African Budget Safaris Tours

5 Day Luxury Kruger Lodge Safari

2012-05-02T13:30:11Z

Summary of this Budget Lodge Safari

This 5 Day Luxury Kruger Lodge Safari includes three nights of 5 Star Lodge accommodation and one night at a standard safari lodge, offering an affordable yet luxurious Kruger safari experience.

Stay in luxury lodge accommodation in the Balule Private Game Reserve of Greater Kruger Park.

Embark on rewarding game drives and thrilling bush walks in this Big Five private concession.

Spend a full day exploring Kruger National Park proper in an open safari vehicle.

Travel back to Johannesburg where this affordable Kruger Lodge Safari started, passing through the scenic Panorama Route of South Africa.

Itinerary for this Budget Lodge Safari

Tour Highlights:

Two full days of game drives and walks in Balule Game Reserve, Greater Kruger
A full day of game viewing in Kruger National Park proper
Three nights luxury Lodge and one night standard Lodge accommodation
The Panorama Route - Three Rondawels of Blyde River Canyon

Day 1: Johannesburg to Greater Kruger Park

At the start of this Luxury Kruger Lodge Safari you will be collected from your accommodation or the International Airport in Johannesburg and transferred to Greater Kruger Park.

We travel east through the Highveld grasslands of the Mpumalanga Province of South Africa to our Game Lodge in the private Balule section of Greater Kruger Park.

Our first stop is at a safari lodge in Balule where we are welcomed with a relaxing drink, before transferring to the nearby luxury lodge for our overnight stay.

At the overnight lodge your hostess will meet you and help settle you in at your luxurious safari accommodation. Dinner at the lodge promises to be a culinary delight.

Meals included: Breakfast.

Day 2: Greater Kruger Park – South Africa

Today we start our game viewing adventures in the wild, enjoying a full day of activities in Greater Kruger.

We embark on thrilling game drives and bush walks, conducted by the expert staff of our luxury lodge.

Breakfast, lunch, high tea and dinner are all included in the tour price on day two and three. Your hostess and the lodge staff ensure that you get pampered and enjoy efficient service during your stay.

We stay in luxury lodge accommodation in Balule Nature Reserve on day two.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 3: Greater Kruger Park

We spend another full day game viewing in the Big Five Balule Reserve with the trained staff of our luxury safari lodge.

Your safari guide and tracker will take you in search of any of the Big Five of Africa you may have missed so far, as well as other wildlife found in Balule.

On the game drives the safari vehicles keep in constant contact via radio, improving your chances of sighting wildlife in this vast expanse of untamed bushveld.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 4: Kruger National Park

Today starts with an early morning transfer to our next overnight safari lodge, where we enjoy breakfast.

Our qualified Kruger Park guide takes you into Kruger National Park proper on day four of this Kruger Lodge Safari. We venture into South Africa's premier national park for a full day of game viewing in our open safari vehicle.

After a rewarding day of game viewing in Kruger National Park we return to our safari lodge in Balule Game Reserve for dinner and our last overnight stay.

This standard safari lodge is set in a lovely subtropical garden with water features and has electric fencing to keep out the lion, elephant, buffalo and other wildlife found in the area.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner.

Day 5: Greater Kruger Park to Johannesburg

On the final day of this Kruger Park Lodge Safari we rise early for one more Game Drive in the Kruger Park Private Concession area.

After our sunrise game drive in Big 5 territory we have breakfast and make our way back to Johannesburg in Gauteng.

Our return journey takes us through one of the most scenic parts of South Africa, the Panorama Route, where we get to admire the spectacular views of the Three Rondawels and the impressive Blyde River Canyon.

This affordable and luxurious Kruger Safari comes to an end in the late afternoon when we arrive back in Johannesburg.

Meals included: Breakfast.

Please note:

Airport drop-off can be arranged for those catching onward flights from Johannesburg.

Tour Accommodation

Luxury Lodge Accommodation:

We stay at one of two luxury lodges in Balule Nature Reserve on this Kruger Safari.

Both 5 Star Safari Lodges are located on the banks of the Olifants River, with one of the lodges also featuring accommodation beside a seasonal river in the game-rich Balule Reserve of Greater Kruger.

Both exclusive lodges offer superb game viewing in open safari vehicles with trained guides. Excellent traditional cuisine of international standards is served at the stylish lodges in authentic African settings surrounded by nature.

Enjoy the comforts of staying in luxurious lodge accommodation with attentive service, at either of the elegant and tranquil lodges - at affordable prices.

The more intimate safari lodge features a rock pool and the other exclusive lodge has a swimming pool, both offering a truly unique African safari experience.

Standard Lodge Accommodation:

Our standard safari lodge is also situated in the exclusive Balule section of Greater Kruger National Park.

This comfortable lodge features a swimming pool, bar area and subtropical gardens with water features and lush plant life.

Accommodation at this accessible lodge is in air-conditioned chalets with en suite facilities (shower, toilet, basin). The safari lodge is serviced by two active boreholes and is enclosed by electrical fencing to keep out the lions, elephant and buffalo found in the area.

Pre and Post Safari Lodge Option:

Please note that we offer convenient pre and post tour lodge accommodation for before and after this Kruger Safari. This lodge accommodation can be added to your tour booking upon request. The travel lodge accommodation is located 10-15 minutes from the OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg and the rates include a transfer, en-suite accommodation and breakfast.

2012 Lodge Rates:

R350 per person sharing
R550 per single booking

About Balule in Greater Kruger National Park

There are no fences separating this 35000-hectare Private Game Park from Kruger National Park allowing numerous wild animals to roam freely between these wilderness areas. The Olifant's River flows through the Bulule game reserve attracting a variety of birds and animals year-round.

Balule is home to the iconic Big Five of Africa with buffalo, lion and elephant being sighted the most regularly sometimes even from the lodge property! Other wildlife commonly sighted in Balule include giraffe, wildebeest, hyena, zebra, hippo, warthog, mongoose, vervet monkey and various antelope species, such as waterbuck, steenbok, impala and kudu.

Nocturnal animals such as civets, bushbabies, bats, hares, genets, wild cats and porcupines can be spotted on night game drives. Some of the more elusive wild animals found in this part of Greater Kruger include cheetah, African wild dog, bat-eared fox and badger, as well as caracal and serval cat and a variety of antelope species, such suni, roan and sable antelope.

The Greater Kruger Park area consists of various private game parks, such as Balule, that share unfenced boundaries with Kruger National Park proper. Staying in a private game lodge allows you to escape the main throng of tourists, as the Balule game reserve is not open to the general public.

Balule is closed to the general public and we drive mostly on dirt roads encountering fewer safari vehicles - a more remote game viewing experience in untamed Africa!

On this exclusive safari adventure you get a more secluded bush experience that brings you closer to nature. Another advantage of game viewing in the Balule private reserve is that your qualified guides communicate with each other via two-way radio, increasing the number of wildlife sightings on your drives.

Yet another perk of staying at a private lodge is that off-road driving is permitted in this exclusive game reserve area of the Greater Kruger Park, improving your chances of spotting wildlife in the bush.

About Kruger National Park

The world-renowned Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s best safari destinations and South Africa’s premier game reserve. Covering nearly 2 million hectares of untamed African bush the variety of habitats in Kruger Park are home to a breath-taking diversity of plants and animals.

Kruger is South Africa’s top travel destination offering superb game viewing, including massive populations of Africa’s iconic Big Five - elephant, rhino, leopard, lion and buffalo.

This vast wilderness area is inhabited by a staggering 147 mammal species and 517 bird species, as well as a variety of other wild animals and 336 tree species. South Africa's flagship national park, Kruger Park is considered a world leader in advanced environmental policies and wildlife management practices.

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Tanzania Wildlife Camping Safari

2012-04-17T16:00:05Z

Summary of this Exclusive Budget Safari

This affordable week-long Tanzania Wildlife Camping Tour visits East African highlights, including:

Tarangire National Park
Lake Manyara National Park
Serengeti National Park
Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area

Explore top Tanzanian Game Parks, world-famous for their superb wildlife and scenic beauty on this unforgettable Budget Tanzania Camping Safari.

Itinerary for this Exclusive Budget Safari

DAY 1: Arusha – Tanzania D

This Tanzania Camping Safari starts in the town of Arusha, gateway to the well-loved Northern Tanzanian Safari Circuit.

You will be collected from the airport and transferred to your safari lodge in the fertile forests surrounding Arusha. Arusha town is located at the foot of Mount Meru, the 5th highest mountain in Africa.

If time allows you can explore the leafy grounds of the lodge, take a swim in the pool or try some of the optional activities available.

DAY 2: Arusha – Tarangire National Park - Manyara BLD

On the morning of day two, we depart from our safari lodge near Arusha after breakfast.

We travel via Arusha town, stopping to shop for last minute supplies before embarking on our exhilarating African safari experience!

Our first game viewing destination is Tarangire National Park where we pause for for lunch before taking an exciting afternoon game drive.

Tarangire Park is an incredibly diverse area, boasting a unique mix of habitats within the northern safari circuit.

Tarangire is renowned for its huge elephant population, hosting the highest density of elephants in Tanzania. The game reserve is also well known for its abundance of baobab trees, as well as tree climbing lions.

This 2850 km² game park is the central wilderness area on the annual migratory route through northern Tanzania. This wildlife migration sees up to 3000 elephant, 25,000 wildebeest and 30,000 zebra stampeding across the plains in search of greener grass.

DAY 3: Manyara National Park – Tanzania BLD

Today starts with a morning coffee, before we make our way to Lake Manyara National Park for an early morning game viewing drive.

This scenic national park protects the north-western part of Lake Manyara, running along the base of the Great Rift Valley's western escarpment.

The shallow soda lake is attracts over 380 bird species and is known for its large flamingo flocks. This compact and diverse game park is also home to the elusive tree-climbing lion.

After lunch and rest at the lodge during the heat of the day, we head out on a short afternoon game drive in Manyara National Park.

DAY 4: Manyara – Ngorongoro Crater – Serengeti – Tanzania BLD

Day four of this Tanzania Wildlife Camping Tour starts with an early breakfast, before driving to the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater of Tanzania.

We ascend the crater wall on our scenic drive to the entrance of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Next we explore the floor of the game-rich crater, stopping for lunch in this wildlife haven.

The Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the Big Five of Africa (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo).

Known as the Eden of Africa and considered the 8th Natural Wonder of the World, Ngorongoro hosts around 25000 large animals, one of the highest concentrations of big game in Africa. Wildlife found in the crater includes hyena, wildebeest, zebra, serval cat, cheetah, Thompson and Grant gazelles, as well as about 400 bird species.

We stop for lunch during our rewarding wildlife experiene in the world's largest unflooded caldera. From the Ngorongoro Crater we travel to the world-famous Serengeti National Park, enjoying some game viewing en route.

Entering the vast and scenic Serengeti Park we head north towards the Ikoma area, renowned for its resident population of non-migratory wildlife. We explore this watery, more thickly vegetated part of Serengeti in search of its wild animals.

DAY 5: Serengeti – Tanzania BLD

We spend a full day embarking on game viewing activities in Serengeti National Park.

Starting with an early morning game drive after breakfast, we have lunch back at the safari, before venturing into the bush on foot.

Our thrilling afternoon game walk in Serengeti Park is followed by a equally exciting night game drive in search of nocturnal animals. We return to the camp after our night drive in time for dinner and an evening of relaxation.

The Serengeti Plains are renowned for the massive annual wildebeest migration and the large resident predator population, especially big cats.

The Serengeti Park, the most popular and oldest national park in Tanzania, is the iconic wildlife setting of untamed Africa.

A UNESCO World Heritage site and the 7th Natural Wonder of the World, Serengeti is one of the most important game reserves in Africa.

From February to May, a herd of over a million wildebeest (gnu), along with more than 200,000 zebra and 300,000 Thomson's gazelle migrate for the Western Corridor of the park, in search of greener pastures.

The Serengeti is home to lion, leopard, zebra, Thompson gazelle, impala, Grant’s gazelle and buffalo. This vast Tanzanian game park is dominated by open grassland, dotted with isolated granite hills and acacia woodlands.

DAY 6: Serengeti – Lake Manyara – Tanzania BLD

On day six we take a morning game drive through Serengeti, retracing our steps as we make our way out of this superb East African wilderness area.

Along the way south we stop for lunch, game viewing as we drive through the game-rich Ngorongoro Conservation Area of Tanzania.

We have the opportunity to go to Olduvai Gorge and visit its interesting museum. The Olduvai Gorge musuem documents the discovery of 1.8 million year old fossil remains of our earliest human ancestors.

DAY 7: Lake Manyara - Arusha B

Our final day kicks off with breakfast, before we explore the lively town of Mto-wa-Mbu.

We pause in Mto-wa-Mbu to do some curio shopping and take last minute photographs, before we return to Arusha where this Tanzania Wildlife Camping Tour ends.

Tour Accommodation

Camping / Half-Accommodated Safari:

Accommodation on this African Safari is at designated campsites inside National Parks, on riverbanks, or at other places of interest.

The campsites feature shared ablution facilities with showers, flush toilets and running water (unless otherwise specified).

We stay at less crowded campsites taking you to secluded spots, often supported by the local community. Camping accommodation is in spacious 3-person dome tents, sharing two people per tent, with 5 cm thick sleeping mattresses. On the accommodated night guests stay in mid-range lodge accommodation (as described below).

Fully Accommodated Safari:

Stay in mid-range lodge accommodation in National Parks, on riverbanks, or in other places of interest.

Tour accommodation will be in a mix of standard lodges, chalets and tented camps, with en suite bathroom facilities (shower and toilet). Some of the lodges feature swimming pools and/or bar areas. On this combined tour camping and accommodated safari clients travel together in a group, with meals prepared by the guide at camp.

Please Note:

This Tanzania Wildlife Camping Safari is also available as an accommodated safari - see Tanzania Wildlife Lodge Tour.

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Tanzania Wildlife Lodge Safari

2012-04-17T15:54:47Z

Summary of this Budget Lodge Safari

This affordable week-long Tanzania Wildlife Lodge Tour visits East African highlights, including:

Tarangire National Park
Lake Manyara National Park
Serengeti National Park
Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area

Explore Tanzania's Best Game Parks, world-famous for their superb wildlife and scenic beauty on this memorable Budget Tanzania Lodge Safari.

Itinerary for this Budget Lodge Safari

DAY 1: Arusha – Tanzania D

This Budget Tanzania Lodge Safari starts in the town of Arusha, gateway to the well-loved Northern Tanzanian Safari Circuit.

If time allows you can explore the leafy grounds of the lodge, take a swim in the pool or try some of the optional activities available.

DAY 2: Arusha – Tarangire National Park - Manyara BLD

On the morning of day two, we depart from our safari lodge near Arusha after breakfast.

We travel via Arusha town, stopping to shop for last minute supplies before embarking on our exhilarating African safari experience!

Our first game viewing destination is Tarangire National Park where we pause for lunch before taking an exciting afternoon game drive.

Tarangire Park is an incredibly diverse area, boasting a unique mix of habitats within the northern safari circuit.

DAY 3: Manyara National Park – Tanzania BLD

Today starts with a morning coffee, before we make our way to Lake Manyara National Park for an early morning game viewing drive.

This scenic national park protects the north-western part of Lake Manyara, running along the base of the Great Rift Valley's western escarpment.

The shallow soda lake attracts over 380 bird species and is known for its large flamingo flocks. This compact and diverse game park is also home to the elusive tree-climbing lion.

After lunch and rest at the lodge during the heat of the day, we head out on a short afternoon game drive in Manyara National Park.

DAY 4: Manyara – Ngorongoro Crater – Serengeti – Tanzania BLD

Day four of this Tanzania Wildlife Lodge Tour starts with an early breakfast, before driving to the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater of Tanzania.

We ascend the crater wall on our scenic drive to the entrance of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Next we explore the floor of the game-rich crater, stopping for lunch in this wildlife haven.

The Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the Big Five of Africa (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo).

After our rewarding wildlife experiene in the world's largest unflooded caldera, we drive from the Ngorongoro Crater to the world-famous Serengeti National Park, enjoying some game viewing en route.

DAY 5: Serengeti – Tanzania BLD

We spend a full day embarking on game viewing activities in Serengeti National Park.

Starting with an early morning game drive after breakfast, we have lunch back at the safari, before venturing into the bush on foot.

The Serengeti Plains are renowned for the massive annual wildebeest migration and the large resident predator population, especially big cats.

The Serengeti Park, the most popular and oldest national park in Tanzania, is the iconic wildlife setting of untamed Africa.

A UNESCO World Heritage site and the 7th Natural Wonder of the World, Serengeti is one of the most important game reserves in Africa.

DAY 6: Serengeti – Lake Manyara – Tanzania BLD

On day six we take a morning game drive through Serengeti, retracing our steps as we make our way out of this superb East African wilderness area.

Along the way south we stop for lunch, game viewing as we drive through the game-rich Ngorongoro Conservation Area of Tanzania.

DAY 7: Lake Manyara - Arusha B

Our final day kicks off with breakfast, before we explore the lively town of Mto-wa-Mbu.

We pause in Mto-wa-Mbu to do some curio shopping and take last minute photographs, before we return to Arusha where this Tanzania Wildlife Lodge Tour ends.

Tour Accommodation:

On this Tanzanian Safari we stay at mid-range and high-end lodge accommodation by typical African standards.

Accommodation is situated either in national parks, on riverbanks, or in other places of interest. Accommodation will be in a mix of lodges, chalets and tented camps with en-suite bathrooms.

Some of the lodges feature swimming pools and/or bar areas. On this combined tour camping and accommodated safari clients travel together in a group, with meals prepared by the guide at camp.

Please Note:

This Tanzania Wildlife Lodge Safari is also available as a camping safari - see Tanzania Wildlife Camping Safari.

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East African Migration Safari

2012-04-17T15:50:22Z

Summary of this Exclusive Budget Safari

This East Africa Migration Safari explores some of Africa's top game parks in game-rich Kenya and Tanzania.

Highlights on this combination camping and lodge safari include:

Tarangire National Park
Lake Manyara National Park
Serengeti National Park
Ngorongoro Crater
Masai Mara
Amboseli National Park

This exclusive budget safari is a once-in-a-lifetime wilderness and wildlife journey through untamed Africa!

Itinerary for this Exclusive Budget Safari

DAY 1: Arusha – Tanzania D

This East Africa Migration Safari starts in the town of Arusha, gateway to the well-loved Northern Tanzanian Safari Circuit.

The remainder of day one is free for you to relax and get ready for our journey through Kenya and Tanzania.

A pre-departure meeting is held over dinner, when your tour guide will inform you of what to expect over the next two weeks on safari. Your guide will also be able to tell you about the wildebeest migration and answer any questions that you may have about this spectacular wildlife phenomenon.

DAY 2: Arusha – Tarangire National Park - Manyara BLD

On the morning of day two, we depart from our safari lodge near Arusha after breakfast.

We travel via Arusha town, stopping at the market to shop for last minute supplies before embarking on our exhilarating African safari experience!

Our first game viewing destination is Tarangire National Park, where we pause for lunch before taking an exciting afternoon game drive.

Tarangire Park is an incredibly diverse area, boasting a unique mix of habitats within the northern safari circuit.

After game viewing in Tarangire Park we make our way to Lake Manyara and our next overnight stop.

DAY 3: Lake Manyara National Park – Tanzania BLD

After breakfast today we head into Lake Manyara National Park for a full day of game viewing.

This scenic national park protects the north-western part of Lake Manyara, running along the base of the Great Rift Valley's western escarpment.

The shallow soda lake attracts over 380 bird species and is known for its large flamingo flocks. The compact and diverse Manyara National Park is also home to the elusive tree-climbing lion.

DAY 4: Manyara – Ngorongoro Crater – Serengeti – Tanzania BLD

Day four of this Tanzania Wildlife Lodge Tour starts with an early breakfast, before driving to the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania.

We ascend the crater wall on our scenic drive to the entrance of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Next we explore the floor of the game-rich crater, stopping for lunch in this wildlife haven.

The Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the Big Five of Africa (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo).

After our rewarding wildlife experiene in the world's largest unflooded caldera we travel from the Ngorongoro Crater to the world-famous Serengeti National Park, enjoying some game viewing en route.

Entering the vast Serengeti Park we drive through the scenic Southern Plains that the Serengeti is best known for, with their rolling open savannahs and rocky outcrops.

Day 5: Serengeti National Park - Seronera BLD

Today we embark on a full day of game viewing in the Seronera section of the Serengeti Park.

Seronera is one of the three main areas of the Serengeti and it is here that the headquarters of the national park are located. This central region is the most accessible part of the game park.

The Seronera is the iconic area of Serengeti typically seen in African wildlife documentaries - its sweeping grassland plains, teeming with wild animals.

The Seronera River is the major source of water in the Serengeti, attracting large numbers of animals year round thus ensuring superb game viewing. This is also a particularly good area for sighting lion and cheetah, along with the most elusive of Africa's big cats, leopard.

Days 6: Serengeti National Park - Ikoma BLD

Driving through the vast and scenic Serengeti Park we head further north towards the Ikoma area, renowned for its resident population of non-migratory wildlife. We explore this watery, more thickly vegetated part of Serengeti in search of its wild animals.

We stop for lunch and a rest at our safari camp, before embarking on a thrilling night game drive within the Ikoma Wildlife Management Area.

Days 7: Serengeti National Park - Ikoma BLD

This morning we have the opportunity to take an exhilarating walking safari in the untamed bush. A game ranger accompanies us on the bush walk to experience the wilderness up close.

Taking a game walk is the ultimate African safari experience!

We return to camp for lunch and spend the afternoon relaxing and enjoying the African bush surroundings.

Day 8: Ikoma – Masai Mara BLD

We leave the spectacular Serengeti Park behind this morning and continue north into neighbouring Kenya.

Crossing into game-rich Kenya we make our way to the famous Masai Mara National Park.

The unique Masai people are the traditional inhabitants of this area. The Masai are nomadic herders that still follow their traditional lifestyle and customs.

We will encounter the local Masai people, who are permitted to graze their cattle in the Masai Mara area. The Masai Mara Park encompasses around 1500 km² of various wild habitats, including riverine forests along the banks of the Mara and Talek Rivers, acacia forests and open savannah plains.

Days 9: Masai Mara National Park BLD

Day nine is spent game viewing in the world-famous Masai Mara National Park.

The Mara is home to a wide variety of wild animals, including the Big Five of Africa (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and black rhino); as well as cheetah, zebra, wildebeest, giraffe, jackal, topi, gazelle and impala antelopes.

Masai Mara is best known for the massive annual wildebeest migration and its exceptional big cat population. The rivers of Masai Mara are inhabited by numerous hippos and crocodiles and the game park hosts an abundance of birds.

Day 10: Masai Mara - Nairobi BL

After breakfast today we travel to the bustling capital city of Kenya, Nairobi.

In the afternoon there is free time to explore this interesting and vibrant East African city. Nairobi is a cosmopolitan city with a compact and lively central business district worth visiting.

Day 11: Nairobi – Amboseli National Park BLD

On day 11 of this East Africa Migration Safari we have time to explore Nairobi after breakfast and stock up on supplies.

Next we drive south to Amboseli National Park, located on the Kenya-Tanzania border, stopping for lunch en-route. Arriving at Kenya's second most popular game park (after Masai Mara) we settle in at our safari camp and unwind after our drive.

Day 12: Amboseli National Park BLD

Today we venture into the striking Amboseli National Park for a full day of game viewing.

Amboseli Park is famous for close-up elephant encounters with its large elephant bulls. The rolling lush plains of Amboseli flanked by towering Mount Kilimanjaro, make for the perfect safari photo, especially of the impressive elephant bulls with their big tusks.

Day 13: Amboseli - Arusha BLD

This morning we enjoy a leisurely breakfast, before continuing our journey back into Tanzania.

We pass though the town of Moshi, gateway to Kilimanjaro National Park, along the way to our next stop, Arusha. The last overnight safari lodge is located near Kilimanjaro International Airport for catching your onward flight tomorrow.

Day 14: Arusha B

The East Africa Migration Safari through Kenya and Tanzania ends after breakfast this morning.

Tour Accommodation

Camping Safari:

Camp at designated campsites inside a National Park, or on riverbanks, or in other places of interest.

All campsites feature shared ablution facilities with showers, flush toilets and running water (unless otherwise specified in the itinerary). We try to avoid crowded campsites, preferring secluded spots, often supported by local community initiatives.

We camp two people per tent in spacious 3-person dome tents with 5 cm thick sleeping mattresses. On the accommodated nights guests stay in mid-range lodge accommodation (as described below).

Fully Accommodated Safari:

Stay in mid-range African standard lodge accommodation. The lodge accommodation is either in National Parks, on riverbanks, or in other places of interest.

The safari accommodation will be in a combination of lodges, chalets and tented camps. Most of these establishments feature a private bathroom with a shower and toilet, and some have shared ablutions. Some of the lodges and camps feature a swimming pool and/or bar area.

On this combined tour camping and accommodated safari clients travel together in a group, with meals prepared by the guide at camp.

Please Note:

This East African Safari is also available as a Fully Accommodated East African Tour. See full pricing for details.

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Tanzania Budget Lodge Safari Explorer

2012-04-17T15:48:31Z

Summary of this Budget Lodge Safari

Highlights on this Tanzania Budget Lodge Safari include:

Tarangire National Park
Lake Manyara National Park
Ngorongoro Crater
Lake Ndutu
Serengeti National Park
Lake Natron
Ol Doinyo Lengai

An affordable and rewarding wildlife and cultural exploration of Tanzania, one of East Africa's safari gems!

Itinerary for this Budget Lodge Safari

DAY 1: Arusha – Tanzania D

This Tanzania Lodge Safari starts in the town of Arusha, gateway to the well-loved Northern Tanzanian Safari Circuit.

If time allows you can explore the leafy grounds of the lodge, take a swim in the pool or try some of the optional activities available.

DAY 2: Arusha – Tarangire National Park - Manyara BLD

On the morning of day two, we depart from our safari lodge near Arusha after breakfast.

We travel via Arusha town, stopping to shop for last minute supplies before embarking on our exhilarating African safari experience!

Our first game viewing destination is Tarangire National Park where we pause for for lunch before taking an exciting afternoon game drive.

Tarangire Park is an incredibly diverse area, boasting a unique mix of habitats within the northern safari circuit.

DAY 3: Lake Manyara National Park – Tanzania BLD

Today starts with a morning coffee and breakfast, before we make our way to Lake Manyara National Park for an early morning game viewing drive.

This scenic national park protects the north-western part of Lake Manyara, running along the base of the Great Rift Valley's western escarpment.

The shallow soda lake is attracts over 380 bird species and is known for its large flamingo flocks. This compact and diverse game park is also home to the elusive tree-climbing lion.

After lunch and a short afternoon game drive in Manyara National Park, we move on to our lodge at Karatu, in the foothills of the Ngorongoro Crater area.

DAY 4: Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area – Tanzania BLD

Day four starts with an early breakfast, before driving to the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater of Tanzania.

We ascend the crater wall on our scenic drive to the entrance of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Next we explore the floor of the game-rich crater, stopping for lunch in this wildlife haven.

The Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the Big Five of Africa (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo).

Returning to our safari lodge in the afternoon we have time to relax and unwind after our rewarding wildlife experiene in the world's largest unflooded caldera.

DAY 5: Ngorongoro Conservation Area – Lake Ndutu – Tanzania BLD

This morning, we pass through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, travelling to our safari lodge at Lake Ndutu.

The woodlands and plains surrounding Lake Ndutu draw numerous wild animals during the migration season.

Located in the south-eastern part of the Serengeti ecosystem, our overnight lodge is nestled in dense indigenous vegetation, attracting an array of birds and other wild animals to your doorstep.

After lunch at the lodge we embark on an afternoon game drive in the Lake Ndutu wilderness area.

DAYS 6: Lake Ndutu – Serengeti National Park – Tanzania BLD

Our game drive today takes us towards the world famous Serengeti National Park in northern Tanzania.

We arrive at our safari camp in time for lunch, followed by some free time to settle in and rest during the heat of the typical African day.

Later in the day we set off on an evening game drive in Serengeti Park, returning to camp for dinner.

DAY 7: Serengeti – Tanzania BLD

We spend a full day game viewing in Serengeti National Park.

The Serengeti Plains are renowned for the massive annual wildebeest migration and the large resident predator population, especially big cats.

The Serengeti Park, the most popular and oldest national park in Tanzania, is the iconic wildlife setting of untamed Africa.

A UNESCO World Heritage site and the 7th Natural Wonder of the World, Serengeti is one of the most important game reserves in Africa.

The Serengeti is home to lion, leopard, zebra, Thompson gazelle, impala, Grant’s gazelle and buffalo. This vast Tanzanian game park is dominated by open grassland, dotted with isolated granite hills and acacia woodlands.

DAY 8: Serengeti – Lake Natron – Tanzania BLD

This morning after breakfast, we drive into the northern part of the Serengeti Park, towards Klein’s Gate.

We leave the Serengeti Plains behind, entering the Masai region of Loliondo. From this region we head to Lake Natron and Ol Doinyo Lengai (“The Mountain of God”) – an active volcano which last erupted in 2007.

DAY 9: Lake Natron BLD

We spend the day exploring the fascinating area around Lake Natron, a sanctuary for thousands of lesser flamingo and one of the most important flamingo breeding grounds in the world.

Activities today include taking a walk to a nearby waterfall, visiting a traditional Masai village and Lake Natron to see the flamingos.

DAY 10: Lake Natron - Arusha B

We enjoy a leisurely breakfast this morning, before driving back to Arusha where our Tanzania Budget Lodge Safari comes to a close.

Tour Accommodation:

On this Tanzanian Safari we stay in mid-range lodge accommodation by typical African standards.

Accommodation is situated either in national parks, on riverbanks, or in other places of interest. Accommodation will be in a mix of lodges, chalets and tented camps with en-suite bathroom facilities.

Some of the lodges feature swimming pools and/or bar areas.

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3-Day Kruger Walking Safari

2012-04-13T07:45:57Z

Summary of this Hiking Tour

A unique Kruger Budget Safari offering full-length morning bush walks in Greater Kruger Park.

Highlights on this Kruger Walking Safari include:

Thrilling night game drives in Greater Kruger Park.
Chalet accommodation in Klaserie Private Game Reserve.
Guided game walks with trained rangers in Big Five Klaserie.
Morning and afternoon game viewing drives in Greater Kruger.

Explore the exclusive Klaserie Game Reserve, sharing unfenced borders with Kruger National Park, on game drives and on foot!

Itinerary for this Hiking Tour

Day 1: Johannesburg to Greater Kruger Park – South Africa

This Kruger Park Walking Safari departs from selected pick-up points in the Johannesburg International Airport and Pretoria area.

Our Budget Kruger Safari leaves the City of Gold, Johannesburg, at about 06.00am and heads towards the famous Greater Kruger Park.

In the afternoon we embark on our first exhilarating game drive in a private concession of the Big Five Kruger Park wilderness area.

Our game drive takes us closer to the wild animals in Klaserie, where the animals are relatively used to the presence of safari vehicles. We generally get within 5 to 10 metres of the big game from the safety of our 4x4 Toyota Landcruiser.

We stop for a light lunch at about 3.00pm, before continuing to our safari camp.

In the evening we enjoy dinner at camp under the stars followed by a thrilling night game drive in Greater Kruger.

Day 2: Greater Kruger Park – South Africa

Day two starts early with morning coffee and a light breakfast. At about 6.00am we set off on our first exciting game walk or game viewing drive in the bush.

After our two to four hour bush walk we return to the safari camp for a rest and some brunch at around 11.00am.

In the mid-afternoon we gather for tea and a light lunch served at the bush camp.

At about 4.00pm we head off on an afternoon game drive in Greater Kruger Park, stopping for sundowners in the bush. The game drive lasts into the evening becoming a night drive en route back to the safari camp. The open 4x4 safari vehicles allow for 360-degree views, providing excellent photographic and video opportunities.

Night drives give you the chance to see nocturnal animals stirring, particularly leopards. With some luck you might even spot some of the predators, including lion and leopard hunting at night.

Powerful spotlights are used to search for nocturnal animals on the game drives. The wide variety of wild animals uncommonly sighted during the day; include hyena, aardvark, bat-eared fox, porcupine, bush babies, bushbuck, mongoose, genet and nocturnal birds, such as owls and nightjars.

Returning from our invigorating night game drive we share stories from our day in the bush over drinks at the camp bar.

Dinner is served at 8:00pm followed by an evening of relaxation, enjoying drinks, tea or coffee around the campfire.

Walking in Klaserie Game Reserve

This unique Kruger Safari offers full-length morning bush walks ranging from two to four hours (depending on levels of fitness). Each Kruger Walking Safari starts off with a comprehensive demonstration on how to behave when encountering animals in the bush.

Qualified rangers lead our Walking Safaris in Greater Kruger, sharing their knowledge of animal spoors, vegetation and the ecology of the wilderness area. The rangers have undergone intensive training specializing in ways of approaching and responding to dangerous wildlife.

Bush walks not only offer the thrill of facing larger mammals on foot, but also give you the chance to gain insight into the smaller creatures and delightful details of the African bush. Our game rangers will point out various animal tracks and interesting features of the bush, as well as explaining the nocturnal movements of animals.

Walking in the game park gives you a real feel for the African bush as you immerse yourself in the smells and sounds of the untamed wilderness.

Exploring Klaserie on foot brings you closer to the fascinating details of the bush that go unnoticed on game drives, giving you a chance to truly appreciate nature. The Kruger Walking Safari offers a unique and unmatched wildlife experience of a lifetime.

Day 3: Greater Kruger to Johannesburg – South Africa

On the final day of this Kruger Walking Safari we wake early for our morning coffee and a light snack, before embarking on a game viewing walk.

After our bush walk in Greater Kruger Park we return to our camp for brunch.

This Budget Kruger Tour departs from Klaserie Reserve at around midday, ending back in Johannesburg at about 6:00pm today.

About Klaserie Game Reserve in Greater Kruger Park:

This South African Walking Safari visits the exclusive Klaserie Private Game Reserve in the Greater Kruger Park area.

The privately owned Klaserie Game Reserve falls within Greater Kruger Park, sharing unfenced boundaries with Kruger National Park proper and the Timbavati Reserve. Sharing unfenced borders with Kruger Park means that the abundant wildlife roams freely between these Big Five game parks.

Klaserie Park, known for its excellent game viewing, covers 60 000 hectares of unspoiled wilderness on either side of the Klaserie River.

The main advantage of visiting Klaserie Park is that access to the wilderness area is limited to guests staying at the handful of intimate safari lodges within the private game reserve, ensuring an uncrowded and exclusive safari experience.

Klaserie offers a unique safari adventure, free from the stresses of modern living and far away from the crowds of tourists.

We explore the vast wilderness of Greater Kruger on game drives and bush walks in the Klaserie, which encompasses a variety of habitats hosting a wide array of wild animals and birds.

About the Safari Camp:

Our safari camp offers an authentic African bush experience in the Klaserie Game Reserve of Greater Kruger.

The safari camp is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, offering a comfortable bush experience in an genuine African setting.

A perk of staying at this small safari camp is that the game viewing activities can be tailored to your specific needs. For example, if the guides hear lions roaring near the camp at night, they will often knock on your door to check if you would like to venture into the bush and look for them.

Camp facilities include a main lounge with two comfortable sitting areas and a library. The dining room has a large table for sharing meals together and there is an outdoor boma area with a campfire. The boma is an ideal place for sipping your morning coffee and unwinding with evening drinks.

Guests will also experience a traditional South African braaivleis (barbecue) prepared over the open fire in the boma.

The safari camp features a lovely swimming pool with a deck, where guests can cool off and relax in the hot summer months.

The main camp area has power points for recharging electronic devices, but the chalets are simply fitted with lanterns to add to the bush experience.

Tour Accommodation:

Accommodation on this Kruger Walking Safari is in a variety of chalets, ranging from family units to twin-share chalets.

There is also a charming tree house if you would like to sleep under the stars in this authentic bush setting. The tree house sleeps two guests in twin beds and has an outside bathroom and shower.

Of the five chalets two are en-suite family units consisting two rooms furnished with a double bed and twin beds. The family units have a dividing wall and are suitable for families with two adults and children under 16 years.

Two of the chalets at camp feature double beds suitable for couples, one with an en-suite bathroom and the other with an en-suite toilet and outside shower.

The remaining chalet is fitted with twin beds catering for two guests and has an en-suite toilet with an outside shower.

The en-suite facilities in the chalets lead onto the rooms with open doorways and are thus suited to those familiar with travelling together.

Please Note:

Clients can opt to only go on game drives on this Kruger Safari by arrangement.

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Masai Mara & Gorillas East African Safari

2012-04-04T14:02:13Z

Summary of this Camping Overland Tour

A unique Masai Mara & Gorillas East African Safari at an affordable price!

Highlights on this East African Camping Safari include:

Game viewing in Kenya's Masai Mara Game Reserve.
Visiting Kenya's Great Rift Valley Lakes, Naivasha & Nakuru.
African Mountain Gorilla Trekking in the wild, Uganda.
Scenic Lake Bunyoni & Queen Elizabeth Park in Uganda.

This unusual Masai Mara & Gorillas Safari combines the rare and unforgettable experience of trekking endangered mountain gorillas in the wild, with superb game viewing in scenic Kenya.

A once-in-a-lifetime East African journey!

Itinerary for this Camping Overland Tour

Day 1 Masai Mara National Reserve – Kenya

This East African Safari departs from Kenya's capital, Nairobi, travelling south west to the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve.

We enter this vast wilderness area offering some of the world's best game viewing to photograph the abundance of African wildlife found here.

Masai Mara is most famous for the massive Annual Wildebeest Migration, also called the Great Migration. During this annual migration 1.5 million wildebeest, zebra, gazelles and other antelope species stampede across the open plains in search of greener pastures.

The Masai Mara is home to a wide variety of wild animals, including Africa's Big Five - lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and rhino.

On our game drives in Masai Mara Park we keep a look out for cheetah, hyenas, giraffe, impala, topi, baboons, warthogs, zebra and in the Mara River hippos and crocodiles.

After our game viewing in Mara we visit the native Masaai people of Kenya for a unique cultural experience.

Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2 Masai Mara to Lake Naivasha – Kenya

Leaving the spectacular Masai Mara our East African Safari travels north through Kenya to scenic Lake Naivasha.

Freshwater Lake Naivasha, the highest of the Great Rift Valley lakes, attracts a variety of wild animals including giraffes, buffalo and numerous hippos. Over 400 different species of birds can be found at Lake Naivasha, among them the regal Fish Eagle.

From Naivasha you have the option of visiting nearby Hell’s Gate National Park, where you can try the popular activity of going game viewing by bicycle.

Optional Activities: Cycle hire in Hell’s Gate Park and High Tea at Elsamere.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 Nakuru National Park – Kenya

On day three we head to Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for the huge flocks of flamingoes drawn to the shores of its soda lake.

Lake Nakuru also attracts numerous waterbirds and the savannah area fringing the lake is home to black and white rhino, as well as antelopes, hippo and buffalo.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 Kampala – Uganda

We set off from Lake Nakuru making our way to the Uganda border, via the equator where we stop for the classic one foot in each hemisphere photo.

Our next stop is Kampala, Uganda’s capital and largest city, where we arrive later in the day.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 Kampala / Ngamba Chimpanzee Sanctuary – Uganda

Day five is free for you to explore Kampala, although most people visit the nearby Chimpanzee Sanctuary of Ngamba Island on an optional day trip.

The environmentally-friendly Chimpanzee Sanctuary is a non-profit organization, established in 1998 to conserve and rehabilitate orphaned chimpanzees.

Optional Activities: Ngamba Chimpanzee Excursion, Kampala Markets, Dinner Out.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6 Lake Bunyonyi – Uganda

Today we drive to picturesque Lake Bunyonyi in southwest Uganda. Lake Bunyoni is an ideal stopover en route to the rare mountain gorillas of Uganda, and we spend the night relaxing on the beautiful lakeshore.

This deep crater lake draws a high abundance of birds and is as such named Bunyonyi, meaning 'place of many little birds'.

The lake is well-known for its high density of otters, as well as the spectacular setting of the surrounding scenic mountains.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 - 9 Gorilla Trekking – Uganda

Next on our East African Safari we travel to Bwindi to see African mountain gorillas in the wild.

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to view this extremely endangered primate in its natural habitat.

Visiting the mountain gorillas helps to conserve the future of these gentle apes, as the money spent on trekking permits is used to protect the gorillas.

Community development projects play a central role in gorilla conservation, working with local communities to improve the relationship between local people and wildlife. This work is essential in ensuring the survival of the estimated 650 gorillas that remain - aiming to get communities to protect rather than poach the threatened mountain gorillas.

Gorilla Trekking Permits are extremely limited; calling for flexibility in our tour itinerary and viewing destination. The habitat of these African Mountain Gorillas spans man-made borders, with their home range falling in Uganda, Rwanda and the DRC (Democratic Republic of the Congo).

We generally visit the gorillas within the National Park in Uganda (Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Park), but this depends on the availability of trekking permits. If permits for the Uganda Park are not available then we will drive into Rwanda or the DRC for gorilla trekking, but travellers will be informed of this change prior to departure.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Please note: There are 3-days allocated to Gorilla Trekking, but only one-day is spent on the actual trek with the remainder of the days enjoyed at our base in Bunyonyi.

The extra days allow for the flexibility required to arrange trekking permits and to allow for larger tour groups to trek in smaller parties.

Day 10 Queen Elizabeth National Park – Uganda

After our unforgettable Mountain Gorilla Trekking experience we travel to the Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda's most popular game park.

The Queen Elizabeth Park hosts a rich variety of habitats, making it a biodiversity hot spot.

Around 95 mammalian and more than 600 different bird species inhabit this fertile wilderness area featuring two lakes.

We keep a look out for hippo, buffalo, elephant, leopard, lion and chimpanzees; as well as the famous volcanic features of the park.

Other wild animals found here include warthogs, rare sitatunga antelopes, giant forest hogs, horned Uganda kob and waterbucks.

Optional Activities: Kasinga Channel Sunset Cruise.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11 - 12 Jinja – Uganda

In the morning we venture back out into the bush on another game viewing drive in the scenic Queen Elizabeth Park of Uganda.

This afternoon we drive northeast to Jinja, the second largest city in Uganda.

Jinja is famous as the place where the Nile (or Victoria Nile) flows out of vast Lake Victoria beginning its 6695 km long journey to Egypt and finally the Mediterranean Sea. Once a fishing village Jinja became an important stop on the trade route, growing into the sizable town it is today.

Optional Activities: White Water Rafting.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13 Eldoret – Kenya

Crossing back into game-rich Kenya we visit Eldoret, the 5th largest city in this popular East African Safari country.

The region is geographically dominated by the Great Rift Valley, with Eldoret located at an impressive 2100 m above sea level. Due to the high altitude of Eldoret, the town has served as the training ground for several legendary Kenyan runners.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14 Nairobi – Kenya

On the final day of this Masai Mara & Gorillas African Safari we travel to Nairobi, the largest city in East Africa.

Although our Masai Mara & Gorillas Safari ends on arrival in Nairobi, most tour groups share an optional dinner out in the evening.

Optional Activities: Meal out in Nairobi.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

NB: The itinerary is flexible and can be changed without notice in order to accommodate the best possible viewing of the Gorillas. The Permit price to visit the Gorillas can also change without notice.

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East African Camping Safari - South

2012-04-04T13:56:50Z

Summary of this Camping Overland Tour

An incredible three-week East African Camping Safari from Nairobi to Victoria Falls.

Travel highlights on this scenic journey through game-rich East Africa include:

Explore Serengeti Park & the Ngorongoro Crater, on an optional wildlife trip.
Visit the Usambara Mountains & the quaint town of Karatu.
Take a beach trip to tropical Zanzibar Island off Tanzania.
Discover traditional Tanzanian culture and Mikumi National Park.
Relax on the idyllic beaches of warm and friendly Lake Malawi.
Game Viewing in Zambia's premier South Luangwa Park.

Experience the best of East Africa, from spectacular scenery to superb game viewing and unique cultures - at a great price!

Itinerary for this Camping Overland Tour

East African Camping Safari Highlights:

4-day camping trip to Serengeti Park & Ngorongoro Crater
Go to Tanzania's scenic Karatu & hike in Lushoto
Masai Mara Museum & Snake Park in Tanzania's Arusha
Enjoy Zanzibar Island's beaches & visit Stone Town
Relax on the tranquil shores of Lake Malawi
Go game viewing in Zambia's South Luangwa Park
Visit Victoria Falls on the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe

Day 1: Kenya - Nairobi To Arusha – Tanzania

Our southbound East African Budget Safari departs from Nairobi, the bustling capital of Kenya, driving south across the border into Tanzania.

On our way to the town of Arusha, we may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of Mt. Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest mountain.

This afternoon we prepare for the optional excursion to the world-famous Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater.

Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2 - 4: Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater – Tanzania

The next 4 days are set aside for the optional 3-night camping excursion into the Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater (included in Activity Package).

This area of Tanzania has one of the densest large animal populations in Africa. The Serengeti Park & Ngorongoro Crater excursion is in open topped 4x4 safari vehicles to help tackle the challenging side roads in these top game parks.

For those not visiting the Serengeti Plains and Ngorongoro Crater, this is the ideal chance to absorb some of the fascinating local culture.

Optional Activities: Various Serengeti & Ngorongoro Excursion packages, Lake Manyara game drives, day hiking & village tours, volunteer at educational project and many more various day trips.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Karatu – Tanzania

Today those that explored the Serengeti Park and Ngorongoro Conservation Area will meet up with the rest of the group at the safari truck in Karatu.

Karatu is only a stone’s throw away from the world-famous Serengeti Park & Ngorongoro Crater Area and here there will be time to share stories of the memorable African wildlife encountered in these top Tanzanian Game Parks. Game viewing in the Serengeti is always an unforgettable experience and one that will be shared time and time again.

Greet the locals with a "saitaa" in the picturesque town of Karatu, located in an area of Tanzania that has a cool climate and features lush green hills with pretty views, that attracted settlers and farmers. The slopes of the volcano and the lands surrounding Karatu town are covered in extensive rolling fields.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Lushoto – Tanzania

Next on this budget camping safari we drive to Lushoto, stopping in Arusha to visit the local Masai Mara Museum and the Snake Park along the way.

Lushoto is a major (yet small) town and the district centre, located in the Usambara Mountains, halfway between the scenic Tanzanian coast and game parks.

The popular pot plant Saintpaulia only grows wild in Tanzania, particularly within the Usambara Mountain region. Here you will have the chance to hike in the surrounding mountainous area, or just relax.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 - 9: Zanzibar Island – Tanzania

After an early morning wake up on day seven, we leave Lushoto and drive to Dar es Salaam on the east coast of Africa.

A local ferry will take us from Dar es Salaam to Stone Town, the capital of Zanzibar Island (included in Activity Package). We spend the first night in Stone Town exploring the historic and unique architecture of this culturally diverse town.

There are also spice and seafood markets to be explored in Stone Town. The following day we take a transfer to the northern part of Zanzibar Island where we will spend our time relaxing on the white sand beaches.

At Nungwi Beach in Zanzibar there are various activities available, as well as excursions to explore this tropical island more.

Optional Activities: Lunch & Dinner, Swimming with Dolphins, Scuba Diving, Snorkelling etc.

Meals: Breakfast x 3

Day 10: Zanzibar to Dar Es Salaam – Tanzania

Our action-packed East African Camping Safari leaves the beach paradise of Zanzibar Islands today. We catch a late ferry back to Dar es Salaam returning to our safari truck and camp.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 11: Dar es Salaam to Mikumi National Park – Tanzania

Today we set off for the Mikumi National Park, in Tanzania. Mikumi Park is home to lion, zebra, wildebeest, impala, buffalo, elephant and more.

Today we have the opportunity to enjoy an optional afternoon game drive in Mukumi National Park, Tanzania's 4th largest National Park.

Optional Activity: Afternoon game drive in Mikumi NP.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Iringa – Tanzania

We leave the humid Indian Ocean coastline of East Africa, traveling inland and up to Iringa.

Iringa is located in the tea growing highlands of Tanzania at 1550m above sea level, which means this pleasant town can get quite cool between June and August.

In the evening we enjoy a traditional Tanzanian experience, eating in a local Masai Hut.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13: Northern Lake Malawi, Chitimba Beach – Malawi

Departing from Iringa in Tanzania we cross into Malawi making our way to the northern beaches of Lake Malawi, via scenic mountain passes.

We descend to our next stop the small lakeside village of Chitimba. Here we get to relax on the sandy beaches of beautiful Lake Malawi and participate in optional activities.

If you are feeling more active then you can take a short hike to the 50m high Manchawe Falls covering a cave where locals hid from slave traders in colonial times.

Lake Malawi is known for its friendly locals and fresh fish, in addition to the excellent water activities at this scenic lake. The third largest and second deepest lake in Africa, Lake Malawi is an impressive inland body of freshwater that covers one fifth of Malawi.

Optional Activities: Hiking, Abseiling, Water sports etc.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14 - 15: Central Lake Malawi, Kande – Malawi

Next we take a short drive south along the idyllic shores of this African Great Lake to Kande Beach, near Kande Island. In Kande we have time to relax on the unspoiled white sand beaches and swim in the clear blue waters of Lake Malawi. There are plenty of optional water sports activities to choose from, as well as activities such as horse riding.

On day two at Kande Beach we take a guided walking tour of one of the local villages lead by a local resident. This cultural excursion (included in the tour price) gives us a chance to meet some of the friendly locals and get a glimpse of life in Malawi, the "Warm Heart of Africa".

Optional Activities: Scuba diving, windsurfing, fishing, canoeing, horse riding and craft shopping.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 16: Lilongwe – Malawi

Day 16 on the affordable East African Camping Safari sees us traveling to Lilongwe, Malawis capital and largest city. Here we visit the Lilongwe Wildlife Centre, Malawi’s only sanctuary for rescued, orphaned and injured wild animals.

The Wildlife Centre is set in 180 hectares of beautiful woodland, Lilongwe’s only protected wilderness.

Optional Activities: City Tour

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 17 - 18: South Luangwa National Park – Zambia

Early in the morning we drive to the South Luangwa National Park in neighbouring Zambia where we spend the next two nights at our safari camp right on the banks of the Luangwa River.

You can often see Hippo and other wild animals from the camp bar. The game park is known for its high concentration of leopards and hippos. Later this afternoon we enjoy a guided afternoon to sunset game drive.

The following morning you can take an optional morning game drive in South Luangwa Park and in the afternoon we visit the community run tribal textile project and a local village.

Optional Activities: Morning Game Drive and Game Walk in South Luangwa Park.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 19: Chipata – Zambia

We leave South Luangwa National Park today taking a relatively short drive through to Chipata where we will relax in the afternoon. Zambia is truly African and an adjustment from the more western ways of Southern Africa.

There are many rural villages and farming communities dotting the lush vegetation of this unique African country.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 20: Lusaka – Zambia

The journey towards the bustling Zambian capital of Lusaka takes us along an interesting route. If we arrive on time, and on a week day, there may be opportunity to visit one of the interesting local markets of Lusaka.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 21: Zimbabwe – Victoria Falls

We drive from Zambia's Lusaka, across the Zimbabwean border and on to Victoria Falls.

This exhilarating East African Budget Safari south ends on day 21 at Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. We highly recommend spending a few extra days here after the safari ends to participate in some of the adventure activities available and to witness the mighty Victoria Falls!

White water rafting is always popular, but you can also walk with Lions, visit the Elephants or take a scenic flight over Victoria Falls.

Optional Activities: Dinner out in Victoria Falls

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Please Note:

This southbound East African Camping Safari is also available in the opposite direction as the East African Camping Safari - North, starting in Victoria Falls and ending in Nairobi.

This East African Camping Safari - South is also available as an Accommodated Safari - the East African Budget Safari - South.

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East African Camping Safari - North

2012-04-04T13:52:35Z

Summary of this Camping Overland Tour

A memorable three-week East African Camping Safari from Victoria Falls to Nairobi.

Travel highlights on this scenic journey through East Africa include:

Game Viewing in Zambia's premier South Luangwa Park.
Relax on the idyllic beaches of warm & friendly Lake Malawi.
Discover traditional Tanzanian culture and Mikumi National Park.
Take a beach trip to tropical Zanzibar Island off Tanzania.
Visit the Usambara Mountains & the quaint town of Karatu.
Explore Serengeti Park & the Ngorongoro Crater, on an optional wildlife trip.

Experience the best of East Africa, from spectacular scenery to superb game viewing and unique cultures - at an affordable price!

Itinerary for this Camping Overland Tour

Day 1: Victoria Falls to Lusaka – Zambia

This East African Camping Safari departs from Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.

One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls is considered the largest sheet of falling water in the world.

We head to Livingstone on the Zambian side of Vic Falls on day one, continuing to Lusaka from there.

Our drive to Lusaka, the lively capital of Zambia, takes us into a more sub-tropical region, along roads that become a little rougher as we travel.

Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Chipata – Zambia

On day two we have a long, but scenic drive ahead of us, as we journey to Chipata, gateway to the South Luangwa Park.

We pass through lush countryside landscapes and cross some rivers on our way to Chipata.

Travelling into Zambia is a truly African experience, which is completely different from visiting more western destinations, even within Southern Africa.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: South Luangwa National Park – Zambia

Leaving Chipata early in the morning we make our way to South Luangwa National Park, a world-renowned wildlife sanctuary.

We spend the next two nights of this East African Safari camping on the banks of the Luangwa River, the game park's major source of water.

The Luangwa River attracts an abundance of wildlife, with hippos and other wild animals often being sighted from the safari camp's bar.

In the afternoon we embark on a sunset game drive in the game-rich South Luangwa Park.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: South Luangwa National Park – Zambia

This morning you have the option of taking a game drive or a game walk in South Luangwa Park, famous for its walking safaris.

The national park is also well-known for its high concentrations of leopards and hippos.

We pause for lunch, before visiting a local Zambian village and the community operated textile project.

Optional Activities: Morning Game Drive and Game Walk.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Lilongwe – Malawi

On day five we cross into neighbouring Malawi and head to the Lilongwe Wildlife Centre in Lilongwe, Malawi's capital city.

The Lilongwe Wildlife Centre is the only wildlife sanctuary for rescued, orphaned and injured animals in Malawi. The Wildlife Centre is situated on a beautiful 180 hectare woodland, which forms the only protected area in Lilongwe.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 - 7: Kande Beach – Malawi

In the morning you have the option of taking a 2-hour city tour of Lilongwe, before we follow a scenic route to Kande beach, on Lake Malawi.

Lake Malawi is our next safari destination and we spend two days here, relaxing and participating in optional activities.

Optional activities at Lake Malawi include, horse riding, a variety of water sports and cultural excursions.

We take a guided village walk to meet the friendly Malawian people and see the local way-of-life.

Optional Activities: 2 hour morning city tour in Lilongwe, Water Sports, Horse Riding, Craft Shopping etc.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Lake Malawi's Chitimba – Malawi

Today we continue our jounery north through Malawi, travelling along the scenic shores of Lake Malawi.

Our last day in Malawi is spent at Chitimba Beach on the northern shores of this vast inland lake.

Here you can relax on the beach and enjoy the warm waters of Lake Malawi or take a short hike to the Manchawe Falls.

Optional Activities: watersports, abseiling etc.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Iringa – Tanzania

Crossing from Malawi into Tanzania we climb out of the Great Rift Valley.

On our drive we pass through some breathtaking mountain scenery and the vast tea plantations of the Tanzanian highlands.

Our overnight camp is located close to Iringa in the southern highlands. This evening we have dinner in a local Masai Hut, enjoying a real traditional Tanzanian evening.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Mikumi Park – Tanzania

From Iringa we drive to Mikumi National Park to the north.

Here you can embark on an optional afternoon game drive in Mikumi Park, home to lion, zebra, wildebeest, impala, elephant and buffalo

Optional Activities: Afternoon game drive in Mikumi Park.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Dar es Salaam – Tanzania

We leave the cool highlands of Tanzania today, making our way down to the warm Indian Ocean coastline.

Our next stop is the coastal city of Dar es Salaam, the name meaning 'house of peace' in Arabic.

Dar es Salaam is Tanzania's economic and trade centre, but Dodoma is the official capital city.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12 - 14: Zanzibar Island – Tanzania

Our safari truck stays behind in Dar es Salaam, while we catch a local ferry across to Zanzibar Island's capital, Stone Town.

On our first night in Zanzibar we explore the historical old quarter of Stone Town, admiring the unique architecture and Arabic influences. You can also visit the local spice and seafood markets to get a good taste of Zanzibar Island.

We transfer to the northern part of Zanzibar the next day. In the lush north we spend our days unwinding on the tropical beaches and enjoying various optional activities.

Optional Activities: Lunch & Dinner, Swimming with Dolphins, Scuba Diving, Snorkelling etc.

Meals: Breakfast x 3

Day 15: Lushoto – Tanzania

Today a local ferry takes us back to Dar es Salaam and our safari truck, bringing our Zanzibar Island trip to a close.

From Dar es Salaam our budget safari continues to Lushoto in the Usambara Mountains.

The small town of Lushoto lies at the halfway mark between Tanzania's coast and national parks. This major town serves as the district centre of the Usambara Mountain region.

Saintpaulia, a popular pot plant, is only found in the wild within Tanzania, especially in the Usambara Mountains.

In Lushoto you have the chance to take a hike in the surrounding area, or take some time out to relax and rest.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 16: Karatu – Tanzania

Karatu is our safari destination for the day. The drive to this quaint town takes us through scenic landscapes and the town of Arusha.

Karatu is situated on the Great Escarpment in a cool countryside area of lush hills and lovely views.

The landscape surrounding the town and the nearby extinct volcano of Ol Deani, is dominated by vast fields and farming lands.

Karatu is conveniently located a short distance from Lake Manyara and the world famous Serengeti Park & Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 17 - 19: Serengeti and Ngorongoro Excursion – Tanzania

The next four days of this East African Camping Safari are spent enjoying an optional 3-night wildlife excursion into the Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater.

These world-class game parks host one of Africa's most dense large animal populations. Our wildlife trip is conducted in open-topped 4x4 safari vehicles, designed for the more challenging side-roads in the national parks.

Both the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and the Serengeti National Park offer superb game viewing and spectacular African scenery!

For those opting not to visit the game parks, this is a great chance to immerse yourself in the unique local culture and explore the scenic area.

Optional Activities: Various Serengeti & Ngorongoro Excursion packages, Lake Manyara game drives, day hiking & village tours, volunteer at educational project and many more various day trips.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 20: Arusha – Tanzania

On day 20 our group meets up again in Arusha. Here we have time to catch up and swap tales about our safari adventures over the past few days.

This afternoon we go to the local Masai Mara Museum and Snake Park in Arusha.

Optional Activities: camel ride to local Masaai village.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 21: Nairobi – Kenya

We cross the border into Kenya on our final day, travelling towards Nairobi where our East African Camping Safari ends.

The tour is usually followed by an optional meal together, at one of Nairobi's excellent restaurants.

Optional Activities: Dinner out.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Please Note:

This northbound East African Camping Safari is also available in the opposite direction as the East African Camping Safari - South, starting in Nairobi and ending in Victoria Falls.

This East African Camping Safari - North is also available as an Accommodated Safari - the East African Budget Safari - North.

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10 day Delta & Victoria Falls Budget Safari

2012-03-29T15:12:08Z

Summary of this Budget Camping Safari

This 10 day Delta & Victoria Falls Budget Safari is a limited participation tour providing assisted camping.

Highlights on this Budget Camping Tour include:

Visit Victoria Falls on the Zambian side.
Explore the pristine Okavango Delta in Botswana.
Go game viewing in Chobe Park, Botswana.
Encounter the traditional Kalahari bushman.
Game drive in Mahango Game Reserve.
Drive through the fertile Caprivi Strip of Namibia.

This Okavango Delta & Victoria Falls Safari is an excellent way to experience some of the top natural wonders, wilderness areas and game viewing in Southern Africa, at an affordable price!

Itinerary for this Budget Camping Safari

Day 1: Windhoek – San Village near Gobabis, Namibia (260 km) (LD) (camping)

You will be collected in Windhoek between 07:30 and 08:00 on a Friday morning at the start of this Delta & Victoria Falls Budget Safari.

We drive to our wilderness bush camp, which is based on a local farm in the Kalahari, near Buitepos Border, via the eastern village of Witvlei.

On arrival we first meet our host family before going to our camp site, meet our guides and pitch the tents. You are welcome to enjoy a relaxing afternoon, wait for the sun to set and enjoy a fire cooked dinner and the tranquillity of an evening in the remote wilderness of Namibia.

Day 2: San Village – Ghanzi, Kalahari, Botswana (245 km) (BLD) (camping)

We start Saturday with a morning bush walk where we learn more about the Bushman hunting techniques such as tracking and stalking.

The women and men will teach us about many edible plants, where to look for them and how they are used, e.g. contraceptives and healing. Go on a walk through the veld with a small clan of Bushmen local guides/family as they show you how they gather food, start fire with sticks, wind direction and get water from underground roots.

The game tends to concentrate on the farm and our chances of spotting different species or spoors are enhanced by the sharp eyes of the Bushmen local guides.

After lunch we leave, making use of the Trans Kalahari Highway, a relatively new road that provides an invaluable communication link between Namibia, Botswana and South Africa.

After completing the immigration formalities we continue, through rural Botswana to the town of Ghanzi, located in the centre of cattle farming Botswana. Ghanzi is located almost in the middle of the Kalahari Desert and was almost unknown before the Trans Kalahari Highway.

Day 3: Ghanzi – Guma / Okavango Delta, Botswana (450 km) (BLD) (camping)

An early start and a quick stop in Ghanzi to collect any last minute supplies before continuing west, traversing the linear dunes of the Kalahari and passing through small towns along the way.

A change in vegetation heralds our arrival on the very western edge of one of the natural wonders of the world, the Okavango Delta. Here we turn north for some way before again pointing our wheels west as we enter the Delta proper.

We see our first glimpse of the crystal waters through the lush vegetation and we make our camp on the banks of a pristine African lagoon.

Day 4: Okavango Delta, Botswana (BLD) (camping)

We are in the territory of the River People, so this morning we leave our vehicle behind and travel in a more appropriate fashion, first by motor-boat and then by traditional Mokoro (dugout canoe), deep into the Delta.

Mokoro’s will be our main form of transport. These amazing traditional craft are perfectly designed for the narrow waterways of the Okavango Delta and allow us to travel further into the Delta than if we were using more modern forms of transport.

Mokoro’s carry three people, two seated passengers and one driver. The driver stands in the rear of the canoe, (a real feat of balance), and uses a long wooden pole to propel and steer the Mokoro through the twisting channels. It really is the only way to truly experience the Okavango.

Back to camp in the late afternoon for another night by the Okavango waters.

Day 5: Okavango Delta – Caprivi, Namibia (350 km) (BLD) (camping)

Back on the road today, destination Namibia.

Passport formalities completed we go directly into the Mahango Game Reserve, a small but excellent park right on the edge of the Okavango River.

We game drive our way through Mahango and have the chance to spot rarely seen Namibian species such as roan antelope the majestic sable antelope.

Our camp for tonight is just outside the Game Reserve, and we are again beside the Okavango River, but this time the main river, on its journey from the Angolan highlands, through the pan handle to waters end, the delta.

Day 6: Caprivi, Namibia – Chobe National Park,Kasane, Botswana (500km) (BLD) (camping)

We continue our drive along The Caprivi Strip of Namibia. This strip of land is a long narrow stretch of territory running along Botswana’s northern border. It is a landscape of broadleaf forest with many small communities dotted along our route.

We near the end of our long transit of the Caprivi region, arriving in Namibia’s easternmost town, Katima Mulilo.

A short break here before crossing back across the border into Botswana. The road takes us directly into the world famous Chobe National Park. Chobe has the world’s largest population of African Elephants and the chances of seeing some big game are very good as we transit through the park to the small town of Kasane.

We make camp in the grounds of a local lodge, right on the banks for the Chobe River.

Day 7: Chobe National Park, Kasane, Botswana (BLD) (camping)

An early hot drink before we head off on a leisurely game drive, exploring the wonders of the Chobe National Park by road. Game drives within the park offer the opportunity to view abundant elephant and other big game species up close, and there is also the possibility of an encounter with one of the large predators.

Time to relax over lunch at our camp before joining a river boat cruise, back into Chobe Park. From the boat we will have the chance to see a huge amount of wild game, both on the river banks and in the waters swirling around us.

Crocodiles and hippos abound in the forbidding Chobe River and on the land side there is often a kaleidoscope of different antelope and species such as elephant, buffalo and even the Big Cats come to the river banks for their sundowner drink. The Chobe River provides a very broad habitat for bird life and it is possible to see many beautiful species of our feathered friends.

Day 8: Kasane – Livingstone, Victoria Falls, Zambia (100 km) (BL) (camping)

Another border crossing today, we drive out of Kasane to Kazangula ferry depot and complete our Botswana exit formalities.

We cross the Chobe on the local ferry boat, enter Zambia and from here it is a short drive to the town of Livingstone. Named after the famous British missionary and explorer Dr. David Livingstone, the town is a bustling African centre. We make our camp on the banks of the Zambezi River and have time to explore the town and to visit the mighty Victoria Falls.

The views of the waterfall from the Zambian bank are fantastic; there are many small paths and lookout points to explore.

This afternoon your guide will help you organise the many optional activities available in Livingstone, Zambia. These include white water rafting, bungi jumping, other excursions on the river and scenic flights to mention but a few.

Dinner will be in a local restaurant at your own expense.

NB: All extra activities are subject to availability and are done at the clients own risk and expense.

Day 9: Livingstone, Zambia (B)

This is a free day for you to explore the Victoria Falls area of Zambia or to take part in optional activities. It’s a wonderful opportunity to relax a bit after your trip.

For some of you, this will be your final night on the Delta & Victoria Falls Budget Safari and what a fantastic place Victoria Falls is to enjoy the last evening with your group.

Lunch and dinner today, are not included in the price of the trip.

(We recommend staying with the trip for this day and if you are departing from Livingstone, that you fly tomorrow.)

Day 10: Livingstone – Rundu, Namibia (700 km) (BLD) (camping)

We say farewell to all the travellers flying out today.

For those returning to Windhoek, Namibia (extra cost) it is an early start and a long drive.

We are in transit only and will not be stopping to take in the sights along the way. We will traverse the Caprivi Strip and will spend the night near the small town of Rundu in northern Namibia.

We camp in the grounds of a lodge on the banks for the Okavango River, overlooking Angola on the far river bank.

Dinner tonight will be in the restaurant at the lodge and is included in the price of your transfer.

Day 11: Rundu – Windhoek (800 km) (BL)

Another early start for the long drive ahead.

We head south through Kavango Province, down through the towns of Grootfontein, Otjiwarongo and Okahandja before reaching our final destination, Windhoek.

There will be stops at some of the local woodcarving stalls as well as the market at Okahandja before arriving in the city.

You will be dropped off at your accommodation in Windhoek, bringing this Delta & Victoria Falls Budget Safari to a close.

Please Note:

This 10-day Delta & Vic Falls Safari ends in Livingstone, Zambia, OR you have the option of returning to Windhoek on day 11, at an extra cost (see full pricing for details).

Maximum group size on this tour is 14 travellers.
Transport for up to 8 people will be in a minibus and for 9 people and more in a Toyota bus / truck.
Itinerary is assisted comfortable camping with participation limited to only helping with the tents.

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