I worked as an overland guide for many years. My favorite African overland tour was always the Nairobi to Cape Town route. There were so many incredible experiences and also ‘optional activities’ on this trip. That is to say, there are some options for which you can pay extra to experience, from gorilla trekking and skydiving to incredible wildlife safaris in Serengeti National Park. In this post, I will talk about my top favorite things to do on an African overland tour.
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7 Best Things to Do on an African Overland Tour
1. Serengeti National Park in Tanzania
Embarking on a wildlife safari in Serengeti National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, especially when part of an African overland tour. The park is famous for its vast plains, teeming with wildlife like lions, elephants, giraffes, and the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras. On an African overland tour, you’ll venture through the iconic landscapes in 4×4 vehicles, spotting the Big 5 and witnessing nature at its rawest. From the open savannahs to the unforgettable sunsets, the Serengeti offers unparalleled opportunities for wildlife viewing, making it one of the top highlights of any African adventure. The overland tour below from Nairobi to Zanzibar includes Serengeti National Park.
2. Wildlife Safari in Ngorongoro Crater
Ngorongoro Crater is located right next to Serengeti National Park which means you can usually experience both on the same safari. A wildlife safari in the Ngorongoro Crater is an unforgettable experience as the crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to an incredible concentration of animals, including elephants, lions, rhinos, and hippos, all set against the backdrop of a lush, volcanic landscape. As part of an African overland tour, you’ll descend into the crater’s floor and explore this natural haven, where wildlife roams freely in a self-contained ecosystem. The stunning scenery and abundance of animals make it one of the most remarkable stops on any journey through East Africa. The option below is includes both Ngorongoro and Serengeti National Park.
You must have personal travel insurance to join an African overland tour. I always use World Nomads myself and suggest you at least have some idea of the cost. You can get a quote below and it takes just a few seconds…
3. Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Gorilla trekking in Uganda offers a deeply primal experience, allowing you to come face-to-face with our closest animal relatives in their natural habitat. As you hike through the dense forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the anticipation builds until you finally encounter a family of mountain gorillas. Watching these magnificent creatures interact—displaying familiar behaviors like grooming, playing, and nurturing—makes you appreciate the deep connection we share with them. The intimate, quiet moments spent observing the gorillas in their wild environment leave a lasting impression, fostering a sense of awe and respect for the species and our shared evolutionary roots. You can go gorilla trekking on a private safari but an African overland tour will help you see much more than just the gorillas and rainforests of Uganda. There is an incredible overland tour which travels all the from from Nairobi, Kenya to see the mountain gorillas in Uganda!
4. Visiting Zanzibar on an African Overland Tour
Zanzibar is a favorite among travelers due to its stunning beaches, rich cultural history, and laid-back island vibe. With its crystal-clear waters, white sandy shores, and vibrant coral reefs, it’s an idyllic place for relaxation and water activities like snorkeling and diving. The island’s unique blend of African, Arab, and European influences is evident in the architecture of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For those on an African overland tour, Zanzibar offers a perfect break from the ruggedness of the journey, allowing visitors to unwind, explore, and recharge before continuing their adventure across the continent. The option below starts out in Arusha, Tanzania and includes Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater and a trip to Zanzibar at the end!
5. Staying at Lake Malawi
Malawi is often a highlight on an African overland tour due to its welcoming people and vibrant local culture. Known as the “Warm Heart of Africa,” Malawi offers travelers an authentic experience, especially around Lake Malawi, where the trip becomes highly engaging. Visitors can interact with friendly locals, visit villages, enjoy home-cooked meals, and explore local craft markets. The connection with Malawians, combined with the stunning natural beauty of the lake, creates a meaningful and immersive experience. This section of the trip is a chance to dive deeper into everyday life in Africa, making it one of the most memorable stops. The best way to see Malawi is by joining an overland tour from Nairobi to Victoria Falls or perhaps going all the way to Cape Town!
6. Okavango Delta Mokoro Trip in Botswana
An overnight mokoro trip into the Okavango Delta is an unforgettable adventure, offering a chance to explore the tranquil waterways and rich wildlife of one of Africa’s most pristine ecosystems. Gliding silently through the delta in a traditional canoe, you’ll spot hippos, elephants, and countless birds. However, this experience isn’t for everyone. With no WiFi and minimal modern comforts, the trip requires a love for nature and a willingness to disconnect. Camping under the stars in basic tents and being fully immersed in the wilderness might feel too rustic for some, but for others, it’s a rare and magical escape. The Okavango is part of an African overland tour between Vic Falls and Namibia.
7. Dune 45 & Camping in the Namib Desert
Visiting Dune 45 and camping at Spitzkoppe in the Namib Desert is often one of the most enjoyable parts of an African overland tour. Climbing Dune 45 at sunrise, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the vast desert and its ever-changing colors. The experience is both peaceful and awe-inspiring. Later, camping at Spitzkoppe, known as the “Matterhorn of Namibia,” offers a different kind of magic. The towering rock formations create a stunning backdrop for sunset and stargazing, with the quiet of the desert adding to the sense of isolation and adventure. It’s a perfect blend of beauty and tranquility. Namibia is visited on African overland tours from Cape Town to Vic Falls in Zimbabwe.
