Day 01: Arrive Victoria Falls/Livingstone (ZIMBABWE/ZAMBIA)

Welcome to Victoria Falls - Southern Africa’s most popular tourist destination. We can arrive at one of two airports. VFA is the airport on the Zimbabwe side of Victoria Falls town, while LVI is the airport about 30 minutes away in the Zambian town of Livingstone. Choose the airport most convenient to you and we will be there to meet, greet and transfer you to your hotel. Balance of the day is free to relax or explore Victoria Falls town before we jump into our Botswana safari the next day.

Our accommodation is lovely Ilala Lodge, one of the closest hotels to Victoria Falls. Upgrades to the famous Victoria Falls Hotel, a colonial era hotel more than 100 years old, are also available upon request.

Overnight: Ilala Lodge, Victoria Falls (Deluxe Room) (1 night)

For this tour, it is important that you ask for the KAZA Univisa upon arrival at the airport. Please contact Bestway for more details.

Day 02: Victoria Falls/Chobe (BOTSWANA)

It’s no secret that Botswana is blessed with some of the best wildlife viewing on Earth. The country is well known for its exclusive offerings of high calibre safari lodges that seamlessly blend luxury with local landscapes. Chobe National Park is an absolutely iconic safari destination. This park is also known as “Land of the Giants”, as it has the largest single concentration of elephants found anywhere in the world.  We are transferred via road from Victoria Falls. After crossing the border into Botswana, we are at Chobe by midday. Our lovely lodge offers a choice of two different activities: a safari drive through Chobe Park in search of the Big 5 animals of lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and Cape buffalo, and a leisurely sunset boat cruise along the Chobe River, where we can see elephants and other animals come to cool themselves down. Take part in one this afternoon to get our first taste of African wildlife!

Want to treat yourself? We also offer upgrades to Chobe Game Lodge, which is the only property located right within Chobe Park itself! Chobe Game Lodge is fully eco-tourism certified.

Overnight: Chobe Bush Lodge (Standard Room), Kasane (2 nights) (B, L, D)

Day 03: Chobe

Another day of activities to discover the wildlife wonders of Chobe National Park. Besides its massive elephant population, Chobe is known for its huge herds of buffalo, as well as large prides of the lions that have learned to hunt them. The bird life is also spectacular, so make sure to bring your binoculars! Your activities will be on shared basis with other guests at the lodge. All meals are also included in your stay, along with local beverages. (B, L, D)

Day 04: Chobe/LVI/VFA (BOTSWANA/ZAMBIA/ZIMBABWE)

Today, we take the short journey back to Victoria Falls town. This morning, we will discover legendary Victoria Falls, a World Heritage Sites and one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, or “the smoke that thunders”, Victoria Falls is the world’s greatest sheet of falling water. Our first stop is Livingstone in Zambia, to see the Falls from this much less visited side. Please note that from September to November, the Falls on the Zambian side can run dry. However, the opportunity to see the unique geological formations here, as well as view the Zambezi River from the top and bottom of the Falls is not-to-be missed! The rest of the year, the Zambian side of the Falls provides an incredible up-close perspective of the Falls not offered by the Zimbabwe side. Please note that the spray from Victoria Falls can be quite wet. Bringing a waterproof bag for cameras and electronics, as well as a poncho for yourself, is highly advised.

After our tour, we are transferred back to our hotel. In the evening, optional opportunity to join a Boma dinner, which allows us to sample local specialties and experience a traditional drum performance! Details found in our “Notes” section.

Overnight: Ilala Lodge, Victoria Falls (Deluxe Room) (2 nights) (B)

Day 05: Victoria Falls

After breakfast, we take a guided walking tour of Victoria Falls from the Zimbabwe side, where we have a more panoramic view of the Falls, which is the iconic view we most see in photographs! We’ll wander through the lush and misty rainforest, stopping to watch, feel and listen to the spray and thunderous noise as millions of litres of water tumble down to the gorge below.

After our incredible experience of this world icon from both sides, we have time to relax before our late afternoon activity. Later, join our relaxing sundowner cruise on the mighty Zambezi River. As we drift along the river, put your feet up and sip a sundowner as the light gently fades. You'll have the finest vantage point from which to watch hippos, crocodiles and other animals coming down to the river's edge in the early evening to slake their thirst.  Enjoy your cocktail and snacks while capturing the sun’s rays, which create a beautiful orange reflection on the river. We are then transferred to our hotel with the balance of the evening free. (B)

Day 06: Victoria Falls/Nairobi (Flight) (KENYA)

After breakfast, we are transferred to the airport for our flight to Nairobi (not included in the tour cost – however, we are happy to assist with booking!). Depending on the day of the week, direct flights can be available from either VFA airport in Zimbabwe or LVI airport in Zambia. Upon arrival in Nairobi, we are warmly received and transferred to our hotel. Balance of the day is free.

Overnight: Eka Hotel, Nairobi (1 night) (B)

Upgrade to the Nairobi Serena Lodge available at US$ 70 per person

Day 07: Nairobi/Amboseli (Drive)

An exciting day ahead with a vibrant exploration of Nairobi. Marvel at the grand Parliament House, delve into Kenya's rich heritage at the Nairobi National Museum, encounter endangered Rothschild’s giraffes at the Giraffe Centre, and immerse yourself in the legacy of the renowned author of "Out of Africa" at the Karen Blixen Museum.

Following a delicious lunch, our safari adventure kicks off as we head to Amboseli National Park, a haven for photographers. Renowned for its breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro, the world’s tallest stand-alone mountain, Amboseli offers the perfect backdrop for capturing stunning images of vast herds of elephants on clear days. Join our expert guides on an afternoon game drive to discover prime wildlife spots and culminate the day with a breathtaking Kenyan sunset.

Overnight: Amboseli Serena Lodge, Amboseli (2 nights) (B, L, D)

Day 08: Amboseli

Embark on thrilling morning and afternoon game drives, immersing yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of one of Kenya’s most picturesque national parks. While encounters with majestic, big-tusk elephants are almost certain, be prepared for the possibility of spotting wildebeest, zebra, lion, cheetah, hyena, and a diverse array of the park’s 370 bird species. For a truly unique perspective, consider the option of a hot air balloon safari, providing a bird’s eye view of the mesmerizing wildlife below (refer to our “Notes” section for more details on this exhilarating experience, available in both Masai Mara and Serengeti).

Additionally, you have the opportunity to engage with the extraordinary Masai people, a proud warrior tribe committed to preserving their rich traditional culture and lifestyle. To ensure an enriching experience, advance booking is required for visits to the Masai village – consult our “Notes” section for details. (B, L, D)

Day 09: Amboseli/Lake Naivasha (Drive)

Take a scenic rural journey towards Lake Naivasha, a captivating freshwater lake surrounded by vibrant flower farms, traditional villages, and a rich variety of wildlife. Observe giraffes gracefully navigating the acacia-filled landscapes, witness buffalo leisurely wallowing in the swamps, and hear the calls of colobus monkeys echoing from the treetops. The lake hosts a considerable population of hippos, spending their days in serene shallows. Naivasha is also a haven for bird enthusiasts.

If time permits, consider a one-hour optional boat safari for an opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitats (refer to our “Notes” section for detailed information).

Overnight: Lake Naivasha Sopa Lodge, Lake Naivasha (1 night) (B, L, D)

Day 10: Lake Naivasha/Lake Nakuru (Drive)

Today marks a full day of exciting exploration as we delve into the wonders of the Great Rift Valley and Lake Nakuru National Park*. This park boasts a remarkable ecological diversity, hosting greater and lesser flamingos, along with over 80 bird species—an absolute delight for birdwatchers! Notably, the lake is a sanctuary for black and white rhinoceros.

Immerse yourself in the splendors of this wildlife haven with morning and afternoon game drives, interrupted only by a delightful lunch break at our lodge.

Overnight: Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge, Lake Nakuru (1 night) (B, L, D)

Day 11: Lake Nakuru/Masai Mara (Drive)

Depart on a rural countryside drive to the iconic Masai Mara—1,510 km² of wildlife wonders! This world-famous game park promises unforgettable adventures with incredible wildlife and stunning savannah landscapes.

Indulge in a hot lunch upon arrival, fueling excitement for our first Mara game safari. Picture lions, cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas freely roaming, offering close encounters. The Mara is also home to mighty elephants, graceful zebras, and fascinating hippos.

The real showstopper? The annual Great Migration! If we’re lucky, we’ll witness this spectacle of hundreds of thousands of wildebeest crossing the plains, revealing the remarkable cycle of life.

Overnight: Mara Serena Lodge, Masai Mara (2 nights) (B, L, D)

Day 12: Masai Mara

Get ready for an awesome day in the stunning Masai Mara, where we're in for some exciting wildlife encounters! With a constant water supply, this place is teeming with diverse and abundant game all year round. Cruise through scenic grasslands to spot the famous Big Five—elephants, buffalos, lions, leopards, and rhinos—adding that extra thrill to our safari. But wait, there's more! The Big Nine, including cheetahs, hippos, zebras, and giraffes, also call this incredible landscape home.

For an extraordinary experience, pre-book a hot air balloon safari, available at Mara, Amboseli, and Serengeti parks. This safari offers a breathtaking bird's eye view, followed by a luxurious open-air champagne breakfast - see details in our “Notes” section. (B, L, D)

Day 13: Masai Mara/Lake Victoria (Drive) (TANZANIA)

Journey from Masai Mara to the shores of Tanzania's Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa. Our adventure begins at the Isebania border, where we seamlessly cross into Tanzania, bidding farewell to our Kenyan safari guide. A seasoned Tanzanian guide takes the reins as we switch to a Tanzanian-registered vehicle for the next leg of our journey, heading towards the Speke Bay area of Lake Victoria.

Lake Victoria, roughly the size of Ireland, holds fame as the Nile River's source. After arriving in Lake Victoria, the day is yours to enjoy the serene lake. Explore local villages, witness fishing towns, boats, and dhows, and catch glimpses of children playing. Your overnight stay is along the picturesque shores of the lake.

Overnight: Serenity Eco Resort, Lake Victoria (1 night) (B, L, D)

Day 14: Lake Victoria/Serengeti (Drive)

If you're an early riser, there's a fantastic opportunity for optional activities like boating or canoeing on Lake Victoria or exploring a local fishing village (it's advisable to pre-book; check out the details in our “Notes” section). Following an early lunch, our journey continues to the breathtaking Serengeti National Park*, entering through the Ndabaka Gate on the western side. As we cross the gate, get ready to witness a wealth of game as we safari through the western corridor toward the heart of the park.

Serengeti takes the spotlight for the Great Migration, an awe-inspiring spectacle where over two million wildebeest and other large mammals cross the plains and Grumeti River, trailed by thousands of predators. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and we’ll hopefully be lucky enough to see it! Wrap up your day with dinner at our lodge nestled in the heart of Serengeti.

Overnight: Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge, Serengeti (2 nights) (B, L, D)

Day 15: Serengeti

A full day of game drives is spent in the extraordinary Serengeti, a vast 14,763 km² expanse nearly 10 times the size of Masai Mara—truly one of the world's most unique areas. This pristine wilderness hosts the largest concentration of plains game in Africa, including lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, and the Big Five. Today is an opportunity for wonder and discovery, immersing yourself in the Serengeti's grand landscapes and wildlife.

An optional hot air balloon safari is also available this morning - see details in our “Notes” section. (B, L, D)

Day 16: Serengeti/Ngorongoro Crater (Drive)

Enjoy our final Serengeti game drive this morning, exploring Moro Kopjes and Gol Kopjes. These vast grasslands are punctuated with kopjes, rocky outcrops resembling islands on the flat plain, each hosting unique wildlife communities. Discover the Seronera River, meandering through the park, serving as a vital habitat for various birds, mammals, and reptiles. In the afternoon, we head to Nabi Hill gate for a delightful picnic lunch. Our journey continues to the renowned Olduvai Gorge, one of the world's most significant paleoanthropological sites. Consider an optional stop at the site and museum (details in our “Notes” section) to delve into the site's invaluable insights into human evolution. Finally, we proceed to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, where we spend our evening.

Overnight: Ngorongoro Serena Lodge, Ngorongoro (1 night) (B, L, D)

Day 17: Ngorongoro Crater/Lake Manyara (Drive)

Discover the expansive Ngorongoro Conservation Area*, featuring highland plains, savanna, woodlands, and forests. Its centerpiece, the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, is the world's largest caldera. Descend into this natural wonder for an unparalleled day of game-viewing. The crater is a sanctuary for around 30,000 large mammals, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, hyenas, hippos, wildebeests, baboons, gazelles, the endangered black rhino, and numerous other species.

Following a day of remarkable game-viewing, our journey continues to Lake Manyara. As we approach the lake, the captivating beauty that Ernest Hemingway called “the loveliest I had seen in Africa” unfolds before us. For those seeking a unique adventure, consider the option of a thrilling night drive, where we track predators and other nocturnal animals (pre-booking recommended, details in our “Notes” section).

Overnight: Lake Manyara Serena Lodge, Lake Manyara (1 night) (B, L, D)

Day 18: Lake Manyara/Depart Arusha

After breakfast, dive into African village life on a guided walking tour in Mto wa Mbu. Witness the lively scenes of 120 tribes coexisting, from people selling vegetables to playful interactions. Engage with locals, gaining insights into their way of life, and end the experience with a special home-cooked meal featuring authentic African cuisine.

Later, we head to Arusha for airport transfers. The first drop is at Arusha Airport (ARK) around 2:00 PM, followed by Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) at about 4:30 PM. Ensure your onward flights allow for at least a 2-hour gap from our scheduled arrival times. Explore further by extending your safari adventure—relax at the enchanting Indian Ocean Island of Zanzibar or witness critically endangered mountain gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda. Contact Bestway for details and suggestions. (B, L)

B=Breakfast, Sn=Snack, L=Lunch, D=Dinner

Departure Dates & Prices

We accept payments in US$, CA$ as well as in other convertible currencies like EUR, AUD and GBP. Tour prices have been costed in US$. CA$ price shown below is an indicative amount reached at by using the conversion rate at the time of web posting and will be applicable if there is no change in the conversion rate. Should the currency conversion rate change, the US$ pricing will prevail. Bestway Tours & Safaris offers a conversion rate protection. Once full payment has been received and no modification has been made to the tour itinerary, we will honour that rate. For complete payment procedures, please click here

Notes

Inclusions

Participants

This tour operates on a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 7 participants

Customised Itinerary

If you would like to have a tour on dates other than the above ones or with a customised itinerary, please contact us and we will be happy to work out an exclusive program for you.

Contact Info
Email us at bestway@bestway.com or call 1-604-264-7378. Residents of U.S.A./Canada may call us toll free at 1-800-663-0844.

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