29 Day Vic Falls, Botswana, Namibia & South Africa Safari

For a varied, diverse, exciting and fulfilling holiday, one would  be hard pressed to find a country in Africa, or the world, which offers more. South Africa has it all, including wildlife, mountains, deserts, beaches, forests, numerous cultures, first world cities, untouched landscapes, casinos, amusement parks, exciting activities, excellent roads and infrastructure, off road 4 x 4 routes, fantastic food, good wine, great sports stadiums, incredible people and a triumphant history.

Although usually only used for quick stopovers by most travellers, Joburg is an exciting and vibrant city, with some excellent hotels, fantastic shopping facilities, loads of historic signifcance, and a flourishing sporting culture. With the launch of the Gautrain in 2010, the Sandton district is now only 10 minutes from the airport, and this places one in a position to easily access most of the city's highlights.

City Lodge Hotel at OR Tambo International Airport offers a convenient and comfortable sanctuary for both business and leisure travelers. Situated just a short walk from Africa's busiest airport and adjacent to the Gautrain Airport Station, it provides an ideal base for quick visits or relaxing layovers. With 365 well-appointed rooms, the hotel ensures a restful stay before or after flights. Guests can enjoy a spacious lobby lounge with real-time flight information, unlimited WiFi, and a variety of facilities designed for both productivity and relaxation. The hotel aims to make every guest's airport experience seamless and enjoyable. This hotel embodies "easy living" by combining accessibility with comprehensive amenities. Whether you are catching an early morning flight, have a layover, or are in Johannesburg for a brief business trip, the City Lodge Hotel at OR Tambo provides a hassle-free and comfortable environment. The on-site restaurant and bar, fitness room, and outdoor swimming pool offer opportunities to unwind, while the proximity to airport retailers and banking facilities adds to the convenience. Its strategic location and array of services make it a prime choice for travelers seeking efficiency and comfort at the airport.

Zimbabwe - a treasure trove of breathtaking wilderness, vibrant wildlife, and awe-inspiring natural wonders.   From the iconic Victoria Falls, where the mighty Zambezi River plunges into dramatic gorges, to the serene waters of Lake Kariba and the untamed beauty of Hwange and Mana Pools, Zimbabwe is a safari destination like no other. This remarkable country offers an unparalleled diversity of experiences. Explore the vast savannahs of Hwange National Park, home to one of the largest elephant populations in Africa, or paddle along the tranquil channels of the Lower Zambezi, where hippos and crocodiles linger at every turn. Thrill-seekers will delight in world-class canoeing and white-water rafting, while nature enthusiasts will revel in walking safaris led by some of Africa's most experienced guides. What truly sets Zimbabwe apart is its people. Warm, resilient, and welcoming, Zimbabweans add a unique vibrancy to every journey. Their deep connection to the land and dedication to conservation make every visit more meaningful. Whether you're drawn by the roar of Victoria Falls, the call of the wild, or the chance to experience one of Africa's most storied landscapes, Zimbabwe promises an adventure filled with wonder and unforgettable moments.

"Mosi Oa Tunya", or "The Smoke That Thunders", Victoria Falls are as magnificent on the 10th visit as they are on the 1st, and their thundering roar makes everything else seem strangely quiet once you leave them behind. As the mighty Zambezi flows over a chasm of 1 mile wide, and 110 metres high, to violently crash on the rocks below, the resultant spray is sent tens of metres up into the air, before it lands back down in a continuous rainfall.   The water then rushes through an opening of only 50 metres, as the Zambezi races further along, over churning rapids and through the deep Batoka Gorge. While the Falls are the major drawcard, there is a thriving tourist industry developed around them, with adventure activities of all forms being available. Tourism has been evident here ever since David Livingstone was the first European guided by the local tribes to this remarkable natural wonder.

Waterfalls Lodge, located in the heart of Victoria Falls, offers refined and accessible accommodation blending comfort and nature. Designed with a captivating waterfall theme, this sophisticated retreat immerses guests in the beauty of the surroundings. Just minutes from both Victoria Falls and the city center, the lodge provides easy access to adventure while serving as a peaceful haven for relaxation. The lodge embodies the Wild Horizons ethos of sustainability and authenticity, with thoughtful design inspired by the Zambezi and Victoria Falls.

Today begins with a private guided tour of the spectacular Victoria Falls, where you will learn about the history and local flora of this Natural Wonder. In the late afternoon, you will board the Zambezi Explorer for the Signature Deck experience, enjoying sundowner drinks and snacks as you cruise along the river looking for hippos and crocodiles.

Well known as one of the great safari destinations in Africa, Botswana offers some of the most beautiful, luxurious, and active safari experiences in Africa. A Botswanan safari can never be long enough, and never experienced often enough.   Although one of the flattest countries you will ever visit, Botswana is blessed with an incredible variety of landscapes and eco-systems. It is the very flatness of Botswana which has created some of the world's most special wilderness areas, and exploring the Kalahari, Okavango Delta and Makgadikgadi Salt Pans rewards you with memories for a lifetime. Easily accessible from Johannesburg, and simply combined with Victoria Falls, Botswana needs to be on your safari list if you are planning a visit to Southern Africa. As soon as you land in Maun or Kasane, you will know that you have arrived in a country which operates like nothing you have experienced before. With the warthogs running through the streets of Kasane, and the hippos grunting in the Chobe River, your welcome to Botswana is one which tells you straight away you are in Africa's wilds.

Accessed easily via a 1.5 hour flight from Johannesburg, or a 1 hour drive from Victoria Falls, Chobe National Park is the most visited park on a Boswana safari itinerary. With an enormous elephant population, as well as magnificent birdlife and a huge array of herbivores and aquatic animals, it is often hard to believe that Chobe National Park is for real. The game viewing starts from the moment you land at Kasane Airport, or drive across the border from Zambia or Zimbabwe, with warthogs foraging in the streets, buffalo being habitual visitors to the town, and hippos lazing around in the river.

Nestled on Impalila Island in Namibia, Ichingo Chobe River Lodge is a tented lodge enveloped by breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife, and exceptional fishing conditions. The lodge features eight spacious, air-conditioned Meru safari tents, each set on a secluded island beneath a riverine canopy on the banks of the Chobe River. It's an ideal destination for families, welcoming children of all ages to experience the magic of the African wilderness. Enjoy generous hospitality and riverside relaxation in this unique setting. Ichingo Chobe River Lodge by Mantis offers an immersive eco-lodge experience, combining luxury with a deep respect for nature. Guests can savor delicious meals prepared with seasonal local ingredients, indulge in refreshing drinks at the lodge bar, and embark on unforgettable lodge experiences. From photographic river safaris and guided birding tours to exciting tiger fishing expeditions and cultural tours, there's an adventure for everyone. The lodge is strategically located amidst dense forests, where the massive Chobe River teems with all types of wildlife and bird species, offering both tranquil retreats and thrilling encounters with nature.

You have a full day to enjoy the activities offered by the lodge, including exploring the Chobe River's intricate channels by tender boat for exceptional bird watching and game viewing, or perhaps trying your hand at catch-and-release tiger fishing. Your stay includes all meals, local beverages, and scheduled activities.

The very word "Okavango" evokes a sense of adventure and exploration, and this is exactly what the Okavango Delta is about.   Often called the Okavango Swamps, this intricate maze of waterways and sandy islands is an explorer's dream, and the destination should be on the wishlist of anyone looking for a unique travel experience. The geology of the Delta is fascinating, with its creation being attributed to tectonic plate action from thousands of years ago causing the Kavango River to flow from Angola into the Kalahari Desert as opposed to the Atlantic Ocean. So while the vegetation is lush, and the wildlife plentiful, the waterways are actually cutting through Kalahari Desert sand, and the entire delta is an enormous oasis. Termites are credited with the creation of the many islands around which the water slowly flows, as their mounds, common features of the landscape, are responsible for the formation of sand and foliage around them. There is a continuous scurry of life in the Delta, from the smallest of creatures to the largest of elephants, and every twist and turn of the channels brings some new form of  life into view.   The Okavango Delta is truly one of nature's greatest creations.

MmaTsebe Camp offers a secluded and authentic safari experience on 25 hectares of private land along the Mbudi River, a tributary of the Khwai. This owner-run camp provides a peaceful retreat bordering the Moremi Game Reserve, ensuring access to iconic wildlife areas while maintaining an accessible price point. Guests can enjoy thrilling game drives through both Moremi and the Khwai Concession, as well as unique activities like mokoro excursions and the "Sitatunga's Edge" boat trip. The camp's heart is an airy canvas-on-deck space housing dining and lounging areas, complemented by a refreshing plunge pool and a cozy boma for evening coffees and nightcaps. For those needing to connect, a Wi-Fi lounge is available without detracting from the immersive bush experience. Accommodation consists of nine private Meru-style en-suite tents nestled amongst mopane trees, each featuring plush bedding, a mosquito net, ceiling fan, double vanity bathroom with flush loo and hot shower, plug points, a desk, seating, and a shaded deck with river views. Its location, just a 20-minute drive from Khwai Airstrip, makes it convenient yet wonderfully remote, offering sweeping views and a truly characterful setting.

Today offers a highlight of your delta stay with the Sitatunga's Edge Day Trip, which includes a helicopter flight over the intricate waterways. This aerial perspective provides a unique view of the landscape and wildlife before you continue exploring the diverse habitats by vehicle or boat.

Your final full day in the delta is spent on the varied activities offered by the camp, such as morning and afternoon game drives or mokoro excursions. This is a wonderful opportunity to focus on the smaller details of the bush and the incredible birdlife found in this region.

Out-of-this-world landscapes and panoramas make Namibia a photographer's dream destination. While not as much of a wildlife destination as other countries, Namibia makes up for this with phenomenal scenery, cultures and activities. Namibia is a desolate and largely uninhabitable country, well-known mainly for its deserts and coastline. However, there is far more to the destination. Namibia is home to some fascinating people, and in the right season, can provide you with some of the best game viewing on the continent. When travelling Namibia, the distances are vast, and often you will go without seeing another vehicle, or person, for hours. Around every bend of the road awaits another breathtaking landscape, with wide open spaces and incredible colours giving you photo opportunities at all times of day. Below are a few of the popular areas frequented by travellers to Namibia, and they are places which will remain in your memories forever:

Nestled in Namibia’s central highlands, Windhoek is a vibrant blend of African spirit and European charm. Its tree-lined streets, colonial architecture and lively markets create a welcoming atmosphere, while modern cafés and craft boutiques showcase a creative energy. As the gateway to Namibia’s wild landscapes, Windhoek is the perfect place to relax after a long flight or prepare for your safari adventure, offering comfort, culture and a warm Namibian welcome.

Galton House, a charming urban retreat in Windhoek, Namibia, offers a relaxed yet efficient atmosphere. Adorned with impressive wildlife photography and a blend of modern minimalistic and understated chic interiors, the property provides a welcoming ambiance. Guests can enjoy a tranquil stay with friendly service, just a ten-minute drive from the city center. The communal areas feature a spacious lounge, indoor and outdoor dining, a swimming pool, and serene garden areas. Freshly prepared meals are served, including delightful `al fresco` dining by the pool. Shops, restaurants, and supermarkets are conveniently located nearby.

Meaning "Place of Dry Water," Etosha is the best wildlife destination in Namibia, and at certain times of year can rival any game reserve in Africa. Formed around the enormous and beautiful Etosha Salt Pan, the national park is home to an incredible number of species, including black rhino, the endemic black faced impala, thousands upon thousands and springbok, zebra, wildebeest and the majestic gemsbok (oryx). During the dry season, these animals are drawn in their masses to the very few remaining water holes, and it is not uncommon to see a few hundred of several different species all in one location at one time. Being roughly a 5 hour drive from Windhoek, Etosha National Park is also accessible by air, and is definitely a highlight of a Namibian safari itinerary.

Etosha Village offers an unparalleled safari experience combining affordability with comfort in a private reserve located directly adjacent to Etosha National Park, just 2km from the Okaukuejo entrance. Guests can immerse themselves in nature with expertly guided game drives, walking tours, and stargazing sessions. The lodge boasts 55 comfortable accommodation units and camping facilities, complemented by exquisite dining, sparkling pools, and a unique bar. It's the perfect base for nature lovers seeking to explore Namibia's renowned animal kingdom. With a strong emphasis on harmonizing luxury with the natural surroundings, Etosha Village provides a serene escape for an unforgettable African adventure. The property prides itself on excellent service and highly acclaimed buffet cuisine, ensuring a delightful stay for every guest. It's an ideal destination for those who appreciate prime location, diverse activities, and a comfortable retreat after a day of exploration. Etosha Village truly encapsulates the magic of the Namibian wilderness while offering all the modern comforts. From individual units with spacious bedrooms and en-suite bathrooms to shaded patios, every detail contributes to a relaxing and enjoyable stay. For an even more immersive experience, guests can opt for a magnificent Boma Dinner Experience in the Mopane Forest, adding a touch of enchantment to their visit. This blend of adventure, comfort, and exceptional service makes Etosha Village a standout choice for travelers to Etosha National Park.

These two days are dedicated to exploring the vast Etosha National Park with your guide. You will visit various waterholes where wildlife congregates against the backdrop of the immense white salt pan, searching for lions, elephants, and the endemic black-faced impala. Your guide will provide deep insights into the animal behavior and ecology of this unique semi-arid environment.

One of the most scenic areas of Namibia, situated roughly in the centre of the country, Damaraland has a vast range of  landscapes and experiences to offer. With enormously wide open spaces, endless wastelands, and some beautiful mountains and inselbergs, Damaraland can occupy a number of days of a Namibian itinerary.   Named after the Damara people who were moved into the area during the years of apartheid in South Africa, you can enjoy cultural experiences with the local tribes along your journey. Namibia is a geologist's delight, and with prehistoric water courses, massive granite koppies and deep gorges, Damaraland has some fascinating features which will keep the camera occupied.

Grootberg Lodge, perched on the Etendeka Plateau, offers unparalleled views of the Klip River Valley. This lodge, owned by the local conservancy, seamlessly blends breathtaking natural beauty with the warmth of authentic community hospitality. As the flagship lodge of Journeys Namibia, it provides a unique and immersive safari experience. Accommodation at Grootberg Lodge ranges from cozy double and twin rooms to spacious family and triple rooms, all designed to provide comfort after a day of adventure. Guests can delve into a variety of activities, from tracking elusive desert-adapted elephants and rhinos to enjoying scenic sundowner drives and guided night walks. The lodge is deeply committed to responsible tourism, supporting the local #Khoadi //Hoas Conservancy and offering guests opportunities to engage with Damara culture. For those seeking a more rustic experience, the nearby Hoada Campsite & Tented Camp offers peaceful wilderness camping amidst granite boulders and mopane trees. This community-run site also provides a unique Damara farmlife experience, further enriching the cultural immersion.

Today is spent exploring the harsh but beautiful Damaraland terrain. Depending on local conditions, you may join a guided search for desert-adapted elephants or visit the local community to learn about life in this remote region. The area's geological formations and ancient history make every excursion fascinating.

A delightful and historic old German town, Swakopmund is the recreation capital of Namibia, and offers an enormous number of ways to enjoy the surrounding Namib Desert, as well as the Atlantic Ocean. Founded as a harbour for the Germans during their colonial ownership of South West Africa, Swakopmund is closely connected with marine activities and wildlife.   Some fantastic seafood can be enjoyed in one of the many restaurants.

The Swakopmund Guesthouse, a family-run establishment, offers a warm and welcoming retreat for travelers. Nestled in a charming environment and conveniently located near excellent restaurants, it provides an ideal base for exploring Swakopmund. The guesthouse emphasizes personalized service, sustainability through solar power, and a commitment to ensuring a memorable guest experience. Its prime location offers easy access to both the beach and downtown Swakopmund, blending modern comfort with eco-conscious hospitality. Guests can choose from a variety of well-appointed rooms including Standard, Luxury, and a spacious Suite, all designed for rest and rejuvenation. The guesthouse caters to families with specific child rates, making it an inclusive option for all travelers. With its friendly staff, comfortable accommodations, and a focus on impeccable service, Swakopmund Guesthouse truly feels like a home away from home by the sea. Beyond the comfort of the guesthouse, Swakopmund provides a rich tapestry of activities. From thrilling desert adventures like sandboarding and quad biking to serene coastal experiences such as dolphin cruises and sea kayaking, there is something for every explorer. The guesthouse staff are readily available to assist with booking these diverse activities, ensuring guests can fully immerse themselves in the unique blend of desert and sea that defines this captivating old-world town.

You have a full day at leisure in Swakopmund to explore the town's German colonial architecture or participate in optional adventures like a dolphin cruise in nearby Walvis Bay or a living desert tour. Your guide and vehicle remain at your disposal for local exploration and transfers. 

One of the driest places on earth, with some of the world's highest sand dunes, the Namib Desert experience is one which will remain in your memories forever.   With the night skies being overwhelmingly pierced with stars, and the sunrises and sunsets casting the most gorgeous colours over the dunes, the Namib will enchant you in many ways. Stretching about 1 200 kilometres along the west coast of Southern Africa, but only averaging about 70 kilometres in width, the Namib creates the most desolate of coastlines.  It is unbelievable that anything can survive in these harsh sands, however, many fascinating creatures and plants eke out an existence from the little resources available. Amazing too is that San Bushmen have tackled this environment for hundreds of years, and succeeded!

Desert Quiver Camp offers a unique blend of modern self-catering accommodation with comfort and style, merely 5km from the iconic Sossusvlei. Guests can immerse themselves in inspiring scenery, characterized by granite outcrops, spectacular views, and roaming wildlife. The camp provides a serene base for exploring the Namib Desert, allowing for an unforgettable African adventure. The 24 self-catering units are thoughtfully designed, featuring spacious air-conditioned bedrooms, en-suite bathrooms, and private patios with BBQ facilities. With the convenience of a fitted kitchenette and the option to order fresh food supplies, guests have the flexibility to dine at their leisure. The camp also boasts excellent communal facilities including a sparkling swimming pool, a fully stocked bar, and boma areas perfect for groups. Beyond the comfort of the camp, guests have easy access to the Sossusvlei Lodge restaurant and Adventure Centre for diverse dining and exciting desert activities. From exploring the towering red dunes to stargazing under the clear Namibian sky, Desert Quiver Camp provides an idyllic and convenient gateway to the wonders of the Namib.

This morning will be an early start as you enter the park at sunrise to visit Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. You will have the opportunity to climb the iconic Big Daddy dune or walk among the ancient leadwood trees of Deadvlei before visiting the interesting geological formations of Sesriem Canyon. You will return to the lodge for a relaxed afternoon.

Scenically spectacular, with an array of activities on offer, Cape Town is great for an extended holiday on its own, or for an add on to a safari in South Africa, or any other countries. As an easy 2 hour hop from Johannesburg, with numerous daily flights, as well as some international flights from and to various countries, Cape Town is easily accessible, and an enjoyable way to ease into, or wind down, an African itinerary. Cape Town has regularly been voted amongst the world's most popular holiday destinations, with many visitors returning year after year.

The Portswood Hotel is uniquely situated at the entrance to the historic V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. This elegant hotel seamlessly blends history with modern comfort, offering guests an unforgettable stay. Its distinctive public areas are built around a 300-year-old well and the original holding cells for prisoners en route to Robben Island, providing a profound sense of place and a journey through time. From its prime location, guests can easily explore the vibrant waterfront, enjoy exquisite dining, and access key city attractions. The Portswood Hotel offers a sophisticated and historically rich experience for both leisure and business travelers seeking to immerse themselves in Cape Town's heritage and contemporary allure. With its captivating past and present-day luxury, the hotel promises a stay that is both enriching and deeply memorable. Its convenient access to the V&A Waterfront ensures that guests have the best of Cape Town right at their doorstep. For those seeking cultural immersion, the historical elements within the hotel itself offer a unique narrative that complements the city's broader history. This blend of comfort, convenience, and historical significance makes The Portswood Hotel a distinguished choice for any visitor to Cape Town.

These three days allow you to explore the "Mother City" at your own pace. While staying at the V&A Waterfront, you are perfectly positioned to visit Table Mountain, take a boat to Robben Island, or explore the varied markets and historical sites of the city. Cape Town's world-class dining and vibrant culture offer endless opportunities for discovery.   You will be able to explore the Cape Peninsula as well as take a day trip into the nearby winelands.

The unspoiled Cape Whale Coast is embraced by majestic mountains and the Atlantic Ocean. This entire region is celebrated for its abundant whale sightings, especially within the Walker Bay region spanning from Hermanus to Gansbaai. These magnificent creatures venture into the bay for mating and birthing purposes, delighting observers with their captivating displays of breaching antics. Hermanus is rich in breathtaking scenery; with its unparalleled scenic beauty, modern infrastructure, upmarket shops and endless adventure options, it is no wonder that Hermanus is transformed into a bustling hubbub of activity in-season as well as out-of-season. For any intrepid tourist or appreciator of nature's wonders, Hermanus is the ideal location for an unforgettable experience.

Auberge Burgundy is a charming Provençal-style boutique hotel and spa, centrally located on the seafront promenade of Hermanus. It offers picturesque views of the Old Harbour and the spectacular Walker Bay, renowned for its natural beauty and exceptional whale watching opportunities. Originally an old fishing village, Hermanus gained fame as the "Riviera of the South" in the 1920s, attracting European tourists seeking its crisp "champagne air." Today, Auberge Burgundy upholds this legacy of hospitality, providing a serene and elegant retreat for discerning travelers.

Winding through the heart of the Western Cape, Route 62 is South Africa’s answer to America’s Route 66 — but with more wine, more charm, and breathtaking landscapes at every turn. This iconic road trip stretches from Cape Town to Oudtshoorn and beyond, taking travellers through picturesque towns like Montagu, Barrydale, and Calitzdorp. Expect rolling vineyards, dramatic mountain passes, quirky farm stalls, and warm Karoo hospitality along the way. Whether you're chasing adventure or simply soaking up the scenery, Route 62 promises an unforgettable journey through South Africa’s soul.

Nestled at the foot of the Swartberg mountains lies the eternal charm of the Swartberg Country Manor. A peaceful getaway into a world of serene beauty and relaxation. As an endearing home away from home, our desire is that our guests encounter a timeless escape amidst an impressive landscape that features the tallest mountains in the Western Cape. Enjoy a tranquil escape from busy life in an area of unspoiled natural beauty.

You have a full day to explore the surrounding area, perhaps driving the spectacular Swartberg Pass or visiting the Cango Caves. The manor offers a peaceful retreat where you can enjoy the quiet beauty of the mountains and local hospitality.

Running from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth, with rugged mountain ranges separating the forested coastline from the harsh, vast landscapes of the Karoo, the Garden Route has a host of enchanting towns, bays and beaches. It is the ideal location for a family holiday, being simple to self-drive, and allowing pure relaxation. With 2 main airports servicing the Garden Route, it is easy to access, but once there, it is hard to leave!

Longhope in Plett offers an exclusive and luxurious self-catering experience in the heart of Plettenberg Bay. Nestled in a picturesque setting, this property provides the perfect blend of tranquility and adventure, making it an ideal escape for families and groups seeking an unforgettable South African getaway. Guests can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Western Cape while enjoying the comforts of a private and well-appointed home. The lodge boasts breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere, promising a rejuvenating stay. Its prime location allows for easy access to Plettenberg Bay's renowned attractions, from its pristine beaches to its vibrant culinary scene. Longhope in Plett is more than just accommodation; it's a gateway to an authentic and enriching experience. The spacious and elegantly designed interiors provide a seamless blend of modern amenities and classic charm. Each detail has been carefully curated to ensure a comfortable and indulgent stay. The property features ample living areas, private outdoor spaces, and all the conveniences needed for a self-catering holiday. Whether you are seeking adventure or relaxation, Longhope in Plett provides a sophisticated sanctuary where cherished memories are made. The attentive service and personalized touches ensure that every guest feels right at home, making it a truly exceptional destination.

Along with spending time with Courtnay and family, these final two days are yours to relax or explore the Garden Route as you wish. You might visit the nearby Knysna Heads, walk the trails of Tsitsikamma National Park, or simply enjoy the sun on one of the many blue-flag beaches in the area. The flexibility of your rental car allows you to discover the hidden gems of the coast at your leisure.