THE VEHICLES

Overland trucks these days are purpose built Scanias, Mercedes, MAN or DAF which are designed to ensure all round viewing, ample storage and have security and comfort in mind. The trucks do vary from company to company. They are all self sufficient with cooking and camping equipment, stools, long-range fuel tanks, exterior and interior lighting, safes, comprehensive medical kits, stereos and ipod points and comfortable seats with seat belts. Some trucks will have a fridge/freezer while some will just use cool boxes and some will have charge points for cameras, mobiles etc.

Some trucks have either roll up tarps with PVC windows or large, drop down or side slide windows both of which maximise visibility when you are on the road but have their advantages and disadvantages.

The layout of trucks vary as well with some having forward facing seats other inward facing which makes it more sociable.

There are many variations in truck style and design and we are here to help you choose wisely.

THE CREW

Depending on the type of trip and which overland company you travel with the overland Africa expert crew can vary between 1 and 3 people. This will clearly impact on the level of participation expected by the passengers.

’The ’Driver’ – who gets you safely through the vastness of Africa and deals with the vehicle maintenance.

The ’Tour Leader’ – who deals with the smooth running of the trip – they control the accounts for the passengers and the company, arrange all accommodation and food, book activities and optional excursions, provide information regarding where you are travelling through and deal with any problems that arise whether personal, medical or other.

The ‘Safari Cook’ – who takes care of the cooking, shopping and the truck kitchen. Passengers are still expected to help out with preparation, washing up, etc.

Most companies have a mixture of international and local crew which will enhance the travel experience.

FOOD

Some overland Africa expert companies will supply 3 meals a day, others just 2, but options for lunches are always available. Meals and menus will vary depending on what produce is available locally. Fresh food is bought in local markets and bulk buys of staple goods are purchased at supermarkets in the larger towns and cities. Food is prepared using gas stoves and open fires.

Sometimes local meals are organised and occasionally group meals out in the city are provided.

Drinks are at your own expense but are freely available

Passengers are expected to get involved and help out with the shopping, preparation, washing up and cooking.

ACCOMODATION

The majority of overland trips are based on camping in spacious A frame, 2 man tents with built in ground sheets, separate fly sheets and mosquito netting over the entrance. With camping safaris there is often the chance to upgrade to simple accommodation for a small additional cost. If camping is not your bag there are also accommodated options but these tend to be shorter duration trips.

Some companies provide sleeping mats others don’t but you will need to take your own sleeping bag and a small pillow for that extra bit of comfort.

The campsites can vary dramatically in Africa from basic bush camps with/without an ‘ablution block’ (common parlance in Africa for a toilet / shower block) and cold running water to organised campsites with bars electricity, flush toilets, hot water and sometimes even a pool!

Camping out in the bush under a star lit sky with the sounds of the African night is an experience that will stay with you forever.

LOCAL PAYMENT/KITTY COST
The Kitty is a compulsory local payment held and overseen by the overland Africa expert tour leader. It funds accommodation, camp meals, national park fees and inclusive activities which the group does as a whole. These payments are usually made in US$ as this is the easiest currency to change in Africa.

Kitty’s vary dramatically from company to company so be aware that you should view the Tour Cost as the combined sum of the tour price and the local payment.

INCLUSIONS and EXCLUSIONS
This is a very important element to take into account as some overland companies include excursions - such as guided walks, houseboat stays, and mini-safaris by jeep or boat in national parks - in the tour cost and some don’t. Those with no included excursions or limited inclusions tend to boast the lowest brochure prices. Be aware that once you have added in all the extra costs that ‘bargain’ tour may well not be so cost effective!!

We will help you decipher these inclusions and exclusions to get the trip that suits you.

SAFETY
Africa is an unpredictable continent and traveller’s safety and enjoyment is a primary concern. With the myriad of overland operators in Africa it is hard to know which company to travel with. Having worked on the ground in Africa we know how each company works and the emergency procedures they have in place as you want to have peace of mind that if anything untoward does happen then the right back-up support is in place..

We do not have hidden loyalties to particular operators so we can offer unbiased independent advice and help you find the right trip that best suits your needs.

Check out our adventure tour finder for details of the range of trips on offer, or see below for details of our top three 3 Overland adventures.

Or call for a quote on 01273 320 573 or email ben@travelnation.co.uk

OVERLANDING – using purpose built Expedition vehicles

Nairobi to Cape Town, 54 days, £890 plus local payment of US$750

Countries Visited: Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, South Africa

An overland journey encompassing many of the incredible landscapes & cultures you imagine with Africa. From the tropical waters of Zanzibar to the austere Atlantic Ocean of Southern Africa - the contrasts abound. Masses of wildlife in the Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Etosha National Parks, to the playgrounds of Victoria Falls and Swakopmund will leave memories that last forever.

What’s included?
Ngorongoro Crater & Game Drive
Manyara National Park
Mikumi Game Park
Lake Malawi
Private Game Ranch
Chobe National Park (entrance & river cruise)
Etosha National Park
Cheetah Park
Namib Naukluft Park
Cape Cross Seal Colony
Spitzkoppe Rock formations
Sossusvlei Dunes
Fish River Canyon
All transport on Oasis Expedition Truck
Accommodation fees (approx. 85% camping &
15% simple hostels/hotels)
Camping and Cooking gear
Min. 2 meals per day (on average)
End of trip group meal
Services of Oasis Crew

Not Included
Visas $120 - $220 (depending on nationality most can be obtained en route)
Meals taken while staying in hotels/hostels (i.e. C. Town, Swakopmund)
Optional Excursions as listed in the pre-departure information
Airport Taxes & Transfers
Travel Insurance
Flights
Drinks
Tips

Detailed Itinerary Please note that our itineraries are not set in stone and can be subject to change.

Days 1 to 4 We depart Nairobi early morning and immediately find ourselves in hot savannah grasslands with acacia trees providing the only shade. Various game, usually zebra and giraffe can be seen as we head south and cross into Tanzania - where we camp on the outskirts of Arusha town. Here we use a local African safari travel company to guide us through Lake Manyara National Park, Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park. After a morning of flamingo spotting on Lake Manyara, you'll head down into the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater. On the crater floor you will have the opportunity to view the abundant wildlife including Elephant, Lion, Cheetah, White Rhino, Buffalo, Hippo, Antelope, Crocodile and Pink Flamingos. From here you can also choose to go into the Serengeti for a day where vast herds of wildebeest roam the plains. For those who wish - there is an option to visit a local Maasai Village and learn about their culture and way of life.

Days 5 to 9 A day's drive brings us to capital Dar Es Salaam, and just another day in the life of an Africa overland safari. We pass a number of small towns and villages along the way and, if we are lucky, we may see the towering peak of Kilimanjaro. At Dar Es Salaam our truck is based for around 4 nights in a campsite on a beautiful Indian Ocean beach. From here most people take the ferry out to Zanzibar for the full four days and venture into the narrow bustling streets of Stone Town and its famous spice markets, old slave forts and dungeons. There is also time to relax on Zanzibar's famous white beaches , scuba dive or snorkel and swim with dolphins!

Days 10 to 12 After meeting the Zanzibar ferry we begin the journey through the interesting and mountainous hinterland of Tanzania. In the afternoon, after negotiating some appalling roads, we pass through the peaceful Mikumi National Park. African safari travel is synonymous with wildlife, and in this national park we usually see Elephant, Giraffe, Zebra and Antelope from the roadside. Passing through lush mountainous landscape and plantations - we enter Malawi which is dominated by its huge fresh water lake.

Days 13 to 17 Camping in Malawi sums up the spirit of an Africa overland trip with Oasis. We spend 4 to 5 days at a friendly laid back campsites where most people choose to relax on the sandy beaches or try their hand at scuba diving , snorkelling or windsurfing as we follow the lakeshore south. If you are more inclined to just relax - then there is no better place than on the shores of Lake Malawi. This really is a warm friendly country - making it easy to wander off and meet up with your local hosts in one of the many villages or schools nearby. You can view first hand the talent of the local artisans and purchase some exquisite pieces of furniture and carvings out of ebony and mahogany.

Days 18 to 19 From here we continue on to the capital Lilongwe in the south of the country where we you the opportunity to visit the local wildlife centre - providing much needed security and shelter for some of Malawi's orphaned and injured wildlife!

Days 20 to 24 After obtaining our Mozambique visa in Lilongwe, we cross into Mozambique and head for Zimbabwe to continue our African overland trip. We follow the infamous Tete Corridor which was well known in the days of Mozambique's long running civil war as the Gun Run. Thankfully these days things are a lot different! We enter Zimbabwe and travel via the capital, Harare before we head south to Gweru. Here we visit a privately run horse and game ranch where you can go game viewing on elephant and horseback or even take a walk with Lion Cubs! Its our destination for the next few days and always a highlight!

Days 25 to 27 From Gweru - We drive across Mashonaland to the Great Zimbabwe Ruins which was once the greatest medieval city in Sub Saharan Africa and where the name Zimbabwe is derived, literally meaning house of stone. Next we enter Matabeleland and the town of Bulawayo.

Days 28 to 29 You have the option of leaving the truck for a day to venture into Matobo National Park with a local safari company. You will have a unique chance to get out on foot to try and spot the elusive Black Rhino - amongst hordes of other game. There is also the opportunity to visit Cecil Rhodes' grave and Ancient Rock Paintings before catching an old style sleeper train (if available) to meet up with the truck again at one of the greatest adventure playgrounds of the world - Victoria Falls.

Days 30 to 31 For some, Mosi oa Tunya - The Smoke That Thunders, is the highlight of their African safari. From the main road, in the bush 20kms away, a cloud of mist and spray can be seen against the blue sky. As you get closer , a low rumble like thunder can be heard. When you arrive it is a surprise to discover the enormity of Victoria Falls. One mile wide and hurling over 5 million cubic metres of water a minute into the Zambezi Gorge this is the setting for the most adrenaline fuelled grade 5 white water rafting in the world. There is something here for everyone to end off this Kenya to Zimbabwe safari: A day trip over the Victoria Falls bridge to view the falls from Zambia, Flight of Angels - a great way to get a birds eye view of the falls in a light aircraft or helicopter, Sunset Boat Cruises or a more sedate Canoe trip, to the adrenaline packed Gorge Swing, Abseil or a chance to experience one of the highest commercial Bungee Jumps in the world - a perfect way to end your African experience.

Days 32 to 35 Our overland trip continues from Zimbabwe into Botswana, spending the night on the outskirts of the Chobe National Park - famous for its hordes of Elephants, as well as an abundance of other wildlife. You will have a chance to spend the afternoon on the Chobe River - a less intrusive way to view game and wildlife - as well as the Namibian frontier across the river. We then head south into the Kalahari Basin - known for its dry, desolate and expansive freedom. You will have an opportunity to leave the truck for a few days to venture into the Okavango Delta. Local poler guides will navigate the extensive waterways using canoes similar to their traditional Mokoro's (dug out canoes).This is a great experience - and the best way to have a chance of seeing the elusive wildlife of this unique desert oasis. You will have a number of opportunities to go on game walks with rangers - giving you the chance to see elephant, crocodile and hippo up close and personal. The Okavango Delta is one of the world's largest inland waterways and its calming serenity will leave those who experience it feeling supremely relaxed. There is also the opportunity to experience the heights of African adventure travel too: see the delta from the air during an hour-long flight.

Days 36 to 38 Travelling west we enter Namibia and continue toward Etosha National Park - recognised as one of the worlds greatest wildlife viewing areas. The semi desert is quite a contrast to the more fertile terrain we have been used to. The night sky ablaze with shooting stars and the warm glow of our campfire makes for unforgettable camping experiences. Besides game drives we can also game watch by night at one of the floodlit water holes where we may well spot Rhino, Elephant and Giraffe among a host of other wildlife. From Etosha we visit a local Cheetah park and get up close to these amazing and endangered creatures, before continuing on to the Brandberg Mountains in Demaraland.

Days 39 to 44 We then travel to the stunning Spitzkoppe Rock formations. Known as the Matterhorn of Namibia - the Spitzkoppe is part of the Erongo Mt range and was formed over 100 million years ago after the collapse of a gigantic volcano. The scenery is striking from every angle - even more stunning as the granite massifs turn red at sunset. Next stop is the world famous Cape Cross Seal Colony, where the sight of thousands of these mammals, as well as their accompanying pungent odour is remembered by all! The Cool Atlantic Ocean and the prominent Benguela current provide a perfect location for feeding and breeding for the Cape Fur Seal. For the next three days, our Africa overland trip will be based in Swakopmund - Namibia's adventure gateway. You can choose between a variety of activities and excursions here: spend a day deep sea fishing for shark and other game fish or head out to the desert and try quad biking and dune sledding. You can also go horse riding or get a birds eye view of the dramatic coastline - either by Sky diving from 10,000 feet or take a flight over the towering sand dunes in the area. In Swakopmund itself you can walk along miles of deserted beaches, visit the museum or relax in a cafe.

Days 45 to 49 A one day drive takes us to the Namib-Naukluft Park, a vast expanse of desert which contains some of the highest sand dunes in the world. At Sossusvlei we stop and explore the area and the dunes. Continuing south we enter the semi-desert, and wide-open countryside of cattle ranching until we arrive at one of Africa's most sensational natural features, Fish River Canyon. We camp next to this massive gorge where you can join a scenic hiking trail along the rim of the canyon - a great way to take in the awesome scenery

Days 50 to 54 A couple of hours drive away we enter South Africa and cross the Orange River - a rich source of diamonds. We travel south through the Cederburg Wilderness Area, an area of rugged valleys and peaks - before getting to Stellenbosch where we visit one of the historic Cape Wineries. The final destination for most on this African adventure is the vibrant and cosmopolitan city of Cape Town. Our accommodation here will be in a backpackers lodge.

OVERLANDING – using purpose built Expedition vehicles

Nairobi to Victoria Falls, 31 days, £575 plus local payment of US$445

Countries Visited:Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe

Get up close to the amazing wildlife in the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Manyara National park, chill out on the white sandy beaches of Zanzibar and Lake Malawi and experience one of Africa's great natural wonders at Victoria Falls. Why not try rafting the mighty Zambezi River or a Gorge Swing over it?

What’s included?
Ngorongoro Crater & Game Drive
Manyara National Park
Mikumi Game Park
Lake Malawi
Private Game Ranch
End of trip group meal
All transport on Oasis Expedition Truck
Accommodation fees ( approx. 90% camping & 10% simple Hotels/hostels)
Camping and Cooking gear
Min. of 2 meals per day (on average)
Services of Oasis Crew

Not Included?
Visas $75 - $220 (depending on nationality most can be obtained en route)
Meals taken while in hotels/hostels
Optional Excursions as listed in the pre-departure information
Airport Taxes & Transfers
Travel Insurance
Flights
Drinks
Tips

Detailed Itinerary Please note that our itineraries are not set in stone and can be subject to change.

Days 1 to 4 We depart Nairobi early morning and immediately find ourselves in hot savannah grasslands with acacia trees providing the only shade. Various game, usually zebra and giraffe can be seen as we head south and cross into Tanzania - where we camp on the outskirts of Arusha town. Here we use a local African safari travel company to guide us through Lake Manyara National Park, Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park. After a morning of flamingo spotting on Lake Manyara, you'll head down into the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater. On the crater floor you will have the opportunity to view the abundant wildlife including Elephant, Lion, Cheetah, White Rhino, Buffalo, Hippo, Antelope, Crocodile and Pink Flamingos. From here you can also choose to go into the Serengeti for a day where vast herds of wildebeest roam the plains. For those who wish - there is an option to visit a local Maasai Village and learn about their culture and way of life.

Days 5 to 9 A day's drive brings us to capital Dar Es Salaam, and just another day in the life of an Africa overland safari. We pass a number of small towns and villages along the way and, if we are lucky, we may see the towering peak of Kilimanjaro. At Dar Es Salaam our truck is based for around 4 nights in a campsite on a beautiful Indian Ocean beach. From here most people take the ferry out to Zanzibar for the full four days and venture into the narrow bustling streets of Stone Town and its famous spice markets, old slave forts and dungeons. There is also time to relax on Zanzibar's famous white beaches , scuba dive or snorkel and swim with dolphins!

Days 10 to 12 After meeting the Zanzibar ferry we begin the journey through the interesting and mountainous hinterland of Tanzania. In the afternoon, after negotiating some appalling roads, we pass through the peaceful Mikumi National Park. African safari travel is synonymous with wildlife, and in this national park we usually see Elephant, Giraffe, Zebra and Antelope from the roadside. Passing through lush mountainous landscape and plantations - we enter Malawi which is dominated by its huge fresh water lake.

Days 13 to 17 Camping in Malawi sums up the spirit of an Africa overland trip with Oasis. We spend 4 to 5 days at a friendly laid back campsites where most people choose to relax on the sandy beaches or try their hand at scuba diving , snorkelling or windsurfing as we follow the lakeshore south. If you are more inclined to just relax - then there is no better place than on the shores of Lake Malawi. This really is a warm friendly country - making it easy to wander off and meet up with your local hosts in one of the many villages or schools nearby. You can view first hand the talent of the local artisans and purchase some exquisite pieces of furniture and carvings out of ebony and mahogany.

Days 18 to 19 From here we continue on to the capital Lilongwe in the south of the country where we you the opportunity to visit the local wildlife centre - providing much needed security and shelter for some of Malawi's orphaned and injured wildlife!

Days 20 to 24 After obtaining our Mozambique visa in Lilongwe, we cross into Mozambique and head for Zimbabwe to continue our African overland trip. We follow the infamous Tete Corridor which was well known in the days of Mozambique's long running civil war as the Gun Run. Thankfully these days things are a lot different! We enter Zimbabwe and travel via the capital, Harare before we head south to Gweru. Here we visit a privately run horse and game ranch where you can go game viewing on elephant and horseback or even take a walk with Lion Cubs! Its our destination for the next few days and always a highlight!

Days 25 to 27 From Gweru - We drive across Mashonaland to the Great Zimbabwe Ruins which was once the greatest medieval city in Sub Saharan Africa and where the name Zimbabwe is derived, literally meaning house of stone. Next we enter Matabeleland and the town of Bulawayo.

Days 28 to 29 You have the option of leaving the truck for a day to venture into Matobo National Park with a local safari company. You will have a unique chance to get out on foot to try and spot the elusive Black Rhino - amongst hordes of other game. There is also the opportunity to visit Cecil Rhodes' grave and Ancient Rock Paintings before catching an old style sleeper train (if available) to meet up with the truck again at one of the greatest adventure playgrounds of the world - Victoria Falls.

Days 30 to 31 For some, Mosi oa Tunya - The Smoke That Thunders, is the highlight of their African safari. From the main road, in the bush 20kms away, a cloud of mist and spray can be seen against the blue sky. As you get closer, a low rumble like thunder can be heard. When you arrive it is a surprise to discover the enormity of Victoria Falls. One mile wide and hurling over 5 million cubic metres of water a minute into the Zambezi Gorge this is the setting for the most adrenaline fuelled grade 5 white water rafting in the world. There is something here for everyone to end off this Kenya to Zimbabwe safari: A day trip over the Victoria Falls bridge to view the falls from Zambia, Flight of Angels - a great way to get a birds eye view of the falls in a light aircraft or helicopter, Sunset Boat Cruises or a more sedate Canoe trip, to the adrenaline packed Gorge Swing, Abseil or a chance to experience one of the highest commercial Bungee Jumps in the world - a perfect way to end your African experience.

OVERLANDING – using purpose built Expedition vehicles

Nairobi to Zanzibar, 34 days, £730 plus local payment of US$555

Countries Visited:Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania

A varied trip through Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania from gorilla viewing in the rain forests to the island paradise beaches of Zanzibar. The memory of the Gorilla Trek and observing these amazing creatures as they meander and feed in their ever-diminishing habitat will remain with you forever. The game parks of east Africa are renowned for their unspoiled natural beauty and prolific game, while the island of Zanzibar will see you soak up its exotic traditions.

What’s included?
Ngorongoro Crater & Game Drive
Manyara National Park
Mikumi Game Park
Lake Malawi
Private Game Ranch
End of trip group meal
All transport on Oasis Expedition Truck
Accommodation fees ( approx. 90% camping & 10% simple Hotels/hostels)
Camping and Cooking gear
Min. of 2 meals per day (on average)
Services of Oasis Crew

Not Included?
Visas $75 - $220 (depending on nationality most can be obtained en route)
Meals taken while in hotels/hostels
Optional Excursions as listed in the pre-departure information
Airport Taxes & Transfers
Travel Insurance
Flights
Drinks
Tips

Detailed Itinerary Please note that our itineraries are not set in stone and can be subject to change.

Day 1: Nairobi to Masai Mara Leaving the hustle and bustle of Nairobi we climb the escarpment to our first stop, a viewpoint overlooking the spectacular Great Rift Valley. Descending into the Rift Valley, we enter Masai land where these habitual pastoralists are often seen tending their cattle from the side of the road. We pass through the town of Narok, before arriving at our campsite, Acacia Camp. Acacia Camp looks on to the Meguarra hills and the stream that meanders by on the bottom end forms a natural border to the Masai Mara National Reserve.

Day 2: Masai Mara We spend the day driving through nature as it was intended to be - huge plains, rolling hills and an abundance of game matched no where else on earth. We keep an eye open for the Big 5 - elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion & leopard. If travelling between July and October, we may get to witness the impressive herds of over 1 million wildebeest, zebra and Thomson's gazelle in their Annual Migration. Sitting around the camp fire, watching the sun set is the perfect way to finish a day's game viewing in this "Garden of Eden."

Day 3: Masai Mara to Kisumu Leaving the Masai Mara early in the morning, we pass through the scenic tea plantations of Kericho before descending the Rift Valley Plateau, on our way to Kisumu - Kenya's harbour town on the banks of Africa's largest lake, Lake Victoria. We replenish our supplies and overnight here.

Day 4: Kisumu to Kampala (Uganda) Today, we cross the border into Uganda where we overnight it the capital city, Kampala. 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 capped Ruwenzori Mountains in the west and the semidesert region in the north. The political instability that has haunted Uganda in the past has actually 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 return Uganda to its former status 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.

Day 5 - 8: Kampala to Lake Bunyoni After an early morning departure from Kampala we drive west into the depths of Uganda to our base at the tranquil Lake Bunyoni.

Lake Bunyoni, the deepest Crater Lake in Africa and home to a large and varied number of beautiful birds, is the base from which the optional Gorilla trek takes place. Dependant on where trekking permits are available, we trek in the Magahinga or Bwindi National Parks in Uganda, the Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, or the Ruhengeri National Park in Rwanda. The prices of trekking permits fluctuate and may change without prior notice – currently they are priced at US$500 depending on where we trek. There is a local transport & handling fee of US$65 to US$70 per person (this covers the return transfer and the Wildlife Authority's booking fee). For trekking in the DRC or Rwanda, we will also have to purchase an additional visa to enter either country, as well as renewing our Ugandan visa upon re-entry. Please budget accordingly.

Trekking Procedures: The mountain gorilla (Gorilla Gorilla Berengei), of which there are still only about 700 remaining, are one of our closest living relatives. A visit to these gentle giants in their natural enviroment is a unique and wonderful experience - one you'll never forget. The park rangers monitor the gorillas on a daily basis and have a fairly good idea of where they are. However, they are free roaming animals, and their sighting cannot be guaranteed. As the gorillas share much of our DNA, anyone with even the slightest cold or transferable illness will not be permitted to trek. Trekking is also only open to people over 16 years old.

Due to the restrictions on the daily numbers of visitors to these incredible animals, we depart from our base in Bunyoni in small groups over 3-4 days, depending on the group size. Winding our way through arguably some of the most picturesque scenery in Africa, we head to the town of Kisoro where we spend the night (Should we be trekking in Rwanda our overnight will be in Ruhengeri). The following morning, after packing our picnic lunch, we are transferred to a ranger's station where the trek commences. Your rangers will lead you through the cultivated lands and then into the dense rain forest and on to a gorilla family. Trekking can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 8 hours and it can be quite strenuous, so a reasonable level of fitness is required. To ensure the gorillas do not get too used to the presence of humans and because they share many of our genes (and therefore able to catch our diseases), the maximum time permitted to spend with them is 1 hour. You will have plenty of time to watch their activity and to take photographs. The rangers will be able to provide you with a background to the family you are visiting. Once your hour is up, you trek back out of the rain forest to your meeting point where you will be transferred back to the Lake Bunyoni campsite.

You needn't feel like you're exploiting these animals. The ever-growing number of tourists trekking them each day play a vital role in their survival. For years they have been ruthlessly hunted for their hands and heads, which have been sold as ashtrays and lampshades! In addition, large numbers have been killed whilst trying to stop poachers stealing the babies for sale to zoos, where they have never lived long. 100% of the gorilla permit cost is used to by the parks authorities to finance patrols that are instrumental in protecting the gorillas from poachers and their lethal snares and on promoting these wonderful animals.

Lake Bunyoni
For those of us awaiting our day of gorilla trekking, the choice is yours, visit a local village or church, hike in the surrounding hills, canoe, go on a bird watching walk, visit the local markets of Kabale or just spend the days relaxing or swimming in this tranquil lake.

Day 9: Lake Bunyoni to Kampala After marvelling at the experience of our gorilla encounters and enjoying the peaceful Lake Bunyoni, we begin our drive back to Kampala. We cross the Equator for the second time and stop for the classic "one foot in each hemisphere" photo opportunity. We overnight in Kampala and have the opportunity to sample its night life!

Day 10: Kampala to Jinja Today we have the option of visiting the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary or transferring to Jinja for a selection of adventure activities including white water rafting at the source of the White Nile, quad biking or volunteering at a community project. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the banks of the river, or ticking off the wide variety of water birds in this area.

Day 11: Jinja to Nakuru (Kenya) Today we head back to Kenya, stopping for lunch and supplies en route. We overnight in Nakuru, Kenya's 4th largest town and capital of the Rift Valley Province.

Day 12: Nakuru & Lake Nakuru National Park This morning we begin our exploration of the Lake Nakuru National Park - famous for the thousands of lesser and greater flamingos that flock to this soda lake's edge. The numbers vary depending on the water level, and when it's low, the lake almost turns pink. A truly spectacular sight! The park was established as a sanctuary for black and white rhino, which are often seen. We spend the day searching for these pre-historic looking beasts as well as the elusive leopard, encountering buffalo, giraffe, various antelope and the occasional hippo along the way.

Day 13: Lake Nakuru National Park to Lake Naivasha Moving further east, we head to Lake Naivasha, home to a multitude of bird life, the most magnificent being the African Fish Eagle with his regal cry. At 1880 m, this is the highest of the Rift Valley lakes. Time permitting; we spend the afternoon enjoying optional excursions like Elsamere (former home to Joy & George Adamson of Born Free fame), a boat ride to the Crescent Island Game Sanctuary or a bike ride around Hell's Gate National Park. Tonight is spent in a lovely campsite overlooking the lake.

Day 14: Lake Naivasha to Nairobi After breakfast, we head back to Nairobi. On arrival, we head to the Hotel Boulevard, where we deliver the passengers who'll be ending their trip here, before heading to our campsite for the night.

Day 15: Nairobi to Arusha (Tanzania) This morning we collect the passengers who'll be joining us on the next leg of our trek. We travel south crossing the border into Tanzania at Namanga. Tonight we stay in a lovely campsite in Meserani on the outskirts of Arusha, before heading out on our Optional Excursions to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.

Day 16 - 18: Arusha to Serengeti National Park (OPTIONAL) Arusha is a pleasant town situated at the base of Mount Meru and is the starting point for the optional excursions to Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti. We conduct these excursions in locally operated 4WD vehicles, which are adapted for safari use. For those not opting to visit the Ngorongoro Crater or Serengeti National Park, the next days are spent at leisure enjoying the Meserani reptile park, Masai Cultural Museum and the surrounding villages and craft markets. Alternatively the town of Arusha is close by to explore. The Optional Ngorongoro/Serengeti excursion takes us via the Masai town of Mtu Wa Mbu (Mosquito River) that lies adjacent to the Lake Manyara National Park and up the Rift Valley Escarpment to the higher lying village of Karatu. Karatu offers magnificent views over the surrounding hills and has many well established wheat farms that add to the picturesque panoramas. We spend the evening at a pleasant campsite in Karatu. The following morning we depart early for the Ngorongoro Conservation area and head into the wildlife rich Ngorongoro Crater. This World Heritage Site boasts some of the best game viewing in Africa – including the elusive Black Rhino. After our game drive in the Crater, we head down the Crater rim and past the 'Cradle of Mankind' on our way to the Serengeti National Park. We cross the vast plains as we game drive through the southern and central areas in the park. Tonight we camp in the bushveld surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness. In the morning, we head off for another game drive and explore the landscape in search of the resident game. With some luck, we may see some of Africa's 'Big 5'! After our morning drive, we head back across the plains and the lush Crater rim to our truck at Arusha, where we spend the evening musing over our thrilling wildlife experience.

Day 19: Arusha to Pangani After a morning spent exploring Arusha and its vibrant craft markets, we head south towards Dar es Salaam. On the way we drive through the town of Moshi. Moshi is the base for Mount Kilimanjaro climbing expeditions, and weather permitting; we may even catch a glimpse of this magical mountain's snowy summit - a photo opportunity not to be missed! We pass through vast sisal plantations surrounded by The Usambara and Pare Mountain ranges, before reaching our lovely campsite nestled between these mountains, midway between Arusha and Dar es Salaam.

Day 20: Pangani to Dar es Salaam Today we continue on to Dar es Salaam. Travelling through lush scenery and palm trees, we near the warm Indian Ocean. On arrival in Dar es Salaam we make our way to our lovely seaside campsite and prepare for our departure to Zanzibar the next morning.

Day 21: Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar A ferry from Dar es Salaam takes us to the "Spice Island," where we have the option to spend the next 3 nights. Zanzibar is steeped in history and was one of the major starting points for most East African explorers in their quest for new lands. New passengers may join us to replace those that'll leave us at the end of our excursion to Zanzibar. PLEASE NOTE: Accommodation and Meals are for your own account whilst on Zanzibar, as it is our experience that passengers prefer to explore the island on their own. The Trip Leader joins you and can arrange your accommodation, while meals can be enjoyed from a wide selection of restaurants. *For those not opting to visit the island of Zanzibar, the next 3 days are spent at leisure at the beach campsite in Dar es Salaam.

Day 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 famous for its spices and an excursion around a spice plantation is always a fascinating experience. Other options include a trip to the beautiful beaches and giant tortoises of Prison Island, a full day scuba dive in Nungwe or a fishing trip in a traditional dhow. Mopeds are available for hire if you'd like to 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 - crayfish being a popular speciality. Alternatively, mingle with the locals for dinner at the Forodhani Gardens seafront market, where delicious, inexpensive seafood is on offer.

Day 24: Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam Leaving Zanzibar, we return to the mainland in the late afternoon where we exchange addresses and part ways, having just experienced a trip of a lifetime!