From Cape Town’s Atlantic edge to the mist of Bwindi’s gorilla forests, this 29-day overland safari stitches oceans, rift valleys, and savannas into one ambitious journey. Expect long drives, border crossings, and wildlife encounters that reward travelers who arrive prepared.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the plane in Cape Town with the Atlantic wind in your face and the taste of long travel still fresh. Within days that gust becomes a rhythm—windows down on a dusty highway across the Karoo where koppies (little hills) pass like punctuation marks, a sunrise spill of ochre and blue. The van becomes a small, mobile country: days at hot springs and stone-age sites, nights in village guesthouses, afternoons counting elephants at Chobe, mornings listening for the heavy breath of mountain gorillas in Bwindi. By the time you reach the thunder of Victoria Falls, the trip has already remade your sense of scale.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
29 days
Fitness Level
Good long-distance travel fitness with ability to handle full-day drives, multi-hour hikes, and uneven forest terrain for gorilla trekking.
Wildlife
History
The route follows parts of the East African Rift and long-distance trade routes; Zanzibar’s Stone Town preserves centuries of Swahili, Arab, and European maritime influence.
Conservation
Gorilla tracking and park visits fund local conservation and communities; travelers should respect permit rules, avoid single-use plastics, and support local guides and enterprises.
Reserve your spot on the Across Africa Safari today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Carry travel documents in a waterproof pouch
Multiple border crossings require a valid passport, visas, and Yellow Fever certificate—keep originals and copies in a waterproof holder.
Layer for shifting climates
Temperatures swing from cool highlands to tropical coast—pack a lightweight insulated layer and a breathable rain shell.
Hydrate and manage malaria risk
Bring a refillable water bottle and consult a travel clinic about antimalarials before departure.
Book gorilla permits early
Gorilla trekking permits are limited and sold separately—reserve months in advance to secure a slot.
Sturdy hiking boots
Support and grip for muddy forest trails and rocky outcrops during gorilla treks and waterfall hikes.
Lightweight waterproof jacket
Protects against sudden tropical showers across East Africa and wind on highland passes.
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Travel document organizer
Keeps passport, visas, permits, and vaccination card safe and accessible for frequent border checks.
Insect repellent + sun protection
Deters mosquitoes in lowlands and protects skin from intense equatorial sun on beaches and drives.
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