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Premium Southern Africa in Depth

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Premium Southern Africa in Depth

Was From $ 18,160 AUD
Now From $ 14,528 AUD
Sale!

Description

Uncover the true beauty of southern Africa on a 14-day Premium adventure through South Africa, Zimbabwe and Botswana. Spend two unforgettable days in the Greater Kruger region, cruise down the Zambezi River at sunset, marvel at the showstopping Victoria Falls and keep an eye out for elephants in Chobe National Park and Hwange National Park (home to the largest elephant population in Zimbabwe!). Set out in search of wildlife on a series of safaris, take scenic flights in and out of the Okavango Delta, hang out with a family of meerkats at the Ntwetwe Salt Pans and admire the curious beauty of the Makgadikgadi Pans. With expert knowledge from local guides, you’ll discover the best of this magnificent part of the world.

Trip Name
Premium Southern Africa in Depth
Last Updated
1970-01-01
Days
14
Capacity
12
Highlights
  • Enjoy two marvellous Feature Stays – a perfectly positioned camp on the Namibian banks of the Zambezi River and a scenic lodge in a private reserve within the Greater Kruger Region.
  • Let Signature Experiences take you closer to nature, including a 4WD adventure through the striking Makgadikgadi Pans and a privately catered cruise down the Zambezi River.
  • Seek out Africa’s most iconic wildlife – lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards and rhinos – with 4WD safaris in Kruger National Park (South Africa’s biggest reserve), Hwange National Park and Chobe National Park, where you’ll also go on an afternoon boat cruise along the Chobe River.
  • Visit the thundering Victoria Falls, one of the world's most spectacular natural wonders. Admire their power, then return to your comfortable lodge with magnificent views of uninterrupted wilderness.
  • Get a bird’s eye view of the Okavango Delta’s maze of lagoons, lakes and streams during scenic flights in and out of the delta. Plus, wind through the waterways on a traditional mokoro (canoe) with a team of expert guides to help you spot wildlife.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway and has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns. , OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk., ROAD CONDITIONS AND INFRASTRUCTURE IN AFRICA: Roads in Africa are often in very poor condition, which makes it hard on our vehicles. Our vehicles are serviced regularly and are generally in good condition, but breakdowns can and do happen. Sometimes the going on this trip is quite tough, the distances covered fairly large and some of the roads and tracks are not exactly smooth or free from dust, but the rewards are exceptional. The travelling times indicated in our Essential Trip Information is just a rough guide and is dependent on various factors that may be outside our control, such as road conditions, weather and time spent at borders. DRIVE TIMES: The travel times listed in the day to day itinerary are a guide only. Please be aware that delays may occur and please be patient - it's all part of the experience afterall! Additionally, the travel times do not include time spent on game drives as these can vary with each departure., NAMIBIA AND BOTSWANA IN PEAK SEASON Namibia and Botswana are becoming increasingly popular tourist destinations. Despite the influx of travellers, bed numbers are not being increased to match the demand. This intentional move is aimed at minimising the environmental impact of tourism and keeping the destinations exclusive. It is therefore becoming more and more difficult for us to confirm our allocation with our usual suppliers, particularly in peak season. We may use alternative accommodation which could affect driving times and distances listed in the Essential Trip Information. However we will always use properties of the same standard and ensure that no included activities will be affected.

Day 1 - Johannesburg
Sawubona! Welcome to South Africa. Your trip begins in Johannesburg, where you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, maybe introduce yourself to the area’s history at the Apartheid Museum, stroll through the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens or visit Constitution Hill. After your meeting, join your leader and fellow travellers for dinner at your hotel. South Africa is known for its diverse food scene flavoured by its multicultural influences – maybe try some boerewors (spiced South African sausage), or perhaps some springbok carpaccio (thinly sliced raw meat).
Day 2 - Kruger National Park
Set off early for a drive to Kruger National Park, arriving just in time for lunch at Mdluli Safari Lodge – your Feature Stay accommodation for the next two nights. Created in partnership with the local Mdluli community, the lodge is in perfect harmony with its wild surroundings. In the afternoon, you'll set off on your first open 4WD safari. See some of your favourite wild animals in their own habitat, including lions, elephants, rhinos and leopards!
Day 3 - Kruger National Park
This morning, make the journey into the heart of Kruger National Park, where you'll find yourself in the perfect position to catch a glimpse of one, or hopefully all, of Africa's iconic animals. Kruger National Park is one of the largest game reserves in Southern Africa, home to 500 bird species, 100 reptile species and 150 mammal species. As you journey through the park’s diverse habitats, including savanna, mixed acacia woodlands and rocky hills, you’ll stop at waterholes and other various points to see animals such as zebras, giraffes and African wild dogs, going about their day. Today's game drive will finish in time for sunset and drinks, served on a kopje at your Feature Stay. Pronounced 'kopee', these large ancient rock formations provide scenic contrasts across Africa's vast landscapes. Take a moment to sit back and take in the sounds and sights of the bush as the day turns to night.
Day 4 - Victoria Falls
Say goodbye to South Africa as you board a flight to Victoria Falls Airport in Zimbabwe. When you arrive, continue to your lodge accommodation, which serves up beautiful views of uninterrupted wilderness and a waterhole frequented by elephant, buffalo, kudu and more! Maybe spend the afternoon relaxing by the pool or spotting wildlife from the multiple viewing decks around the lodge, before embarking on a small and intimate dinner cruise on the Zambezi River tonight. Sit down to a four-course meal of fresh, locally sourced ingredients as you navigate around the islands above the thundering Victoria Falls. Be sure to look for crocodiles lazing on the banks or elephants and hippos submerging themselves in the river as the sun sets.
Day 5 - Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls is one of the most magnificent natural wonders in the world, and today you’ll witness its might. Plunging over 100 m into a deep gorge, take in its raw power and beauty as you explore the rich flora, fauna, birdlife and fascinating history of this UNESCO World Heritage site with your local leader by your side. The rest of the day is free for you to explore at your own pace. Maybe continue to wander around Victoria Falls or relax with a swim at Devil’s Pool – a natural rock pool at the edge of the waterfall (season dependent).
Day 6 - Hwange National Park
Depart Victoria Falls this morning, headed for Hwange. When you arrive, settle into your lodge. This afternoon, you’ll go on a wildlife safari in Hwange National Park. This is the largest national park in Zimbabwe’s north-west, spanning more than 14,500 sq km. Keep an eye out for buffalo, leopards, lions, elephants (Zimbabwe’s largest population of elephants resides here!) and endangered wild dogs. Nearly 400 species of birds can be found here, as well as rare mammals like sables and roan antelope. End the day by soaking up your surroundings with a sundowner in hand.
Day 7 - Hwange National Park
Embark on a full-day drive in Hwange National Park today to see more of the incredible wildlife that roams these vast savannas and teak forests. Return to your lodge in the mid-afternoon, where you’ll have some free time to relax.
Day 8 - Chobe National Park
Today, you’ll be transferred to your accommodation in Chobe National Park, where the next leg of your adventure begins. After you’ve settled in, you’re free to enjoy the rest of your day at your leisure. Relax at your hotel or perhaps go on a safari for yet another opportunity to spot the amazing wildlife that call this special part of Africa home. You'll meet your new group and leader for a welcome meeting at 6 pm. After, you’ll have dinner at the lodge. Enjoy a celebration of Indigenous food and the rich flavours of Africa as you dine next to the scenic Chobe River.
Day 9 - Zambezi River
Rise early for a morning safari in Chobe National Park. You might see elephants drinking at the water's edge, large herds of cape buffalo and many impalas within the park. Head back to the lodge for breakfast, then journey to the Ngoma Border Post before continuing to the Namibian side of the Zambezi River. Tonight you’ll stay in your Feature Stay accommodation – the Zambezi Mubala Lodge, a river hideaway where you can find hippos, vervet monkeys and more than 450 species of birds. Arrive in time for a hearty lunch at the lodge, then enjoy some downtime to relax by the pool, spot wildlife from the bar or soak up the wild surroundings on the banks of the Zambezi River. Speak to your leader about the optional seasonal activities for the afternoon, including a canoe trip, guided walking trail or a birding drive.
Day 10 - Zambezi River
Today, enjoy a restful morning at your Feature Stay. This afternoon, you’ll take a cruise down the Zambezi River. The privileged position of your camp allows you to access a part of the river that most visitors don’t get to see, which means you can view the abundant wildlife without the crowds – look out for large herds of elephants, buffalo and antelope. After, head back to the lodge for dinner and watch the sunset change the colours of the landscape.
Day 11 - Makgadikgadi Pans
Heading south, cross the Ngoma border back into Botswana and continue your journey to the vast salt flats and grassy plains of the Makgadikgadi Pans. Located in the north-east of Botswana, the Makgadikgadi Pans sit in the middle of a dry savanna and are all that remain of the former Lake Makgadikgadi. This afternoon, you’ll head out on a 4WD excursion. The immense, sprawling salt flat will unfold in front of you as you look out for birds and animals, some who are seasonal visitors and some who call the area home all year. Sit out on the pans and enjoy drinks and snacks as the sun sets, then return to the lodge for dinner.
Day 12 - Maun
Travel to the edge of the Ntwetwe Salt Pans, home to a family of meerkats. With the aid of trackers, you'll observe their morning rituals – watch the meerkats bask in the morning sun before heading out to forage. When you’ve had your fill of watching these magnificent creatures, you’ll stop at a lodge for lunch, then continue to Maun – the gateway to the Okavango Delta, one of the world's most complex ecosystems.
Day 13 - Maun
Today, you'll fly into the Okavango Delta for a safari, giving you a chance to see the delta’s diverse wildlife from a fresh angle and get a sense of the vast scale of the landscape from up above. After you land, you’ll head out on a safari in the Moremi Game Reserve, accompanied by expert guides and wildlife spotters. This is a prime area for viewing elephants, lions, leopards, wild dogs and buffalo roaming the savannas, lagoons and forests. After, have lunch at a safari lodge, then hop into a traditional mokoro (a dugout canoe steered by friendly local 'polers') for an Okavango waterways experience. With some luck, you might spot some more of the delta's wildlife or birdlife. Spend some time exploring the maze of lagoons, lakes and streams by mokoro before exploring on foot with a local guide. View plants, trees and animals from a different perspective and observe close-up details often missed on safaris. Your guide will provide expert knowledge and help you gain a deeper understanding of the environment. After, fly back to Maun.
Day 14 - Maun
Today, your trip comes to an end after breakfast, but this doesn’t mean the adventure has to end! If you’d like to spend more time here, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
25-07-202607-08-2026AUD $ 14,528-
01-08-202614-08-2026AUD $ 18,330-
15-08-202628-08-2026AUD $ 18,630-
29-08-202611-09-2026AUD $ 18,130-
05-09-202618-09-2026AUD $ 17,990-
12-09-202625-09-2026AUD $ 18,630-
19-09-202602-10-2026AUD $ 17,490-
03-10-202616-10-2026AUD $ 18,795-
24-10-202606-11-2026AUD $ 18,130-
12-12-202625-12-2026AUD $ 17,030-
13-02-202726-02-2027AUD $ 19,635-
10-04-202723-04-2027AUD $ 19,635-
01-05-202714-05-2027AUD $ 20,815-
15-05-202728-05-2027AUD $ 21,205-
29-05-202711-06-2027AUD $ 21,205-
12-06-202725-06-2027AUD $ 20,225-
19-06-202702-07-2027AUD $ 20,225-
26-06-202709-07-2027AUD $ 20,225-
10-07-202723-07-2027AUD $ 21,205-
17-07-202730-07-2027AUD $ 21,205-
24-07-202706-08-2027AUD $ 21,205-
31-07-202713-08-2027AUD $ 21,205-
07-08-202720-08-2027AUD $ 20,225-
14-08-202727-08-2027AUD $ 20,225-
28-08-202710-09-2027AUD $ 20,225-
04-09-202717-09-2027AUD $ 20,815-
11-09-202724-09-2027AUD $ 20,815-
18-09-202701-10-2027AUD $ 20,815-
25-09-202708-10-2027AUD $ 20,815-
02-10-202715-10-2027AUD $ 19,635-
23-10-202705-11-2027AUD $ 19,635-
06-11-202719-11-2027AUD $ 19,635-
11-12-202724-12-2027AUD $ 19,635-
12-02-202825-02-2028AUD $ 20,615-
29-04-202812-05-2028AUD $ 20,615-
13-05-202826-05-2028AUD $ 22,265-
27-05-202809-06-2028AUD $ 22,265-
10-06-202823-06-2028AUD $ 21,235-
17-06-202830-06-2028AUD $ 21,235-
24-06-202807-07-2028AUD $ 21,235-
15-07-202828-07-2028AUD $ 22,265-
29-07-202811-08-2028AUD $ 22,265-
05-08-202818-08-2028AUD $ 21,235-
12-08-202825-08-2028AUD $ 21,235-
26-08-202808-09-2028AUD $ 21,235-
02-09-202815-09-2028AUD $ 21,855-
16-09-202829-09-2028AUD $ 21,855-
23-09-202806-10-2028AUD $ 21,855-
21-10-202803-11-2028AUD $ 20,615-

Accommodation

Hotel (1 night), Lodge (12 nights)

Transport

4x4, Open 4x4 Safari Vehicle, Private vehicle, Plane, Riverboat

Map