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Okavango Delta walk

12 Day Namibia & Botswana Lodge Safari (Africa Overland…

Tour Length12 days
Priced from pps $2868 R54250 £2271 2658 A$4401 C$3882 NZ$4800 Full pricing info
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Summary of this Lodge Africa Overland Tour

  • Max. Group Size 20 Travellers
  • Departs from Swakopmund, Namibia
  • Ends at Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
  • Accommodation Bungalow or Chalet / Lodge / Safari Lodge / Luxury Camping
  • Transport Large Overland Vehicle / Boat / Open 4x4 Game Viewing Vehicle
  • Wildlife Big 5, Elephant, Leopards, Lions, Rhino & More
  •  See Departure Dates

Quick Itinerary Overview

A budget-friendly Namibia & Botswana Lodge Safari traveling overland from Swakopmund to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.

In Namibia visit the Skeleton Coast, Cape Cross Seal Colony, Twyfelfontein Rock Art and a Petrified Forest, before going on a wildlife safari in Etosha National Park. From Etosha drive northeast to the Kavango River, go on a game viewing river cruise and then cross into Botswana. Next, this Africa Overland Tour explores the Okavango Delta on a traditional mokoro boat and embarks on 4x4 game drives in the wildlife-rich Moremi National Park. Then your budget Botswana safari heads to the surreal landscapes of the Makgadigadi Pans, before taking you on a game-viewing boat cruise along the Chobe River. Lastly, travel overland into Zimbabwe to Victoria Falls, the adventure capital of Africa. 

A well-rounded and diverse Namibia & Botswana Safari at an excellent price!

Responsible Travel Note

During this trip, you are likely to come across activities that encourage tourists to participate in lion, elephant or other wildlife interaction. This includes walking with lions, riding elephants and any other tourist operation putting travellers in close contact with animals that would normally live wild and separate from human contact.

We absolutely do not encourage or endorse this type of wildlife interaction operation. For more information on why this is not good for Africa's wild animals, please see our detailed blog post on the subject.

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Itinerary for this Tour

Day 1: Swakopmund to Khorixas – Namibia

This Namibia & Botswana Lodge Safari departs from the charming coastal town of Swakopmund on the first morning. We drive north following the coastline where the hot sands of the desert meet the icy waves of the Atlantic Ocean. En-route we make a stop at the charming seaside holiday town of Wlotskabaken and admire the picturesque views, before heading to the nearby Lichen Fields. A local guide will tell us more about these fascinating organisms which thrive in harsh environments.

We continue to Cape Cross, known for its seal colony, one of the largest in the world with over 200,000 seals gathered on the rocks, a cacophony of sounds and smells! Cape Cross is also known as one of the historic landing points for Portuguese explorer Diego Cao in 1486. (Note that at certain times the seal colony is closed to visitors which may prevent us from visiting),

The road then heads inland towards our first overnight stop, the town of Khorixas where we overnight at a comfortable lodge.

  • Included Activity: Wlotskabaken, Lichen Fields, Cape Cross Seal Colony
  • Meals: Lunch & Dinner

Day 2: Khorixas to Etosha National Park – Namibia

On day two of our Africa Overland Tour, we begin exploring the ancient wonders of the Khorixas area. The area was inhabited by the Khoi San for 6,000 years and the site is rich in their rock art, made by shamans during rituals. Over 2,500 rock art pieces have been found in the area. Our local guide shows us round this impressive site. Then on to the nearby Petrified Forest, the remains of ancient trees that were washed down an ancient river forever captured in time.

We then get back on the road headed northeast to Namibia’s premium wildlife destination, Etosha National Park. The park is dominated by a vast salt pan visible from space – the word Etosha means ‘great white place’. Etosha National Park covers an area of 18,000 square kilometers and is home to an impressive variety of plants and animals. On entering the park, we enjoy our first game drive keeping a lookout for animals that cross our path.

We make our way to one of the comfortable park rest camps where we will overnight in en-suite rooms. We will spend three nights in the park at two of the rest camps.

  • Included Activity: Twyfelfontein Rock Art, Petrified Forest, Afternoon Game Drive
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3 & 4: Etosha National Park – Namibia

The next two days of our Africa Overland Tour is devoted to exploring this rugged wild region, hosting an amazing array and abundance of large mammals, birds, and other creatures.

On our game drives, we explore the open plains and acacia woodlands surrounding the great salt pan. Etosha Pan was once a massive inland lake, but today the flat expanse stands almost entirely dry, except for the shallow waters that sometimes collect during rainy seasons. When shallow pools form in the pans large flocks of birds can be seen and when short grasses sprout after the rains grazers make an appearance.

We stop in at the watering holes where wildlife watching is often particularly rewarding, given the congregation of herbivores and predators drawn to the precious water sources. Etosha is known for its dramatic wildlife sightings, not only because of the stark landscapes but also due to the intense competition that unfolds in its harsh environment, especially at the waterholes. With some luck, we are likely to encounter lions, rhinos, and leopards. Chances of sighting elephants, zebras, giraffes, gemsbok, springbok, and other antelopes are excellent.

Our evenings are spent relaxing at the rest camp. Each Etosha rest camp has a floodlit watering hole where you can watch wildlife at close range from the comfort of camp.

  • Included Highlight: Etosha safari in the overland tour vehicle
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (x2)

Day 5: Etosha National Park to Divundu – Namibia

On day five of our Africa Overland Tour, we are up early again, for one last game drive in Etosha National Park. Last chance to spot the wild animals of Etosha and absorb the wide-open landscapes.

Leaving Etosha we head northeast towards the Caprivi Strip. Eventually the arid landscape becomes lusher as we near the mighty Kavango River basin. We follow the river to our next overnight stop, at a lodge on the banks of the Kavango River. Enjoy a spectacular sunset over the river.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6: Divundu to Maun – Botswana

We start the day with a boat cruise on the Kavango River keeping a lookout to the wildlife which is drawn to the riverbanks to drink. Our boat weaves through groups of wallowing hippo and the occasional crocodile can be spotted lurking near the river banks.

Next, its time to journey into the next country on our budget African safari - Botswana! Once border formalities are complete, we skirt the edge of the Okavango Delta towards the town of Maun, the gateway for all exploration of the Okavango Delta region.

We overnight at a riverside lodge in Maun and prepare for our two-day excursion into the Okavango Delta tomorrow. We will need to pack smaller overnight bags as we travel in smaller 4x4 safari vehicles. There may be time to take an optional scenic flight over the Okavango Delta (weather and time permitting), which provides a spectacular perspective over this water wonderland sitting in the middle of the desert!

  • Included Highlight: Kavango River Boat Cruise
  • Optional Activity: Scenic Okavango Delta Flight
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7: Maun to Khwai River Conservation Area (Okavango Delta) – Botswana

This morning our Swakopmund to Victoria Falls Africa Overland Tour heads into the pristine Okavango Delta in Botswana. The Kavango River has no outlet to the sea, emptying into the sands of the Kalahari Desert and irrigating some 15,000 square kilometers of land. This water rich environment supports an incredible number of plants and animals making it one of the most spectacular wilderness areas on earth.

Earlybirds may have the opportunity to take an optional scenic flight (at extra cost). Then you are collected for the drive to the Khwai River Area where we spend the next two nights in a comfortable tented camp on the Khwai River floodplain.

After lunch, we drive to a nearby mokoro polers station where local guides will take us out on the delta waterways on traditional dugout mokoro boats. Each mokoro takes one passenger and the guide who expertly leads the boat through the water channels. You make a stop on one of the delta islands and your guide will lead you on a walk to learn more about the life of this fascinating area. Enjoy a spectacular sunset over the water as you glide back to the base.

  • Included Activity: Sunset Mokoro Trip
  • Optional Activity: Scenic Okavango Delta Flight
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 8: Moremi Game Reserve – Botswana

On Day 8, a full day is devoted to exploring the beautiful Moremi Game Reserve. This reserve lies at the heart of the delta, named after Chief Moremi of the local Batwana tribe who were instrumental in the protection of this pristine area.

Moremi Game Reserve has diverse landscapes, with water filled pans, floodplains, lagoons dotted with grasslands, acacia trees and dense mopane woodlands. Our game drive will encounter the impressive variety of wildlife, including elephants, giraffe, zebra, and antelopes such as kudu, red lechwe, tsessebe, and impala. The Okavango Delta is a birding paradise with more than 450 bird species recorded here, amongst them several rare and endangered species. You are really in for a game viewing treat!

  • Included Activity: Full Day Moremi Game Drive
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 9: Khwai to Maun & Nata (Makgadigadi Pans) - Botswana

Today we leave the Khwai River Area and head through the delta backroads to reunite with our overland vehicle in Maun.

Our overland tour then heads out of Maun, and the landscape becomes more arid as we head into the Kalahari Desert. The next destination on our Swakopmund to Victoria Falls Africa Overland Tour is the surreal landscapes of the Makgadigadi Pans. The area once held a giant lake, Lake Makgadigadi, which had evaporated to leave a string of salt pans.

We will stay at a lodge near the town of Nata, named after the river which flows into this dry crusty area during the wet season, covering the otherwise arid landscape with new growth which attracts herds of herbivores. With the standing waters come large flocks of flamingos and pelicans. This afternoon we take a drive into the pans to take in the surreal landscapes and keep a lookout for any birds or animals that may cross our path (depending on the season).

  • Included Activity: Afternoon Pans Drive
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 10: Nata to Kasane & Chobe National Park - Botswana

Out Africa Overland Tour continues through Botswana. The arid desert landscape slowly becomes greener as we near the Chobe River which forms the border with Zimbabwe. Our destination for the night is the town of Kasane which lies close to the intersection where four countries meet, namely Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Botswana. We will stay at a riverside lodge overlooking the Chobe River.

After lunch, we embark on a boat cruise along the Chobe River and Chobe National Park. From the water, we get close to animals such as hippos and crocodiles wallowing in the waters, and animals like antelopes, buffalos, and elephant grazing on the banks. Chobe National Park covers 11,700 square kilometers of diverse habitats from lush plains and wooded grasslands to dense forests and swamps. The river is the lifeblood of this otherwise arid region, attracting large numbers of wildlife. The park is renowned for its huge population of migratory elephants and large buffalo herds.

  • Included Activity: Chobe River Boat Cruise
  • Optional Activity: 4x4 Game Drive in Chobe National Park
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 11: Kasane to Victoria Falls – Zimbabwe

Today we cross into the final African country on our overland adventure - Zimbabwe! It is a short drive to our last stop: the world-famous Victoria Falls. We will spend our last night at a lodge located very close to the falls.

Reaching Victoria Falls town, you are free to enjoy the many activities on offer. Visit the natural wonder of Victoria Falls waterfall up close to feel the power of the world's largest sheet of falling water that plummets 108 meters to the gorge below causing a mist that rises above the falls and is visible many miles away. The locals call it Mosi-oa-Tunya, which translates as 'The Smoke that Thunders'.

You are free to unwind at the lodge, explore the markets, sights, and food options of Victoria Falls town, or jump into an adventure activity. Your guide can help you to select and book activities at Vic Falls, with a plethora of options available – white water rafting, bungee jumping or gorge swinging, helicopter/small plane/microlight scenic flights, boat cruises or game drives.

  • Optional Activities: Victoria Falls National Park Entry Fees & Adventure Activities
  • Included Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 12: Victoria Falls – Zimbabwe

Our Namibia & Botswana Lodge Safari comes to a close this morning after breakfast at the safari lodge in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

Spend the day participating in adventure activities and exploring the old colonial town on your own. There are so many exciting activities on offer here that we recommend spending an extra night or two at Victoria Falls after your Africa Overland Tour.

  • Optional Activities: Zambezi Sunset Cruise, Bungee Jumping, Helicopter Flights, White Water Rafting, and more
  • Included Meals: Breakfast

Overland Tour Note

We recommend booking your incoming and onward flights at least one day before and after this Namibia & Botswana Lodge Safari is scheduled. It is advisable to arrive the day before departure from Swakopmund and fly out at least a day after the overland tour ends in Victoria Falls to allow for delays and change, and to enjoy the exciting adventure activities available here

Simply ask your friendly travel advisor to add pre-tour and post-tour accommodation to your safari booking.

More Safari Options

This northbound Namibia & Botswana Lodge Safari Tour is also available in the opposite direction as the Victoria Falls to Botswana & Namibia Safari (Lodge Overland Tour), starting in Victoria Falls and ending in Swakopmund.

This Lodge Overland Tour is also available as a Camping Overland Tour – Namibia & Botswana Camping Safari which follows the same itinerary but with camping instead of lodge accommodation

For more details contact African Budget Safaris

Optional Extras and Excursions

For up-to-date and confirmed pricing info for optional items, please drop us an enquiry.

Botswana Safari Activities

  • Kalahari San Guided Walk
  • Okavango Delta Scenic Flight
  • Chobe National Park Game Drive

Zimbabwe Safari Activities

  • Victoria Falls National Park Entry
  • Zambezi Sunset Cruise
  • Bungee Jumping
  • Morning Tram & Bridge Tour 
  • Microlight & Helicopter Flights
  • Zambezi River White Water Rafting

Child Policy

This tour does take children.

There is a minimum age limit of 8 years of age, for travellers on scheduled departures, however, children aged 8 and 9 years of age are accepted on a request basis only.
A maximum of 4 children, aged between 10 - 15 years will be allowed per scheduled tour departure date.
Should there already be 4 children confirmed on a tour, any further children requests will be dealt with on a request basis only.

Age restrictions may apply to certain items listed in the respective tour activities and it is important that you are aware of these restrictions prior to confirming children on tour.

Please contact African Budget Safaris for further information.

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Botswana Safari Activities

  • Kalahari San Guided Walk
  • Okavango Delta Scenic Flight
  • Chobe National Park Game Drive

Zimbabwe Safari Activities

  • Victoria Falls National Park Entry
  • Zambezi Sunset Cruise
  • Bungee Jumping
  • Morning Tram & Bridge Tour 
  • Microlight & Helicopter Flights
  • Zambezi River White Water Rafting
+Included in the Tour Price
  • Overland tour transport
  • Lodge safari accommodation
  • Registered tour guides 
  • Meals as per the itinerary
  • Safari activities as indicated
+Not Included in the Tour Price
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal items and tips
  • Drinks and snacks
  • Optional activities
+Departure Dates

This tour is also conducted in German.  Please contact African Budget Safaris for departure dates.

Scheduled Tour Departures
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If you do not see departures listed for your dates, please do contact us for further info.

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Optional Extensions to this Tour

7 Day Cape Town to Namibia Safari (Lodge Africa Overland Tour)

Priced from pps R29750 $1573 £1246 €1458 A$2414 C$2129 NZ$2632 Full pricing info
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Namibia quiver tree A great Cape Town to Namibia Safari (Lodge Africa Overland Tour) from South Africa to Swakopmund via Namaqualand, Orange River, Fish River Canyon & Namib Desert

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