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Hello guys!

Looking to go from Zanzibar to Victoria falls in August. Either directly or via Malawi. I can spend up to 10 days making the journey if a side adventure looks worthwhile. I will a be solo traveler.

I see there is a train to Zambia, then i need to get a bus to Lusaka and onwards from there. However i would be interested in any detours in Malawi. Can any body recommend me a nice safe route :-)

Thanking you all,

Liam (Welshman)

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1

I think if you want to stop off in Malawi its better you take a bus from Dar to Malawi through Mbeya ( Kasumulu board ) , then from Malawi you can heading to Zambia for Victoria falls visit . Or take a TAZARA train from Dar to Zambia direct , you can check a train from this link here http://tazarasite.com/?page_id=106 .

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I'm in Kenya now and heading to Arusha tomorrow. I plan on making a similar trip end of the moth so I will post back here and let you know how I fared! So far my plan is Zanzibar>Dar>Mzuzu>Vic Falls
Goodluck and cheers

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3

Thanks Kat, i shall look into this.

Looks like you are doing the same route as me 'toroamwithloveblog'. Keep me updated with your journey, excited to see how you get on. I see a lot of tour companies providing this route, but little info on 'backpackers' just going by themselves. Would be good to hear if you meet many people on your way. Any recommended hostels/hotels, transport, stops, tours in Serengeti/Ngorongoro are all welcome :-)

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4

No need to use a tour company.
I was in Malawi and in Zambia (separated trips in 2011-2012) and it's easy to move around by yourself using public transports.
Depending your interests, you can choose to reach directly Zambia from Tanzania or passing through Malawi but try to have a realistic program (timing)

Michel

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Having a RELAXED time schedule would be essential especially when you're using the lesser priced buses. Expect breakdowns but also expect great memories forever.

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6
In response to #3

Ah if you're looking to go to Serengeti/Ngorongoro and plan to stop in Arusha, I can't recommend The Greenhouse hostel enough. Seriously had a blast there. They will become a surrogate family very quickly. Also, they will arrange your safari to Serengeti/Ngorongoro if you like. I had planned to do this but when I got there decided I'd rather spend my money drinking on the beach (which is what I'm doing now in Zanzibar). Keep in mind Serengeti/Ngorongoro is a good journey away from Arusha and most tours last about 4 nights camping (I was quoted $150USD a night).
Like I said, I'm in Zanzibar now leaving Tuesday for Malawi. I anticipate spending about 5 nights in Malawi then a day of travel to the Vic Falls area and a few nights there as well. One thing to note if you are taking the train from Dar to Mbeya (or on to Zambia): I just learned yesterday that it only runs twice a week Tuesday and Friday so keep this in mind when planning your journey.
Cheers

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In response to #6

Thanks for the info. How is your trip going now toroamwithloveblog. How did you find your trip through Malawi?

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