BOTSWANA & ZIMBABWE SAFARI

Above: Hippos lurk in the waters of the Okavango Panhandle.

Highlights

• Fly to the pristine Okavango Delta for bush walks with expert local guides.

• Learn about the conservation work of National Geographic’s Okavango Wilderness Project.

• Visit Painted Dog Conservation to learn how African wild dogs impacted by poaching are rehabilitated.

• Listen to Botswanan folklore during a festive dinner with a renowned local author in Maun.

DAYS 1–2 | VICTORIA FALLS, ZIMBABWE/ HWANGE NATIONAL PARK

Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included. The next day, opt to explore majestic Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Later, visit the headquarters of Painted Dog Conservation and learn about this nonprofit organization’s work to protect and rehabilitate injured painted dogs (also known as African wild dogs). Afterward, venture out on safari in Hwange National Park, one of Zimbabwe’s largest wildlife reserves and an important elephant sanctuary.

DAYS 3–5 | HWANGE NATIONAL PARK/ CHOBE NATIONAL PARK, BOTSWANA

Set out on a full-day safari through Hwange National Park, tracking the resident elephant and buffalo herds, as well as giraffes, lions, zebras, and rare African wild dogs. Depart the next day and cross the border into Botswana, arriving in Kasane—the gateway to stunning Chobe National Park. Enjoy a boat safari on the Chobe River in search of bathing elephants.

DAY 6 | KASANE/OKAVANGO DELTA

Take in the views on a scenic flight into the heart of the Okavango Delta. Climb into a mokoro (dugout canoe), and glide along the waterways around our remote camp to catch a first glimpse of the area’s abundant wildlife. Settle into comfortable tents, explore the camp, or opt to go for a swim. After lunch, embark on a wildlife cruise, watching for hippos and elephants as well as aquatic birds drawn by the region’s unique fish and insects. Enjoy a sundowner deck back at the camp before dinner under the stars.

DAY 7-8 | OKAVANGO DELTA

Experience a thrilling bush walk on Chief's Island in the Moremi Game Reserve, searching for various wildlife such as giraffe, zebra, and lion. Learn about the medicinal uses of native plants and trees, and enjoy free time to relax or observe wildlife. Later, take a boating activity or wildlife drive, and stargaze in the evening. The next day, go on morning and late afternoon wildlife excursions by boat, on foot, or by jeep. In between, enjoy the amenities at the camp, and keep an eye out for passing wildlife.

DAY 9 | OKAVANGO DELTA/MAUN

After an early-morning wildlife excursion, fly to Maun and meet with an expedition member on National Geographic's Okavango Wilderness Project. Later, enjoy a night of storytelling and traditional foods with local author Bonty Botumile, who shares her knowledge of the region's cultural history. End the night with a delicious meal and stories around a warm fire.

DAY 10 | MAUN

Depart at any time.

10 DAYS FROM $ 6,199 PER PERSON.

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: + $1,739

MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 12

Dates

2023: Departures available year-round

2024: Departures available year-round

Please visit our website for departure dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Arrival transfer, all transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. Optional activities are at an additional cost.

Accommodations

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (2 nights), Safari lodges/camps (7 nights), bush camp (1 night)

MEALS INCLUDED

9 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 8 dinners. Allow an additional $120–$160 per person for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION

Private vehicle, 4×4 safari vehicle, boat, mokoro, plane

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES

If you’re booked, you’re going.