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HomeRoad TripsAfricaEast AfricaTanzaniaOut of Africa
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Out of Africa Road Trip

Dar es Salaam - Mikumi N.P. - Mbeya - Karonga - Nkhata Bay - Nkhotakota - Lilongwe - Lusaka - Livingstone - Chobe N.P. - Maun - Gobabis - Windhoek

Expect on your itinerary

Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Landscape Landscape
Wildlife Wildlife
Culture Culture
Urban life Urban life
Historical sites Historical sites
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Out of Africa Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages12 km4,399 h/stage6.4

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Out of Africa Road Trip in Tanzania?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 3,024EUR drive & more 600EUR sleep & more 1,111EUR eat & more 1,008EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,719EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 5,743EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 4,158EUR drive & more 788EUR sleep & more 2,222EUR eat & more 1,512EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 4,522EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 8,680EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 8,316EUR drive & more 1,075EUR sleep & more 3,322EUR eat & more 2,016EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 6,413EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 14,729EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 4,725EUR drive & more 1,188EUR sleep & more 1,155EUR eat & more 1,008EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 3,351EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 8,076EUR
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Out of Africa Road Trip Itinerary

Embark on an unforgettable journey with the Out of Africa Road Trip! Starting in the vibrant city of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, this 21 day road trip will take you through some of the continent’s most stunning landscapes, offering a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of Africa. You will pass through Mikumi National Park, Karonga, Nkhotakota, Lusaka and the Chobe National Park in Namibia, before reaching the final destination of Windhoek. The 4391 km road trip will take you through some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Africa, from the lush tropical forests of Tanzania to the vast open plains of Zambia. Along the way, you will be able to experience a variety of cultures, and take in the sights and sounds of the continent. The best time to drive this road trip is during the dry season, between June and October. However, be aware that road conditions can be poor in some areas, so it is always best to check before setting off. You will also need to plan for border crossings along the route. Overall, this road trip provides a very high level of experience and memories, and is suitable for all drivers. With careful planning, it can be managed on a moderate budget. So why not take the plunge and explore the beauty of Africa?
number of days 21 number of days
route length 4,399 km route length
budget fair budget
good for adventurer good for
traffic direction on the left traffic direction
accident level high accident level

START Dar es Salaam

Distance 4,399 km Driving time 76.2 h Pace: modest 1,143.8 kWh Airports DAR
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Dar es Salaam, Tanzania is the perfect starting point for the "Out of Africa Road Trip". With its vibrant city life, there is something for everyone in this bustling metropolis. From historical landmarks and monuments, to the beautiful beaches and the bustling markets, Dar es Salaam has something for all travelers. For those coming to Dar es Salaam by air, the closest international airport is Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) located just 20 minutes from the city centre. Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy to explore the city and its surroundings. Some of the top attractions to visit in Dar es Salaam include the National Museum and House of Culture, the Kariakoo Market, the National Monument, the Botanical Garden, the Mwenge Carvers Market, and the Bongoyo Island. For nature lovers, the nearby Usambara Mountains offer stunning views and excellent hiking opportunities. Dar es Salaam is an excellent starting point for the "Out of Africa Road Trip". From the stunning beaches, to the vibrant markets and the historical attractions, there is something for everyone in this bustling city. With car rentals available at the airport, it is easy to explore the city and its surroundings.

1 Dar es Salaam - Mikumi N.P.

Distance 316 km Driving time 6.8 h Pace: modest 82.2 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options attractive landscape camping sites
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip experience? Join us on a journey from Dar es Salaam to Mikumi National Park and explore the beauty of Tanzania! This 316 km drive will take you no more than 6 hours, and you will be able to experience the best of these two magnificent places. Your journey will start in Dar es Salaam, the largest city in Tanzania. Here you can visit the National Museum, the botanical garden of Kisarawe, or the majestic Kigamboni beach. Then you will drive to Mikumi National Park, which is home to a variety of wildlife species, including elephants, zebras, wildebeests, and giraffes. You can take a game drive around the park and observe the wildlife from a safe distance. We have prepared an itinerary for this stage of your road trip which includes information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. So join us and enjoy the beauty of Tanzania!

2 Mikumi N.P. - Mbeya

Distance 513 km Driving time 10.0 h Pace: modest 133.4 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options attractive landscape camping sites
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Are you ready for the ultimate road trip experience? Start your journey in the Mikumi National Park, Tanzania, and explore the incredible wildlife, savannahs, and forests. From Mikumi, you will drive 512km to Mbeya, a journey of fewer than 10 hours. Along the way, make sure to visit the Udzungwa Mountains National Park, renowned for its diverse wildlife and lush forests. You can also stop in the city of Iringa, where you can explore the historic sites and vibrant markets. As you continue your journey, you will pass through the town of Mbeya, where you can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Finally, you will reach your destination in Mbeya, the perfect place to relax and enjoy the stunning views. This is just one of the stages of your journey, so make sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route.

3 Mbeya - Karonga

Distance 161 km Driving time 3.4 h Pace: modest 41.8 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options border crossing junction of road trips camping sites
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Mbeya to Karonga, a journey of 160 km that will take you less than 4 hours. You will cross the Tanzania-Malawi border, so make sure you have all the necessary documents ready. Along the way, you can explore the beautiful landscape of the Mbeya region, with its lush green hills and valleys. Visit the stunningly picturesque Kipengere Range, a protected area of forest and grassland that is home to a variety of wildlife. You can also explore the historical town of Chunya, which is known for its traditional architecture and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Once in Karonga, you can explore the district's many lakes and rivers, such as Lake Chilwa and the Great Rift Valley. There are also a number of cultural attractions, including the Karonga Museum and the Karonga Cultural Centre. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage.

4 Karonga - Nkhata Bay

Distance 314 km Driving time 9.4 h Pace: slow 72.1 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options junction of road trips attractive landscape camping sites
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Welcome to the Karonga - Nkhata Bay road trip stage! This journey of 303km will take you just under 14 hours, but don't worry - there are plenty of exciting places to visit along the way. In Karonga, you can explore the beautiful Lake Malawi National Park, with its array of wildlife, and visit the Karonga Museum, which offers insight into the history of the area. As you drive towards Nkhata Bay, be sure to stop at the Mzuzu Coffee Plantation, where you can learn about the production process and sample some of the local brew. Finally, you'll arrive in Nkhata Bay, where you can spend a day on the beach, visit the nearby Livingstonia Mission, and explore the nearby Nkhata Bay Boma. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. We hope you enjoy your Karonga - Nkhata Bay road trip!

5 Nkhata Bay - Nkhotakota

Distance 193 km Driving time 3.9 h Pace: modest 50.2 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options junction of road trips attractive landscape camping sites
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Welcome to the road trip stage that starts in Nkhata Bay, Malawi and ends in Nkhotakota! This stage is 193km long and can be completed in under 3 hours. Nkhata Bay is a picturesque fishing village located on the shores of Lake Malawi. It is known for its vibrant nightlife, with many beach bars and restaurants. Make sure to visit the Nkhata Bay Crafts Market to find unique souvenirs and the nearby Mzuzu Nature Reserve. The next stop is Mzimba, a bustling town with plenty of markets and shops. Make sure to visit the Mzimba Heritage Site and the nearby Mzimba Hill, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The final stop is Nkhotakota, a beautiful town located on the banks of the Bua River. Here you can explore the Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, which is home to a variety of wildlife species, or take a boat ride on the Bua River. This is just one of the many stages of a larger tour. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. We hope you enjoy your journey!

6 Nkhotakota - Lilongwe

Distance 209 km Driving time 4.8 h Pace: modest 54.4 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options junction of road trips interesting  historic site attractive landscape camping sites
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Nkhotakota to Lilongwe! This 213 km journey will take you fewer than 4 hours, so make sure to bring along some snacks and drinks to keep you energized. Start your journey in Nkhotakota, a bustling town located on the banks of the Bua River. Visit the nearby Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, hippos, antelopes, and zebras. The reserve also offers boat rides and guided safaris. Continue your drive to Kasungu National Park, one of the largest parks in Malawi. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including lions, leopards, and hyenas. You can also take part in game drives, bird watching, and guided walks. Finally, you will arrive in Lilongwe, the capital of Malawi. Visit the Lilongwe Nature Sanctuary, an amazing wildlife park with over 200 species of birds. You can also visit the National Museum, which houses a variety of artifacts and artworks. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a safe and enjoyable journey!

7 Lilongwe - Lusaka

Distance 714 km Driving time 11.2 h Pace: fast 214.2 kWh View map Itinerary
border crossing junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options camping sites
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Embark on a 716km road trip from Lilongwe, Malawi to Lusaka, Zambia, and discover the beauty of the two countries. This route will take you less than 10 hours and you will cross the border between the two countries. Along the way, you can visit the stunning Mua Mission Museum in Malawi and the beautiful Victoria Falls in Zambia. The Mua Mission Museum is a great spot to learn about the history of Malawi and the Victoria Falls is one of the most stunning waterfalls in the world. Other interesting places to visit in Zambia are the Lusaka National Museum and the Kalimba Reptile Park. Both places offer a unique experience and offer a great insight into the history and culture of the country. All in all, this road trip promises to be an exciting and enjoyable journey. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage.

8 Lusaka - Livingstone

Distance 482 km Driving time 7.6 h Pace: fast 144.6 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options interesting  historic site attractive landscape UNESCO World Heritage Site camping sites
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Embark on an incredible journey through Zambia's lush landscape and explore the stunning natural beauty of the country. Start the journey in the vibrant city of Lusaka and drive southwards for 482km to reach the majestic Victoria Falls. Enjoy the mesmerizing views of the Falls and take a dip in the Devil's Pool. After exploring the Falls, drive to Livingstone and explore the vibrant culture of the town. Visit the Livingstone Museum to learn about the history of the region and take a walk through the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. Don't forget to visit the beautiful Maramba Cultural Village and the Mukuni Park. After exploring the town, drive to the Chobe National Park and spot the wildlife in their natural habitat. Finally, end the journey in Livingstone and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Zambezi River. More information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for a road trip of a lifetime!

9 Livingstone - Chobe N.P.

Distance 79 km Driving time 1.4 h Pace: modest 20.6 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options junction of road trips border crossing interesting  historic site attractive landscape UNESCO World Heritage Site camping sites
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Livingstone, Zambia to Chobe National Park? This 79km journey will take you less than two hours, and take you through the beautiful Kasane. As you cross the border from Zambia to Botswana, you will be amazed by the stunning landscape. Along the way, be sure to stop at the Chobe Riverfront for some amazing wildlife viewing. You might even spot some elephants, hippos, and other animals. In Kasane, you can visit the Chobe National Park, which is home to a variety of wildlife. You can also visit the Chobe Game Lodge, where you can take a game drive and enjoy a delicious meal. As you make your way to Chobe National Park, you will be amazed by the breathtaking views. You can take a boat ride on the Chobe River and spot some of the incredible wildlife. You can also visit the Chobe National Park, where you can explore the park and enjoy the stunning scenery. At the end of your journey, you will be rewarded with the incredible beauty of Chobe National Park. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

10 Chobe N.P. - Maun

Distance 607 km Driving time 7.9 h Pace: fast 182.0 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips attractive landscape accommodation options camping sites
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Welcome road-trippers! Let us take you on an amazing journey starting in Chobe National Park, Botswana. This is the first stage of a larger tour, and it will take you through the Okavango Delta and end in Maun. This 607 km leg of the journey will take you fewer than 8 hours to complete. The Chobe National Park offers an unforgettable experience with its unique wildlife. Be sure to take a guided game drive to see the elephants, buffalo, and other animals. The Okavango Delta is a paradise of water and land. You can take a mokoro ride through the delta to experience the beauty of the area. Don't forget to take a break and enjoy the sunset over the delta. Finally, you will arrive in Maun, the gateway to the Okavango Delta. Here you can explore the local markets and enjoy the vibrant culture. This is just a taste of the adventure that awaits you. For more information on attractions, accommodations, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

11 Maun - Gobabis

Distance 603 km Driving time 7.2 h Pace: fast 181.0 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options border crossing junction of road trips camping sites
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip? Start your adventure in Maun, Botswana and head north towards the Kalahari Desert. Along the way you'll find some of the most spectacular attractions in the region, such as the Khutse Game Reserve, Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, and the Ghanzi Trail. Cross the border into Namibia and explore the vast desert landscape of the Kalahari. Stop in Gobabis and marvel at the incredible wildlife, including cheetahs, wildebeest, and meerkats. With a total distance of 603km and a driving time of fewer than 7 hours, this is the perfect road trip for those looking for an adventure. Don't forget to check the itinerary for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Get ready to explore the Kalahari Desert and experience the beauty of Botswana and Namibia!

12 Gobabis - Windhoek

Distance 209 km Driving time 2.7 h Pace: fast 62.6 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site attractive landscape accommodation options camping sites
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Are you ready for a road trip from Gobabis to Windhoek? This is one of the most exciting stages of a larger tour, with a distance of 209km and a driving time of fewer than 2 hours. Your journey begins in Gobabis, the capital of the Omaheke Region. Here you can visit the Gobabis Museum, which houses the history of the town, and the Omaheke Regional Council, where you can learn more about the local culture. The next stop is the small town of Otjinene, which is home to the Otjinene Craft Centre. Here you can find a variety of handmade crafts, from traditional baskets to pottery and jewelry. The third stop is the small town of Maltahöhe, where you can visit the Maltahöhe Museum, which houses a collection of local artifacts. Your final stop is Windhoek, the capital of Namibia. Here you can visit the historic Windhoek City Hall, the National Museum of Namibia, and the National Art Gallery. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip from Gobabis to Windhoek!

  Windhoek

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Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, is the perfect ending point for the "Out of Africa Road Trip". Located in the central highlands of the country, Windhoek is a vibrant and modern city, full of life and character. The city is home to some of the most interesting attractions in Namibia, including the Namibian National Museum, the Independence Memorial Museum, and the Alte Feste Museum. For those looking to explore the outdoors, there are plenty of activities to choose from, such as a visit to the iconic Daan Viljoen Game Park, or a hike up the Khomas Hochland Mountains. Windhoek is also the perfect place to pick up souvenirs and local crafts to take home. The city's largest shopping mall, Maerua Mall, offers a wide range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment. For those traveling by air, Windhoek International Airport (WDH) is the closest to the city. From here, visitors can take a shuttle bus or taxi to the city center. At the end of the "Out of Africa Road Trip", Windhoek is the ideal place to relax and experience the culture of Namibia. With its vibrant city life and stunning natural attractions, Windhoek is an unforgettable destination.

Out of Africa Road Trip at a glance

Before you set off

The Out of Africa Road Trip is an epic 21-day journey that commences in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, and concludes in Windhoek, Namibia. This 4,391-kilometer expedition allows travelers to immerse themselves in the stunning diversity of African landscapes and cultures. The route passes through several countries, offering an opportunity to experience the unique wildlife, intriguing history, and varied ecosystems of the continent.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

  • Mikumi National Park: Get up close with African wildlife such as lions, elephants, and rare birds in one of Tanzania's most accessible parks.
  • Karonga: Delve into Malawi's intriguing prehistoric past at the Karonga Museum and enjoy the tranquil shores of Lake Malawi.
  • Nkhotakota: Relax in the untouched beauty of Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, a haven for elephants and other wildlife.
  • Lusaka: Dive into the vibrant life of Zambia's capital, which is a mix of traditional markets, modern developments, and rich cultural heritage.
  • Chobe National Park: Witness one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa, including the legendary Chobe elephants known for their large herds.
  • Windhoek: Experience the unique fusion of German colonial history and modern African culture in Namibia's cosmopolitan capital.

Best Time to Go:

The optimal time for embarking on this Road Trip is during the dry season, from June to October. This period offers superior wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources, and dry weather conditions make for safer and more comfortable driving.

Potential Risks:

  • Travelers may encounter challenging Road conditions in remote areas, requiring careful navigation.
  • Border crossings require thorough preparation due to differing visa requirements and customs regulations.
  • Wild animals crossing Roads can be dangerous, so drivers should remain vigilant, especially in national parks.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

  • This Road Trip can be budget-friendly with diligent planning, and it caters to travelers of varied experience levels.
  • Participants will be treated to a rich tapestry of cultural encounters, including interactions with local communities and traditional cuisine.
  • The journey requires a well-maintained vehicle, preferably a 4x4, and pre-Trip research on current travel advisories and Road conditions is a must for a safe experience.

A good choice for:

Embarking on the Out of Africa Road Trip is an extraordinary way to explore the wonders of this incredible continent. With the right preparation and a sense of adventure, those who undertake this journey will forge unforgettable memories and gain a deeper appreciation for Africa's natural beauty and cultural richness.

Facts for safer driving in Tanzania

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.8
max speed urban max speed urban 60 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 100 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 110 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime on
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher no
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

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