Countries: Namibia , Botswana , Zimbabwe
Destinations: Etosha National Park , Kavango-Zambezi Region (formerly Caprivi) , Chobe National Park , Victoria Falls
Group Size: 16
Duration (days): 10
Number of Adults: 16
Number of Children: 0
Discover the diverse African culture amongst abundant wildlife and lush riverine forests. Compare the wildlife in relatively dryer Etosha to the different game along three major rivers in the Zambezi and Chobe area.
Itinerary Outline
Day 1 : Etosha National Park
Departing Windhoek we travel north through extensive cattle farming areas and bushland to the Etosha National Park, famous for its vast amount of wildlife and unique landscape. In the late afternoon, once we have reached our camp located on the outside of the National Park, we have the rest of the day at leisure.
Etosha Safari Camp or similar
Out-of-this-world landscapes and panoramas make Namibia a photographer's dream destination. While not as much of a wildlife destination as other countries, Namibia makes up for this with phenomenal scenery, cultures and activities.
Namibia is a desolate and largely uninhabitable country, well-known mainly for its deserts and coastline. However, there is far more to the destination.
Namibia is home to some fascinating people, and in the right season, can provide you with some of the best game viewing on the continent.
When travelling Namibia, the distances are vast, and often you will go without seeing another vehicle, or person, for hours.
Around every bend of the road awaits another breathtaking landscape, with wide open spaces and incredible colours giving you photo opportunities at all times of day.
Below are a few of the popular areas frequented by travellers to Namibia, and they are places which will remain in your memories forever:
Meaning "Place of Dry Water," Etosha is the best wildlife destination in Namibia, and at certain times of year can rival any game reserve in Africa.
Formed around the enormous and beautiful Etosha Salt Pan, the national park is home to an incredible number of species, including black rhino, the endemic black faced impala, thousands upon thousands and springbok, zebra, wildebeest and the majestic gemsbok (oryx).
During the dry season, these animals are drawn in their masses to the very few remaining water holes, and it is not uncommon to see a few hundred of several different species all in one location at one time.
Being roughly a 5 hour drive from Windhoek, Etosha National Park is also accessible by air, and is definitely a highlight of a Namibian safari itinerary.
Down to earth, relaxed, innovative and charming are Etosha Safari Camps alluring qualities - and of course, its proximity to Etosha National Park. This friendly safari camp has cosy accommodation set between the mopane trees, an inviting circular swimming pool, a lush green campsite and ample character. Extending the theme of Etosha as being a Place of Legends, Etosha Safari Camp takes it one step further by bringing home the story and spirit of Africa. And the result is - legendary! Here, the typical informal bar or shebeen, well-known and beloved throughout southern Africa, is given expression in the Okambashu (Our home) restaurant and Oshebeena bar with local colour and country bric-a-brac.
A delicious array of food is laid out on an old train compartment. Guests have a choice of dining in the intriguing township dining rooms, around fireplaces in the cooler months or outside in the courtyard where The Etosha Boys strum guitars and sing lively local songs. African wildlife takes priority during the day at this Etosha camp, only a short drive from Andersson Gate, the portal to the magnificence of the animal kingdom.
Explore the national park on your own or join our professional guides for an enlightening and informative wildlife journey. Or do both, with a break in the day for a siesta at the Camp. From the black-faced impala to the wizened elephant giants and lion kings, the wild world is simply spellbinding. As the end of the day approaches, race the sun home to Etosha Safari Camp to laughter, comfort and good cheer. Tap toes to the beat of Africa.
Day 2 : Etosha National Park
The day is devoted purely to the abundant wildlife found in the Etosha National Park, which surrounds a parched salt desert known as the Etosha Pan. The park is home to 4 of the Big Five - elephant, lion, leopard and rhino. The Park was proclaimed as Namibia's first conservation area in 1907 by the then Governor, von Lindequist. Despite the size of the Etosha National Park, only the southern edge of the pan is accessible to visitors. Game viewing in the park is primarily focussed around the waterholes, some of which are spring fed and some supplied from a borehole, ideal places to sit and watch over 114 different game species, or for an avid birder, more than 340 bird species. Popular game species such as giraffe, blue wildebeest, plains and mountain zebra, hyena, lion, leopard, antelopes such as kudu, oryx, eland, as well as some of the endangered species such as Black rhino, cheetah and the black-faced impala are all found here. An extensive network of roads link the over 30 water holes allowing visitors the opportunity of a comprehensive game viewing safari throughout the park as each different area will provide various encounters.
La Rochelle Lodge - Breakfast
Nestled amongst chalky plains with islands of Makalani palms towering the sky and Acacia thickets wrapped with endless grasslands you will find the 10 000ha lodge, La Rochelle. Home to a myriad of bird life and game species which allows for photographic game drives and waterhole sightings. Our guest Lldge boasts a large selection of accommodation: bungalows, family rooms and luxury suite. La Rochelle restaurant prides itself in using local produce as much as possible, to aid its intercontinental style of menu, and we offer a concise wine selection to accompany our dishes. Situated only 40 km north of Tsumeb on the newly tarred road M75 to Tsintsabis and the Okavango River, close to the eastern gate of Etosha Park, Guinas and Otjiikoto lakes. And another place of interest close to us is the Hoba meteorite which lies between Tsumeb and Grootfontein.
Day 3 : Kavango-Zambezi Region (formerly Caprivi)
After breakfast, we travel north towards Namibia’s lush Kavango region. En route, we pass numerous villages lining the roadside. We arrive at our lodge just outside to Rundu, known for its rich selection of hand-made wooden crafts. With its magnificent woodlands and perennial rivers, the Kavango region contrasts sharply with the rest of Namibia. Large swathes of tall woodland, riverine forests, floodplains and reed-lined channels dominate the area. This is also the area where you will see many of the traditional huts and homesteads still in popular use today. At our lodge, we can enjoy an optional Sundowner boat cruise on the Okavango River.
Taranga Safari Lodge - Breakfast
Kavango-Zambezi Region (formerly Caprivi)
In the north east of Namibia, bordering Angola, Botswana and Zambia, the Caprivi region is a mosaic of woodlands, rivertine forests, swamps and rivers and home to an abundance of game and birds. Community campsites and joint venture lodges are set in amazing places.
The wildlife is protected by several reserves: Mamili, Bwabwata, Lizauli and Mudumu. There are no fences, therefore the animals roam freely across the borders of Namibia's neighbouring countries, Botswana and Zambia.
Caprivi land based activities include exciting game drives and walking safaris, while the tranquil waterways are ideal for game viewing by boat, canoeing and tiger fishing. Birdwatchers will have a wonderful time spotting more than 400 species of bird..
The Okavango River remains as one of the greatest water experiences of Africa. Taranga Safari Lodge is a luxury bush camp perched on the edge of this famous river. Situated on stilts amongst tall riverine trees the tented cottages are great vantage points from which to experience the magic of the area - the sights and sounds of the African bush and views across the river onto the nearby flood plains. Daily guided river safaris taking you out for an adventure; an early sunrise cruise through the rising early morning river mist or a late afternoon sundowner or fly fishing. You may plan to go on a bushwalk, traditional village tour or choose to celebrate the end of a lazy day by spending memorable time at night around the fire pit stargazing. Everything at the lodge focuses on relaxation and enjoying the African wilderness at your own pace. The large wooden decks offer a private and idyllic location for those wishing to unwind. You'll find a swimming pool at the main deck to keep everyone cool or allow you to just relax and enjoy the African sun.
Day 4 : Kavango-Zambezi Region (formerly Caprivi)
After breakfast, we follow the route of the Okavango River into the Zambezi Region. At the small town of Divindu we stop at the Khwe San village, whereby we listen to stories of the bushman culture, traditions and see some of their desert survival skills. Lush, green, riverine – that is what the Zambezi region looks like. This juxtaposition is what makes Namibia the “Land of Contrasts”. The area is typified by perennial rivers and large forests of trees. Whereas most of Namibia is arid, this area is lush, the soil rich and the wildlife plentiful. It is a lively hotbed where one can see subsistence and cattle farming and the well-known traditional wood carvings. From the banks of the Okavango River directly at the footsteps of our lodge we have a magnificent view onto the Popa Falls, a series of small rapids in paradisiacal environment before arriving at our lodge on the banks of the Okavango river and close to the Mahango National Park where the following two nights are spent along the lush vegetation. Our rooms award us with an uninhibited view onto the Buffalo Park across the river. Optionally we can enjoy a late afternoon boat cruise on the Okavango River or short walk to a local Habukushu village. The lodge also offers Wellness treatments.
Shametu River Lodge – Breakfast
Opened in July 2016, Shametu River Lodge is situated 7 km southwest of Divundu in the central Caprivi region of Namibia.
Positioned along the banks of the Kavango River, the lodge provides the finest views of the Popa Rapids available from any privately owned lodge in the vicinity. Guests can partake in river activities, embark on game drives into the Bwabwata and Mahango national parks, and visit nearby villages.
Day 5 : Kavango-Zambezi Region (formerly Caprivi)
After an early breakfast, we travel into the Mahango National Park. Being Namibia’s smallest but most densely populated National Park, the visit will be rewarding in terms of wildlife and bird watching. The Mahango National Park has a high number of elephants, as well as fair numbers of antelopes which are scarce or not seen in other parts of Namibia. These include the roan and sable antelope, tsessebe and the red lechwe. The park is also home to several sitatunga. The Mahango National Park is an excellent destination for bird watching with over 400 species to be spotted. Optional afternoon walk to a local village.
Shametu River Lodge – Breakfast
Day 6 : Kavango-Zambezi Region (formerly Caprivi)
We depart the Mahango National Park and travel across the Zambezi Region, (prev. Caprivi) to the lush woodlands of the Zambezi River. Hundreds of elephants, large Buffalo herds and numerous antelopes roam these majestic riverine woods. With over 400 species of birds, this area counts as one of the best birding hotspots in the whole of southern Africa. After settling in you have the option to participate in an optional afternoon guided activity.
Chobe River Camp - breakfast
Enjoy the peaceful solitude on the banks of the Chobe River, overlooking the floodplains. Our lodge offers 20 tented chalets, designed to provide extraordinary experiences. Inspired by the natural beauty of the landscape, the chalets are built using local Mopane timber and canvas, creating a beautiful and eco-friendly setting.
Visiting the camp promises a unique and wonderful experience. You’ll encounter large herds of zebras, elephants, wildebeests, and antelopes. Though activities may vary by season, they are sure to amaze and intrigue our guests.
Chobe River Camp is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers, making it the perfect getaway.
Location: About 4 km from the Ngoma border post between Botswana and Namibia.
Day 7 : Chobe National Park
After breakfast, we travel across the border to Kasane, a small and bustling town right on the edge of the Chobe National Park. Our room for the following night is in a special corner of the African wilderness, where two mighty rivers meet, a wetland paradise that is a haven for nature and wildlife. Discover the wonders of this magical destination. Here wildlife roams freely in profusion and diversity. It is home to the largest concentration of elephant in Africa, while other game consists of large herds of buffalo, puku, lechwe, bushbuck and kudu. Other significant species such as lion, leopard, wild dog, sable and roan antelope are encountered in many areas of the adjacent game reserve. In the we afternoon embark on a guided Chobe sunset river cruise along the National Park to experience the multitude of game species found along the banks of the Chobe River.
Cresta Mowana Lodge – Breakfast, 1 afternoon activity
Well known as one of the great safari destinations in Africa, Botswana offers some of the most beautiful, luxurious, and active safari experiences in Africa.
A Botswanan safari can never be long enough, and never experienced often enough. Although one of the flattest countries you will ever visit, Botswana is blessed with an incredible variety of landscapes and eco-systems.
It is the very flatness of Botswana which has created some of the world's most special wilderness areas, and exploring the Kalahari, Okavango Delta and Makgadikgadi Salt Pans rewards you with memories for a lifetime.
Easily accessible from Johannesburg, and simply combined with Victoria Falls, Botswana needs to be on your safari list if you are planning a visit to Southern Africa.
As soon as you land in Maun or Kasane, you will know that you have arrived in a country which operates like nothing you have experienced before.
With the warthogs running through the streets of Kasane, and the hippos grunting in the Chobe River, your welcome to Botswana is one which tells you straight away you are in Africa's wilds.
Accessed easily via a 1.5 hour flight from Johannesburg, or a 1 hour drive from Victoria Falls, Chobe National Park is the most visited park on a Boswana safari itinerary.
With an enormous elephant population, as well as magnificent birdlife and a huge array of herbivores and aquatic animals, it is often hard to believe that Chobe National Park is for real.
The game viewing starts from the moment you land at Kasane Airport, or drive across the border from Zambia or Zimbabwe, with warthogs foraging in the streets, buffalo being habitual visitors to the town, and hippos lazing around in the river.
Cresta Mowana Safari Resort & Spa
Situated on the banks of the mighty Chobe River, luxury exists in harmony with nature at Cresta Mowana Safari Resort & Spa. This is a unique location from which to explore the magical wonders of untamed Africa. Plentiful wildlife, including herds of elephant, antelope, giraffe, zebras, lions, leopard and more, roam freely in the nearby Chobe Game Park. Sunrises and sunsets, with the river and Namibian flood plains as a backdrop, are the stuff of dreams.
In these tranquil surroundings, experience true comfort, superb accommodation, gourmet cuisine, Africa-inspired menus, and only the very best of personalised African hospitality.
Day 8 : Victoria Falls
Early this morning we take part in an optional game drive through the Chobe National Park, offered by the lodges own activity centre. With a cup of coffee or tea enjoy the sunrise and natures awakening before departing on an open game drive with lodge rangers, exploring the national park and see the forage of wildlife along the Chobe River such as elephants, Lechwe, Roan or Waterbuck. Returning to the lodge breakfast is served on the terrace overlooking the river. After breakfast on the Chobe River Front our guide takes us across the border to Zimbabwe, where we reach our ultimate destination on this Safari. The afternoon is available for an amplitude of activities offered in and around Victoria Falls.
Shearwater Explorer Village - Breakfast
Zimbabwe - a treasure trove of breathtaking wilderness, vibrant wildlife, and awe-inspiring natural wonders. From the iconic Victoria Falls, where the mighty Zambezi River plunges into dramatic gorges, to the serene waters of Lake Kariba and the untamed beauty of Hwange and Mana Pools, Zimbabwe is a safari destination like no other.
This remarkable country offers an unparalleled diversity of experiences. Explore the vast savannahs of Hwange National Park, home to one of the largest elephant populations in Africa, or paddle along the tranquil channels of the Lower Zambezi, where hippos and crocodiles linger at every turn. Thrill-seekers will delight in world-class canoeing and white-water rafting, while nature enthusiasts will revel in walking safaris led by some of Africa's most experienced guides.
What truly sets Zimbabwe apart is its people. Warm, resilient, and welcoming, Zimbabweans add a unique vibrancy to every journey. Their deep connection to the land and dedication to conservation make every visit more meaningful.
Whether you're drawn by the roar of Victoria Falls, the call of the wild, or the chance to experience one of Africa's most storied landscapes, Zimbabwe promises an adventure filled with wonder and unforgettable moments.
"Mosi Oa Tunya", or "The Smoke That Thunders", Victoria Falls are as magnificent on the 10th visit as they are on the 1st, and their thundering roar makes everything else seem strangely quiet once you leave them behind.
As the mighty Zambezi flows over a chasm of 1 mile wide, and 110 metres high, to violently crash on the rocks below, the resultant spray is sent tens of metres up into the air, before it lands back down in a continuous rainfall. The water then rushes through an opening of only 50 metres, as the Zambezi races further along, over churning rapids and through the deep Batoka Gorge.
While the Falls are the major drawcard, there is a thriving tourist industry developed around them, with adventure activities of all forms being available.
Tourism has been evident here ever since David Livingstone was the first European guided by the local tribes to this remarkable natural wonder.
AFFORDABLE VICTORIA FALLS ACCOMMODATION
The 96 roomed Shearwater Explorers Village is a superb 3 star Lodge situated only 400 m from the Victoria Falls.
The property boasts 54 deluxe rooms, 42 standard rooms and also offers some serviced camping facilities.
It is so close to the Falls that it occasionally receives an early morning shower from the Falls spray. The property overlooks virgin African bush and a waterhole frequently visited by elephant and buffalo and yet it is very near the craft markets and entertainment district.
So location is certainly a primary benefit, along with amazing gardens supporting fantastic birdlife, great ambience & cuisine and true value for money.
Day 9 : Victoria Falls
Together with our guide, we join a local guided excursion to Victoria Falls to discover why the Victoria Falls is one of the seven natural wonders on Earth as we explore it on foot. This dramatically beautiful event is accompanied by a deafening roar and fine spray that arcs up into the sky, giving the falls its local name: Mosi-oa-Tunya - the "Smoke that Thunders”. Afterwards, visit a craft market where we can purchase or look at handmade crafts of the local inhabitants (optional), before returning to our hotel, located centrally in town. Here the remainder of the day is at leisure.
Shearwater Explorer Village - Breakfast