Safari: Between Delta and Caprivi
During this twelve-day lodge safari you will set foot in three countries of Southern Africa: Botswana, Namibia, and Zambia.
The journey begins in the comfortable Thamalakane River Lodge, nestled on the outskirts of Maun. From there you will set off to the north of the breathtaking Okavango Delta. Following an exploration of the enchanting Okavango Panhandle, the lush landscapes of Namibia's captivating Caprivi Strip become the focal point of your exploration over the next two days. Here you will start in beautiful Bwabwata National Park and stop at Katima Mulilo on the mighty Zambezi River.
Then you will continue your way to the Zambian city of Livingstone, located adjacent to the renowned Victoria Falls – a world-famous natural spectacle. Following your visit to the remarkable UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, you will gradually make your way back to the Lesoma Valley and the Chobe River. From there, you'll traverse the imposing Makgadikgadi Salt Pans in Botswana, concluding your expedition in the vibrant town of Maun. An experienced guide will always accompany you during game drives, walking safaris, and boat trips, providing you with exciting background knowledge on the flora and fauna of Southern Africa.
Highlights
- Travel to three countries in Southern Africa: Botswana, Namibia and Zambia
- Dive into the green, water-rich depths of the Okavango Delta
- Witness the variety of species in the Caprivi Strip
- Experience the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans in the Kalahari
- Visit the majestic Victoria Falls in Zambia
- Enjoy the comfort of fantastic safari lodges
- Explore breathtaking regions via game drives, bush walks and boat tours
Locations
Plan your trip
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Included in the programme fee
- Assistance with travel arrangements
- Assistance with selecting travel insurance
- Pre-departure information pack
- Airport pick up and drop off
- Accommodation as per itinerary
Daniel, your travel agent for Botswana
You would like to learn more about this trip? Don't hesitate to contact me! Our service doesn't end with your departure: I answer all of your questions and support you before, during and after your stay abroad.
Safari in Botswana, Namibia and Zambia
This twelve-day lodge safari takes you from the Kalahari and Okavango Delta in Botswana, Namibia's Caprivi Strip to the majestic Victoria Falls in Zambia, allowing you to experience the wildlife, nature and culture of Southern Africa in an unparalleled way.
Arrival and orientation in Botswana
You will fly via O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg to Maun Airport, where you should arrive by around 13:30 on the day the safari starts. At the airport, you will be greeted by your guide at 14:00 and you and your group will set off with him on the immediate onward journey to Thamalakane River Lodge outside Maun.
Here you can settle into your accommodation and relax in the evening so that you are ready for an early departure the next morning and can start your safari adventure.
Activities during the safari
A typical exploration day during a safari trip usually includes one activity in the morning and one activity in the afternoon. However, in many cases the transfer is a highlight in itself, as it allows you to enjoy unique landscapes and views. Activities or transfers are always accompanied by an experienced guide.
Daily programme: In the early hours of the morning, the group sets off on an exciting discovery tour under the guidance of the guide, as the wildlife is particularly active at this time.
Off-road vehicles, on foot or by boat offer the opportunity to explore the diverse flora and fauna of southern Africa at close quarters. To escape the midday sun, you return to your accommodation in the late morning, followed by a fortifying lunch and a relaxing siesta lasting several hours.
After a refreshing cup of coffee or tea in the afternoon, the group sets off again into the fascinating African wilderness. After more game viewing and unforgettable moments, the group returns to the accommodation for dinner. The day comes to a cosy end with a campfire and a relaxing evening drink.
Accommodation during the safari trip
During your trip, you will spend the night in various safari accommodations, which are lodges with cosy double rooms or spacious safari tents. You will be served various meals in each accommodation. Drinks, however, are not included in the price.
You will spend the first night of your safari at Thamalakane River Lodge, near Maun. Here you have the opportunity to recover from your long-haul flight and prepare for an early departure the next day, when the real adventure begins.
The Xaro Lodge is your second accommodation of the journey. It is located on a narrow strip of land in the Okavango Delta, the so-called "Panhandle", on the banks of the Okavango River in the northwest of the Delta.
Here you will stay in safari tents built on wooden platforms, all of which have private bathrooms and private verandas overlooking the river. In the main area you will find a lounge, a restaurant plus dining area, a library and a swimming pool. The beautiful lodge is only accessible by boat.
Next, we continue to Nambwa Tented Lodge, which is situated in Namibia's beautiful Caprivi Strip in the north-east of the country. Situated in the middle of the Bwabwata National Park on an island on the Kwando River, it accommodates its guests in elevated tented chalets with en-suite bathrooms. Each of the spacious chalets has a small lounge, a viewing deck, a safe and mosquito nets. Further viewing platforms can be found throughout the lodge, and in the main area there is also a restaurant and dining area, a bar, a library, a fireplace, a small souvenir shop and a swimming pool. WiFi is also available in the main area.
The Caprivi River Lodge is another accommodation in Namibia, situated about 10 kilometres east of Katima Nulilo in the Caprivi Strip directly on the Zambezi River.
Guests will be checked into their rooms which feature cool, comfortable thatched chalets that include unique hand-made and hand-carved furniture all from local woods and carved by local artists. There is also a boma fireplace with African chairs where you can relax after dinner and round off the evening.
Your accommodation in Zambia is the beautiful David Livingstone Safari Lodge. On the banks of the Zambezi and just a few minutes' drive from Victoria Falls, guests stay in luxurious double rooms with en-suite bathrooms and a wonderful view of the river.
In the communal space, there is a dining area, a bar, a small souvenir shop, and a swimming pool with magnificent river views. The lodge also has WiFi, a spa and wellness area, and a small boat for cruises on the Zambezi.
Goodbye Zambia, Hello Botswana: Here either the Tlouwana Lodge or the Elephant Valley will be your accommodation for two nights. Those accommodations in the Lesoma Valley avoid the hustle and bustle of the town of Kasane.
Moreover, it offers peaceful game viewing and birdwatching opportunities in the Lesoma Valley, Chobe National Park, and on the Chobe River itself. You will either stay in a Luxury Tent or in an authentic Forest Tent depending on your stay.
The last accommodation of your safari trip is the Nata or Gweta Lodge in Botswana, which is located in the Kalahari on the edge of the immense Makgadikgadi salt pans. This area comprises a variety of salt pans and vast grass plains and forms the Great Makgadikgadi.
Guests are accommodated in one of the wooden chalets or safari tents built on stilts, each with its own small veranda and attached bathroom with outdoor shower. There is also a restaurant, a lounge, a swimming pool and a campsite with sanitary facilities.
Free time as a Safari Guest in Southern Africa
On exploration days, there is usually a siesta of several hours after lunch which can be used until early afternoon as a break for napping, reading, or observing animals from your veranda. After dinner, there is also some time for guests to enjoy themselves.
On transfer days, which form the majority of this safari trip, there is no such siesta as described above. Please note that the cost of any additional activities not described in the itinerary must be covered by you.
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Day 1
Arrival in Maun and transfer to Thamalakane River Lodge, Botswana
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Day 2
Transfer to the northern Okavango Delta, Botswana
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Day 3
Exploration day of the Okavango Panhandle, Botswana
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Day 4
Transfer to the Bwabwata National Park, Namibia
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Day 5
Transfer within the Caprivi Strip + Sunset Cruise, Namibia
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Day 6
Transfer to Livingstone, Zambia
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Day 7
Exploration day in Livingstone, Zambia
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Day 8
Transfer to the Lesoma Valley, Botswana
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Day 9
Exploration day of the Chobe River, Botswana
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Day 10
Transfer to the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans and Village Visit, Botswana
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Day 11
Exploring the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, Botswana
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Day 12
Departure back to Maun, Botswana
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Notes
Important information about this trip
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1. Maun
Maun is the fifth largest city in Botswana with just under 56,000 inhabitants and is located in the northern part of the country. Located on the south-eastern edge of the Okavango Basin, it is considered the most important starting point for safaris into the spectacular Okavango Delta. The city’s usual nickname is therefore also "Gate to the Okavango Delta".
During a stay in Maun, the small but fine cultural offer of the city can be enjoyed: A scenic flight by plane or helicopter, a city tour or a visit to local markets and shops enable guests to explore the charming little town and its surrounding region.
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2. Okavango Delta
The Okavango Delta in Botswana is without doubt one of the most spectacular natural sites in Southern Africa, if not in the entire world. Covering more than 20,000 km², the fertile oasis in the northwestern part of the country is the largest inland delta of our planet. The mighty UNESCO World Heritage Site is fed by the Okavango River, which once a year floods down from the highlands of Angola into an endless labyrinth of river courses, islands and lagoons. With a visit to the Delta, one of the last natural paradises on earth awaits you, whose awe-inspiring biodiversity will amaze every visitor.
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3. Xaro Lodge
Beautiful Xaro Lodge is located in the northwest of Botswana's Okavango Delta on a small island on the banks of the Okavango River. The region is also known as the Okavango Panhandle, a narrow strip of land in the Delta. Even the journey to the lodge itself is a small highlight, as the lodge, located amidst a true bird paradise, can only be reached by boat.
Guests stay in one of the 18 safari tents built on wooden platforms, each with its own attached bathroom and veranda. The veranda offers fantastic views over the vast water landscape. The main area of the lodge includes a lounge, a library, a restaurant and a swimming pool. A variety of safari activities allow you to explore this wonderful area.
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4. Nambwe Tented Lodge
Nambwe Tented Lodge is the only lodge with its own concession in Namibia's Bwabwata National Park, situated in the tropical Caprivi Strip. An elevated wooden walkway winds through a small grove and connects the ten luxurious tent suites with the spacious main area of the lodge.
Nambwe Tented Lodge's viewing deck offers unmatched views of the extensive floodplains, being regularly visited by huge herds of elephant and buffalo. Day and night drives, walking safaris, boat trips and mokoro tours are available to explore the diverse wildlife of Bwabwata National Park. The park is home to more than 35 species of mammals including elephant, lion, leopard, hyaena and hippo.
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5. Caprivi Strip
The Caprivi Strip is a zip-shaped, narrow bulge in the northeastern part of Namibia. This tropical paradise captivates by its unique landscapes and – due to its rivers and numerous rainfalls – is one of the regions with the most game in Namibia. No less than four remarkable reserves are located in this special safari destination: Khaudom National Park, Mamili National Park, Mudumu and Mamili National Park and Bwabwata National Park.
In Caprivi you can observe particularly large herds of elephants but also cats of prey, rhinos, buffalos, numerous antelope species, hippos, crocodiles, wild dogs and many other representatives of the African fauna.
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6. Caprivi River Lodge
Caprivi River Lodge is situated on the lush banks of the mighty Zambezi River on the outskirts of Katima Mulilo, nestled under the shady canopy of tall indigenous trees; surrounded by green lawns and beautiful gardens that attract a wide variety of birdlife.
A theme throughout the lodge is the unique furniture and carvings. Incorporated in the main building are the lounge, bar, and kitchen, flowing from this is our dining Lapa and an extension to this are the decks and walkways overlooking the waters of the Zambezi.
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7. Livingstone
Livingstone is the gateway to Zambia's world-famous Victoria Falls and awaits guests with a mix of adventure, culture, scenery and wildlife. Canoe or kayak trips, white water rafting or bungee jumping on the mighty Zambezi River provide action and adrenaline.
If you are drawn out into nature, you can admire the impressive phenomenon of the Victoria Falls up close or observe wild animals on a safari in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. Culture enthusiasts also get their money's worth in Livingstone: the museums, markets and historical sites of the city offer many interesting impressions for their visitors. From tranquillity and relaxation to excitement and adventure: Livingstone offers a wide range of opportunities to experience.
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8. David Livingstone Safari Lodge
The beautiful David Livingstone Safari Lodge is situated close to the impressive Victoria Falls, right on the banks of the Zambezi River. Accommodated in a spacious double room with private bathroom and balcony, guests can enjoy unique views over the picturesque river landscape. The accommodation also features a beautiful main area with a restaurant, a lounge, a bar, a swimming pool and a spa and wellness centre.
David Livingstone Safari Lodge is a perfect base from which to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Victoria Falls but also to enjoy other highlights of Livingstone's wide range of leisure activities.
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9. Nata Lodge
Nata Lodge is located on the edge of Botswana's vast Makgadikgadi Salt Pans in the middle of the mighty Kalahari. It is not far from the Nata Bird Sanctuary, a 230 km² conservation area and true bird paradise.
Guests at Nata Lodge are accommodated in one of the wooden chalets or safari tents built on stilts, each with its own small veranda and attached bathroom including outdoor showers. Nata Lodge also has a restaurant, a lounge, a swimming pool and a campsite with sanitary facilities. Safari guests can explore the breathtaking Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, Makgadikgadi National Park and the beautiful Nata Bird Sanctuary.
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10. Makgadikgadi Salt Pans
Covering an area of about 16,000 km², the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans in Botswana are among the largest salt pans in the world. This area is the least populated region of Botswana and is home to the colony of meerkats. As the remains of a huge lake, the salt pans are located northeast of the Kalahari and southeast of the Okavango Delta.
Almost 5,000 km² of this rough, barren and dry area are protected by the Makgadikgadi National Park which was founded in 1992. While the pans themselves have a salty surface with only grass on their edges, the area in between is characterised by sand dunes, rocky islands and desert areas.
Background of the safari trip in Botswana, Namibia and Zambia
This safari trip allows you to get to know three countries in Southern Africa within twelve exciting days: Botswana, Namibia and Zambia. All of them are characterised by impressive landscapes, a species-rich animal world and true natural highlights. With a visit to the Kalahari you will experience one of the world's largest deserts, witness the Okavango Delta, one of the largest and most animal-rich wetlands in Africa, and marvel at the Zambian side of Victoria Falls, which are the widest waterfall on earth.
Lush nature is joined by culture and adventure: a visit to the San in Botswana provides valuable cultural insights into the life and traditions of the ancient hunter-gatherer people, while in Livingstone a wide range of leisure activities can be enjoyed, from bungee jumping to river rafting and helicopter flights. Experienced guides lead you to the most beautiful places and bring you a little closer to the richness of Southern Africa.
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