The Victoria Falls to Zanzibar 16-day journey begins at the majestic Victoria Falls, where the Zambezi River plunges into a thunderous gorge before travelling north through Zambia, Malawi and Tanzania to the Indian Ocean coast. From Livingstone, venture into Zambia’s renowned South Luangwa National Park for open-vehicle game drives in search of elephant, lion, hippo and abundant birdlife across one of Africa’s most celebrated wildlife areas. Crossing into Malawi, pause along the shores of Lake Malawi, where crystal-clear waters, traditional fishing villages and relaxed lakeside settings provide a striking contrast to the safari landscapes. Continuing through Tanzania, the route moves toward the coast before concluding on Zanzibar Island, where guided exploration of historic Stone Town and visits to fragrant spice plantations are paired with time on white-sand beaches along the Indian Ocean. Blending river, savannah, freshwater lake and tropical coastline, this 16-day overland safari captures the diversity of south-central and East Africa in one seamless journey.

Highlights

This Zanzibar & Vic Falls route is available in two travel styles: Explorer (camping) and Classic (accommodated). Both follow the same expertly guided itinerary, travelling through Tanzania, Malawi and Zambia while offering different accommodation experiences.
Explorer is our authentic camping option, providing a spacious dome tent (2.4m x 2.4m) with a 5cm-thick mattress. Travellers will need to bring their own sleeping bag and participate in certain camp duties, creating a hands-on overland adventure.
Classic offers greater comfort, with accommodation in permanent tents, guesthouses, lodges and hotels along the route, while maintaining the same immersive safari and overland experience.

Classic Tents

 

Permanent Tents

 

Hotels & Resorts

 

Lodges & Guesthouses

 

The Zanzibar to Victoria Falls 16-day journey links the spice-scented streets of Zanzibar with the thunderous spectacle of Victoria Falls, combining coastline, lake shores and classic safari landscapes across Tanzania, Malawi and Zambia. Begin on Zanzibar Island with guided exploration of historic Stone Town and visits to fragrant spice plantations, followed by time along white-sand beaches on the Indian Ocean. Travelling inland, pause on the tranquil shores of Lake Malawi, where clear waters and vibrant local communities offer a striking contrast to the savannah that follows. In Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park, open-vehicle game drives reveal elephant, lion, leopard and prolific birdlife in one of Africa’s most celebrated wildlife regions. The journey concludes near Victoria Falls in Livingstone, where the Zambezi plunges in mist and thunder. Blending tropical coastline, freshwater landscapes and exceptional safari encounters, this 16-day overland route captures the diversity of south-central Africa in one seamless adventure.

Vistas and vibrancy await you on this escapade from Victoria Fall’s curtains to Zanzibar’s shorelines. Travelling from the Zambian side of Victoria Falls, we bid adieu to “Musi oa Tunya” (the Smoke that Thunders) as the scenery unfolds in colourful roadside markets and green rural pastures that stretch beneath endless skies.

From Lusaka to Petauke, the road winds through Zambia’s rolling hills. Along the way, we pause at Luangwa Market, where stalls practically spill over with curios, fresh fruit, and handmade treasures that capture the soul of local craftsmanship.

Continuing on the road, we come to South Luangwa National Park, a sanctuary of unspoiled wilderness teeming with animals to be discovered. On the way, we visit Mulberry Mongoose, where local artisans craft jewellery from recovered poacher’s snares. We take a full day to uncover the spectacles that South Luangwa has to offer. As twilight descends, a sunset drive offers a rare glimpse into the park’s nocturnal world, where elusive creatures stir under a blanket of stars.

Retreating from the savannah, we enter Malawi and drive to the lake for which it is known. Containing more fish species than any other lake, its refreshing waters are a delight for snorkelling and swimming, and the peaceful atmosphere is perfect for basking under the African sun. Birders will be pleased to know that this area houses over 650 bird species, with plenty of waterfowl to spot.

Tanzania opens its arms to you with terrain patched in green and gold. Iringa presents the process of Tanzanian coffee from bean to mug at a local plantation. The road gives way to wild horizons on our approach to Mikumi National Park, stopping at the hauntingly beautiful Baobab Valley for photo opportunities.

We proceed to the sea-salted air of Zanzibar, a coastal getaway of dazzling culture and tranquil relaxation. From the banquet of marine activities to the many flavourful restaurants, you’ll never grow bored on this island. We will wander through Stone Town’s rich history, with aromatic spice farms providing a sensory platter to witness the harvesting process.

After soaking in the magic of the island, return to Dar es Salaam where your journey concludes, treasuring your resonance with the East African wilderness and exotic excitements you have experienced.