Zambia and Malawi - North

Reference # 11SSZAM(N)

Included: Accommodation and meals as indicated in the itinerary, transport, registered guides and selected activities as per itinerary.
Excluded: flights, all items of a personal nature, alcohol, snacks, souvenirs, tips and optional activities etc.

Day 1. Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe to Lusaka, Zambia
Our Zambia and Malawi adventure tour begins as we set off early from Victoria Falls when we catch a last sighting of the mighty falls before crossing the border into Zambia. While we have a long day travelling today, we get our first impressions of the Africa that awaits us. Colourful markets, busy villages and rural scenes form the backdrop of our journey to the outskirts of Lusaka. We enjoy a prepared meal on arrival as our guides brief us on the days ahead.

Since the tour departs from Victoria Falls on day one, we always highly recommend that clients arrive at least one day earlier. This gives you time to acclimatize and to see the wonderful falls and the town.

Day 2. Petauke
This morning we drive through Zambia’s busy capital Lusaka before turning east towards Petauke, our destination for the night. As an important link between Lusaka and neighbouring Malawi, the Great East Road winds through rural Zambia and we will cross the mighty Luangwa River along the way. Dotted with villages and subsistence farms, todays landscapes serve as a stark contrast to the developed countries so many of us call home.

Day 3. South Luangwa National Park
With two days of travel behind us we look forward to the tranquillity of South Luangwa and this morning we make our way to the banks of the Luangwa River. Our first stop though is the town of Chipata, home of Chipata Cotton and an important centre for the cotton farmers of the region. Tribal Textiles represents the creativity of the African culture and those interested can enjoy a tour of their workshops (March to December). One of the finest sunsets is surely that enjoyed on the banks of the Luangwa River, so grab a cold drink and watch the day fade away

Day 4. South Luangwa National Park
South Luangwa National Park is a world-class safari destination and we have a full day to explore the park in search of the variety of wildlife found in the park. This morning you can partake in an optional morning safari or during the dry season (April to December) you can join one of the iconic walking safaris on offer in the park. This afternoon we will enjoy a sunset drive in the park including a sundowner stop. The unique opportunity to explore the park at night gives us a chance to spot the elusive nocturnal species that are rarely seen in the day.

Day 5. Southern Lake Malawi
This morning we board our truck and set off for Malawi, the warm heart of Africa. Our destination tonight is the shores of Lake Malawi, the southernmost lake in the East African Rift system. As one of the ten largest lakes in the world, the lake stretches for over 500km along the western boundary of Malawi and is home to more species of fish than any other lake. We spend the night on the shores of this natural wonder.

Day 6. Lake Malawi
Today we visit a local village near our lodge with the Nomad guide. The rest of the day is set aside for you to relax at the lake. Use the time to read a book, soak up the sun or indulge in the many attractions that are on offer.

Day 7. Northern Lake Malawi
Today we are back on the road for most of the day travelling further north and will overnight once again on the banks of Lake Malawi. Enjoy the sunset over the lake from the beach. Your guide will assist you to plan your activities for the coming days, or you can simply slow your clock to Africa time relaxing on the lake shore.

Day 8. Lake Malawi
Snorkelling in the crystal waters offers the chance to see first-hand the brilliantly coloured tropical cichlids, tiny fish often found in colourful aquariums around the world. Your afternoon will be spent walking through the small village of Ngala.

Day 9. Iringa, Tanzania
Today as we leave Malawi, we ascend the Great Rift Valley and make our way into Tanzania. We round the northern extremes of the lake as we turn east and continue to our overnight stop in Iringa.

Day 10. Mikumi National Park
This morning we complete our journey to the doorstep of Mikumi National Park. Mikumi ranks as the fourth largest park in Tanzania, but forms part of a 75 000 square kilometre wilderness that centres on Selous, Africa’s largest game reserve (wildlife reserve). Today you will have the opportunity to book a game drive in Mikumi National Park.

Day 11. Mikumi to Dar es Salaam
Today we continue onwards to the bustling port of Dar es Salaam. Dar es Salaam grew from a humble fishing village and today is one of the largest cities in Africa.  You tour comes to an end upon arrival in Dar es Salaam.

Below you will find answers to frequently asked questions about adventure or overland tours to Africa.

• FAQs & More Information

Before and after the tour services
To help with the planning of your trip, you are more than welcome to book these hotels before and/ or after your tour through us. These hotels are either the starting or end point of your tour, or it will be conveniently close to it. These hotels also offer airport transfers. For information on prices, just click “Hotels and Transfers“.

The Kariakoo Sleep Inn Hotel in Dar es Salaam is located only 20 minutes from the main International Airport. The hotel has spacious rooms, honey moon suites and normal suites. For your convenience there is free wi-fi, a business center, access to a bank, pharmacy and several shops in the immediate vicinity.