SMALL GROUP LODGE SAFARI: Travel from Zimbabwe's spectacular Victoria Falls to Cape Town - South Africa's captivating Mother City, taking in the best of Botswana and Namibia en route. Traverse the Kalahari and Namib deserts and game drive through Chobe, Etosha and Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. Marvel at the magnificent Sossusvlei dunes, ride a mokoro in the Okavango Delta and more on this 20-day overland adventure with comfortable lodge accommodation.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Victoria Falls
Upon arrival at Victoria Falls Airport you will be met and transferred to our start hotel. At 3pm there is a pre departure meeting in the hotel foyer. The rest of the day is free for you to independently explore. Be sure to allow enough time to visit the spectacular Victoria Falls which are without doubt one of the most spectacular sights in Africa!
Victoria Falls is a charming town and there's a whole host of exciting activities available to book locally, from scenic helicopter flights over the falls and bungee jumping, to white water rafting and sunset cruises. Pre tour accommodation is available on request if you would like to spend longer here.
Overnight: Victoria Falls | Breakfast
Chobe National Park
Victoria Falls - Chobe River (Botswana). The morning of day 2 is free for you to browse the local markets or enjoy some of the optional activities on offer at Victoria Falls. In the afternoon we cross the border into Botswana and overnight on the banks of the Chobe River. Chobe is famous for its beautiful scenery, magnificent sunsets and abundance of wildlife and birdlife. The following day we enjoy a morning game drive in Chobe National Park and a sunset game-viewing cruise on the Chobe River. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and other animals coming to the river's edge to drink.
Overnight: Chobe River (2) | Breakfast x 2, Dinner x 2
Okavango Delta
Chobe River - Okavango Delta. On day 4 we drive through Chobe National Park before entering Namibia and travelling to the eastern side of the Caprivi, a narrow stretch of Namibian territory between Botswana and Angola. Crossing back into Botswana we then continue on to our lodge on the edge of the lush Okavango Delta.
The following day we travel by boat into the delta with its picturesque maze of waterways and sprawling grassy plains. We explore this incredible inland delta on a mokoro (traditional canoe) excursion and guided game walks on the smaller islands (water levels permitting).
Overnight: Okavango Delta (2) | Breakfast x 2, Lunch x 1, Dinner x 2
The Okavango River
Okavango Delta - Rundu (Namibia). Departing the Delta we cross back into Namibia and continue through the Caprivi Strip, stopping to spend the night at a lodge set amongst lush vegetation overlooking the Okavango River and Angola. This afternoon there's an optional boat cruise on the river (book and pay locally) or you can simply relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
Overnight: Rundu | Breakfast, Dinner
Etosha National Park
Rundu - Etosha National Park. On day 7 we proceed to Etosha National Park where we enjoy our first game drive in the park in our overland vehicle. This park is one of the most important reserves and game sanctuaries in Africa with thousands of wild animals such as blue wildebeest, springbok, zebra, kudu, giraffe, cheetah, leopard, lion and elephant making this area their home. Day 8 we enjoy a full day game drive in open 4x4 vehicles from our lodge located just outside the park entrance.
Overnight: Etosha National Park | Breakfast x 2, Dinner x 2
Damaraland
Etosha National Park - Damaraland. We travel on to Damaraland today, one of the most scenic areas of Namibia, dominated by prehistoric water courses with open plains and grassland, massive granite koppies and deep gorges. Our lodge is located on top of a mountain with spectacular views of the surrounding area. Spend the afternoon taking in the incredible setting or simply relaxing by the pool.
Overnight: Damaraland | Breakfast, Dinner
Swakopmund
Damaraland - Swakopmund. We travel south today, through the beautiful Damaraland region with its mountain ranges, dry valleys and rugged terrain. We arrive into Swakopmund and spend the afternoon exploring this charming German colonial town.
Overnight: Swakopmund | Breakfast
Sossusvlei & Sesriem
Our journey on day 11 takes us further south through ever-changing scenery to our accommodation located on the edge of the Namib Desert. Our lodge here is just a few kilometers from the mighty dunes of Sossusvlei. The following morning we head into the desert to appreciate the beauty of the dunes, which are the highest in the world. Enjoy a leisurely 5km walk to Sossusvlei and Deadvlei, and a hike through the staggering Sesriem Canyon. Springbok, oryx and ostrich are some of the hardy species you may be able to spot living out in the desert.
Overnight: Sesriem (2) | Breakfast x 2, Dinner x 2
Fish River Canyon
Sesriem - Fish River Canyon. Leaving Sesriem this morning we continue our journey south through ever changing scenery to our lodge which is set in an incredibly scenic area. Late afternoon we visit the famous Fish River Canyon which is the second largest canyon in the world. At its deepest point this spectacular canyon is 549 meters deep.
Overnight: Fish River Canyon | Breakfast, Dinner
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
Fish River Canyon - Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park (South Africa). On day 14 we travel into the heart of the Kalahari and the magnificent Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park in South Africa. This vast reserve covers over 3.6 million hectares and is home to the famous black mane lion. Here we enjoy morning and afternoon game drives and the sparse vegetation is ideal for spotting wildlife, particularly predators including the famous Kalahari lions, notable for the impressive black-maned males.
Overnight: Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park (2) | Breakfast x 2, Dinner x 2
Augrabies Falls National Park
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park - Augrabies Falls National Park. We head south to the beautiful Augrabies Falls National Park today, passing an abundance of lush wine farms en route. Reaching the national park we spend the afternoon admiring the spectacular Augrabies Falls from various viewpoints. At these thundering falls, known locally ‘Aukoerebis’ or ‘place of great noise’, the mighty Orange River plummets 56m into the gorge.
Overnight: Augrabies Falls National Park | Breakfast
Namaqualand
Augrabies Falls National Park - Namaqualand. Today we travel through the beautiful Namaqualand region, which is truly spectacular between August and October when there's an explosion of colorful wild flowers. We spend the night at a guesthouse which is located the foot of the Van Ryns Pass. At the guesthouse there's the opportunity to partake in a wine tasting session where you can sample the local wines of the area (pay locally).
Overnight: Namaqualand | Breakfast, Dinner
Cape Town & the Cape Peninsula
Namaqualand - Cape Town. Travelling via the spectacular Van Ryns Pass we arrive in Cape Town mid afternoon on day 18. Set against the majestic Table Mountain, Cape Town is a captivating city which offers plenty of scenic, historic and cultural attractions. The remains of the day is free to explore Cape Town's bustling Waterfront which has a wonderful range of shops, restaurants and bars.
The following morning we set out on a full day tour of the beautiful Cape Peninsula. Driving along the Atlantic seaboard via Hout Bay and Chapman’s Peak, we take in Table Mountain National Park and Cape Point before returning along the Indian Ocean coastline back to our hotel. A morning or afternoon cable car ascent up iconic Table Mountain is included (weather dependent).
Overnight: Cape Town (2) | Breakfast x 2
Cape Town
Today our overland adventure comes to an end after breakfast and hotel check out.
Please Note: In 2023 a departure transfer to Cape Town Airport will be included. In 2022 it can be booked upon request for a supplement. We can also book post tour accommodation upon request.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
Departure dates marked with a 'G' are guaranteed to operate. All other departure are guaranteed with a minimum of 4 persons. This safari has a maximum group size of 16. The 'Twin Share' price is per person when there are 2 people sharing a room. The 'Single Room' price is applicable to all solo travellers, or if your booking party cannot reach the minimum of 2 persons in a room. Single Rooms can also be booked by any other person wanting the comfort and privacy of their own room.
Local payment - ZAR 3600, to be paid in cash
Please note that this is payable locally on day 1 of your trip in the currency specified.
Extra Prices
Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Cresta Sprayview Hotel, Victoria Falls
Located just 1.4km from Victoria Falls, you're able to see the spray from the hotel when the falls are in full flood. Rooms are comfortable, boasting queen-sized beds, ensuite bathrooms, a safe and climate control. Wi-Fi is available in all areas of the hotel, including outside on the sun terrace. There's a buffet breakfast at the onsite restaurant, and you can also enjoy meals outside by the pool, and enjoy a drink at either of the two bars.
Chobe Safari Lodge, Chobe National Park
Situated on the banks of the Chobe River in Kasane, Chobe Safari Lodge is is ideally located for exploring Chobe National Park. Rooms are spacious, with excellent facilities and private balconies. The restaurant serves a tasty selection of African and international cuisine, while the bar is a perfect place to relax with a cocktail in hand as the sun sets. The hotel also has an attractive sundeck and swimming pool overlooking the river. Keep a look out for warthogs scurrying around the grounds!
Swamp Stop Okavango River Camp, Okavango Delta
Located on the banks of the Okavango River, the Swamp Stop River Camp features 12 simply furnished, en-suite rooms, complete with air conditioning, a fridge and a verandah. The property has a fully licensed bar and two small swimming pools for a refreshing dip after a day of sightseeing. There's also raised bird viewing deck where guests can glimpse abundant birdlife and may even spot the odd elephant or crocodile. Free Wi-F is available in communal areas.
Hakusembe River Lodge, Zambezi Region (Caprivi Strip)
Comprising several individual bungalows, the Hakusembe River Lodge is a delightful property that sits on the banks of the river which marks the border between Namibia and Angola. Each of the rooms fuses contemporary design with traditional African decor, providing a stylish and comfortable living space for guests. The lodge has an outdoor pool, nestled within its lush gardens, a gift shop and a restaurant. When not busy on safari, guests can indulge in a stroll through the surrounding jungle or a spot of fishing.
Etosha Village, Etosha National Park
Located on the outskirts of Etosha National Park, Etosha Village makes the perfect base for exploring Namibia's wild side. 55 individual chalets each feature air conditioning, ensuite bathrooms, and an outdoor patio and seating area where guests can listen to the sounds of the bush in the evening. There are 3 separate restaurants, a bar with large-screen TV, outdoor fireplace, onsite shop, and 2 swimming pools (one for children). The entire site is surrounded by lush mopane forest and guided walks and game drives into the nearby reserve can be arranged.
Ugab Terrace Lodge, Damaraland
Perched on a hill-top overlooking the stunning scenery of Damaraland, Ugab Terrace Lodge boasts 16 private chalets, sleeping two people each. All chalets feature twin beds, a shower, a toilet, and a balcony for making the most of the view. Ceilings are made from traditional wood for an authentic look, and ceiling fans keep the occupant cool during the day. There's also a splash pool, communal lounge, and onsite restaurant. The lodge is also home to the 15th longest zipline in the world, for those who want to get the adrenaline pumping during their stay!
The Delight, Swakopmund
Less than a 10-minute walk from the beach, The Delight is a bright and modern property in the heart of Swakopmund. Rooms are modern, spacious, air-conditioned, and include flat-screen TVs, coffee machines, and ensuite bathrooms. Some rooms also include balconies. There's an onsite restaurant serving a delicious daily breakfast, bar and Wi-Fi is available for a nominal fee.
Desert Quiver Camp, Sesriem
Located just 5km from the gate of Sossusvlei, the uniquely designed chalets of Desert Quiver Camp are an excellent place to base yourself. Each chalet has a beautiful sloping roof, designed to blend in with the local area. And inside, the comfortable air-conditioned chalets house twin beds, ensuite bathrooms, a safe, and storage. Each self-catered unit also has its own patio with BBQ facilities and a kitchenette. The two communal bomas are a great place to enjoy a meal with the group, and there's also a well-stocked bar with a TV and a swimming pool. Fresh ingredients for cooking can be ordered daily, or if you book in advance then the nearby Sossusvlei Lodge will cook for you!
Canyon Village, Fish River Canyon
Secluded and exclusive, the Canyon Village in the famous Fish River Canyon is the perfect getaway for those seeking some peace and quiet among some of the most spectacular scenery on the planet. The village consists of a number of bungalows, which are spacious, comfortable and homely, making them excellent bases for exploring the surrounding area. There are plenty of walking and hiking trails in the area that allow travellers to witness the canyon in all its glory and an outdoor pool in which you can soak your aching muscles after your adventure.
Kgalagadi Lodge, Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
Just 5km outside the wildlife paradise that is Kgalagadi National Transfrontier Park, this lodge offers convenient, fresh and modern chalets for guests looking to explore. Chalets boast queen-sized beds, ensuite bathrooms and an outdoor kitchen and dining area, perfect for enjoying the sunrise, or for watching the wildebeest and other animals which routinely stroll through the area. Air-conditioning is standard in the chalets and there's also a communal swimming pool, and the onsite restaurant makes fresh bread daily and has its own onsite butchery.
Kakamas Hotel, Augrabies Falls National Park
Surrounded by lush green vineyards, Kakamas Hotel is located in the small town of Kakamas near the Orange River, and just outside the Augrabies Falls National Park. Each ensuite room is bright and clean, with outside patio areas for relaxing in the evening. All rooms have air-conditioning and tea and coffee-making facilities. Breakfast is served buffet style and there's an onsite coffee shop, grill, and a la carte restaurant and cocktail lounge called Vergelegen. There's also an outdoor swimming pool, with free Wi-fi available in rooms and communal areas.
Highlanders Lodge & Campsite, Namaqualand
Offering 12 luxury lodges with ensuite bathrooms and air-conditioning, Highlanders Lodge and Campsite is located in the heart of the beautiful Namaqualand wine-producing region of South Africa. Onsite food is locally sourced and there's a well-stocked wine bar next to the outdoor swimming pool. If travelling in winter you'll be glad of the fireplace and pool table. In better weather wine tasting and activities such as mountain biking or wild river swimming are possible.
Protea Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Waterfront Breakwater Lodge, Cape Town
Set in a restored 19th-century prison, the unique Protea by Marriott is now a modern hotel on the V&A Waterfront, with great views of Table Mountain. The ensuite rooms feature full-length windows, TV, minibar, air-conditioning, and a chair or sofa. High-speed Wi-Fi is complimentary. Breakfast and other meals are served at the a la carte Stonebreakers restaurant, and there's also a ground floor cafe to enjoy. Guests can also make use of the onsite gym.
At a Glance
