Sunway Logo

Your Cookie & Data Settings

We use cookies to help you navigate efficiently and perform certain functions.

The cookies that are categorized as "Necessary" are stored on your browser as they are essential for enabling the basic functionalities of the site.

We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze how you use this website, store your preferences, and provide the content and advertisements that are relevant to you. These cookies will only be stored in your browser with your prior consent.

You can choose to enable or disable some or all of these cookies, but disabling some of them may affect your browsing experience.

Necessary Cookies Always Active
Advertising User Data
Advertising Personalisation
Advertising Storage
Analytics Storage


Adventure Tours   >   Africa Adventure Tours   >  Best of Southern Africa

Best of Southern Africa Adventure Tour

Africa

  • Botswana
  • South Africa
  • Zimbabwe

Make those African safari dreams come true on this amazing adventure through some of the greatest national parks in southern Africa, like Kruger and Chobe, to search for nature's wildest animals in their natural habitats. Visit the verdant green waterways of the Okavango Delta, which also happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage site. Be on the lookout for the famed “big five” as you drive on safari through Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe, and feel the rush and power behind the epic Victoria Falls where you'll also enjoy a family dinner at a private home nearby; the best way to get to know the true heart of Zimbabwe.


Important Notes  

1. TRAVEL DAYS
This is not a physically demanding journey; however, travelling can be difficult, with long drives and poor road conditions at times. Despite this, most clients feel that the diversity of the African landscape, countries, culture and wildlife are all well worth the experience. We use a comfortable and safe air-conditioned vehicle for the long drives.

2. INTERNAL FLIGHT WEIGHT RESTRICTIONS
Planes used to fly into the Delta are small and weight restrictions are mandatory. For this reason luggage restrictions are 15kg per person for checked in luggage and 5kg for Hand luggage for a maximum of 20kg per person. As well, the airline requires the weight of each passenger, your CEO will collect this information from you privately, at the beginning of the trip.

3. COMBO TRIP
Please note that this tour combines with other G Adventures tours. As such, the staff and some travel companions on your tour may have previously been traveling together with G Adventures, prior to Day 1 of your tour. Likewise, some staff and travel companions may be continuing together on another G Adventures tour, after your trip concludes.

4. EXTRAS
Looking to add to your experience? Check out our Extras! Specially designed for travellers with unique interests, Extras are optional add-ons to your G adventures trip that make your adventure more you-centric. Extras must be booked prior to departure, please see details in our optional activities field and ask your sales GCO or travel agent about booking.

5. YELLOW FEVER
According to the WHO and CDC, there is no risk of yellow fever in Botswana. It is compulsory to show a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate if you are travelling to Botswana from a Yellow Fever endemic country, or have recently travelled to a Yellow Fever endemic country (with entry stamps in your passport), including the following countries (but not limited to): Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Cote d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast) Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea Zambia, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, São Tomé and Príncipe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela.

**We advise all travelers to Botswana who are coming from one of the above countries, or who have visited them in the last 10 years, to be prepared with a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate or letter from your doctor with proof of vaccination. Yellow Fever inoculations need to be administered at least 10 days prior to your entry into the country. Border officials in Botswana have been strictly enforcing these requirements. Travelers without the correct documentation run the risk of being denied entry, and will not be able to continue with the tour. (Any additional travel expenses will be on your own account.) **

6. MONEY EXCHANGE
We strongly advise that you bring ZAR or USD from your home country or exchange money before the start of the tour, to avoid delays on tour. Please see the Money Exchange section for more details.

7. DRONES
The use of drones in national parks in Southern Africa is prohibited.

8. ACCOMMODATION NOTE:
Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.


Solo Travellers  

We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.


What to Take  

You will be on the move a lot and the small planes used have limited luggage storage, so please pack as lightly as possible to avoid issues. Your baggage should be clearly labelled and restricted to one small soft compact sports/duffel bag, or backpack, (no hard suitcases please) weighing no more than 15kg. plus a daypack. Luggage limits on airlines are strictly enforced and space on vehicles is limited.
Porters are not often available, so be prepared to carry your own bags. It is important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings, as well as a warm jacket for early morning wildlife safari drives. A set of smart casual clothes is also advisable.
Porters are not often available, so be prepared to carry your own bags. It is important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings, as well as a warm jacket for early morning wildlife safari drives. A set of smart casual clothes is also advisable.

The Southern Hemisphere essentially has the opposite weather to the Northern Hemisphere. The winter months of June, July and August, whilst clear and warm during the day (up to 25 degrees), can drop down to single figures and even below freezing at night. Between September and May it is considerably warmer with the time between October and March being the hottest, getting up to the high 30C and sometimes above. However it is always a dry heat and the temperature does drop at night. The wet season is between November and February, but this is not a bad time to go, as it generally does not rain for very long. We strongly recommend lots of layers to wear from the start of the day until the night. You might still need to wear a fleece jacket in the mornings, a t-shirt during the day and again the fleece jacket at sunset time. A woolen hat is also very much recommendable for the cold winter's early morning wildlife safari drives.

Please be advised that if you plan to bring a drone with you, the use of drones in national parks in Southern Africa is prohibited.


Minimum Age  

You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.


Group Leader  

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) for Kruger and Botswana, local CEO in Victoria Falls, local guides/rangers.


Meals  

Eating is a big part of travelling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available in South Africa. On this tour, we provide only a few meals for you and your group members, so as to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility in your choices. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though - while in the larger centres, your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip.

For the included meals, vegetarian meal requests and other dietary requirements need to be specified prior to arrival.


Money Exchange  

The official currency of Botswana is the Pula (BWP).

The official currency of South Africa is the South African Rand (ZAR).

The official currency of Zimbabwe is the US Dollar and South African Rand.

Each currency can be obtained locally by changing foreign currency or by using ATMs (where available) which will disperse local currency. Your CEO will inform you where you can change money throughout the tour and approximately how much money you will need.

For Zimbabwe, we strongly advise that you bring ZAR or USD from your home country or exchange money before the start of the tour, to avoid delays on tour, as it can be difficult to obtain cash at ATMs.

Please note that due to past problems with forgery, $US notes that are older than year 2006 are not accepted in Africa.
Large note ($US 50, $US 100 etc) can be difficult to change in some places, but will gain you the best exchange rate.

If you plan to buy your visas at borders, you will need to bring $USD cash to pay for these visas. Please note you cannot use the local currency or any other currency to buy these visas- they must be purchased in USD.

Please do not bring Travellers' cheques to Africa. They are difficult if not impossible to exchange in many places.

Visa/Plus system cards are the most widely accepted debit cards. it is harder to find machines Mastercard/Cirrus cards. We highly recommend that if you hold a Mastercard, you obtain a Visa card prior to departure and travel with both. This is also useful should something unforeseen happen to one of your cards during your travels.
While there are many ATMs in the major centres, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Africa. Check with your bank.

Credit cards can be used in major cities and towns ONLY but please do not rely on them as a method of payment because they are generally not widely accepted. You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies. The majority of our optional activities can also be paid by credit card. Your CEO will advise on these.

Please note that in many areas there may be occasional power-outages, where there will be no electricity for hours at a time. In addition, ATMs outside of larger centers often run out of cash or can be out of order unexpectedly. These factors could affect your ability to access money from ATMs. As such, please do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money.
A combination of foreign currency and debit/credit cards for cash advances is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.

As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com.


Group Leader Description  

On this tour, you will be accompanied by a G Adventures Chief Experience Officer (CEO) on the Kruger portion of the trip and in Botswana. In Victoria Falls, you will have a local CEO.

The Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will be the group manager and leader. All of our leaders in southern Africa are registered and licensed tourism guides, meaning they've studied to have a broad knowledge base of the region's history, cultures, and wildlife, and are legally certified to lead/guide tours in the regions visited. Most of our leaders in the region are from Southern Africa, though it may be possible that you'll have a leader from another country in the southern African region. As the group manager and leader, the aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places where we are travelling, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. He/she will take care of the small things so you can concentrate on enjoying your adventure. In addition, your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) is a skilled and experienced driver who has intimate knowledge of the vehicle and routes travelled. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting.


Transport  

Plane, air-conditioned touring vehicle, open safari vehicle, 4x4, walking, boat, mokoro.


About Accommodation  

Please remember that hotel/lodge/camp standards can be different from what you are used to in your home country, which is part of the appeal of adventure travel.

General notes:
-Please note that hot water shortages, low water pressure, and power outages can occur in Southern Africa. We appreciate your patience and understanding that these occurrences are outside of our control.
-Wifi is available in most places (extra charge may apply), but in remote areas, there can be service interruptions.
-A/C is not generally available in the accommodations we use, really it isn't needed as evenings tend to cool down. Floor or ceiling fans are usually available.
-Winter nights (June to September) can be cold, and most lodges and hotels do not have insulation or central heating. If you require additional blankets or a hot water bottle, these can be requested through your CEO or at the reception.


Tipping  

Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of your tour program. The gesture serves as an expression of appreciation for exceptional service, and amounts given are up to your discretion.

Tipping is one of the most direct ways that you can have a positive economic impact within the African community. Although it may not be customary for you, it is an important source of income for those in the tourism industry. Giving a tip should be a seen as a formal 'thank you', and the action should in no way be awkward.

The best method of tipping someone that has served the whole group is to plan in advance, and not rush when it comes to saying goodbye. A suggestion would be for each group member to contribute anonymously by putting their tip into an envelope. This often works the best and the group should gather to present the gift to the recipient(s), offering their thanks and showing their appreciation. This method brings the action out into the open, allowing for a friendly and appreciative interaction between the group and the recipient(s).

You may use the following as a guideline, all given in a per person format:

CEO: $7-10 USD (per day)
Driver: $5-8 USD (per day)

Local guides: $2-3 USD (per day)
Safari Guide/Driver: $2-3 USD (per day)

Restaurant Staff: 10-15% of cost of bill


Local Flights  

All internal flights are included in this trip.


Joining Instructions  

The nearest International airport to your joining hotel is the Johannesburg International Airport (JNB).

An arrival transfer is included when you arrive on Day 1, or if you arrive up to three days prior provided that you have booked your pre-accommodation through G Adventures in our joining hotel. Due to customer experience and quality considerations, all services related to the tour must be continuous.

Our driver will be waiting for you with a G Adventures sign with your name on it, and they will be waiting for you outside the luggage hall. There most likely will be many signs, so please check carefully for your name.

Please note that day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned on this day. Upon arrival to the city on day 1, please make your way to the joining hotel via your included transfer. Details on where to meet your transfer can be found in your voucher notes or on the G Adventures app.

Check-in time at your start hotel will be in the afternoon.

Once you arrive at the hotel, look for a note or bulletin board in the reception with a note from your CEO. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on day 1.

Your CEO will contact you at the hotel on Day 1 and make sure you are settled comfortably. If you arrive late, they will leave you a message detailing what time and where you should meet the next morning. Your CEO will organize a short meeting soon after arrival, during which you will meet other tour participants and receive information about general and specific aspects of the trip.


Itinerary Disclaimer  

While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.

Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.


Accommodation  

Hotels (6 nts), safari lodges/camps 7 nts), comfortable safari tent (2 nts), comfortable tent or chalets (2 nts).


Laundry  

Please note that you will be on the move a lot, and as such there will not be a lot of time for same-day laundry service. Please ask your guide/CEO to arrange if any laundry needs to be done, so that he / she can advise or make arrangements for you.


Packing List  

Cold weather:
• Long-sleeved shirts or sweater
• Scarf
• Warm gloves
• Warm hat
• Warm layers

Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
• Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)

Essentials:
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable)
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket

Health & Safety:
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
• Quick Covid Test/Antigen Test

Smart Dress:
• Smart outfit (For evenings out)

Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear

Note: Seasons in Southern Africa are quite extreme. Winters (May to October) can be really cold and summers will be really hot. It is important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings, as well as a warm jacket for early morning safari drives.


Trip Specific Safety  

GENERAL: Look after your personal items. Do not leave your valuables visible in a car or hotel room. Lock your hotel room door when you enter and when you leave. Do not carry large amount of cash on you. Avoid displaying flashy jewellery and carry your camera in its pack on your shoulder rather than around your neck. Keep your passport, airline tickets, money, important documents locked up in your room/safe - do not carry it with you.

Please note that the use of drones in national parks in Southern Africa is prohibited.

Parks and Reserves: Please ensure that your stay is happy and safe by taking note of a few simple warnings. You will be sharing your stay with many exciting and unusual creatures but without knowledge some of them could be dangerous: Example: Bats, Spiders, Snakes, Scorpions, Malaria Zone. If you must walk around at night please DO NOT DO SO WITHOUT A FLASHLIGHT. Remember: by feeding any wildlife, you are signing their death warrant as they become aggressive!

Theft, can be a problem in the bigger towns and cities. Don't walk around with things you can't do without, like your passport or airline tickets. Carry minimum amounts of cash and keep it hidden or in a money belt and if possible. This is less of a problem in the rural areas.


Travel Insurance  

Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. G Adventures can provide you with the appropriate coverage. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.


Dossier Disclaimer  

The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.

VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.


Joining Hotel  

For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.


Safety and Security  

Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it deemed necessary, due to safety concerns. Your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy and explore at your leisure. While your CEO will assist you with options available in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.

Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards), have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s).

Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk. Read more about travel safety for ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling.


A Couple of Rules  

Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers, in any capacity.


International Flights  

Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.


Group Size Notes  

Max 12, avg 10


Spending Money  

Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.


Optional Activities  

Victoria Falls
- Victoria Falls Helicopter Ride - 12-13min
- Victoria Falls Helicopter Ride - 25min
- Canoeing the Zambezi (160USD per person)
- Zambezi Bungee Jump (160USD per person)
- Zambezi River Sunset Cruise
- Full Day Excursion to Chobe National Park
- Victoria Falls Whitewater Rafting
- Victoria Falls Visit (30USD per person)
- Victoria Falls Guided Tour (53USD per person)

Livingstone
- Microlight Flight over Victoria Falls (175USD per person)

Victoria Falls
- Bridge Swing over the Zambezi (168USD per person)
- Zipline over the Zambezi (47USD per person)

Chobe National Park
- Evening Photo Safari on Chobe River


What's Included  

Your Foodie Moment: Traditional South Africa Braai (Barbecue), Johannesburg
Your Discover Moment: Victoria Falls. Arrival transfer. Panorama Route scenic drive. Private nature reserve wildlife safari drives in open vehicles. Open-vehicle wildlife safari drives in Kruger, Hwange and Chobe National Parks. Tour of Victoria Falls. Chobe boat safari. Wildlife excursions by boat and on foot in the Okavango Delta. Internal flights. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.


Highlights  

Feast on a traditional South African braai (barbecue) on your first night, Travel to Kruger National Park via the Panorama Route and stay in a tented camp near the park, Experience a full day safari and try to spot the “big five” in Kruger National Park, See the rushing waters of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, Learn about conservation efforts to rehabilitate and save the population of Painted Dogs in Hwange, Head out in an open safari vehicle into Zimbabwe's largest national park, Embark on a safari along the waters of the Chobe River, Visit the amazing Okavango Delta and learn about the Wilderness Project at a research camp, Spend a night in Maun listening to stories around the fire.


Meals Included  

17 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 15 dinners


Rooming and "My Own Room" Exceptions  

2 nights, Hwange NP.


Arrival Complications  

We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier and contact us as soon as possible. If you have a pre-booked transfer, and you have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.


Emergency Fund  

Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!


Health  

We recommend you contact your family physician, or your local travel clinic for the most up-to-date health information at least one month before departure. Travellers should also carry a basic first-aid kit and hand sanitizers/antibacterial wipes on their travels. Medical facilities are basic throughout these countries. For your own safety, we strongly recommend that you advise your tour leader of any medical condition that may affect you while travelling with the group. Your tour leader will be able to inform you of local health advisories (e.g. drinking water quality). Please ensure you have all the inoculations recommended by your doctor.

Day 1 Johannesburg

Arrive at any time. Transfer to hotel. Enjoy a traditional South African braai (barbecue) welcome dinner.

If you are interested in spending more time in Johannesburg, it is recommended to book pre-accommodation to enjoy the sights of the city at your own leisure.

Day 2 Johannesburg/Greater Kruger Area

Enjoy a scenic drive along the famed Panorama Route with stops at Blyde River Canyon, Bourke's Luck Potholes, and God's Window. Continue to our tented camp located near the Kruger National Park and this evening enjoy a delicious South African dinner in the boma.

Today is a very long driving day; however, we will make many stops along the way at sites along the Panorama Route.

Day 3 Kruger National Park

Enjoy a full-day wildlife safari drive through Kruger National Park in an open vehicle. Take in views of the abundant wildlife including elephants, lions, and giraffe. In the late afternoon, return to the lodge where you can relax on the deck with views of the surrounding area.

At over 19,000 sq km (7,500 sq mi), South Africa's Kruger National Park is one of the largest and most impressive animal reserves in the world. With 147 species, Kruger has more species of large mammals than any other park on the continent.

Day 4 Greater Kruger Area/Karongwe Private Game Reserve

Continue on to a private nature reserve in the Greater Kruger area. This afternoon, meet with a researcher from the Endangered Wildlife Trust's Cheetah Metapopulation Project who will share fascinating information about their efforts to protect cheetahs and other carnivores. After, the researcher will join us on our evening wildlife safari drive.

For the next two days, enjoy ranger-led morning and evening wildlife safari drives in an open safari vehicle in Karongwe Nature Reserve. Search for buffaloes, elephants, leopards, lions, and rhinos - Africa's famed Big Five. With over 9,000 hectares (22,240 acres) of supreme African bushveld, Karongwe Private Game Reserve is home to many creatures, and our safari drives provide several opportunities for wildlife viewing.

We use various accommodations within the reserve (the location is based on availability). During your time here, you will either stay in lodge rooms or very comfortable permanent tents (both of equal quality and with similar amenities).

Wildlife safari drives are conducted with qualified wildlife rangers and local expert trackers who will share their vast experience of the African bush.

On some occasions, if space is unavailable, we may need to change accommodations or even use a different private reserve. In such a case, be assured we will choose other lodges or comfort camps (of equal quality) within the Greater Kruger area.

Day 5 Karongwe Private Game Reserve

Enjoy early morning and afternoon safari drives with our local guides, searching for buffaloes, elephants, leopards, lions, and rhinos - Africa's famed "big five". In our down time, relax at the camp, take a walk around the grounds, or enjoy a cool drink on the deck.

Wake up before the sun (around 5am) and sip your morning coffee before heading out on a morning wildlife safari drive. Return to the lodge for a bite to eat and some leisure time. Converse on the deck, walk the grounds and gardens, and enjoy high tea. Following tea, it's time for a late afternoon safari drive.

Day 6 Karongwe Private Game Reserve/Johannesburg

After one last wildlife safari drive, head back to the city. In the evening, enjoy dinner at our local guest house.

Day 7 Johannesburg/Victoria Falls

Catch a flight to the town of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. Visit a nearby village and go grocery shopping in the bustling market. Then sit down with a local family for dinner, helping your hosts prepare a traditional Zimbabwean meal using the ingredients you picked out, and hear stories about local life and culture.

Local tribes used to call the falls Mosi-o-Tunya or “the smoke that thunders.” Explorer and missionary David Livingstone renamed the falls after Queen Victoria when he first saw them in 1855.

Day 8 Victoria Falls

Tour the magnificent Victoria Falls today, then opt for a scenic sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, soar above the falls in a helicopter, or take a day trip to Chobe National Park.

If you have an activity planned for this morning, we will reschedule your Falls tour for this afternoon, or tomorrow morning.

Day 9 Victoria Falls

Spend the day getting to know Victoria Falls with a variety of optional activities and adventures. Zip line over the Zambezi River, float down the river on a relaxing sunset cruise, or walk some of the surrounding paths and feel the spray of the fierce falls on your face.

The town of Victoria Falls is a great base to see both natural wonders and take part in some exciting activities. Get up close (and wet from the spray) while awing at the immense Victoria Falls, raft the whitewater of the mighty Zambezi, and for the more adventurous, bungee jump with Victoria Falls in view.

Today, new travellers may join you for the rest of your adventure. You are welcome to join them at a group meeting this evening, followed by an optional dinner.

Want to do more with your tour? Pre-book any two of the following activities: Zambezi Whitewater Rafting, Victoria Falls Helicopter Ride, or the Zambezi River Sunset Cruise.

Any optional activities listed on this day can also be booked upon arrival in Victoria Falls.

Day 10 Victoria Falls/Hwange National Park

The morning is yours to get to know Victoria Falls. Perhaps you'll choose to go on a guided tour of these magnificent falls and UNESCO World Heritage site. Afterwards, the group will travel to the headquarters of the Painted Dog Conservation where you'll listen to a talk about the efforts of this organization to protect and rehabilitate injured African wild dogs. Then enjoy a safari into Hwange National Park which happened to be an important elephant sanctuary in Zimbabwe and one of the largest wildlife reserves.

Learn about the life and hardships that the Painted Dog faces. This population of dogs lives in and around Hwange national park. There's an effort being made by a nonprofit organization to put an end to the poaching and harm done to these animals in the wild. The project's main goal is to release their rehabilitated animals back into their environment in the wild and to work with local communities in order to educate and change the behaviours surrounding poaching.

Road conditions in the region can range from good to very poor. As such, we slow our traveling speed in the rough spots and enjoy some sand and bumps - all part of the adventure of traveling in Africa.

Please note that hot water shortages, low water pressure and power outages can occur in Southern Africa. We appreciate your patience and understanding that these occurrences are outside of our control. Wifi is available in most places (extra charge may apply), but in remote areas there can be service interruptions. A/C is not generally available in the accommodations we use, really it isn't needed as evenings tend to cool down. Floor or ceiling fans are usually available.

Day 11 Hwange National Park

Enjoy a full-day safari through the grasslands of Hwange National Park. Spend time tracking elephant, buffalo herds, giraffes, lions, and zebras that call this place home. As the day comes to a close, take some time to unwind on the deck of the lodge and keep a lookout for more wild animals at the lodge's watering hole.

Day 12 Hwange/Chobe NP

Leave Hwange and its animals behind to travel north where the group will cross the border into Botswana to arrive in Kasane. Kasane happens to be known as the entryway of Chobe National Park. Relax into the lodge you'll be staying in before hopping on a boat safari along the Chobe River which winds through the park. Search for hippos and crocodiles hiding in the water, elephants taking a bath, and the variety of birdlife that call the banks of the river home. If you're lucky the sunset over the river from the boat's deck will be spectacular.

Keep an eye out for Chobe bushbuck and puku antelope, which are found only in this part of Botswana. The Chobe River is home to the world's largest elephant herds; buffalo, hippos, and lions can also be seen here.

Day 13 Chobe NP

There's always more to see in Chobe National Park which is why you'll head out on another safari this morning along the banks of the river. See how many different kinds of wildlife you can spot before finishing back at the lodge. For the rest of the day you can choose to relax or embark on another river safari, but this time on a specialized photography boat.

Opt into the photo wildlife safari on the Chobe River at sunset; you'll be accompanied by an expert wildlife photographer and guide who will help you get the perfect shot.

Day 14 Kasane/Okavango Delta

Hop on a short flight to the heart of the Okavango Delta. You'll be transported to the remote camp by mokoro (dugout canoe). As you glide through the waterways search for the area's wildlife, then take some time to relax and get settled at the camp. Enjoy some lunch before embarking on a wildlife cruise through the delta. In the evening have a sundowner on the deck back at camp before a dinner beneath the stars.

Please note that the Okavango Wilderness Project talk may be moved to the day that the group arrives in Maun due to the availability of lecturers within the region.

Planes used to fly into the Delta are small and weight restrictions are mandatory. For this reason luggage restrictions are 15kg per person for checked in luggage and 5kg for Hand luggage for a maximum of 20kg per person. As well, the airline requires the weight of each passenger, your CEO will collect this information from you privately, at the beginning of the trip.

Day 15 Okavango Delta

Today the group will set out into the Okavango Delta with expert local guides. Spot wildlife the mokoro navigates the channels of the river. In the evening relax and explore the bush camp before enjoying a three-course meal around the campfire as you listen to the sounds of the delta.

Tonight, the group will stay at Moremi Crossing accommodation, which features en suite meru tents, running hot and cold water, full beds, linens and a towel. Each tent is on its own deck dotted along the fringe of the island. Some are tucked away amongst the pristine riverine ecosystem filled with wildlife. There are animal sightings from the decking area on a regular basis.

Day 16 Okavango Delta

The group will go on two wildlife excursions today in the afternoon and morning on foot, boat, or by jeep. In between take advantage of free time to swim, relax on the deck, or enjoy other camp amenities.

Chief's Island is a large area and the animals are free to move as they choose - and they do! During your guided walk there's a chance you'll see: lion, elephant, giraffe, zebra, impala, kudu and hippo as well as a plethora of birdlife - particularly when the migratory species return to us between October and March. There is a huge difference to being on foot rather than in a vehicle for such encounters!

Day 17 Okavango Delta/Maun

Enjoy an early morning wildlife excursion and then board a short flight to Maun. Once there you will learn about the Okavango Wilderness Project. The group will watch the documentary, "Into the Okavango" and learn more about delta conservation projects in the area. In the evening experience a storytelling session given by celebrated local author Bonty Botumile. Her work is preserving Botswana's literary heritage while providing youth with employment opportunities in the arts. Cap off the night with a meal of traditional foods around a warm fire.

Please note that today you will be served a brunch between 10-11 before boarding your flight to Maun.

Day 18 Maun

Depart at any time.

Details

Duration: 18 Days

Service Level: Upgraded

Physical Grading: 2 - Light

Travel Style: Classic

Trip Type: Small Group



Call Us: 01 2311889



TRAVEL AWARE - STAYING SAFE AND HEALTHY ABROAD

The Department of Foreign Affairs has up-to-date advice for Irish citizens on staying safe and healthy abroad. For more security, local laws, health, passport and visa information see https://www.dfa.ie/travel/travel-advice/ and follow dfatravelwise