Days 8 & 9: Zanzibar

History aside, Zanzibar offers a wealth of experiences for the visitor. Today, the quiet streets of the old Stone Town still retain their Arabic influence, from the Medina-like shops to the palaces of the Sultans, who founded their vast empires on the spoils of the slave and ivory trade.

The island is famous for its spices and an excursion around a spice plantation is always a fascinating experience. Other options include a trip to the beautiful beaches and giant tortoises of Prison Island, a full day scuba dive in Nungwe or a fishing trip in a traditional dhow.

Mopeds are available for hire if you'd like to explore the more remote areas of the island. Zanzibar is a seafood lover's paradise. Numerous restaurants offer a great variety of the freshest catch from the Indian Ocean - crayfish being a popular speciality.

Alternatively, you can mingle with the locals and enjoy dinner at the Forodhani Gardens seafront market, where delicious, inexpensive seafood is on offer. Meals and accommodation on Zanzibar at own expense.

Days 10: Zanzibar to Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania

Leaving Zanzibar, you return to the Tanzania mainland and can enjoy another night in Dar es Salaam. Dinner.

Day 11: Dar es Salaam to Iringa, Tanzania

This morning you leave Dar es Salaam and head south. You pass through the Mikumi National Park where it is possible to view a range of African wildlife from the roadside, totally impervious to the passing traffic.

You travel towards Iringa where you spend the night in a beautiful rustic campsite famous for its Amarula Hot Chocolates and its steamy showers. Breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Days 12-16: Iringa to Lake Malawi, Malawi

Taking in the beauty of the Tukuyu tea and banana plantations, you head towards Malawi entering the 'Warm Heart of Africa' through the border post at Songwe. Malawi is a landlocked country with 20% of its total area made up of beautiful Lake Malawi.

You travel the length of the western side of Lake Malawi, stopping off at various bays and inlets over the next 5 days. Spend the days learning the game of bao from the locals, scour the markets for a bargain or simply relax on the pristine white beaches. The temperate climate in Malawi allows for swimming in the clear blue freshwater lake all year round.

Explore the beautiful shore where you'll happen upon the local fishermen sorting their catch. Traditional fishing techniques are still practiced and to appreciate their boating skills, try to paddle a dug out canoe yourself.

The various beachside campsites along Lake Malawi's shores offer many optional Excursions including a variety of water sports, horse back rides and a visit to the local village and school. Breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Day 17: Lake Malawi to Chipata, Zambia

You cross the border into Zambia, heading to a beautiful little campsite just 10kms before the Zambia/Malawi border, where you spend the night. Breakfast, lunch, dinner.