13-Day Victoria Falls to Dar es Salaam Overland Camping Safari
Embark on an unforgettable Victoria Falls to Dar es Salaam Overland Camping Safari, a budget-friendly African adventure that journeys from Zambia to the Tanzanian coast. This camping safari takes you from the thunderous Victoria Falls through the Great Rift Valley, scenic national parks, and the tranquil shores of Lake Malawi, before ending in the coastal city of Dar es Salaam.
Quick Itinerary Overview
Starting in Livingstone, Zambia, home to the mighty Victoria Falls, this overland safari travels through rural Zambia and the wildlife-rich South Luangwa National Park. You’ll then explore the tranquil waters of Lake Malawi, ascend the Great Rift Valley, and traverse the lush Southern Highlands of Tanzania. The journey ends in Dar es Salaam on the Indian Ocean coast, with nights spent at scenic campsites along the way.
Responsible Travel Note
We are committed to ethical wildlife tourism. This safari discourages wildlife interaction experiences such as walking with lions or riding elephants. These activities compromise animal welfare and contradict conservation principles.
Victoria Falls to Dar es Salaam Overland Camping Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Livingstone to Lusaka – Zambia
Begin your journey at Victoria Falls, known locally as “Mosi oa Tunya” – the Smoke that Thunders. Enjoy activities like white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and helicopter rides before departing early through rural Southern Zambia. Overnight near Lusaka in a bush campsite frequented by giraffes, zebras, and abundant birdlife.
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Lusaka to Petauke – Zambia
Travel along Zambia’s Great East Road, crossing the impressive Luangwa River Bridge. Stop at Luangwa Market to browse local crafts and produce. Overnight at a campsite in Petauke.
Included Activity: Luangwa Market Stop
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3 & 4: Petauke to South Luangwa National Park – Zambia
Visit Mulberry Mongoose to see handcrafted jewelry made by local women. Spend two nights camping beside the Luangwa River, exploring South Luangwa National Park, known for its leopard population and walking safaris.
Included Activities: Mulberry Mongoose Visit, Sunset Game Drive
Optional Activities: Morning Game Drive or Walking Safari (seasonal)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (x2)
Day 5 & 6: South Luangwa to Ngala Beach (Lake Malawi) – Malawi
Cross into Malawi and unwind at Ngala Beach along the pristine shores of Lake Malawi. Enjoy optional activities like kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking.
Optional Activities: Snorkeling, Horse Riding, Hiking, Volunteering, Kayaking
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (x2)
Day 7: Northern Lake Malawi – Malawi
Continue north along Lake Malawi, visiting a local fishing village for a guided cultural walking tour. Camp at Chitimba and watch the sun set over the water.
Included Activity: Village Walking Tour
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 8: Lake Malawi to Mbeya Mountains – Tanzania
Enter Tanzania and ascend into the Mbeya Highlands, known for coffee farming. Overnight in a shared bungalow at a scenic coffee plantation near Mbeya.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 9: Mbeya to Iringa – Tanzania
Visit a coffee plantation to sample local brews. Camp near Iringa in the Southern Highlands, overlooking the Ruaha River Valley. Explore Iringa’s colonial architecture and vibrant market.
Included Activity: Coffee Plantation Visit
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 10 & 11: Iringa to Mikumi National Park – Tanzania
Pass through Baobab Valley before arriving at Mikumi National Park. Stay two nights at a safari camp near the park entrance. Optional game drives are available to spot elephants, lions, zebras, and more.
Included Activity: Baobab Valley Visit
Optional Activity: Game Drive in Mikumi National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (x2)
Day 12: Mikumi to Dar es Salaam – Tanzania
Arrive in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s coastal capital. Relax by the Indian Ocean or explore local attractions like Bongoyo Island, the National Museum, and the vibrant fish markets. Overnight at a hotel in the city.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 13: Departure – Dar es Salaam
Your 13-day Victoria Falls to Dar es Salaam Overland Camping Safari ends after breakfast. Say farewell to your travel companions and prepare for onward travel.
Meals: Breakfast
Travel Notes
We recommend arriving in Livingstone one day before the safari starts and flying out of Dar es Salaam one day after it ends to accommodate potential travel delays. Our travel consultants can assist with pre- and post-safari accommodation.
This itinerary is also available in reverse as the Dar es Salaam to Victoria Falls Overland Camping Safari. A lodge-accommodation version of this route is also available for those who prefer more comfort while traveling.
Join this incredible Victoria Falls to Dar es Salaam Overland Camping Safari and experience the best of East and Southern Africa’s wilderness, cultures, and coastlines on a guided group adventure you’ll never forget.