Victoria Falls & Malawi

Itinerary:

Day 1 – Lusaka 
Setting off early from the Zambian side of Victoria Falls, we catch a last sighting of the mighty falls before we head off on a long day of traveling. We will get our first impressions of East Africa through the window of our truck: colorful markets, busy villages and rural scenes form the backdrop of our journey as we travel through Zambia. We will enjoy a prepared meal on arrival as our guides brief us on the days ahead. -/L/D

Day 2 – Petauke 
This morning, we will drive through Zambia's busy capital, Lusaka, before turning east towards Petauke, our destination for the night. As an essential link between Lusaka and neighboring Malawi, the Great East Road winds through rural Zambia, and we will cross the mighty Luangwa River along the way. Dotted with villages and subsistence farms, today's landscapes serve as a stark contrast to the developed countries so many of us call home. We will make a delightful stop at Luangwa Market, a bustling hub where local Zambian vendors showcase their wares. Among the treasures on display are masau and masuku, delectable fruits that are available year-round and renowned for their mouth-watering taste. In addition, other African curios catch our eye, from charming miniature hippos to intricately woven baskets and papyrus carpets, adding to the colorful tapestry of this vibrant marketplace. B/L/D

Day 3 – South Luangwa National Park 
We are looking forward to the tranquillity of South Luangwa, and this morning, we will make our way to the banks of the Luangwa River. We will stop at Mulberry Mongoose to view their local jewelry and curios; these accessories are hand-crafted by local ladies from South Luangwa using organic materials originating from the African bush. The Chipata area is a significant producer of cotton, and we will get a taste of the creativity of the African culture. One of the finest sunsets is indeed enjoyed on the banks of the Luangwa River, so grab a cold drink and watch the day fade away. B/L/D

Day 4 – South Luangwa National Park 
South Luangwa National Park is a world-class safari destination, and we will have a full day to explore the park and the variety of wildlife found there. This morning you can partake in an optional morning safari or during the dry season (April to December) you can join one of the iconic walking safaris in the park. We will enjoy a sunset drive in the park this afternoon, including a sundowner stop. The unique opportunity to explore the park at night allows us to spot the elusive nocturnal species rarely seen in the day. B/L/D

Pre-Bookable Activities Safari Walk (seasonal) / Morning Game Drive in South Luangwa /Mulberry Mongoose Jewellery Workshop

Day 5 – Lake Malawi 
This morning, we board our truck and set off for Malawi, the warm heart of Africa. Our destination tonight is the shores of Lake Malawi, the southernmost lake in the East African Rift system. As one of the ten largest lakes in the world, the lake stretches for over 500 km along the western boundary of Malawi and is home to more fish species than any other lake. We will spend the night on the shores of the lake, this natural wonder.  B/L/D

Day 6 – Lake Malawi 
Today is all about exploring the lake and relaxing. Use the time to read a book, soak up the sun or indulge in the many attractions. You can do an optional hike with a local guide to the nearby Dwambazi Waterfall. Located a 30-minute from Nglala Beach Hotel, the waterfall offers a breathtaking panorama from the summit. Depending on the weather, we may even have the opportunity to take a refreshing swim in the pristine waters surrounded by the landscape's lush greenery and natural splendor. B/L/D

Optional pre-book Activity: Waterfall Hike

Day 7 – Lake Malawi 
Today, we are back on the road for most of the day, traveling further north, and will overnight once again on the banks of Lake Malawi. In the afternoon, our guide will lead us on a walk through a nearby village. After the walk, enjoy the sunset over the lake from the beach. B/L/D

Day 8 – Mbeya 
We depart this morning and continue north, heading for the Utengule Coffee Lodge where we will overnight. B/L/D

Day 9 – Tanzania – Iringa 
Before heading to Iringa, we will make a stop at a local coffee plantation where we have the opportunity to see the process of growing and harvesting coffee beans and will be able to sample some of the beans. We then ascend the Great Rift Valley and make our way further into Tanzania. B/L/D

Day 10 – Mikumi 
This morning we will complete our journey to the doorstep of Mikumi National Park. We have a quick stop at the Baobab Valley, Tanzania - a mesmerizing landscape dotted with ancient, towering baobab trees that have stood the test of time. These iconic trees create a surreal and breathtaking scene, casting dramatic shadows against the African savannah, the perfect backdrop to stop for a group picture. We then reach Mikumi, which ranks as the fourth largest park in Tanzania, but forms part of a 75,000 square kilometer wilderness that centers on Selous, Africa's largest game reserve. Today, you will have the opportunity to book a game drive in Mikumi National Park. B/L/D

Optional Activity Mikumi Game Drive

Day 11 – Mikumi  
Today, you will have the opportunity to book additional safaris in Mikumi National Park or embark on a variety of cultural tours. B/L/D

Optional Activities Mikumi National Park Safaris / Cultural Tours

Day 12 – Dar es Salaam/ Bagamoyo
We overnight at our accommodation before an early start the following morning to catch our transport to Zanzibar Island. B/L/-

Day 13 – Dar es Salaam/ Bagamoyo
Enjoy breakfast with your group before you bid your fellow travelers farewell. Your tour comes to an end after breakfast this morning. B/-/-