I’ve led many overland tours in Malawi and these trips were usually part of a longer route that travels between Nairobi and Cape Town. But because this country is landlocked and rather difficult to reach, the best overland tours in Malawi will usually begin in either Nairobi, Victoria Falls or Johannesburg. My recommendation is to consider the Nairobi to Victoria Falls section and this is in fact my favorite part of the Nairobi to Cape Town route. Let’s take a close look at some options…
My Picks for the Best Overland Tours in Malawi
Nairobi to Victoria Falls Adventure (20 Days)
Start: Nairobi / Finish: Victoria Falls
You will see so much on this 20-day overland tour before and after you enter Malawi. Breathe in the scent of fragrant spruce plantations in Zanzibar, and keep your eyes peeled for the elusive “big five” across the vast Serengeti. From exploring rural villages to relaxing in the famous ‘Lando’ (overland adventure vehicle) and camping under the starry African sky, this trip is packed with unforgettable experiences and memories waiting to be made.
Jo’Burg to Nairobi: Beaches & Waterfalls (27 Days)
Start: Jo’burg / Finish: Nairobi
Get ready for an action-packed month as you embark on an epic overland journey from Johannesburg to Nairobi, crossing through the breathtaking wilderness of seven countries. Track Africa’s “big five” on safari drives in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro, and explore the Okavango Delta on a wildlife walk and mokoro canoe ride. Feel the mist of Victoria Falls and breathe in the fragrant air of Zanzibar’s spice plantations. You’ll be making these discoveries from a rugged Lando, built for adventure. There is another option that takes in Kruger National Park instead of the Okavango Delta but this opportunity to take a mokoro (canoe) overnight adventure in the Delta is far more interesting!
But seriously, if you can afford the extra time and cost….
My Favourite Overland Tour in Africa
Cape Town to Nairobi Overland Tour (40 Days)
Start: Cape Town / Finish: Nairobi, Kenya
This amazing journey was actually my very first overland tour in Africa (except I did the trip in reverse from Nairobi to Cape Town). You kick things off by travelling up the South African coast to Namibia where the desert landscapes are a standout for many travelers, offering a stark contrast to everything that came before. Victoria Falls is packed with things to see and do, and the Okavango Delta is one of the wildest experiences Africa has to offer. In Malawi, you’ll get a taste of local life, and South Luangwa National Park offers even more wildlife encounters. Thrilling game safaris in Serengeti National Park, and a fun escape to the beaches of Zanzibar are just a couple more of the incredible experiences en-route. Seriously, if you have the time and money…
One last thing….
Travel insurance is mandatory for all overland truck tours but not all policies will cover this type of adventure. I recommend you read my article about the best travel insurance for Africa or perhaps just get a quick quote from World Nomads below….it takes just a few seconds!
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