African Wildlife Explorer

African Wildlife Explorer

tourhub | World Expeditions | African Wildlife Explorer | TKL
tourhub | World Expeditions | African Wildlife Explorer | TKL tourhub | World Expeditions | African Wildlife Explorer | TKL

+3

 tourhub | World Expeditions | African Wildlife Explorer | TKL

+2

 tourhub | World Expeditions | African Wildlife Explorer | TKL

+1

 tourhub | World Expeditions | African Wildlife Explorer | TKL | Map
59 Views
20 Days From

$4896

African Wildlife Explorer

20 Days Starting in Cape Town and ending in Victoria Falls

Visiting: South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana

Tour operator:

World Expeditions

Tour code:

TKL

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

4 - 16

Physical rating:

Adventure touring

From: $4896

NB: Prices correct on 09-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

From the vast dunes of the Namibian desert, to the teeming animal life of Etosha, this itinerary traverses the greatest parks, rivers and landscapes that Africa’s south has to offer. Beginning in Cape Town we head north, passing through the Namaqualand region, and witness the Orange River plummet 56m over Augrabies Falls. We travel into the starkly beautiful Kalahari and spend two nights in Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. At the extremities of the vast Namib Desert we marvel at Fish River Canyon, second largest in the world, and observe wildlife in Etosha National Park. Continuing our journey through the Caprivi Strip and via the Kavango River into Botswana, be part of unforgettable wildlife encounters in two of Africa's greatest sanctuaries in the wondrous Okavango Delta and along the Chobe River. The mighty Victoria Falls provide a sensational backdrop to a multitude of adventurous options and a fitting end to this amazing journey through southern Africa. Staying in a combination of small hotels, safari lodges and guesthouses full of character (and with ensuite facilities), this journey will appeal to those seeking a comfortable African travel experience.

Highlights

  • Experience the Okavango Delta by traditional canoe (mokoro)

  • Walking among the giant dunes of Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert

  • Experience game drives in Etosha National Park and Chobe National Park

  • Game viewing cruise on the Chobe River

  • Be captivated by the magnificent Victoria Falls

  • Discover Cape Town, Table Mountain and the Cape of Good Hope

  • Enjoy game drives in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

  • Marvel at the grandeur of Fish River Canyon

  • Soak up the scenic beauty of the Namaqualand region

Itinerary

tourhub | World Expeditions | African Wildlife Explorer | TKL | Route Map

Not what you're looking for?

People that have booked this tour have also searched for the following:

Tours in South Africa Tours in Zimbabwe Tours in Namibia
Expand All

Day 1 : Cape Town

The tour starts on Day 1 with a pre departure meeting at 18:00 in the lobby of the hotel. Set against the majestic Table Mountain, recently selected as one of the New 7 Natural Wonders of the world, Cape Town offers scenic, historic and cultural attractions. Dinner can be enjoyed at the bustling Waterfront at your own expense. Overnight Breakwater Lodge (or similar accommodation).

Day 2 : Cape Town Peninsula Tour

After breakfast, we depart from the hotel at 08:00am, for a full day peninsula tour. Driving along the Atlantic seaboard via Hout Bay and Chapman’s Peak, we visit the Table Mountain National Park – Cape Point, returning along the Indian Ocean coastline back to our well-situated Waterfront hotel. A morning or afternoon cable car ascent up Table Mountain is included (weather dependent). Dinner can be enjoyed at the bustling Waterfront at your own expense. Overnight Breakwater Lodge (or similar accommodation).

Day 3 : Namaqualand (Approx 425 Kms/7 Hrs Drive)

Departing Cape Town we pass through the picturesque Namaqualand region. We overnight at the foot of the Van Ryns Pass. During the months of August – October the landscape is transformed into an explosion of colour due to the prolific wild flowers of the region. Outside this period, the normally arid landscape is naturally stunning in any case with a beautiful mountain backdrop. Overnight Highlanders Guesthouse (or similar).

Day 4 : Augrabies Falls National Park (Approx 450 Kms/6 Hrs Drive)

Leaving the Little Karoo we head north to the Augrabies Falls National Park, passing through a lush oasis area en route with an abundance of wineries. The Falls occur where the mighty Orange River plummets 56m into the gorge below. The local name for these majestic falls is ‘Aukoerebis’ or ‘place of great noise’. We spend the afternoon enjoying the Falls from the many viewpoints. Overnight Vergelegen Guest House (or similar).

Day 5 : Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park (Approx 370 Kms/5 Hrs Drive)

Leaving Augrabies Falls National Park we head north into the Kalahari and the magnificent Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. Covering over 3.6 million hectares this is one of the largest reserves in Africa. Due to sparse vegetation in the area excellent predator sightings are common including that of the famous black maned Lion. We enjoy morning and afternoon game drives inside the park. Overnight Kgalagadi Lodge (or similar).

Day 7 : Fish River Canyon (Approx 495 Kms/7 Hrs Drive)

Leaving the Kalahari region we head west and enter Namibia. The drive is quite long but allows an appreciation of the vastness of this region. We are rewarded by the scenic beauty surrounding our lodge. In the afternoon or early next morning we visit the Fish River Canyon. Second only to the Grand Canyon in size, it is a truly awe-inspiring work of nature. Overnight Canyon Village or Canyon Roadhouse (or similar).

Day 8 : Sesriem And Sossusvlei (Approx 520 Kms/7 Hrs Drive)

Our journey takes us north through ever changing scenery to our accommodation located on the edge of the Namib Desert. The following morning is an early departure driving 70 kms (1 hr; one-way) through the dune belt to witness the phenomenal colours of the world’s highest sand dunes. We take on a 5km walk to Sossusvlei and Deadvlei, remarkably beautiful for such a harsh environment. In the afternoon we enjoy a short hike through the Sesriem Canyon, a natural canyon about 1km long and 30 metres deep in places. Overnight Desert Quiver Camp (or similar).

Day 10 : Swakopmund (Approx 380 Kms/5 Hrs Drive)

We reach the coast at Walvis Bay and enjoy lunch while viewing the many flamingos feeding. We arrive in Swakopmund and spend the afternoon exploring this German colonial town. Overnight: The Delight (or similar).

Day 11 : Damaraland (Approx 380 Kms/7 Hrs Drive)

We drive inland through the Damaraland region with its vast and rugged terrain. Its mountain ranges are intercepted by wide gravel plains, which run into sandy, vegetated riverbeds and hot, dry valleys. Our lodge is located on top of a mountain with spectacular views of the surrounding area. Spend the afternoon taking in the incredible setting or simply relaxing by the pool. Overnight Ugab Terrace Lodge (or similar).

Day 12 : Etosha National Park (Approx 220 Kms/3 Hrs Drive)

Today we proceed to Etosha National Park where we enjoy our first game drive in open 4x4 vehicles from our lodge located just outside the park entrance. The park’s main characteristic is a salt pan so large it can be seen from space. Yet there is abundant wildlife that congregates around the waterholes. Overnight Etosha Village (or similar accommodation).

Day 13 : Etosha National Park (150 Kms)

Etosha National Park is one of the most important reserves and game sanctuaries in Africa with thousands of wild animals such as blue wildebeest, springbok, zebra, kudu, giraffe, cheetah, leopard, lion and elephant make this area their home. The day is spent on game drive in open 4x4 vehicles from our lodge located just outside the park entrance. Overnight Etosha Village (or similar).

Day 14 : Kavango River (Approx 430 Kms/6 Hrs Drive)

We enter the Caprivi Strip (Zambezi region) where we spend the night set amongst the lush vegetation overlooking the Okavango River. Sunset from the deck is sensational. An optional afternoon boat cruise on the river is available (own expense). Overnight Hakusembe River Lodge (or similar).

Day 15 : Okavango Delta (Approx 320 Kms/5 Hrs Drive; Plus 2-3 Hour Boat Trip)

Continuing into the Caprivi we cross into Botswana and travel by road to our lodge on the edge of the Okavango Delta. The following day we transfer by boat 30 minutes into the Delta. We do mokoro and boat excursions in the back channels of the Nxamasire area of the Delta. Game walks are also done on the smaller islands in the area subject to water levels of the Delta. Overnight Swampstop chalets (or similar).

Day 17 : Chobe River (Approx 250 Kms/4 Hrs Drive)

Crossing into Botswana via the Chobe National Park we overnight on the banks of the Chobe River. Chobe is famous for its beautiful scenery, magnificent sunsets and abundance of wildlife and birdlife. The following day we take in a morning Game Drive and relax on a sunset game-viewing cruise on the Chobe River. Overnight Chobe Safari Lodge (or similar).

Day 19 : Victoria Falls (Approx 90 Kms/3 Hrs Drive)

We travel across the Zimbabwe border to view Victoria Falls - one of the most revered and spectacular sights in Africa. Days are spent at leisure to browse the local markets, to experience the many optional activities on offer, and to visit the actual Falls (own expense). Overnight Sprayview Hotel (or similar).

Day 20 : In Victoria Falls, Trip Concludes

Tour ends after breakfast in Victoria Falls.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    19 nights hotel/lodge/guesthouse

  • 19 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 14 dinners

  • 19 nights in 3-4 star hotels, lodges and guesthouses on a twinshare basis

  • English speaking local guide

  • Private transport in custom built expedition vehicle

  • Chobe River game cruise

  • Game drives and sightseeing as listed in itinerary

  • National park and conservation fees valued at US$150

  • Okavango Delta excursions

  • Arrival and departure transfers are included in Cape Town and Victoria Falls on Days 1 & 20. (NB - Victoria Falls Airport Zimbabwe (VFA) only; and NOT Livingstone Airport Zambia).

  • International flights

show more

What's Not Included

  • In 2022 - Arrival and departure transfers are NOT included

  • Arrival and departure transfers to/from Livingstone Airport (LVI) Zambia, or on any other day other than Days 1 & 20, are NOT included

Accommodation

19 nights hotel/lodge/guesthouse
All accommodation for this tour is in 3 to 4 star comfortable safari lodges and permanent tented camps full of character, based on twin share rooms with private ensuite facilities.
Note that a single supplement is compulsory for this trip if you are travelling alone. If you prefer to share, please advise us at time of booking and we will try to match you with another person of the same gender and also willing to share. This is rarely possible but if a match does happen we will be able to refund the single supplement approx 4 weeks prior to departure.

What You Carry

In your daypack you will need to carry extra warm clothing (it can be very cold on early morning activities), a rainjacket, water bottle, camera gear, valuables and personal items such as sunscreen, lip balm etc.

Grading

Although there is no commitment to extended walking on this journey we nonetheless want to keep the ‘accent on the active’. We therefore advise that any physical training you complete before undertaking the trip will be to good effect. Although our day walks are optional there is no shortage of advantages of packing as much into your time in Southern Africa as possible. Whether this includes climbing the sand dunes in Namibia or taking part in the adventure activities at Victoria Falls, the fitter you are the more this will enhance your experience.

Wildlife

The wilderness areas of Africa are populated by large numbers of wild and potentially dangerous animals. The trip aims to view these animals in their natural habitat, uncontrolled by fences. Your experienced guides will make every effort to ensure the safety of the group at all times. Please be aware that all safari travel, including vehicle safaris in the proximity of wild animals is never entirely without risk. By travelling into wild areas in search of wild animals, all participants accept that they are choosing an adventure that includes an element of risk and this is an inherent aspect of the enjoyment of this style of travel.

Check out our Q&As

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    We have offices on three continents which means your travelling companions will be just that – international and wonderfully eclectic. Part of small group travel means that although travellers come from various locations and backgrounds, you will be travelling with like-minded companions who, like you, are keen to share the experience and forge lifelong friendships.

  • What about environmental impact?

    We believe that adventure travel revolves around establishing a strong relationship with the people and environments in which we operate. Our responsible travel policies have been carefully developed to ensure that we minimise the impact of our presence and help to protect the regions we visit while contributing positively to the local community.

  • What should I pack?

    Your pre-departure documents include a detailed packing list with items that you need to bring. While most of the equipment for daily activities is included in your tour cost, some items like helmets and hiking boots are best brought from home. The pre-departure documents also include information on layering and recommended brands for various items to ensure you are fully prepared for your trip.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Yes. World Expeditions does not require single travellers to pay a surcharge for travelling alone on the vast majority of our trips. Our holidays are primarily on a twin share basis, so if you are joining the group as a solo traveller, we will match you with someone of your own gender. The choice is yours however; if you prefer not to share, we do offer single supplements for private occupancy.

  • Are tips included in my trip price?

    Tips are not included in the tour cost. Tipping is a personal thing, do not worry about how much, or when, to tip. Tipping guidelines are provided for certain destinations in our pre departure information upon booking, however the best advice will be provided by your tour leader.

  • Am I suited to small-group travel?

    We recognise that many of our travellers have not been on a ‘group trip’ before. Yet what our departures provide is both structure and flexibility, allowing you plenty of freedom within the framework of the itinerary. You’ll find that with our maximum group size at 16, you’ll travel in a minimal impact style with a great group of like-minded travellers.

  • Can you advise which vaccinations are recommended?

    While our pre-departure kit provides information on vaccinations, we suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

Caroline Jones(Mallacoota, VIC Australia)  

African Wildlife Explorer

2 Sep 2023

I thoroughly enjoyed this trip and would recommend it for those looking for a combination of game watching and visiting amazing natural landscapes. We travelled from Cape Town to Victoria Falls and from the first day were spotting baboons, hyrax and penguins. By the time we reached the national parks further north, we had multiple sightings of (and a couple of close encounters with) lions, elephants, hippos, giraffe and a range of smaller game such as honey badgers and mongoose. The natural features such as Fish River Gorge and the Namibi sand dunes were also highlights. Our guide was the dedicated Misheck who worked tirelessly to get us around safely, deftly handling any unexpected scheduling changes to ensure we experienced as much as possible. Misheck was also incredibly knowledgeable. This trip is best done in the cooler months because the truck was not air-conditioned and became quite hot as we travelled north. Also be prepared for some long days travelling in the truck. Highly recommend it.

Ruth Freedman(Murrumbeena, VIC Australia)  

African Wildlife Explorer

10 Jul 2023

We went on a 20 day overland adventure from Cape Town to Victoria Falls, covering over 5,000 kilometers. We took the lodge accommodation option and found many of them to be delightful both in location and design, as well as offering excellent catering. We would have loved to have lingered at these places, but time did not permit. This group of 15 tour was made exceptional by our wonderful and experienced guide Misheck. He is unbelievably knowledgable about Africa - the geography, the people and the wildlife, as well as being good company for everyone and a very safe driver. Highlights of the tour were the wonderful animals, the sand dunes of the Namibian Desert and climbing Big Daddy, Victoria Falls and some of the beautiful lodges we stayed at. The people we travelled with ranged from mid forties to mid seventies in age. We would recommend this tour to anyone with a spirit of adventure, willing to cover long distances overland.

T. Endacott(South Australia)  

African Wildlife Explorer

11 Aug 2017

Great adventure taking in the highlights of SA, Namibia, Botswana & Zimbabwe inc game drives in Etosha & Chobe NP. Accommodation was first class.

Ken and Amanda Berry(Scone, NSW)  

African Wildlife Explorer

07 Aug 2017

Recently returned from our 21 day tour, we would like to thank you at World Expeditions for facilitating such a wonderful holiday. The itinerary provided an excellent route of highlights from Cape Town to Victoria Falls, spending the majority of time in Namibia. Our guide Adam, was professional, organised and patient at all times. We enjoyed sensational landscapes and experiences: climbing the dunes at Sossusvlei, seeing one of the oldest plants in the world, meeting intriguing people like the Bushmen and Himba tribes and delighting in the birds and animals of Africa. We were accommodated in surprisingly varied and excellent places, oasis-like in the desert on occasion. This tour ticked all our boxes for a fascinating and memorable trip and the new app gave us the heads-up on the details for each day. We can't wait to book our next adventure.

Peck Fah Yap(Selangor, Malaysia)  

African Wildlife Explorer

3 May 2024

I had an amazing experience! Our group were from all over the world. We had Collen as our driver and guide. He did an excellent job in getting us around safely and ensuring that we had best experience. Some of our best game sightings were with him. We travelled from Cape Town to Victoria Falls through diverse landscapes. It was such a delight to explore Namibia! Such beautiful natural landscapes. Thanks to WE that I was able to fulfill two items in my travel bucket list, experiencing game drives (love watching the animals in close proximity!) and walking on Sossusvlei sand dune.

Seik Chiang Foo(Petaling Jaya, Sengalor Malaysia)  

African Wildlife Explorer

30 Apr 2024

Fabulous adventure. Namibia was a surprise gem. Our guide, Collen (from Kiboko Adventure) was truly great; not only was he our guide, he was the driver, the mechanic (when the bus suffered a blown tire), an entertainer with his deadpan humor, and an overall great person. Also to mention that we have wonderful fellow travelers from across many countries (Australia, Canada, England, Italy & Malaysia). This adventure covered both amazing scenery and amazing safari game drives.

Claude Plante(Lac Megantic, QC Canada)  

African Wildlife Explorer

7 Mar 2023

Very good guide Long days in a big truck 35 degrees Without air climatise? Some lodge cheaper not so clean

Michael Copping(Oatley, NSW Australia)  

African Wildlife Explorer

6 Aug 2024

Very good trip with long days of driving between highlights. I would recommend that the trip should spend more time of if possible spend more time interacting with the Himba people . A flight between Cape Town and Windhoek would allow this.

Lisa Burns(Chisolm, NSW Australia)  

African Wildlife Explorer

6 Aug 2024

great trip guide was fantastic lot of travelling but worth it

Paul Bencuya(Greensboro, NC)  

African Wildlife Explorer

18 Apr 2022

Their guides did a great job, but the trip is better described as an exploration of Southern Africa, as we only saw insects for at least 2 days

Read all 15 reviews

1 Select your preferred date

Dec
2024 Feb
2025 Apr
2025 May
2025 Jun
2025 Jul
2025 Aug
2025 Sep
2025 Oct
2025 Nov
2025

Saturday - Thursday

Dec 14, 2024 - Jan 02, 2025
$4999

Saturday - Thursday

Feb 08, 2025 - Feb 27, 2025
$4896

Saturday - Thursday

Apr 05, 2025 - Apr 24, 2025
$4896

Saturday - Thursday

Apr 12, 2025 - May 01, 2025
$4896
Sold Out

Saturday - Thursday

May 24, 2025 - Jun 12, 2025
$4896
Sold Out

Saturday - Thursday

May 31, 2025 - Jun 19, 2025
$4896

Saturday - Thursday

Jun 07, 2025 - Jun 26, 2025
$4896

Saturday - Thursday

Jul 05, 2025 - Jul 24, 2025
$5128

Saturday - Thursday

Aug 02, 2025 - Aug 21, 2025
$5128

Saturday - Thursday

Aug 30, 2025 - Sep 18, 2025
$5128

Saturday - Thursday

Sep 13, 2025 - Oct 02, 2025
$5128

Saturday - Thursday

Oct 18, 2025 - Nov 06, 2025
$5128

Saturday - Thursday

Nov 22, 2025 - Dec 11, 2025
$5128

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    World Expeditions allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform world expeditions, 70 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    World Expeditions requires a minimum deposit of 400 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of world expeditions charges.

    Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Not what you're looking for?

People that have booked this tour have also searched for the following:

Tours in South Africa Tours in Zimbabwe Tours in Namibia

Similar Tours

More like this