When to go
March - October
Price
From £6,995 pp (including flights) | Private: £8,950pp (including flights)
Flight time
11hrs 5mins + 1hr 40 min
Introduction
Zimbabwe and Botswana are two African countries that offer a unique and unforgettable experience to nature enthusiasts. Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, while Botswana’s Okavango Delta is a pristine wilderness home to vast concentrations of wildlife. Both countries boast rich cultural heritage, warm hospitality, and breath-taking landscapes that make them must-visit destinations.
At a Glance
Duration
11 days & 8 nights
Guide price
Group: from £6,995pp (including flights) | Private: from £8,950pp (including flights)
Cities/Destinations (in order)
Johannesburg – Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe – Chobe National Park, Botswana – Okavango Delta – Johannesburg
Tour Type
Experienced local tour manager and specialist guest speakers
Tour Theme
Group Tour
Activity Level
Age Range
N/A
Star Rating of Tour
Superior
Accommodation
Ilala Lodge in Victoria Falls | Chobe Safari Lodge in Botswana |Mopiri or Mogotlho in Okavango Delta |
Board Basis
Varied - please see the sample itinerary for details
Min|Max Group Size
Average 10 people with a maximum of 18
Start/Finish
Johannesburg/Victoria Falls – Johannesburg
Extensions
Please enquire to extend stays in Kalahari Desert or Cape Town
Highlights
The Victoria Falls – David Livingstone Connection
One of the greatest natural spectacles in the world and a World Heritage Site, Victoria Falls. It was referred to as Mosi-oa-Tunya, or “the smoke that thunders,” by the natives. In 1855, upon the discovery of the Falls by the Scottish explorer David Livingstone, he gave it the English name Victoria Falls. Dive deep into the legendary story of the Victoria Falls and learn the details directly from an expert.
Townships’ Visit with a Peak behind the Scenes of Ndau Art Studio
Explore local townships through guided tours with experienced natives. Get a look at the behind-the-scenes actions that take place in the Ndau art studios, a creative studio famed for master-level craftsmanship in leather accessories as well as beaded and silver jewellery.
Safari lodges and Tented Camps for Optimal Wildlife Viewing
Experience the true African vibes and enjoy wildlife viewing from top-rated safari lodges and tended camps. They combine comfort along with the thrilling ambience of the surrounding wildlife.
Okavango Delta Aerial View
Take a unique aerial view of the UNESCO-listed Okavango Delta. You will see a picturesque view of the wide Okavango River as it rushes into the Kalahari Desert, forming a lush waterlogged oasis. The delta features crystal-clear lagoons and channels, expansive floodplains, and lush forests. No wonder it is referred to as the “Evergreen Crown Jewel of Botswana”.
Sample Itinerary
Adventuring into the Wilderness of Zimbabwe and Botswana: A Sample Itinerary
From witnessing the majestic Victoria Falls to exploring the vast wildlife reserves of the Okavango Delta, Zimbabwe and Botswana offer a diverse range of natural wonders and cultural experiences. Meet friendly locals, learn their rich history, and enjoy the breath-taking scenery in this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Day 1: Fly to Victoria Falls via Johannesburg
Head to the London airport to catch an overnight flight to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe via Johannesburg, South Africa.
(Flight Included | Airport Transfer | N)
Day 2: Victoria Falls
Check-in at the Ilala Lodge (or similar) for a 3-night stay. This evening, join your group of travellers for a pre-dinner presentation led by a distinguished guest speaker who will share fascinating stories about the renowned explorer, David Livingstone.
(D)
Day 3: Victoria Falls
Begin your day by immersing yourself in the authentic African atmosphere with a visit to a remote rural village. Here, you will have the opportunity to witness first-hand the daily life and customs of the local community. Complete the authentic experience with lunch at Dusty Road, a traditional restaurant offering exquisite combinations of authentic Zimbabwean cuisine.
The afternoon is all yours to spend at leisure. In the evening, cruise through the magnificent Zambezi River while enjoying dinner aboard the Malachite Cruise, named after the gorgeous bird. Enjoy the peaceful hues of the sunset as you sip on a cocktail and listen to a captivating history talk.
(B, L, D)
Day 4: Victoria Falls
Today, it’s time for a private guided tour to one of the seven Natural Wonders of The World, Victoria Falls. In addition to witnessing this natural wonder of the world up close, you will also acquire knowledge about the formation and geology of the falls, the ecosystem of the surrounding rainforest, the courageous adventures of the colonial explorers, and the indigenous tales about ‘The Smoke that Thunders’.
Next, a visit to the Elephant Walk shopping and artist village, a shopping centre like no other, a vibrant mix of local artists, retailers, and artisan studios. It has a wide range of outlets showcasing some of Africa’s finest arts and hand-crafted goods and collectables including ornaments, vases, sculptures and other artworks. The visit includes a special stop at the Ndau Studios, a design house that specializes in leather accessories along with sterling silver and bead jewellery. You will also have the opportunity to observe the local artists and craftsmen in action.
Enjoy lunch with spectacular views of the Zambezi River flowing more than 100 m below at the open-air Lookout Café. This exceptional lunch is followed by leisure time to soak up as much of beautiful Zimbabwe as you can.
(B, L)
Day 5: Chobe National Park, Botswana
Bid farewell to Zimbabwe as you cross the border and head to Botswana. Check-in at the Chobe Safari Lodge (or similar) for a 3-night stay, then spend your afternoon at leisure enjoying the ambience.
After that, let the adventure begin! Drive to Botswana’s first national park, Chobe National Park. Chobe is one of the best national parks in Southern Africa. Take a classic safari drive and watch the diverse range of wildlife that Chobe is famous for.
(B, L, D)
Days 6 & 7: Chobe National Park, Botswana
Chobe offers you a plethora of activities to fill the next 2 days with. From the dazzling deep blue Chobe River safari to the exciting land safari amidst the lush vegetation, Chobe National Park is a true wildlife paradise. Unwind with a dip in the lodge’s pool while enjoying the ambience of the African wilderness.
(B, L, D)
Day 8: Okavango Delta
In the morning, catch a short flight to the world’s largest inland Delta, the Okavango Delta on the banks of Botswana. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its superb and exclusive wildlife. The Okavango Delta referred to as the “Jewel of the Kalahari” is located deep within the Kalahari Basin and is fed by the Okavango River. Enjoy an afternoon water safari through the Delta’s meandering waterways, passing by thick woodland, lush vegetation and rich wildlife.
Spend 2 nights at Mopiri or Mogotlho.
(B, L, D)
Day 9: Okavango Delta
Spend another day exploring Africa’s greatest natural sanctuary, the Okavango Delta. During the time of year when the delta swells almost three times in size (typically late June to late September), you can enjoy a mokoro cruise along the delta waters. The mokoro is a traditional dugout canoe, with different vantage points allowing for maximum wildlife viewing along the cruise.
(B, L, D)
Days 10 & 11: Fly to the UK via Johannesburg
In the morning, enjoy one last safari drive, then head to Maun for a transfer to Johannesburg. Catch a direct flight to the UK, arriving early in the following morning. You can also extend your African adventure to enjoy the splendour of the Kalahari Desert or the vibrant atmosphere of Cape Town.
(Flight Included | Airport Transfer | B)
