8-Day Highlights of Botswana & Victoria Falls
This small group overland tour features a mix of camping and budget lodge accommodations, showcasing the best of Botswana and Victoria Falls on a budget. Experience the iconic Victoria Falls, Chobe National Park, Elephant Sands, the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, and enjoy an authentic camping safari deep in the Okavango Delta. All activities and most meals are included during this tour, including guided walks, game drives, boating safaris, and excursions in traditional dugout canoes. The tour can be conducted in either direction between Victoria Falls and Maun.
OVERVIEW
- Day 1: Arrival in Victoria Falls, sunset cruise on the Zambezi River
- Day 2: Guided tour of the Victoria Falls, transfer to Chobe, and boating safari
- Day 3: Game drive in Chobe and transfer to Elephant Sands
- Day 4: Walking safari or game drive in Elephant Sands and overnight under the stars in the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans
- Day 5: Morning 4×4 drive through the pans and transfer to the Okavango Delta
- Day 6-7: Inner Okavango Delta Wild Camping Safari (activities: Mokoro and walking safaris)
- Day 8: Departure
DETAILED ITINERARY
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN VICTORIA FALLS (-/-/-)
Upon your arrival at the airport, you will be greeted and transferred to your accommodation in Victoria Falls (included). Relax and unwind after your journey, preparing for the exciting days ahead. In the evening, enjoy a stunning sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, taking in the beautiful views of the falls.
DAY 2: GUIDED TOUR OF THE FALLS & BOATING IN CHOBE RIVER (B/L/-)
After breakfast, a local guide will take you on a walking tour through the Victoria Falls rainforest, providing you with different perspectives of this natural wonder. Additional activities can be booked in advance for an extra charge. After lunch, continue your journey to Chobe National Park for an afternoon and evening boating safari, where you can spot wildlife along the riverbanks.
DAY 3: GAME VIEWING IN CHOBE & ELEPHANT SANDS (B/-/D)
Start your day with a morning game drive in Chobe National Park, known for its large elephant population. After your game drive, head towards Elephant Sands, a unique lodge where you can observe elephants and other wildlife up close from the comfort of your accommodations. Spend the evening relaxing by the waterhole, enjoying the wildlife interactions.
DAY 4: VISITING THE SALT PANS & MEERKATS OF MAKGADIKGADI (B/-/-)
Begin the day early with a cup of coffee or tea, followed by a guided walking excursion through the Elephant Sands Game Reserve or a game drive. After breakfast, enjoy a final look at the waterhole before departing for Makgadikgadi. In the afternoon, explore the vast salt pans in a 4×4 safari vehicle. Visit a colony of meerkats near the Ntwetwe salt pan, where you can observe their charming behaviors. As the day ends, enjoy dinner in the pans around a campfire and sleep under the stars—an unforgettable adventure.
DAY 5: INTO THE OKAVANGO DELTA
Following breakfast, depart for Maun and continue into the Okavango Delta for an authentic camping safari. Begin with a 1-hour speedboat cruise to the Buffalo Fence (or travel by 4×4 if necessary). Here, you’ll meet your poler, who will guide you through the delta’s channels in a traditional mokoro canoe. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings, and upon reaching your camp on an island, a fresh bush shower awaits. Share stories around the campfire as you unwind after the day’s adventures.
DAY 6: ON THE ISLANDS OF THE OKAVANGO DELTA (B/L/D)
Awaken to a warm “Dumela” and enjoy a light breakfast. After breakfast, embark on your first game viewing activity, which could be a nature walk or canoe excursion. Return to camp for a refreshing shower and brunch, followed by a second game viewing activity in the afternoon. After dinner, gather around the campfire once more, enjoying the sounds of the bush as you drift off to sleep.
DAY 7: IN THE CHANNELS OF THE OKAVANGO DELTA (B/L/-)
Enjoy one last dugout canoe tour and a final bush walk before returning to Maun for lunch by the riverside. Arrive in Maun before sunset, filled with memories of your adventure.
DAY 8: DEPARTURE
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight, taking with you a wealth of unforgettable experiences.
INCLUSIONS:
- Transfers and activities as mentioned
- Meals as specified
- One bottle of water per day
- Accommodation (both lodging and camping)
- Park fees in Botswana
- 4 nights in en-suite rooms (budget-midrange lodge)
- 2 nights in the Okavango Delta (camping in 2.5×2.5m² dome tents with twin stretcher beds, pillows, and duvet blankets)
- 1 night under the stars in Makgadikgadi (no tent)
EXCLUSIONS:
- Visas and international flights (to Victoria Falls/from Maun)
- Travel insurance
- Gratuities and personal expenses (such as souvenirs)
- Drinks and meals not specified (3 lunches, 4 dinners)
- Park fees for Victoria Falls
THIS TOUR IS OFTEN COMBINED WITH:
- Moremi Game Drive Day Trip
- 2-Day Moremi, Khwai & East Okavango Delta Wilderness Trail
- 3-Day Moremi, Khwai & East Okavango Delta Wilderness Trail
- 3-Day Moremi Wilderness Trail
- 3-Day Central Kalahari Desert Trail
- 4-Day Kalahari Safari & San Bushmen Experience
- 5-Day Best of Northern Botswana Wilderness Trail
- 5-Day Rhinos, Diamonds & Okavango Delta Overland Tour
- 11-Day Best Of Northern Botswana + Victoria Falls Safari
- 13-Day Best Of Northern Botswana + Victoria Falls Safari
This 8-day tour offers an incredible opportunity to experience the natural wonders of Botswana and Victoria Falls while enjoying a range of activities, from game drives to authentic camping in the delta.
