Southern Circle

ABOUT THIS TRIP

Southern Africa is full of adventure. Experience the absolute highlights of Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe in 30 days: the colonial town of Windhoek, the red and gold Kalahari, the great dunes of Sossusvlei, the enchanting coastal town of Swakopmund, the mysterious Damaraland, the arid Etosha Pan, the evergreen Caprivi Strip, the wildlife-rich Chobe and Hwange National Parks, the breathtaking Victoria Falls, the scenic Matobo National Park, the endless Makgadikgadi salt pans and the impressive Okavango Delta. Changes to the tour itinerary are possible at any point. We will be happy to send you a personalized tour offer and advise you on possible upgrades or optional activities such as a hot-air balloon ride over Sossusvlei or a helicopter flight over Victoria Falls. A surcharge applies over Christmas/New Year's Eve.

OVERNIGHT STATIONS

• 1x Windhoek
• 1x lime edge
• 2x Sesriem
• 2x Swakopmund
• 2x Omaruru
• 2x Etosha Anderson Gate
• 1x Rundu
• 2x Sangwali
• 2x Ngoma Bridge
• 2x Victoria Falls
• 2x Hwange
• 2x Matobo
• 1x Nata
• 1x Gweta
• 1x Maun
• 3x Khwai
• 1x Maun
• 1x Gobabis

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• 29x overnight stay in the Comfort ***/**** category
• 29x breakfast, 9x lunch, 18x dinner
• 1x rental car class BS (Toyota Urban Cruiser Automatic or similar)
• Activities Chobe National Park
• Game drives Hwange National Park
• Excursion Ntwetwe Pan incl. sleep out, meerkat tour
• Activities Khwai Concession (northern 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: WINDHOEK

MEET & GREET

On arrival at Windhoek airport or at the agreed station, you will receive your rental car. A member of staff from our partner in Namibia will meet you at your accommodation in Windhoek to discuss the tour with you and give you valuable and up-to-date travel tips. You will receive further information with your travel documents.

You will also receive a 24-hour emergency telephone number where our German-speaking staff are available around the clock.

SA Travel supports the TOSCO Clean Travel project with 320NAD per person. Clean Travel uses the proceeds to plant indigenous trees in schools and local communities according to the permaculture principle.

DAY 1 TO DAY 2 (APPROX. 50 KM):

WINDHOEK

Welcome to the capital. Windhoek is the economic and political center of Namibia. The city is situated in the Windhoek Basin, the approximate geographical center of the country, bordered by the Eros Mountains in the east, the Auas Mountains in the south and the Khomas Highlands in the west. The name Windhoek is Afrikaans and is derived from "windy corner".
The colonial past and the influence of the German language and culture can be felt in many areas. Worth seeing are the monumental Supreme Court building, the Namibian National Museum in the "Alte Feste", the Christuskirche, the "Tintenpalast" parliament building and much more.

Maison Ambre Guesthouse is situated on the eastern slopes of Luxury Hill and is only 2 km from Windhoek's city center. The guesthouse offers a relaxing stay surrounded by green gardens
Relax on the terrace and by the pool. (5 rooms: bath/WC, air conditioning, fan, safe, heating, fridge, radio, TV, hairdryer. Guesthouse: pool, bar, lounge)

MAISON AMBRE GUESTHOUSE (STANDARD ROOM)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 2 TO DAY 3 (APPROX. 200 KM):

KALKRAND

In the south of the Tropic of Capricorn lies the Kalahari Desert, also known as the Kgalagadi. You will soon be able to see the reddish glow of the Kalahari Desert in the distance. Here, the green acacias and yellow grass stand in stark contrast to the blue sky and the red sand dunes of the Kalahari Desert, which stretch for hundreds of kilometers. The Kalahari shows its true beauty in the light of the setting sun, when it transforms the red sand into a shimmering fire and oryx antelopes or giraffes warm themselves in the last rays of the sun. The Kgalagdi is also a very special experience in the rainy season, when a green carpet emerges from the dried grass.

Intu Afrika Camelthorn Lodge is situated in a magnificent panoramic landscape of open grass plains, acacia woodlands and red sand dunes about 70km from Mariental. The main building of the rustic lodge blends into the landscape. Discover the Kalahari Desert in an open off-road vehicle, on a quad bike tour or follow in the footsteps of the Bushmen on a guided hike (for a fee, English-speaking, with additional persons). (12 rooms: bath/WC, air conditioning, coffee and tea making facilities. Hotel: pool, restaurant, boma, bar)

INTU AFRICA CAMELTHORN LODGE (STANDARD ROOM)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

DAY 3 TO DAY 5 (APPROX. 310 KM):

SESRIEM

The star dunes of the vlei, which reach a height of up to 300 meters, are among the highest sand mountains in the world. The sun's rays create an indescribable play of colors on the sand of the dunes, especially in the early morning. The dead, almost 500-year-old trees in Dead Vlei, which is a sandy clay and salt pan adjacent to Sossusvlei that no longer receives any water, are bizarre. Dead Vlei is reached after a strenuous walk through the dunes. If you have a 4×4 vehicle, you can drive to the dunes yourself; with a "normal" car, you have to change to a shuttle vehicle at the end. Alternatively, the lodges offer guided drives into Sossusvlei. Another attraction in the park is the Sesriem Canyon, which is located at the entrance to the Sossusvlei dune area and can be explored on foot.

You spend the night at Desert Camp. It is located around 5 kilometers from the entrance to Sossusvlei and therefore offers you a short distance to Namibia's colourful dune world. The view of the vastness and the surrounding mountains from your chalet is impressive. Meals can be taken at Sossusvlei Lodge, 5 kilometers away. Alternatively, you have the option of having a barbecue box or dinner delivered. The lodge's activity center also offers numerous activities and excursions for a fee (English-speaking and with other participants). (28 safari chalets: bath/WC, air conditioning, barbecue, terrace, kitchenette, fridge. Camp: bar, pool, WiFi)

DESERT CAMP (SAFARI CHALET)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 5 TO DAY 7 (APPROX. 350 KM):

SWAKOPMUND

Your destination is Swakopmund, located north of the mouth of the Swakop River on the Atlantic Ocean. The town was once the gateway to German South West Africa and the most important port at the time. Today, Swakopmund is an important recreational and vacation center, rich in beautiful colonial architecture. Swakopmund can easily be discovered on foot, visit the Woermannhaus, the landing stage, the lighthouse, the old district court, the railroad station or the Swakopmund Museum.
There is also a lot to discover outside the town, such as desert tours or boat trips in Walvis Bay. Those who prefer more action can also go skydiving, quad biking or sandboarding.

Meike's guest house is centrally located in the old town center of Swakopmund. All sights are within easy walking distance. Despite its proximity to the center, the stylish guest house offers peace and seclusion and invites you to feel at home. (7 rooms: bath/WC, TV, fridge, tea and coffee making facilities, hairdryer, terrace. Guest house: garden).

MEIKES GUESTHOUSE (STANDARD ROOM)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 7 TO DAY 9 (APPROX. 330 KM):

OMARURU

Omaruru is situated on the north-eastern edge of the Erongo Mountains, which invites you to hike and explore with its fascinating rock formations, caves and rock paintings. Countless animal and bird species also await you. The rock formations are particularly beautiful at sunrise and sunset, when the sun transforms everything into glowing colors. The history of Omaruru is closely linked to the history of the West Herero. Later, German settlers also became interested in this region and established farms, which are now run as guest farms for tourists. The town itself is considered the Namibian center of viticulture and two wineries invite you to visit. There is also a chocolate factory and numerous artists who can be seen at work in their workshops.

The Otjohotozu guest farm is located about 15 kilometers east of Omaruru. The hosts and owners run the farm in a loving and informal manner. Virtually no wish remains unfulfilled here. At this "place of tranquillity" you can enjoy wonderful farm food and completely relax or take part in excursions. Game drives, hikes, tours to rock paintings or even sundowner drives are offered. All activities are in English, with additional people. (5 farm rooms: bath/WC, fan. Farm: dining room, bar, garden, terrace, pool)

OTJOHOTOZU GUEST FARM (TOWER ROOM)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

DAY 7 TO DAY 9 (APPROX. 330 KM):

TWYFELFONTEIN

OPTIONALLY UPGRADEABLE FROM 85 € PER PERSON

Twyfelfontein is located in Damaraland, an often untouched and very hot (semi-)desert landscape. The ancient rock carvings depicted here were made by the Bushmen. The engravings are located on a series of smooth rock slabs and mostly depict hunting scenes and animals. They were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007. Also worth a visit nearby are the so-called Organ Pipes and the Burnt Mountain as well as the Living Museum of the Damara and the Petrified Forest, which is around 55 kilometers away. An animal highlight of Damaraland are the desert elephants, which roam an area between the dry rivers of the Ugab and the Huab. With a bit of luck, you may spot the animals during a guided game drive.

Twyfelfontein Adventure Camp is idyllically situated in the Huab River Valley in Damaraland between large rocky hills. The open-plan main building of the lodge is made of wood and canvas and blends harmoniously into the rocky surroundings, exuding a cozy and rustic charm and offering space for a restaurant, a bar, various seating options and a covered terrace with a sun deck. There is also a pool here, which is ideal for cooling off on hot days.
There are a total of twelve simply furnished safari tents, which stand on raised wooden platforms. They have an en-suite bathroom with toilet and shower and a safe. There is also a covered terrace in front of each chalet, which invites you to linger. (Camp: bar, panoramic terrace, pool, restaurant, lounge, WiFi. 12 chalet: bathroom, WC, terrace, safe).

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

TWYFELFONTEIN ADVENTURE CAMP (STANDARD TENT)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

DAY 9 TO DAY 11 (APPROX. 210 KM):

ETOSHA ANDERSON GATE

The center of Etosha National Park, a huge encrusted salt pan, is undoubtedly impressive and can even be seen from space. The white area, as it was also called by the Bushmen, is surrounded by savannahs, bush and shrub forests, and in the west mountains rise up from the otherwise flat park. The numerous waterholes, some of which are artificial, are home to wild animals, especially during the long dry season. During the rainy season, water collects in the pan and the flamingos settle here to breed. The national park is home to an enormous variety of large and small animals. It is home to four of the Big Five (lion, rhino, elephant and leopard), as well as over 100 other mammal species and over 400 bird species and numerous reptiles and amphibians.
You can explore the Etosha National Park on your own in a rental car or on a guided safari.

Vreugde Guest Farm is a small and family-friendly accommodation about 30 minutes from the Anderson Gate of Etosha National Park. The rustic rooms are situated in the beautiful and green garden. Experience authentic farm life, sociable family connection and delicious meals from the local cuisine. Farm tours, hikes on the farm or game drives in the Etosha National Park (for a fee in English and with additional persons) are offered. Let yourself be pampered by the personal and warm-hearted service of the owners. (7 rooms: bath/WC, terrace, hotel: garden, lapa, pool, boma, WiFi).

VREUGDE GUEST FARM (STANDARD ROOM)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

DAY 11 TO DAY 12 (APPROX. 630 KM):

RUNDU

You drive to Rundu. The town is situated at 1,095 m above sea level on a scenic hill on the south bank of the Okavango in the otherwise flat northern Kalahari basin. For 400 km, the Okavango forms the border between the Republic of Angola to the north and Namibia. The river provides the Zambezi region with the spectacular Popa Falls and is a lifeline for the Kavango people, who live from fishing and farming. There is a border crossing across the river and a ferry connection to the town of Calai on the Angolan side.

You will spend the night at the idyllic Hakusembe River Lodge west of Rundu. The chalets are spread out in the lodge's fairytale garden and find shelter under large acacia trees. With a view of the river, you can find peace and quiet here in harmony with nature. You have the opportunity to take part in various activities such as a sunset boat trip or fishing for a fee (English-speaking and with other participants, depending on the water level). (20 chalets: bathroom/WC, air conditioning, heating, safe, veranda, tea and coffee station. Lodge: restaurant, bar, pool, garden, terrace with view, WLAN).

HAKUSEMBE LODGE (BUNGALOW)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 12 TO DAY 14 (APPROX. 430 KM):

KONGOLA

The country does not end in the far north of Namibia. The Caprivi Strip or Caprivi Strip stretches as far as the Victoria Falls in the east and the Chobe National Park in Botswana to the south. In terms of landscape, the Caprivi differs significantly from the rest of the country and forms the most important waterways in Southern Africa - the Okavango, Kwando and Zambezi, all of which have their source in Angola. The Caprivi Strip is very lively and African with many small peoples, water, agriculture, livestock farming and wild animals

Nkasa Lupala Tented Lodge is located in the Wuparo Game Reserve, not far from Mamili National Park in the middle of the bush. There are no fences here, which allows the animals to move freely. The lodge is built on wooden platforms and you have a fantastic view of the river. With a bit of luck, you can also make exciting animal observations from the tents and enjoy the peace and sounds of nature. Game drives, river safaris, walking safaris and night game drives are offered for a fee (English-speaking and with other participants). (10 tents: bath/WC, mosquito net, veranda. Lodge: restaurant, viewing deck, WLAN, pool)

The price includes the transfer to the lodge and back and one activity per overnight stay.

CAMP KWANDO (TREE HOUSE CHALET)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

DAY 14 TO DAY 16 (APPROX. 200 KM):

NGOMA BRIDGE

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.

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).
The price includes local drinks, two activities per night (game drives, boat trips (for two or more nights), cultural excursions to the village), laundry service, national 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 16 TO DAY 18 (APPROX. 150 KM):

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)

PHEZULU GUEST LODGE (DELUXE ROOM)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 18 TO DAY 20 (APPROX. 180 KM):

HWANGE

The almost 15,000 km² Hwange National Park is located in the foothills of the Kalahari and is the most important nature reserve in Zimbabwe. The park's dense animal population includes over 40,000 elephants, 17,000 buffaloes, 6,000 impalas, 5,000 other antelopes and kudus, as well as 3,000 giraffes. Cheetahs, leopards, wild dogs, lions, waterbucks and many other animals of southern Africa are also at home here. The whole area is an almost flat savannah, with few natural waterholes and sparse vegetation, especially in the west. The best time for good game viewing is the dry season in winter from May to October.

The rustic Ivory Lodge is located in a private concession right next to Hwange National Park. There are no fences between the parks, so the animals can move freely. However, the camp is fenced, making it suitable for families with children. The chalets are all built on wooden platforms and have a beautiful view of the landscape and the waterhole in front of the camp. (9 chalets: bath/WC, fan, mosquito net, veranda. Lodge: restaurant and lounge, pool, observation stand with view of a waterhole, bar)

The price includes two activities per night (game drives, walking safaris), local drinks and laundry service. The transfers and activities are in English and are carried out with other people.

IVORY LODGE (STANDARD TREE HOUSE)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND 4 ACTIVITIES

DAY 20 TO DAY 22 (APPROX. 310 KM):

MATOBO

The unique Matobo National Park south of Bulawayo is the oldest game reserve in the country. It is best known for its population of white and black rhino. It is also home to antelopes, big cats, giraffes and zebras. Matobo impresses with its striking granite rocks. Huge, round granite spheres can be found here and sometimes they balance on top of each other as if stacked by a giant. The grave of the British explorer Cecil Rhodes is located in the middle of huge boulders at the so-called World's View and numerous caves in the park are dotted with ancient rock paintings by the indigenous people.

The Big Cave Camp is situated on a large granite rock and offers a unique view over the Matobo National Park. The lodge is integrated into the Matobo Mountains and adapted to the rugged granite landscape. The main area, built under a thatched roof, resembles a light-flooded cave. Activities such as game drives or rhino tracking are offered for a fee (English-speaking and with additional persons). (8 chalets: bath/WC, tea/coffee station, veranda. Lodge: rock pool, fireplace, lounge, bar, restaurant)

BIG CAVE CAMP (STANDARD ROOM)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD

DAY 22 TO DAY 23 (APPROX. 330 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 BREAKFAST

DAY 23 TO DAY 24 (APPROX. 110 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 24 TO DAY 25 (APPROX. 220 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.

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 25 (APPROX. 240 KM): 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.

DAY 25 TO DAY 28 (APPROX. 20 KM):

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 28 (APPROX. 20 KM): 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 28: KHWAI

FLIGHT KHWAI - 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.

DAY 28 TO DAY 29 (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.

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 29 TO DAY 30 (APPROX. 540 KM):

GOBABIS

The savannah of the Kalahari stretches across eastern Namibia, its vastness interrupted only here and there by large farms. The paved B6 highway - which covers 205 kilometers from Windhoek to Gobabis - runs largely parallel to the course of the White Nossob River, which rises in the highlands of Neudamm east of the capital and crosses the arid Kalahari. The road ends in the east of Namibia in the cattle breeding center of Gobabis. The name Gobabis supposedly means "place of elephants"; however, it could also be the old local name for "place of dispute or discussion".

The farm of Kalahari Bush Breaks is 4,000 ha in size and is situated close to the border with Botswana. From the main house, you have a view of a waterhole where birds and wild animals often hang out. Relax in the personally managed lodge and enjoy the Namibian hospitality. (8 rooms: shower/WC. Lodge: pool, restaurant, bar, garden).

Please return your rental car to Windhoek Airport or the agreed location at least two hours before departure.

KALAHARI BUSH BREAKS (STANDARD ROOM)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

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. For Zimbabwe and from April 1, 2025 for Namibia, a tourist visa must be obtained upon entry. 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.

Etosha National Park and the northern regions of Namibia (e.g. the Caprivi Strip) as well as most parts of Botswana and Zimbabwe 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 EUROPCAR

The following services are included in the price: unlimited free mileage, accident/theft insurance without excess (incl. tires, roof, windscreen, underbody damage), liability insurance up to 10 million euros, one spare wheel, one additional driver, local taxes and fees.

The following services are not included in the price and must be paid locally: Petrol, toll, deposit, border crossing fee to Botswana and Zimbabwe 5368 NAD.

The following services are not included in the price and may be charged locally: Delivery and pick-up costs on request, additional additional driver 530 NAD, handling fee for traffic fines 432 NAD, young driver surcharge 21-22 years per day 173 NAD, navigation device 120 ZAR per day (we recommend navigation with the free offline maps from Google).

To rent a vehicle, you will need a valid credit card issued to the main driver, an international driver's license and a passport. Each driver must have held a driver's license for at least two years. The deposit will be paid by credit card and will not be charged if the vehicle is returned with a full tank of fuel.

The local car rental company reserves the right to provide models of equal or higher value. The rental car mentioned is only an example of the confirmed vehicle class. The rates to be paid on the spot in NAD are determined by the local car rental company and are subject to change without notice.

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

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 524 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.