• Duration: 18 Days / 17 Nights
• Dates: Start: 20 August 2028 | End: 06 September 2028
  *Other dates available on request for private/ legacy tours
• Group Size: Small group 6 – 12 persons
• Basis: Fully Inclusive throughout — all meals, activities, park fees, and local brand drinks
• Destinations: South Africa | Botswana | Zimbabwe | Kenya | Uganda
• Starts: Cape Town International Airport, South Africa (CPT)
• Ends: Entebbe International Airport, Uganda (EBB)

ABOUT THIS JOURNEY

There are journeys, and then there are expeditions that redefine what travel can be. The Best of Africa is the latter — an eighteen-day arc across five countries and five of the continent’s most celebrated wildlife and cultural destinations, led throughout by World Wildlife Journeys’ expert guides. It begins at Africa’s most beautiful city and ends in the mist-draped forests of Uganda, where mountain gorillas move through the shadows of ancient trees. In between, it delivers some of the greatest natural spectacles on earth.

The journey opens in Cape Town — Table Mountain, the Cape Peninsula, the African penguin colony at Boulders Beach, and the legendary wine estates of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. From there it moves north into the Okavango Delta, the world’s largest inland delta, where the Khwai Conservancy delivers elephant herds, lions, leopards, wild dogs, and all the intimacy of a private concession on the eastern edge of Botswana’s greatest wilderness.

Victoria Falls follows — the full thunder of the Zambezi hurling itself into the gorge, a Zambezi sundowner cruise, a morning game drive to a rhino sanctuary, and two nights on the river’s edge. Then Kenya: the Masai Mara at the height of the Great Wildebeest Migration, with morning and afternoon game drives across the open plains of one of Africa’s most celebrated game reserves, and access to the Mara North Conservancy where the highest concentration of cheetah in the wild is found.

The journey reaches its extraordinary conclusion in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that shelters nearly half the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Two full days of gorilla trekking in the dense, mist-filled forest are the kind of experience that lives in the memory for the rest of one’s life. This is Africa at its most complete, most diverse, and most profoundly moving.

SAFARI HIGHLIGHTS

• Cable car ascent of Table Mountain — Cape Town’s iconic flat-topped summit — with jaw-dropping views across the Cape Peninsula, the Atlantic, and the Indian Ocean
• Chapman’s Peak coastal drive and the Cape Point Lighthouse at the southern tip of the Cape Peninsula — one of the great scenic drives in Africa
• African penguins at Boulders Beach — swimming and waddling just metres from where you stand, in the warm Indian Ocean shallows
• Wine tasting and vineyard tours in the Stellenbosch and Franschhoek valleys — among the finest wine-producing landscapes in the world, with the history of the French Huguenots woven into every estate
• Game drives through the 200,000-hectare Khwai Conservancy in Botswana’s Okavango Delta — home to elephant, lion, leopard, wild dog, cheetah, hippo, buffalo, zebra, giraffe, sable, and roan antelope
• Guided walks and mokoro excursions in the Khwai — exploring the waterways and floodplains of the eastern Okavango at ground level
• Victoria Falls — Mosi-oa-Tunya, ‘The Smoke That Thunders’ — walked from the gorge rim with the mist rising 400 metres overhead
• Zambezi sundowner cruise aboard the Ra-Ikane, drifting upstream as the sky burns orange over the river
• Morning game drive to the Victoria Falls Rhino Sanctuary, one of Zimbabwe’s key conservation success stories
• The Great Wildebeest Migration — morning and afternoon game drives in the Masai Mara at the height of the crossing season, one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on earth
• Mara North Conservancy game drives — home to one of the highest concentrations of large carnivores anywhere, including the greatest number of wild cheetah in Africa
• Mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest — two full days in the dense ancient forest, tracking habituated gorilla families with Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers
• An hour in the presence of a wild mountain gorilla family — one of the rarest, most profound wildlife encounters available anywhere on earth
• Afternoon boat cruise on Lake Victoria at Entebbe — fish eagles, kingfishers, and the golden light of the equatorial evening
• Expert WWJ expedition leadership and guiding throughout all five countries

DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY

All gorilla trekking permits are included in the total cost. Fully inclusive throughout.

Days 1–3  |  Cape Town, South Africa 

Arrive at Cape Town International Airport where pre-booked transfers meet your arrival. Three nights in the Constantia wine valley, set against the backdrop of Table Mountain and the vineyards that slope down toward the sea.

Day 2 brings a full day tour of the Cape Peninsula — a cable car ride to the top of Table Mountain (subject to conditions), the famous Chapman’s Peak coastal drive around the picturesque Hout Bay, down to Kommetjie and along to Cape Point Lighthouse on the southern tip of the Peninsula. Lunch at a local restaurant, then a visit to the African penguin colony at Boulders Beach before returning in the late afternoon.

Day 3 takes us inland through the Cape Winelands — the historic university town of Stellenbosch, then on to Franschhoek, founded by French Huguenot refugees in the 1680s and still producing some of South Africa’s finest wines. Wine tasting, exceptional cuisine, and the remarkable story of how religious persecution in 17th-century France gave Africa some of its greatest vineyards. Return in the late afternoon for dinner at the hotel.

Days 4–6  |  Khwai Conservancy, Okavango Delta, Botswana

Fly from Cape Town to Maun and charter into the Khwai Conservancy, landing on a remote airstrip in the eastern Okavango. Three nights in this remarkable private concession, where the Khwai River draws wildlife in extraordinary concentrations year-round.

Morning and afternoon game drives through the mopane forests and floodplain edges of the Khwai, with guided walks and mokoro excursions available by arrangement with the guides. Elephant herds are a daily presence; lion, leopard, wild dog, and cheetah are all regularly encountered. The private concession allows off-road driving and night safaris — activities unavailable in the adjacent national parks. Each evening returns to camp for dinner on the banks of the Khwai under an extraordinary African sky.

Day 7  |  Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe 

Fly from Maun to Kasane, clear customs, and transfer by road through the Matesi Safaris Area to the town of Victoria Falls on the Zimbabwean bank of the Zambezi. On arrival, settle into your hotel set among indigenous trees just four kilometres upstream from the falls. In the late afternoon, step aboard the Ra-Ikane for a Zambezi sundowner cruise — drifting upriver as hippos surface in the shallows and the sky turns gold above the treeline.

Day 8  |  Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe 

An early morning game drive to the nearby Rhino Sanctuary before returning for a late breakfast and a siesta in the midday heat. The afternoon brings a guided tour of Victoria Falls itself — walking the gorge rim path through the perpetually mist-drenched rainforest as the full width of the falls unfolds in front of you. Dinner under the stars. Optional activities during the day include a helicopter flight over the falls or shopping in the local market.

Day 9  |  Nairobi, Kenya 

Before departure, listen to the remarkable story of explorer Dr. David Livingstone — a talk that brings Victoria Falls’ history to life in the hands of our guide. Then fly to Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, where a WWJ representative meets the group to assist through customs and immigration. Transfer to your hotel close to the Langata and Karen suburbs for a night in transit, with dinner included.

Days 10–12  |  Masai Mara, Kenya 

Fly from Nairobi to the Masai Mara airstrip and transfer to your camp on the banks of the Talek River, upstream from its confluence with the Mara. This intimate, privately owned boutique property accommodates just ten guests — your home for three nights as you explore one of the world’s great wildlife landscapes.

Morning and afternoon game drives cover both the Masai Mara Game Reserve and the Mara North Conservancy. August is the peak of the Great Wildebeest Migration — more than a million animals have crossed from Tanzania, and the Mara River crossings are at their most dramatic and unpredictable. Alongside the migration, the Mara North Conservancy holds exceptional predator densities: resident lion prides, a remarkable concentration of cheetah — the highest in any wild population — leopards, and the full cast of a thriving savanna ecosystem.

Day 13  |  Entebbe, Uganda 

After check-out, transfer to the Masai Mara airstrip and fly to Entebbe via a customs stop. On arrival at Entebbe International Airport, a WWJ representative meets the group and assists through immigration. Transfer to a boutique hotel on the shores of Lake Victoria — ten minutes from the airport — for an overnight stay. Dinner included.

Days 14–16  |  Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda 

After breakfast, transfer to Entebbe Airport for the charter flight to Kihihi Airstrip in south-western Uganda. On arrival, transfer by road to your lodge set on the misty forested slopes above Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Three full days in one of Africa’s most extraordinary wild places.

Days 15 and 16 are dedicated to mountain gorilla trekking. The pre-trek briefing takes place at Uganda Wildlife Authority headquarters — a short drive from the lodge. Expert UWA rangers lead each group into the forest, following fresh tracks and the sounds of movement through the dense vegetation. When you find the gorillas — and you will — you are permitted one precious hour in their presence. The groups trekked on each day are different, ensuring two entirely distinct encounters over the two days. Porters are available to hire; please carry cash for tips.

Day 17  |  Entebbe, Uganda

After a final breakfast in the forest, transfer back to Kihihi Airstrip and fly to Entebbe Airport. On arrival, transfer to your lakeside hotel on Lake Victoria for a final afternoon. Enjoy a boat cruise on the lake — fish eagles calling, kingfishers darting low over the water, the equatorial light turning gold across Africa’s largest lake. Dinner and overnight in a Lake View Room.

Day 18  |  Departure

Transfer from the hotel to Entebbe International Airport for your outbound international flight. End of services. The dust of five countries, the memory of a gorilla’s eyes in the forest light, the roar of Victoria Falls still echoing. These things travel home with you.

IMPORTANT — GORILLA TREKKING PERMITS

Gorilla trekking permits for Bwindi Impenetrable Forest are issued in strictly limited numbers and must be secured well in advance of the travel date. Full permit payment is required at the time of booking confirmation, in addition to the standard deposit. Permits are entirely non-refundable once purchased. Early booking is strongly advised to guarantee availability for your preferred dates. Please contact WWJ for current permit pricing and availability.

• International flights to Cape Town and from Entebbe
• Entry visas for South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Kenya, and Uganda — guests are responsible for all required travel documentation
• Travel insurance — strongly recommended
• Premium brand drinks (Champagne, premium spirits, imported wine)
• Laundry and items of a personal nature
• Gratuities for local guides, camp staff, and gorilla trekking porters (please carry USD cash for porter hire and tips at Bwindi)
• Optional activities at Victoria Falls not listed in inclusions (e.g. helicopter flight, white water rafting, bungee jumping)
• Any costs arising from flight delays, cancellations, or circumstances beyond WWJ’s control

IMPORTANT NOTES

• Gorilla trekking permits are non-refundable and must be paid in full at booking confirmation alongside the standard 30% deposit
• Luggage restriction for all light aircraft transfers: 15 kg per person including hand luggage, soft hold-all bags only — no hard suitcases or rigid-framed cases
• A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is COMPULSORY for entry into Kenya and Uganda — carry your International Certificate of Vaccination (ICVP) at all times
• For the KAZA region (Botswana and Zimbabwe), WWJ strongly recommends purchasing the KAZA Uni-Visa, available on arrival at Victoria Falls Airport
• The Bwindi gorilla trek requires a moderate level of fitness — trekking is through dense forest on uneven terrain for several hours; porters are available to hire at the trailhead
• All prices based on a minimum of 6 guests travelling together; single supplement available on request
• A 30% non-refundable deposit is required on booking confirmation, together with copies of all passports and a completed WWJ Tour Booking Form
• All payments by Electronic or Telegraphic Bank Transfer
• All prices in USD and subject to change due to exchange rate fluctuations or unforeseen cost increases
• WWJ reserves the right to substitute alternative properties and services of equal or superior standard, subject to availability

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Visas & Passports

This itinerary visits five countries and visa requirements vary for each. South Africa: most passport holders including US citizens do not require a visa. Botswana: visa-free for most nationalities. Zimbabwe: the KAZA Uni-Visa covers both Zimbabwe and Botswana and is strongly recommended — available on arrival at Victoria Falls Airport. Kenya: an e-visa must be obtained in advance at evisa.go.ke. Uganda: an e-visa is available in advance at visas.immigration.go.ug. Requirements can change without notice; please verify all requirements for your nationality well in advance of departure. WWJ accepts no liability for failure to hold correct documentation.

Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is STRONGLY recommended for all WWJ travellers. Coverage should include trip cancellation, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, personal accident and liability, loss of baggage, and travel delays. Ensure the policy covers gorilla trekking and guided walks in remote wilderness environments. Gorilla permits are non-refundable — ensure your policy covers permit loss due to illness or injury. Do not travel without adequate cover.

Health & Vaccinations

A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is COMPULSORY for entry into Kenya and Uganda. Carry your ICVP at all times. Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and South Africa (parts) are all malaria-risk areas — please consult your physician or a specialist travel medicine clinic well in advance of departure for current advice on antimalarial prophylaxis and all recommended vaccinations. Additional recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and tetanus. Check the latest health advisories for all five countries before travel.

Climate in August

August falls in the dry season across the safari destinations of this itinerary — one of the best times to visit Southern and East Africa for wildlife viewing. Days in Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Kenya are warm and sunny (25–32°C) with cool mornings and evenings. Cape Town in August is the city’s winter — mild and occasionally rainy with temperatures between 8°C and 18°C; a warm layer and waterproof jacket are essential. Bwindi is cool and frequently misty year-round due to its altitude; trekking days can be cold and wet even in the dry season. Layers and a quality waterproof are essential for gorilla trekking.

Clothing & Packing

Safari clothing in neutral tones — khaki, olive, tan, brown — for all game drives and wildlife activities. Long trousers and long-sleeved shirts are required for gorilla trekking (protection from vegetation and insects) and recommended for all bush walks. Sturdy waterproof hiking boots with ankle support are essential for Bwindi. A warm fleece and waterproof jacket are required for Cape Town and Bwindi. Smart-casual attire is appropriate for Cape Town restaurant dinners and hotel evenings. Soft-sided bags only for all light aircraft transfers — 15 kg per person including hand luggage. WWJ provides a detailed packing list on confirmation of booking.

Currency

US Dollars are the most widely accepted currency throughout this itinerary and are strongly recommended for all gratuities, personal purchases, optional activities, and porter hire at Bwindi. South African Rand is the local currency in Cape Town and accepted widely. Credit cards are accepted at hotels and major establishments throughout. ATM access is available in Cape Town, Victoria Falls town, Nairobi, and Entebbe, but not reliably in remote safari areas. Cash requirements in the field are minimal as most activities are fully inclusive — carry a mix of small-denomination USD notes.

Electricity

South Africa uses Type M plugs (three round pins, 15A); Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Uganda use Type G (British three-pin). All countries operate on 220–240V/50Hz. A universal travel adapter is strongly recommended. Remote safari camps typically offer limited charging facilities in the main lounge area; tent and chalet charging may be restricted to solar-powered USB ports.

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