Southern African Desert Rivers and Wildlife

Southern African Desert Rivers and Wildlife

tourhub | World Expeditions | Southern African Desert Rivers and Wildlife | TKS
tourhub | World Expeditions | Southern African Desert Rivers and Wildlife | TKS tourhub | World Expeditions | Southern African Desert Rivers and Wildlife | TKS

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14 Days From

$4090

Southern African Desert Rivers and Wildlife

14 Days Starting in Windhoek, Namibia and ending in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Visiting: Windhoek, Sossusvlei, Swakopmund, Damaraland, Etosha National Park, Caprivi Strip, Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, Victoria Falls

Tour operator:

World Expeditions

Tour code:

TKS

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

4 - 16

Physical rating:

Adventure touring

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours, Safari Tours

Interests:

Wildlife Tours

Activities:

Canoeing-Kayaking, Sightseeing, Walking

From: $4090 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 21-Feb-2025 but subject to change.

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

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of Southern Africa with the "Southern African Desert Rivers and Wildlife" tour. This journey takes you across Botswana, Namibia, and Zimbabwe, offering breathtaking experiences such as witnessing the majestic Victoria Falls, exploring the towering Sossusvlei sand dunes at sunrise, and enjoying thrilling game drives in Etosha and Chobe National Parks. Glide through the serene waters of the Okavango Delta in a traditional mokoro canoe and cruise along the Chobe River for unparalleled wildlife viewing. Stay in comfortable 3 to 4-star safari lodges and tented camps, ensuring a cozy retreat after each day's exploration. With an English-speaking local guide and private transport, this tour promises an immersive and seamless adventure, perfect for those seeking both excitement and tranquility in the heart of Africa's natural wonders.

Highlights

  • Be captivated by the magnificent Victoria Falls.

  • Watch a magnificent sunrise from the top of the Sossusvlei sand dunes.

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

  • Explore the Okavango Delta by traditional canoe (mokoro).

  • Enjoy a game viewing cruise on the Chobe River.

  • Visit the quaint beach town of Swakopmund with its strong German influence.

  • Witness the changing colors of the world's highest sand dunes in Sossusvlei.

Itinerary

tourhub | World Expeditions | Southern African Desert Rivers and Wildlife | TKS | Route Map

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Day 1 : Windhoek

Location: Windhoek

Accommodation Name: Arebbusch Lodge

On arrival this afternoon in Windhoek, you have free time to explore the capital city of Namibia.
Overnight: Arebbusch Lodge (or similar accommodation).

Day 2 - 3 : Sesriem And Sossusvlei (Approx 520 Kms/7 Hrs Drive)

fotowelt-heise de
Jean Francois Badoc
Uwe Affeldt

Location: Sossusvlei

Accommodation Name: Desert Quiver Camp

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 for Sossusvlei, stopping in the dune belt to witness the changing colours of the world’s highest sand dunes. We undertake a 5km walk to Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. In the
afternoon we enjoy a short hike through the Sesriem Canyon.
Overnight Desert Quiver Camp (or similar)

Day 4 : Swakopmund (Approx 380 Kms/5 Hrs Drive)

Wesley Rosenblum
Olivier Armani

Location: Swakopmund

Accommodation Name: The Delight

Today we travel through the Kuiseb canyon, site of the famous book by Henno Martin, The Sheltering Desert before we stop off at Walvis Bay to view the flamingos (seasonal). The Walvis Bay wetlands - the lagoon, mudflats, shoreline and salt works - constitute the single most important coastal wetland in southern Africa for migratory birds. The wetland therefore serves mainly as a dry-season and drought refuge for migrating species like the Greater and Lesser Flamingos, Plover, Grebe and African Black Oystercatcher. We drive to Swakopmund (33 kms), a quaint beach town with a strong German influence and with a sizable part of its population still German-speaking today. Founded in 1892 as the main harbour for German South-West Africa, Swakopmund is German for "Mouth of the Swakop" as it is at the mouth of the Swakop River. We spend the afternoon exploring this German colonial town. Overnight: The Delight (or similar).

Day 5 : Damaraland (Approx 380 Kms/7 Hrs Drive)

Location: Damaraland

Accommodation Name: Ugab Terrace Lodge

We leave the coast behind and drive inland through the Damaraland region. Damaraland was a name given to the north-central part of Namibia and inhabited by the Damara people, an ethnic group who make up 8.5% of Namibia's population. Thought to be a remnant of southwestern Africa's hunter-gatherers, have no known cultural relationship with any of the other tribes anywhere else in Africa. The region is a vast and rugged terrain with mountain ranges intercepted by wide gravel plains, which run into sandy, vegetated riverbeds and hot, dry valleys. Be on the lookout for the slightly smaller, desert-adapted elephants found predominantly in the Kaokaland and Damaraland regions. The Desert Elephant belongs to the savanna elephant and are a protected species. Consider yourself lucky if you see the elusive desert elephant or desert rhino, as these animals were subjected to poaching in the 1980's and numbers have diminished significantly. Our lodge is located on top of a mountain with spectacular views of the surrounding area. We spend the afternoon taking in the incredible setting or simply relaxing by the pool. Overnight Ugab Terrace Lodge (or similar).

Day 6 : Etosha National Park (Approx 220 Kms/3 Hrs Drive)

Peter Schmid
András Szőllősy
Nrupesh Soni

Location: Etosha National Park

Accommodation Name: Etosha Village

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).

Day 7 : Etosha National Park (150 Kms)

Location: Etosha National Park

Accommodation Name: Etosha Village

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 8 : Okavango River (Approx 430 Kms/6 Hrs Drive)

Location: Caprivi Strip

Accommodation Name: Hakusembe River Lodge

We enter the Caprivi Strip (Zambezi region) where we spend the night set amongst the lush vegetation overlooking the Kavango 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 9 - 10 : Okavango Delta (Approx 320 Kms/5 Hrs Drive; Plus 2-3 Hour Boat Trip)

Arefin Gaming
Allan Kaitila
kashweka lemmy
Oriol R

Location: Okavango Delta

Accommodation Name: Swampstop chalets

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. Lunch is included on Day 11 only. Overnight Swampstop chalets (or similar).

Day 11 - 12 : Chobe River (Approx 250 Kms/4 Hrs Drive)

Location: Chobe National Park

Accommodation Name: Chobe Safari Lodge

Crossing into Botswana via 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 National Park has one of the largest concentrations of game in Africa. Where the Chobe river flows into the Zambezi River the two rivers form the borders between Namibia, Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe. One of the few places in the world that four countries border on each other. 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 13 : Victoria Falls (Approx 90 Kms/3 Hrs Drive)

Location: Victoria Falls

Accommodation Name: Sprayview Hotel

We travel across the Zimbabwe border to view Victoria Falls - one of the most revered and spectacular sights in Africa. Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park (otherwise known as Victoria Falls) is a UNESCO world heritage site. The Park covers 66 km2 from the Songwe Gorge below the falls in a northwest arc along about 20 km of the Zambian riverbank. Two countries - Zambia and Zimbabwe, share the magnificent falls. Nothing can compare to viewing the awesome power of 'The Smoke that thunders" for the first time. Days are spent at leisure to browse the local markets, to experience the many optional activities on offer including white water rafting, bungi jumping, microlighting/ airplane or helicopter flights over the Falls, and to visit the actual Falls (own expense). Overnight Sprayview Hotel (or similar).

Day 14 : In Victoria Falls, Trip Concludes

Location: Victoria Falls

Meals Included: Breakfast

Our tour ends today after breakfast.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    13 nights hotel/lodge/guesthouse

  • English speaking local guide

    An English speaking local guide is included to enhance your travel experience.

  • Private transport in custom built expedition vehicle

    Private transport in a custom built expedition vehicle is provided for the tour.

  • Chobe River game cruise

    A game viewing cruise on the Chobe River is included in the tour.

  • Game drives and sightseeing as listed in itinerary

    Game drives and sightseeing activities as listed in the itinerary are included.

  • National park and conservation fees

    National park and conservation fees valued at US$55 are included.

  • Okavango Delta excursions

    Excursions in the Okavango Delta are included in the tour.

  • Arrival and departure transfers

    Arrival and departure transfers are included in Windhoek and Victoria Falls on Days 1 and 14.

  • Entrance into Victoria Falls National Park

    Entrance into Victoria Falls National Park is included.

What's Not Included

  • International flights

    International flights are not included in the tour package.

  • Optional activities

    Optional activities are not included and may incur additional costs.

  • All lunches and any dinners not noted in the itinerary

    All lunches and any dinners not noted in the itinerary are not included.

  • Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks

    Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks are not included.

  • Items of a personal nature

    Items of a personal nature such as phone calls and laundry are not included.

  • Tips

    Tips are not included in the tour package.

  • Airport and departure taxes

    Airport and departure taxes are not included.

  • Visas

    Visas are not included and must be arranged separately.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.

  • Transfers to/from Livingstone Airport

    Arrival and departure transfers to/from Livingstone Airport (LVI) Zambia, or on any other day other than Days 1 or 14, are not included.

  • Local cash payment

    A local cash payment of 2500 South African Rand is payable to the tour guide on day 1 of all trips.

Accommodation

Enjoy 13 nights in 3 to 4-star comfortable safari lodges and permanent tented camps, offering twin share rooms with private ensuite facilities. A single supplement is required for solo travelers, with potential refunds if a sharing match is found.

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 sandunes 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.

Mode of Transport

Travel in private transport using a custom-built expedition vehicle, with arrival and departure transfers included in Windhoek and Victoria Falls. The tour also features game drives in open 4x4 vehicles and a game-viewing cruise on the Chobe River.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides 13 nights of accommodation in 3 to 4 star comfortable safari lodges and permanent tented camps, all based on twin share rooms with private ensuite facilities. A single supplement is compulsory if you are traveling alone, but if you prefer to share, the tour operator will try to match you with another person of the same gender.

  • Are arrival and departure transfers included in the tour?

    Yes, arrival and departure transfers are included in Windhoek and Victoria Falls on Days 1 and 14. However, these transfers are only available for Victoria Falls Airport in Zimbabwe and not for Livingstone Airport in Zambia.

  • What meals are included in the tour package?

    The tour package includes 13 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 10 dinners. All other lunches and any dinners not noted in the itinerary are not included.

  • What activities are included in the Okavango Delta excursion?

    In the Okavango Delta, the tour includes mokoro and boat excursions in the back channels of the Nxamasire area, as well as game walks on the smaller islands, subject to water levels.

  • Is there a local cash payment required during the tour?

    Yes, there is a local cash payment of 2500 South African Rand that is payable to the tour guide on day 1 of all trips.

  • What wildlife can be expected to be seen during the tour?

    During the tour, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife including blue wildebeest, springbok, zebra, kudu, giraffe, cheetah, leopard, lion, and elephant, especially during the game drives in Etosha National Park and Chobe National Park.

  • 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

Gyro Inman(Ottawa, Ontario Canada)  

Southern African Desert Rivers and Wildlife

7 Aug 2024

Amazing place with fantastic adventures!

Catherine Flannery(Coogee, NSW Australia)  

Southern African Desert Rivers and Wildlife

16 Jul 2024

Trip overall was great. Colin, our guide, was amazing! Accommodation was fantastic! My only complaint was the truck - although I was told it was the only truck to do the trip - I wondered if the suspension could have been better as we had some very rough riding!

Rusli Suwito(Liverpool, NSW Australia)  

Southern African Desert Rivers and Wildlife

10 Jan 2023

the program is fantastic. I would prefer 2 more days for this itinerary as we do not have time to slow down or rest in between the long journey otherwise, I enjoyed the trip very much. The tour guide is very helpful and the journey ran smoothly .

Deborah Powell(Cambridge, New Zealand)  

Southern African Desert Rivers and Wildlife

24 Sep 2024

Our guide Adam was amazing. He kept the trip moving and was very efficient and capable. There was some long days driving but to be expected given the vast areas.

Eugen Mindricelu(Dallas, TX)  

Southern African Desert Rivers and Wildlife

10 Jun 2022

Very Nice Trip. Many Thanks to our Good Guide Mischek. He made so much effort to accomodate all issues and persons

Samantha Clarke(Towcester, United Kingdom)  

Southern African Desert Rivers and Wildlife

2 Oct 2024

A brilliant trip from start to finish . Well organised. Good accommodation,great driver/guide Adam . We visit amazing places and had a great time

H. Rosner(Sutherland, NSW)  

Southern African Desert Rivers and Wildlife

15 Jun 2019

My friend and I had the trip of a lifetime as we explored the different landscapes and cultures of the various countries we visited while viewing all the wonderful animals and birds - sharing these sights with our excellent guides who bent over backwards to show us their beautiful country and all its delights.

Eugen Mindricelu(Dallas, TX)  

Southern African Desert Rivers and Wildlife

9 Jun 2022

Very Nice Trip. Many Thanks to our Good Guide Mischek. He made so much effort to accomodate all issues and persons

Linda Newman(Lilyfield, NSW Australia)  

Southern African Desert Rivers and Wildlife

24 Sep 2024

A great trip, with Namibia my favourite from the scenry to the animals in Etoshi. Adam our driver and guide was amazing. Pros: Great way to see three countries in two weeks. Cons: Some of the accommodation at Swamp Stop & Victoria falls was pretty basic. The others great. There is a lot of driving and often you only get to sleep in a place before moving on again.

B. Wohlrab(France)  

Southern African Desert Rivers and Wildlife

28 May 2019

The tour fulfilled my expectations and was organised very nicely. As a person that does not take tours I was not quite sure what to expect but our guide was excellent. He was knowledgeable, an excellent driver and blessed with a good understanding of human nature. The accommodations were, on the whole, far better than I had expected. The food while far from brilliant was varied and generally acceptable with breakfast being the best meal of the day in terms of quality.

Read all 10 reviews

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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.