In spite of all its regional difficulties, Africa captures the imagination like no other continent and its varied cultures, extraordinary wildlife and perhaps most of all, the majesty of its landscape cast a lifelong spell on all who visit.
We have chartered the Pride of Africa, regarded by many as one of the most luxurious trains in the world, for a journey through South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Tanzania. Some of the most evocative journeys in the world are to be had on board a train and nowhere is this more true than in Africa where the timeless landscapes can be enjoyed from the considerable comfort of your carriage, providing an eye-level view of the absorbing scenery.
From Cape Town we will travel the length of South Africa visiting the diamond town of Kimberley, the nation’s capital of Pretoria and stay two nights in a private lodge in the Madikwe Game Reserve. Cross the border to the magnificent Victoria Falls and then across the mighty Zambezi River, travelling north to Zambia where we join the Tazara Railway line. We will climb towards the Zambian and Tanzanian border, almost the midpoint between Africa’s two Great Rift Valley lakes. Descend into the Rift Valley travelling through stunning scenery as the train negotiates the tunnels, switchbacks and viaducts of the escarpment. Next we will visit the Selous Game Reserve, the largest on the continent and home to over 1,000,000 large animals and over half of Tanzania’s elephant population. Finally we reach the bustling city of Dar es Salaam where we have an overnight stay before returning to the UK, or alternatively you may wish to extend your time in Tanzania with a three night stay in Zanzibar.
Pride of Africa
We are delighted to be working with Rovos Rail and their luxury train the Pride of Africa. Since its establishment in 1989, Rovos Rail has earned an international reputation for its truly world class travel experiences. Step aboard the wood-panelled coaches and enjoy fine cuisine in five-star luxury as some of the most varied scenery imaginable unfolds beyond the windows. Recapture the romance and atmosphere of a bygone era when privileged travellers experienced the magic and mystery of Africa in a relaxed and elegant fashion.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Cape Town, South Africa.
Fly by scheduled flight.
Day 2 Cape Town.
Arrive in the morning and after lunch we transfer to the Rovos Rail station to embark our luxury train. Enjoy a welcome dinner onboard this evening.
Day 3 Cape Town to Matjiesfontein.
Enjoy the changing landscape as we travel to Matjiesfontein, arriving in the early evening with time for a stroll through this quaint and historic little village. Of special interest is the museum on the platform and a collection of historic cars and railway carriages.
Day 4 Kimberley.
Enjoy a leisurely morning on the train and after lunch we arrive into Kimberley. Here we proceed for a tour of the city, the ‘Big Hole’ and the Diamond Mine Museum with a historic tram ride (subject to availability). We leave Kimberley in the late afternoon. Ten minutes after departing Kimberley there is a shallow lake on the left hand side where spectacular flocks of flamingos can often be seen.
Day 5 Pretoria.
This morning we pull into Pretoria, one of the most picturesque of South African cities. Enjoy a tour of the station and locomotive workshops (weather permitting) followed by lunch on the platform and a city tour of Pretoria. Return to the train in the early evening and depart for Zeerust.
Day 6 Zeerust to Madikwe Game Reserve.
Arrive this morning at Zeerust and transfer to the Madikwe Game Reserve for a two night stay at Tau Game Lodge. Madikwe is one of the largest game reserves in South Africa offering great game viewing opportunities. It has been the recipient of an ambitious and successful restocking programme, with game indigenous to the area. The 75,000 hectares now boast an excellent wildlife population including the ‘Big Five’. You can also expect to see its packs of wild dog which are often sighted, extensive plains game including sable, gemsbok, springbok and giraffe, as well as over 340 species of birds.
Day 7 Madikwe Game Reserve.
A full day to explore Madikwe. Enjoy an early morning and evening game drive in addition to other activities and make the most of the lodge’s excellent facilities.
Day 8 Gaborone, Botswana.
After an early morning game drive we reboard our train in Gaborone for a mid-day departure. Border formalities en-route.
Day 9 En-route.
Enjoy the day on board travelling through Zimbabwe. An expert historian will provide morning and afternoon talks. We pass Gwaai and Dete along one of Africa’s longest stretches of straight railway line – 114 kilometres and along the eastern edge of the Hwange National Park where occasional sightings of animals can occur.
Day 10 Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.
Arrive at Victoria Falls this morning. Walk from the train to the “Grand Lady” Victoria Falls Hotel, a short way down the path. This evening we take a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, a magical experience. Dinner will be taken at the hotel at the ‘Jungle Junction Restaurant’ named after an early train station there, but now it is a lovely open-air dining area serving delicious, fresh food.
Day 11 Victoria Falls.
Enjoy a relaxing day at leisure at Victoria Falls. A selection of optional tours will be offered for an additional cost, for example, join a guided tour of the falls, take the ‘Flight of Angels’ or enjoy a round of golf. In the late afternoon re-board the train and depart for Zambia with border formalities en-route.
Days 12 & 13 En-route.
Two leisurely days on board our train to enjoy the good food and company whilst admiring the passing scenery as we journey through Zambia. There will be lectures on board during the day.
Day 14 Kasama, Zambia.
Today we disembark in Kasama for an excursion to Chisimba Falls, a combination of three successive waterfalls. The Bemba people regard this as one of the most sacred places of power. Return to the train for our onward journey. There will be border formalities as we cross from Zambia to Tanzania.
Day 15 Makambako, Tanzania.
After breakfast we will arrive in Makambako and commence our descent through the spectacular pass to Mlimba. The train travels alongside the Udzungwa Mountains as it negotiates the tunnels, switchbacks and viaducts of the escarpment towards the Selous.
Day 16 Selous Game Reserve.
Enjoy a game visit in the Selous Game Reserve, the largest in Africa. Meals are enjoyed on board as the train departs Kisaki and descends into the Rift Valley from the highlands and traverses the fertile lands of Tanzania towards Gwata.
Day 17 Gwata to Dar es Salaam.
Arrive in Gwata and continue the journey through to Dar es Salaam where on arrival we leave the train. We take a panoramic tour of Dar es Salaam followed by lunch. Check in to the Hyatt Regency Hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 18 Dar es Salaam to London.
After a morning at leisure we transfer to the airport and return to London by scheduled indirect flight.
Day 19 London.
Arrive today
Dates and Prices
Prices per person based on double occupancy| 11 to 29 January 2024 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| Pullman Suite | £12695 | |
| Deluxe Suite | £14395 | |
| Royal Suite | £16995 | |
| Pullman Suite for sole use | £15995 | |
| Deluxe Suite for sole use | £18995 | |
Tour Reference Code: LAAFRICA24
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • 12 nights aboard the Pride of Africa on full board basis including drinks (excluding certain premium label spirits, wines and champagnes) • Two nights at Tau Game Lodge in a Standard Chalet on full board basis • Overnight at Victoria Falls Hotel in Deluxe Central Room on full board basis • Overnight at Hyatt Regency Hotel, Dar es Salaam with breakfast • Excursions • Local guides • Onboard Tour Director • Noble Caledonia Tour Manager • Dinner on day 2 • Lunch and dinner on day 17 • Limited laundry service aboard the train • Gratuities • Transfers • Airport taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, visas, optional excursions in Victoria Falls.
NB. The railway track is shared with South African Railways meaning delays are possible which may cause disruption to the itinerary.
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VISA INFORMATION: Visas are required for Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe. For ease, we have arranged with the train’s operator, Rovos Rail, for the visas for Zambia and Zimbabwe to be issued on arrival for a fee of approximately $55 US Dollars per person (exact fee for each visa will be advised closer to departure) for British citizen passport holders. Alternatively you can obtain independently before travel. A visa for Tanzania must be obtained before travel and the application process can begin 90 days before departure. You can apply directly for your Tanzanian visa through your nearest embassy/consulate or you may like to use a visa agency. This information is correct at the time of printing and should the information change, we will be in touch with booked passengers with updated guidelines. |
Pride of Africa
We are delighted to be working with Rovos Rail and their luxury train the Pride of Africa. Since its establishment in 1989, Rovos Rail has earned an international reputation for its truly world class travel experiences. Step aboard the wood-panelled coaches and enjoy fine cuisine in five-star luxury as some of the most varied scenery imaginable unfolds beyond the windows. Recapture the romance and atmosphere of a bygone era when privileged travellers experienced the magic and mystery of Africa in a relaxed and elegant fashion.
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Train Directory
Train Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the train or click on the booklet to download.
Since its establishment in 1989, Rovos Rail has earned an international reputation for its truly world class travel experiences and we are delighted to offer their luxury train the Pride of Africa. Step aboard the wood-panelled coaches and enjoy fine cuisine in five-star luxury as some of the most varied scenery imaginable unfolds beyond the windows. Recapture the romance and atmosphere of a bygone era when privileged travellers experienced the magic and mystery of Africa in a relaxed and elegant fashion.
ACCOMMODATION
The train carries a maximum of 72 passengers in 36 superbly appointed suites. All have en-suite bathrooms with original fittings that combine with the modern technology of hot showers, hairdryers and shaver plugs. All are equipped with a writing surface and a personal safe for valuables. There is also a bar fridge filled with beverages of your choice and room service is available 24 hours a day. There are three categories of accommodation available:
Royal Suites (16 sqm/172 sqft): The Royal Suites are both spacious and elegant. Each has its own private lounge area and full bathroom with Victorian bath and separate shower. The epitome of luxury with handsome wood panelling and period Edwardian features, the air-conditioned suites accommodate two people offering the option of side-by-side twin or spacious double beds.
Deluxe Suites (10 sqm/108 sqft): The Deluxe Suites accommodate two passengers in either twin or double beds and have a lounge area and en-suite bathroom with shower. The wood-panelled rebuilt sleeper coaches, remodelled and refurbished to mint condition, offer every modern convenience and comfort.
Pullman Suites (7 sqm/76 sqft): The Pullman Suites are equipped with a comfortable sofa-seat during the day with a conversion to double or twin beds for the evening, and also have an en-suite bathroom with shower. The wood-panelled rebuilt sleeper coaches, remodelled and refurbished to mint condition, offer every modern convenience and comfort.
ADAPTORS
A limited number of international adaptors are available on board.
AIR-CONDITIONING
All public cars are fitted with gas-filled air-conditioning systems. Each suite has an air-conditioning unit with individual temperature control (this can also be set to heat mode). Fresh-air intake is solved by opening a window, however windows should be closed while operating the air-conditioning unit.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Pre-departure announcements will be made prior to boarding the train by the Train Manager. Any further important information will be personally announced by your on board hostess.
COMMUNICATIONS
In maintaining the spirit of travel of a bygone era, there are no radios or television sets on board. There is an internal telephone system in all suites. The use of mobile phones, laptops and anything else that has the ability to disturb other passengers is confined to the privacy of your suite only. The reception can be poor while the train is moving. It is advised to contact your service provider to ensure the correct settings for network services are activated. Internet will be available at many of the Rovos Rail lounges and accommodations en-route.
You can contact the train by email at reservations@rovos.co.za. Please indicate the passenger name and departure date as the subject.
DAILY PROGRAMME
A day to day itinerary is placed in all suites detailing the arrangements and this will be available for you when you board the train. Any updates will be communicated as necessary.
DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, low salt, gluten free and low cholesterol, please notify the Reservations Department at Noble Caledonia. We regret that not all dietary requests can be guaranteed. If you have any specific or special foods that you require we recommend that you take some with you although the on board staff will endeavour to accommodate your needs. Once on board, please speak with the chef at dinner on your first evening to reconfirm your needs.
DISABLED FACILITIES
The train is able to accommodate passengers with walking difficulties although it is recommended that an able-bodied passenger accompanies them. We regret that the train is not suitable for wheelchair dependent passengers as wheelchairs, even collapsible ones, cannot manoeuvre along the train or between some carriages where there are 90 degree turns. Any mobility impairments should be notified at the time of booking.
DISEMBARKATION
Guests should wait in public areas or in their suite until an announcement is made with instructions for disembarking.
DRESS CODE ON BOARD
For days on the train, the dress code is smart/casual. Evening attire is more formal – for the gentlemen a jacket and tie is a minimum requirement while for ladies cocktail/evening dresses or suits are suggested. Please include warm clothing for cold mornings and evenings. With regards to off-train excursions, it is strongly recommended to have comfortable walking shoes, sun lotion and hats as well as warm clothing for the game drives, which are on open vehicles and can get very cold.
ELECTRICITY
The electricity on the train is as follows: 220V AC 50Hz 3 point round pronged wall plug. International adaptors are available – please ask your host/ess.
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
In the unlikely event that this should occur during your journey, we ask that you remain calm and follow the instructions of the train staff. There is a fire extinguisher in your suite and if a fire should break out here, please be quick to apply. If it cannot be controlled, please advise staff immediately. There are large extinguishers at the end of each carriage for staff application. The train will be brought to a halt for the required action. Do not jump from a moving train.
DINING & DRINKING
The Pride of Africa has two 42-seater Dining Cars to accommodate the maximum complement of 72 passengers in total comfort at one sitting. An enthusiastic team of chefs are responsible for overseeing the very important task of ensuring guests’ every need is catered for. There is an emphasis on fresh local ingredients and traditional dishes such as game are a specialty. Every morning there is a full breakfast with dishes cooked to order and a buffet selection of fresh fruits and yoghurts. Lunch and dinner are set menus and both are complemented by a selection of excellent South African wines. Normally breakfast is between 7.00 am and 10.00am, lunch at 1.00 pm and a formal dinner at 7.30 pm. All meals are served at these times unless otherwise stated in the timetable. All drinks on board are included with the exception of certain premium label spirits, wines and champagnes.
GIFT SHOP
There is a small gift shop on board which is located in the central lounge and is open between meal times. The host/ess on duty here has a basic first aid kit and a limited supply of personal essentials.
GRATUITIES
Gratuities have been included in your holiday price.
HEALTH MATTERS
Please ensure you have indicated any medical conditions, physical disabilities or allergies you might have at the time of booking. There is a basic first aid kit on board the train.
LAUNDRY SERVICE
There is a limited laundry service on board comprising of household washers, dryers and steam irons. The turnaround is 48 hours so it is not possible to handle a week’s worth of washing. Please note although the train provides a complimentary service, both Rovos Rail and Noble Caledonia cannot be held responsible for items that may be damaged or lost in the process. There are no dry-cleaning facilities en-route or on board the train.
LOST PROPERTY
Before you leave the train, please check your suite carefully to ensure you do not leave anything behind. If you discover you have left any items behind, please contact Noble Caledonia. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection, and any costs incurred will be at your own expense.
MAIL
Although your host/ess will be happy to post letters on your behalf, they may not be able to do so straightaway at the stop at which you make such a request. Some postal services are unreliable and many letters or postcards that you ask to be delivered on your behalf may be delayed or even lost en route.
MEDICAL FACILITIES
There is a basic first aid kit on board the train.
MINI BAR
All suites have a bar fridge filled with beverages of the passengers’ choice and room service is available 24 hours a day.
NEWS
There are no television sets on board the train and there is no Wi-Fi on board the train. Internet is available within the Rovos Rail lounges.
ON BOARD ACCOUNT
Any extra expenses can be settled directly on the train with the host/ess. All major credit cards are accepted on the train.
PASSPORTS
All passports are collected by the Train Manager upon embarkation. Passports are necessary to facilitate immigration formalities between borders. If required, your manager will also provide necessary forms for you to fill out.
PUBLIC AREAS
On board there is a non-smoking Observation Car at the rear of the train, while the coach next to it contains a small smoking lounge. A unique feature of the Observation Car is the enlarged windows and open-air balcony. At the centre of the train there is a non-smoking Lounge Car, which also houses the Gift Shop. Deep sofas and wingback chairs make for an extremely comfortable car. In maintaining the spirit of travel of a bygone era, there are no radios or television sets on board. As with all the service cars the lounges are air-conditioned, yet the windows can be opened allowing in the sights, sounds and scents of Africa.
END OF STAY QUESTIONNAIRE
Your comments are important to us therefore we ask that you fill in the questionnaire sent with your final documents. We are always looking for ways to improve your holiday and in order to do this we need some feedback from our guests.
SAFE
An electronic safe is provided in the cupboard of each suite.
SECURITY
Whilst on board, passengers are encouraged to close shutters (and preferably windows as well) in the suites. If not in the suite, passengers are specifically requested to close windows and shutters. The train doors in the passages are all locked from the inside. Your suite door can also lock from the inside.
SERVICE
A dedicated host/ess is available for full 24-hour room service. He/she can be called from the telephone in your suite. The Train Manager and Deputy Train Manager are also on hand throughout the journey to help with any queries.
SMOKING POLICY
On board the train, smoking is only allowed in the Club Lounge. Please notify us at the time of booking if you are a smoker or non-smoker so that the appropriate room might be requested at the hotels. Smoking is allowed in the privacy of your suite, but please be aware that the train is generally made up of wood. Please do not throw flammable items such as cigarette or cigar butts off the train as bush fires in Africa are a constant and dangerous hazard.
TELEPHONE CALLS
There is an internal telephone system on board. Please check the room list which details all telephone numbers – this will include the number of your host/ess should you need their service between midnight and 6.00 am.
TELEVISION
There are no television sets on board the train.
TOILETRIES
All suites are supplied with following complimentary amenities: • Shower gel • Conditioning Shampoo • Body lotion • Soap • Shower caps • Nail file • Shoe polish • Tissues / Cotton buds • Emergency sewing kit
TRACK
The track over which the train travels is inconsistently maintained. The train is therefore restricted to 60km/h (37mph) and over bad sections the speed is reduced to as little as 20km/h (12mph). If you find it noisy, earplugs are available.
WAKE UP CALL
Wake up calls can be requested via your host/ess.
WATER
Tap water on board the train is not potable and therefore bottled water is supplied and will be replenished on a daily base. Tap water is perfectly fine for showering.
PLEASE NOTE:
These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
Your Accommodation
In addition to our 12 nights spent onboard the luxurious Pride of Africa, our itinerary also includes accommodation at some select hotels:
TAU GAME LODGE, MADIKWE GAME RESERVE – overnight days 6 & 7
Privately-owned Tau Game Lodge was built in 1995 and overlooks a vast natural waterhole, which attracts a variety of game, as does the diverse vegetation which thrives in the fertile topsoil. The main body of the Lodge is two-levelled and has a comfortable lounge, bar and dining room which are semi open-air and overlook the waterhole. Delicious buffet breakfasts and lunches are generally served in the main building or on the verandah next to the plunge pool and dinner is served in one of the cosy boma’s under the stars, or in the lapa next to the main lodge. The accommodation consists of 30 luxury thatched chalets, all with views of the game approaching the water hole. Each chalet ensures privacy with its own viewing deck, en-suite bathroom, open-air shower, air-conditioning and ceiling fans.
VICTORIA FALLS HOTEL – overnight day 10
Popularly known as “the grand old lady of the falls” the historic Victoria Falls Hotel overlooks the Victoria Falls Bridge and the gorges below. Situated in acres of private garden, the charm and tranquil atmosphere of this five star hotel has earned international acclaim. The elegant decor and the old world charm of this gracious hotel is reflected in the wide colonial verandahs. The hotel’s 180 rooms are decorated in a manner that recaptures the comfortable charm of a bygone age, with colonial prints, four poster and canopied beds, antique furniture and well-chosen artifacts. Modern facilities and amenities mingle well with the old-fashioned ambience, including such 21st century travellers’ necessities as personal safes, minibars, bathrobes, digital satellite television and umbrellas for the convenience of guests visiting the Rain Forest surrounding the Falls. The main lounge with its old-fashioned traditional elegance and decor has a warm welcoming style, providing a perfect backdrop for relaxing with friends. The Bulawayo Room offers surroundings of exceptional comfort and luxury, going back to the turn of the century.
HYATT REGENCY DAR ES SALAAM, THE KILIMANJARO – overnight day 17
This is a modern oasis in the heart of the city. The luxurious five-star hotel has a superb waterfront location with spectacular views of the harbour and Indian Ocean and features 180 spacious and comfortably appointed rooms with authentic hospitality, and deluxe amenities. There is a range of excellent dining options. Unwind at Anantara Spa, a comprehensive wellness centre that offers guests a wide selection of spa treatments in six private treatment rooms complemented by a sauna, steam rooms and a fitness centre. Alternatively, relax outdoors in the infinity swimming pool which, overlooking the Dar es Salaam harbour, offers some of the best views from any hotel pool in Tanzania.
Travelling with You
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Philip Airey
Phil Airey started his career in the travel industry in the early 80’s when, after working in vineyards near Bordeaux, he discovered the joys of meeting different peoples and cultures abroad.
Over the last 30 years he has made his career one of helping his fellow travellers make the most out of their adventures and exploits in countries spanning the globe. More recently he has specialised in Croatia, Russia, India, China and Japan, although he still loves to show others some of his favourite European destinations, especially those incredibly diverse and interesting countries of the Baltic region.
Tour Extensions
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For those who would like to spend some more time at the luxurious Table Bay Hotel and to explore Cape Town, we are offering a three night extension.
Vineyards, Stellenbosch
The Itinerary
Day 1 London to Cape Town, South Africa.
Fly by scheduled flight.
Day 2 Cape Town.
Arrive today and transfer to the Table Bay Hotel, located on the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront for a three night stay. We meet this evening and enjoy dinner in a local restaurant. (D)
Day 3 Full Day Winelands Tour.
Today is dedicated to the exceptional winelands region and our first visit is to the Backsberg Estate, a family working farm in the heart of the winelands where we will enjoy a wine and cheese tasting. We then continue to Franschhoek which, known as the “the food and wine capital”, is a town with old vineyards and a strong French influence. Here we find many farms which were named after different areas in France from which the Huguenot refugee settlers originated and the Huguenot Monument at the end of the town honours the area’s French settlers. For our next wine tasting and lunch we will visit Mont Rochelle, a hotel and 37 hectares of lush vineyard which is now owned by Sir Richard Branson. Afterwards we take a walking tour of Stellenbosch, the second oldest town in South Africa and we will see some of the town’s architectural history. Stellenbosch is home to some of the finest wines and has a history of producing wine dating back to the 17th century. Return to the hotel for an evening at leisure. (B, L)
Day 4 Full Day Cape Peninsula Tour.
Our journey to Cape Point takes us along the scenic Atlantic seaboard coastal road. We pass the pristine beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay, with their soft white sand and azure blue water before arriving at the quaint fishing village of Hout Bay with its imposing Sentinel. Our tour continues over Chapman’s Peak, which is one of the most spectacular marine drives and to Cape Point at the tip of the Cape Peninsula which is a nature reserve within Table Mountain National Park and a Natural World Heritage Site. Here there is a variety of flora and fauna, baboons, antelope, Cape mountain zebra and amazing birdlife. We continue on to Simons Town, a maritime naval base which is located on the shores of False Bay and we stop for lunch here before continuing to Boulders Beach, a sheltered beach with huge granite boulders and famous for the local residents, the African penguin colony. We head back through Fish Hoek, a coastal town on the False Bay side of the Cape Peninsula this seaside village is surrounded by rugged mountains and is home to an early Stone Age historic site. Return to the hotel for an evening at leisure. (B, L)
Day 5 Cape Town.
Enjoy a morning at leisure or join an optional excursion (bookable and payable locally) such as to Table Mountain, Robben Island or Kirstenbosch Gardens. After lunch we transfer to the Rovos Rail station to embark our luxury train and join day 2 of the main itinerary. (B, D)
Prices per person based on double occupancy
8 to 12 January 2024 Category Price Twin £1795 Single £2195 PRICE INCLUDES: Three nights at the Table Bay Hotel • Two full day excursions • Meals as indicated (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, D – Dinner) • Entrance fees • Local guides • Gratuities • Transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
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For those who would like to spend some more time in Tanzania, we are offering a three night extension to explore Zanzibar staying at the Zanzibar Serena Inn. The hotel is idyllically situated on the seafront of historic and enchanting Stone Town and is a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World.
Stone Town, Zanzibar
The Itinerary
Day 1 Dar Es Salaam to Zanzibar, Tanzania.
Transfer from the Hyatt Regency Hotel to the Port of Dar es Salaam and take the first class ferry service to Stone Town. Upon arrival check in to our hotel, the Zanzibar Serena Inn for our three night stay. Enjoy lunch at the hotel and this afternoon we will take a tour of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We visit the colourful market and the site of the cathedral, built in 1874 it stands on the sight of a past slave market. From here we visit the residence of the late Sultan of Zanzibar, Tippu Tip’s House, the Old Fort, Peoples Palace and the House of Wonders, full of intrigue from days of long ago. We end the tour at the historic Emerson Spice Hotel consisting of three adjoining World Heritage Site buildings in the exotic Kasbah of Stone Town. Enjoy sundowners and dinner overlooking the rooftops of this magical island. (B, L, D)
Day 2 Fumba.
This morning we transfer to Fumba Beach for a full day excursion using locally made traditional sailing dhows of between 8 to 10 metres in length. Set out to sea into the Menai Bay, where conservation efforts have allowed dolphins to flourish and land on a powdery sandbank where the team will set up sunshades and fit you with snorkel gear. Here you can enjoy frolicking in the shallows or bask in the sun under the clear Zanzibari sky. We return back to Fumba in the afternoon and transfer back to our hotel. This evening enjoy a traditional Swahili dinner buffet with a live ‘Taarab’ band. (B, L, D)
Day 3 Spice Plantations to Jozani Forest.
After breakfast, depart for our tour to the spice plantations for an opportunity to taste and smell a variety of fruits and spices unique to the island. Commencing at the ruins of the Maruhubi Palace, via the site of David Livingston’s house, the journey continues north of town towards the Kidichi Persian Baths. Lunch is served at the very unique The Rock Restaurant with breathtaking views of a little island on the eastern shores of Zanzibar. This afternoon we take a trip to Jozani Forest, one of the last remaining sanctuaries in the world of the red colubus monkey. Jozani has an excellent nature trail with impressive flora and fauna. We also visit the mangrove swamp and walk around the mangrove forest. Dinner is at our hotel this evening. (B, L, D)
Day 4 Zanzibar to London.
Transfer to the airport for our scheduled, indirect flight to London. (B)
Day 5 London.
Arrive today.
Prices per person based on double occupancy
28 January to 1 February 2024 Category Price Twin £2095 Single £2495 PRICE INCLUDES: Three nights at the Zanzibar Serena • Two full day excursions • Meals as indicated (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, D – Dinner) • Entrance fees • Local guides • Gratuities • Transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000