Village, All Seasons Hotel, Amaan Bungalows, Tan-Swiss Lodge, Kisolanza Farm, Chitimba Beach Camp, Kande Beach, Mama Rula's, Eureka Camp, and The Victoria Falls Waterfront.

  • What meals are included in the tour package?

    The tour includes 23 breakfasts, 18 lunches, and 18 dinners. Meals are provided at various accommodations throughout the tour.

  • Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

    Yes, there are several optional activities available during the tour. These include game drives in Mikumi National Park, snorkelling and diving in Lake Malawi, visiting a spice plantation in Zanzibar, and various activities at Victoria Falls such as canoeing, rafting, bungee jumping, and scenic flights.

  • What wildlife can I expect to see during the tour?

    During the tour, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife including the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo) in the Masai Mara and Serengeti National Park. Other wildlife includes wildebeest, zebra, antelope, hyenas, vultures, warthogs, African wild dogs, and various species in the Ngorongoro Crater and Mikumi National Park.

  • Is there a guide provided during the tour?

    Yes, the tour is escorted by a licensed 2-person crew, and there are resident guides for specific excursions such as the Masai Mara and Serengeti National Park game drives, as well as the Maasai Village Walk.

  • What is the age policy for this tour?

    The age policy for this tour is 18 and over. Anyone over 65 is required to complete a Tour Suitability Form, and the maximum age is 75.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1998

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews from travellers on this tour

Emilly Flynn  

East Africa Explorer (Accommodated) - 24 days

20-Sep-2024

The trip itself was very well organised. The guide and driver were absolutely brilliant. Our truck Kavango wasn’t quite as good as a couple of the other Acacia trucks we crossed paths with. The seats not as comfortable and didn’t recline at all. I’m guessing it was an older truck but given the long days we had, reclining seats would be great. The itinerary needs updating. Some of the days it says 4 hours travel and it would be 8 hours with no hold ups. It is hard to rate the accommodation as it varied to widely from the fabulous Tan Swiss Lodge and the Waterfront to the worst accommodation which hands down was Snake Park which really let your brand down, particularly as there are so many other options in that area. Snake Park is an health hazard. Everything in between was acceptable even if basic given the location like Chitimba. In general I would book with again and would recommend to like minded people.

Emilly Flynn  

East Africa Explorer (Accommodated) - 24 days

28-Sep-2024

The trip itself was very well organised. The guide and driver were absolutely brilliant. Our truck Kavango wasn’t quite as good as a couple of the other trucks we crossed paths with. The seats not as comfortable and didn’t recline at all. I’m guessing it was an older truck but given the long days we had, reclining seats would be great. The itinerary needs updating. Some of the days it says 4 hours travel and it would be 8 hours with no hold ups. It is hard to rate the accommodation as it varied to widely from the fabulous Tan Swiss Lodge and the Waterfront to the worst accommodation which hands down was Snake Park which really let your brand down, particularly as there are so many other options in that area. Snake Park is an health hazard. Everything in between was acceptable even if basic given the location like Chitimba. In general I would book again and would recommend to like minded people.

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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