SMALL GROUP LODGE SAFARI: Embark upon an amazing two week overland adventure in Southern Africa, staying in comfortable lodge accommodation. From Windhoek take in the highlights of Namibia and Botswana, en route to Zimbabwe's spectacular Victoria Falls. Travel through incredible landscapes, scale the towering Sossusvlei dunes and encounter wonderful wildlife on safari in Etosha and Chobe National Parks. Explore the waterways of the Okavango Delta, cruise the Chobe River and much more along the way.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Sossusvlei & Sesriem
Windhoek - Sesriem. Leaving Windhoek, we travel south to the edge of the Namib Desert. Our lodge here is just a few kilometres 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 moderate 5-kilometre 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
Swakopmund
Sesriem - Swakopmund. Today we head towards the coast, stopping for lunch at Walvis Bay. This part of Namibia is known for the huge numbers of flamingos that gather to feed, and you'll be able to get a good look at these beautiful birds.
Arriving in the German colonial coastal town of Swakopmund mid-afternoon, there's free time for you to relax at the hotel or enjoy some of the optional activities available. You could head out to sea on a dolphin-watching cruise, or take to the skies with a scenic flight over the Namib Desert (book and pay locally).
Overnight: Swakopmund | Breakfast
Damaraland
Swakopmund - Damaraland. After a leisurely morning, we head north through the incredible mountainous terrain of Damaraland. The views along the route are spectacular, and we stop to meet some of the native Herero tribe and shop at a Herero market.
Our lodge is located on top of a mountain with spectacular views of the surrounding area, as well as a pool carved out of the natural rock face. It's an amazing place to spend the night. It is also home to one of the world's longest ziplines, which is a spectacular way to take in the surrounding Damaraland scenery!
Overnight: Damaraland | Breakfast, Dinner
Etosha National Park
Damaraland - Etosha National Park. On day 6 we travel on to Etosha, Namibia's flagship national park where we enjoy our first game drive in the park, in our overland vehicle. Dominated by a giant salt pan, it is easy to the spot wildlife that gathers around the few watering holes to drink. Some of the species you may spot in the park include lion, leopard, cheetah, elephant, zebra and giraffe. Our lodge is located just outside the park entrance and this evening you can sit on your private patio and listen to the sounds of the bush. The following day we enjoy a full day game drive in open 4x4 vehicles from our lodge.
Overnight: Etosha National Park (2) | Breakfast x 2, Dinner x 2
Okavango River
Etosha National Park - Rundu. It's a long drive today as we head out of Etosha National Park, journey north and enter the Caprivi Strip, a narrow stretch of Namibian territory between Botswana and Angola. Arrive at the Hakusembe River Lodge, which is located near the Okavango River. Here you can opt for a boat cruise on the river during the afternoon, or simply relax and enjoy your tranquil surroundings.
Overnight: Rundu | Breakfast, Dinner
Okavango Delta
Rundu - Okavango Delta (Botswana). On day 9 we travel further into the Caprivi Strip, before crossing into Botswana and arriving at our lodge, on the banks of the Okavango River. The next day sees us exploring the Okavango Delta by boat and on foot. We enjoy a mokoro (traditional canoe) cruise and guided game walks on land (water levels permitting). The Delta is home to the majority of Africa's iconic species, from giraffe to rhino and hippo to elephant.
Overnight: Okavango Delta (2) | Breakfast x 2, Lunch x 1, Dinner x 2
Chobe National Park
Okavango Delta - Chobe National Park. Day 11 we head back into Namibia and continue along the Caprivi Strip, then cross back into Botswana via Chobe National Park to our lodge on the banks of the Chobe River. Not far away is a point where four countries (Namibia, Bolivia, Zambia and Zimbabwe) all converge.
The next day we venture into Chobe National Park in search of the Big Five on an included morning game drive and in the afternoon we head out onto the Chobe River for a sunset game viewing cruise. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and other animals coming to the river's edge to drink.
Overnight: Chobe National Park (2) | Breakfast x 2, Dinner x 2
Victoria Falls
Chobe National Park - Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe). Today we complete the final leg of our journey to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. The rest of the day is free for you to browse the local markets, visit the spectacular Victoria Falls and enjoy some of the optional activities on offer. You could take a helicopter ride over the falls, or get up close to the mighty cascade on a sunset cruise.
Overnight: Victoria Falls | Breakfast
Victoria Falls
Our overland adventure comes to an end after breakfast and hotel check out today. A departure transfer to Victoria Falls Airport is included.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
All departures 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/NAD 2500, 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.
Arebbusch Travel Lodge , Windhoek
Located 5 km from central Windhoek, Arebbusch Travel Lodge is an ideal place to explore the fascinating nature, wildlife and sunsets. All en-suite guest rooms are fitted with air-conditioners, fridges & DSTV and have a view of the beautiful garden offering a peaceful and calming atmosphere. This incredible gateway to many wonders of Namibia has a restaurant on site that serves traditional African cuisine that can be enjoyed on the terrace overlooking the pond with fountain. Or enjoy a drink by the pool to unwind after a busy day.
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!
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
At a Glance
A wonderful guide and an itinerary that was well explained in the tour descriptions. The long days of travel were expected to cover such vast distances but the quality of the vehicle with a very non shock absorbing ride especially in the back two rows made the journey seem longer. Wonderful accommodation except at the Swamp Stop which was musty and run down. Not a three star by any means. That being said, the staff there were excellent and did a great job of trying to make everything else excellent. Collin was knowledgeable, funny and a perfect driver and guide. Despite this I would recommend this trip to anyone”
