Falls, Delta & Cape (Accommodated)
ACCOMMODATED SAFARI: Journey from Zambia to South Africa on this 19-day overland safari. In Livingstone, admire thundering Victoria Falls before departing for Chobe National Park to enjoy a river cruise and game drive. Explore the lush Okavango Delta in Botswana by mokoro canoe and take in the Namibian capital of Windhoek. Search for wildlife in Etosha National Park, relax in Swakopmund and climb Dune 45 in the Namib Desert. Marvel at Fish River Canyon, drive through South Africa's Cederberg wine region and end in the captivating 'Mother City' - Cape Town.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Livingstone
Day 1 Livingstone
Welcome to Livingstone! Today we enjoy an included visit to Mosi Oa Tunya National Park to see the spectacular Victoria Falls. It's one of Africa's finest natural wonders and you can feel the spray even when standing quite far away! You may have time for some optional activities in Livingstone, such as river cruises on the Zambezi and white water rafting - make sure to arrive a few days early if you would like to enjoy these activities.
Please note: Please arrive in Livingstone at least one night before your tour, to ensure you have time to visit Victoria Falls. There will be a pre-departure meeting at 18:00 on the evening prior to departure. Refer to the Joining Instructions in the Trip Notes for more information. We can book a Livingstone Airport arrival transfer and pre-tour accommodation upon request.
Day 2 Chobe River Cruise
Day 2 Chobe River Cruise
Livingstone - Chobe National Park (Botswana). Say goodbye to Zambia as we cross into Botswana today and make the short journey to Kasane, gateway to Chobe National Park. Botswana's premier game reserve is home to all of the Big Five as well as abundant bird life, including the rare African Fish Eagle. This afternoon we enjoy a cruise on the Chobe River, hoping to see elephants, hippos, and crocodiles on the river banks.
Day 3 Chobe National Park
Day 3 Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park - Nata. This morning we enjoy an open vehicle game drive in Chobe National Park, where we hope to spot not only elephants that are so prolific in the park, but also lion and different antelope species.
Bidding farewell to Chobe, we travel south into the Nata region of Botswana. We're likely to spot species such as buffalo as we drive through this sparsely populated region. Our campsite tonight is unfenced, meaning local wildlife is free to wander through camp - our groups often enjoy some of their best wildlife experiences here.
Day 4 Maun
Day 4 Maun
Nata - Maun. Today sees us travelling to Maun, our base for exploring the famed Okavango Delta. If time allows, there is the opportunity for you to take a scenic flight over the delta - if we haven't got time today then this opportunity will be offered on day 30 instead.
Days 5-6 The Okavango Delta
Days 5-6 The Okavango Delta
Maun - Okavango Delta - Maun. On day 5 we enjoy our overnight excursion in specialized safari vehicles into the Okavango Delta. The delta is a natural wetland spread out over more than 1.6 million hectares, home to an incredible diversity of life. Reaching the mokoro polers station, we transfer to these traditional canoes and paddle along the waterways of the delta to our campsite, which is located in the delta itself.
Day 6 sees us enjoying another mokoro ride back out of the delta before returning to Maun, where there is time for the optional scenic flight if we didn't have time for this on day 4.
Day 7 Hello, Namibia
Day 7 Hello, Namibia
Maun - Gobabis (Namibia). Boarding our overland truck, we travel to the Namibian border via Ghanzi, skirting the edge of the barren Kalahari Desert. Having crossed the border, we reach our campsite, and there is an included bush walk with the local San Bushmen, during which we can learn about the way of life for this ancient tribe and discover how they work with, rather than against nature - something we can all learn from! Please note this activity may take place on day 8 instead, depending on our arrival time.
Day 8 Windhoek
Day 8 Windhoek
Gobabis - Windhoek. Today we arrive in Namibia's charming capital. Windhoek is a tiny capital by global standards, with a population of just 470,000 people. It has lots of German architecture, a reminder of Namibia's early colonial past. Our camp is located on the edge of the city, and it is easy to head in to grab a bite to eat and have a wander around if you wish. We recommend a drink at Joe's Beerhouse, perhaps the most famous restaurant in Namibia. Please note that some group members may be starting their tour in Windhoek.
Days 9-10 Etosha National Park
Days 9-10 Etosha National Park
Windhoek - Etosha National Park. The next two days will be spent exploring Namibia's iconic Etosha National Park. This 20,000 square kilometre reserve is dominated by a salt pan, which floods seasonally but is also home to a select few watering holes all year round. Wildlife is easy to spot as the animals tend to gather around these scarce water sources.
We spend two nights in the park, and our itinerary is flexible depending on the conditions and the location of wildlife. We'll generally enjoy a short game drive on day 9 before spending our first night at a camp with a floodlit watering hole. Here you may be lucky enough to spot elephants, giraffe, hyenas and even lions.
Day 10 is spent on a full day's game drive across the park, stopping whenever we see anything of interest. We will either return to our first camp, or perhaps a different one, depending on your tour leader's decision.
Day 11 Spitzkoppe
Day 11 Spitzkoppe
Etosha National Park - Spitzkoppe. Leaving Etosha, we head into the Damaraland region and our destination - Spitzkoppe. At this mountain peak, you can see incredibly well-preserved bushmen paintings and spectacular rock formations reaching 1800 metres above sea level. As the sun moves across the sky, the rocks change colour, a sight that is particularly beautiful at sunrise and sunset. We'll be staying at a campsite at the base of the mountain, so you can enjoy this sunset with a refreshing drink.
Days 12-13 Swakopmund
Days 12-13 Swakopmund
Spitzkoppe - Swakopmund. On day 12 we drive to Swakopmund, a German colonial town located on Namibia's famous Skeleton Coast. The rest of day 12 and the following day are free for you to explore Swakopmund as you see fit. Wander around the town and indulge in the relaxed cafe culture and German colonial architecture. There are also lots of optional activities available including quad-biking, sand boarding, skydiving, and dolphin-watching cruises. See the Trip Notes for further details.
Day 14 Tropic of Capricorn
Day 14 Tropic of Capricorn
Swakopmund - Namib-Naukluft National Park. Heading south, we journey through Namib-Naukluft National Park, which protects large swathes of the Namib Desert. We'll stop for a photo at the Tropic of Capricorn before arriving at our desert camp in the Khomas region.
Day 15 Dune 45, Deadvlei & Sesriem
Day 15 Dune 45, Deadvlei & Sesriem
This morning we head back into Namib-Naukluft National Park, arriving at the desert's most famous landmark - Dune 45. This towering sand dune is more than 300 metres high - you are welcome to try to climb the dune if you are up to it!
Journeying deeper into the park, we arrive at Deadvlei, a white clay pan surrounded by the rolling golden dunes and home to eerie petrified trees. You'll want to remember your camera as the area changes colour with the movement of the sun across the sky. En route to our camp for the night, we also make a stop at Sesriem Canyon.
Day 16 Fish River Canyon
Day 16 Fish River Canyon
Namib-Naukluft National Park - Fish River Canyon. If you thought Sesriem Canyon was impressive, you're in for a treat today! It's a long drive south through desert scenery to reach Fish River Canyon, second only in size to the Grand Canyon in the USA. More than 500 metres deep and scarring the land for 160km, it's a jaw-dropping sight to behold. We'll stop at a couple of viewpoints and visit the canyon's famously sharp bend, known as 'Hell's Corner'.
Day 17 The Orange River
Day 17 The Orange River
Fish River Canyon - Orange River. Travelling south we reach the Orange River, also known as the Gariep. For much of its length, the Orange River marks the border between Namibia and South Africa. Our campsite is located on the Namibian side, and there is an optional canoe safari for those who want to see some of the surrounding scenery.
Day 18 Cederberg & optional wine tasting
Day 18 Cederberg & optional wine tasting
Orange River - Cederberg (South Africa). Crossing the border this morning we enter the seventh and final country of our adventure: South Africa. Driving south through the Namaqualand region, we will be treated to the sight of beautiful wildflowers if travelling in spring (August - September). Arriving at our riverside camp, there is optional wine tasting for those who wish to try some of the Cederberg region's fine wines.
Day 19 Cape Town
Day 19 Cape Town
Cederberg - Cape Town. Today we complete our journey to Cape Town, South Africa's 'Mother City', where our tour comes to an end.
Home to Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront, and some of the world's most spectacular scenery, we strongly recommend booking post-tour accommodation to further explore this iconic city. We can arrange this accommodation for you or you can book it locally.
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Prices & Dates
Hotels
Just a few kilometres from one of Africa's finest natural wonders and found within Mosi oa Tunya National Park, The Victoria Falls Waterfront is an excellent base for discovering the Zambian side of Victoria Falls. Basic chalets are located beside the Luangwa River, in the gardens of the Victoria Falls Waterfront. Boasting air-conditioning, mini-bar, TV, and ensuite facilities with private verandah. There is free Wi-Fi throughout the property, an outdoor pool, restaurant, bar and activity centre offering different experiences at the falls.
Overlooking the Chobe River, this lodge complements the surrounding bush with its rustic design. Its guestrooms are nestled around a courtyard and offer free WiFi, air conditioning and an ensuite. Guests will also enjoy the swimming pool and hearty meals at the Thebe Restaurant. With both covered and al fresco dining areas, this restaurant boasts a wood-fire pizza oven and one of the best breakfasts in town. The bar’s buzzing atmosphere draws both visitors and locals, serving cold beverages alongside a satellite TV for you to catch up on the latest international news and sports.
Set on an unfenced 16,000-hectare private conservancy, this bush lodge brings you face to face with some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife. View elephants as they come to drink from the natural waterhole just meters away. The guestrooms are arranged in spacious chalets and equipped with ensuite bathrooms. A restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, with a bar offering a range of local and international wines, beers and exotic cocktails. You can also enjoy the small outdoor pool, where you can cool off and enjoy the peace and serenity of the African bush.
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.
Situated 25km from the border with Botswana, Zelda's Guest Farm houses 16 simply furnished ensuite chalets. Facilities available to guests include a restaurant, bar and swimming pool. Resident Nharo San families can also introduce guests to their traditional culture. There's a small watering hole onsite and additional game drives and bushman walks can be booked at reception.
Centrally located in Windhoek (a short walk from the legendary Joe's Beerhouse restaurant), Urban Camp combines city convenience with a quiet getaway. Free Wi-Fi and a sparkling pool all contribute to an oasis of calm. Permanent tents come with a private patio and BBQ area with garden views. Nearby is a small shopping centre for amenities, and for sightseers looking to explore the history and architecture of Windhoek, the city centre is less than 2km away.
Featuring a large number of ensuite chalets, the highlight of Okaukuejo Camp is probably the floodlit watering hole, where it is possible to see all manner of animals close up, including elephants, black rhino and antelope. There's also an onsite swimming pool, shop, bar and restaurant serving daily buffet breakfast and other meals. Ensuite rooms feature a fridge as well as tea and coffee-making facilities.
Refurbished in 2007, Namutoni Rest Camp offers a luxury camp within Etosha National Park. Rooms are tastefully decorated all with private terraces to the front and rear. Namutoni is home to the famous German fort which overlooks the King Nehale waterhole. There are also a number of shops and restaurants for guests to enjoy. On an evening why not head up the wooden walkway to the water hole and watch the animals come down to drink. This resort can be found on the eastern side of world famous Etosha National Park.
Staying in the shadow of the dramatic Spitzkoppe rock formations is a memorable experience, and at the Spitzkoppe Community Rest Camp you can enjoy this experience knowing that the proceeds from your stay go straight to supporting the local community. Although there is no electricity or Wi-Fi at this remote camp, guests can enjoy hot showers and there are shared bathroom facilities. There is a small onsite bar and restaurant, and braai BBQ facilities are also provided.
Amanpuri Travellers Lodge offers comfortable accommodation in the heart of Swakopmund, close to the resort town's beaches, restaurants and shops. The onsite restaurant serves a buffet breakfast, you can grab a coffee or a beer at the bar, and there's a communal courtyard for relaxation. Free Wi-Fi connection is available throughout the property. If travelling on one of our Accommodated tours then you will enjoy an ensuite room at Amanpuri, whereas travellers on our camping tours will stay in dorm accommodation with shared bathroom facilities.
On the road to Swakopmund and located just outside the small town of Solitaire, Sossus on Foot (also known as Bushman's Camp) offers 12 ensuite rooms, each with its own verandah for enjoying the desert scenery. Each unit also has its own BBQ facilities and large sliding doors and windows. Hot water is provided via solar showers and there is a small swimming pool for escaping the desert heat. A bar serves refreshing beers and there is a private watering hole for guests to watch the local wildlife.
Surrounded by desert and found at the edge of Namib-Naukluft National Park, the pitches at this campsite are shaded by camel thorn trees and facilities include power outlets, water, lighting and a BBQ area. There's an onsite pool and shared bathroom facilities including showers with wonderful desert views! The Sossus Oasis shop sells a range of drinks, ice wood and other amenities. The restaurant at nearby Sossusvlei Lodge also comes well recommended.
Littered with old car relics, some beautifully restored, the Canyon Road House is fast becoming one of Namibia's most iconic places to stay. With a beautiful bar in the middle of a museum of old vehicles, it really gives a feeling of the olden days. Rooms are designed in a beautiful bright style with stylish wooden furnishings. Take a dip in the refreshing outdoor pool overlooked by an authentic farm windmill making you feel like you are in the heart of the Wild West! This accommodation is located close to Fish River Canyon - the second biggest canyon in the world!
On the banks of the Orange River, Felix Unite Provenance Camp has 17 en suite cabanas which offer stunning views of the river, and have air conditioning and ceiling fans. The camp includes an outdoor pool, restaurant and bar. There are also internet facilities for those needing to stay connected. Why not head out on one of the many river trips available and see all the Orange River region has to offer.
Offering a 12 roomed lodge, with ensuite bathrooms and air-conditioning, Highlanders Lodge and Campsite is located in the heart of the beautiful Namaqualand wine-producing region of South Africa, at the foot of the Cederberg Mountains. Onsite food is locally sourced and there's a well-stocked wine bar next to the outdoor swimming pool. If travelling in winter you'll be glad of the fireplace and pool table. In better weather wine tasting and activities such as mountain biking or wild river swimming are possible.
Tour Reviews
Guide and driver were phenomenal
Your was good however truck was old and in poor condition. Rattled like hell and was unbearable in some Areas without headphones on. Accommodation was suitable but certainly nothing flash. Often seemed to be in the worst of the rooms available in the nicer places like Victoria falls. Elephant sands. Guides however were excellent and had no issues with them and they cooked some good meals. However did find you would need to substitute a lot of your own food into the days. Would I recommend the tour. Yes for a budget traveler. Would I recommend on the go. No. There were much nicer transport options from other providers
Extras and add-ons
Add on: Livingstone Airport Shuttle Transfer
Add on: Cape Town Airport Shuttle Transfer
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