Focus on Botswana

BRIEF ITINERARY

Days 1-2: Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe - Ilala Lodge

The Victoria Falls are one of the Seven Wonders of the World and is the largest sheet of falling water on earth - a spell binding and mesmerizing spectacle. The sheer mass of water cascading down the 300ft drop across for over 1 mile makes a thunderous roar and creates a magnificent spray of water that can be seen for miles - hence the local name 'mosi oa tunya' meaning 'the smoke that thunders'.  It is a lovely tourist town which is easy to explore on foot and which offers a wide range of activities from the challenge of white water rafting and bungee jumping, to awe-inspiring elephant back safaris and sunset cruises. It has something for everyone!

Days 3-4: Chobe National Park, Botswana - Chobe Elephant Camp

On the morning of Day 3, you will be transferred by road to Chobe Elephant Camp at the far western end of the Chobe River (away from the congestion of the Kasane area).  The Chobe River Front is a remarkable wildlife area due to the permanent water source of the Chobe River. The spectacle of all the animals coming to drink and frolic at the water's edge is one to behold, particularly in the dry season (May - Oct) where water is scarce away from the river. It is an area famous for its abundance of elephants, a variety of predators and, in addition, you are likely to see herds of buffalo and possibly even roan and sable antelope.  The spectacular Chobe sunsets alone are worth a visit to the area.  Activities include boat trips on the river, game drives, and visits to local communities.

Days 5-6: Khwai River, border of Moremi Reserve, Botswana - Machaba Camp

On the morning of day 5 you will be transferred to the Kasane Airport for you flight to Machaba Camp. Although the Khwai area is not officially part of the Moremi Game Reserve it can be seen as an extension of it as there are no fences and animals are free to roam. Khwai was established by the former inhabitants of the reserve (the River Bushmen) and is now managed by the community through the Khwai Development Trust. The wildlife experience in Khwai is the same as inside the reserve with the key advantage being the freedom to participate in walking safaris, off-road driving and night drives.  This area is famous for large concentrations of game, including elephants and predators.  It's one of the best places in Africa to see the rare African wild dog.  Activities include day and night game drives, bush walks, and mokoro trips.

Days 7-8: Okavango Delta, Botswana - Pelo Camp

On the morning of Day 7 you will fly to your final destination, Pelo Camp deep in the Okavango.  The Okavango Delta is one of the world's largest inland deltas situated in the middle of the largest stretch of continuous sand in the world - the Kalahari basin. This oasis in the middle of the desert is a rich yet fragile ecosystem, providing a life source for an incredible variety of birdlife, hippos, crocs, antelopes, elephants, and predators.  Pelo is a water based camp where you can fully absorb the watery environment of the Okavango.  Activities include mokoro and boat trips, bush walks, and fishing.

Day 9:  Departure

After an early morning activity (time permitting) and breakfast, you will be transferred by plane to Maun Airport, for your onward travel arrangements.

There are no set departure dates for this safari.  Simply let us know the dates you'd like to travel and we'll check on availability.  If some of the lodges in the itinerary are full we can find alternatives, though this may change the rate.

Ilala Lodge is situated close to the Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe as well as to the town center.  Wild animals are often seen grazing the hotel lawns as the National Park borders the front of the property.  Conveniently located, is within walking distance to the Victoria Falls entrance.  There is an à la carte restaurant which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and offers a comprehensive wine list and cocktails. 

Chobe Elephant Camp: Located high on the edge of a rocky ridge overlooking the famous Chobe River is the newly developed Chobe Elephant Camp.  This uniquely designed lodge has been built to take advantage of the incredible views overlooking the sweeping floodplains while offering a comfortable refuge from the harsh African conditions.  It houses ten rooms and can sleep 24 guests at a time.

Machaba Camp is situated in the game rich Khwai area, on the eastern tongue of the Okavango Delta. The camp is built in the classic 1950’s style, with luxury safari tents, en-suite bathrooms and romantic outdoor showers. All the tents are situated on the ground and the pathways to the tents meander between the large riverine trees. All 10 luxury tents are situated in the beautiful riverine tree line on the Khwai River, overlooking the famous Moremi Game Reserve. From these tented verandas one can watch the daily parade of animals coming down to drink at the river in front of camp.

Pelo Camp is situated on an island deep in the Okavango Delta.  The camp is completely eco-friendly and is ideal for the adventurous traveler wanting a classic, traditional Okavango Delta experience.   The camp’s main area consists of a dining area, lounge and bar with an extended deck overlooking the floodplains beyond.  Each of the five spacious guest tents have en-suite bathrooms, indoor and outdoor shower and private decks with views out onto the delta.  Activities focus on mokoro excursions, walking, and boating.

INCLUDED:  Road & air transfers between camps, meals/local drinks as indicated, lodging, activities offered at lodges, Botswana park fees.

EXCLUDED: International flights, pre- or post-safari accommodation/extensions, premium drinks/wine, optional activities, Victoria Falls entrance fee, visas, travel insurance, gratuities, personal items.

PAYMENT: A non-refundable, 20% deposit is required to confirm booking.  Balance is due 7 weeks before departure. 

Other terms & conditions apply.