Overland from Cape to Falls

21 days - from $1495

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

• Canoe the Okavango Delta
• The Chobe riverside, Chobe National Park, Botswana
• Dawn in Etosha National Park
• Sandboard the world’s biggest dunes, Namibia
• See (and smell) the seals at Cape Cross
• Sesriem Canyon
• Spend time with the San Bushmen, Namibia
• Sunrise at Sossusvlei Dunes
• Take the ultimate Namibia photo at Dead Vlei
• Explore Cape Town’s historic heart
• Swot up on Mandela
• Victoria Falls by moonlight, Livingstone, Zambia

Itinerary:

Day 1-2: Cape Town - Township Tour - Cederberg3-4: Gariep (Orange) River - Fish River Canyon5-6: Sesriem & Sossusvlei - Namib-Naukluft National Park7-8: Swakopmund9: Cape Cross - Spitzkoppe10-12: Etosha National Park - Bushmanland13-14: 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: 20 breakfasts, 17 lunches, 16 dinners
EquipmentIncluded: 02 Sep 10
Valid From: 11 Jan 09
Valid Until: 31 Dec 69
Starts/Ends: Cape Town to Livingstone, Southern Zambia
Trip Reference: GACF