Signature: Kruger, Victoria Falls & Botswana's Untamed Wonders Adventure Tour

Feel the rhythm of Johannesburg's urban rebirth before tracking the legendary Big Five through the golden grasslands of Kruger National Park. Stand enveloped in the thundering mist of Victoria Falls, sweep across the vast salt crust of the Makgadikgadi Pans, and glide past hippos in the Okavango Delta on an ultimate Southern African expedition.

Is there a travel disclaimer for my itinerary I should review before booking this trip?  

This compiled itinerary represents our thoughtfully designed plan, provided in good faith and correct at the time of publication. However, to ensure we deliver the most rewarding experience possible, our itineraries remain dynamic; we continuously refine our routes based on research, field insights, and guest feedback, meaning details may evolve between the release of our annual directory and your departure. Flexibility is a cornerstone of our travel philosophy, and while we intend to follow the path described, the nature of exploring unpredictable environments means alterations may occur, and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife encounters cannot be guaranteed. We invite you to view these travel times and details as an approximate guide rather than a strict contract, and we kindly ask that you review a final copy of your Trip Details a few days prior to departure to ensure you have the most current information for your upcoming expedition.

What are the modes of transportation on my trip?  

Private vehicle, 4x4 safari vehicle, boat, plane, mokoro, walking

Is there an extra cost for travelling solo?  

Yes, for those travelling solo there is a single supplement

What is the maximum number of travellers on this tour?  

22

What are the mandatory travel insurance requirements for this trip?  

Comprehensive travel insurance is a mandatory prerequisite for participation in all our departures. To safeguard your well-being, your National Geographic Expedition Leader will kindly request to verify your physical policy details before you may officially join your fellow travellers.

When choosing your coverage, please ensure your policy includes full medical protection, featuring a strict minimum requirement of $200,000 USD for emergency rescue and medical repatriation. For complete peace of mind while exploring, we also strongly advise securing comprehensive coverage for personal liability, trip cancellation or curtailment, and the loss of luggage and personal belongings. If you intend to rely on insurance provided through your credit card, you must supply formal proof of purchase-such as a credit card statement or receipt in your name-along with explicit confirmation from your banking institution regarding the participating insurer, exact policy limits, and their dedicated 24-hour emergency contact number.

What important notes should I be aware of before the trip?  

1. TRAVEL DAYS
While this expedition is not physically demanding, it involves traversing vast and diverse landscapes to reach Southern Africa's premier wildlife destinations. Some travel days include extended drives where road conditions may vary. These journeys are conducted in premium, air-conditioned vehicles designed for comfort, offering a unique opportunity to witness the changing scenery of the region.

2. YELLOW FEVER: COUNTRY DETAIL
There is no risk of Yellow Fever transmission in Botswana, Kenya, Malawi, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, or Zimbabwe. However, all of these countries require proof of vaccination under International Health Regulations to prevent importation of the virus. It is compulsory to show a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate if you are travelling to any of the above countries from a Yellow Fever endemic country, or have recently transited through one (12 hours or more in airport). Endemic countries include: Angola, Benin, Bolivia, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Colombia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Congo, Côte d'Ivoire, Ecuador, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, French Guiana, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Guyana, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Rwanda, São Tomé and Príncipe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Suriname, Tanzania, Togo, Trinidad and Tobago, Uganda, Venezuela.

We advise all travellers on Southern and East Africa itineraries to carry a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate regardless of their country of origin. Given the multi-country nature of these itineraries, travellers will cross borders into countries that require the certificate as a condition of entry from preceding destinations. A traveller entering the itinerary from a non-endemic country may not require the certificate to enter the first country, but will almost certainly require it by the time they cross into a subsequent one. Yellow Fever vaccinations must be administered at least 10 days prior to entry into the first country visited. Under WHO regulations (effective 11 July 2016), certificates are valid for the lifetime of the person vaccinated, there is no 10-year expiry on the certificate itself, though some border officials may be unaware of this. Travellers should carry their original International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (yellow card) at all times during the tour. Travellers without a valid certificate run the risk of being denied entry and will not be able to continue with the tour. Any additional travel expenses incurred will be at the traveller's own account.

3. COMBO TRIP
Please note that this trip is a combination of multiple G Adventures tours (Cape Town, Kruger). As such, the staff and/or particular vehicles operating your tour may change between tour segments. You may also expect some group members to join or leave the tour, between tour segments.

4. 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.

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

Are local flights included in the cost of the trip?  

Local flights are included in this tour. Please note, there is a 20 kg weight limit for checked luggage and 7 kg for carry-on. The fee for additional weight or baggage is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

What are the packing guidelines and luggage restrictions?  

When deciding what to pack, considerations will vary based on your specific itinerary, the regions you are visiting, and the season in which you are travelling. Generally speaking, we recommend packing thoughtfully and keeping your luggage to one checked bag at a manageable weight to facilitate seamless transitions throughout your expedition.

In addition to your primary luggage, you will also require a small day pack or shoulder bag. This smaller bag is essential for keeping your camera, water, and personal items close at hand during day walks, excursions, and daily explorations.

What should I pack for this trip?  

Cold Weather:
• Long-sleeved shirts or sweater
• Scarf
• Warm gloves
• Warm hat
• Warm layers
• Warm waterproof jacket

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:
• Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)
• 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
• Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)
• 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
• Swimwear
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket

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

Safari:
• Lightweight, breathable clothing (required) (Neutral tones, like khaki, olive, and tan are recommended. Avoid bright colours and camouflage patterns.)
• Evening attire ("Smart casual" for dinners at the lodges (e.g., linen trousers, sundresses, or collared shirts))
• Layers (Early morning game drives can be quite cold, even in summer. Bring a high-quality fleece or windproof jacket.)

Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sturdy water shoes/sandals
• 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 wildlife safari drives.

What meals are included in this trip?  

16 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 16 dinners

What details should I be aware of when planning my departure day?  

You will be met at your hotel property and transferred to the airport for your onward travels at the end of your expedition. Please refer to your individual itinerary for more details.

What are the tipping guidelines for this trip?  

To ensure a seamless and elevated experience throughout your National Geographic Signature departure, gratuities have been fully taken care of for all included meals, activities, and luggage porterage.

On our National Geographic Signature tours, tipping is included for all included activities and meals, and porterage. Tipping is not included for the Expedition Leader. Should you want some basic guidelines on tipping for the activities you do on your own, please see below. At the end of each trip if you felt your National Geographic Signature Expedition Leader did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline would be $10-$15 per person per day. Tipping is neither required nor expected for your National Geographic Expedition Expert.

For the independent moments on your itinerary, tipping is generally not expected across Central Asia. However, should you wish to reward exceptional service during independent dining or activities, a modest gratuity of 3-5% is entirely appropriate and warmly received by local community members.

What are the age restrictions for this trip?  

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.

Are international flights included in this trip?  

No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour.

However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details.

In addition, 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.

What are the joining instructions?  

To review the specific details of your starting property, please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or To review the specific details of your starting property, please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.

A seamless arrival transfer is included for guests landing on the first day of the itinerary, or up to three days prior if your pre-trip accommodations were arranged directly through G Adventures at our starting property. To maintain the exceptional quality and continuity of your experience, all scheduled services must run consecutively.

Upon arriving at the starting property, where check-in begins typically by 3:00PM, please look for a dedicated notice from your National Geographic Expedition Leader at the reception desk. This message will outline the specific details for our evening welcome reception and meeting-typically held between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.-where you will gather with your Expedition Leader, Expedition Expert, and fellow travellers to look ahead at the days to come. Should you arrive later in the evening and miss this initial gathering, your Expedition Leader will leave a comprehensive briefing note for you at reception detailing the next morning's schedule.

Please note that the joining day of the itinerary can vary, please refer to your specific itinerary for further details.

What activities are optional on this trip?  

No optional activities

What is the maximum and typical number of participants on this tour?  

Max 22, avg. 16.

Are there any health considerations I should know before travelling?  

Please note that health requirements and recommended inoculations vary by destination. To ensure your well-being, it is your responsibility to consult with a specialized travel physician for up-to-date medical guidance well before departure.

We highly recommend carrying a personal first aid kit, hand sanitizer, and any essential prescription medications. Because our itineraries frequently trace paths through remote regions far from advanced medical facilities, legal regulations prohibit our National Geographic Expedition Leaders from administering any medication, including standard over-the-counter pain relievers. While local pharmacies along our route may stock familiar remedies, they are often produced under regional names, so we advise bringing the generic chemical name of any critical prescription. Before finalising your plans, please carefully review the itinerary and physical requirements to ensure your personal fitness aligns with our style of exploration. To safeguard the well-being of the group, we reserve the right to excuse any traveller from all or part of an itinerary if, in the professional judgment of our Expedition Leader, continuing would pose an undue risk to themselves or their fellow travellers.
 
Yellow Fever Certificate Note (Updated: June 2026)

It is compulsory to show a valid Yellow Fever Certificate if you are travelling to the following G Adventures-visited countries from a Yellow Fever endemic country, or if you have transited for more than 12 hours through the airport of a Yellow Fever endemic country:
Botswana
Kenya*
Malawi
Namibia
South Africa
Tanzania
Uganda*
Zambia
Zimbabwe

*Kenya and Uganda require a valid Yellow Fever Certificate from all travellers regardless of country of origin, not only those arriving from endemic countries. Travellers to these destinations should ensure they are vaccinated regardless of their travel history. If other non-endemic countries have been visited after visiting an endemic country, a Yellow Fever certificate may still be required on entry into subsequent destinations. This is particularly relevant on multi-country Southern Africa itineraries, for example, a traveller moving from Uganda to Kenya, or from Kenya across a land border into Tanzania, will be required to show their certificate at each entry point. Please check country-specific regulations before departure.

 
Malaria
Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease that is present in some regions in Africa. Risk of malaria can increase during periods of heavy rain, during the rainy seasons, and in densely populated areas of Southern & East Africa. To prevent malaria, we recommend speaking to your doctor about taking preventative medication (prophylaxis), combined with regular use of insect repellent spray/cream. Please check updated travel health advisories specific to malaria before your departure.

Are there any specific safety considerations for this itinerary?  

For peace of mind while on the move, we strongly advise using a concealed neck wallet or money belt to secure your passport, travel documentation, and currency. We suggest leaving exceptional jewelry at home, as it is unnecessary for our style of travel; instead, make use of the safety deposit boxes available at most of our accommodations. Securing your luggage with a reliable lock is also highly recommended.

What are the mandatory group rules regarding laws and behaviour?  

Our philosophy of travel is rooted in deep respect for the people, cultures, and lands we encounter. To ensure the safety of our travellers, staff, and the communities that welcome us, the possession or use of illegal drugs is strictly prohibited on all departures. While certain substances may be woven into local traditions in some regions, they are not permitted within our groups. Furthermore, any form of exploitation, including the solicitation of sex workers, directly contradicts our values. To protect the integrity of the experience and the well-being of the group, our National Geographic Expedition Leader retains the right to remove any traveller who violates these standards.

How will we travel between destinations?  

Across the vast, sun-baked savannas of Africa, the line between a rugged journey and a front-row seat to the natural world depends entirely on your vessel. For this expedition, the terrain is traversed in custom-engineered, private 7-seat 4x4 safari vehicles. Outfitted with expansive sliding windows and a signature large pop-up roof, these mechanical beasts are meticulously designed to optimize wildlife viewing. To ensure both comfort and an intimate connection with the landscape, occupancy is strictly capped at six explorers per vehicle, with larger expeditions utilizing a convoy of up to three vehicles.

The African interior is a study in elemental extremes. The tracks beneath our wheels span the entire spectrum of terrain, from newly paved stretches to deeply rutted, bone-rattling pathways. During the scorching dry seasons, these trails transform into ribbons of dust. Yet, this traditional style of overland travel remains unrivaled. The vehicles offer a vital sanctuary of comfortable seating, while the autonomy of a private fleet grants us the invaluable luxury of spontaneity-allowing the expedition to halt at a moment's notice to witness a crouching lioness lock eyes with her prey.

In these remote regions, safety dictates our pace. All vehicles are outfitted with speed governors locked at a conservative 80 km/h, ensuring a controlled transit through unpredictable environments. For your personal protection against the sudden jolts of the terrain, seat belts must be worn at all times while the vehicle is in motion. Our vehicles are maintained to the highest standards, and in the unlikely event of a technical issue, our expert drivers are equipped to resolve it efficiently.

Who will be leading the group?  

National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert throughout.

What should I do if I can't find my airport transfer or experience arrival issues?  

While we anticipate a seamless arrival, your peace of mind is our utmost priority. Should any unforeseen circumstances prevent you from beginning your expedition as scheduled, please refer to the essential emergency contact details provided in your documentation and contact us as soon as possible.

Upon landing, if you do not connect with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend making your own way to the starting point property by following the Joining Instructions. Rest assured, you may submit a request to your travel professional upon your return to secure a refund for any transport costs incurred during this time.

Where can I do my laundry on this trip?  

Laundry services are available during your journey. Please consult your Expedition Leader for assistance with making these arrangements during your stay.

Where will we stay during the trip?  

Hotel (6 nt), Safari Lodges (10 nts).

Who do I contact for arrival issues or in the event of an emergency?  

Should you require urgent assistance during your travels, your first point of contact should be our local representative or regional office. If your call is not answered immediately, please leave a detailed message with your contact information so our team can return your call and assist you as quickly as possible. The numbers can be found below.

EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS
G Adventures Local Representative (South Africa)
From outside South Africa: +27 713823286
From within South Africa: 071 3823286

In addition, a dedicated toll-free line is available for guests within North America, connecting you directly to our global operations team during regular business hours. For support outside of standard hours, an emergency mobile line is actively monitored day and night to ensure you are never out of reach. In the rare event that your call is not answered immediately, please leave a detailed message along with your contact information so our team can return your call and assist you as swiftly as possible.

Toll-free (North America only): 1-800-465-5600

From the United Kingdom: 0870 080 1756

International (Outside North America and the UK): +1 416 260 0999

Emergency Mobile: (416) 305-6139

Your included arrival transfer has been meticulously arranged based on the flight details you provided. If you experience a flight schedule change or cancellation within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival, please contact our emergency number immediately with your updated details. Prompt notification ensures we can adjust your transfer; otherwise, you will need to arrange your own transportation to the starting property. Upon arrival, if your transfer representative does not connect with you within 30 minutes of exiting the arrivals area, please take a local taxi directly to the starting property.

What is the role of the group leader during this trip?  

Every National Geographic Signature departure is accompanied throughout by a dedicated National Geographic Expedition Leader, whose purpose is to ensure a seamless experience so you can fully immerse yourself in the destination. Your Expedition Leader offers deep insight into the landscapes you traverse, suggests enriching independent activities, recommends exceptional local dining venues, and connects you with our community friends along the way. Rather than acting as conventional guides, they possess a broad, sophisticated understanding of the historical, cultural, religious, and social tapestry of the region. To offer the ultimate perspective, we complement their expertise with specialist local guides whose deep regional knowledge adds profound depth to specific sites-delivering a masterfully balanced exploration.

What should I consider when planning my personal expenses and discretionary spending for this itinerary?  

While personal spending habits naturally vary, we recommend factoring in your individual preferences for shopping, tipping, and beverages to ensure a seamless experience. In addition to these day-to-day comforts, we kindly ask that you maintain access to a minimum of USD $200 (or its equivalent) as a dedicated emergency fund; though exceptionally rare, unpredictable circumstances such as changing weather patterns or natural events may occasionally necessitate a shift from our planned route, and this reserve ensures we can navigate any path ahead with peace of mind.

How can I share feedback about my trip experience?  

Upon your return, we invite you to share your insights with us. Your valued feedback shapes the future of our itineraries and ensures we continue to deliver meaningful experiences. As a token of our appreciation for your time, we are pleased to offer a 5% savings (up to a maximum of $100 USD) toward your next expedition with us. Simply submit your evaluation within four weeks of completing your travels to unlock this benefit and join our global community of returning travellers.

*This offer is valid for new bookings only, limited to one per person, and cannot be combined with other promotions or applied to independent itineraries. Maximum value of $100 USD (or local currency equivalent). This program may be amended or withdrawn at any time.

What's Included  

Your G for Good Moment: Shabalala Interpretation of Culture Centre Visit, Hazyview
Your G for Good Moment: Lusumpuko Women's Club Lunch, Victoria Falls
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group, Johannesburg
Signature Moment: Private Tour & Talk at the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Johannesburg
Signature Moment: Private Zambezi River Dinner Cruise, Victoria Falls
Signature Moment: Photo Safari Cruise on the Chobe River, Chobe National Park
Signature Moment: Living with Elephants, Makgadikgadi Pans. Arrival transfer. Welcome dinner. Internal flight from Johannesburg to Hoedspruit. Afternoon safari drive with an Endangered Wildlife Trust conservationist in the Greater Kruger Area. Morning and afternoon safari drives in the Thornybush Private Game Reserve. Kruger National Park Safari Drives. Internal between Kruger and Victoria Falls. Attend the Simunye Theatre Show and meet the cast. Private, guided tour of Victoria Falls. Talk given by the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust. Chobe National Park Safari Drives. Internal Flight from Kasane to Maun. Meet with a researcher from the Nkashi Trust team which implements the National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project. Internal flight from Maun to the Makgadikgadi Pans. Morning and afternoon wildlife safari drives in Makgadikgadi Pans over multiple days. Internal flight from the Makgadikgadi Pans to the Okavango Delta. Morning and afternoon wildlife safaris by motorboat and traditional mokoro in the Okavango Delta over multiple days. Farewell Dinner. Departure Transfer. Engaging Discussions with the National Geographic Expert Throughout. Porterage at hotels and when getting on and off of vehicles. Tips are included for all activities, meals and porterage, except for your Expedition Leader. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

What are the main highlights of this trip?  

Gain a deeper understanding of the ripple effects spanning from Mandela's life and legacy, Set out on safari drives through Kruger in pursuit of the legendary Big Five, Capture wildlife up close on the Chobe River with guidance from an expert photographer, Stand at the edge of The Smoke That Thunders - Victoria Falls in all its elemental force, Meet a National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project researcher for a talk on this vibrant delta, Join a wildlife biologist at a research centre for a private presentation on human-elephant coexistence, Witness the abundant wildlife in the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, Spot birds and animals from a traditional mokoro canoe and motorized boat.