Drifters Cape To Vic Falls Accom.

Drifters' tours are full of adventure. The overland safari operator has been one of the largest and most renowned in southern Africa for over 40 years. The tour from Cape Town via Victoria Falls to Johannesburg starts as a classic camping safari in tents for two and as an accommodated safari in fixed basic accommodation. This description refers to the Accommodated Safari.

You will spend the night in simple, permanent accommodation. Bed linen and towels are provided. Nevertheless, the overall character of an adventurous overland tour is not completely lost. All travelers should have a certain open-minded attitude. This is not a typical hotel bus tour. Single travelers may have to share a room with a fellow traveler of the same sex, but a single room (optional) is also available on request. Transportation is by non-air-conditioned safari truck.

The tour language is English and the group is international. The age structure is between 18 and around 55 years. The maximum number of participants for this trip is 12. Unlike many other safari providers, Drifters does not charge a local payment or food kitty. All services included in the tour are booked and paid for in advance. Only optional activities and meals not included must be paid for directly on site.

Flights are not included in these tours. On request, we are happy to arrange suitable flights or airport transfers to suit the tours, as well as pre- or post-night stays. As the Drifters tours usually start early in the morning and only arrive in the late afternoon, you should book at least one overnight stay at the start location and one overnight stay at the destination in order not to miss the start of the tour or the return flight. This tour can optionally be ended on day 20 or 21 in Victoria Falls.

Start dates and prices 2024/2025 as PDF

This unique tour visits numerous highlights in four countries in southern Africa. Africa is big and we cover a lot of ground. We travel a lot on bad roads, but our specially built truck is up to the task. Every day brings new adventures. We start in Cape Town, where we visit the Cape of Good Hope and hike up Table Mountain. We will canoe on the Orange River, a life-giving wonder in the arid Richtersveld area. In Namibia, we will walk on some of the highest sand dunes, discover rustic Swakopmund and explore the wild corners of Etosha National Park. Botswana invites us to glide through the reed channels of the Okavango Delta, a jewel in the arid landscape of the Kalahari, and to explore Chobe National Park by boat. In Zimbabwe, we will be amazed by the Victoria Falls and have the chance to test our nerves in Africa's adventure playground. A game drive in an open off-road vehicle in Hwange National Park gives us another opportunity to get even closer to Africa's wild animals. Rhino tracking on foot in Matobo leaves us feeling both thrilled and humbled. Back in Botswana, we have one last chance to sit around the campfire and take in the sounds and smells of the African bush at night before heading to the melting pot of cultures - Johannesburg.

DAY 1-2: CAPE TOWN
We start our tour in Cape Town, considered by many to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world. We meet at the hotel at 13:00 and after a briefing and the formalities, our adventure begins with a guided hike up Table Mountain. The view of the city and the Atlantic Ocean is spectacular. The next day we explore the picturesque Cape Peninsula. We visit Hout Bay, Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope. We return to the lodge to freshen up and enjoy dinner on the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. We may have to adapt the day's itinerary to the weather conditions.
We spend both nights at the aha Harbour Bridge Hotel. It is conveniently located on the V&A Warerfront close to shopping, restaurants and the promenade.
Overnight stay: aha Harbour Bridge Hotel, meals included: breakfast on day 2

DAY 3: WEST COAST
We leave the Mother City behind us and after catching a last glimpse of Table Mountain from the other side of the bay, our journey takes us north through the "Swartland" and along the west coast into Namaqualand. Namaqualand is a completely new landscape to our eyes, shaped by the dry winds of the Benguela River. In spring, this otherwise barren landscape comes to life and millions of desert flowers bloom, turning the landscape into an unforgettable spectacle of color.

Our route takes us through a contrasting and ever-changing landscape, from open plains to dramatic rock formations found in the Cederberg Mountains. We cover some distance and spend the night in the small town of Springbok, which is nestled between the rocky outcrops in the Namaqua Desert.
Overnight stay: Springbok Inn, meals included: breakfast, dinner

DAY 4-5: ORANGE RIVER
Today we cross the border into Namibia, known for its dramatic landscapes and beautiful desert vistas. Once we have crossed the border, we drive the short distance to our site on the banks of the Orange River. We enjoy a relaxing afternoon on the riverbank and prepare for our canoe tour for the next day. We spend two nights in a cozy accommodation.
The Orange River is the longest river in South Africa and forms the natural border with Namibia. Seen from above, the river forms a green ribbon that winds its way through the desert and the towering mountains of Richtersveld National Park. After breakfast, we take the canoes and follow the river at a leisurely pace while enjoying the spectacular scenery of the Richterveld. In the late afternoon we return to our accommodation to relax, swim and enjoy the surroundings.
Overnight: Felix Unite Lodge, meals included: 2x breakfast, 2x lunch, 2x dinner

DAY 6: FISH RIVER CANYON - NAMIB DESERT
Today we head to the magnificent Fish River Canyon, the second largest after the Grand Canyon. Over a hundred million years old, the 160 kilometer long canyon is a testament to the relentless nature and evidence of ice ages and raging torrents in the past. Today, the Fish River flows only during the wet summer months, reduced to small pools of stagnant water in the winter months. We view nature's handiwork from the edge of the canyon before heading back into the real Namib and our destination for the next two nights. We arrive at Kronenhof Lodge in the late afternoon.
Overnight: Kronenhof Lodge, meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner

DAY 7: NAMIB DESERT
Kronenhof Lodge is situated in a private reserve on the Namib Rand and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna that have adapted to the desert. The lodge is spectacularly situated on a rocky outcrop between high mountains and the red sand dunes. The reserve offers visitors a private and exclusive experience, breathtaking views and ample time to explore the vibrant desert.
In the morning we take a walk with our guide to get a closer look at the desert and its unique geology and ecology. During the heat of the day, there is an opportunity to relax in the lodge or enjoy the small swimming pool with a cool drink. The more adventurous can freely explore the surroundings, go bird watching or sit alone high up on one of the rocks and watch the ever-changing colors of the landscape. In the afternoon we drive a little further and explore the desert in an open vehicle, always on the lookout for oryx antelope or desert foxes, before stopping at a suitable spot to enjoy the red sunset and a traditional sundowner drink. As soon as it is dark, we drive slowly back to the lodge in the hope of spotting a few more nocturnal animals. These include porcupines, aardvarks and the brown hyena.
Overnight stay: Kronenhof Lodge, meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner

DAY 8: SOSSUSVLEI
We start early and drive directly to Sesriem and the Sossusvlei dunes. Here we climb one of the highest sand dunes in the world, only to see dune after dune into the distance. As it gets warmer, we return from the top of the dune and take a 4×4 vehicle into the heart of Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. We explore this world-famous landmark on foot. The different colors of the red dunes, the white salt pan and the utter beauty offer a truly unforgettable experience.
We return to our own vehicle by 4×4 vehicle. On the way we stop at the Sesriem Canyon and then drive further into the desert, where we spend the night in a cozy accommodation.
Overnight: Sossus On Foot Bushman's Lodge, meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner

DAY 9: DUNES - SWAKOPMUND
After a short drive, we cross the Kuiseb Canyon and the Namib-Naukluft National Park. We stop briefly in Walvis Bay, Namibia's most important port, before arriving in the coastal town of Swakopmund. Founded in 1892, the German colonial influence is still visible today - in the town's history, architecture, culture and cuisine. Modern Swakopmund is a visitor's paradise, with good restaurants and stores, friendly locals and plenty of opportunities for adventure. We spend two nights here, which gives us a full day to explore the town and get excited by the choice of adventure. For those who want to relax and wash off the dust of the desert, the beaches are ideal - the white sand warmed by the sun and the cool Atlantic Ocean.
Overnight: Swakopmund Plaza Hotel, meals included: breakfast, lunch

DAY 10: SWAKOPMUND
Today we have time to explore the town with its beaches, markets and small souvenir stores. A variety of adventure options are available, including quad biking, skydiving, sand dune boarding, an ocean safari, fishing and much more. To really get a feel of Swakopmund, we dine at local restaurants on both evenings (own expense).
Overnight: Swakopmund Plaza Hotel, meals included: breakfast

DAY 11: BRANDBERG
Today we drive north along the Skeleton Coast, a barren and desolate stretch of coastline that lies between the Atlantic Ocean and the Namib Desert. Shipwrecks are scattered all over the beaches. The Bushmen called this "the land that God created in anger". We visit Cape Cross, famous for its crosses erected by the Portuguese explorers in the late 15th century. Today, this protected area, the Cape Cross Seal Reserve, is home to tens of thousands of fur seals, making it one of the largest seal colonies in the world.

We drive through the desert back inland to the Brandberg, the highest mountain in Namibia. Bushmen lived in crevices at the foot of the mountain for a long time and left behind over 45,000 rock paintings, including the mysterious "White Lady". We take a short hike to view the ancient petroglyphs.
Tonight we sleep at the foot of the mountain. We hope to see one of the rare desert elephants roaming around the trees of the nearby Ugab riverbed from our lodge.
Overnight: White Lady Lodge, meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner

DAY 12-13: ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK
Etosha is unique. At its heart is a barren salt pan, the Etosha Pan, which covers an area of almost 5,000 km². In the dry winter months it is a shimmering white, sunny lake bed, while in summer the water is low and tens of thousands of flamingos, leaping fish and terrapins can be seen. The salt pan surrounds a dry scrub and grassland and is home to hundreds of different animal species.
We spend the days exploring the park from the high vantage point of our vehicle as we go on a game drive and visit the waterholes. During the high season, when the rest camps are busy, we reserve the option to stay in accommodation outside the park.
Accommodation: 2x lodge outside the park, meals included: 2x breakfast, 2x lunch, 2x dinner

DAY 14: CAPRIVI
Today we cover some distance, driving through towns and villages in northern Namibia and gaining an insight into the everyday life of the locals. We arrive at the edge of the Okavango River, suddenly green, lush and inviting. Not far from here, the river flows into the Okavango Delta. But here on the riverbank, the river is rapid and deep, the trees are tall and the crocodiles are large. The cool shade on the riverbank is a welcome change from the strong Namibian sun.
Overnight stay: Ngepi Lodge, meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner

DAY 15-16: OKAVANGO DELTA
With great anticipation, we cross the border into Botswana and drive the short distance to the Okavango Delta, the world's largest inland delta and a truly unique natural spectacle.

The Okavango River rises in Angola far to the northwest, then flows south and east before slowly expanding into the only true inland delta. It creates a unique ecosystem with a great diversity of animals and plants. A leafhen brushes between the flowering lilies, the bee-eater snatches up an innocent insect and of course the cry of the African fish eagle - all this creates a unique masterpiece created by nature. The river, whose waters eventually flow into the vast Makgadikgadi sands, disappears.
Our comfortable and well-equipped camp on the edge of the largest lagoon serves as a base from which we explore the area. We glide through the narrow, reed-lined channels in mokoros, walk on uninhabited islands and picnic in the wilderness. Meanwhile, we learn more about the animals and plants of the delta from local guides who grew up in the delta. By interacting with the guides, we have the opportunity to learn more about the locals and their daily lives in this remote area. We will also have time to relax and take in the views over the glistening lagoon from a beautiful wooden deck with a cool drink in hand. Alternatively, we can enjoy a quick dip in the pool. We also take a relaxing boat trip to watch the sunset. A helicopter flight to view the vastness of the delta from above is recommended (at your own expense).
Overnight stay: 2x Twin-Bedded Tented Unit, meals included: 2x breakfast, 2x lunch, 2x dinner

DAY 17: MAUN
We start early and make our way to Maun. We spend some time stocking up on supplies before traveling the short distance out of town and to Drifters Maun Camp, where we spend the night.
The lodge is located on the edge of the Boteti River. The river is known to change direction depending on the season and rainfall. The lodge offers a swimming pool, bar, restaurant and bird watching opportunities.
Overnight: Drifters Maun Camp, meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner

DAY 18: MAKGADIKGADI PANS
After getting up early in the last few days, today we start the day in a relaxed manner and enjoy the peace and quiet on the riverbank or simply laze by the pool. For those who are interested, we recommend a walk through the village. Chenoga Village is not far from the lodge and is off the beaten tourist track, so you have the opportunity to explore an authentic village with a lodge employee who lives in the village himself.

We enjoy an early lunch and head east towards the spectacular Makgadikgadi salt pans. Golden grass shows us the way to the white pans under the vast sky. We stop to soak up the tranquillity before continuing on to Elephant Sands Lodge, where we spend the next night. Here the sighting of elephants at the waterhole is almost guaranteed.
Overnight stay: Elephant Sands Lodge, meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner

DAY 19: KASANE - VICTORIA FALLS
Always heading north, we drive to the tranquil Chobe River. The Chobe is the ideal area for hippos and crocodiles and attracts some of the largest elephant and buffalo herds in the world. We glide close to the riverbanks by boat, hoping to approach the animals quietly. Back on land, we cross the border into Zimbabwe and drive to our accommodation for the next two nights. The lodge is centrally located and within walking distance of the falls and other attractions.
Overnight stay: Shearwater Explorers Village, meals included: breakfast, lunch

DAY 20: VICTORIA FALLS
We wake up in the adventure capital of Africa and enthusiastically explore the breathtaking Victoria Falls, also known as "Mosi-oa-Tunya", which means "Thundering Smoke". The entrance fee to the falls is already included in the tour price and you can take as much time as you like to explore the falls and the nearby rainforest.

During our stay in Victoria Falls, numerous other attractions can also be visited, such as the indigenous village or the souvenir market. "Vic Falls is also home to various adventure activities, such as a helicopter flight over the falls, a boat trip on the Zambezi River, white water rafting or bungee jumping (all at your own expense).
We spend two nights here, which gives us time to explore the small town and everything it has to offer. We eat both evenings at a local restaurant at our own expense. Relax to the sounds of the African night and the roar of the waterfalls in the background as you toast to your adventure.
Overnight: Shearwater Explorers Village, meals included: breakfast

DAY 21: GREATER HWANGE
After breakfast, we drive the short distance to the famous Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe's most important game reserve. Known for its large herds of elephant and buffalo, the park is also home to over 100 different mammal species and 400 different bird species. Lions, leopards and wild dogs are regularly spotted here. This afternoon we go on a game drive with local guides in an open off-road vehicle and learn even more about this area.
Overnight: Camp Silwane, meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner

DAY 22: BULAWAYO - MATOBO
Today we drive further south to Bulawayo, Zimbabwe's second largest city, with its uniquely wide roads. We continue towards Matobo, where we take an afternoon game drive in an open off-road vehicle into Matobo National Park. Here we leave our vehicle and follow the rhinos on foot through the bush.
For most people, observing these large animals in their natural environment is something truly special.
Our accommodation for the night lies high up on a granite rock in the Matobo Hills and offers a great view over the park.
Overnight: Big Cave Lodge, meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner

DAY 23: LIMPOPO
We spend our last night in Botswana in a private game reserve on the banks of the Limpopo River. We take one last walk together along the river to enjoy the impressions of the African bush and catch one last glimpse of the animals in the wild. We end the day with dinner in the bush and a campfire.
Overnight: Stevensford Game Reserve, meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner

DAY 24: JOHANNESBURG
This morning, after crossing the border into South Africa, we follow the beautiful route through the Warterberg Mountains before arriving back in Africa's economic center, Johannesburg. The tour ends in the late afternoon with arrival at Greenfire Lodge Johannesburg.
Meals included: Breakfast

Important information:
The itinerary was correct at the time of publication, but Drifters is always working to provide the best possible tour for customers. Drifters reserves the right to change the tour content. While the itinerary is advertised, local conditions may change, roads may improve or deteriorate, new optional activities may be offered or discontinued, etc. Drifters always keeps an eye on all factors that influence a successful tour and will adjust the itinerary if circumstances so require.

On this tour you are accommodated in permanent accommodation or permanent tent suites, bed linen and towels are provided. Depending on the time of year, malaria prophylaxis may be advisable and can be purchased on site. The game varies, so we also want to focus on the little things in the bush. It can get very hot, so sun protection is recommended.

The price includes transportation in a non-air-conditioned safari truck, meals, coffee, tea, accommodation according to the program, activities and entrance fees according to the program, group equipment and two members of the Drifters crew.

The price does not include alcohol, bottled water and soft drinks, souvenirs, gratuities, meals not mentioned and optional activities. Before departure, guests must sign a consent to the booking conditions and general information. Guests must also be able to show their own travel insurance.

A valid passport is required for all travelers. This tour passes through South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe and it is the guest's responsibility to have all necessary visas.