36 Day Southern Africa Accommodated Budget Safari

An affordable African Safari of a lifetime, travelling from South Africa up through Namibia, Botswana, Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and across to Mozambique on the South Eastern coast of Africa.

Departing from Cape Town this Southern Africa Accommodated Budget Safari visits the Cederberg region where you meet the !Kwa ttu people, before heading north to the Orange River.

Crossing into Namibia we explore highlights such as the coastal town of Swakopmund, the Naukluft NP, the Sesriem Canyon, Sossusvlei, Spitzkoppe, a Himba tribe visit and the Etosha National Park.

We then head across the border to the jewel of Botswana, the Okavango Delta and onwards to Chobe National Park. From Chobe we cross into Zimbabwe and visit the mightly Victoria Falls, the Adventure Capital of Southern Africa.

From Vic Falls we head South through Botswana and back into South Africa before we travel into Swaziland and on to Mozambique with its tropical beaches and laid back way of life. Highlights in Mozambique will include, Praia Do Tofu with its watersports, Vilanculos where we will take a dhow trip to the Bazaruto Archipelago, Inhambane and the Capital City of Maputo.

We then cross back into South Africa and explore South Africa's top game reserve, the Kruger National Park, where we will go in search of Africa's "Big 5". Next we visit a Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre in the Greater Kruger Park area.

On the last day of this Southern African Budget Safari we journey to Johannesburg via the Panoramic Route where our safari trip of a lifetime comes to and end.

Tour Highlights include:

• Cape Town, Cederberg & Orange River
• Namib Desert & Swakopmund of Namibia
• Himba Tribe & Etosha Park in Namibia
• Okavango Delta & Chobe Park in Botswana
• Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe
• Hlane Royal Park in Swaziland
• Mozambique Beaches & Bazaruto Islands
• Kruger National Park & Panorama Route in South Africa

Day 1: Cederberg Mountains – South Africa

This Cape Town to Victoria Falls Safari departs from the beautiful city of Cape Town, stopping to at Table View to photograph or simply admire the panoramic views of the city and Table Mountan from afar.

We make our way north to the Cederberg Mountain region in the Western Cape visiting the !Kwa ttu people along the way. The !Kwa ttu are San descents of the first indigenous people inhabiting southern Africa and a visit to this cultural centre provides insight into the customs, past and traditional knowledge and survival skills of this interesting people. 

We enjoy a 3-hour cultural tour with a San guide and visit the museum at the centre, located just outside of Yzterfontein. Then we have lunch at the !Kwa ttu Centre’s restaurant before continuing our journey to Piketberg. In Piketberg we stop at an organic wine farm for some wine tasting. 

After sampling some fine organic wines we head to our overnight accommodation in Clanwilliam, one of the oldest towns in South Africa. Clanwilliam is located between the rugged Cederberg Mountains, famous for dramatic rock formations, and the Olifants River. The Cederberg is named after the endangered Clanwilliam Cedar tree, endemic to this part of South Africa.

Upon arrival at the guesthouse your guides will give you a full tour briefing. We spend the night at a 3-star Guesthouse in the charming town of Clanwilliam, surrounded by fertile hills covered in vineyards, rooibos tea and citrus fruit trees. Accommodation is in twin rooms with en-suite bathrooms featuring hot showers. The guesthouse is set in a leafy garden and facilities include a swimming pool, diningroom and braai (barbecue) areas, as well as wireless internet.

Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Included Activities: San guided tour, organic wine-tasting

Day 2: Namaqualand and Orange/Gariep River – Namibia

We travel through the Namaqualand region, famous for its colourful and abundant indigenous wildflowers in spring and continue on to the Gariep/Orange River.

We stop in the remote town of Springbok for last minute supplies before crossing into Namibia. The night is spent getting to know one another over a hearty meal. Overnight accommodation is in comfortable chalets that overlook the Orange River, forming the border between South Africa and Namibia. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Orange/Gariep River to Fish River Canyon – Namibia

In the morning we have the opportunity to experience South Africa's longest river, the Gariep/Orange River by canoe, or spend some time relaxing at the guesthouse.

After lunch we travel north to the Ai-Ais Hot Springs and our overnight accommodation close to the mighty Fish River Canyon, the 2nd largest canyon in the world. In the afternoon we take a scenic hike along the rim of the canyon in order to gain some perspective on just how large this natural phenomena is, returning to Ai-Ais to enjoy the hot springs at camp. The camp has a restaurant and we stay in twin share rooms with en-suite bathrooms.

Included Activities: Scenic walk along the rim of Fish River Canyon.
Optional Activities: Half Day Orange River Canoe Adventure.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Fish River Canyon to Kokerboom Forest – Namibia

This morning we drive into the vast Kalahari area of Namibia stopping to visit the Kokerboom Forest.

The Kokerboom, a type of aloe plant, is sometimes called the Quiver Tree as it was often used by the indigenous Khoisan people for making quivers for their arrows.

In the afternoon there is the option of some historical sightseeing on the farm that the guesthouse owns. The quiet guesthouse, furnished in antiques, is an excellent place to appreciate the wide starry desert skies. The semi-arid Kalahari lies in Namibia, Botswana and South Africa and is a great place to experience open space and quiet solitude. 

Included Activities: Visit the Kokerboom (Quiver tree) forest
Optional Activities: Kalahari Sundowner, Historical Sightseeing on farm
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Bushman Community & Namib-Naukluft Park – Namibia

Today we visit the Namib National Park, one of Namibia’s geographic gems, said to be amongst Africa's largest game parks.

The national park incorporates part of the Namib desert, considered the world's oldest desert. There are massive sand dunes in the Sossusvlei desert area, famous for the towering red-orange sand dunes of its remarkable landscapes. After a morning optional Tribal interaction and bush walk with the original !Xung Bushman (San) people we travel to the Namib and stay the night at a lodge just outside the park. We sleep in en-suite twin rooms with hot showers at this lodge featuring a swimming pool.

Optional Activities: African Tribal interaction.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Namib-Naukluft National Park – Namibia

We enter the Namib Desert exploring the unique desert ecosystem.

Later we drive to Dune 45 where you have the chance to take a relatively easy hike up the dune for an amazing view and photo opportunities.

In the afternoon there’s a short walk into Sesriem Canyon, which stretches about a kilometer in length and reaches up to 30 meters deep. The floor of Sesriem Canyon is dotted with shallow pools with the canyon being formed by the Tsauchab River flowing through sedimentary rock deposited about 20 million years ago. 

When we return to the lodge from our walk in the canyon you have the chance to spend some time with one of the resident big cats.

Optional Activities: Hike in Sossusvlei, Wild Cat Walk
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Swakopmund – Namibia

Today we are joined by an expert local guide for a 3-hour nature walk. Exploring on foot, this local guide will share their detailed knowledge of the ancient Namib desert area with us.

Then we cross the Tropic of Capricorn on our way through the desert. Our first stop is Walvis Bay where we may see some flamingos, depending on the season. Then it’s on to Swakopmund, the adventure capital of Namibia, where you will be briefed on the many optional activities available for the next day.

In the evening you can enjoy some excellent seafood at a local restaurant as well as the vibrant local nightlife. We stay at a comfortable guesthouse in Swakopmund featuring a dining area and bar. Accommodation is in twin share rooms with en suite bathrooms that have hot showers.

Included activities: 3hr desert walk
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 8: Swakopmund – Namibia

This day is left free for you to explore the quaint town of Swakopmund, where German colonial influences can still be seen, or try one of the many adventure activities available at this popular coastal town. Take a quad bike over the dunes, try sand boarding, sky diving or take a cruise to see dolphins. 

Optional Activities: quad biking, sky diving, sand boarding, scenic flights and more.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 9: Kamanjab & Himba Tribe – Namibia

Heading inland, we drive north towards Kamanjab village in the Kunene Region of Namibia where we meet the semi-nomadic local people from this area in the afternoon.

The Himba are a pastoral people that have a distinct culture, visible in their unique style of dress and striking appearance, particularly their hairstyles and elaborate jewelry. The Himba people still speak a dialect of the old Herero language and traditionally breed cattle or goats. Encountering a totally different way of life can be a moving experience for many people.

We spend the night at a guesthouse in Kamanjab, sleeping in twin share rooms with en-suite bathrooms. The guesthouse, located near the Himba village, has a swimming pool, braai (barbecue) facilities and an open deck area for relaxing under the stars at night.

Included activity: Guided visit to the Himba tribe.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10 - 11: Etosha National Park – Namibia

After our cultural experience with the traditional Himba people we make our way to Etosha National Park for some superb game viewing.

We will visit water-holes in search of the wild animals that come to drink at these sites, as well as exploring as much as we can of the Etosha. The 22 000 km² Etosha Park is dominated by the salt pan after which the park is named. The word Etosha means ‘Great White Place of Dry Water’ in the local Ovambo language.

Etosha Park is home to a variety of animal, plant and bird life and is known as a top safari destination for sighting endangered black rhinos and the elusive cheetah. Etosha hosts some rare and endangered species, including unusual desert species. We will have plenty to see on our game drives in this vast park inhabited by 144 mammal species such as elephant, giraffe, blue wildebeest, eland, damara dik-dik, lion, cheetah, leopard, wildcat, hyena, and jackal. As well as being home to 340 bird species, 110 reptile species, 16 amphibian species and even a species of fish.

We will stay in bungalows inside the park, at Okaukuejo and/or Halali camp, both of which boast floodlit night waterholes where wild animals congregate to drink. We stay two per en-suite room at the overnight camps, each featuring a bar, swimming pool and shop. 

Included Activities: Afternoon game drive in truck (day 10) and full day game drive in truck (day 11)
Optional Activities: Night drive or morning game drive with Game Ranger.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Windhoek – Namibia

On our way to Namibia's capital city we stop at an arts and crafts market so you can purchase some authentic African creations.

Windhoek is situated at almost the exact centre of Namibia. Upon arrival in Windhoek we take a short driving tour of the city and then there is some free time to explore the city centre before checking into our centrally located hotel.

Tonight you have the chance to try game meat and enjoy a night out at one of Windhoeks excellent restaurants or German-style pubs. Facilities at our overnight hotel include a big swimming pool set in the lush hotel gardens, restaurants and bars. Accommodation is in twin share rooms with en-suite bathrooms.

Included Activities: Craft market en-route; short city tour
Optional Activities: Dinner at a local restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 13: Ghanzi - Botswana

We say goodbye to Namibia making our way to the Botswana border from where we drive through rural countryside dotted with villages and roaming livestock.

Later we arrive at our lodge in Ghanzi, and this evening we experience some traditional tribal dancing from the San community. The traditional San people are indigenous to Southern Africa having inhabited the area for over 30 000 years surviving in harsh conditions as nomadic hunter-gatherers.

Tonight's lodge is located on a private game reserve with an active watering hole and has two swimming pools, a restaurant and a bar. We sleep two per en-suite room at this comfortable lodge just north of Ghanzi.

Included Activities: Bushman dancing in evening.

Optional Activities: Bushman (San) Guided Walk, Game Drive.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14 – 16: Maun to Okavango Delta - Botswana

Maun is well known as the gateway to the Okavango Delta, the world’s largest inland delta. The Okavango River has no outlet to the sea, so it empties into the sands of the Kalahari Desert, irrigating some 15,000 square km’s.

We spend one night in Maun and prepare for this excursion. We fly into the Delta in small planes taking us over this amazing wetland area to our safari camp for the next 2 nights. Animals are often spotted from the lodge, but we also take a nature walk in this untamed wilderness and, if the water level allows, a mokoro (traditional canoe) trip. The animals in the Delta are not as familiar with people so the game viewing is totally wild, as are the hippos in the river!

The pristine Okavango Delta is the jewel of Botswana and one of the top wildlife destinations for travellers to Southern Africa. The Delta system is made up of a series of rivers, flood plains and waterways fed by water from the plains of Angola during the rainy season. It takes a good 6 months for the waters to make their way down into the Okavango Delta. Not only is the Delta labyrinth a visual delight but it is also home to an abundance of fauna and flora, Including some amazing birdlife. 

On day 14 we stay at a shaded camp in en-suite chalets with hot showers. The camp is just outside of Maun and features a swimming pool and lively bar. In the Delta we stay in en-suite Meru tents at a shaded camp overlooking the legendary Chiefs Island and delta waterways. The camp borders the Moremi Game Reserve and features a swimming pool with a shaded deck area, as well as a thatched restaurant, bar and lounge area.

Included Activities: Flight from Maun to the Delta camp (approx 20min), Afternoon boat cruise along the Delta channels (day 15); Nature Walks and Mokoro rides (day 16).
Optional Activities: Crocodile Farm Visit in Maun (Day 14), Nature Walk, Mokoro Rides.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 17: Gweta - Botswana

A second scenic flight over the Okavango Delta will return us to Maun and the truck. This afternoon we drive to Gweta where our evening accommodation is set amongst the majestic Baobab trees that are indigenous to this area.

Our oasis-like camp is set in the middle of the dry expanse of the Makgadikgadi salt pans in the Kalahari. We sleep in authentic, luxury Bakalanga huts with en-suite bathrooms at this funky camp with a pool and lively bar. The camp is near an active watering hole frequented by elephants that come to splash in the cool waters.

Included activities: Scenic flight back to Maun.
Optional activities: Baobab Nature Walk.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 18: Chobe National Park - Botswana

After continuing north to Kasane, we take a Chobe River sunset cruise in the Chobe National Park, renowned for its large population of migratory elephants and large buffalo herds.

From the water we get up close to plenty of wild animals such as hippos, buffalo and elephant making for excellent photographic opportunities.

Chobe Park is Botswana’s second largest National Park, covering around 10 566 sq km of lakes, islands and floodplains in northern Botswana. 

Our accommodation is in twin rooms with en suite bathrooms at a camp overlooking the Chobe River, near the park entrance and includes a swimming pool and bar.

Included Activities: Sunset River Cruise in Chobe Park
Optional Activities : Chobe Game Drive in the morning.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 19: Victoria Falls - Zimbabwe

After an early morning optional game drive in Chobe Park we cross into Zimbabwe where we have a short briefing on all the activities available here. Then we enter the much anticipated Victoria Falls National Park where we will experience the might of the great Zambezi River.

Victoria Falls is one of the seven natural wonders of the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Vic Falls is considered the largest sheet of falling water in the world at 1700m wide  and over 100m high. The local name for the falls is Mosi-oa-Tunya meaning The Smoke that Thunders, which you will be able to fully appreciate when you witness the impressive spray rising up from the waterfall as it roars into the gorge below.

Our overnight accommodation is at a hilltop resort a few kilometers from Vic Falls. The resort boasts three restaurants, two bars, two tennis courts, two squash courts, a swimming pool, bowling greens and a gym, as well as a 18-hole championship golf course.

Included Activities: Vic Falls National Park entrance fees.
Optional Activities: Sunrise Game Drive in Chobe Park, Zambezi Sunset Cruise, Dinner in local restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 20: Victoria Falls - Zimbabwe

Most people will spend the day white water rafting on the Zambezi River, a not-to-be-missed experience of a lifetime! Vic Falls offers many exciting alternatives, such as a walk with lions, elephant back rides or a helicopter flight over the Falls. We spend another night at the hilltop hotel near Vic Falls.

In the evening you are free to enjoy dinner out at one of the many local restaurants (own account).

Optional Activities: White Water Rafting, Bungee Jump, Elephant Excursion, White Water Rafting, Walk with Lions and many more.
Meals: Breakfast

Day 21: Victoria Falls To Palapye - Botswana

We depart from our hotel near Victoria Falls at 6am heading south through Botswana to our next overnight stop at Palapye, or the border post at Martinsdrift. We spend the night at a lively camp in en-suite rooms with hot showers. The camp features a swimming pool, restaurant and friendly bar with game facilities and a pool table.

Optional activities: South African Braai (BBQ) / All Meals

Meals: No Meals

Day 22: Palapye to Johannesburg - South Africa

Another 6am departure will ensure that we cover the next 550km through South Africa arriving in Johannesburg as early as possible.

Our overnight hotel is located on the banks of natural lakes next to a golf course with facilities including tennis courts, a bar and a swimming pool. We stay in en-suite twin rooms at this hotel with a country setting, close to the Johannesburg International Airport.

In the evening you can enjoy dinner at one of the many local restaurants located in the area.

Optional activities: All Meals.

No meals included.

Day 23: Mpumalanga to Hlane Royal National Park - Swaziland

Leaving Johannesburg early, we travel through the Mpumalanga province to Swaziland. After crossing the border we enter Hlane Royal Park, home to lion, elephant, white rhino and diverse birdlife.

The 30,000 hectare Nature Reserve has a wide variety of optional activities available.

Optional Activities: Hiking, Mountian Biking, Game drive, Rhino Walk.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 24: Hlane Royal National Park - Swaziland

Hlane, Swaziland’s largest protected area, was originally the private hunting area of the Swazi Royal family. Today the wilderness area is held in trust and managed by Big Game Parks. Hlane's lions are housed in a fenced-off enclosure, making it safe to hike inside the park.

After a day’s exploring there is an included display of traditional Swazi dancing following dinner.

Optional Activities: Hiking, Mountian Biking, Game drive, Rhino Walk.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 25: Swaziland to Praia do Tofo - Mozambique

Today we leave the Kingdom of Swaziland and travel to Mozambique.

Travelling north you can’t help but be captivated by the beautiful coastal scenery before arriving in Praia do Tofo and our camp for the next two nights.

Whether you just want to relax on the white sandy beaches or take on some of Africa’s most amazing diving and snorkelling spots, there’s plenty on offer in Tofo.

Optional Activities: Snorkelling, Scuba Diving and Surfing.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 26: Praia do Tofo - Mozambique

In season Tofo is one of the world’s best sites for the viewing of the world’s largest fish, the Whale Shark.

This entire day is free so that you can go snorkelling, scuba diving or just relax on the beautiful white sandy beach.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 27: Vilanculos - Mozambique

The Bazaruto Archipelago is the premier destination for travel in Mozambique and it’s easy to see why it is so well-loved. A protected area, the sea-life here is spectacular and snorkelling at one of the reefs is one of the best ways to enjoy it.

On the way to Vilanculos we will be stopping at a local craft market for a little souvenir shopping.

Optional Activities: Snorkelling, Horse Riding
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 28: Bazaruto Archipelago National Park Excursion - Mozambique

The Bazaruto excursion is taken on the traditional sailing vessel of the African East Coast, the Dhow.

We sail to the Bazaruto Islands and have the opportunity to snorkel, swim and relax over these 2 days. The Bazaruto is one of Southern Africa’s largest marine parks. Accommodation this evening will be in a small B&B.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 29: Bazaruto Archipelago National Park  - Mozambique

The second day of this oceanic excursion is again spent exploring the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean and the abundant sea-life it supports.

On rare occasions the weather may be unfavourable and in this case the Dhow will be replaced with a more conventional vessel.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 30 - 31: Inhambane - Mozambique

Today we travel through coconut plantations to the old Portuguese settlement of Inhambane.

In the early afternoon we arrive at our camp, right on the beach.

The following day is free to soak up the sun, swim or partake in the varied optional activities available along this relaxing coastal area boasting incredible beaches.

There are many optional activities available here from fishing to horse riding.

Optional Activities: Scuba Diving, Horse Riding, Quad Biking, Snorkelling, Fishing, Boat Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 32: Maputo - Mozambique

We return south to Mozambique’s capital, Maputo. Mozambique gained full independence from the Portuguese in 1975, but only gained political stability in more recent times and is undergoing a major upgrade as the country’s economy grows.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 33 - 34: Maputo to Kruger National Park - South Africa

Today we travel to South Africa to the world famous Kruger National Park, where we hope to spot Africa’s Big Five.

The Kruger Park is one of the most famous nature conservation areas in the world.

The wilderness area is roughly 36,800 square kilometers in size and was founded by South Africa's first president Paul Kruger.

Two nights are spent in this vast game park viewing African wildlife. Our game drives take us in search of Africa's Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo), as well as an abundance of other wild animals and birds. The safari truck used for our game drive gives us a more elevated view of the park, making it easier to spot big cats and other smaller game that would otherwise be hidden in the vegetation.

South Africa’s flagship game park, Kruger Park is considered one of the best safari destinations in Africa. Kruger Park is also recognized as a world leader in terms of its wildlife management practices and environmental policies. Kruger Park protects an unrivalled diversity of plants and animals, including around 336 tree species, 49 fish species, 34 amphibian species, 114 species of reptiles, 507 bird and 147 mammal species.

Informative dawn game walks and night drives (accompanied by a ranger) are offered as an optional extra.

Optional Activities: SANP Night Drive and Dawn Game Walks (Subject to availability).

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (day 11only), Dinner

Day 35: Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre - South Africa

We drive into the Greater Kruger Park Area today to visit Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. The Wildlife Centre rehabilitates cheetahs and other animals for release back in to the wild.

In the evening we enjoy a traditional song and dance evening along with a typical South African meal.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 36: Panorama Route to Johannesburg - South Africa

Today we travel along the Panorama Route stopping at Blyde River Canyon, the 3rd largest canyon in the world. Breathtaking view points include God's Window. The Bourke's Luck Potholes are the fascinating results of erosion caused by the River and make for some wonderful photographs.

This epic Southern African Safari ends on arrival in Johannesburg.

Johannesburg has many excellent restaurants and the group often spends this evening together.

Optional Activities: Dinner out

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch