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Colours of Deadvlei - Southern African Wildlife, Desert and Rivers 2027, Zimbabwe
Colours of Deadvlei  | Peter Walton
Sossusvlei is an area of enormous sand dunes - Southern African Wildlife, Desert and Rivers 2027, Zimbabwe
Sossusvlei is an area of enormous sand dunes  | Andrew Thomasson
Wildlife viewing around Savuti Camp in Chobe National park - Southern African Wildlife, Desert and Rivers 2027, Zimbabwe
Wildlife viewing around Savuti Camp in Chobe National park  | Jez Hollinshead
Wildlife viewing in Etosha National Park - Southern African Wildlife, Desert and Rivers 2027, Zimbabwe
Wildlife viewing in Etosha National Park  | Peter Walton
Makoro, dugout canoes in the Okavango Delta - Southern African Wildlife, Desert and Rivers 2027, Zimbabwe
Makoro, dugout canoes in the Okavango Delta  | Peter Walton
Vast expanses of the Namib Desert - Southern African Wildlife, Desert and Rivers 2027, Zimbabwe
Vast expanses of the Namib Desert  | Nick Lefebvre
Zebras at Etosha National Park - Southern African Wildlife, Desert and Rivers 2027, Zimbabwe
Zebras at Etosha National Park  | Peter Walton
Breathtaking sunset in the Okavango Delta - Southern African Wildlife, Desert and Rivers 2027, Zimbabwe
Breathtaking sunset in the Okavango Delta  | Sue Badyari
Elephants enjoy a dip in the Okavango Delta - Southern African Wildlife, Desert and Rivers 2027, Zimbabwe
Elephants enjoy a dip in the Okavango Delta  | Jez Hollinshead
Photographic opportunities abound at Victoria Falls - Southern African Wildlife, Desert and Rivers 2027, Zimbabwe
Photographic opportunities abound at Victoria Falls  | Peter Walton
Updated

Southern African Wildlife, Desert and Rivers 2027

All encompassing itinerary with excellent accommodation

Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia

15 Days from

$4800 USD

Trip Code: SADV
View dates to Book
Essential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Single Supplement - Entire Trip
$1210 USD
Duration
  • 15 Days
Activities
  • Wildlife Safari
Accommodation
  • 14 nights hotel/lodge/guesthouse
Meals
  • 10 Dinners
  • 1 Lunch
  • 14 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
2 / 10

Adventure touring

Carbon Footprint  

66kg of CO2-e PP per day

(859kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

  • Be captivated by the magnificent Victoria Falls
  • Watch a magnificent sunrise from the top of the Sossusvlei sand dunes
  • Experience game drives in Etosha National Park and Chobe National Park
  • Experience the Okavango Delta by traditional canoe (mokoro)
  • Game viewing cruise on the Chobe River

Overview

Travelling in a comfortable, custom-built expedition vehicle and staying in well-appointed accommodation with plenty of local charm, this journey offers an abundance of stunning scenery, unique wildlife and cultural encounters. The vastness of both Namibia and Botswana become apparent with wide open spaces far outnumbering people. A shorter version of our African Wildlife Explorer trip, this overland journey commences from Victoria Falls Zimbabwe. Be enchanted by a Chobe River sunset, and search for wildlife in the contrasting environments of the Okavango Delta and Etosha National Park. Ascend the highest sand dunes in the world at Sossusvlei; and enjoy cosmopolitan Swakopmund with its relaxed cafe culture and wide, tree-lined streets. The trip concludes in Windhoek Namibia.

Itinerary

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On arrival in Victoria Falls, you are transferred to your accommodation and have free time to explore the town. Victoria Falls is one of Africa’s most spectacular natural landmarks and forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site shared by Zimbabwe and Zambia. The town is known for its local markets, adventure activities and access to the Zambezi River. The afternoon is at leisure before settling into your accommodation for the evening. Accommodation: Waterfalls Lodge or similar

Meals: Nil

Cross into Botswana and travel to the Chobe River, famous for its beautiful scenery, magnificent sunsets and abundance of wildlife and birdlife. Chobe National Park supports one of Africa’s largest concentrations of elephants across riverfront floodplains and woodland habitats. The following day includes a morning game drive and a sunset game-viewing cruise along the Chobe River. Both evenings are spent overlooking the river in one of southern Africa’s most significant wildlife regions. Accommodation: Chobe Safari Lodge or similar

Meals: B,D

Travel through Chobe National Park and continue into Namibia’s Caprivi region before crossing into Botswana towards the Okavango Delta. Arrive at your lodge on the edge of the Okavango Delta surrounded by waterways, floodplains and wetland landscapes. The Okavango Delta is the world’s largest inland delta and supports rich ecosystems within the Kalahari Basin. Spend the evening relaxing ahead of tomorrow’s delta excursions. Accommodation: Swampstop Chalets or Meru tents or similar

Meals: B,D

Transfer by boat into the Nxamasire channels of the Okavango Delta for a full day exploring this unique wetland environment. Mokoro excursions, boat trips and nature walks on smaller islands provide opportunities to experience the delta’s waterways and wildlife up close, subject to water levels. The Okavango Delta supports diverse birdlife and wildlife across one of Africa’s most important inland ecosystems. Return to the lodge in the late afternoon after a full day in the delta. Accommodation: Swampstop Chalets or Meru tents or similar

Meals: B,L,D

Depart the Okavango Delta and cross back into Namibia through the Caprivi Strip. Lush vegetation and riverine landscapes replace the drier environments of earlier days as you continue towards the Kavango River. The river flows from Angola through Namibia before feeding the Okavango Delta in Botswana. Spend the evening overlooking the river and surrounding floodplains from your lodge. Accommodation: Hakusembe River Lodge or similar Hakusembe River Lodge Address: Kanzoni, Owamboland, Namibia, Zufahrt Hakusembe River Road, Rundu, Namibia Phone: +264 61 427 200

Meals: B,D

Travel to Etosha National Park, one of Africa’s most important wildlife reserves. The park is dominated by a vast salt pan visible from space, while surrounding waterholes attract elephant, lion, giraffe, zebra, cheetah and numerous antelope species. In the afternoon, head into the park in open 4x4 vehicles for your first game drive through Etosha’s diverse wildlife habitats. Accommodation: Namutoni Restcamp or similar

Meals: B,D

Spend the day exploring Etosha National Park on an extended game drive through the eastern sector of the reserve. Travel across open plains, around waterholes and along the edge of the immense Etosha Pan while searching for wildlife throughout the park. Large herds of antelope and zebra are commonly seen alongside predators and birdlife across this diverse ecosystem. Return to your lodge in the late afternoon after a full day of wildlife viewing. Accommodation: Etosha Village or similar Etosha Village Address: On the C38 Road from Outjo to Okaukeujo. Southern Etosha, Namibia. Phone: +264 67 333 413

Meals: B,D

Travel through the rugged landscapes of Damaraland, one of Namibia’s most scenic regions. Mountain ranges, wide gravel plains, dry riverbeds and rocky gorges define this remote wilderness environment. Keep watch for elusive desert-adapted elephants and other wildlife that move through these harsh landscapes. Arrive at your mountain lodge in the late afternoon and enjoy spectacular views across the surrounding terrain. Accommodation: Ugab Terrace Lodge or similar Ugab Terrace Lodge Damaraland - No address available Phone: +264 81 140 0179

Meals: B,D

Travel south through the rugged landscapes of Damaraland towards Namibia’s Atlantic coastline. Arrive in Swakopmund and spend time exploring this German colonial town known for its historic architecture, wide streets and coastal setting. The following day is free for independent exploration or optional activities including dolphin cruises and Sandwich Harbour excursions at your own expense. Both evenings are spent in Swakopmund, where desert landscapes meet the Atlantic coastline. Accommodation: The Delight or similar The Delight Address: Theo-Ben Gurirab Ave, Swakopmund, Namibia Phone: +264 64 426 000

Meals: B

Travel south through changing desert landscapes towards accommodation on the edge of the Namib Desert. An early departure the following morning takes you into the dune belt at Sossusvlei where shifting light changes the colour of the towering dunes and clay pans of Deadvlei. A 5km walk explores Sossusvlei and Deadvlei before continuing to Sesriem Canyon for a short afternoon hike. The two days conclude back at camp surrounded by the desert landscapes of the Namib region. Accommodation: Desert Quiver Camp or similar Desert Quiver Camp Address: On D826 / C27, Sossusvlei, Namibia Phone: 021 930 4564

Meals: B,D

Depart Sesriem after breakfast and travel north through Namibia’s changing desert landscapes towards Windhoek. Namibia’s capital city combines German colonial architecture with modern African culture and remains the administrative centre of the country. The afternoon is free to explore the city’s historic buildings, open public spaces and local cafés. Spend your final evening in Windhoek ahead of tomorrow’s departure. Accommodation: Arebbusch Lodge or similar

Meals: B

Enjoy a free morning to further explore the city before your included transfer for your onward flight. Bid farewell to southern Africa as your tour concludes today.

Meals: B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.

Ready to start your adventure?

14 scheduled departures between 6 Feb 2027 and 13 Dec 2027.

  • Departs 6 Feb 2027 – ends 20 Feb 2027 (15 days)
  • Departs 20 Mar 2027 – ends 3 Apr 2027 (15 days)
  • Departs 17 Apr 2027 – ends 1 May 2027 (15 days)
  • Departs 1 May 2027 – ends 15 May 2027 (15 days)
  • Departs 29 May 2027 – ends 12 Jun 2027 (15 days)
  • Departs 5 Jun 2027 – ends 19 Jun 2027 (15 days)
  • … and 8 more departures.
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • 14 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 10 dinners
  • 14 nights in 3-4 star hotels, lodges and guesthouses on a twinshare basis
  • English speaking local driver guide
  • Private transport in custom built expedition vehicle
  • Chobe River game cruise
  • Game drives and sightseeing as listed in itinerary
  • Okavango Delta excursions
  • Arrival and departure transfers are included in Victoria Falls & Windhoek on Days 1 & 15. (NB - Victoria Falls Airport Zimbabwe (VFA) only; and NOT Livingstone Airport Zambia).

Not included

  • International flights
  • Optional activities
  • Entrance into Victoria Falls National Park
  • All lunches and any dinners not noted in the itinerary
  • Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks
  • Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, etc.
  • Tips
  • Airport and departure taxes
  • Visas
  • Travel Insurance
  • Arrival and departure transfers to/from Livingstone Airport (LVI) Zambia, or on any other day other than Days 1 or 15, are NOT included
  • Local cash payment of 3200 South African Rand payable to tour guide on day 1 of all trips
Desert Rivers and Wildlife in Comfort

Extra trip info

AccommodationWill My Trip Run?
Hakusembe River Lodge Located on the Kavango River, this lodge offers a peaceful riverside setting, ideal for relaxing after long travel days and enjoying the natural surrounds.

Namibia – Ugab Terrace Lodge

Positioned in the rugged landscapes of Damaraland, this lodge provides elevated views and a tranquil base to experience one of Namibia’s most dramatic regions.

Hakusembe River Lodge Located on the Kavango River, this lodge offers a peaceful riverside setting, ideal for relaxing after long travel days and enjoying the natural surrounds.

Namibia – Desert Quiver Camp

Modern desert accommodation near Sossusvlei, providing a comfortable base for exploring the iconic dunes and surrounding Namib Desert landscapes.

Hakusembe River Lodge Located on the Kavango River, this lodge offers a peaceful riverside setting, ideal for relaxing after long travel days and enjoying the natural surrounds.

Botswana – Chobe Safari Lodge

Set on the banks of the Chobe River, this well-established safari lodge offers a scenic setting with easy access to river cruises and wildlife viewing in Chobe National Park.

Hakusembe River Lodge Located on the Kavango River, this lodge offers a peaceful riverside setting, ideal for relaxing after long travel days and enjoying the natural surrounds.

Namibia – Hakusembe River Lodge

Located on the Kavango River, this lodge offers a peaceful riverside setting, ideal for relaxing after long travel days and enjoying the natural surrounds.

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.
Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.
Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.
Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings. 

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run. 

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route. 

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

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