Africa Overlandtour

Day 1: Mombasa, Kenya

The expedition kicks off in Mombasa on the shores of the Indian Ocean. Upon arrival, the group meets the organisation team and the expedition mechanic who will accompany all vehicles through to Cape Town. The day is dedicated to introductions, a full tour briefing, and sorting out logistical details. There is also time to settle in and soak up first impressions of this vibrant tropical port city. In the evening, the group gears up together for the stages ahead.

Day 2: Mombasa, Kenya

Day two is all about settling in and getting vehicles ready for the overland journey ahead. The group has the chance to acclimatise, sort any remaining logistics, and carry out final vehicle checks. There is also time to relax on the beaches of the Indian Ocean or take a stroll along the coastline. The relaxed atmosphere is ideal for getting to know your fellow drivers. By evening, attention turns to the first driving stage starting the next morning.

Day 3: Mombasa – Voi

The first proper driving day takes the convoy from the coast into the Kenyan hinterland. On the Mombasa–Nairobi Highway, the group leaves the tropical coastal zone and drives through increasingly arid terrain towards Voi. The road already delivers a strong sense of East Africa’s vast open plains. Tonight’s stop is a lodge near the Tsavo area, where the first day behind the wheel winds down in a relaxed setting.

Distance: approx. 165 km

Day 4: Voi – Amboseli

The convoy continues through the wide-open Kenyan landscape towards Amboseli. Depending on conditions, the group will take either the southern route hugging the Tanzanian border with views of Kilimanjaro, or a more northerly track via Emali and Kimana. Along the way, open savannas, small towns, and sweeping plains alternate. On arrival, the stunning backdrop of the Amboseli area awaits. In the evening, an optional night game drive in the reserve is on offer.

Distance: approx. 220–320 km

Day 5: Amboseli

Today is dedicated to the wildlife of Amboseli National Park. Morning and afternoon game drives are planned, offering excellent chances to spot elephant herds, antelope, and a wide variety of other animals. The park is renowned for its open plains with an iconic backdrop of Kilimanjaro. Between activities there is time to simply absorb the atmosphere. The evening wraps up again in camp at the edge of the reserve.

Day 6: Amboseli – Nairobi

In the morning the convoy leaves the open plains surrounding Amboseli National Park, heading north via Emali back onto the Mombasa–Nairobi Highway. The route cuts through the wide-open landscapes of southern Kenya, gradually closing in on the capital. As Nairobi draws closer, traffic builds and the landscape transforms noticeably. By afternoon the convoy reaches Nairobi, the economic hub of the country. The evening is free – a good opportunity to reflect on the impressions gathered during the opening days of the expedition.

Distance: approx. 210 km

Day 7: Nairobi – Naivasha

Leaving Nairobi, the route climbs into the Kenyan highlands of the Great Rift Valley. The road repeatedly opens up sweeping views across this vast geological rift system. Today’s destination is Lake Naivasha, one of the region’s most famous lakes. In the afternoon there is an optional boat trip across the lake to Crescent Island, where wildlife roams freely. The evening closes out in a peaceful setting on the lakeshore.

Distance: approx. 90 km

Day 8: Naivasha – Kitale

The stage continues north through the Kenyan highlands. Via Nakuru and Eldoret the route follows varied roads through agricultural regions and small towns. The scenery constantly shifts, showcasing the diversity of the central Kenyan highlands. Today’s destination is Kitale, close to the Ugandan border, where the group prepares for the upcoming border crossing.

Distance: approx. 310 km

Day 9: Kitale – Jinja, Uganda

A shorter morning drive leads from Kitale to the Suam border crossing between Kenya and Uganda. The road passes through lush highland scenery on the flanks of the Mount Elgon area. At the border post, entry formalities are completed and the Kenyan guide bids farewell. The group then meets the Ugandan guide who will lead the next leg of the trip. The route follows the green slopes of the Mount Elgon area through Mbale and scenic highland terrain. Small towns, cultivated fields, and dense vegetation characterise this part of Uganda. The drive continues south to Jinja on the shores of Lake Victoria – a city regarded as the source of the Nile and the end of the first driving day in Uganda.

Distance: approx. 345 km

Day 10: Jinja

A well-earned rest day in Jinja after the opening stages of the expedition. The town sits right on Lake Victoria and has a famously relaxed waterside atmosphere. Optional activities include boat trips or fishing excursions on the lake, or a walk along the Nile. Above all, this is a chance to recharge before the next longer driving stages.

Day 11: Jinja – Fort Portal

A longer driving day takes the convoy right across Uganda. The route heads first towards Kampala then west on the A109. Along the way, more densely populated areas alternate with open countryside. As the group approaches western Uganda, the terrain becomes greener and more hilly. Today’s destination is Fort Portal, a town on the edge of the Rwenzori Mountains.

Distance: approx. 400 km

Day 12: Fort Portal – Ishasha

The route runs alongside the dramatic backdrop of the Rwenzori Mountains, whose peaks rank among Africa’s highest. Parts of the road are more basic tracks, reinforcing the remote character of this region. The destination is the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park in south-western Uganda. In the afternoon there is the option of a game drive in the park or a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel – both offering excellent wildlife viewing.

Distance: approx. 180 km

Day 13: Ishasha – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

One more morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park is on the agenda before the convoy heads south through increasingly mountainous terrain. The road winds through dense vegetation and small mountain villages. Today’s goal is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, one of East Africa’s most celebrated protected areas – and world-famous for its mountain gorillas.

Distance: approx. 150 km

Day 14: Bwindi

A full day in Bwindi National Park. Optionally, gorilla trekking can be arranged – an encounter with one of the last wild mountain gorilla populations on earth. Alternatively, excursions into the surrounding mountain region are possible, for example to Lake Mutanda or Lake Bunyonyi. The landscape is defined by steep hills, small villages, and dense forest. The day is there to take in the very special atmosphere of this remote corner of Africa.

Day 15: Bwindi – Kibuye

Today’s drive continues south towards the Rwandan border. Via Kisoro the group reaches the Cyanika border post, where entry formalities are processed. On the Rwandan side the drive continues through the country’s famously hilly landscape. The destination is Kibuye on the shores of Lake Kivu, one of the great lakes of the region. An optional boat trip on the lake is available in the afternoon.

Distance: approx. 210 km

Day 16: Kibuye – Kigali

The stage follows Rwanda’s varied landscape eastward. The roads wind through the country’s characteristic hilly terrain, passing countless small settlements and cultivated fields. Along the way, sweeping views open up over the so-called Land of a Thousand Hills. By afternoon the convoy reaches Kigali, the capital of Rwanda. The evening is free to explore at leisure.

Distance: approx. 130 km

Day 17: Kigali – Nakatunga

The group leaves Kigali in the morning and takes the NR4 national road east. The road passes through Rwanda’s characteristic hilly landscape with numerous small villages and farming regions, offering sweeping views across the green hills at regular intervals. At the Rusumo border crossing, exit formalities are completed and the Rwandan guide says goodbye. The convoy then crosses into Tanzania. At the Rusumo crossing, the group meets the Tanzanian guide for the next section of the tour. After completing entry formalities, a shorter drive through north-western Tanzania follows. The road passes through a rural region of small settlements and fields. Tonight’s stop is Nakatunga, the first overnight in Tanzania – a shorter day giving the group time to prepare for the longer stages ahead.

Distance: approx. 185 km

Day 18: Nakatunga – Kigoma

A long driving day lies ahead through western Tanzania. The route runs via Nyakanazi through vast, sparsely populated stretches of the country. Open landscapes alternate with small settlements and farmland, giving drivers a real sense of the enormous scale of this part of East Africa. Today’s destination is Kigoma on the shores of Lake Tanganyika.

Distance: approx. 440 km

Day 19: Kigoma

A recovery day in Kigoma after the long drive the day before. The town sits directly on Lake Tanganyika, one of the largest and deepest lakes in Africa. Optional excursions include a visit to the Dr. Livingstone memorial or the historic town of Ujiji. A boat trip on the lake or a day trip to Gombe National Park are also possible. The day is an opportunity to enjoy the unique atmosphere of this remote region.

Day 20: Kigoma – Mpanda

The convoy continues south along the B8 through western Tanzania. The road passes through expansive landscapes of savanna, woodland, and small settlements, making it abundantly clear just how sparsely populated this part of the country is. Today’s destination is Mpanda on the edge of Katavi National Park, the base camp for the next stages through this remote region.

Distance: approx. 300 km

Day 21: Mpanda – Sumbawanga

This stage passes through one of Tanzania’s most remote regions. Parts of the route traverse the Katavi National Park area and wide open savanna landscapes. Open plains, small villages, and minimal traffic define the driving experience, delivering an intense impression of the vast emptiness of this region. By afternoon the group arrives in Sumbawanga in the south-western highlands.

Distance: approx. 260 km

Day 22: Sumbawanga – Isoka, Zambia

The route continues through the highlands of south-western Tanzania towards the Zambian border. Vehicles pass through rural regions of small villages, cultivated fields, and spacious countryside, reflecting the calm pace of life in this remote area. At the Tunduma border crossing, exit formalities are completed and the Tanzanian guide departs. After crossing into Zambia, the group meets the Zambian guide who will lead the next section. The drive continues south through a green highland landscape of small settlements and farmland. Traffic is typically light, making for relaxed driving. Today’s destination is Isoka, a small town in northern Zambia and the group’s first overnight stop in the country.

Distance: approx. 345 km

Day 23: Isoka – Mpika

The convoy continues along the T2, one of Zambia’s main north–south arteries. The road runs through varied scenery of forest, open savanna, and small towns. Local markets and typical roadside life are a regular feature of the drive, painting a vivid picture of everyday rural Zambia. Today’s destination is Mpika.

Distance: approx. 280 km

Day 24: Mpika – Kapiri Mposhi

A longer stage on the T2 is on the agenda today. The route passes through Serenje and Mkushi across the central Zambian plateau. Wide open landscapes alternate with smaller towns and farming regions. As a major national artery, the road links multiple regions of the country together. By afternoon the group arrives at Kapiri Mposhi.

Distance: approx. 435 km

Day 25: Kapiri Mposhi – Lusaka

The drive continues south via Kabwe towards Lusaka. Along the way vehicles pass through farming regions and smaller towns, with traffic building steadily on the approach to the capital. By afternoon the group reaches Lusaka, Zambia’s economic hub. The evening offers a chance to unwind after the recent long stages.

Distance: approx. 205 km

Day 26: Lusaka – Livingstone

A long drive through southern Zambia lies ahead today. The route runs via Kafue and Kalomo through expansive savanna and open plains. Small towns and local roadside markets appear at regular intervals. By late afternoon the group arrives in Livingstone, near the Botswanan border. The town is the gateway to Victoria Falls.

Distance: approx. 480 km

Day 27: Livingstone

A free day in Livingstone to visit one of Africa’s most iconic natural wonders. Victoria Falls are among the world’s largest waterfalls and lie just a few kilometres from town. Additional excursions on the Zambezi River are available, including sunset boat cruises. Scenic flights over the falls are also possible. The day doubles as a rest stop before the upcoming stages.

Day 28: Livingstone – Nata, Botswana

In the morning the group leaves Livingstone and drives a short distance to the Botswanan border at Kazungula. The road follows the course of the Zambezi through open savanna. At the border post, exit formalities are processed and the Zambian guide says his farewells. The crossing marks the start of the next chapter in southern Africa. After crossing into Botswana, the convoy meets the guide who will accompany the group for the next section of the journey. The route follows well-maintained roads through the vast landscapes of north-eastern Botswana. The surroundings are defined by open savanna and sparsely populated terrain. Long, straight roads convey a powerful sense of the sheer scale of this landscape. The day’s destination is Nata, on the edge of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans.

Distance: approx. 380 km

Day 29: Nata – Maun

The convoy continues west through Botswana’s open landscapes. Via Gweta the route follows a quiet long-distance road through wide savanna. Today’s destination is Maun, the gateway to the Okavango Delta. In the afternoon an optional boat trip on the Thamalakane River is available, or alternatively, scenic flights over the Okavango Delta can be arranged.

Distance: approx. 330 km

Day 30: Okavango Delta

Today is dedicated to an excursion into one of Africa’s most celebrated wilderness areas. 4×4 vehicles head into the Moremi Game Reserve on the edge of the Okavango Delta, one of the most biodiverse regions in southern Africa. Game drives offer the chance to spot a wealth of wildlife in their natural habitat. The group returns to Maun in the evening.

Day 31: Maun – Ghanzi

The journey continues west into the drier regions of Botswana. The route passes through the vast Kalahari landscapes of open plains and isolated settlements. Long stretches of road convey the sense of silence and space that defines this region. Today’s destination is Ghanzi, a small town on the edge of the Kalahari, where the group stays in a lodge overnight.

Distance: approx. 320 km

Day 32: Ghanzi – Blouberg

Today brings the border crossing into Namibia. The route leads first to the Buitepos border post, where entry formalities are completed. The drive then continues through the sweeping landscapes of eastern Namibia. Open plains, farming country, and wide horizons define the surroundings. Tonight’s stop is a guest farm in the Blouberg region.

Distance: approx. 235 km

Day 33: Blouberg – Windhoek

The convoy continues south through Namibia’s wide-open landscapes. Via Gobabis the group eventually reaches Windhoek, the country’s capital. Open plains, farm land, and minimal traffic characterise the drive. As the city draws closer, the surroundings gradually change. The afternoon is free to explore Windhoek.

Distance: approx. 300 km

Day 34: Windhoek

A pause in Windhoek during the long drive through southern Africa. The capital blends colonial history with modern African urban life. Optional city tours or excursions into the surrounding area can be arranged, including visits to traditional villages in the region. The day is a chance to rest and recharge before the next stages.

Day 35: Windhoek – Swakopmund

From Windhoek the route heads towards the Atlantic coast through Namibia’s vast landscapes. Via Okahandja the road follows the B2 through increasingly arid terrain. As the coast approaches, the climate noticeably changes. Today’s destination is Swakopmund, a coastal town with a distinctive historic character. The evening is free for a stroll through town or along the shoreline.

Distance: approx. 370 km

Day 36: Swakopmund – Sossusvlei

The stage begins along the coast to Walvis Bay, then turns inland through the spectacular landscapes of the Namib-Naukluft Park. The route passes through the Kuiseb Canyon and continues through vast desert scenery. The destination is the Sossusvlei area, famous for its towering red sand dunes. In the afternoon a scenic sunset drive is on offer.

Distance: approx. 345 km

Day 37: Sossusvlei

The day begins with the chance to explore the dune landscape of Sossusvlei. The area ranks among Namibia’s most iconic landscapes. The towering red sand dunes and the wide salt pans of the surrounding area are particularly spectacular. A visit to the nearby Sesriem Canyon is also possible. The rest of the day is free to enjoy the desert region at your own pace.

Day 38: Sossusvlei – Helmeringhausen

One more morning among the dunes of Sossusvlei before the route heads south through the arid landscapes of the Namib-Naukluft area. Via Solitaire and Hammerstein the road traverses vast desert and semi-desert terrain. Open plains and impressive long-distance views define the scenery. Today’s destination is Helmeringshausen.

Distance: approx. 270 km

Day 39: Helmeringhausen – Oranjemund

The route continues through the dry landscapes of southern Namibia. Via Aus and Rosh Pinah the road passes through a remote region of vast plains and rugged mountain scenery. The drive delivers an intense sense of the space and quiet of this border region. The destination is Oranjemund on the Orange River, close to the South African border. The group spends its last evening in Namibia here.

Distance: approx. 370 km

Day 40: Oranjemund – Kamieskroon, South Africa

In the morning the group crosses into South Africa via the Ernest Oppenheimer Bridge near Alexander Bay. The route then follows the west coast via Port Nolloth through the stark landscapes of Namaqualand. Rocky hills, wide plains, and small towns characterise the drive. Via Springbok the convoy finally reaches Kamieskroon, a region known for its exceptional desert scenery.

Distance: approx. 300 km

Day 41: Kamieskroon – Clanwilliam

An optional visit to the Namaqua National Park is available in the morning. The route then continues south along the N7. The road passes through varied scenery of mountains, open plains, and farming regions, with vegetation gradually changing along the way. Today’s destination is Clanwilliam on the edge of the Cederberg region.

Distance: approx. 270 km

Day 42: Clanwilliam – Cape Town

The final driving day follows South Africa’s west coast. The route passes through smaller coastal towns with repeated views out over the Atlantic Ocean. Via St. Helena Bay and Bloubergstrand the group finally approaches Cape Town. The view of Table Mountain on the drive into the city is particularly spectacular. In the afternoon, the long overland route comes to an end at the southern tip of the African continent.

Distance: approx. 300 km

Day 43: Cape Town

The first free day in Cape Town offers endless opportunities to explore the city and its surroundings. One of Africa’s most spectacular cities, Cape Town is framed by the Atlantic Ocean and the iconic Table Mountain. Optional excursions to the Cape Peninsula are available. The spectacular coastal drive along Chapman’s Peak is not to be missed. Alternatively, the day is there for independent exploration of the city at your own pace.

Day 44: Cape Town

Another free day to explore the Cape Town area. The wine regions around Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are particularly well known, with landscapes of vineyards, mountains, and historic wine estates. Alternatively, further city sights can be visited. The day is an invitation to let the journey wind down in a relaxed atmosphere.

Day 45: Cape Town

The final day marks the close of this extraordinary journey across Africa. Vehicles are prepared and handed over for their return shipment. Time remains to enjoy these last hours in Cape Town. In the evening the group gathers for a shared farewell dinner. A chance to look back together on the memories and moments of the past weeks.

Day 46: Cape Town

The final day brings the shared journey to a close. After breakfast, individual transfers to the airport take place. From Cape Town, participants set off on their journeys home. Behind them lie several thousand kilometres through the most diverse landscapes Africa has to offer – a truly unique adventure.