Botswana Intensive

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, the Okavango Delta, the Central Kalahari, the Makgadikgadi salt pans and Chobe National Park are the right places for you. Optionally, an extension to Victoria Falls can be booked, transfers and activities included (in this case, the tour would not start at Kasane airport, but at Victoria Falls airport). This tour requires 4×4 experience. 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.

OVERNIGHT STATIONS

• 2x Ngoma Bridge
• 1x Nata
• 2x Nxai Pan
• 2x Makgadikgadi Pans National Park
• 2x Central Kalahari
• 1x Maun
• 3x Okavango Delta

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• 13x overnight stay in the Superior category ****
• 13x breakfast, 11x lunch, 12x dinner
• 1x rental car class I (Toyota Fortuner 4×4 Automatic or similar)
• Activities Chobe National Park
• Activities Nxai Pan
• Activities Makgadikgadi National Park
• Guided activities in the Central Kalahari
• 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. 380 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, two activities per night (day and night game drives, walking safaris, boat trips, cultural excursions to the village), laundry service and national 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 (APPROX. 380 KM):

NGOMA BRIDGE

OPTIONALLY UPGRADEABLE FROM 225 € 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 National 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 Chobe elephants, zebras or buffaloes 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).

The price includes local drinks, two activities per night (day and night game drives, walking safaris, boat trips, cultural excursions to the village), laundry service, transfers from/to Kasane and national park fees. All activities are conducted 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. 210 KM):

NATA

Nata is a transportation hub, as this is where the roads from the north, west and south meet. Here is the Nata Bird Sanctuary, a home to about 165 different bird species during the time when the rainwater is on the pans (from January to September). In the rainy season from January to June, a four-wheel drive vehicle is required to visit the sanctuary).

Nata Lodge is located on the northern edge of Sua Pan and is an oasis under palm trees. (32 chalets and tents: bathroom/WC, air conditioning/heating, veranda, coffee/tea making facilities, hairdryer. The chalets also have an outdoor shower. Lodge: restaurant, bar, lounge, pool, store)

NATA LODGE (LUXURY CHALET)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

DAY 6 TO DAY 8 (APPROX. 120 KM):

NXAI PAN

The Nxai Pan National Park was established together with the Makgadikgadi Pans Game Reserve in the early 1970s. A highlight of the Naxoi Pan Sector is a collection of 7 baobab trees. They were made famous by the famous painter and explorer Thomas Baines, who painted them on one of his travels in 1862 and after whom they are named. The Nxai Pan is also known for its large herds of springbok and gemsbok. After the summer rains begin between November and March, thousands of zebra and wildebeest migrate to Nxai Pan. Naturally, such large herds of animals also attract big cats. White rhino, Livingstone's eland, kudu and hartebeest are also occasionally spotted in the area.

Nxai Pan Camp offers a 180 degree view of the vast savannah landscape and from the sun deck you can look out over a waterhole. The guest accommodations can be reached via elevated wooden walkways, which also offer a wonderful panorama. Due to the dense vegetation, the individual accommodations offer plenty of privacy. (8 safari tents: WC/shower, veranda. Camp: dining area, lounge, sun deck, library and pool).

Included in the price: game drives, meals, drinks, laundry service. All activities are conducted in English, with additional persons.

NXAI PAN CAMP (STANDARD ROOM)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND 4 ACTIVITIES

DAY 8 TO DAY 10 (APPROX. 200 KM):

MAKGADIKGADI PANS NATIONAL PARK

The Makgadikgadi Pans National Park is part of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans. This wildlife paradise is situated on the Boteti River. The Boteti River is a wide offshoot of the Okavango Delta and seeps into the deep sands of the Kalahari. Large parts of the river had dried up since 1995 and the river has only been carrying water again since 2009, thanks to the high water level of the Okavango Delta.
The national park is home to over 30,000 zebras and wildebeest, and during the migration period from June to November, a particularly large number of these animals can be found on the banks of the river.

Meno A Kwena, which means "tooth of the crocodile", is situated on the border of the Makgadikgadi Pan National Park, above the Boteti River. The rustic camp is simply furnished, but with great attention to detail. (10 safari tents: WC/shower, fan, mosquito net, veranda overlooking the river. Camp: dining area, bar, lounge, covered seating area on the edge of the cliff with breathtaking views of the Boteti River.

The price includes local drinks, two activities per overnight stay (walks with Bushmen, game drives, boat trips (short trips on the Boteti, depending on the water level), game viewing from a floating raft/hiding place), laundry service, national park entrance fees. All activities are conducted in English, with additional persons.

MENO A KWENA (CANVAS TENT)

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

DAY 10 TO DAY 12 (APPROX. 180 KM):

CENTRAL KALAHARI

The Central Kalahari Game Reserve is the largest game reserve in Botswana, covering an area of 52 800 square kilometers. In this basin, formed by Karoo sediments and drifting sand, there are many acacia groves. A visit to the area in the rainy season - from November to April, depending on the highly unreliable rains - is beautiful; everything is green and lush and baby antelope leap among wildflowers, while the migratory birds that spend the summer here chirp happily. In the dry season, visibility is better as the vegetation appears more open, making it easier to spot predators and other animals.

Deception Valley Lodge is individually built on platforms connected by walkways. Dinners are taken in the open-air boma, where you can listen to a veritable serenade of the African night while eating.
(8 studios: bath/WC, outdoor shower, lounge, mosquito net, fan. Lodge: boma, pool). Included: Activities (day and night game drives in the private reserve, bird watching, guided walks accompanied by an experienced guide (English-speaking, with additional persons) and meetings with the SAN, meals, local drinks, laundry service, park fees).

DECEPTION VALLEY LODGE (STANDARD ROOM )

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

DAY 12 TO DAY 13 (APPROX. 20 KM):

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 13: MAUN

FLIGHT MAUN - UPPER 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.

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

DAY 13 TO DAY 16:

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)

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

DAY 13 TO DAY 16:

OKAVANGO DELTA

OPTIONALLY UPGRADEABLE FROM 565 € 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.

Splash Camp is situated in the heart of the Okavango Delta in the private Kwara Reserve on the northern border of the Moreni Game Reserve. It offers a relaxed, friendly and authentic atmosphere. From the terrace of the individual safari tents you can enjoy a great view. Splash is known for offering special delta experiences and a wide range of activities all year round. (12 safari tents: en-suite bathroom, outdoor shower and veranda. Camp: dining area, bar, lounge, pool, souvenir store)

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

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

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

SPLASH CAMP (STANDARD ROOM)

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

DAY 13 TO DAY 16:

OKAVANGO DELTA

OPTIONALLY UPGRADEABLE FROM 1.945 € 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 night (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, carried out with other people.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

KIRI CAMP (LUXURY TENT)

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

DAY 16: 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 16: 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 about 1 EUR. Calculate about 160 EUR 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.