Embark on a thrilling Botswana and Zimbabwe Safari, beginning and ending in Johannesburg, South Africa. This budget-friendly overland tour takes you through the Kalahari Desert, Okavango Delta, and renowned wildlife areas in Botswana and Zimbabwe.
Experience the wild Okavango Delta, where you can enjoy game walks, mokoro rides, and boat trips. Visit the Khamo Rhino Sanctuary and take 4x4 game drives in secluded private camps to spot Africa's Big Five. Spend a starlit night on the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans and cruise the Chobe River for wildlife. Visit the awe-inspiring world heritage site of Victoria Falls and experience Africa's adventure capital. See the renowned herds of elephants and buffalo in Hwange National Park and go rhino tracking in Matabo National Park. Spend a tranquil night at the Limopopo River then head back to Johannesburg where this unforgettable 16-day Botswana and Zimbabwe Safari will conclude.
__large.jpg "Botswana Safari, Moremi hippo by Michael Jansen")
Our 16-day Botswana & Zimbabwe Safari from Joburg to Victoria Falls begins bright and early at 06:30 AM as we depart from Johannesburg. Leaving Johannesburg, South Africa’s bustling trade and industrial hub, we head north towards the border with Botswana. Our journey takes us through the dry, rugged bushveld of the North West Province, eventually reaching the Martins Drift border post. There, we complete the necessary customs and immigration procedures before crossing into Botswana. Once across the border, we enter the vast and mesmerising Kalahari Desert plains, where the land stretches endlessly in all directions.
Today's journey covers a considerable distance, ultimately bringing us to the renowned Khama Rhino Sanctuary. Established in 1992, the Khama Rhino Sanctuary (KRS) is a vital, community-driven conservation project dedicated to protecting the declining rhino population, restoring a once-thriving wildlife area to its natural state, and fostering economic opportunities for the local Botswana community through sustainable tourism and resource management. The sanctuary spans approximately 8,585 hectares of Kalahari Sandveld, providing critical habitat for white and black rhinos, alongside over 30 other animal species and more than 230 bird species.
As the evening sets in, we will savour a delectable catered meal, and our guide will provide an exciting overview of the Botswana safari adventures ahead.
Our day begins early as we embark on the first of many exhilarating open-vehicle game drives on our Botswana Safari. This morning, we set off on an exciting exploration of the Khama Rhino Sanctuary. Our primary focus will be tracking rhinos and discovering the diverse wildlife that thrives in this remarkable and dynamic ecosystem. After this thrilling adventure, we return to camp for a well-deserved brunch.
Following our morning at the Khama Rhino Sanctuary, we continue our journey northward into the heart of the wilderness. Along the way, we pass through several remote villages, skirting the vast expanse of the Makgadikadi Salt Pans. The Makgadikadi Salt Pans are an immense network of salt pans in central Botswana, part of the Kalahari Desert, offering a surreal and striking landscape. Catch a glimpse of the iconic salt flats we will explore more intimately on Day 10 of our safari in Botswana.
The final leg of today's journey takes us along the Boteti River, to our overnight camp in Maun. Nestled along the riverbank, our next Botswana safari camp features expansive grounds with breathtaking views of the winding Boteti River, offering exceptional birdwatching opportunities. As evening descends, we enjoy a delicious dinner at camp and marvel at the sounds of grunting hippos filling the air.
On day three we depart from our Maun accommodation early in the morning and travel to the famous Okavango Delta. The next two days of our Botswana Safari are set aside for exploring the wild delta.
The enchanting Okavango Delta is a vast wetland that stretches from the Angolan Highlands to the Kalahari Desert. Originating in central Angola, the Okavango River meanders south and east, gradually slowing and expanding into one of the world’s few true inland deltas. Eventually, the river empties into the vast Makgadikgadi Salt Pans.
This remarkable transformation gives rise to an extraordinary ecosystem, teeming with life. The Okavango Delta, the largest inland delta in the world, comprises serene lagoons, winding channels, and secluded islands. Its rich and diverse environment supports a stunning variety of wildlife, birds, and plant species. Picture the graceful Jacana stepping delicately across blooming lilies, a Bee-Eater darting through the air to snatch an insect, and the haunting call of the African Fish Eagle echoing across the waterways—each moment a vivid part of nature's masterpiece. Among the delta’s more elusive inhabitants is the red lechwe antelope, renowned for their striking appearance and graceful movement through the marshes.
Our well-appointed delta camp, nestled on the edge of a vast lagoon, offers the perfect base for exploration. From here, there will be ample opportunity to immerse ourselves in this pristine wilderness, whether on foot, by mokoro (traditional dugout canoe), or simply soaking in the tranquil beauty of the delta. We’ll glide through narrow, reed-lined channels in Mekoro, trek across untouched islands, and enjoy picnics in the heart of the wild. Along the way, local guides—who have grown up in this unique environment—will share their intimate knowledge of the delta’s flora, fauna, and human history. Their insights will provide a rare, authentic perspective on the lives of the people who call this remote region of Botswana home.
Over the next two days of our safari in Botswana, there will also be plenty of time to relax—whether savouring the view from a wooden deck overlooking the lagoon with a refreshing drink, taking a walk through the wilderness with our guide, or cooling off in the pool. One afternoon, we’ll unwind with a scenic sunset cruise, watching the sky transform into a kaleidoscope of colours as the day gently fades into night.
Day 5 of our Botswana Safari begins with an early departure from the delta, returning to Maun. Upon arrival, seize the opportunity to embark on an optional scenic flight over the Okavango Delta (at your own expense). From the sky, you’ll be treated to breathtaking bird’s eye views of the delta's vast expanse, with the chance to spot the incredible wildlife that inhabits this unique Botswana wilderness from another perspective.
We head back to our accommodation in Maun arriving late in the afternoon, just in time for a refreshing swim and to relax while enjoying the spectacular sunset.
As the day winds down, we indulge in a delicious dinner, before retiring for the night. Before you drift off to sleep, remember to pack your bag and charge your devices, preparing for the upcoming four-night wild camping experience in Botswana's national parks.
Our thrilling sixth day on safari in Botswana begins with a hearty breakfast at camp, fueling us for the exciting game-viewing portion of our journey which promises to be one of the highlights of our Botswana Safari. Over the next four days, we are immersed in wildlife experiences as we embark on open-vehicle game drives and camp wild.
Travelling in well-equipped, open 4x4 Land Cruisers, and guided by our knowledgeable local Motswana guides, we journey through rugged national parks, where the roads are little more than sandy tracks. We travel light, carrying only our cameras, day packs, a picnic lunch, and refreshing drinks for the road. Throughout the day, we enjoy expansive game drives, stopping at hides and waterholes to observe the incredible wildlife.
As the golden light of sunset approaches, we reach our secluded bush camp along the serene banks of the Khwai River. Here, we set up camp with all the essentials, including bush showers and toilets, and gather around the warmth of the campfire. For the next four nights of our Botswana Safari, we’ll stay at an exclusive, private campsite that remains entirely undeveloped—it's as if we are the first to experience this untouched wilderness. We bring everything we need for a comfortable, yet authentic camping safari experience, ensuring we leave no trace of our stay.
Our route is flexible, guided by the seasonal movements of the migrating game. The Khwai River Area of Botswana is renowned for its exceptional game viewing, and we’ll embark on both morning and afternoon drives through its vibrant wetland areas. We also have the option to explore the renowned Moremi or Savuti reserves in pursuit of migrating herds. The region offers abundant game-viewing opportunities, with wildlife activity at every turn—just be sure to keep fruit safe from curious elephants, meat away from prowling hyenas, and all food securely stored to keep mischievous monkeys at bay.
The landscape here is wonderfully diverse, ranging from expansive plains dotted with stately palm trees to lush marshlands, and from thick Mopane woodlands to dense Acacia scrub. This variety of habitats creates the perfect environment for observing wildlife in its natural setting. Depending on the conditions in the national parks of Botswana, we may also venture into the vast expanse of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve or explore the unique beauty of the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park.
On our final morning on safari in the Khwai River area, we enjoy a relaxed game drive back to Maun. Upon arrival, we savour a delicious lunch at the Maun Lodge, beautifully situated along the tranquil banks of the Boteti River. This river is renowned for its unique ability to shift its direction, depending on seasonal rainfall and water levels.
After lunch, our Botswana & Zimbabwe Safari continues eastward toward the awe-inspiring Makgadikgadi Salt Pans. As we leave behind the golden expanses of grasslands, the landscape gradually transforms into the stark, white salt pans, stretching beneath an immense sky. The Makgadikgadi Salt Pans are one of the largest salt flats in the world, covering around 12,000 square kilometres (4,600 square miles). These vast pans are the remnants of an ancient lake, Lake Makgadikgadi, which once covered much of the region before drying up thousands of years ago, leaving behind the cracked salt flats we see today.
The Makgadikgadi Salt Pans are not only a remarkable geological feature but also hold profound ecological significance. During the rainy season, the pans fill with water, attracting thousands of migratory birds, including flamingos. The surrounding area, including the Ntwetwe Pan and the Sua Pan, is home to an array of wildlife, such as zebras, wildebeests, and other desert-adapted species, which come to graze on the lush grasses that emerge after the rains.
The region is celebrated for its stark beauty and surreal landscapes, offering a truly unique Botswana safari experience. It's a sought-after safari destination for those seeking adventure and a chance to explore one of Africa’s most distinctive environments. The Makgadikgadi Salt Pans are a key highlight in Botswana’s tourism, drawing travelers on safaris and desert expeditions alike. As the day winds down, we spend the night camping in splendid isolation, enveloped by the quiet grandeur of the landscape. For the more adventurous, there's the option to sleep under the stars, gazing up at the breathtaking expanse of the southern night sky.
In some seasons, the pans may not be easily accessible, and in such cases, we’ll camp near an intriguing elephant watering hole, offering a different yet equally captivating African safari experience.
Today, we journey north to the peaceful and picturesque Chobe River - our last Botswana safari destination. The Chobe River is a haven for hippos and crocodiles and draws some of the world's largest herds of elephants and buffalo. In the afternoon, we embark on an immersive boat cruise along the river within Chobe National Park. As we drift quietly along the shoreline, we’ll have the chance to approach animals coming to the river to drink, offering a rare opportunity to observe them up close in their natural habitat.
Later, we return to dry land, cross into Zimbabwe, and head to our Victoria Falls lodge where our Zimbabwe safari adventures begin. Ideally situated within walking distance of Victoria Falls waterfall and other nearby attractions, our accommodations serve as the perfect launchpad for exploring the awe-inspiring wonders of this renowned African destination.
Waking up in the adventure capital of Africa, we set out to explore the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls. It is known locally as "Mosi-oa-Tunya" which means "the smoke that thunders." According to ancient lore, this is the sacred place where Nyami Nyami, the Zambezi River God—a powerful snake spirit—seeks refuge. Your entry to the Falls is included in the tour price, allowing you to immerse yourself in its grandeur and explore the surrounding rainforest at your own pace.
In addition to Victoria Falls, there are plenty of other attractions to experience, such as a visit to a traditional tribal village or the bustling curio market. Victoria Falls is also renowned for its wide range of thrilling activities, from scenic flights over Vic Falls and boat trips along the Zambezi River to white-water rafting and bungee jumping. While these optional adventures come at an additional cost, they promise to satisfy anyone craving an adrenaline-filled experience.
We’ll stay at Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe for two nights, providing plenty of time to explore the town and choose the sights and activities that appeal to you most. This evening, we’ll enjoy dinner at a local restaurant (at your own expense). As night falls over Africa and the distant roar of Victoria Falls resonates in the background, we’ll raise a glass to the unforgettable memories of this incredible Botswana & Zimbabwe Safari.
Next, our Botswana & Zimbabwe Safari takes us to Hwange National Park. After breakfast, we embark on a scenic drive to the renowned Hwange region, where we will settle in at our safari camp, nestled within Zimbabwe’s premier game reserve.
Hwange National Park, one of Africa’s largest game reserves, is famous for its vast herds of elephants and buffalo, with more than 50,000 elephants calling the park home. The reserve also boasts over 100 mammal and 400 bird species, including frequent sightings of the elusive lion, leopard, and wild dog. Hwange is also known for its diverse ecosystems, with the vibrant, seasonal rain transforming the park into a lush paradise, while the dry season brings large herds of animals to the park's waterholes, making for spectacular wildlife viewing. The park's commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism ensures that its wildlife thrives
This afternoon, we’ll head out on an exciting open-vehicle game drive, guided by local experts who will share their deep knowledge of the Hwange National Park’s rich ecosystems. As we traverse the park's diverse landscapes, from vast savannahs to arid salt pans, we’ll have the opportunity to spot Hwange's abundant wildlife in its natural habitat. Whether it's a pride of lions lounging in the sun, a family of elephants making their way to a waterhole, or the colourful array of birdlife overhead, each moment offers a new adventure in one of Africa's most spectacular wilderness areas.
Today, we continue our Zimbabwe Safari south to Bulawayo, known for its wide, tree-lined streets and colonial charm. From there, we continue to the Matobo region where we will embark on an open-vehicle safari into Matobo National Park in the afternoon.
Matobo National Park, located in the southern part of Zimbabwe, is renowned for its dramatic granite landscapes, rich wildlife, and cultural significance. The park is famous for its unique and ancient rock formations, particularly the "balancing boulders" that dot the landscape. These impressive granite structures have been shaped over millions of years by erosion and are considered sacred by the local Ndebele people.
In addition to its epic geography, Matobo is a haven for wildlife. The park is particularly famous for its rhino population, both black and white, making it one of the best places in Zimbabwe to see these endangered animals. The park also shelters a variety of other animals, including leopards, baboons, antelope, and over 200 bird species, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike.
This extraordinary African park, known for its striking granite rock formations, offers a unique and exhilarating experience. After a scenic drive, we will leave the vehicle behind and embark on foot to track rhinos through the bush—an adventure that promises to be both thrilling and profoundly moving. The opportunity to encounter these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is a rare privilege, one that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.
Our accommodation for the night is perched atop a granite dome, surrounded by the park’s iconic balancing boulders. From this vantage point, we’ll enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Matobo Hills below, immersing ourselves in the serene beauty of this remarkable landscape. The quiet majesty of the surroundings creates the perfect atmosphere to reflect on the day's adventures.
We leave Matobo Hills after breakfast this morning and return to Botswana.
The final night of our Botswana & Zimbabwe Safari will be spent in Botswana, nestled on a private game reserve on the tranquil banks of the Limpopo River.
The Limpopo River, one of southern Africa's major rivers, flows across the southern part of Botswana, serving as an important water source for both wildlife and local communities. Known for its seasonal flow, the Limpopo often runs dry during the dry season, but during the rains, it swells, transforming the surrounding landscapes into a lush paradise. The river forms part of the border between Botswana and Zimbabwe and plays a vital role in the ecosystem, supporting a variety of plant and animal life.
As the sun sets, we’ll embark on one last walk along the river, allowing ourselves to fully immerse in the sights and sounds of the African bush. The rhythm of the river, the rustling of leaves, and the calls of distant wildlife will serve as a fitting soundtrack to our final moments in this remarkable African landscape. Enjoy the chance to reflect on your African safari and savour nature's raw beauty, as we observe wildlife in their natural habitat one last time.
We’ll conclude the day with a memorable farewell dinner in the bush, gathered around a crackling campfire. Surrounded by the vast expanse of the African landscape, this will be a night to remember, marking the perfect end to an unforgettable journey.
This morning, we say goodbye to Botswana after breakfast and cross the border into South Africa. We take a scenic drive through the picturesque Waterberg Mountains before making our way to the vibrant city of Johannesburg, Africa's economic powerhouse. Our 16-day Botswana & Zimbabwe Safari concludes upon our arrival in Johannesburg late in the afternoon.
Airport transfers and post-tour accommodation can be arranged through African Budget Safaris.
All travellers on this Botswana & Zimbabwe Safari are required to carry a valid passport and the necessary visas for South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana (obtained before travel). Seasonal Malaria precautions are necessary and are locally obtainable. A barrel bag or internal frame backpack is best suited for this trip (suitcases do not fit into the space provided).
A sleeping bag, towel, and pillow are required for this Budget African Safari. An extra tog bag or camera bag is advised. Spending money required will be for the restaurant meals, drinks, visas, tips curios, Zimbabwe airport tax (if applicable), airport transfer for fly-in clients only, and any other optional excursions.
All Botswana & Zimbabwe Safaris are accompanied by two professional guides for optimal efficiency, catering to a maximum of 14 people per vehicle. A flexible attitude and active participation on this tour will help us to help you get the best out of your trip.
This budget Botswana & Zimbabwe Safari is also available in a shorter Fly-in Botswana & Zimbabwe Safari version from Johannesburg to Victoria Falls. View the tour pricing information for more details.
For up-to-date and confirmed pricing info for optional items, please drop us an enquiry.
This tour does not take children.
All Johannesburg Departures | All Botswana Tours |
Travel from South Africa to top Botswana destinations - the Kalahari Desert, Okavango Delta, Chobe Park, Moremi Game Reserve, Savuti Marsh and Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, also visiting Victoria Fall in Zimbabwe, before returning to Johannesburg.
Join this incredible Big Five Safari across 3 countries. From Kruger and Zimbabwe's wildlife to Victoria Falls and Botswana, experience Africa's best at unbeatable value.
Combine the wild Okavango Delta, famous Kruger Park, game-rich Chobe & mighty Victoria Falls on this Experience Southern Africa Exclusive Budget Safari.
Highlights on the budget Kruger, Zimbabwe & Botswana Safari include Kruger Park, Zimbabwe Ruins, Matobo Hills, Hwange, Victoria Falls, Chobe and Okavango Delta.
More on this 16 Day Budget Lodge Safari
A diverse budget Botswana Wildlife Safari traveling overland from Kalahari to Delta to Makgadigadi Pans, Moremi Game Reserve, Okavango Delta, and Kalahari Desert
This budget South Africa Tour & Kruger Safari explores coasts, wildlife, cultures, and mountains. Visit Big 5 Kruger Park, Drakensberg, Garden Route & more - a diverse budget South Africa safari from Johannesburg to Cape Town.
This South Africa Safari is a budget Kruger & Private Reserve Overland Tour. An affordable 5-day Greater Kruger and Kruger Safari with lodge accommodation.
More on 5-Day South Africa Safari - Kruger & Private Reserve Overland Tour
Our team has the destination knowledge to help you plan an unforgettable African adventure. We're based in Cape Town and ready to help.
We can also plan you an affordable private group or tailor-made tour. We built our business on turning luxury travel into affordable travel.
