26
Day African Dream
Johannesburg to Dar Es Salaam
Kruger, Zimbabwe Ruins, Matobo NP, Vic Falls, Malawi,
Zanzibar
(Trip Code: JZ26) Departs every 2nd Sunday
Rate till 30 Sep
2008 Tour Price: R10 090 & Local payment:
US$575
This trip starts in Johannesburg and travels north through South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania and finishes in Dare Es Salaam, Tanzania. Beginning in one of Africa’s most famed National Parks, Kruger, your wildlife experience will continue as you get up close and personal with the lions of the Antelope Park and the rhinos of Matobo National Park. History will come alive as you explore the architectural wonder of the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, before heading to the beauty of Victoria Falls - one of the seven natural wonders of the world. This trip will take you to the markets of East Africa and the spice island of Zanzibar. Combining a real taste of the treasures of Africa!Please note that this trip departs Johannesburg on a Wednesday, early morning. Should you wish to spend extra time there an earlier arrival should be planned and additional accommodation booked.
Pre Departure Meeting: Held at departure point at 5:00pm the day before your departure.
Departure Point: Ritz backpackers 1A North Road, Dunkled West.
Check In Time: 8:45am
Departure Time: 9:30am
HIGHLIGHTS Kruger National Park
Blyde River Canyon
Gods Window
Gweru - The Antelope Park
Matobo National Park
Victoria Falls
Lake Kariba
Lake Malawi
Iringa, Tanzania
ZanzibarDAY 01: Johannesburg to Hazyview – Kruger Park Backpackers:
Departing Johannesburg we head towards the Lowveld and the very famous Kruger National Park, our camp for the next two nights is 8 km from Kruger Parks Numbi Gate. Spoilt with a swimming pool and good hot showers we spend the evening around the campfire anticipating our game drive tomorrow. (L,D)
DAY 02: Kruger Park Backpackers, Hazyview
Today we explore the wonders of Kruger National Park. This is one of the most famous wildlife parks in the world. Covering an area of 21, 497 sq. km – 60 km wide and over 350 km long, this conservation area has more than 500 bird species, 114 reptile, 49 fish, 33 amphibians, 146 mammals and over 23000 plant species have been recorded. Today is spent in the Park on a full day game drive to see how many of the species can be found. Tonight there is an option of a night drive in the park (B, L, D)
DAY 03: Hazyview to Graskop
After a quick replenishing of our stocks we leave the Lowveld, climbing up in altitude to the beautiful town of Graskop, it is from this gateway that we get to explore the beauties of Mpumulanga, known for some of the best landscape in South Africa. Our stops for the day include the ever striking Blyde River Canyon and Gods Window. There is a chance to view the Canyon from the many viewpoints, which offers fantastic photographic opportunities. We then set up camp on lush green grass and enjoy the luxuries of a swimming pool with the most amazing view. For those in a party mood the small town of Graskops nightlife is something to be indulged in. (B, L, D) DAY 04: Graskop to Messina
A long yet lovely days drive as we head up north toward Zimbabwe, this is your chance to sit back, relax and enjoy the ever changing scenery, tonight is our last night in beautiful South Africa in a town called Messina – said to be one of the hottest areas in South Africa. Years back this was a flourishing copper mining area, but with the mines closing down in the early 1990’s it tumbled into the darkness of a small quiet ghost town. With the discovery of diamonds it has again once flourished into its former self, and now a sphere filled with history. (B, L, D)
DAY 05 Messina to Masivingo
Leaving South Africa we enter Zimbabwe a country of tradition, culture, soul and a lot of scenic beauty. We make our way to the town of Masivingo, which lies in the outskirts of the Great Zimbabwe Ruins. Great Zimbabwe was the greatest medieval city in sub-Sahara and provides evidence that an ancient African civilization reached a very high level of civilization. The name Zimbabwe is derived from the Shona word meaning great stone houses. The grand setting and history soaked walls certainly qualify as one of the highlights of our trip. You will have the time to wander around this ancient wonderland before setting up camp for our first night in Zimbabwe. (B, L, D)
DAY 06: Masivingo to Gweru
Once we have finished exploring this historic area we continue our journey to Gweru, situated in the Zimbabwe Midlands. Here we stop over at The Antelope Park. People say you have not been to Zimbabwe until you have visited the Victoria Falls … AND The Antelope Park. Here you have the opportunity to partake in an incredible experience unique to The Antelope Park - ‘Walking with the lions". In addition to the lions there is an abundance of other wildlife species in the park such as elephants, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest and over 150 bird species. (B, L, D)
DAY 07: Gweru – Antelope Park
Today is spent as leisure with a variety of activities to enthral you. From walking with Lions, elephant riding, swimming on the majestic elephant, to trying your hand at fishing the list is endless. (B, L, D)
DAYS 08: Gweru to Bulawayo
Bulawayo is the second largest city in Zimbabwe with a laid back atmosphere. It is noted for the exceptionally wide streets, which were originally designed to allow space for a full span ox wagon. The city is still characterised by the many old British colonial buildings, maintained by the Bulawayo City Council as heritage sites. There are a number of interesting places to visit in Bulawayo such as The natural History Museum, the National Arts Gallery and the Mzilikazi Arts and Crafts Centre, providing work for over 70 people. (B, L, D)
DAY 9: Bulawayo
Today we take in Matobo National Park. The park is one of the last strongholds of both black and white rhino, and the region is renowned for it’s high concentration of leopards and black eagle. There are numerous caves and rock painting which once again is evidence of the ancient San inhabitants of this area. Cecil Rhodes (after whom Rhodesia was named) is buried here at his own request, but there is some controversy over whether he will stay! We spend time game driving through the park giving you an insight into the unique geological, ecological and historical environment. (B, L, D)
DAY 10: Matobo National Park to Victoria Falls
Heading north we make our way to the mighty Victoria Falls, one of the natural wonders of the world. Victoria Falls is one of the memorable sights on your African safari. There are many activities available all year round such as, flights can be taken which gives you a panoramic view of the Falls, Batoka Gorge and the islands above the falls. Back on the ground, the Falls can be seen from the Victoria Falls Park with its many viewing points, or from the Zambian side. All offer fantastic photographic opportunities.
White water rafting in the Batoka Gorge is considered to be world class. Besides the excitement of the grade 5 rapids, there are "floats" where there is time to admire the scenic cliffs and occasional wildlife on the riverbanks.
Bungee jumping enthusiasts can take the plunge from the Zambezi Bridge, which connects Zambia and Zimbabwe. The leap into the Batoka Gorge is certainly not for the faint-hearted.
Other optional activities around Victoria Falls include day trips into the Zambezi National Park, horse riding safaris, a visit to the Crocodile Ranch, Snake Park, golf at Elephant Hills Hotel, parachuting, the Falls Craft Village and the Sunset Cruise. We suggest you allow yourself a few days after your safari if you wish to partake in some of the many activities. We have an office situated in the heart of Victoria Falls town and our friendly staff will be more than willing to help you arrange any activities you wish to do. (B)
DAYS 11 & 12: Victoria Falls
The next 2 days are at your own leisure to partake in activities or relax at the campsite swimming pool. We will also have some new clients joining us for the second part of the tour. (B on both days)
DAY 13 & 14: Victoria Falls to Lake Kariba
This morning we will pack up camp and depart Victoria Falls. Exiting Zimbabwe we cross the Victoria Falls Bridge and the Zambezi River to enter into Zambia at the town of Livingstone. We head to the western waters of Lake Kariba, our base camp for the next 2 nights. The lake is one of the largest man made lakes in the world, boasting a wide variety of African game, bird life and unique flora and fauna.
Here you have the option to take a 2 night trip on the House Boats on Lake Kariba. For those of you who do not want to partake in the House Boats there are many activities you can do at the campsite such as fishing, canoeing, hikes, explore the local village or just relax on the tranquil banks of Lake Kariba. The campsite also has a swimming pool where you can enjoy soaking up the sun. (B,L,D)
House Boat option 2 night/2 day:
We board the House Boats at approx. 1pm and have lunch after you have settled yourself in. We depart the harbour at approx. 2pm and sail out to the Maaze River for a beautiful sunset and overnight on the House Boats. Lake Kariba is famous for its spectacular sunsets. (B; L, D)
The next day you can relax the entire day on the deck of the House Boat and enjoy the on board Jacuzzi. House Boats on Lake Kariba are truly one of the most relaxing ways to spend a few days. For those of you feeling a bit more active in the early morning we take a Fishing/Game Cruise on tender boats or you have the option to do a game walk on the island in the Maaze area. There is opportunity to see plains game and many different species of bird life. After lunch and head to Maaze Island where we do a tour of the Crocodile Farm. Dinner is prepared on the boat while we sit back and enjoy our sundowners over the lake. (B, L, D)
DAY 15 Lake Kariba to Lusaka
After everyone has reunited we bid goodbye to Lake Kariba and we head north through Southern Zambia to a camp just before the capital city of Lusaka. The campsite is home to some local wildlife and has beautiful facilities. (B,L,D)
DAY 16 Lusaka to Chipata
From Lusaka we cross the north-eastern side of Zambia, heading to a beautiful little campsite just 10kms before the Zambia/Malawi border. Here we spend the night under the stars before heading into Malawi the following day. (B,L,D)
DAYS 17 to 20: Chipata to Lake Malawi
Leaving Zambia we cross the border into Malawi, the ‘Warm Heart of Africa’. We visit the capital Lilongwe, a small city distinctively divided into the old town and the new administrative centre. The newly democratic Malawi is a landlocked country with 20% of its total area being the beautiful Lake Malawi. The country's temperate climate allows for swimming in this clear blue fresh-waters all the year round.
We travel the full length of western side of lake, stopping off at various bays and inlets for the next 4 days. This is the time for rest and relaxation. Lake Malawi offers a variety of watersports from various beachside campsites. Alternatively, you can go wandering along quieter shorelines where you can see the fishermen sorting their daily catch. Traditional methods are still used in their fishing techniques and you can appreciate their boating skills by trying to paddle in a dugout canoe yourself.
Visit the nearby villages and schools as well as dine in the local village, haggle for a bargain at the local markets, learn the game of bao with some locals … or simply relax on the pristine white beaches. (B,L,D)
DAY 21: Lake Malawi to Iringa, Tanzania
We depart Malawi via Karonga and enter Tanzania through the border post of Songwe. We continue our journey through the Tanzanian countryside and take in the beauty of the Tukuyu tea plantations and banana plantations. Just before Iringa is the Old Farmhouse, a beautiful rustic campsite in rural Tanzania, where we spend the night. Try one of the signature Amarula Hot chocolates! (B,L,D)
DAY 22: Iringa to Dar es Salaam
The next morning we proceed to Dar es Salaam, passing through Mikumi National Park where it is possible to view a range of wildlife from the roadside, totally impervious to humans and their vehicles. On arrival in Dar es Salaam, we spend the night at a beach hotel/campsite that is situated to the north of the city, and prepare for our departure to Zanzibar the next morning. (B,L,D)
DAY 23: Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar
A ferry from Dar es Salaam takes us to the "Spice Island", where we will spend three nights on this legendary island. Zanzibar is steeped in history and was one of the major starting points for most East African explorers in their quest for new lands. (B)
Please note: Our crew can organise accommodation for you whilst on Zanzibar, although from our experience our clients have felt the need to explore the island on their own. thereforee accommodation and food is for client’s own account whilst on Zanzibar.
DAY 24 & 25: Zanzibar
History aside, Zanzibar offers a wealth of experiences for the visitor. Today the quiet streets of the old Stone Town still retain their Arabic influence, from the Medina-like shops to the palaces of the Sultans, who founded their vast empires on the spoils of the slave and ivory trade. The island is still famous for its spices, and tours around a spice plantation can be organised. Other options include a trip to the nearby Prison Island with its giant tortoises, and beautiful beaches to enjoy. Or perhaps you would enjoy the opportunity to hire a motorbike and explore the more remote areas of the island.
Zanzibar is a seafood lover’s paradise. Numerous restaurants offer a great variety of the freshest catch from the ocean - giant lobsters being a popular speciality. Alternatively, joining the locals for dinner in the waterfront market is an experience not to be missed. The market stalls offer an unusual selection of fast food African style at a very reasonable cost.
DAY 26: Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam
Leaving Zanzibar we take the ferry back to mainland of Dar es Salaam to finish this safari.
Local Payment: US$575
Optional Excursions:
Night Game Drive in Kruger National Park US$40
Walking with Lions US$35
Victoria Falls National Park US$20
Kariba House Boats (2 nights) US$110
Game Walk on Maaze Island US$10
Zanzibar Accommodation US$15p/p(Prices subject to change)
Please note: This itinerary should be used as a guide only and may vary from day to day depending on road conditions, weather, political situations, and group decisions. Due to new tourism laws in some of the countries we operate in there may be a truck and crew change during the trip. All prices & Local Payments are subject to change without prior notice.
2008 DEPARTURES
African Dream East-South Safari JZ26 ZJ26 Price R 10 090 Price R 10 090 Local Payment U$575 Local Payment U$575 START FINISH START FINISH JNB DAR DAR JNB WED SUN SAT WED 27-Feb-08 23-Mar-08 23-Feb-08 19-Mar-08 26-Mar-08 20-Apr-08 22-Mar-08 16-Apr-08 23-Apr-08 18-May-08 19-Apr-08 14-May-08 21-May-08 15-Jun-08 17-May-08 11-Jun-08 18-Jun-08 13-Jul-08 14-Jun-08 9-Jul-08 16-Jul-08 10-Aug-08 12-Jul-08 6-Aug-08
