Top 8 Africa Overland Routes & Tours: Best Safari Road Trips Across Africa

Why Choose an Africa Overland Safari?

Overland safaris combine the thrill of road tripping with the magic of African wildlife viewing. Unlike flying between parks or staying in one place, overland tours let you traverse multiple countries and ecosystems, revealing a rich tapestry of biodiversity and cultures.

Some advantages of overland safari tours include:

• Flexibility to stop anywhere for wildlife sightings or cultural experiences
• Cost-effectiveness compared to internal flights and luxury lodges
• Opportunity to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations
• Chance to bond with fellow travelers in shared vehicles
• Experience the journey as much as the destination

1. Cape Town to Victoria Falls: The Classic Southern Africa Overland Route

Overview

One of Africa’s most famous overland routes, the trip from Cape Town to Victoria Falls (or vice versa) covers approximately 2,000 miles across South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Highlights

• Stunning landscapes like the Namib Desert and Etosha National Park
• Wildlife-rich safari experiences in Chobe National Park and Okavango Delta
• Cultural immersion with local tribes such as the San people
• Iconic natural wonder of Victoria Falls

Example Tour

The “Cape to Victoria Falls” overland tours by companies like Nomad Africa or Wild Horizons typically last 18–21 days, combining camping and budget lodges for an authentic safari feel.

2. The East Africa Safari Circuit: Nairobi to Serengeti and Beyond

Overview

East Africa offers some of the world’s best wildlife viewing. An overland journey starting in Nairobi and looping through Kenya’s Maasai Mara, Tanzania’s Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and beyond is a dream for any safari lover.

Highlights

• Witness the Great Migration in Maasai Mara and Serengeti
• Explore the Ngorongoro Conservation Area with its dense wildlife populations
• Experience local Maasai and Hadzabe tribes
• Optional climb of Mount Kilimanjaro for the adventurous

Example Tour

Several operators like G Adventures and Intrepid Travel offer 14–20 day guided tours including 4×4 game drives, cultural visits, and some walking safaris.

3. The Trans-Kalahari Route: Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa

Overview

The Trans-Kalahari route links the desert landscapes of Namibia with Botswana’s famous waterways and South Africa’s wildlife-rich parks. This route is ideal for those wanting to experience deserts, wetlands, and savannahs in one trip.

Highlights

• Explore the surreal Sossusvlei dunes in Namibia
• Wildlife viewing in Botswana’s Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park
• Visit South Africa’s Kruger National Park
• Enjoy adventure activities like mokoro (dugout canoe) rides in Okavango

Example Tour

Overland companies like Overland Africa offer 14-18 day itineraries that combine camping and lodge stays, focusing on wildlife and scenic diversity.

4. The East African Coast to Serengeti: Tanzania and Kenya Beach & Safari Combo

Overview

Combining beach and bush, this route begins on the stunning Indian Ocean coast in Kenya or Tanzania before heading inland to world-class safari parks.

Highlights

• Relax on the beaches of Diani or Zanzibar
• Safari in Tsavo East National Park and the Serengeti
• Discover the spice farms and culture of Zanzibar
• Swim with dolphins and explore coral reefs

Example Tour

Tours like Basecamp Explorer’s Kenya and Tanzania beach-safari combo last about 14 days and provide a mix of wildlife, relaxation, and cultural experiences.

5. The Northern Safari Loop: Ethiopia to Kenya

Overview

For adventurous travelers wanting a less typical safari, the Northern Safari Loop starting in Ethiopia offers stunning landscapes and cultures before heading to Kenya’s wildlife havens.

Highlights

• Explore Ethiopia’s Simien Mountains and historical sites in Lalibela
• Visit Kenya’s Maasai Mara and Amboseli National Park
• Experience local tribes and ancient cultures
• Discover the Great Rift Valley ecosystem

Example Tour

Companies like Dragoman Overland offer 20-25 day tours combining hiking, wildlife, and cultural immersion.

6. The Madagascar Overland Route

Overview

For a unique overland adventure, Madagascar offers a blend of wildlife found nowhere else on Earth and fascinating landscapes.

Highlights

• Spot endemic species like lemurs and chameleons
• Explore Avenue of the Baobabs
• Visit national parks like Andasibe-Mantadia
• Experience Malagasy culture and traditions

Example Tour

Overland tours in Madagascar by operators like Madagascar Touring span 10-14 days with a mix of vehicle travel, walking, and cultural visits.

7. The Senegal to South Africa Pan-African Route

Overview

The ultimate overland safari for serious travelers, this pan-African route crosses the continent from West to South, showcasing Africa’s diverse geography, cultures, and wildlife.

Highlights

• West African cultures in Senegal and Ghana
• Sahara Desert crossings in Mali and Niger
• East African safaris and Great Rift Valley exploration
• Southern Africa’s wildlife and Victoria Falls

Example Tour

The Dragoman Trans-Africa Route is one of the longest overland tours, lasting 3-4 months, but it offers an epic and comprehensive African experience.

8. The Okavango Delta and Zambezi Explorer

Overview

This focused route explores two of Southern Africa’s most spectacular wilderness areas: the Okavango Delta in Botswana and the Zambezi River area spanning Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Highlights

• Mokoro rides and walking safaris in the Okavango Delta
• Wildlife viewing in Moremi Game Reserve
• Victoria Falls excursions on the Zambezi
• Adventure activities like white-water rafting and bungee jumping

Example Tour

Tour companies like Wild Frontiers offer 10-14 day itineraries focused on luxury and adventure in these iconic regions.

Tips for Choosing the Best Africa Overland Route for You

• Decide your focus: Wildlife, culture, adventure, or a mix
• Consider your time: Some routes are short (10-14 days), others span months
• Budget: Overland tours vary widely in cost depending on accommodation and transport style
• Physical fitness: Some routes include walking or hiking components
• Travel style: Group tours, self-drive, camping, or lodge stays

Conclusion: Ready for Your Africa Overland Safari Adventure?

Whether you dream of the iconic Serengeti migration, the vast deserts of Namibia, or the vibrant cultures of East Africa, these top 8 Africa overland routes and tours provide incredible ways to experience the continent’s magic up close. Overland safari road trips offer unmatched freedom, adventure, and the chance to truly connect with Africa’s stunning landscapes and wildlife.

Start planning your African safari road trip today and prepare for an unforgettable journey across this diverse and captivating continent!