Botswana Highlights

ABOUT THIS TRIP

Botswana is considered Africa's best-kept secret. Endless expanses, a magnificent wilderness and untouched nature give this country the much-cited title of "Africa's last paradise". If you are looking for adventure and want to see animals in their natural environment, then Chobe National Park, the Makgadikgadi salt pans and the Okavango Delta are just the place for you. Optionally, an extension to Victoria Falls can be booked, including transfers and activities (in this case, the tour would not start at Kasane airport, but at Victoria Falls airport). Individual changes to the tour itinerary or the rental car category are possible on request; we will be happy to send you a personalized offer. Note: A four-wheel drive vehicle is not necessary for this route. The highways and regional roads are tarred and in an acceptable condition.

OVERNIGHT STATIONS

• 2x Ngoma Bridge
• 1x Nata
• 1x Gweta
• 1x Maun
• 3x Khwai
• 2x Okavango Delta

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• 10x overnight stay in the Comfort ***/**** category
• 10x breakfast, 7x lunch, 9x dinner
• 1x rental car class I (Toyota Fortuner 4×4 Automatic or similar)
• Activities Chobe National Park
• Excursion Ntwetwe Pan incl. sleep out, meerkat tour
• Activities Khwai Concession (northern Okavango Delta)
• Activities Okavango Delta
• Comprehensive travel documents according to the booked tour itinerary
• Local offices with 24-hour hotline (German/English)
• Travel insurance certificate

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• Meals not mentioned
• not mentioned or optional activities
• Flight performance
• Entrance fees and conservation fees not mentioned
• other personal expenses, tips
• personal travel insurance
• Additional costs for rental car (conditions see below)

DAY 1 TO DAY 3:

VICTORIA FALLS

The mighty Victoria Falls are located directly on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia and are without doubt one of the main attractions of southern Africa - a natural wonder that is second to none! The locals call the mighty waterfall "Mosi-oa-Tunya", which translates as "thundering smoke" and describes the natural spectacle very aptly. The Zambezi River plunges abruptly into a 110-metre-deep gorge over a length of more than one kilometer, producing an enormous spray that can be seen for miles depending on the season and water level. On Zimbabwe's side of the falls, a paved circular path leads directly along the gorge and offers a constantly changing view of the water masses from 16 different vantage points.

Stay at the cozy PheZulu Guest Lodge on the outskirts of Victoria Falls. The rooms of the stylish lodge are arranged around the pool area and the accommodation is run as a family business. Many attractions in the area as well as the town center can be reached on foot in about 30 minutes. (21 rooms: bath/WC, air conditioning, safe, mosquito nets, tea/coffee station, small veranda. Lodge: garden, pool, lounge, bar, dining room, terrace, dinner on request)

Included are a guided tour to the falls, a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, a transfer from or to Kasane (the visa for Zimbabwe must be paid in USD in cash at the border), as well as a transfer from or to Victoria Falls airport (all in English, with additional persons).

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

PHEZULU GUEST LODGE 2 NIGHTS PACKAGE (DELUXE ROOM)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST AND 2 ACTIVITIES (OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE)

DAY 2: VICTORIA FALLS

CANOPY TOUR

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 75 € PER PERSON

Experience the Victoria Falls and the deep gorge of the Zambezi from a completely different perspective! A network of nine ziplines, hiking trails and a rope bridge leads you through the dense forest along the mighty gorge and to unique viewpoints of the Zambezi, the spray of the Victoria Falls and the imposing Victoria Falls Bridge.

You will be picked up at your accommodation for the activity and brought back after the tour. The tour lasts approx. 2.5 hours and the national park fee is included in the price. The tour language is English and other people take part in this activity.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 3 TO DAY 5 (APPROX. 260 KM):

NGOMA BRIDGE

You will receive your rental car on arrival at Kasane airport or at the agreed station. The north-east of Botswana offers great sights. The Chobe National Park and the proximity to the Victoria Falls have made Kasane a tourist hub. Chobe National Park is home to huge herds of elephants and an area full of scenic contrasts. Boat trips on the Chobe River are a must here! In the dry months from May to October, many animals, especially the large herds, gather along the river to quench their thirst or to bathe. During the rainy season, from November to April, when the water is also in the seasonal pans, the wild animals spread throughout the national park. This is a great time for birdwatchers, as many migratory birds can be seen at the water's edge alongside the local birds. In November and December, the young animals are born and with the onset of rain, the park blossoms with beautiful wildflowers. The lodges at Ngoma Bridge are not far from Kasane, but are situated in a region of the Chobe Park where there are only a few lodges. This part of the park is less frequented and therefore guarantees exclusive experiences.

Chobe Elephant Camp is situated high up on a cliff overlooking the famous Chobe River. The lodge was built exclusively from sandbags. The thick sand-filled walls form a natural insulation between the residents and the heat of the African sun and give the camp the atmosphere of an old farmhouse. (12 rooms: shower/WC, outdoor shower, veranda. Lodge: dining area, lounge, bar, boma, pool).

Included are local drinks, two activities per day (game drives, boat trips (for two or more nights), cultural excursions to the village), laundry service, park fees). All activities are conducted in English, with additional persons.

CHOBE ELEPHANT CAMP (CHALET)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND DRINKS AND 4 ACTIVITIES

DAY 3 TO DAY 5:

NGOMA BRIDGE

OPTIONALLY UPGRADEABLE FROM 670 € PER PERSON

The north-east of Botswana offers great sights. The Chobe National Park and its proximity to the Victoria Falls have made Kasane a tourist hub. Chobe National Park is home to huge herds of elephants and an area full of scenic contrasts. Boat trips on the Chobe River are a must here! In the dry months from May to October, many animals, especially the large herds, gather along the river to quench their thirst or to bathe. During the rainy season, from November to April, when the water is also in the seasonal pans, the wild animals spread out all over the park. This is a great time for birdwatchers, as many migratory birds can be seen at the water's edge alongside the resident birds. In November and December, the young animals are born and with the onset of rain, the park blossoms with beautiful wildflowers. The lodges at Ngoma Bridge are not far from Kasane, but are situated in a region of the Chobe National Park where there are only a few lodges. This part of the park has little traffic and therefore guarantees exclusive experiences.

Muchenje Safari Lodge is located at the western end of Chobe National Park and offers breathtaking panoramic views over the river and its floodplains. The intimate lodge not only offers fantastic views, but also excellent service in a family atmosphere. (11 chalets: shower/WC, air conditioning, fan, coffee/tea maker, fridge, safe, mosquito net, hairdryer, veranda. Lodge: dining area, lounge, bar, pool, viewing platform, souvenir store)

Included are local drinks, 2 activities per night (day & night game drives, walking safaris, boat trips, cultural excursions to the village), laundry service, park fees. All activities are conducted in English, with additional persons.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

MUCHENJE SAFARI LODGE (BUNGALOW)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND DRINKS AND 4 ACTIVITIES

DAY 5 TO DAY 6 (APPROX. 160 KM):

NATA

Nata is a transportation hub, as the roads from the north, west and south meet here. The Nata Bird Sanctuary is located here, a home to flamingos and pelicans (from January to October). The Makgadikgadi Pans are also easily accessible from here.

Elephant Sands Lodge is located about 50 km north of Nata, on the road to Kasane. The lodge is situated directly at a waterhole where elephants, wild dogs and lions can be seen. (Chalets: bathroom/WC, veranda, lodge: restaurant, pool)

ELEPHANT SANDS (CHALET)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

DAY 6 TO DAY 7 (APPROX. 210 KM):

GWETA

Gweta is surrounded by palm groves and is the gateway to the Makgadikgadi Pans, the largest salt pans on earth. A visit is one of the country's highlights, not least because of the bizarre (light) moods in the surreal, fantastic landscape. The wildlife is diverse in some regions, in other parts there are hardly any animals to be found. The bizarre baobabs and gnarled sterculia trees are striking natural features of this peculiar landscape. The salt pans themselves can only be visited in the dry season, usually between June and October. There is no sleep-out during the rainy season (November to May). During this time, you will spend the night at the lodge.

Please arrive at Planet Baobab around midday. Your excursion towards the Ntwetwe Pans starts from here in the early afternoon. You will drive the first section with your guide in an open off-road vehicle. Once you reach the edge of the pans, you change to the quad bike (2 people per bike). On the way, you will visit meerkats and can observe these cute animals at close range. The quad bike then takes you across the salt pans, where you reach your camp just in time for sunset. After a fantastic sunset, dinner is served around the fire. Enjoy the fantastic starry sky and the silence of the salt pan. The next morning, warm up with a cup of coffee or tea before heading back to the lodge where you will be served a hearty breakfast.

The tour is in English and is conducted with other people.

PLANET BAOBAB NTWETWE PAN OVERNIGHT TRIP (QUAD BIKES) (SLEEP OUT)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD AND 1 ACTIVITY

DAY 7 TO DAY 8:

MAUN

Maun lies on the south-eastern edge of the Okavango Basin and is considered a springboard for tours into the delta. Maun offers several restaurants and stores. There is a small museum to visit, as well as a small crocodile farm and the Education Park in the area. Day safaris and mokoro trips into the delta are also offered.

Nestled in one of the oldest gardens in Maun, just a stone's throw from the vibrant life of the Thamalakane River, Maun Studios offers a sanctuary for those seeking the perfect blend of style, comfort and a touch of wilderness. This accommodation is a gem in Maun, the three studio suites and the luxurious Meru Tent are spread across the property in the beautiful garden. The rooms are well equipped with decent wifi, en-suite shower and toilet and full kitchen facilities. The rooms are lovingly and tastefully decorated and spacious. The glass doors at the front of the Meru Tent give a beautiful view of the grounds and the river.
Breakfast is served on a decked / thatched area in the garden next to a small swimming pool and bar. There is a veranda with a cool breeze coming up from the river.

THE MAUN STUDIOS (GARDEN STUDIO)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 8: MAUN

FLIGHT MAUN - KHWAI

Charter light aircraft are a popular way to travel to inaccessible areas of southern Africa.

Please note that light aircraft only allow soft bags with a maximum of 20 kg of luggage per passenger (hand luggage included). Suitcases or trolleys cannot be taken on board. Passengers weighing over 110 kg must book a second seat.

Please return your rental car at the latest two hours before departure at the airport in Maun or at the agreed station.

DAY 8 TO DAY 11:

KHWAI

Khwai is famous for its high density of big game, so it is not uncommon for various wild animals to be spotted from the camp's own terraces. Elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards, cheetahs and even the extremely rare African wild dogs are not uncommon. The Khwai River forms the natural border between the world-famous Moremi Game Reserve and the Khwai Concession, with the animals roaming freely in this unfenced wilderness.
The best time to visit the Khwai is from May to October, it is the dry season and the temperatures are pleasant. From May onwards, the water is usually high enough for mokoro tours. The water-rich delta attracts many animals at this time of year, which frequent the waterholes from August to October. From November onwards, it is no longer possible to offer boat tours in some regions due to the water level. Depending on the region, there may also be fewer sightings of animals. The onset of rainfall "awakens" people and animals and makes the hot months special due to the rainfall and dramatic cloud formations.

The Khwai Guesthouse is a simple accommodation in the traditional village of Khwai, on the edge of the Moremi National Park. The guesthouse combines African flair with a stylish and modern touch. It is a wonderful place to relax, but also for exciting game viewing. (6 bungalows: WC, outdoor shower, fan, safe, small terrace. Camp: dining area, bar, lounge)

The price includes two activities per night (game drives in the Moremi Game Reserve or the Khwai Concession, mokoro trips, night drives and cultural excursions to the Khwai community). All activities are conducted in English, with additional persons.

KHWAI GUESTHOUSE (STANDARD ROOM)

3X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND 6 ACTIVITIES

DAY 8 TO DAY 11:

KHWAI

OPTIONALLY UPGRADEABLE FROM 930 € PER PERSON

Khwai is famous for its high density of big game, so it is not uncommon for various wild animals to be spotted from the camp's own terraces. Elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards, cheetahs and even the extremely rare African wild dogs are not uncommon. The Khwai River forms the natural border between the world-famous Moremi Game Reserve and the Khwai Concession, with the animals roaming freely in this unfenced wilderness.
The best time to visit the Khwai is from May to October, it is the dry season and the temperatures are pleasant. From May onwards, the water is usually high enough for mokoro tours. The water-rich delta attracts many animals at this time of year, which frequent the waterholes from August to October. From November onwards, it is no longer possible to offer boat tours in some regions due to the water level. Depending on the region, there may also be fewer sightings of animals. The onset of rainfall "awakens" people and animals and makes the hot months special due to the rainfall and dramatic cloud formations.

Sango Safari Camp is gently nestled in the shade of large trees on the banks of the Khwai River. Situated on the edge of the traditional village of Khwai and bordering the Moremi Game Reserve, the camp is the ideal base from which to explore the culture and wildlife of this unique habitat. (6 Meru tents: WC, outdoor shower, small terrace. Camp: dining area, lounge, bar, viewing platform, pool).

The price includes two activities per night (day and night game drives, village tour, mokoro trips), local drinks, national park entrance fees).

All activities are in English, carried out with other people.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

SANGO SAFARI CAMP (STANDARD TENT)

3X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND DRINKS AND 6 ACTIVITIES

DAY 11: KHWAI

FLIGHT KHWAI - LOWER DELTA

Charter light aircraft are a popular way to travel to inaccessible areas of southern Africa.

Please note that light aircraft only allow soft bags with a maximum of 20 kg of luggage per passenger (hand luggage included). Suitcases or trolleys cannot be taken on board. Passengers weighing over 110 kg must book a second seat.

DAY 11 TO DAY 13:

OKAVANGO DELTA

At 1600 km long, the Okavango is the third largest river in southern Africa and is one of the most remarkable rivers in the world. Its special feature: this mighty river does not find a way into the sea, but pours into the sandy Kalahari and exhausts itself there, forming the largest inland delta in the world! Many species that depend on the water migrate during the dry season when the delta is at its peak.
The best time to visit the Okavango Delta is from May to October, it is the dry season and the temperatures are pleasant. From May onwards, the water is usually high enough for mokoro tours. The water-rich delta attracts many animals at this time of year, which visit the waterholes from August to October. From November onwards, it is no longer possible to offer boat tours in some regions due to the water level. Depending on the region, there may also be fewer sightings of animals. The onset of rainfall "awakens" people and animals and makes the hot months special due to the rainfall and dramatic cloud formations.

Setari Camp is located in the north of the Okavango Delta. The camp is situated on an island and can be reached from Maun by a 35-minute charter flight. (10 tents: bathroom/WC, mosquito net, balcony/veranda, fan, outdoor shower. Camp: dining area, pool, lounge, bar, viewing platform)

The price includes two activities per night (boat tours, mokoro trips or walking safaris), local drinks, laundry service and national park entrance fees.

All activities are in English, carried out with other people.

SETARI CAMP (STANDARD ROOM)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND DRINKS AND 4 ACTIVITIES

DAY 11 TO DAY 13:

OKAVANGO DELTA

OPTIONALLY UPGRADEABLE FROM 360 € PER PERSON

At 1600 km long, the Okavango is the third largest river in southern Africa and is one of the most remarkable rivers in the world. Its special feature: this mighty river does not find a way into the sea, but pours into the sandy Kalahari and exhausts itself there, forming the largest inland delta in the world! Many species that depend on the water migrate during the dry season when the delta is at its peak.
The best time to visit the Okavango Delta is from May to October, it is the dry season and the temperatures are pleasant. From May onwards, the water is usually high enough for mokoro tours. The water-rich delta attracts many animals at this time of year, which visit the waterholes from August to October. From November onwards, it is no longer possible to offer boat tours in some regions due to the water level. Depending on the region, there may also be fewer sightings of animals. The onset of rainfall "awakens" people and animals and makes the hot months special due to the rainfall and dramatic cloud formations.

Cha Cha Metsi Camp is situated on the banks of the Okavango in the Okavango Delta. Observe the variety of wildlife and enjoy the impressive landscape around the camp. (6 Meru tents: bathroom/WC, veranda. Camp: lounge, dining area, boma)

The price includes two activities per night (game drives in open off-road vehicles, mokoro tours, walking safari, riding safari (for a fee), meals and local drinks.

All activities are in English, carried out with other people.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

CHA CHA METSI CAMP (STANDARD TENT)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND DRINKS AND 4 ACTIVITIES

DAY 13: OKAVANGO DELTA

MEDICAL ASSISTANCE

Okavango Air Rescue, or OAR for short, is an emergency rescue organization in northern Botswana that has been active since 15 October 2012 and is the first air rescue service in Botswana. Inspired by the Swiss REGA model, OAR was set up in Botswana by entrepreneur Christian Gross and German doctor Misha Kruck.
The red Okavango Air Rescue helicopter has been flying over Botswana for several years now. It is stationed in Maun and a team of doctors manning the helicopter provide first aid and offer all members air rescue in medical emergencies for a small annual fee of EUR 18. Membership is not continuous and ends after one year. OAR is a great organization and worth supporting - even if you probably and hopefully won't personally get to "enjoy" an emergency rescue. OAR takes care of the initial treatment and transportation and everything else is then covered by the travel health insurance, because most tourists have international travel insurance - but they are not aware that before the rescue flight to the hospital or even to the home country, the rescue from the bush or the delta is the most complicated and difficult part of the whole operation.

DAY 13: OKAVANGO DELTA

FLIGHT OKAVANGO DELTA - MAUN

Charter light aircraft are a popular way to travel to inaccessible areas of southern Africa.

Please note that light aircraft only allow soft bags with a maximum of 20 kg of luggage per passenger (hand luggage included). Suitcases or trolleys cannot be taken on board. Passengers weighing over 110 kg must book a second seat.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THIS TRIP

All prices quoted are subject to availability before booking. Errors excepted. Alternative availability, seasonal overlaps or exchange rate fluctuations may lead to price changes. Please request your personal tour offer with your desired travel dates. This tour offer does not include flights.

The child rate applies to one child under the age of 12 staying in their parents' room. One child under the age of two stays free of charge. For children aged 12 and over, the adult rate generally applies. Not all accommodation allows children of all ages.

We recommend that you take out travel cancellation insurance and travel health insurance to cover the costs of assistance, including repatriation in the event of accident, illness or death. We can provide a corresponding offer on request.

A passport is required to enter the country. Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a visa in advance. Minors under the age of 18 may need to carry additional documents. We will inform you of the exact requirements before you book. Travelers who have stayed in an area at risk of yellow fever must provide proof of a yellow fever vaccination.

This trip is not suitable for people with reduced mobility. Please ask for suitable offers.

Chobe National Park, the Okavango Delta and Victoria Falls are malaria-prone areas. Please ask your doctor whether prophylaxis is advisable for you.

The organizer of this trip is South Africa Travel GmbH & Co. KG, Buddestraße 9, 33602 Bielefeld, Germany, Tel +49 521 33676880.

Left-hand traffic prevails on the roads of southern Africa.

CAR RENTAL CONDITIONS FROM AVIS

The following services are included in the price: unlimited free mileage, accident/theft insurance without excess (incl. tires, hubcaps, windscreen, water, sand and underbody damage), liability insurance up to 2,000,000 BWP, passenger insurance, one additional driver, local taxes and fees.

Not included (payable locally): Petrol, tolls, security deposit, contract fee (BWP 79 per rental), national one-way fee (BWP 1450 per rental), handling fee for claims other than accident/theft (BWP 675), traffic fines plus BWP 295 handling fee, additional additional driver (BWP 335 per rental), child seat (BWP 350 per rental per seat), hotel delivery or pick-up on request for a fee.

The deposit is paid by credit card and will not be charged if the vehicle is returned with a full tank.

Costs payable locally in BWP are set by AVIS Botswana and are subject to change without notice.

AVIS Botswana reserves the right to provide models of equal or higher value. The rental car mentioned is only an example of the confirmed vehicle class.

You will need your credit card, your international driver's license and your passport to rent a vehicle. Each driver must have held a driver's license for at least two years.

This is an excerpt from the AVIS Botswana car rental conditions, which you will receive when booking, or in advance if you wish. On site, you will conclude a contract in English for the use of the rental car.

APPROXIMATE ADDITIONAL COSTS THAT ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

Long-haul flights to Southern Africa in Economy Class cost from EUR 900, while prices can be well over EUR 1000 in the high season. Flights in Premium Economy Class are available from 1500 EUR, in Business Class flights cost from 2500 EUR (per person for outward and return flights). All prices are average values depending on the airline and season. The actual prices at a given time depend on the number of bookings and may vary. Early booking is recommended, especially in the high season.

A light lunch costs around EUR 7 (small salad, soup) to EUR 13 (pizza, pasta, burger) per person, a dinner around EUR 17 (pizza, pasta, burger, large salad) to EUR 24 (steak, fish) to EUR 29 (three-course meal) per person. Coffee, tea, beer or soft drinks cost around EUR 2.80 per cup or glass. Prices may vary upwards or downwards depending on the region or type of restaurant.

A liter of fuel (petrol or diesel) costs around EUR 1. Allow around EUR 91 for fuel for this trip.

Entrance fees to national parks cost between EUR 5 and EUR 25 per person per day, depending on the size and popularity of the park. Entrance fees to museums or other attractions cost between EUR 3 and EUR 20 per person. Children under the age of 12 usually pay half price.