To view our complete site if there is no menu on the left, click on our banner

 35 Day Gorillas and Southern Discoverer
Nairobi to Victoria Falls
(Trip Code: NV35 - 2011) Departs every 2^nd Sunday
Rate till 31 Dec 2011 Price R14 320 pp + Local payment US$705 pp Single Supp N/A

Frequently asked questions

This trip starts in Nairobi and travels through Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Malawi, and Zambia, finishing in Nairobi, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. The best of East Africa as well as the diversity that the more southern countries can offer you, sees you experience the rain forests, exploring the domain of the mountain gorilla, the cultural differences of the African people, the game of the best parks, the tranquil beauty of the spice island, Zanzibar, the vastness and changing faces of this magnificent continent. The trip is a combination of hard game viewing, quality leisure time, cultural exchange, enjoying what Africa throws at you and having a damn good time doing it!

In order to view the Gorillas we may do so in one of the countries bordering Uganda, I .e.. Rwanda or The Democratic Republic of Congo.

Please note that this trip departs Nairobi on a Sunday, early morning. Should you wish to spend extra time there an earlier arrival should be planned and additional accommodation booked.

Pre Departure Meeting: Held at departure point at 5:00pm the day before your departure.
Departure Point: Nairobi, Boulevard Hotel, Harry Thuku Road.
Check In Time: 8:45am
Departure Time: 9:30am
 

HIGHLIGHTS Masai Mara game Reserve Kampala Lake Bunyoni Lake Nakuru National Park Lake Naivasha Tanzania Serengeti National Park Ngorongoro Crater Kilimanjaro Zanzibar "Spice Island" Lake Malawi Lake Kariba Victoria Falls

DAY 01: Nairobi to Masai Mara game Reserve

We will depart from the Boulevard Hotel and leave the hustle and bustle of Nairobi and climb the escarpment to our first viewpoint stop over looking the Great African Rift Valley. Descending into the Rift valley we enter Masai land, and these habitual pastoralists are seen quite regularly on the side of the road as they tend their cattle. We will arrive at our campsite – Acacia Camp - early evening in time to enjoy sunset on the Masai Mara. (L, D)

DAY 02: Masai Mara

Game drives through the Mara find us looking for the infamous big 5 as well as giving us the opportunity to see this ‘ garden of Eden’ in a state nature intended it to be, huge plains, rolling hills and an abundance of game matched no where else on earth. Elephant, lion, cheetah, giraffe, zebra, waterbuck just to name a few of the animal that inhabit this wonderland. Sitting around a campfire and watching the sunset is the perfect way to finish a day’s game viewing in the Mara. (B, L, D)

DAY 03: Masai Mara to Nakuru

Departing the Masai Mara early we will pass through the third largest town in Kenya, Nakuru, where we will stop for the night to re supply and shop. (B, L, D)

DAY 04: Nakuru to Kampala

Today, we cross the border into Uganda and travel via the lakeside town of Jinja (the Source of the Nile) before reaching Kampala, Uganda's capital, for an overnight stay. Uganda is a small country of striking physical beauty. Its landscapes vary from the fertile green areas around the northern shores of Lake Victoria to the snow-covered Ruwenzori Mountains in the west and the semi desert parts of the north facing the border of Sudan.

The political instability that haunted Uganda over a period of years has had the positive effect of leaving the country free of the over commercialism so common in other parts of Africa. The current administration under President Museveni has devoted considerable effort and funds to regain Uganda's former glory as one of Africa's most prosperous and, from a tourist’s point of view, one of the most appealing and interesting countries to visit. (B, L, D)

DAYS 05 & 06: Kampala to Kisoro

After an early morning departure from Kampala we drive further west on into the depths of Uganda and arrive at our base in Kisoro. (B, L, D)

From our Kisoro base, depending on where the gorilla permits are available, and where the gorillas are located, we will be viewing them in either the Magahinga or Bwindi National Parks in Uganda, the Virunga National Park in the DRC or at Ruhengeri in Rwanda. Due to the nature of the gorillas and their habits, viewing cannot be guaranteed. The gorillas themselves can tend to move around the locality quite a distance and the trek can be quite arduous. The cost to trek the gorillas differs from park to park and can range from US$275 to US$375, per 1 hour viewing. There is usually a park entry fee as well of approx. US$15. There is also a cost for the local transport to take you to & from the starting point to trek the gorillas. This cost is normally US$10 to US$15 per person. Please note that Africa Travel Co is not in control of the price of gorilla permits and thereforee cannot be held responsible for any increases in fees levied by the relevant authorities. National parks usually allow clients who fail to see the gorillas, a second chance to re-trek the next day if time and availability allows or they may refund your trekking fee. This is purely at their discretion. Although this is the general situation, the respective National Parks authorities will not put this in writing to any tour operator. Again the respective park authorities say that you are paying to trek the gorillas, not view them. Africa Travel Co is considered to be the main tour operator within the overland industry and we have a very high success rate of getting in and actually seeing these magnificent animals.

Please note: This is an optional excursion and visas to the DRC and Rwanda can be obtained at the border.

The mountain gorilla (Gorilla Gorilla Berengei) of whom only about 600 still exist, is one of our closest living relatives, yet ironically, it is mankind that poses the greatest threat to its survival. To visit these noble creatures in there own environment is an experience you will never forget. Accompanied by a park guide and a bush cutter, we track these gorillas through the rain forest. The gorilla families have been habituated to tourists and their whereabouts are monitored daily by the guides and park officials.

It may be necessary to trek for quite a while through the dense forest vegetation (up to 5 hrs) in order to reach the family designated for your visit.

As gorillas are sensitive to human diseases, the park authorities will not allow anyone they consider to be in poor health to visit the gorilla groups and children under 15 years of age are not allowed to visit.

You need not feel that you are exploiting these animals - for years they have been ruthlessly hunted for their hands and heads, which have been sold as souvenir ashtrays and lampshades. In addition, large numbers have been killed whilst trying to stop poachers stealing babies for sale to zoos, where they have never lived long. As a result, the ever-growing number of tourists to see them is an important factor in their survival. The gorilla fees help to set up and finance patrols that are instrumental in protecting the gorillas from poachers and their lethal snares.

DAY 07: Kisoro to Lake Bunyoni
 

A short drive through arguably some of the most picturesque scenery in Africa brings us to lake Bunyoni. Lake Bunyoni is the deepest crater lake in Africa and is home to a large number of bird and fish species as well as otters. (B, L, D) DAY 08: Lake Bunyoni Today we have the whole day at leisure to enjoy the beauty of Lake Bunyoni. There is the option to swim, visit the local villages or just sit back, relax and enjoy the tranquil surrounds. A well deserved rest day! (B, L, D)

DAY 09: Lake Bunyoni to Kampala

After enjoying the peaceful surrounds of Lake Bunyoni we drive to Kampala for another overnight stay, and perhaps the chance to sample the nightlife. Today we will cross the equator for the second time and there will be ample opportunity for photos at the Equator crossing. (B, L, D)

DAY 10: Kampala to Jinja

Today we have the option to either white water raft the Nile or visit Ngamba Chimpanzee Sanctuary. For the adventurous, you will be collected from Kampala and transferred to Jinja where you will experience some of the best white water rafting in Africa. For the less adventurous, you will have the morning at leisure or the option to take a full day excursion to visit Ngamba Chimp Sanctuary before our departure to Jinja.

Our overnight camp is right on the edge of the Nile River where there is an abundance of resident bird life & some truly amazing photo opportunities from right outside your tent! (B, L, D)

DAY 11: Jinja to Nakuru

Today will be a full day driving back towards Kenya, we will cross the border before lunch and stop for supplies en route. Tonight we will overnight again in Nakuru. (B,L,D)

DAY 12: Lake Nakuru National Park

Today we move onto Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for the thousands of flamingo that inhabits the Lake's edge. The numbers vary depending on the level of the lake, and are more numerous when the water level is low. The Park has also been established as a sanctuary for black and white rhino, which are frequently seen in the Park, along with buffalo, giraffe, waterbuck, various antelope, leopard and the occasional hippo. After entering the park in the morning we will spend the rest of the day game driving. (B,L,D)

DAY 13: Lake Nakuru National Park to Lake Naivasha

Moving further east, we drive to Lake Naivasha where we make camp in peaceful surroundings beside the lake. The highest of the Rift Valley lakes, Naivasha lies at about 1880m again the lake is home to a multitude of bird life, pride of place must go to the African Fish Eagle. The afternoon is spent at leisure here and you have the opportunity (time permitting) to enjoy some optional excursions, such as a boat ride to the Crescent Island Game Sanctuary, Hell's Gate National Park or Elsamere, the retirement home of Joy Adamson ("Born Free"). (B,L,D)

DAY 14: Lake Naivasha to Nairobi

After breakfast, we leave Naivasha and return to Nairobi, arriving in the early afternoon. The truck will stop at the Boulevard Hotel for those staying there, and then continue to our campsite for the night. (B)

DAY 15: Nairobi to Arusha:

We depart Nairobi and drive south, crossing the border into Tanzania at Namanga and continue to Arusha. This is a pleasant town situated at the base of Mount Meru and is the starting point for your optional excursion to Ngorongoro Crater and/or Serengeti.

We conduct these excursions in locally operated Land Rovers, which are specially adapted for safari use. Depending on which option you choose, you will be away from the Arusha campsite for either one or two nights. (L, D)

DAY 16: Serengeti (Optional)

If you take up the two night/three day option you will depart Arusha in the morning with your vehicles and guides. The drive to the Serengeti National Park takes us through the Masai town of Mtu Wa Mbu (Mosquito River) and up into the Ngorongoro Reserve for a glimpse of the Ngorongoro Crater before descending down onto the plains of the Serengeti. The abundance of plains game in this area is truly astounding. The afternoon will be spent game viewing before setting up camp in the midst of the national park. With some luck we will be able to listen to the night time noises of the wildlife! (B,L,D)

DAY 17: Serengeti National Park to Ngorongoro Crater

After a full morning game drive in the Serengeti we will return to pull down camp and head back towards the Ngorongoro. Here we travel up to Ngorongoro Crater’s edge for our campsite for the evening. We suggest you pack your winter woollies as it can get very cold on the rim of the crater during night times.

For those taking the one night/two day option you will be collected from Arusha today in the afternoon and transferred to the town of Karatu for the evening. Tomorrow we will join the rest of the group for your Ngorongoro game drive. (B, L, D)

DAY 18: Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha

This morning we descend into the Ngorongoro Crater with its 600 metre walls and 20 kilometre width is a natural wonder, and offers a spectacular view from the rim. The true size of this caldera is only appreciated from the floor itself and the abundance of its animal inhabitants becomes apparent. It is home to nearly every species of African animal and offers a chance to view an incredible concentration of East African mammals, such as elephant, rhino, buffalo, hippo, lion, and plain’s game. After spending the full morning in the crater you will return to the campsite near Arusha for another night. Both optional excursions will follow the same schedule today. (B, L, D)

DAY 19: Arusha to Pangani

We leave Arusha and head towards the warm Indian Ocean. Travelling through the town of Moshi we cross the southern slopes of the highest mountain in Africa, Kilimanjaro. There is also an opportunity to view the snowy summit, weather dependant. This calls for a photo stop! Continuing south we pass the Usambara Mountains where we encounter vast sisal plantations on our way to Dar es Salaam. (B, L, D)

DAY 20: Pangani to Dar es Salaam

Today is another long days drive through beautiful lush scenery and palm trees. We sent up camp for the night. On arrival in Dar es Salaam, we spend the night at a beach hotel/campsite that is situated to the north of the city, and prepare for our departure to Zanzibar the next morning. (B, L, D)

DAY 21: Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar

A ferry from Dar es Salaam takes us to the "Spice Island", where we will spend three nights on this legendary island. Zanzibar is steeped in history and was one of the major starting points for most East African explorers in their quest for new lands. (B)

Please note: Our crew can organise accommodation for you whilst on Zanzibar, although from our experience our clients have felt the need to explore the island on their own. thereforee accommodation and food is for client’s own account whilst on Zanzibar.

DAYS 22 & 23: Zanzibar

History aside, Zanzibar offers a wealth of experiences for the visitor. Today the quiet streets of the old Stone Town still retain their Arabic influence, from the Medina-like shops to the palaces of the Sultans, who founded their vast empires on the spoils of the slave and ivory trade. The island is still famous for its spices, and tours around a spice plantation can be organised. Other options include a trip to the nearby Prison Island with its giant tortoises, and beautiful beaches to enjoy. Or perhaps you would enjoy the opportunity to hire a motorbike and explore the more remote areas of the island.

Zanzibar is a seafood lover’s paradise. Numerous restaurants offer a great variety of the freshest catch from the ocean - giant lobsters being a popular speciality. Alternatively, joining the locals for dinner in the waterfront market is an experience not to be missed. The market stalls offer an unusual selection of fast food African style at a very reasonable cost.

DAY 24: Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam

Leaving Zanzibar we take the ferry back to mainland for an overnight in Dar es Salaam. There may be an opportunity to visit one of the craft markets offering an extensive range of exquisite ebony products (where prices depend on your bargaining skills) and where the goods are made on-site. It is possible to observe the carvers at work and understand the skill, which has gone into making even the simplest trinket. (D)

DAY 25: Dar es Salaam to Iringa

Leaving Dar es Salaam we head for Iringa, passing through Mikumi National Park. It is possible to view a range of wildlife from the roadside, totally impervious to humans and their vehicles. Tonight we camp at the Old Farmhouse, a beautiful rustic campsite in rural Tanzania.Try oneof the signature Amarula Hotchocolates!(B, L, D)

DAY 26 to 29 Iringa to Lake Malawi

The next morning we head for Malawi passing through the beautiful tea plantations of Tikuku before exiting Tanzania. We enter Malawi through the border post of Songwe and head to Chitimba Beach campsite in Malawi for the night.

The newly democratic Malawi is a landlocked country with 20% of its total area being the beautiful Lake Malawi. The country's temperate climate allows for swimming in these clear blue fresh-waters all the year round. We travel the full length of western side of lake, stopping off at various bays and inlets for the next 4 days. This is the time for rest and relaxation. Lake Malawi offers a variety of water sports from various beachside campsites. Alternatively, you can go wandering along quieter shorelines where you can see the fishermen sorting their daily catch. Traditional methods are still used in their fishing techniques and you can appreciate their boating skills by trying to paddle in a dugout canoe yourself.

Visit the nearby villages and schools as well as dine in the local village, haggle for a bargain at the local markets, learn the game of bao with some locals … or simply relax on the pristine white beaches. (B,L,D)

DAY 30: Lake Malawi to Chipata

We cross the border into Zambia, heading to a beautiful little campsite just 10kms before the Zambia/Malawi border, where we spend the night. (B, L, D)

DAY 31: Chipata to Lusaka

The landlocked country of Zambia is quickly crossed, passing through the capital Lusaka for one night. The campsite is home to some local wildlife and has beautiful facilities. (B, L, D)

DAY 32 & 33: Lusaka to Lake Kariba

This morning we will pack up camp early and head south for Lake Kariba. We head to the western waters of Lake Kariba and our base camp for the next 2 nights. The lake is one of the largest man made lakes in the world, boasting a wide variety of African game, bird life and unique flora and fauna.

Here you have the option to take a 2 night trip on the House Boats on Lake Kariba. For those of you who do not want to partake in the House Boats there are many activities you can do at the campsite such as fishing, canoeing, hikes, explore the local village or just relax on the tranquil banks of Lake Kariba. The campsite also has a swimming pool where you can enjoy soaking up the sun. (B,L,D)

House Boat option 2 night/2 day:

We board the House Boats at approx. 1pm and have lunch after you have settled yourself in. We depart the harbour at approx. 2pm and sail out to the Maaze River for a beautiful sunset and overnight on the House Boats. Lake Kariba is famous for its spectacular sunsets. (B; L, D)

The next day you can relax the entire day on the deck of the House Boat and enjoy the on board Jacuzzi. House Boats on Lake Kariba are truly one of the most relaxing ways to spend a few days. For those of you feeling a bit more active in the early morning we take a Fishing/Game Cruise on tender boats or you have the option to do a game walk on the island in the Maaze area. There is opportunity to see plains game and many different species of bird life. After lunch and head to Maaze Island where we do a tour of the Crocodile Farm. Dinner is prepared on the boat while we sit back and enjoy our sundowners over the lake. (B, L, D)

DAY 34: Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Today we cross the border into the town of Victoria Falls. 1700 metres wide and around 100 metres high, Victoria Falls are one of the most memorable sights on your African safari. A couple of days are spent here to enable you to experience the sights and the many activities available. All year round, flights can be taken which give you a panoramic view of the Falls, Batoka Gorge and the islands above the Falls. Flights can be taken in either fixed wing planes, micro lights or helicopters. Back on the ground, the Falls can be seen from the Victoria Falls Park. All offer fantastic photographic opportunities. (B)

White water rafting in the Batoka Gorge is considered to be world class. Besides the excitement of the grade 5 rapids, there are the "floats" where there is time to admire the scenic cliffs and occasional wildlife on the riverbanks.

Bungi jumping enthusiasts can take the plunge from the Zambezi Bridge, which connects Zambia and Zimbabwe. The leap into the Batoka Gorge is one of the latest activities at Victoria Falls and is certainly not for the faint-hearted.

Other optional activities around Victoria Falls include day trips into the Zambezi National Park, horse riding safaris, a visit to the Crocodile Ranch, Snake Park, golf at the Elephant Hills Hotel, parachuting, the Falls Craft Village.

DAY 35: Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe:

Our tour will end in the morning after breakfast. (B)

Local Payment: US$705 pp

Optional Excursions

Masai Mara - Masai Village Cultural Visit
. . .US$ 25
Gorilla Trek
. . .US$375 - US$600 (depends if we trek in Uganda, Rwanda or DRC)
Kampala - Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary
. . .US$ 60
Jinja - White Water Rafting on the Nile
. . .US$ 125
Jinja - Softpower Community Project
. . .US$ 25
Lake Naivasha - Elsamere High Tea
. . .US$ 10
Lake Naivasha - Crescent Island Sanctuary
. . .US$ 505
Arusha - 3 Day / 2 Night Serengeti/Ngorongoro Crater Excursion
. . .US$410
Zanzibar - Accommodation
. . .US$ 30 p/p/p/n
Zanzibar - Stone Town - Spice Tour
. . .US$ 30
Lake Malawi - Village Walk & Meal
. . .US$ 10
Lake Malawi - Water Skiing
. . .US$ 20
Livingstone - Zambezi Sunset Dinner Cruise
. . .US$ 50
Victoria Falls - National Park Entry Fee
. . .US$ 20
Victoria Falls - Bungee Jump
. . .US$ 105
Victoria Falls - White Water Rafting on the Zambezi
. . .US$ 110

(All prices are approximate and are subject to change)

Please note: This itinerary should be used as a guide only and may vary from day to day depending on road conditions, weather, political situations, and group decisions. Due to new tourism laws in some of the countries we operate in there may be a truck and crew change during the trip. All prices & Local Payments are subject to change without prior notice.

Free Trips

Please note that when you book this trip you are entitled to receive a free 3 day Masai Mara Safari AND our 3 day Hwange safari. The Local Payment is still applicable for both trips. This offer must be taken up when booking your main trip. Conditions apply.

2011 DEPARTURES

Gorillas & Southern		Gorillas & Southern
Discoverer		Discoverer
NV35 - South Bound		VN35 - North Bound
Price	R 14 320	Price	R 14,320
Local Payment	U$705	Local Payment	U$705
START	FINISH	START	FINISH
NBO	VFA	VFA	NBO
SUN	SAT	SUN	SAT
14 Aug 11	17 Sep 11	21 Aug 11	24 Sep 11
28 Aug 11	01 Oct 11	04 Sep 11	08 Oct 11
11 Sep 11	15 Oct 11	18 Sep 11	22 Oct 11
25 Sep 11	29 Oct 11	02 Oct 11	05 Nov 11
09 Oct 11	12 Nov 11	16 Oct 11	19 Nov 11
23 Oct 11	26 Nov 11	30 Oct 11	03 Dec 11
06 Nov 11	10 Dec 11	13 Nov 11	17 Dec 11
20 Nov 11	24 Dec 11	27 Nov 11	31 Dec 11

 806 Unit 2, Mogwase, Pilanesberg 081 354 5210
PO Box 250 Sun City, 0316 - Updated  Aug 2011
wom@mweb.co.za