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
• 2x Makgadikgadi Pans
• 1x Maun
• 2x Khwai
• 2x Okavango Delta

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• 10x overnight stay in the Superior category ****
• 10x breakfast, 8x lunch, 9x dinner
• 1x rental car class I (Toyota Fortuner 4×4 Automatic or similar)
• Activities Chobe National Park
• Activities Makgadikgadi-Nxai Pans National Park
• 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.

The luxurious Ilala Lodge is just a ten-minute walk from the spectacular Victoria Falls. The town center of Victoria Falls, with its restaurants and numerous souvenir stores, is also just a few minutes' walk away. From many points of the lodge you can admire the spray of the falls. The lush garden of the lodge is occasionally visited by antelopes for a snack. The 73 rooms are equipped with bath/WC, air conditioning, fan, TV, coffee/tea station, hairdryer, safe, balcony or terrace. The lodge also offers a restaurant, a bar, a terrace with a view of the park and a pool.

Included are the transfer from Kasane, a guided tour to the falls, a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River and the transfer to Victoria Falls airport (all in English, with additional persons).

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

ILALA LODGE 2 NIGHTS PACKAGE (STANDARD ROOM )

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD AND 2 ACTIVITIES (OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE)

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 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.

MUCHENJE SAFARI LODGE (BUNGALOW)

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

DAY 3 TO DAY 5:

NGOMA BRIDGE

OPTIONALLY UPGRADEABLE FROM 990 € 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 throughout the national park. This is a great time for birdwatchers, as many migratory birds are also found 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 National Park where there are only a few lodges. This part of the park has little traffic and therefore guarantees exclusive experiences.

Ngoma Safari Lodge is located in the north of Botswana in the Chobe Game Reserve on the western border of Chobe Park and offers a wonderful view of the Chobe River. Each suite has a spectacular view of the river and, with a little luck, the famous elephants, zebras or buffalos can be observed from the room, which graze on the floodplains of the river depending on the season. (8 suites: Shower/WC, outside showers, fan, air conditioning, minibar, coffee kitchen, small private pool. Lodge: dining area, lounge, bar, pool, sun deck, viewing platform, souvenir store).

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

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

NGOMA SAFARI LODGE (SUITE)

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 8 (APPROX. 210 KM):

MAKGADIKGADI PANS

The Makgadikgadi Pans cover an area the size of Belgium, making them the largest salt pans in the world. This sparsely vegetated area radiates an unconventional hostility to life, but is nevertheless home to a fascinating animal world. 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 during the dry season, usually between June and October.

Camp Kalahari impresses with its simple luxury and offers a throwback to the traditional safari style of the old explorers. As there is no electricity, kerosene lamps light up the camp in the dark and take you back in time. The camp is situated between acacia trees and the Mokolwane palms of Brown Hyena Island, on the edge of the Makgadikgadi salt pans. (10 tents: WC and shower walled in - but not covered, veranda. Camp: dining area, lounge, boma, pool, library.

The price includes transfers from/to Planet Baobab, local drinks, two activities per night (game drives, Bushmen Walks, Chapman's Baobab & visits to the meerkats, quad biking (activities weather dependent), laundry service, national park entrance fees). All activities are in English, with additional persons.

CAMP KALAHARI 2 NIGHTS TRANSFER PACKAGE GWETA (MERU TENT)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND 4 ACTIVITIES

DAY 8 TO DAY 9:

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.

Thamalakane River Lodge is beautifully situated about 19km north of Maun. The peaceful location invites you to relax by the pool and on the private terraces, from where you can enjoy the many different bird species and spectacular sunsets. (18 chalets: bath/WC, tea/coffee maker, TV, fan, mosquito net, terrace. Lodge: pool, restaurant, garden)

THAMALAKANE RIVER LODGE (BABBLER CHALET)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 9: 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 9 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.

Khwai Lediba Camp, an opulent tented safari retreat on the river. Situated on the edge of the traditional village of Khwai and bordering the Moremi Game Reserve, the camp is the ideal base for exploring the culture and abundance of game in this unique and wildlife-rich habitat. (6 chalets: WC/shower, private deck, fan, mosquito net. Camp: dining area, lounge, plunge pool).

The price includes two activities per night (day and night game drives, walking safaris, mokoro trips), local drinks, national park entrance fees (English-speaking, with additional persons).

KHWAI LEDIBA (STANDARD ROOM)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND 4 ACTIVITIES

DAY 9 TO DAY 11:

KHWAI

OPTIONAL UPGRADE FROM 5 € 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.

Khwai Leadwood Camp is situated 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 tents: WC/shower, deck with loungers, outdoor shower. Camp: dining area, lounge, pool)

The price includes two activities per night (day and night game drives, walking safaris), local drinks, national park entrance fees (English-speaking, with additional persons).

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

KHWAI LEADWOOD CAMP (STANDARD ROOM)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND 4 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.

Pom Pom is one of the most traditional camps in the heart of the delta. The camp is situated on the Xudum River in a private concession adjacent to the Moremi Game Reserve. (9 Meru tents: WC, outdoor shower, veranda overlooking the lagoon. Lodge: lounge, dining area, boma, pool)

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

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

POM POM (STANDARD TENT)

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

DAY 11 TO DAY 13:

OKAVANGO DELTA

OPTIONALLY UPGRADEABLE FROM 800 € 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.

Kiri Camp is brand new and opened in June 2022. It is located in a private concession on the Kiri River. The camp was built on wooden decks, giving you a great view of the region. Activities take place in remote areas of the delta that were previously inaccessible. The region is also known for its interactions with lion and buffalo, as well as the rare African wild dog, which can be seen here with a bit of luck. (10 chalets: WC/bathroom, lounge, private deck with view. Camp: dining area, lounge, plunge pool).

The price includes two activities per overnight stay (day and night game drives, walking safaris, mokoro trips and boat trips (depending on water level)), local drinks, national park entrance fees, all activities are in English, with additional persons.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

KIRI CAMP (LUXURY 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.