Zambia, Malawi & Mozambique Adventure
22 Days Starting in Livingstone, Zambia and ending in Johannesburg, South Africa
Visiting: Livingstone, Victoria Falls, Kafue River, Lower Zambezi River, Lusaka, South Luangwa National Park, Lake Malawi, Tete, Vilankulos, Inhambane, Xai-Xai, Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga, Johannesburg
Tour operator:
Tour code:
ZMM
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
4 - 12
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Zambia, Malawi & Mozambique Adventure" and experience the best of Southern Africa's natural wonders and wildlife. Begin your journey in Livingstone, Zambia, marveling at the iconic Victoria Falls before paddling down the Lower Zambezi on a thrilling canoe adventure. Discover the rich biodiversity of South Luangwa National Park through game walks and 4WD drives. Relax on the pristine beaches of Lake Malawi and snorkel in its crystal-clear waters. Explore the stunning Benguerra Island and unwind at Inhambane's serene beaches, with optional scuba diving. Conclude your adventure with exhilarating game drives in Kruger National Park, South Africa, and a scenic tour of the Panorama Route. This tour offers a mix of camping, basic lodges, and chalets, ensuring an authentic and immersive experience in the heart of Africa.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Join Livingstone
Location: Livingstone
Accommodation Name: Campsite
The group will meet in Livingstone, in Zambia, at 14:00 where we have 2 days to explore Victoria Falls, a natural wonder of the world and one of the most enthralling sights in Africa. The mighty Victoria Falls plunges into the Zambezi Gorge and adventure activities abound, you can take part in some of the many optional activities (own expense) on offer in the adrenalin capital of Africa. Overnight campsite.
NB: Breakfast is not included; Lunch & Dinner will be at your own expense (meal at a local restaurant).
Day At Leisure To Enjoy The Area And The Falls At Your Own Pace
Location: Victoria Falls
Accommodation Name: Campsite
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is a free day to visit the Falls, browse the local markets, simply relax or to experience some of the many optional activities including white water rafting, airplane or helicopter flights over the Falls, kayaking and more. (These are optional activities and at your own expense). Overnight campsite.
NB : Breakfast will be provided by the tour leaders with the help of the group; Lunch & Dinner will be at your own expense (meal at a local restaurant).
Day 3 : Kafue River
Location: Kafue River
Accommodation Name: Campsite
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A long drive takes us across the rolling Miombo forested hills of southern Zambia to the Kafue River where we camp the night. Approx driving distance/time: 520 kms; 8-10 hrs; a long driving day along very scenic and bumpy roads.
NB: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner will be provided by the tour leaders with the help of the group.
Day 4 : Lower Zambezi Canoeing
Location: Lower Zambezi River
Accommodation Name: Wild camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We paddle down the mighty Zambezi River, home of the tribal mythical god – Nyami Nyami. Canoeing past local riverside villages and magnificent scenery. We camp wild on an island in the heart of untamed Africa. The following morning we continue our canoe safari through an area teaming with elephants, hippos and other wildlife. We will be collected by a motorboat, and are transferred back up river to our starting campsite. Approx driving distance/time: 50 kms; 1.5 hrs.
NB: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner will be provided by the tour leaders with the help of the group.
Day 6 : Lusaka
Location: Lusaka
Accommodation Name: Basic lodges (chalets)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We head to Lusaka where we stock up on supplies in the bustling shops and markets of the Zambian capital. Taking the Great East Road we drive this afternoon until sunset. Overnight in twin-share basic lodges (chalets) with ensuite bathrooms. Approx driving distance/time: 560 kms; 10-11 hrs.
NB: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner will be provided by the tour leaders with the help of the group.
Day 7 : South Luangwa National Park
Location: South Luangwa National Park
Accommodation Name: Campsite
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Make our way down into the valley of the South Luangwa National Park. This remote region is one of Africa’s finest wildlife sanctuaries where hippo, elephants, lion and leopard abound. We camp on the banks of the Luangwa River and explore the area on 2 game walks and 2 open 4WD game drives, with spotlights, to see nocturnal animals. (In the green season, Dec – Apr, walks may not be possible in which case we’ll do extra game drives). Approx driving distance/time: 310 kms; 5-8 hrs; there can be potholes and the road down into the valley is hilly and slow.
Day 7: Breakfast will be provided by the lodge; Lunch & Dinner will be provided by the tour leaders with the help of the group.
Days 8-9: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner will be provided by the tour leaders with the help of the group.
Day 10 : Lake Malawi
Location: Lake Malawi
Accommodation Name: Campsite
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Welcome to Malawi - the warm heart of Africa. We restock with fresh supplies in the markets of Lilongwe before heading to our camp on the beach at Lake Malawi. We’ll take a boat out to the islands to explore the fantastic bays and coves in the area. Approx driving distance/time: 400 kms; 7-9 hrs; today is a slow and long travel day and the border crossing can have delays.
NB: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner will be provided by the tour leaders with the help of the group.
Day 12 : Transit Mozambique
Location: Tete
Accommodation Name: Campsite
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Heading south again we enter Mozambique at Zobue border post. Making our way back over the Zambezi we travel through the Tete region, camping en route in this remote part of Mozambique. (Please note campsite facilities are very basic). Approx driving distance/time: up to 450 kms per day; 7-9 hrs per day; the border can take some time and there are potholed roads towards the coast.
NB: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner will be provided by the tour leaders with the help of the group.
Day 14 : Bazaruto Islands
Location: Vilankulos
Accommodation Name: Basic lodges (chalets)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Upon reaching the Indian Ocean we stay overnight in Vilankulos. We take a full day to explore the Magaruque Island on a local dhow, a traditional ocean going trade vessel. Beautiful blue sea, snorkeling, expansive white beaches and some excellent seafood available – what a day. (Please note one dinner is at your own expense while visiting the Bazaruto Islands on Day 15). Overnight in twin-share basic lodges (chalets). Approx driving distance/time: 550 kms; 10 hrs; the road today has many potholes and we go very slowly at some points.
Day 14: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner will be provided by the tour leaders with the help of the group.
Day 15: Breakfast & Lunch will be provided by the tour leaders with the help of the group; Dinner will be at your own expense (meal at a local restaurant).
Day 16 : Inhambane
Location: Inhambane
Accommodation Name: Basic twin-share lodge (chalet)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Arab influences are strong in Inhambane dating back to when slaves, ivory, gold and spices were traded. Explore Inhambane and its 200-year-old cathedral, before moving to our accommodation next to the beach. (Dhow rides and scuba diving on coral reefs are available, at your own expense.) Please note one dinner in Inhambane is at your own expense. Overnight in basic twin-share lodge (chalet) with ensuite facilities. Approx driving distance/time: 380 kms; 6-7 hrs.
Day 16: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner will be provided by the tour leaders with the help of the group.
Day 17: Breakfast & Lunch will be provided by the tour leaders with the help of the group; Dinner will be at your own expense (meal at a local restaurant).
Day 18 : Chizavane
Location: Xai-Xai
Accommodation Name: Basic twin-share lodge (casita)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
We turn south along the coast to a secluded fishing lodge on the beach north of Xai-Xai. The lodge is perched on the coastal dunes with a magnificent view of the surrounding natural bush and expansive beach. Low tide exposes a long rocky reef parallel to the beach, which creates a shallow, calm pool ideal for snorkelling and swimming. For our last night on the beach, we enjoy dinner at the lodge restaurant overlooking the warm Indian Ocean. Please note this dinner is at your own expense. Overnight in basic twin-share lodge (casita) with ensuite facilities. Approx driving distance/time: 270 kms; 5 hrs; tarmac road followed by sandy track.
NB: Breakfast & Lunch will be provided by the tour leaders with the help of the group; Dinner will be at your own expense (meal at a local restaurant).
Day 19 : Kruger National Park
Location: Kruger National Park
Accommodation Name: Campsite
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We travel through the Transfrontier Limpopo Park into Kruger National Park - visit big game country. Exciting game drives to spot lions, giraffe and the mighty elephant. Relaxing in the tranquil bush we experience a land forgotten by time, a true African wilderness. Overnight campsite. Approx driving distance/time: 390 kms; 7-10 hrs; the road is rough gravel plus a border crossing and then a game drive to camp.
NB: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner will be provided by the tour leaders with the help of the group.
Day 21 : Mpumalanga, Panorama Route
Location: Mpumalanga
Accommodation Name: Twin-share lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Departing Kruger, we overnight at a private game lodge in the Greater Kruger for our final dinner under the stars. Overnight in twin-share lodge with ensuite facilities. Approx driving distance/time: total 180 kms; 4-5 hrs.
NB: Breakfast and Lunch will be provided by the tour leaders with the help of the group; Dinner will be provided by the lodge.
Day 22 : To Johannesburg, Trip Concludes
Location: Johannesburg
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning we tour the Panorama Route, visiting God’s Window and the Three Sisters. We return to Johannesburg in the afternoon, sun-tanned, laid-back and ready to rejoin life. Our tour ends today at 18:00pm in Johannesburg, if you wish to extend your stay please ask for more details. Approx driving distance/time: total 580 kms; 8-9 hrs.
NB: Breakfast will be provided by the lodge; Lunch will be at your own expense (meal at a local restaurant).
What's Included
-
Accommodation
14 nights camping -
21 breakfasts, 19 lunches and 16 dinners
-
7 nights in comfortable guest houses, hotels and lodges on a twinshare basis
-
14 nights limited participation camping on a twinshare tent basis
-
Group camping equipment including tent and mattress (sleeping bag and pillow not included)
-
English speaking local guide
-
Game drives and excursions as listed in itinerary
-
National park fees and site entrance fees as listed in itinerary
-
Private transport in custom built vehicle
-
Local cash payment of US$400 payable to tour leader on day 1
-
International flights and taxes
What's Not Included
Accommodation
14 nights camping. Camping - 15 nights on safari we stay at designated campsites in national parks, on private land and in towns. Campsite facilities are at best basic but generally clean. Group camping equipment includes tent and mattress (sleeping bag and pillow not included). There are hot, but sometimes cold, showers, washing facilities are at some of the campsites. Some camps in Zambia have simple reed enclosures for showers but do have flush toilets. Wild camping - for 1 night while canoeing on the Zambezi River we camp wild on an Island in the middle of the river. Wild camps have no facilities; we take our own water and all equipment. Wild camping can be very enjoyable but please remember that we leave no trace of our stay and take all rubbish away with us. Toilets will be of the "dig and bury" variety. Basic lodges (chalets & reed casitas) - for 5 nights we will be accommodated in chalets and casitas (reed cabins). Chalets have twin share rooms (sometimes two rooms per chalet) with shared ablutions. Some properties also have swimming pool and bar facilities. Casitas are basic cabins on the beach, twin share with shared ablutions. ROOM REQUESTS: On this trip, twin-bedded rooms are very common and double beds are either not available or limited in numbers. We can always request double beds upon arrival at each accommodation, but there is never any guarantee. Meals will be prepared by the tour leaders.
What You Carry
In your daypack you will need to carry extra warm clothing (it can be very cold on early morning activities), a rainjacket, water bottle, camera gear, valuables and personal items such as sunscreen, lip balm etc.
Grading
Although there is no commitment to extended walking on this journey we nonetheless want to keep the ‘accent on the active’. We therefore advise that any physical training you complete before undertaking the trip will be to good effect. There is no shortage of advantages of packing as much into your time in Southern Africa as possible. The fitter you are the more this will enhance your experience.
Wildlife
The wilderness areas of Africa are populated by large numbers of wild and potentially dangerous animals. The trip aims to view these animals in their natural habitat, uncontrolled by fences. Your experienced guides will make every effort to ensure the safety of the group at all times. Please be aware that all safari travel, including vehicle safaris in the proximity of wild animals is never entirely without risk. By travelling into wild areas in search of wild animals, all participants accept that they are choosing an adventure that includes an element of risk and this is an inherent aspect of the enjoyment of this style of travel.
Mode of Transport
Private transport in a custom-built vehicle. The tour includes a mix of long drives, some up to 10 hours, and shorter transfers. Canoeing on the Zambezi River and a local dhow trip to Magaruque Island are also part of the transport experience.
Check out our Q&As
-
What meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes 21 breakfasts, 19 lunches, and 16 dinners. Meals will be prepared by the tour leaders, often with the help of the group. Some meals, particularly dinners at local restaurants, are at your own expense.
-
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on this tour?
The tour aims to view a variety of wildlife in their natural habitats, including hippos, elephants, lions, leopards, and more. The wilderness areas are populated by large numbers of wild and potentially dangerous animals, and your experienced guides will make every effort to ensure the safety of the group.
-
What should I carry in my daypack during the tour?
In your daypack, you should carry extra warm clothing, a rain jacket, a water bottle, camera gear, valuables, and personal items such as sunscreen and lip balm.
-
What kind of activities can I expect during the tour?
The tour includes a variety of activities such as exploring Victoria Falls, canoeing on the Lower Zambezi, game walks and 4WD game drives in South Luangwa National Park, snorkeling and enjoying the beaches of Lake Malawi, exploring Benguerra Island, and game drives in Kruger National Park. Optional activities like white water rafting, helicopter flights, and scuba diving are also available at your own expense.
-
What type of accommodation will we be staying in during the tour?
The tour includes 14 nights of camping at designated campsites, 1 night of wild camping on an island in the Zambezi River, and 5 nights in basic lodges (chalets and reed casitas). Campsite facilities are generally basic but clean, with some campsites offering hot showers and flush toilets. Wild camping has no facilities, and lodges typically have twin-share rooms with shared ablutions.
-
Is there any physical preparation required for this tour?
Although there is no commitment to extended walking, it is advisable to complete some physical training before the trip to enhance your experience. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the activities.
-
Are there any risks associated with the safari travel on this tour?
Yes, all safari travel, including vehicle safaris in the proximity of wild animals, carries an element of risk. By participating in this tour, you accept that you are choosing an adventure that includes an inherent element of risk, which is part of the enjoyment of this style of travel.
-
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
We have offices on three continents which means your travelling companions will be just that – international and wonderfully eclectic. Part of small group travel means that although travellers come from various locations and backgrounds, you will be travelling with like-minded companions who, like you, are keen to share the experience and forge lifelong friendships.
-
What about environmental impact?
We believe that adventure travel revolves around establishing a strong relationship with the people and environments in which we operate. Our responsible travel policies have been carefully developed to ensure that we minimise the impact of our presence and help to protect the regions we visit while contributing positively to the local community.
-
What should I pack?
Your pre-departure documents include a detailed packing list with items that you need to bring. While most of the equipment for daily activities is included in your tour cost, some items like helmets and hiking boots are best brought from home. The pre-departure documents also include information on layering and recommended brands for various items to ensure you are fully prepared for your trip.
-
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes. World Expeditions does not require single travellers to pay a surcharge for travelling alone on the vast majority of our trips. Our holidays are primarily on a twin share basis, so if you are joining the group as a solo traveller, we will match you with someone of your own gender. The choice is yours however; if you prefer not to share, we do offer single supplements for private occupancy.
-
Are tips included in my trip price?
Tips are not included in the tour cost. Tipping is a personal thing, do not worry about how much, or when, to tip. Tipping guidelines are provided for certain destinations in our pre departure information upon booking, however the best advice will be provided by your tour leader.
-
Am I suited to small-group travel?
We recognise that many of our travellers have not been on a ‘group trip’ before. Yet what our departures provide is both structure and flexibility, allowing you plenty of freedom within the framework of the itinerary. You’ll find that with our maximum group size at 16, you’ll travel in a minimal impact style with a great group of like-minded travellers.
-
Can you advise which vaccinations are recommended?
While our pre-departure kit provides information on vaccinations, we suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.
Reviews from travellers on this tour
Book with Confidence
-
Transfer as credit to Future Tours
World Expeditions allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform world expeditions, 70 days before departure.
-
Low Deposit
World Expeditions requires a minimum deposit of 250 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of world expeditions charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.