BOTSWANA CAMPING TOUR
16 DAY WILDLIFE SAFARI
Johannesburg – Johannesburg
2 Nights Lodge
2 Nights Canvas
11 Nights Camping

INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Khama Rhino Sanctuary
  • Okavango Delta
  • Okavango mokoro excursion
  • Delta walk
  • National Parks (Khwai/Moremi/Savuti – 5 days)
  • Extensive open-vehicle game drives in National Parks
  • Wild remote camping in National Parks
  • Makgadikgadi Salt Pans
  • Chobe River boat cruise
  • Chobe National Park
  • Victoria Falls National Park and entry fee

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES:

  • White water rafting
  • Bungee jumping
  • Scenic flight – Okavango Delta
  • Zambezi River sunset cruise

The casual visitor to Botswana could be excused for seeing the country as kilometre upon kilometre of flat, desolate scrubland with little or no surface water. But on closer inspection, coupled with local knowledge, a whole new world will manifest itself, and what is arguably Africa’s finest wildlife destination will be revealed. Botswana is a country the size of France, with over a quarter of its land set aside exclusively for nature conservation.

Our tour will take us through the vast Kalahari plains where we meet with the local Bushmen, among the oldest peoples of Africa. We then venture further north, into the magnificent Okavango Delta, the world’s largest inland river delta, which spills water from the faraway mountains of Angola into the vast plain of the Makgadikgadi, creating a unique wildlife paradise. We explore the world renowned National Parks in fully equipped, open 4×4 vehicles, our route following the age old game migration tracks, depending on the season. We enjoy a game viewing boat cruise on the Chobe River, in Chobe National Park, and finally we visit “The Smoke that Thunders” – Victoria Falls.

This tour offers the adventure traveller, the photographer, the birdwatcher and the naturalist the ultimate natural paradise.

DAY 1: KHAMA RHINO SANCTUARY

Our adventure starts on departure from Johannesburg at 06h30. Making our way through the dry thornveld of South Africa’s North West Province, we aim to cross the Botswana border at Martins Drift. On completion of customs and immigration formalities, we enter the vast Kalahari plains that stretch as far as the eye can see.

We will cover quite some distance today before arriving at our accommodation, Khama Rhino Sanctuary. The Khama Rhino Sanctuary (KRS) is a community- based wildlife project, established in 1992 to assist in saving the vanishing rhinoceros, restore an area formerly teeming with wildlife to its previous natural state and provide economic benefits to the local Botswana community through tourism and the sustainable use of natural resources. Covering approximately 8 585 hectares of Kalahari Sandveld, the sanctuary provides prime habitat for white and black rhino as well as over 30 other animal species and more than 230 species of birds.

Tonight we enjoy a catered meal while our guide explains the procedure for the days to come.

Meals: Lunch own expense, Dinner
Accommodation: Khama Rhino Sanctuary – Camping
(2 person dome tents)
Included Highlights/Activity:
– Scenic drive through North-West South Africa
– Kalahari Desert

DAY 2: MAUN

Awaking early, we set off on the first of many open vehicle game drives. We will explore the Khama Sanctuary in search of rhino and the many other species that inhabit this unique environment before returning to the camp for brunch.

We then continue our journey northward into the true wilderness and we pass through numerous remote villages whilst skirting the immense Salt Pans – Makgadikadi. The last part of our journey takes us along the Boteti River and to our stop for the night, the DRIFTERS MAUN LODGE. The Lodge offers comfortable twin bedded units, all with wonderful views over the wide Boteti River – the bird watching is exceptional. Fall asleep tonight to the deep grunts of hippo.

Meals: B L D
Accommodation: Camping (2 person dome tents)

DAY 3 – 4: OKAVANGO DELTA

After an early start, we leave the lodge and head back towards Maun before turning left and heading into the famous Okavango Delta.

The Okavango River, emanating from the highlands of central Angola far to the northwest, flows south- and eastwards, before slowing and spreading into one of the world’s only true inland deltas, creating as it does so a unique ecosystem that supports a huge variety of animal and plant life. The sight of a Jacana striding delicately amongst the flowering lilies, the Bee Eater diving to prey on an unsuspecting insect, and of course the familiar cry of the African Fish Eagle – all combine to create the canvas of one of nature’s unique masterpieces. The river, eventually spilling its contents into the vast plains of the Makgadikgadi sands, disappears.

Our comfortable and well appointed camp on the edge of one of the largest lagoons serves as a base from which we explore. We will glide through narrow reed-lined channels by mokoro, walk on uninhabited islands, and picnic in the wilderness, while learning about the animals and plants of the Delta from local guides who have grown up in the area. Through informal interaction with the guides, we will have the opportunity to learn about the local people and their way of life in this isolated wilderness. We will also have time to simply relax and enjoy the views over a glistening lagoon from a beautiful wooden deck, cold drink in hand, go for a walk with our guide, or take a refreshing dip in the pool. One afternoon we enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise on a boat.

Meals: B L D; B L D
Accommodation: Twin Bedded Tented Units (No linen)

Day 5: MAUN

Starting early, we transfer back to Maun. On arrival in Maun don’t miss out on the opportunity to take an own expense scenic flight over the Delta. Be sure to take in the breathtaking sights of the vast expanse of the Delta, and also keep an eye out for the wildlife that inhabits it. We arrive at the Drifters Maun Lodge late in the afternoon in time to take a refreshing dip in the pool and take in the awesome sunset. Retire for the night dreaming of the excitement of the coming days. But not before packing your bag and charging your batteries for your 4 night wild camping experience in the parks.

Meals: B D (Lunch is own expense)
Accommodation: Camping (2 person dome tents)

DAY 6-9: FLEXIBLE GAME RESERVE SCHEDULE KHWAI AREA

Awaking early with excitement, after a hearty breakfast we change our mode of transport and climb aboard our game viewing vehicles and be transported in open vehicle game viewers to our campsite on the banks of the Khwai river. This wild experience is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the tour.

For the next 4 days, we game-drive extensively during the day to stop at hides and water holes at leisure, and to make the most of our time here. We travel in well-equipped, open 4×4 Land Cruisers, with our local Motswana guides, exploring the Khwai concession and the famous reserves of Moremi and Savuti. Our route is flexible and depends on the season.

The vegetation is constantly changing – from open plains with palm trees, to marshland, to dense Mopane woodlands or Acacia scrub. This variety of habitats makes for excellent game viewing. The 4x4s aren’t just for show, as the national parks are truly wild places, the roads are just tracks in the sand. We carry only our cameras and day packs, a picnic lunch and drinks for the road.

Towards sunset we arrive back at our camp in the bush, where the ground staff have lit a warm fire to welcome us. After a hearty meal it is time to retire. Drifting off to sleep to the howl of the distant hyena or the earthy roar of a lion and even the deep grunt of a half-submerged hippo. We use an exclusive campsite on the banks of the Khwai river, completely secluded and undeveloped – it is as if we are the first people here, and are alone in the world. We bring everything we will need with us, and leave nothing behind when we depart.

Depending on the ever- changing conditions in the National Parks we might also venture into the vast Central Kalahari Game Reserve or the unique Makgadikgadi Pans National Park.

Meals: B L D; B L D; B L D; B L D
Accommodation: Camping (2 person dome tents)
Included Highlights/Activity:
– 4×4 open vehicle game drives
– Private non-fenced campsite
– Extensive first-hand game viewing experience
– Explore the heart of National Geographic’s photography region

DAY 10: MAKGADIKGADI PANS

Our last morning in the parks, we slowly game drive our way back to Maun. We enjoy a lunch at the Maun Lodge. The lodge is situated on the banks of the Boteti River. This river is known to change its flow direction, depending upon the season and rainfall patterns. After lunch we continue our journey eastwards to visit the spectacular Makgadikgadi Salt Pans area.

Oceans of golden grass give way to the stark white pans, under a very big sky. We camp the night in splendid isolation. The adventurous can sleep out under the stars and be rewarded with the awesome spectacle of the southern night sky. In some seasons the pans are not easily accessible, in which case we will camp at an interesting elephant watering hole.

Meals: B L D
Accommodation: Camping (2 person dome tents)
Included Highlights/Activity:
– Village walk
– Visit to Makgadikgadi Salt Pans
– Stargazing

DAY 11: CHOBE RIVER – VICTORIA FALLS

Venturing north today, we leave the desolation of the pans behind and make our way up to the mighty Chobe River. The Chobe area is known for the huge herds of elephants and other animals that are attracted to drink from the river. This afternoon we enjoy an extensive boat cruise within Chobe National Park, gliding close to the banks we hope to approach these animals from the river for close up viewing. Our cruise will explore the Chobe River front and a section of the Namibian side of the Chobe River. Back on land we cross the border into Zimbabwe and make our way to our accommodation in Victoria Falls. The lodge is centrally situated and within walking distance of the falls and other attractions.

Meals: B L
Accommodation: Lodge

DAY 12: VICTORIA FALLS

Awaking in the adventure capital of Africa, it is with new excitement that we explore the amazing Victoria Falls. “Mosi-oa-Tunya”, meaning “The smoke that Thunders”. This is the place where, according to ancient traditions, the “Big Snake” or “Nyami Nyami” is in hiding. Your entry fee to the Falls is included in the tour price, and you are free to spend as much time as you like viewing the Falls and exploring the surrounding rainforest. Various other attractions can be visited and activities enjoyed including the tribal village or curio market. Victoria Falls is also home to a multitude of adventure activities, such as an aircraft flip over the falls, a boat trip on the Zambezi River, white water rafting or bungee jumping, but allowance must be made for the extra expense of these optional, but worthwhile, activities.

We spend two nights here, thus allowing you some time to explore the town and all it has to offer, with the freedom to choose the sights and activities that interest you. Tonight we will eat out at a local restaurant (own expense). Relax to the sound of the African night and the distant roar of the Falls and drink a farewell toast to your adventure.

Meals: B
(Lunch and dinner is own expense in town)
Accommodation: Lodge
Included Highlights/Activity:
– Victoria Falls National Park
– Entry Fee for viewing the Falls
Optional Activities:
– Scenic helicopter flight
– White water rafting
– Bungee jump
– Gorge swing
– Many more available

DAY 13: HWANGE

After breakfast we travel the short distance to the renowned Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe’s premier game reserve. Famous for its massive herds of elephant and buffalo, the park is host to over 100 species of mammal and 400 species of bird, with lion, leopard and wild dog regularly sighted. This afternoon we will do an open vehicle game drive with local guides providing intimate knowledge of the area.

Meals: B L D
Accommodation: Camping (2 person dome tents)
Included Highlights/Activity:
– Hwange
– Game drive within the park

DAY 14: BULAWAYO – MATOBO

Today we travel south to Bulawayo, Zimbabwe’s second largest city, with its uniquely wide streets. We continue to the Matobo area where, in the afternoon, we enjoy an open vehicle drive into the Matobo National Park. Here, we will leave the vehicle to track rhino through the bush on foot. For most people, seeing these massive beasts on their own terms is a thrilling and moving experience.

Tonight our accommodation is situated high on a granite dome amongst the balancing boulders of the Matobo Hills, with commanding views over the park.

Meals: B L D
Accommodation: Big Cave – Camping (2 person dome tents)
Included Highlights/Activity:
– Matobo National Park
– Rhino tracking on foot

DAY 15: LIMPOPO

Our last night will be spent in Botswana, on a private game reserve along the banks of the Limpopo River. We will take our final walk together along the river, to savour the sights and smells of the African bush and catch our last glimpse of animals living free and wild. We end the day with dinner in the bush around a flickering fire.

Meals: B L D
Accommodation: Stevensford Game Reserve – Camping (2 person dome tents)
Included Highlights/Activity:
– Scenic drive
– Short walk

DAY 16: JOHANNESBURG

This morning, after crossing the border into South Africa, we follow a scenic route through the Waterberg Mountains, before entering the bustle of Africa’s economic heart and the Golden City of Johannesburg. The tour ends on arrival in the late afternoon in Johannesburg.

At time of going to print the above itinerary was correct, but Drifters continually strives to offer our clients the best available tour options, and, as such, we reserve the right to change aspects of the itinerary at our discretion. During the validity period of the published itinerary, conditions may change, roads may be improved or deteriorate, contracted camps and accommodation facilities may change standards, optional activities might become available or be discontinued, new border posts open or existing ones become congested, etc. Drifters are continuously monitoring all of the factors that contribute to a successful tour, and will make amendments to the published itinerary if circumstances so demand, or if we believe that the change will enhance the tour.

DEPARTURES
This tour departs from Johannesburg every Saturday. Please note – during peak season we may run two departures, in which case clients may be required to travel in the reverse direction.

At time of going to print the above itinerary was correct, but Drifters continually strive to offer our clients the best available tour options, and as such we reserve the right to change aspects of the itinerary at our discretion. During the validity period of the published itinerary, conditions may change, roads may be improved or deteriorate, contracted camps and accommodation facilities may change standards, optional activities might become available or be discontinued, new border posts open or existing ones become congested, etc. Drifters are continuously monitoring all of the factors that contribute to a successful tour, and will make amendments to the published itinerary if circumstances so demand, or if we believe that the change will enhance the tour.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

A sleeping bag, towel and pillow are required for this tour. Seasonal malaria precautions are necessary and are locally obtainable. A barrel bag or backpack is best suited for this trip (suitcases may not fit into the space provided). An extra day bag or camera bag is advised. Spending money will be required for the restaurant meals, drinks, visas, tips, curios, airport transfers, and any other optional excursions. (Zimbabwe airport tax US$30-00 for those flying out – subject to change.)

A valid passport is required by everyone. The tour will visit Botswana and Zimbabwe. It is the client’s responsibility to ensure they have the appropriate visas required for this trip, for all the countries we visit. Some nationalities may need to obtain visas before departure as they may not be obtainable at the border or on arrival.

Remember, help us to help you by participating and by keeping an open mind. Our price includes all food as specified, coffee, tea, juice at breakfast, transport, two Drifters crew, mokoro hire, accommodation, group equipment, permits and park entrance fees.

Our price does not include restaurant meals where stipulated, visas, tips, curios, optional excursions, entrance into Victoria Falls National park, alcohol, bottled water and soft drinks, airport tax, airport transfers and airfares.

Before departure, clients will be required to enter into an agreement and indemnity pertaining to our booking conditions and general information.

It is compulsory for clients to have their own comprehensive personal travel insurance that includes cover for (but not limited to) any medical emergencies as well as Covid 19 related cancellations or deviations prior or during the tour.