Johannesburg to Nairobi Overland: Waterfalls & Beaches

Travel to Johannesburg, the cosmopolitan city at the heart of South Africa, and find some of the country’s most iconic landmarks. Replete with cultural excursions, historical sites, and superb restaurants, Johannesburg has plenty to explore. A visit to the city’s Apartheid Museum, Constitution Hill Human Rights Center, and Mandela House is absolutely essential; immerse yourself in these crucial exhibits to learn more about the country’s recent history of apartheid, as well as the important work of Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu to combat racial discrimination. Take advantage of Johannesburg’s diverse flavors by indulging in culinary bites and cocktails at the sprawling Neighbourgoods Market, or head east of the Fashion District for boutique shopping and eclectic art galleries at the Maboneng Precinct. Unwind at the Gold Reef City Amusement Park, where you can hop aboard thrilling roller coasters and water rides, or head just outside the city to the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to venture inside ancient caves brimming with fossils. Johannesburg is guaranteed to enchant you!

Travel to Johannesburg, the cosmopolitan city at the heart of South Africa, and find some of the country’s most iconic landmarks. Replete with cultural excursions, historical sites, and superb restaurants, Johannesburg has plenty to explore. A visit to the city’s Apartheid Museum, Constitution Hill Human Rights Center, and Mandela House is absolutely essential; immerse yourself in these crucial exhibits to learn more about the country’s recent history of apartheid, as well as the important work of Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu to combat racial discrimination. Take advantage of Johannesburg’s diverse flavors by indulging in culinary bites and cocktails at the sprawling Neighbourgoods Market, or head east of the Fashion District for boutique shopping and eclectic art galleries at the Maboneng Precinct. Unwind at the Gold Reef City Amusement Park, where you can hop aboard thrilling roller coasters and water rides, or head just outside the city to the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to venture inside ancient caves brimming with fossils. Johannesburg is guaranteed to enchant you!

Maun, often referred to as the "tourism capital" of Botswana, is a vibrant gateway to the Okavango Delta, one of the world's largest inland deltas. This bustling town offers a unique blend of modern amenities and traditional charm, making it an ideal starting point for safaris and wildlife adventures. Visitors can explore the nearby Moremi Game Reserve, known for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes, or take a scenic flight over the delta for a bird's-eye view of this spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Despite its rapid development, Maun retains a frontier-town feel, filled with local markets, traditional crafts, and a lively atmosphere. The Thamalakane River winds through the town, providing a picturesque setting for leisurely walks and relaxing boat trips. Maun is also home to the Nhabe Museum, which showcases the cultural heritage of the region through a variety of historical crafts, instruments, artwork and more. The town's unique blend of old and new, along with its strategic location, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of Botswana.

Maun, often referred to as the "tourism capital" of Botswana, is a vibrant gateway to the Okavango Delta, one of the world's largest inland deltas. This bustling town offers a unique blend of modern amenities and traditional charm, making it an ideal starting point for safaris and wildlife adventures. Visitors can explore the nearby Moremi Game Reserve, known for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes, or take a scenic flight over the delta for a bird's-eye view of this spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Despite its rapid development, Maun retains a frontier-town feel, filled with local markets, traditional crafts, and a lively atmosphere. The Thamalakane River winds through the town, providing a picturesque setting for leisurely walks and relaxing boat trips. Maun is also home to the Nhabe Museum, which showcases the cultural heritage of the region through a variety of historical crafts, instruments, artwork and more. The town's unique blend of old and new, along with its strategic location, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of Botswana.

Majestic Victoria Falls, a waterfall of gargantuan proportions, sits atop the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe. This cascading natural wonder is the main attraction for Victoria Falls National Park and the local town of Victoria Falls to its west. Accessible by cruise, train, or hike, there are myriad ways to explore this exciting landmark. Go for a swim in the Devils Pool on the waterfall’s edge, bungee jump off the Boiling Pot, raft down the nearby Zambezi River, or simply take in the awesome sight of Victoria Falls from one of many vantage points throughout the park.

Majestic Victoria Falls, a waterfall of gargantuan proportions, sits atop the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe. This cascading natural wonder is the main attraction for Victoria Falls National Park and the local town of Victoria Falls to its west. Accessible by cruise, train, or hike, there are myriad ways to explore this exciting landmark. Go for a swim in the Devils Pool on the waterfall’s edge, bungee jump off the Boiling Pot, raft down the nearby Zambezi River, or simply take in the awesome sight of Victoria Falls from one of many vantage points throughout the park.

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s largest city and economic hub, offers visitors a vibrant mix of African, Arab, and European influences, making it one of East Africa’s most culturally diverse cities. With its bustling markets, lively waterfront, and historical sites, Dar es Salaam gives tourists a glimpse into the country’s rich history and dynamic present. One of the city’s must-see attractions is the National Museum and House of Culture, where visitors can explore Tanzania’s archaeological heritage, including fossils from the Olduvai Gorge, as well as exhibits detailing the country's colonial history and fight for independence.

Strolling along the harborfront, you’ll find Dar es Salaam’s fish market, a lively spot where locals sell their daily catches. The energy is infectious as fishermen, buyers, and curious onlookers bargain over fresh seafood while traditional wooden dhows bob in the Indian Ocean nearby. For a more relaxed vibe, Coco Beach on the Msasani Peninsula offers a chance to unwind by the sea, with its golden sands and gentle waves. The beach is popular for both swimming and food stalls, where you can sample local delicacies like freshly grilled fish and chips.

Dar es Salaam’s architecture reflects its multicultural past, from the colonial-era German and British buildings to the Arab-influenced designs of the Kariakoo Market. For a true taste of local culture, spend some time in this vibrant district, which is home to one of the city’s largest markets. Here, visitors can shop for everything from spices and textiles to handcrafted souvenirs while soaking in the colorful street scenes and lively atmosphere.

A fun fact about Dar es Salaam: the name translates to “Haven of Peace” in Arabic, which speaks to the city’s origins as a small coastal town in the 19th century. Despite its rapid growth into a bustling metropolis, Dar es Salaam still retains elements of its peaceful, laid-back charm along its waterfront and leafy neighborhoods. For those seeking a mix of urban excitement and coastal beauty, Dar es Salaam is an ideal gateway to Tanzania’s other treasures like Zanzibar and the Serengeti.

Zanzibar Island, off the coast of Tanzania, is a captivating destination where history and natural beauty converge. The island’s Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a maze of narrow alleys, vibrant markets, and historical buildings. Wander through the bustling Darajani Market, where local spices, textiles, and crafts create a sensory feast. Key landmarks like the House of Wonders and the Old Fort offer rich insights into Zanzibar’s Swahili, Arab, and Portuguese heritage.

The island is renowned for its stunning beaches, from the lively sands of Nungwi to the serene shores of Paje. These pristine locations are perfect for water sports, snorkeling, and relaxation. Zanzibar’s warm, turquoise waters teem with marine life, making it a diver’s paradise. Additionally, the Jozani Forest is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts, offering a chance to see the endangered red colobus monkey and explore lush tropical landscapes.

A fun fact about Zanzibar is its significant role in the global spice trade, which earned it the nickname “Spice Island.” Visitors can immerse themselves in this heritage with a tour of local spice farms, where they can see and smell the cultivation of cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon. These tours offer a unique opportunity to experience the island’s agricultural legacy firsthand.

To fully appreciate Zanzibar’s charm, plan your visit during the dry season from June to October. This period offers ideal weather conditions, fewer tourists, and more opportunities to enjoy the island’s attractions and natural beauty. Zanzibar’s blend of history, culture, and stunning scenery ensures an unforgettable experience for any traveler.

Stone Town, the historic heart of Zanzibar City, is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and architectural beauty. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Stone Town boasts narrow, winding streets lined with towering stone buildings adorned with beautifully carved wooden doors, reflecting its rich history as a major trading hub. Visitors can explore the bustling markets, visit the iconic House of Wonders, and take a stroll along the waterfront to soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Stone Town is its multicultural influences, with elements from African, Indian, Arabian, and European cultures evident throughout the city. The Old Fort, built by the Omani Arabs in the 17th century, and the Anglican Cathedral, constructed by French Missionaries in 1897, are two of many must-see landmarks that tell the story of the city's diverse past.

Fun fact: Stone Town is famous for its coral stone structures and intricately carved wooden doors, many of which feature metal studs that were historically used to deter war elephants. This unique architectural feature is a testament to the city's strategic importance and its rich cultural tapestry.

Stone Town, the historic heart of Zanzibar City, is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and architectural beauty. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Stone Town boasts narrow, winding streets lined with towering stone buildings adorned with beautifully carved wooden doors, reflecting its rich history as a major trading hub. Visitors can explore the bustling markets, visit the iconic House of Wonders, and take a stroll along the waterfront to soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Stone Town is its multicultural influences, with elements from African, Indian, Arabian, and European cultures evident throughout the city. The Old Fort, built by the Omani Arabs in the 17th century, and the Anglican Cathedral, constructed by French Missionaries in 1897, are two of many must-see landmarks that tell the story of the city's diverse past.

Fun fact: Stone Town is famous for its coral stone structures and intricately carved wooden doors, many of which feature metal studs that were historically used to deter war elephants. This unique architectural feature is a testament to the city's strategic importance and its rich cultural tapestry.