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Stone Town to Vic Falls

Sale!

Stone Town to Vic Falls

Was From $ 3,245 AUD
Now From $ 2,758 AUD
Sale!

Description

Embrace the wilds of Eastern Africa on a 16-day adventure. Track rhinos on foot, discover the winding alleyways of Stone Town, journey through epic landscapes in search of zebras and elephants, explore ancient Zimbabwean ruins and gaze at the sweeping plains of the savanna. With a local leader and crew on hand to sweat all the small stuff, you can focus on exploring. This is your chance to spot the Big Five and escape the chaotic pace of the city for the quiet of villages Africa’s pride lands.

Trip Name
Stone Town to Vic Falls
Last Updated
2024-04-14
Days
16
Capacity
22
Highlights
  • Join an expert guide to track rhinos on foot in Matobo National Park. Discover black and white rhinos and other game while learning about the cultural and spiritual importance of the many ceremonial sites, San paintings and rock formations.
  • Spot elephants, hippos, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, warthogs, wildebeest and impalas on not one, but three included 4WD safari game drives in Tanzania and Zambia.
  • Discover the magic of South Luangwa National Park on morning and afternoon 4WD safari game drives, and visit a workshop where local women transform poaching snare wire into jewellery to raise funds for conservation.
  • Explore the largest ruins in sub-Saharan Africa, the World Heritage-listed Great Zimbabwe, and discover the history and heritage of local communities with your knowledgeable local leader.
  • Choose from a range of optional activities at Victoria Falls to see the cascades the way you want, and maybe treat yourself to a helicopter ride.
  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust. Donations help employ a team of Community Guardians who collaborate with locals to find sustainable solutions to human-wildlife conflict and conservation in Southern Africa.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk. ROAD CONDITIONS AND INFRASTRUCTURE IN AFRICA: Roads in Africa are often in very poor condition, which makes it hard on our vehicles. Our vehicles are serviced regularly and are generally in good condition, but breakdowns can and do happen. Sometimes the going on this trip is quite tough, the distances covered fairly large and some of the roads and tracks are not exactly smooth or free from dust, but the rewards are exceptional. The travelling times indicated in our Essential Trip Information is just a rough guide and is dependent on various factors that may be outside our control, such as road conditions, weather and time spent at borders. DRIVE TIMES: The travel times listed in the day to day itinerary are a guide only. Please be aware that delays may occur and please be patient - it's all part of the experience afterall! Additionally, the travel times do not include time spent on game drives as these can vary with each departure.

Day 1 - Stone Town
Karibu! Welcome to Zanzibar. Today is a free day until the important welcome meeting at 6 pm. Filled with idyllic beaches, winding cobblestone alleyways and fragrant bazaars, Zanzibar has a colourful history – everything from slave traders to Arabian sultans and fruit exporters. The sight of traditional dhows sailing along the coast evokes what the island must have been like in Livingstone's day. The old part of Zanzibar's main city is known as Stone Town. The best way to see this exotic port town is on foot, exploring the markets, shops, mosques, palaces and courtyards. When the sun is setting, perhaps enjoy a sundowner from a bar overlooking the seafront, and a seafood curry at a local restaurant. Spend a night in Stone Town at a basic inn with double/twin-share rooms and access to wi-fi.
Day 2 - Mikumi National Park
Embrace an early start to catch a 7.30 am ferry to the mainland, then make tracks for Mikumi. Get a good look at the renowned Tanzanian landscape on the way, as this long drive is a great chance to soak up the scenery. Gaze out at vast plains dotted with baobab and tamarind trees and maybe catch a glimpse of some of the elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, lions and leopards that call the park home. When you arrive at your camp, your leader will show you the ropes (literally) and help you set up and get comfortable for your night in the tent.
Day 3 - Iringa
Wake up early this morning to head off on a 4WD game drive into Mikumi National Park with local expert guides. This less touristed park is home to impressive numbers of elephants, hippos, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, warthogs, wildebeest and impalas – and maybe even a predator! After, you'll drive to Iringa and set up camp on the grounds of a farmhouse on the outskirts of the settlement. The area is filled with natural bush land and native birds. Make the most of this rural setting by doing some stargazing before you retire for the night.
Day 4 - Chitimba
Enter Malawi this morning and travel to your campsite at Chitimba. Malawi, the ‘warm heart of Africa,’ is dominated by its lake, which covers almost a fifth of the country and provides a livelihood for many Malawian people. Fishermen, fish traders and canoe and net makers all ply their trade on Lake Malawi. A common sight is a fisherman in a bwato (a dugout canoe made from a hollowed tree trunk) fishing on the still lake at the break of day.
Day 5 - Lake Malawi
Travel from Chitimba to Kande Beach today, on the shore of Lake Malawi. There will be a chance to stop at a shop or market for any supplies you might need along the way. Enjoy a relaxing getaway from the commercialism and crowds with a few days on the lake’s more peaceful beaches. Your campsite at Kande Beach is right on the shore of Lake Malawi.
Day 6 - Lake Malawi
Enjoy free time today to soak up your idyllic surroundings. As well as chilling out on the lake’s sandy shores, make sure you take the opportunity to meet some local Malawians – easily some of the friendliest people in Africa! You can also hire canoes, bikes or pedalos (paddle boats) to enhance your time here.
Day 7 - South Luangwa National Park
Journey through southern Malawi and enter Zambia today, continuing to South Luangwa National Park. There will be border crossing formalities on the way, and a chance to stock up on goods or visit an ATM at a local shop or market. The concentration of animals around the Luangwa River and its lagoons is some of the highest in Africa, so when you arrive, take in the beautiful scenery and the abundance of wildlife, watching out for colourful birds and herds of elephants.
Day 8 - South Luangwa National Park
Rise early this morning, grab a light breakfast and get ready for an exhilarating morning game drive in a 4WD with a local guide. Then, you'll head back to the camp for an early lunch (as this is the hottest part of the day). Rest in the shade or perhaps take an optional village walk if you'd like a snapshot of daily life in the local community. Return to the park for another game drive in the evening, looking out for the local wildlife as the sun sets.
Day 9 - Petauke
After breakfast, you'll visit to a workshop where local craftswomen take snare wire recovered from poaching traps and transform it into jewellery inspired by the African bush. The women will show you around their purpose-built workshop and give you a chance to try coiling or hammering the wire yourself. For each sale made, a donation is given to anti snare patrols dedicated to the conservation of the region. After your visit, you'll jump back in the vehicle and head further south to Petauke.
Day 10 - Lusaka
This morning you'll be back on the road, heading for your next camp just south of Lusaka City. When you arrive, stretch your legs and take a stroll to discover the town on foot. Though it's fast developing, Lusaka retains a strong African feel, and the locals are usually up for a chat. Your local leader will also give you some insight into the area. Tonight, you're free to chill out under the stars at camp.
Day 11 - Harare
Travel to Harare today. The first part of your journey takes you to the border with Zimbabwe. After crossing and going through border formalities, you'll continue to Harare. There will be a chance to explore the town when you arrive, as well as stock up on whatever you need at a market or local shop.
Day 12 - Great Zimbabwe Ruins / Masvingo
This morning, it's onto Masvingo. This colonial settlement – the oldest in Zimbabwe – makes the perfect base for exploring the ruins of Great Zimbabwe. The ancient city, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, was first constructed in the 11th century and is believed to have been the seat of power for a monarch. Spend a few hours exploring this intriguing site before heading off to camp where your night is free to relax.
Day 13 - Bulawayo
Travel to Bulawayo today. Known locally as the 'City of Kings', Bulawayo is Zimbabwe's second largest city. There is some impeccable historical architecture to take in here, so feel free to walk around at your own pace when you arrive. Enjoy free time this afternoon to explore town or ask your local leader for some optional activities. You might like to browse some local markets or chat with the locals. The Natural History Museum and National Art Gallery are also worth checking out.
Day 14 - Bulawayo
Get ready for the experience of a lifetime today – tracking rhinos on foot with an expert guide! Matobo National Park, known for its black and white rhinos, is also home to other wildlife like klipspringers, leopards, warthogs and springhares. You'll learn all about these unique animals from your guide. You'll also gain insights into the local plants and trees, including wild pear and paperbark and discover San paintings and the fascinating rock formations. Matobo National Park is an important site of spiritual and cultural significance for the local people, and there are many places in the park where important ceremonies still take place.
Day 15 - Victoria Falls
Depart Bulawayo this morning and make the drive towards Victoria Falls. Stretching 1.6 km wide and falling 108 m into a narrow gorge below, the falls are a sight to behold. Although a visit to the falls themselves is optional, it's highly recommended. In the wet season, the spray created from this feat of nature can rise 400 m and can often be seen from far in the distance. It’s no wonder that the local name for Victoria Falls is Mosi oa Tunya, or the 'Smoke that Thunders'. Though dry season travellers should not despair! You’ll get an unobstructed view of the falls and the chance to see the islets in the river below. Your leader will take you to a local activity centre where a range of activities will be on offer.
Day 16 - Victoria Falls
With no activities planned for today, you are free to leave the camp at any time. That being said, you may like to try some of the optional activities on offer here, so it's recommended you schedule any flights for later in the day. If you would like to spend more time in Victoria Falls, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
16-05-202431-05-2024AUD $ 2,758-
30-05-202414-06-2024AUD $ 2,869-
13-06-202428-06-2024AUD $ 3,375-
27-06-202412-07-2024AUD $ 3,375-
04-07-202419-07-2024AUD $ 3,505-
11-07-202426-07-2024AUD $ 3,505-
18-07-202402-08-2024AUD $ 3,505-
08-08-202423-08-2024AUD $ 3,575-
15-08-202430-08-2024AUD $ 3,505-
22-08-202406-09-2024AUD $ 3,330-
05-09-202420-09-2024AUD $ 3,410-
03-10-202418-10-2024AUD $ 3,445-
17-10-202401-11-2024AUD $ 3,375-
07-11-202422-11-2024AUD $ 3,245-
28-11-202413-12-2024AUD $ 3,245-
12-12-202427-12-2024AUD $ 3,245-
20-02-202507-03-2025AUD $ 3,405-
20-03-202504-04-2025AUD $ 3,405-
17-04-202502-05-2025AUD $ 3,405-
01-05-202516-05-2025AUD $ 3,405-
29-05-202513-06-2025AUD $ 3,405-
12-06-202527-06-2025AUD $ 3,545-
26-06-202511-07-2025AUD $ 3,545-
10-07-202525-07-2025AUD $ 3,680-
17-07-202501-08-2025AUD $ 3,680-
31-07-202515-08-2025AUD $ 3,680-
14-08-202529-08-2025AUD $ 3,680-
28-08-202512-09-2025AUD $ 3,680-
11-09-202526-09-2025AUD $ 3,680-
25-09-202510-10-2025AUD $ 3,680-
09-10-202524-10-2025AUD $ 3,545-
30-10-202514-11-2025AUD $ 3,545-
20-11-202505-12-2025AUD $ 3,405-
04-12-202519-12-2025AUD $ 3,545-
18-12-202502-01-2026AUD $ 3,545-

Accommodation

Hotel (1 night),Camping with facilities (14 nights)

Transport

Overland vehicle

Map