Overland from Cape to Falls

21 days - from $1196

Travelling overland from Cape Town to Livingstone and Victoria Falls provides a sampling of the incredible region of southern Africa within a short space of time. Beginning in one of the world's most beautiful cities, Cape Town, and ending at the spectacular falls, this safari journeys through the western part of South Africa, Namibia and the north of Botswana, as well as the eastern edge of Zambia.

The lush mountain ranges, winelands and orchards of the Western Cape give way to a more desolate north, as the Gariep River cuts a green swathe forming the natural border between South Africa and Namibia. The incredible natural beauty and diversity of Namibia is a real highlight of this journey. From the size and majesty of Fish River Canyon to the breathtaking sand dunes of the Namib-Naukluft National Park, you experience the true essence of this beautiful country. Swakopmund, the adrenaline centre of the country, provides a stark contrast to the surreal feel and spirit of Spitzkoppe. Continuing north, Namibia continues to impress with the beautiful scenery of Damaraland and the amazing wildlife of Etosha National Park. Leaving Namibia through the fertile north completes a picture of the incredible natural diversity that Namibia offers each visitor. The marvellous wetlands of the Okavango Delta in Botswana are truly spectacular and provide a great opportunity to experience true wilderness. From here we explore the game-rich areas of Chobe National Park and the Chobe River. The awesome power of the Victoria Falls provides a fitting finale to this incredible tour.

Highlights

• Cape Town
• Langa Township Tour
• Gariep (Orange) River
• Fish River Canyon
• Namib-Naukluft National Park
• Sesriem & Sossusvlei
• Bushmanland
• Swakopmund
• Cape Cross
• Spitzkoppe
• Etosha National Park
• Okavango Delta
• Chobe National Park
• Livingstone (Victoria Falls)
• Mosi-oa-Tunya (Victoria Falls)

Itinerary:

Day 1 Cape Town2 Cape Town Township Tour - Cederberg3 Gariep (Orange) River4 Fish River Canyon5-6 Sossusvlei - Namib-Naukluft National Park7-8 Swakopmund9 Cape Cross - Spitzkoppe10-12 Etosha National Park13-14 Rundu - Sepupa15-17 Okavango Delta18-19 Caprivi Strip - Chobe National Park20-21 Livingstone - Victoria Falls

What's It Like?

Gecko's adventures offer authentic experiences and a genuine alternative to backpacking. Our trips are designed for younger travelers on a budget but do include the entrance fees to the 'must see' sights while not wasting your money on unnecessary frills. Itineraries utilize public transport and basic twin share accommodations in small locally owned hotels, the occasional multi-share, or simply floor space in a jungle or village hut. Many trips involve some physical activity, the occasional long traveling day and you will need to carry your own bags. On camping trips, meals are freshly prepared by our camp cook, but expect to put up and take down your tent, and assist with camp chores. On all trips we only use local tour leaders who are passionate about their homeland. This is travel, grassroots style - basic but rewarding.

Included: An experienced safari guide, a professional driver and a camp cook whilst on safari; local specialist guides in the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park; park fees; 16 nights camping, 2 nights bungalow, 1 night houseboat, 1 night lodge; transport in custom-built safari vehicles during safaris, 4WD vehicles, mokoro, boat and ferry.
Not Included: International flights, local payment, arrival and departure transfers, airport/departure taxes, visas, pre-tour or post-tour accommodation, all other meals, drinks, sleeping bag, pillow, all optional additional tours or activities during free time, transfers outside of the tour program, travel insurance, tips and items of a personal nature, laundry and flights (unless specified).
Meals: As a guide we recommend you allow a figure of up to US$100 for additional meals, snacks and drinks (non-alcoholic) not included.
Valid From: 11 Jan 09
Notes: We travel in a custom-built safari vehicle that can take a maximum of 24 clients. There are large opening windows, providing unrestricted game viewing and photographic opportunities, and on-board we have useful reference books about the flora and fauna that you may encounter during your safari. The large dome tents are spacious and quick to erect with the sides covered in mosquito netting and foam mattresses provided to enable you to sleep in comfort. A comfortable folding chair is also supplied for each passenger. In addition, all communal camping equipment is carried on board together with on-board cool boxes. You need to bring your own sleeping bag and it is also recommended that you bring a pillow or purchase one locally for added comfort. Please note there are no laundry services available whilst camping, but sometimes when we stay at a campsite for at least two consecutive nights, there may be the opportunity to do some hand-washing. A special feature of the safari is that in addition to our safari guide and professional driver we have a camp cook who plans, budgets and prepares all included meals. Road Conditions and Infrastructure in Africa Roads in Africa are often in very poor condition, which makes it hard on vehicles. Our vehicles are serviced regularly and are generally in good condition, but breakdowns can and do happen. The infrastructure in Africa is not always what we are used to and travelling on their roads can sometimes be very bumpy experiences. The travelling times indicated in our Trip Notes 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.
Starts/Ends: Cape Town to Livingstone
Trip Reference: GACF