Falls & Okavango Wilderness Discovery
SMALL GROUP ACCOMMODATED SAFARI: Visit the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls and enjoy a sunset dinner cruise on the mighty Zambezi River in Zimbabwe. Then cross the border to discover the best of beautiful Botswana. Encounter incredible wildlife in Chobe National Park, spend a night out in the wilderness of the Okavango Delta and spot rhinos in the Khama Rhino Sanctuary, before travelling on to Pretoria where this 9 day adventure ends.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Victoria Falls
Day 1 Victoria Falls
This adventure begins in Victoria Falls. We meet this afternoon for a serene sunset dinner cruise on the mighty Zambezi River. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and keep a look out for elephants, buffalo, buck, hippo, and birdlife along the riverbanks. We then return to our accommodation for the night or you can head out to enjoy the local nightlife.
Please note: This tour starts at 15:00 on Day 1 with a pick-up from the hotel.
Day 2 The Victoria Falls
Day 2 The Victoria Falls
After breakfast, we visit Victoria Falls National Park to witness one of Africa’s most spectacular sights. Stroll along the pathways to view the mighty Victoria Falls from different view points. The rest of the day is free to spend at leisure or enjoy some of the many exciting optional activities on offer at Victoria Falls. From white river rafting and canoeing, to scenic flights and bungee jumping. Alternatively you could relax and enjoy afternoon tea at the beautiful Victoria Falls Hotel.
Day 3 Chobe National Park
Day 3 Chobe National Park
Victoria Falls - Chobe National Park (Botswana). From Victoria Falls, we cover a short distance to the Botswana border, crossing into the small town of Kasane and travelling on to our lodge. In the afternoon, we embark on a game drive and boat cruise in Chobe National Park, renowned for its large elephant population. The park is also home to lion, leopard, hyena, giraffe, and various antelope and bird species.
One highlight of Chobe is the combination of wildlife, birdlife and reptiles seen along the banks of the Chobe River. We enjoy an afternoon cruise for a unique perspective of river-side wildlife. This evening we relax at our lodge.
Day 4 Chobe to Gweta
Day 4 Chobe to Gweta
Chobe National Park - Gweta. After breakfast we set out for Gweta. As we drive south, we may have the opportunity to spot elephants or buffalos, often strays from the migratory herds that freely roam the area in search of pasture and water. We make a stop in the small settlement of Nata for short break before continuing our journey to Gweta. This afternoon there's an optional Baobab Forest tour to see these great natural giants.
Day 5 Maun
Day 5 Maun
Gweta - Maun. Following an early breakfast, we embark on a guided walk through a local Tswana village, gaining insights into the community's life, from schools and doctors to trading and traditions. After our tour, we head west to Maun, the gateway to the Okavango Delta. Maun has experienced rapid growth in recent years and is a bustling provincial centre. The afternoon is free for leisure, allowing us to relax with a refreshing beverage and pack for the Delta excursion the following day.
Day 6 Into the Okavango Delta
Day 6 Into the Okavango Delta
Maun - Okavango Delta. Setting out early after breakfast, we begin our journey into the Okavango Delta. The initial part of the trip involves a 4x4 ride over rough sandy paths to the 'mokoro' station, where the river level is reached. Here, we meet the local Tswana 'polers,' our guides for the excursion, and transfer our luggage and equipment to the mokoros (dug-out canoes). Navigating through giant lily pads, tall grasses, and labyrinthine channels in these shallow canoes, we reach our camp on the edge of the Okavango.
The afternoon is dedicated to a guided walk, offering a chance to spot prolific birdlife and larger mammals in the reserve. The Okavango Delta, spanning over 1,600,000ha, is a natural wetland in northern Botswana, providing an ideal habitat for freely roaming wildlife. We savour the evening wilderness experience, with many finding the overnight camp stay to be an unforgettable adventure.
Day 7 Okavango Nature Walk
Day 7 Okavango Nature Walk
Okavango Delta - Maun. This morning we embark on a nature walk through the wilderness. It's a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the sights, sounds, and smells of the natural world. After our venture into the bush, we indulge in a hearty breakfast and then pack up onto our mokoros, leaving behind nothing but footprints. Bidding farewell to our polers, we return to Maun in our 4x4.
This afternoon there's the option to join our guide for a shopping trip in town. Another popular activity is the optional scenic flight over the 'Delta,' offering a bird’s eye view of the vastness we explored by mokoro and on foot.
Day 8 Khama Rhino Sanctuary
Day 8 Khama Rhino Sanctuary
Maun - Khama Rhino Sanctuary. It's another early rise as we embark on a long journey skirting the greater Kalahari, catching glimpses in the distance of the vast salt pans of central Botswana. Our destination is the Khama Rhino Sanctuary which serves as a prime habitat for white rhino, zebra, wildebeest, and giraffe. Here we embark on a game drive to catch sight of some rhinos, with guides sharing interesting facts about the local fauna and flora.
Our final night on safari is spent on a private nature conservancy situated on the Limpopo River in Botswana’s Tuli Block, home to a variety of wildlife, including antelope, crocodile, hippo, zebra, giraffe, and numerous bird species.
Day 9 Pretoria
Day 9 Pretoria
Tuli Block - Pretoria, South Africa. On our last morning, we join the main route along Martin’s Drift border post. Crossing the mighty Limpopo River into South Africa, we absorb the scenic views and observe changes in vegetation, infrastructure, and populated areas. Our journey ends in Pretoria.
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Prices & Dates
Hotels
Situated in the bohemian town of Victoria Falls, and 400m from the Falls themselves, the affordable accommodation at the Shearwater Explorers Village consists of 5 campsites with modern bathroom facilities, and 16 chalets with en-suite showers and A/C. Shearwater operates a range of activities at the Falls, from bungee jumping to river rafting - and when the day is over, guests can wind down with Wi-Fi in the lounge areas, a drink by the pool, or even a back rub in the massage tent.
Located just 1.4km from Victoria Falls, you're able to see the spray from the hotel when the falls are in full flood. Rooms are comfortable, boasting queen-sized beds, ensuite bathrooms, a safe and climate control. Wi-Fi is available in all areas of the hotel, including outside on the sun terrace. There's a buffet breakfast at the onsite restaurant, and you can also enjoy meals outside by the pool, and enjoy a drink at either of the two bars.
A series of chalets located in shaded gardens away from the hustle and bustle of Maun. Delta Rain's Sitatunga Camp offers travellers an a la carte restaurant, shared lounge, bar and sun terrace. There is free Wi-Fi in communal areas. Chalets come with ensuite bathrooms, ceiling fans and some have air-conditioning. There is also a communal swimming pool for guests to enjoy.
Located on the boundary of the Okavango Delta in Botswana, Elephant Bush Camp is a rustic base for exploring the wildlife-rich Delta. There is an onsite dining area and pool, but the real charm here is the location, with elephants and other wildlife known to get very close to camp. 12 permanent tents form the accommodation, with ensuite bush bathroom including bucket showers. Optional activities including game walks and mokoro canoe trips can be booked onsite.
The Stevensford Game Reserve is an extraordinary sanctuary on the border of Botswana and South Africa. Positioned along the Limpopo River, the reserve offers a privileged location for unparalleled wildlife encounters. Accommodations blend seamlessly with nature, providing spacious and comfortable rooms with stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. The lodge caters to both adventure and relaxation, offering guided safaris, boat excursions, and tranquil lounging areas. With a commitment to sustainability, Stevensford Game Reserve combines modern comfort with the untouched beauty of Botswana's landscapes, ensuring an unforgettable safari experience.
Tour Reviews
Extras and add-ons
Johannesburg Airport private transfer (per vehicle)
Add on: Victoria Falls Airport Shuttle Transfer
Tour Upgrades
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