Nairobi To Victoria Falls (34 Days) Savanna Dawn
Nairobi To Victoria Falls (34 Days) Savanna Dawn
34 Days Starting in Nairobi, Kenya and ending in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Visiting: Kenya
Tour operator:
Tour code:
451
Specialist Group:
Singles Solo
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 10
Age range:
18-80
Special diets catered:
Please advise requests
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Adventure Tours, Camping, Safari Tours, Walking Hiking and Trekking
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 34-day adventure from Nairobi to Victoria Falls with the "Savanna Dawn" tour, traversing Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe. Experience the thrill of a 4x4 safari in the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park, and explore the vibrant Zanzibar Island with its stunning beaches and aromatic spice markets. Witness the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, drive through Mikumi National Park, and immerse yourself in the local culture at Lake Malawi. Discover the scenic Eastern Highlands and the historic Great Zimbabwe Ruins, culminating in the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, where adrenaline activities await. This tour offers a blend of camping and simple hostel accommodations, with the Oasis truck as your mobile base, ensuring a comfortable and immersive journey through the heart of Africa.
Highlights
Itinerary
Welcome to Nairobi, today you can get up close to Africa's tallest mammal when we visit the Langata Giraffe Centre in Nairobi. You will also have free time to visit the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, where Oasis sponsor Kamboyo, an orphaned elephant.
DAY 2-5: NAIROBI TO ARUSHA
We depart Nairobi early morning and immediately find ourselves in hot savannah grasslands with acacia trees providing the only shade. Various game, usually zebra and giraffe can be seen as we head south and cross into Tanzania - where we camp on the outskirts of Arusha town.
Here you have the option to use a local African safari travel company to guide us through the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park. You'll head down into the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater. On the crater floor you will have the opportunity to view the abundant wildlife including Elephant, Lion, Cheetah, White Rhino, Buffalo, Hippo, Antelope, Crocodile and Pink Flamingos. From here you go into the Serengeti for a day where vast herds of wildebeest roam the plains. For those who wish - there is an option to visit a local Maasai Village and learn about their culture and way of life.
DAY 6-13: ARUSHA TO DAR SALAAM
After leaving Arusha we pass several small towns and villages along the way and, if we are lucky, we may see the towering peak of Kilimanjaro. We will stop off at Marangu where you have the opportunity to climb to Kilimanjaro base camp or take a walk through the lush surroundings passing through coffee plantations, rivers, waterfalls, caves and visiting a local blacksmith. A day’s drive brings us to Dar Es Salaam where our truck is based for around 4 nights in a campsite on a beautiful Indian Ocean beach. From here we take the ferry out to Zanzibar for four full days, and venture into the narrow bustling streets of Stone Town and its famous spice markets, old slave forts and dungeons. There is also time to relax on Zanzibar's famous white beaches, scuba dive or snorkel and swim with dolphins.
DAY 14-19: DAR ES SALAAM TO LAKE MALAWI
After meeting the Zanzibar ferry, we begin the journey through the interesting and mountainous hinterland of Tanzania. In the afternoon, after negotiating some appalling roads, we pass through the peaceful Mikumi National Park. African safari travel is synonymous with wildlife, and in this national park we usually see Elephant, Giraffe, Zebra and Antelope from the roadside. Passing through lush mountainous landscape and plantations - we enter Malawi which is dominated by its huge freshwater lake.
Camping in Malawi sums up the spirit of an Africa overland trip with Oasis. We spend 4 to 5 days at friendly laid-back campsites where most people choose to relax on the sandy beaches or try their hand at scuba diving, snorkelling, or windsurfing as we follow the lakeshore south. If you are more inclined to just relax - then there is no better place than on the shores of Lake Malawi. This really is a warm friendly country - making it easy to wander off and meet up with your local hosts in one of the many villages or schools nearby. You can view firsthand the talent of the local artisans and purchase some exquisite pieces of furniture and carvings out of ebony and mahogany.
DAY 20-22: LAKE MALAWI TO HARARE
From here we continue to the capital Lilongwe in the south of the country where you can check out the local markets.
Our African Overland trip leaves Lilongwe to cross into Mozambique and head for Zimbabwe. We follow the infamous Tete Corridor which was well known in the days of Mozambique's long running civil war as the Gun Run. Thankfully these days things are a lot different! We enter Zimbabwe and travel via the capital, Harare. Arriving at Zimbabwe's cosmopolitan city, you can enjoy many of the sights in and around the city centre, there are many markets throughout the city from craft markets to the hectic local Mbare market, stroll through the botanical gardens, or enjoy the nightlife in one of the many bars throughout the city.
DAY 23-27: HARARE TO GREAT ZIMBABWE
Leaving Harare we make our way to the Eastern Highlands of Zimbabwe, where we visit Chimanimani, and where you can take a hike through the mountain wilderness area, or hiking to the nearby bridal veil falls, or simply enjoying the stunning surroundings from this sleepy village whilst strolling through the village market. Great Zimbabwe Ruins which were once the greatest medieval city in Sub Saharan Africa and where the name Zimbabwe is derived, literally meaning house of stone is where we stop next to view this ancient city.
DAY 28-30: GREAT ZIMBABWE TO BULAWAYO
We drive across Mashonaland to Gweru, here we visit a privately run horse and game ranch where you can go game viewing on horseback. It’s our destination for the next few days. Next, we enter Matabeleland and the town of Bulawayo.
DAY 31-32: BULAWAYO TO VICTORIA FALLS
You have the option of leaving the truck for a day to venture into Matobo National Park with a local safari company. You will have a unique chance to get out on foot to try and spot the elusive Black Rhino - amongst hordes of other game. There is also the opportunity to visit Cecil Rhodes' grave and Ancient Rock Paintings. We will then follow a journey that is steeped in history and say goodbye to our truck for the night as we board the overnight train from Bulawayo to the mighty Victoria Falls. Expect basic conditions, but the views and experience of looking out the window and watching the world go by more than makes up for it. If you look carefully, you might even spot some kudu or elephant! When you get there the mighty Victoria Falls await.
DAY 33-34: VICTORIA FALLS
For some, Mosi oa Tunya - The Smoke That Thunders, is the highlight of their African safari. From the main road, in the bush 20kms away, a cloud of mist and spray can be seen against the blue sky. As you get closer, a low rumble like thunder can be heard. When you arrive, it is a surprise to discover the enormity of Victoria Falls. One mile wide and hurling over 5 million cubic metres of water a minute into the Zambezi Gorge this sight is breathtaking at any time of year. The Gorge is the setting for one of the most adrenaline fuelled grade 5 white water rafting in the world. There is something here for everyone. Why not take a day trip over the Victoria Falls bridge to view the falls from Zambia, take the Flight of Angels - a great way to get a bird’s eye view of the falls in a microlight or helicopter, enjoy a civilised afternoon tea at the Victoria Falls Hotel, join a Sunset Boat Cruise or a more sedate Canoe trip. For those who want to make the most of the adrenaline activities, get your fix with the Gorge Swing, Abseil, or 'enjoy' one of the highest commercial Bungee Jumps in the world.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation includes approximately 90% camping and 10% simple hostels/hotels.
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Giraffe Centre
Visit to the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi.
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Return Ferry to Zanzibar
Return ferry tickets to Zanzibar are included.
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Zanzibar Accommodation
4 nights accommodation on Zanzibar.
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Lake Malawi Village Walk
A guided walk through a village on Lake Malawi.
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Private Game Ranch
Visit to a privately run game ranch.
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Overnight Sleeper Train
Overnight sleeper train from Bulawayo to Victoria Falls (if available).
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Meals
Approximately 60% of meals are included.
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Transport
All transport on the Oasis Expedition Truck.
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Camping and Cooking Equipment
Camping and cooking equipment are provided.
What's Not Included
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Visas
Visas are not included.
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Local Payment
Local payment of USD 760 (2023-24) payable at the start of the trip.
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Serengeti Excursion
Serengeti Excursion is bookable as an add-on and not included.
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Optional Excursions
Optional excursions as listed in the Pre-Departure Information are not included.
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Flights
Flights are not included.
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Airport Taxes and Transfers
Airport taxes and transfers are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included.
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Meals
Approximately 40% of meals are not included.
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Drinks
Drinks are not included.
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Tips
Tips are not included.
More Info
This tour takes you on an adventure through the Serengeti, where you have the opportunity to get close to the incredible wildlife that lives there (Lions, giraffes, elephants, the list goes on). Then visit the awe inspiring Ngorongoro Crater National park - home to the world's largest inactive volcanic caldera. For those of you who dream of sea, sun, and sand, it does not get much better than chilling out on the white sandy beaches of Zanzibar and Lake Malawi. Once we reach Victoria Falls, why not try rafting the mighty Zambezi River or a Gorge Swing over it?
Mode of Transport
The Oasis truck will be your new home giving you a comfortable, secure base with which to experience your trip. As part of the adventure you will be expected to have an active involvement in the day to day running of the trip, be part of the group and get stuck in and help with various tasks, whether it’s cooking meals over open fires, pitching your tent or keeping the truck clean and tidy. Seatbelts All Oasis Overland trucks are fitted with seatbelts. For your own safety and security we recommend that travellers wear these at all times whilst the vehicle is moving. Our overland trucks in Africa also have a 'beach area' which is a chill out zone to be used when the truck is not moving.
Accommodation
Camping - Oasis uses roomy three-person tents but only for two people. They are specially made for us to meet the tougher conditions of an overland trip and have mosquito netting sewn into the door and windows. Tents are shared (between two people of the same sex from your group unless you are a couple). We spend some nights bush or desert camping and the rest of the time in campsites. Facilities and standards at campsites vary, some are well equipped and managed and some are very basic. At bush camps you will be living off the truck, so there will be no showers or en-suite facilities! At certain campsites there is the opportunity to upgrade to a private room at your own expense if you are missing your bed. Lodges / Hostels - At some locations we will stay in lodges and hostels that are small, locally run establishments. The accommodation will vary depending on the rooming available, from dormitory style rooms, to twins/doubles or triple rooms. Upgrades may be available on arrival, but cannot be reliably pre-booked. Please refer to the individual trip inclusions for the percentage break up of your accommodation.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of involvement is expected from participants during the trip?
Participants are expected to have an active involvement in the day-to-day running of the trip. This includes tasks such as cooking meals over open fires, pitching tents, and keeping the truck clean and tidy.
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What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes approximately 90% camping and 10% simple hostels or hotels. The camping involves roomy three-person tents shared between two people, with mosquito netting sewn into the door and windows. Some nights will be spent bush or desert camping, while others will be at campsites with varying facilities. In certain locations, there may be opportunities to upgrade to private rooms at your own expense.
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Are there any opportunities to upgrade accommodation during the tour?
Yes, at certain campsites, there is the opportunity to upgrade to a private room at your own expense if you are missing your bed. Upgrades may also be available at lodges and hostels, but these cannot be reliably pre-booked.
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What kind of transport is used during the tour?
The tour uses an Oasis Expedition Truck, which will serve as a comfortable and secure base for the trip. The truck is equipped with seatbelts and has a 'beach area' chill-out zone to be used when the truck is not moving.
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What meals are included in the tour?
Approximately 60% of meals are included in the tour. The remaining 40% of meals are not included and will need to be covered by the participants.
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What activities are included in the tour?
Included activities are a visit to the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi, a return ferry to Zanzibar, 4 nights of accommodation on Zanzibar, a guided walk through a village on Lake Malawi, and a visit to a privately run game ranch. Additionally, an overnight sleeper train from Bulawayo to Victoria Falls is included if available.
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What optional excursions are available during the tour?
Optional excursions include a Serengeti Excursion, which is bookable as an add-on, and other optional activities listed in the Pre-Departure Information. These are not included in the tour price.
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What is the local payment required at the start of the trip?
A local payment of USD 760 (for 2023-24) is required at the start of the trip.
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What kind of wildlife can be expected during the tour?
Participants can expect to see a variety of wildlife including elephants, lions, cheetahs, white rhinos, buffalo, hippos, antelopes, crocodiles, pink flamingos, giraffes, zebras, and more. Wildlife spotting opportunities are available in places like the Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti National Park, Mikumi National Park, and Matobo National Park.
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What are some of the highlights of the tour?
Highlights of the tour include a 4x4 safari through the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park, visiting waterfalls and hot springs at the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, exploring Zanzibar Island's beaches and Stone Town, driving through Mikumi National Park, visiting local villages on Lake Malawi, exploring the Eastern Highlands near Chimanimani, and experiencing the mighty Victoria Falls.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes, if you are travelling solo. On our Overland Adventures and Ultimate Expeditions, we will pair you up with a tent buddy of the same sex when we camp and the same goes for twin & shared rooms in hostels, so there is no need to go it alone! If you specifically would like to request your own single room whilst on the trip, this may be requested subject to availability and additional fee.
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How many people do you take on your Trips?
On most of our Overland Adventures and Ultimate Expeditions our vehicles can carry a maximum of 24 travellers, the average however is around 16-20 on any one trip. Our Small Group Adventures have a maximum of 18 people per Tour Leader, although again the average is around 10-14 people.
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Low Deposit
Oasis Overland requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of oasis overland charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 33% of booking price.
At 45 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.
At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.