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Camping Tours / Wildlife Training Courses / Victoria Falls

21 Day African Expedition

A small group participation Camping & Lodge Safari from Livingstone to
Johannesburg through Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique and South Africa

Highlights
Victoria Falls, Zambezi River Canoeing, South Luangwa National Park, Lake Malawi, Mulanje Massive, Chicambe, Vilanculous & Benguerra Islands, Maputo, Kruger National Park.

DAY 1: Victoria Falls, Livingstone in Zambia D
We start our expedition at one of the seven Natural Wonders - the great Victoria Falls. You'll be picked up at the airport in Livingstone and transferred to the Zambezi Waterfront. The rest of the day is at leisure and you'll have the opportunity to participate in one of many activities offered in and around the Victoria Falls area, such as Bungee jumping, elephant-back safari, white water rafting, and a helicopter flight over the Falls, or else just explore this amazing area on foot. There will be a pre-departure meeting with you guide at 6pm this evening.
Distance: 20 km
Accommodation: Zambezi Waterfront Adventure Village (Tented accommodation with beds, communal ablutions, swimming pool, bar & restaurant)

DAY 2: Canoeing on the Zambezi River, Zambia BLD
The next day will be spent canoeing through the Zambezi River in close encounters with large herds of elephants while canoeing along the river channels. In the late afternoon we reach one of the numerous islands where we will pitch our camps for the night.
Departure: 08h00
Accommodation: camping on an island (tents, no facilities)

DAY 3: Canoeing on the Zambezi River, Zambia BLD
After breakfast we step back in our canoes and take a slow canoe back through the unspoilt nature to our starting point while listening to the haunting cry of the fish eagle. In the afternoon we arrive back at our camp
Departure: 08h00
Accommodation: Zambezi Waterfront Village (Tented accommodation with beds, communal ablutions, swimming pool, bar & restaurant)

DAY 4: Livingstone - Lusaka, Zambia BLD
On day 4 we make our way up north to the energetic city of Lusaka passing through the vast wilderness of Zambia. We set up our camp outside the buzzing town.
Distance: 480 km Departure: 08h00
Accommodation: Pioneer Camp (tents, communal bathrooms, swimming pool, bar & restaurant)

DAY 5: Lusaka - Chipata, Zambia BLD
Today our journey takes us through the east of Zambia along the Lower Zambezi National Park to Chipata. This place lies close to the border to Malawi and is our last stopover before we enter again the real wilderness - the South Luangwa National Park.
Distance: 618 Departure: 7h00
Accommodation: Chipata Camping (Tents, communal bathrooms)

Day 6 - 7: South Luangwa National Park, Zambia BLD, BLD
We enter South Luangwa National Park - the jewel of Africa's wildest and most remote national parks, which offers 100 different mammal species and a splendid birdlife. The park comprises a rich mosaic of habitats - from dense mopane forest and riverside woodland to open grassland plains and sheltered pools. The next two days are spent on game drives and game walks (depending on weather conditions) to see some of the various elephants, giraffes, impala, puku, buffalo, hippopotamus, zebras and more. This combination lets you encounter both extremes - the typical safari 'mega fauna' as well as the subtle details at your feet. If we are lucky we could spot two species of animals, which cannot be found anywhere else in Africa: the Thornicroft giraffe and the cookson's wildebeest. The park is also famous for its lions, leopards, and hyenas.
Distance: 150 km Departure: 8h00
Accommodation: Wildlife Camp (tents, communal bathrooms, bar & restaurant)

Day 8 - 9: Monkey Bay, Malawi BLD, BLD
Leaving the South Luangwa National Park, we cross the border to Malawi and enter the 'Warm heart of Africa'. Driving eastwards we get a good idea of the Malawian lifestyle and will finally reach Lake Malawi, which forms the southern peak of the Great Rift Valley. Lake Malawi is the ninth largest lake in the world and filled with fresh water. Most of the villages are located around the lake and you'll get in contact with the local people easily as the lakeshore is communal property. The next day we will explore the beauty and secrets of the lake during an exciting kayak trip.
Distance: 300 km Departure: 8h00
Accommodation: Camping in Monkey Bay (tents, communal bathrooms, bar & restaurant)

Day 10 - 12: Mulanje Massive, Malawi BLD, BLD, BLD
We leave the beach and travel to the mountains and reach a great location for trekking and hiking, with plenty of terrific opportunities for photographers - the Mulanje Massive. This mountain is over 130 million years old and covered with a variety of different vegetation that are waiting to be explored by us. The next three days we spend with hikes on this Massive until our feet get tired. In the evening we'll enjoy our supper around the campfire even more.
Day 10:
Distance: 350 km Departure: 8h00
Accommodation: Camping inside Mulanje National Park (tents, communal bathrooms)

Day 13: Blantyre/Tete, Malawi BLD
After our breakfast we step back in our vehicle and continue our journey driving south direction Blantyre and Tete. Blantyre is one of the main cities in Malawi and buzzing with city life so different to the Lake Malawi-lifestyle. This is our last stopover before we leave Malawi and enter Mozambique. If the time allows we might also drive all the way to Tete on the Zambezi River and put up our camp here.
Distance: 385 km Departure: 9h00
Accommodation: Camping outside of Blantyre or Tete (tents, communal bathrooms)

Day 14: Chicamba, Mozambique BLD
Today we enter Mozambique - a country offering an enticing and fascinating blend of cultures. The picturesque village Chicambe is our first stop and here we can stock up on fresh fruit and vegetables. From a vantage point near the dam control room we have unimpeded views of the entire Chicamba Real Dam. A crocodile farm visit can be organized for you.
Distance: 390 km Departure: 8h00
Accommodation: Camping in Chicamba (tents, communal bathrooms)

Day 15: Vilanculous, Mozambique BLD
Back on the road the next morning we drive to the warm coast of the Indian Ocean in the east of Mozambique. The village Vilanculous is close to the beach and just about halfway between Maputo and Beira. Here we'll ourselves back in civilization with buzzing markets, restaurants, public phones, banks and quaint supermarkets.
Distance: 460 km Departure: 8h00
Accommodation: Camping in Vilanculous (tents, communal bathrooms, bar & restaurant)

Day 16: Benguerra Islands, Mozambique BLD
Today we leave the mainland Mozambique's and step on a boat to sail over the warm, blue waters of the Indian Ocean to the Benguerra Islands, just off the coast. Since Benguerra is blessed with the most intact area of indigenous dine forest of all the islands, it probably offers the best birding as well. Freshwater lakes, surrounded by stunning golden dunes are awaiting us. Be careful - crocodiles are living in here.
After spending the day on the island we head back to the mainland and back to our camp.
Accommodation: Camping in Vilanculous (tents, communal bathrooms, bar & restaurant)

Day 17: Inhambane, Mozambique BLD
On day 17 we drive along the coast to the sleepy and neat town of Inhambane. Hundreds of graceful dhows on the usually tranquil water are one of Inhambane's most obvious features. The town probably has the largest working fleet of Dhows on the East African coastline. We'll spend the afternoon relaxing on one of these dhows. Inhambane also offers several points of interest for sight seeing.
Distance: 250 km Departure: 9h00
Accommodation: Camping Barra Reef (tents, communal bathrooms, bar & restaurant)

Day 18: Maputo, Mozambique BLD
Today we visit Mozambique's sprawling capital Maputo. Under Portuguese influence it became one of Africa's most beautiful and fashionable cities, and over the years it has maintained its historical and cultural charm. This bustling city has an impressive skyline and boasts a unique combination of Portuguese and African atmospheres. In the evening we'll enjoy our dinner with the fish and seafood the city is renowned for.
Distance: 430 km Departure: 8h00
Accommodation: Ibis Hotel, Maputo (Rooms with en-suite bathrooms, bar & restaurant)

Day 19 - 20: Kruger National Park, South Africa BLD
Leaving Mozambique we enter the rainbow nation South Africa and make our way to Kruger National Park. Depending on the time of arrival we either enter the park and overnight in the park or camp just outside the park and enter the park the next morning.
On Day 20 we spend our time on a game drive through the National Park, hoping to spot some of the Big 5 and other game.
Distance: 130 km Departure: 8h00
Accommodation: Berg en Dal Campsite (Tents, communal bathrooms, swimming pool, and restaurant)

Day 21: Johannesburg, South Africa B
Today is our last day of this incredible expedition. We end our long journey in Johannesburg. Here we can drop you off at the airport or at your accommodation in Johannesburg. Ending this tour we hope you'll never forget this diverse and adventurous trip.

Meal Key B - Breakfast L - Lunch D - Dinner

Group size Minimum: 4 , Maximum: 10

2009 Per Person Rate: US$ 2605.00. Local payment US$ 460.00

Departure Dates 2009: June 07/28, July 12, August 09/30 September 13, October 12

Included in the price
All transport in fully kitted 4x4 safari vehicle or appropriate vehicle, use of full camping equipment, game drives as mentioned, meals and activities as mentioned in itinerary, camping and park entrance fees, experienced local guide.
Not included in the price
Pre and post tour accommodation, Alcoholic drinks, tips and curios.

Pre and post tour accommodation and transfers can be arranged on request.
Standard Chalet, Zambezi Waterfront (Livingstone) = From U$ 70 pp Sharing (BB), From U$ 95 pp Single (BB)
One way Airport Transfer (Zambezi Waterfront, Livingstone) = U$16 pp (based on minimum of 2 people)
Standard Room, Airport Lodge (Johannesburg) = From R 270 pp Sharing (BB), From R 350 pp Single (BB)
Complimentary Airport Transfers

Transport:
Operator uses fully equipped Toyota 4x4 land cruisers or other appropriate vehicles with comfortable seating, large windows for game viewing and a music system. An off-road trailer is fitted with a field kitchen. All luggage is carried on the vehicle or trailer roof racks to ensure maximum comfort in the vehicle.
Accommodation:
Accommodation on our camping safaris is 2 guests per 3-person dome tents, fitted with mosquito nets. Operator provides sleeping mattresses.
The accommodations used will be comfortable and clean of a mid range standard.
Spending money:
Clients are advised to bring enough money to cover the purchase of curios, tips, alcoholic drinks and additional entertainment. US Dollars, Pound Sterling are the most practical and convenient currencies.
Meals:
All meals are organized by the guide and are prepared by him/her with the help of the group Meals are nutritious and filling, drawing on fresh local produce where possible. We buy groceries along the way, so our clients have a say in what type of meals are eaten. Please advise us of any special dietary requirements in advance.
First Aid:
Our guides are trained in basic first aid and the vehicle is equipped with a comprehensive medical aid kit. Preventative Malaria medication should be taken before the trip and throughout its duration, although it is advisable to consult a doctor prior to departure.
Luggage:
Maximum baggage allowance: 12 kg. Jenman Safaris stipulates this luggage allowance, as an overloaded vehicle is a danger to both the clients and the guide. This does not include photographic equipment and a small daypack. Please bring a backpack or soft barrel bag, not a suitcase. Don't bring too much clothing, as there are washing opportunities along the way. Please adhere to the allowance specified as space for luggage is limited.
Insurance:
It is compulsory for all travelers to have insurance covering their personal requirements, medical expenses and personal possessions. This is to be arranged before leaving your home country.
Participation:
The African Expedition is a participating camping safari. This means, that the participants will be responsible for performing and helping with certain tasks as i.e. setting up the overnight camps (tents, chairs, tables), cooking meals and cleaning dishes afterwards, tidying up the campsite before leaving and packing and un-packing of the vehicle and tents.
Sleeping bags:
Operator can provide sleeping bags. A fee of US$ 30 / Euro 25 will be charged for the whole tour.
Visas:
The onus is on the client to organize all visas required to visit Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, Swaziland and South Africa prior to departure.

Information on areas visited

Zambia
To explore Zambia is to step back into the untamed Africa of legend. It is the real Africa with vast, unspoilt wilderness areas waiting to be discovered. The country is shaped by three great rivers, bordered by three breathtaking lakes and sheltered by big, big skies. It is a land that beckons adventurers and those who prefer to avoid the busy tourist destinations.
While thrill seekers can try the white water frenzy of the Zambezi River or the adrenaline choked bungee jump from the Victoria Falls Bridge, Zambia also offers fine wildlife safaris. It is a place the African walking safari with great hiking trails, glorious sunsets, friendly people, ancient traditions and mystic legends of nature at its wildest and most exquisite.

Victoria Falls
'So lovely it must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight' said David Livingstone of the supreme Mosi-oa-Tunya ('The smoke that thunders'). This legendary traveler first saw the Falls from the Zambian side and his memory is enshrined in the nearby town of Livingstone. The views from the Zimbabwean & Zambian side are quite different, varying dramatically depending on the season and water flow.
The Falls are over a mile in length and boast the largest curtain of water in the world - over 500 million liters or water per minute go over the falls and drop 100 m at Rainbow Falls on the Zambian side. Not surprisingly is it the seventh wonder of the world and fast becoming one of the top adventure destinations in the world.
The river is divided into a series of braided channels that descend in many separate falls. Below the Falls the river enters a narrow series of gorges, which represent locations successively occupied by the falls earlier in their history. Since the uplifting of the Makgadikgadi Pan area some two million years ago, the Zambezi River has been cutting through the basalt base rock, exploiting weak fissures, and forming a series of retreating gorges. Seven previous waterfalls occupied the seven gorges below the present falls, and Devil's Cataract in Zimbabwe is where the next cut back will form a new waterfall that will eventually leave the present falls lip high above the river in the gorge below.

Malawi
A country known as 'the warm heart of Africa'. Malawi's scenery is gorgeous and varied and Malawians tend to be extremely friendly toward travelers. Nature lovers will adore the national parks and game reserves, mountain hiking and plateau trekking.
Lake Malawi
Lake Malawi is the ninth largest lake in the world and covers approximately 29,600 km². With a length of 560 km it forms most of the eastern border between Malawi and Mozambique. It is a fresh water lake and habits a greater variety of indigenous species of fish than any other lake in the world. You can find over 550 species of cichlids and a lot of other brightly colored and patterned fish. Other residents are numerous crocodiles and a large population of fish eagles. In the lake itself are two inhabited islands, Chizumulu and Likoma. Both islands have a large number of Baobab trees and are home to a population of several thousand people, who grow cassava, bananas and mangos, as well as fishing the waters of the lake.
Mulanje Massive
Stunning scenery, easy access, clear paths and well-maintained huts make Mount Mulanje a fine hiking and trekking area. The mountain rises steeply and suddenly from the undulating plain to the highlands, surrounded by near-vertical cliffs of bare rock, many over 1000m high. Mulanje's peaks (including the highest in the country, Sapitwa, at just over 3000m) often jut above the mist that frequently surrounds the upper slopes, giving the mountain one of its local names, 'Island in the Sky'.
You can reach most of the peaks without resorting to technical climbing. If you're thinking of visiting, be prepared for sudden downward shifts in temperature, rain and poor visibility at any time of year. Buses run between Blantyre and Mulanje town, which is located in the southeastern corner of Malawi, about 290km southeast of Lilongwe.

Mozambique
Compared to other Southern African countries, Mozambique has considerably lower numbers of wildlife. This is due to Mozambique's civil upheaval, during which large-scale organised poaching systematically removed almost all big game from the bush. Mozambicans were unfortunately reduced to hunter-gatherer status and in some areas even locusts and ants were harvested almost to extinction. Birdlife has recovered to some extent but only the most remote areas offer the chance to view African wildlife, including the Big Five - but it must be on foot and with experienced guides.
Maputo Elephant Reserve is home to about 400 elephants, which migrate between South Africa and Mozambique. The birdlife is varied and abundant, but infrastructure is minimal and roads are poor. Camping is an option at either Ponta Milibangalala or Ponta Dobela, but the water in the wells there needs to be purified before drinking.
Reserva do Niassa is a remote area that has provided refuge to around 12,000 elephant and the last of Mozambique's buffalo, sable and roan herds. Independent visitors are not encouraged, as this area is currently being redeveloped, however, it is possible to go into the area with a game guard ranger. The nearby Jurege River proved excellent game viewing (though it is dry from June to December).
Although the Bazaruto Archipelago consists of five islands (in size order: Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque, Santa Carolina and Bangue), only Bazaruto and surrounding reefs are officially within a National Park. These waters are home to over 80% of all marine fish families of the Indo-Pacific. Resident Minke and Southern right whales abound in this area, alongside common, spinner and bottlenose dolphins and the highly threatened dugong.
Benguerra Island
Benguerra is the second largest Island of five along the Mozambican Channel and part of the Bazaruto Archipelago. Due to its ecosystem, which consists of forest, savannah and wetland it has a great diversity of flora and fauna and was declared to a National Park in 1971. Bird lovers will enjoy the over 164 species of birds while others will prefer the amazing underwater world. You can go diving and explore numerous reefs, old wrecks and tropical fishes, do some fly fishing as well as big game fishing or just relax at the wonderful beaches.
Maputo
Maputo is the lively capital of Mozambique and habits about two million people. The city is trying to get back to its old glamour and attraction, but there is still a lot to do:
Enjoy a coffee at the Portuguese pastel arias, taste Mozambique's famous spicy peri-peri prawns and take a walk around the city. There you will find Mozambique's first university, several museums or the Roman Catholic Cathedral. Furthermore you should explore the surrounding of Maputo and make a trip to Inhaca Island to visit the fascinating maritime museum and historic lighthouse. In the north you can relax on spectacular beaches and dive between coral reefs. Another highlight is the Maputo Elephant Reserve where are crocs, hippos, antelopes and over 180 elephants to spot.
Vilanculous
Vilanculous is located 700 km north of Maputo on the San Sebastian Peninsula. It is a small bustling seaside town with a welcoming atmosphere. There are a lot of little shops to explore and a lively market where you can find fresh produce and every kind of fish imaginable. As soon as it is getting dark it is time to experience the splendid nightlife of Vilanculous and its bars and restaurants. The days are spent at the beautiful beaches or with day trips to one of the islands of the magnificent Bazaruto Archipelago. Furthermore you can go diving, fishing and sea kayaking or have a look to the great diversity of birdlife of the Coastal Wildlife Sanctuary.

South Africa
Situated on the tip of the African continent, South Africa has often been described as a world in one country. It has a wealth of natural beauty, pristine wilderness areas, warm and friendly people, cosmopolitan cities and excellent infrastructure - making South Africa a favourite safari destination.

Kruger National Park
The world-renowned Kruger National Park offers a wildlife experience that ranks with the best in Africa. Established in 1898 to protect the wildlife of the South African Lowveld, this national park of nearly 2 million hectares, SANParks - Kruger National Park is unrivalled in the diversity of its life forms and a world leader in advanced environmental management techniques and policies.
Truly the flagship of the South African national parks, Kruger is home to an impressive number of species: 336 trees, 49 fish, 34 amphibians, 114 reptiles, 507 birds and 147 mammals. Man's interaction with the Lowveld environment over many centuries - from bushman rock paintings to majestic archaeological sites like Masorini and Thulamela - is very evident in the Kruger National Park. These treasures represent the cultures, persons and events that played a role in the history of the Kruger National Park and are conserved along with the park's natural assets.