46
Day Northern Trek
Johannesburg to Nairobi
(Trip Code: JN46 - 2008) Departs every 2nd or 3rd Wednesday
Rate till 30 Sep
2008 Price
R16 890 + Local payment US$930
46
Day Northern Trek
Johannesburg to Nairobi
(Trip Code: JN46 - 2008) Departs every 2nd or 3rd Wednesday
Rate till 30 Sep
2008 Price
R16 890 + Local payment US$930
This trip starts in Johannesburg and travels north through South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda and finishes in Nairobi, Kenya. Travelling on this trip will give you a true appreciation of these areas of the mighty African continent. You will travel from the orderly, well run exciting country of South Africa to the exhilarating reality that Uganda has to offer. Being able to adapt to the changing pace and places, will see you accept that the African person is a true survivor in adverse times. You will not only see the animals and people in their own environment, but experience the feel of Africa at the grass roots level. You will come away a true convert to our way of life. Maybe!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: 9:30amHIGHLIGHTS
Kruger National Park
Gweru - The Antelope Park
Matobo National Park
Victoria Falls
Lake Kariba
Lake Malawi
Tanzania
Serengeti National Park
Ngorongoro Crater
Masai Mara game Reserve
Kampala
Kisoro - Gorillas
Lake Bunyoni
Lake Nakuru National Park
Lake NaivashaDAY 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 for an overnight in Dar es Salaam. There may be an opportunity to visit one of the craft markets offering an extensive range of exquisite ebony products (where prices depend on your bargaining skills) and where the goods are made on-site. It is possible to observe the carvers at work and understand the skill, which has gone into making even the simplest trinket. (D)
DAY 27: Dar es Salaam to Arusha
From Dar es Salaam we travel through the countryside with its vast sisal plantations to Arusha. On the way we pass the Pare and Usambara Mountain ranges before driving through the town of Moshi, the base for Mt. Kilimanjaro climbing expeditions, and weather permitting, we may catch a glimpse of this magical mountain’s snowy summit. A photo opportunity not to be missed! (B,L,D)
DAY 28: Arusha to Serengeti National Park (optional Excursion)
Arusha is a pleasant town situated at the base of Mount Meru and is the starting point for the optional excursions to Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti. We conduct these excursions in locally operated 4WD vehicles, which are adapted for safari use. Depending on which option you choose, you will be away from the Arusha campsite for either one or two nights.
If you take up the two night/three day option you will depart Arusha in the morning with your vehicles and guides. The drive to the Serengeti National Park takes us through the Masai town of Mtu Wa Mbu (Mosquito River) and up into the Ngorongoro Reserve for a glimpse of the Ngorongoro Crater before descending down onto the plains of the Serengeti. The abundance of plains game in this area is truly astounding. The afternoon will be spent game viewing before setting up camp in the midst of the national park. With some luck we will be able to listen to the nighttime noises of the wildlife! (B,L,D)
DAY 29: Serengeti National Park to Ngorongoro Crater
After a full morning game drive in the Serengeti we will return to pull down camp and head back towards the Ngorongoro. Enroute we will have the option of a visit to Olduvai Gorge, known as the cradle of civilisation (time permitting), or a visit to a Masai village to learn a little more about these unique and intriguing people. From here we travel up to Ngorongoro craters edge for our campsite for the evening. We suggest you pack your winter woollies as it can get very cold on the rim of the crater during night times.
For those taking the one night/two day option you will be collected from Arusha in the afternoon and transferred to the town of Karatu for the evening. (B,L,D)
DAY 30: Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha
Ngorongoro Crater with its 600 metre walls and 20 kilometre width is a natural wonder, and offers a spectacular view from the rim. The true size of this caldera is only appreciated from the floor itself and the abundance of its animal inhabitants becomes apparent. It is home to nearly every species of African animal and offers a chance to view an incredible concentration of East African mammals, such as elephant, rhino, buffalo, hippo, lion, and plain’s game. After spending the full morning in the crater you will return to the campsite near Arusha for another night. Both optional excursions will follow the same schedule today. (B,L,D)
DAY 31: Arusha to Namanga
After a leisurely morning start and the chance to explore the snake exhibits at our campsite in Arusha we will take some time in Arusha for our last Tanzanian stop. Explore the craft markets in town or stop at the bakery for a local coffee. Lunch will be just outside town as we head the last 120 kms north to the Tanzania / Kenya border town of Namanga. After competing formalities we will camp at Namanga on the Kenyan side of the border. (B,L,D)
DAY 32: Namanga to Nairobi
This morning we travel the final 180 kms north to the capital city, Nairobi, arriving in the morning. On arrival in Nairobi, the truck will proceed to the Boulevard Hotel to allow passengers to disembark there, and will then drive to our campsite to overnight. (B)
DAY 33: Nairobi to Masai Mara game Reserve
We will depart from the Boulevard Hotel and leave the hustle and bustle of Nairobi and climb the escarpment to our first viewpoint stop over looking the Great African Rift Valley. Descending into the Rift valley we enter Masai land, and these habitual pastoralists are seen quite regularly on the side of the road as they tend their cattle. We will arrive at our campsite – Acacia Camp - early evening in time to enjoy sunset on the Masai Mara. (L, D)
DAY 34: Masai Mara
Game drives through the Mara find us looking for the infamous big 5 as well as giving us the opportunity to see this ‘ garden of Eden’ in a state nature intended it to be, huge plains, rolling hills and an abundance of game matched no where else on earth. Elephant, lion, cheetah, giraffe, zebra, waterbuck just to name a few of the animal that inhabit this wonderland. Sitting around a campfire and watching the sunset is the perfect way to finish a day’s game viewing in the Mara. (B, L, D)
DAY 35: Masai Mara to Nakuru
Departing the Masai Mara early we will pass through the third largest town in Kenya, Nakuru, where we will stop for the night to re supply and shop. (B, L, D)
DAY 36: Nakuru to Kampala
Today, we cross the border into Uganda and travel via the lakeside town of Jinja (the Source of the Nile) before reaching Kampala, Uganda's capital, for an overnight stay. Uganda is a small country of striking physical beauty. Its landscapes vary from the fertile green areas around the northern shores of Lake Victoria to the snow-covered Ruwenzori Mountains in the west and the semi-desert parts of the north facing the border of Sudan.
The political instability that haunted Uganda over a period of years has had the positive effect of leaving the country free of the over commercialism so common in other parts of Africa. The current administration under President Museveni has devoted considerable effort and funds to regain Uganda's former glory as one of Africa's most prosperous and, from a tourist’s point of view, one of the most appealing and interesting countries to visit. (B, L, D)
DAYS 37 & 38: Kampala to Kisoro
After an early morning departure from Kampala we drive further west on into the depths of Uganda and arrive at our base in Kisoro. (B, L, D)
From our Kisoro base, depending on where the gorilla permits are available, and where the gorillas are located, we will be viewing them in either the Magahinga or Bwindi National Parks in Uganda, the Virunga National Park in the DRC or at Ruhengeri in Rwanda. Due to the nature of the gorillas and their habits, viewing cannot be guaranteed. The gorillas themselves can tend to move around the locality quite a distance and the trek can be quite arduous. The cost to trek the gorillas differs from park to park and can range from US$275 to US$375, per 1 hour viewing. There is usually a park entry fee as well of approx. US$15. There is also a cost for the local transport to take you to & from the starting point to trek the gorillas. This cost is normally US$10 to US$15 per person. Please note that Africa Travel Co is not in control of the price of gorilla permits and thereforee cannot be held responsible for any increases in fees levied by the relevant authorities. National parks usually allow clients who fail to see the gorillas, a second chance to re-trek the next day if time and availability allows or they may refund your trekking fee. This is purely at their discretion. Although this is the general situation, the respective National Parks authorities will not put this in writing to any tour operator. Again the respective park authorities say that you are paying to trek the gorillas, not view them. Africa Travel Co is considered to be the main tour operator within the overland industry and we have a very high success rate of getting in and actually seeing these magnificent animals.
Please note: This is an optional excursion and visas to the DRC and Rwanda can be obtained at the border.
The mountain gorilla (Gorilla Gorilla Berengei) of whom only about 600 still exist, is one of our closest living relatives, yet ironically, it is mankind that poses the greatest threat to its survival. To visit these noble creatures in there own environment is an experience you will never forget. Accompanied by a park guide and a bush cutter, we track these gorillas through the rain forest.
The gorilla families have been habituated to tourists and their whereabouts are monitored daily by the guides and park officials. It may be necessary to trek for quite a while through the dense forest vegetation (up to 5 hrs) in order to reach the family designated for your visit.
As gorillas are sensitive to human diseases, the park authorities will not allow anyone they consider to be in poor health to visit the gorilla groups and children under 15 years of age are not allowed to visit.
You need not feel that you are exploiting these animals - for years they have been ruthlessly hunted for their hands and heads, which have been sold as souvenir ashtrays and lampshades. In addition, large numbers have been killed whilst trying to stop poachers stealing babies for sale to zoos, where they have never lived long. As a result, the ever growing number of tourists to see them is an important factor in their survival. The gorilla fees help to set up and finance patrols that are instrumental in protecting the gorillas from poachers and their lethal snares.
DAY 39: Kisoro to Lake Bunyoni
A short drive through arguably some of the most picturesque scenery in Africa brings us to lake Bunyoni. Lake Bunyoni is the deepest crater lake in Africa and is home to a large number of bird and fish species as well as otters. (B, L, D)
DAY 40: Lake Bunyoni
Today we have the whole day at leisure to enjoy the beauty of Lake Bunyoni. There is the option to swim, visit the local villages or just sit back, relax and enjoy the tranquil surrounds. A well deserved rest day! (B, L, D)
DAY 41: Lake Bunyoni to Kampala
After enjoying the peaceful surrounds of Lake Bunyoni we drive to Kampala for another overnight stay, and perhaps the chance to sample the nightlife. Today we will cross the equator for the second time and there will be ample opportunity for photos at the Equator crossing. (B, L, D)
DAY 42: Kampala to Jinja
Today we have the option to either white water raft the Nile or visit Ngamba Chimpanzee Sanctuary. For the adventurous, you will be collected from Kampala and transferred to Jinja where you will experience some of the best white water rafting in Africa. For the less adventurous, you will have the morning at leisure or the option to take a full day excursion to visit Ngamba Chimp Sanctuary before our departure to Jinja.
Our overnight camp is right on the edge of the Nile River where there is an abundance of resident bird life & some truly amazing photo opportunities from right outside your tent! (B, L, D)
DAY 43: Jinja to Nakuru
Today will be a full day driving back towards Kenya, we will cross the border before lunch and stop for supplies en route. Tonight we will overnight again in Nakuru. (B,L,D)
DAY 44: Lake Nakuru National Park
Today we move onto Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for the thousands of flamingo that inhabits the Lake's edge. The numbers vary depending on the level of the lake, and are more numerous when the water level is low. The Park has also been established as a sanctuary for black and white rhino, which are frequently seen in the Park, along with buffalo, giraffe, waterbuck, various antelope, leopard and the occasional hippo. After entering the park in the morning we will spend the rest of the day game driving. (B,L,D)
DAY 45: Lake Nakuru National Park to Lake Naivasha
Moving further east, we drive to Lake Naivasha where we make camp in peaceful surroundings beside the lake. The highest of the Rift Valley lakes, Naivasha lies at about 1880m again the lake is home to a multitude of bird life, pride of place must go to the African Fish Eagle. The afternoon is spent at leisure here and you have the opportunity (time permitting) to enjoy some optional excursions, such as a boat ride to the Crescent Island Game Sanctuary, Hell's Gate National Park or Elsamere, the retirement home of Joy Adamson ("Born Free"). (B,L,D)
DAY 46: Lake Naivasha to Nairobi
After breakfast, we leave Naivasha and return to Nairobi, arriving in the early afternoon. The truck will stop at the Boulevard Hotel for those staying there, and then continue to our campsite to finish the trip. (B)
Local Payment: US$930
Optional Excursions:
Night Game Drive in Kruger National Park US$40
Walking with Lions US$35
Victoria Falls National Park US$20
Zanzibar Accommodation US$15p/p
Kariba House Boats (2 nights) US$110
Game Walk on Maaze Island US$10
Serengeti/Ngorongoro Crater option (3 day) US$340
Ngorongoro Crater option (1 day) US$200
White Water Rafting, River Nile US$95
Gorilla trek US$500(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.
Free Trip
Please note that when you book this trip you are entitled to receive a free 3 day Masai Mara Safari. The Local Payment is still applicable for the trip. This offer must be taken up when booking your main trip. Please ask your travel agent or the tour operator for details. Conditions apply.
2008 DEPARTURES
Southern Trek Northern Trek NJ46 JN46 Price R 16,890 Price R 16,890 Local Payment U$930 Local Payment U$930 START FINISH START FINISH NBO JNB JNB NBO SUN WED WED SAT 2-Mar-08 16-Apr-08 27-Feb-08 12-Apr-08 30-Mar-08 14-May-08 26-Mar-08 10-May-08 27-Apr-08 11-Jun-08 23-Apr-08 7-Jun-08 25-May-08 9-Jul-08 21-May-08 5-Jul-08 22-Jun-08 6-Aug-08 18-Jun-08 2-Aug-08 16-Jul-08 30-Aug-08
