16-Day Zambia, Malawi & Tanzania Safari – Overland Lodge Tour
Experience the best of East Africa on this exciting Zambia, Malawi & Tanzania Safari. This overland tour begins in Livingstone, Zambia, and travels through the stunning South Luangwa National Park, the tranquil shores of Lake Malawi, and the majestic Southern Highlands of Tanzania. Explore Mikumi National Park and end your journey on the idyllic beaches of Zanzibar. This safari offers a perfect mix of wildlife, culture, and beach relaxation – all while staying in comfortable lodges.
Quick Itinerary Overview
- Start: Livingstone (Victoria Falls), Zambia
- End: Stone Town or Nungwi, Zanzibar
- Countries: Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania
- Accommodation: Comfortable lodge stays
- Highlights: South Luangwa NP, Lake Malawi, Mikumi NP, Zanzibar Beaches
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Livingstone to Lusaka – Zambia
Depart Victoria Falls and journey through the scenic Southern Province of Zambia to Lusaka. Overnight in a bush lodge where wildlife such as giraffe and impala may roam.
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Lusaka to Petauke – Zambia
Travel the Great East Road to Petauke. Stop at the colorful Luangwa Market for a taste of local life. Overnight in Petauke en route to South Luangwa National Park.
Included Activity: Luangwa Market Visit
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3-4: South Luangwa National Park – Zambia
Explore the renowned South Luangwa National Park with a sunset game drive. Optional walking safaris offer a close encounter with nature. Visit the Mulberry Mongoose craft project en route.
Included Activities: Mulberry Mongoose Visit, Sunset Game Drive
Optional Activities: Walking Safari or Morning Game Drive
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (x2)
Day 5-6: Ngala Beach, Lake Malawi – Malawi
Cross into Malawi and relax on the shores of Lake Malawi at Ngala Beach. Enjoy optional activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking.
Optional Activities: Snorkeling, Sailing, Kayaking, Fishing, Waterfall Hike
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (x2)
Day 7: Chitimba, Lake Malawi – Malawi
Travel north to Chitimba. Visit a local fishing village and enjoy a guided cultural walking tour. Relax lakeside in the afternoon.
Included Activity: Village Walking Tour
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 8: Lake Malawi to Mbeya – Tanzania
Journey into Tanzania’s fertile Southern Highlands. Stay overnight on a coffee plantation near Mbeya surrounded by scenic mountain landscapes.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 9: Mbeya to Iringa – Tanzania
Visit a working coffee plantation before traveling through lush highlands to Iringa. Overnight in a lodge with views of tea plantations and green valleys.
Included Activity: Coffee Plantation Tour
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 10-11: Mikumi National Park – Tanzania
Arrive near Mikumi National Park. Relax at the lodge or choose an optional game drive to see lions, elephants, buffalo, and more in this wildlife-rich region.
Optional Activities: Game Drives, Cultural Tours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (x2)
Day 12: Mikumi to Dar es Salaam – Tanzania
Travel to the coastal city of Dar es Salaam. Enjoy time to explore the city’s markets, cuisine, and bustling port atmosphere before heading to Zanzibar.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 13: Dar es Salaam to Stone Town (Zanzibar) – Tanzania
Ferry to Zanzibar Island and spend the day exploring the UNESCO-listed Stone Town with its blend of African, Arab, and European influences.
Included Activity: Zanzibar Ferry
Meals: Breakfast
Day 14-15: Zanzibar Beach Resort – Tanzania
Head to Nungwi Beach in northern Zanzibar. En route, take a guided Spice Tour to learn about Zanzibar’s spice trade. Enjoy beach relaxation, water sports, or cultural excursions.
Included Activities: Stone Town Walking Tour, Zanzibar Spice Tour
Optional Activities: Snorkeling, Scuba Diving, Dhow Sailing, Village Tours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (x2)
Day 16: Zanzibar to Stone Town – Tanzania
Return to Stone Town for the end of your unforgettable Zambia, Malawi & Tanzania Safari. Option to end in Nungwi if preferred.
Meals: Breakfast
Important Responsible Travel Note
We do not support wildlife interaction activities such as walking with lions or elephant rides. These experiences are harmful to the welfare of wild animals and we recommend supporting ethical wildlife tourism instead.
Travel Tip
For the best experience on this Zambia, Malawi & Tanzania Safari, book flights at least one day before departure and one day after the tour ends.