13-Day Victoria Falls to Dar es Salaam Lodge Overland Tour
Embark on an unforgettable Victoria Falls to Dar es Salaam Lodge Overland Tour that travels through Zambia, Malawi, and Tanzania. Starting at the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, this tour journeys across the Great Rift Valley, through iconic wildlife areas like South Luangwa National Park and Mikumi National Park, and along the tranquil shores of Lake Malawi, before ending on the vibrant Indian Ocean coastline in Dar es Salaam. Stay in comfortable lodges throughout this budget-friendly African overland safari adventure.
Quick Itinerary Overview
Begin your journey in Livingstone, Zambia, where you’ll witness the spectacular Victoria Falls. Travel through the unspoiled wilderness of South Luangwa National Park, relax on the shores of Lake Malawi, and ascend into the Southern Highlands of Tanzania. Explore Mikumi National Park and conclude your adventure in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s bustling coastal capital. This lodge overland safari is perfect for travelers seeking comfort, wildlife, and cultural encounters.
Responsible Travel Note
We do not support or endorse wildlife interaction activities such as walking with lions or riding elephants. These activities can harm animals and disrupt their natural behavior. Please read our blog post on responsible tourism for more information.
Itinerary: Victoria Falls to Dar es Salaam Lodge Overland Tour
Day 1: Livingstone (Victoria Falls) to Lusaka – Zambia
Start your overland tour on the Zambian side of Victoria Falls. Depart early and journey through Southern Zambia, enjoying views of rural life. Overnight at a lodge near Lusaka, where wildlife like giraffes and zebra may be seen.
Day 2: Lusaka to Petauke – Zambia
Travel along the Great East Road, passing through Zambia’s capital, Lusaka. Visit the colorful Luangwa Market before overnighting in the town of Petauke.
- Included Activity: Luangwa Market Visit
Day 3–4: Petauke to South Luangwa National Park – Zambia
Stop at Mulberry Mongoose for unique local jewelry before reaching South Luangwa National Park. Stay two nights at a scenic tented lodge by the Luangwa River. Enjoy a sunset game drive and optional walking safari or morning game drive in this renowned park known for leopards, elephants, and hippos.
- Included: Sunset Game Drive
- Optional: Walking Safari or Game Drive
Day 5–6: South Luangwa to Ngala Beach (Lake Malawi) – Malawi
Cross into Malawi and relax at a lakefront lodge on the central shores of Lake Malawi. Enjoy optional activities like snorkeling, kayaking, or hiking. The lake is famous for its vibrant cichlid fish and peaceful scenery.
Day 7: Ngala Beach to Chitimba – Malawi
Drive north along Lake Malawi’s shoreline, stopping for a local village tour before overnighting in Chitimba. Enjoy a serene lakeside sunset at your lodge.
- Included Activity: Village Walking Tour
Day 8: Lake Malawi to Mbeya Mountains – Tanzania
Enter Tanzania and ascend into the Mbeya Mountains, a fertile highland area known for coffee production. Overnight at a scenic plantation lodge.
Day 9: Mbeya to Iringa – Tanzania
Visit a local coffee plantation before heading to Iringa. Overnight at a lodge with stunning views over the Ruaha River Valley, and explore Iringa’s colonial architecture and cultural history.
- Included Activity: Coffee Plantation Tour
Day 10–11: Iringa to Mikumi National Park – Tanzania
Travel through Baobab Valley to reach Mikumi National Park. Stay in a safari camp near the park gate and enjoy optional game drives. The park is home to elephants, lions, zebras, and over 400 bird species.
- Included Activity: Baobab Valley Visit
- Optional: Game Drive in Mikumi, Cultural Tours
Day 12: Mikumi to Dar es Salaam – Tanzania
Descend to the Indian Ocean and arrive in Dar es Salaam. Explore the bustling city, visit Bongoyo Island, and enjoy fresh seafood on the waterfront. Overnight at a comfortable city hotel.
Day 13: Dar es Salaam – Tanzania
After breakfast, your Victoria Falls to Dar es Salaam Lodge Overland Tour ends. Say farewell to your group and prepare for onward travel.
Travel Notes
- We recommend arriving in Livingstone a day early and departing Dar es Salaam a day after the tour for added flexibility.
- Pre- and post-tour accommodation can be added upon request.
- This tour is also available in reverse as the Dar es Salaam to Victoria Falls Lodge Overland Tour.
- A camping version of this itinerary is also available.
This Victoria Falls to Dar es Salaam Lodge Overland Tour offers a perfect mix of wildlife encounters, scenic landscapes, cultural immersion, and relaxing lakeside stays, all while enjoying the comfort of lodge accommodation. Book your African adventure today!