SMALL GROUP LODGE SAFARI: Travel from Cape Town's iconic Table Mountain in South Africa to thundering Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe on this lodge accommodated overland adventure, taking in the highlights of Namibia and Botswana en route. Marvel at Fish River Canyon and the towering Sossusvlei dunes, enjoy game drives in Etosha and Chobe, mokoro rides in the Okavango Delta, and more, in 20 unforgettable days.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Cape Town
Upon arrival at Cape Town International Airport you'll be met and transferred to our centrally located Waterfront hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or head out and explore South Africa's captivating Mother City. At 18.00hrs this evening meet your guide and the rest of the group at our pre departure meeting in the hotel lobby.
Overnight: Cape Town
Cape Peninsula Tour
Today we enjoy a full day tour of the beautiful Cape Peninsula. Driving along the Atlantic seaboard via Hout Bay and Chapman’s Peak, taking 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). This evening why not sample the wonderful selection of restaurants and bars in Cape Town's bustling Waterfront.
Overnight: Cape Town | Breakfast
Namaqualand
Cape Town - Namaqualand. Bidding farewell to Cape Town we begin our overland journey, travelling through the beautiful Namaqualand region, which is truly spectacular between August and October when there's an explosion of colourful 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 an optional wine tasting session where you can sample the local wines of the area.
Overnight: Namaqualand | Breakfast, Dinner
Augrabies Falls National Park
Namaqualand - Augrabies Falls National Park. We head north 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
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
Augrabies Falls National Park - Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. On day 5 we continue our journey north to the magnificent Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park in the Kalahari. 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 and the resident black mane lion.
Overnight: Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park (2) | Breakfast x 2, Dinner x 2
Fish River Canyon
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park - Fish River Canyon (Namibia). We leave the Kalahari region this morning and head west, crossing the border into Namibia where we spend the night at a lodge in an incredibly scenic area. This afternoon (or early tomorrow morning) 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 metres deep.
Overnight: Fish River Canyon | Breakfast, Dinner
Sossusvlei & Sesriem
Fish River Canyon - Sesriem. Our journey on day 8 takes us north through ever-changing scenery to our accommodation located on 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 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
Swakopmund
Sesriem - Swakopmund. We head to the coast today, stopping for lunch at Walvis Bay where we can see the huge flock of flamingos that gather here to feed. This afternoon we arrive in the German colonial town of Swakopmund. The rest of the day is free to relax 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 continue our journey north through the incredible mountainous terrain of Damaraland. Our accommodation for the night is a lodge 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.
Overnight: Damaraland | Breakfast, Dinner
Etosha National Park
Damaraland - Etosha National Park. On day 12 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 leave Etosha National Park, travel north and enter the Caprivi Strip, a narrow stretch of Namibian territory between Botswana and Angola. We spend the night at a lodge near the Okavango River and 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
Okavango Delta
Rundu - Okavango Delta (Botswana). On day 15 we travel further into the Caprivi Strip, before crossing into Botswana and arriving at our lodge on the edge of the Okavango Delta. The next day we explore the lush Okavango Delta by boat and on foot. We enjoy a mokoro (traditional canoe) cruise and guided nature walks on land (water levels permitting).
Overnight: Okavango Delta (2) | Breakfast x 2, Lunch x 1, Dinner x 2
Chobe National Park
Okavango Delta - Chobe National Park. Heading back into Namibia on day 17 we continue along the Caprivi Strip before crossing 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 go in search of wildlife on a morning game drive in Chobe National Park and in the afternoon we enjoy 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
Victoria Falls
Chobe River - Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe). Today marks the final leg of our journey as we cross the border into Zimbabwe and travel on to Victoria Falls. 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
Today our overland adventure comes to an end after breakfast and hotel check out. A departure transfer to Victoria Falls Airport is included. We can also book post tour accommodation upon request.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
All departures are guaranteed with a minimum of 4 persons. This safari has a maximum group size of 16. The 'Twin/Double' price is per person when there are 2 people sharing a room. The 'Single' 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 3500, 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Reviews
Travellers have rated this tour as 4.25 out of 5 based on 4 recent reviews
Overall this tour exceeded my expectations.
The accommodation was unique and excellent especially the Gondwana camps. The only disappointment was swamp stop. Accommodation setting was nice but lodge and rooms 2 star at best. Such a pity as activities on the river were good. Accommodation had, broken doors, cracked cisterns, no to poor lighting in all rooms. very tired and run down.
The timetable is a little tight in places with early starts and long days on the bus with not always enough time to enjoy each location. With no air conditioning I would not like to do this tour peak summer
Overall food was good as a person with special dietary needs no gluten, I carried my own supplementary supplies. Outside of an omlette for breakfast and a main meal of meat snd veg nothing I could eat in way of desserts bar fruit the guide bought on the bus which was appreciated. Special diets should be advised trying bring packaged food they cannot get. gluten free in supermarkets outside Cape Town.
Information on tipping could be improved. While our additional upfront payment covered portage we were not fully aware of addition tipping charges in Botswana and Chobe for drives boats, kitchen staff day guides etc. at the end of tour. Most of us on this trip would have preferred all tips included as a single extra payment so we could just use our cards and not bother with cash and let the driver handle these tips etc, also can get Zimbabwe visa by credit card so don’t have to carry cash. Further we all got rid of our rand only to find we could then use in Namibia.
Small things in the scheme of things but annoying at the time
The guide was courteous, polite, extremely hard working. Always smiling made the trip pleasant and very helpful an excellent ambassador for Kiboko.
If this is the standard of on the go sub contractors I will definite definitely book other tours ”
A great experience, as it was definitely not a holiday. Very early starts, long days over rough roads. It was at times tedious due to the desert landscape, often cold in the morning and very hot later in the day depending on location. No aircon on the truck so avoid going in summer. Mischeck was our guide. He was very good and ensured things ran smoothly most of the time., which is not always easy in Africa. He was friendly, had a good sense of humour and was always available to answer questions. The accommodation in lodges was mostly very good, with a couple of properties not quite up to standard. The food was excellent and plentiful. I would highly recommend the tour from Cape Town to Vic Falls rather than the reverse as most of the animals we saw were in Etosha and Chobe.”
Great tour. Thoroughly enjoyed and meet all my expectations.
Collin the tour guide was very organized and kept the whole tour on track,
He had a good knowledge of the route and was very informative. He was also very friendly and made everyone feel at ease.
The Swampstop lodge was a little rundown and could use some maintenance in the bathrooms.
Sprayview also served meals that were not fully cooked, which had to be sent back. This happened more than once so we stopped eating there.
All the other lodges exceeded our expectations. ”
I enjoyed the tour very much. The guide was excellent and knowledgeable about everything”
At a Glance
A great experience, as it was definitely not a holiday. Very early starts, long days over rough roads. It was at times tedious due to the desert landscape, often cold in the morning and very hot later in the day depending on location. No aircon on the truck so avoid going in summer. Mischeck was our guide. He was very good and ensured things ran smoothly most of the time., which is not always easy in Africa. He was friendly, had a good sense of humour and was always available to answer questions. The accommodation in lodges was mostly very good, with a couple of properties not quite up to standard. The food was excellent and plentiful. I would highly recommend the tour from Cape Town to Vic Falls rather than the reverse as most of the animals we saw were in Etosha and Chobe.”