Okavango & Chobe

Okavango & Chobe

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8 Days From

$2305

$2196

Okavango & Chobe

8 Days Starting in Johannesburg, South Africa and ending in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Visiting: Palapye, Maun, Okavango Delta, Nata, Chobe National Park, Victoria Falls

Tour operator:

Encounters Travel

Tour code:

347

Specialist Group:

Singles Solo

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

All Ages / Not applicable

Age range:

8-85

Special diets catered:

Request dietary needs

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Wildlife Tours

From: $2305 $2196 (USD) Travel Club discount: -$109

NB: Prices correct on 29-Jan-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 journey through the heart of Southern Africa with the "Okavango & Chobe" tour. This adventure takes you from the bustling city of Johannesburg to the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, traversing the diverse landscapes of Botswana and Zimbabwe. Experience the stark beauty of the Kalahari Desert and the rich culture of the San bush people. Explore the lush Okavango Delta and the wildlife-rich Moremi and Chobe National Parks. Marvel at the vastness of the Makgadikgadi Pans and the thundering Victoria Falls. With 7 nights of accommodation, all meals, and transport in a 25-seat expedition vehicle included, this tour offers a perfect blend of adventure and comfort. Whether camping under the stars or opting for a lodge upgrade, this tour promises an immersive experience in some of Africa's most iconic landscapes.

Highlights

  • Kalahari Desert

  • Experience the culture of the San bush people

  • Explore the Okavango Delta

  • Visit Moremi National Park

  • Discover Chobe National Park

  • Witness the vast Makgadikgadi Pans

  • Marvel at the majestic Victoria Falls

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Johannesburg To Palapye

Location: Palapye

Accommodation Name: Cresta Palapye

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

We start our tour early this morning in Johannesburg, as we travel through the North-West Province until we reach the Botswana border. After completing border formalities we’ll carry on through the Trans-Kalahari highway until we reach our overnight accommodation. As we depart Johannesburg first thing this morning you will need to book at least one night's pre-tour accommodation. Note: The tour is available either based mainly on camping in traditional 2-person tents (which we provide together with camp beds), or as an upgraded 'accommodated' version where you sleep in lodges, hotels, or permanent camps (with proper beds & facilities). Details of each night's stay are given in the Facilities section of the daily itinerary. Pricing shown is based on camping - please contact us for prices to upgrade to the accommodated level. Route: Johannesburg to Palapye

Day 2 : Palapye To Maun

Aarush Dhand

Location: Maun

Accommodation Name: Sedia hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we head north through the stark yet striking landscapes of the Central Kalahari desert towards the gateway of the Okavango Delta. Along the way, you'll pass by several smaller towns and villages, offering glimpses into everyday life in Botswana. A notable point of interest on our route is the Orapa Diamond Mine, an imposing testament to Botswana's mineral wealth. This mine, which is a collaborative venture between De Beers and the Botswana government, is counted among the world's most extensive diamond mines. It serves as a critical economic pillar, contributing considerably to Botswana's GDP and export earnings. Beyond Orapa, our journey skirts the southern end of the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park before reaching our overnight destination in Maun, so keep an eye out for an array of wildlife that moves between the watering holes. Route: Palapye to Maun

Day 3 : Okavango Delta - Khwai Conservation Area

Arefin Gaming

Location: Okavango Delta

Accommodation Name: Khwai Tented Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

You will be separated from the truck for the next 2 nights and it is therefore important that you pack/gather your personal belongings which you may need, before we depart for Maun today as there is limited time in Maun for re-packing and storing. Please pack lightly and only take what you need for the following two nights. Today we make our way towards the Okavango Delta. Early risers will have the opportunity to go on an optional scenic flight over the Delta (time and weather permitting). After your optional flight, you will be collected from Maun and will be transferred to the Khwai Conservation area in smaller safari type vehicles. Our guide will prepare us on what to expect for our mokoro excursion into the Okavango Delta. Route: Maun to Khwai Conservation area. Optional activity: Scenic Flight over Okavango Delta. Included Highlight: Sunset Mokoro Excursion

Day 4 : Okavango Delta - Moremi Game Reserve

kashweka lemmy

Location: Okavango Delta

Accommodation Name: Khwai Tented Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

At first light, you will be picked up from the hotel for our drive to the South gate to enter Moremi Game Reserve. As we journey through the Okavango Delta ecosystem of channels and lagoons, sightings of different bird and animal populations will become more frequent. The game viewing routes may vary according to the professional guides, particularly when high floods are experienced as certain routes may be closed. Included Highlight: Moremi Game Reserve full day excursion

Day 5 : Nata

Location: Nata

Accommodation Name: Elephant Sands

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, our journey will take us across the Northern stretch of the Makgadikgadi Pans where we can view beautiful examples of the iconic Baobab tree. We are also afforded the opportunity to enjoy a guided afternoon excursion to the Pans and Nata sanctuary to appreciate the stunning views and have an unforgettable sundowner. Route: Khwai to Nata Optional Activity: Makgadikgadi Salt Pans (Nata Sanctuary)

Day 6 : Chobe National Park

Location: Chobe National Park

Accommodation Name: Thebe River Safaris or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

There is an optional game drive in Chobe National Park this morning, and those taking it will head out early in open 4x4 safari vehicles. After returning to the camp for lunch and a rest, in the afternoon we all head out to explore Chobe National Park from the river. We'll enjoy a leisurely boat cruise which allows for an up and close experience seeing some of the many elephants that frequent the river in the afternoons. Route: Chobe National Park Included Highlight: Chobe National Park Boat Cruise Local Optional Activity: Chobe National Park Game Drive

Day 7 : Kasane To Victoria Falls

Location: Victoria Falls

Accommodation Name: Shearwaters Explorers Village or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We leave Chobe reluctantly this morning, full of the memories of all the wildlife encounters we've enjoyed over the last few days. It's only a short distance to the border into Zimbabwe and then on to Victoria Falls. You'll have time at your leisure to visit the spectacular falls, known locally as 'Mosi-oa Tunya', or 'the smoke that thunders'. You'll also have time to visit the bustling adventure town of Victoria Falls with its craft markets and coffee shops, as well as numerous options for booking extra activities. Victoria Falls offers a wide selection of options to suit both adrenaline junkies who could take a bungee jump or do some white water rafting, helicopter flights over the falls, or perhaps a High Tea at the Victoria Falls Hotel would be more your style. Route: Kasane to Victoria Falls Optional Activity: Visit to the Victoria Falls, Bungee Jump, Gorge Swing, Sunset Cruise, Helicopter Flights, Boma Dinner Experience

Day 8 : Tour Ends In Victoria Falls

Location: Victoria Falls

Accommodation Name: N/A

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

With the many activities on offer in Victoria Falls, today is the perfect day for the adventure that most suits your style. Whether rafting the mighty Zambezi River or enjoying a scenic flight over the falls below, there is more time today to enjoy the many attractions on offer in Victoria Falls. Your tour finishes after breakfast, with extra nights accommodation available on request. A 2 day transit back to Johannesburg may be available if you would like to take advantage of the cheaper international flights departing from Johannesburg international airport, or if you have further onward travel plans in South Africa. Optional Activity: Visit to the Victoria Falls, Bungee Jump, Gorge Swing, Sunset Cruise, Helicopter Flights, Boma Dinner Experience

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    7 nights accommodation either camping or in hotels/lodges/guesthouses.

  • Transport

    All transport using our 25-seat expedition vehicle.

  • Included Highlights

    All 'included highlights' as mentioned in the itinerary.

  • Crew

    2 truck crew (driver/guide plus assistant).

  • Local Guides

    Local guides for sightseeing tours and activities as per the itinerary.

What's Not Included

  • International Flights

    International Flights are not included but available on request.

  • Visa Fees

    Visa fees if required are not included.

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities are not included.

  • Accommodated Hotel Upgrade

    'Accommodated hotel upgrade' (hotels/lodges/permanent camps instead of camping) is not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel Insurance is compulsory and available on request but not included.

  • Personal Expenses

    Drinks, snacks and other personal expenses (e.

    g.

    laundry) are not included.

  • Tips

    Tips for guides & drivers are not included.

  • Entrance Fees

    Entrance fees and activities not mentioned above are not included.

  • Other Items

    Any other items not mentioned above are not included.

More Info

This 8-day overland adventure starts in Johannesburg with its extensive flight connections, and then finishes at the spectacular Victoria Falls. We connect the two with a week exploring the highlights of Botwswana. After leaving Johannesburg we head into Botswana and the Kalahari desert, home to the nomadic San hunter gatherers. We then continue to the jewel of Botswana, the Okavango Delta where we take a Mokoro ride on the waterways and a game safari into Moremi National Park. A 2-night fly in upgrade to a deluxe lodge is also available here. Chobe National Park, famous for its large numbers of wild elephants as well as numerous other big game is next, before we arrive at the iconic Victoria Falls. We have some time to see the falls and do some of the many activities available here before the tour ends. A 2 day transit back to Johannesburg is available if you would like to fly out of the airport there, or if you have onward travel plans in South Africa. The tour is available either based mainly on camping in traditional 2-person tents (which we provide together with camp beds), or as an upgraded 'accommodated' version where you sleep in lodges, hotels, or permanent camps (with proper beds & facilities). Details of each night's stay are given in the Facilities section of the daily itinerary. Pricing shown is based on camping - please contact us for prices to upgrade to the accommodated level.

Mode of Transport

Travel comfortably in a 25-seat expedition vehicle, ensuring a smooth journey through the stunning landscapes of Botswana and Zimbabwe. The tour includes all transport for the itinerary's highlights, with local guides and a dedicated truck crew for assistance.

Accommodation

Enjoy 7 nights of accommodation with options for camping in traditional 2-person tents or upgrading to lodges, hotels, or permanent camps with proper beds and facilities. Each night offers a unique experience, from shared ablutions to en-suite bathrooms.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour offers 7 nights of accommodation, which can either be camping in traditional 2-person tents or an upgraded version with stays in lodges, hotels, or permanent camps. The camping option includes shared ablutions, while the accommodated option provides rooms with en-suite bathrooms.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, the tour includes meals with 7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 7 dinners provided throughout the trip.

  • What kind of transport is used during the tour?

    All transport during the tour is provided using a 25-seat expedition vehicle.

  • Will there be guides during the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes two truck crew members, a driver/guide plus an assistant, as well as local guides for sightseeing tours and activities as per the itinerary.

  • What activities are included in the tour?

    The tour includes all 'included highlights' as mentioned in the itinerary, such as a sunset mokoro excursion in the Okavango Delta, a full day excursion in Moremi Game Reserve, and a boat cruise in Chobe National Park.

  • Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

    Yes, there are several optional activities available, including a scenic flight over the Okavango Delta, a game drive in Chobe National Park, and various activities in Victoria Falls such as bungee jumping, gorge swinging, and helicopter flights.

  • What is the starting and ending point of the tour?

    The tour starts in Johannesburg, South Africa, and ends in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

  • Is travel insurance compulsory?

    Yes! Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our tours and needs to cover personal accident & liability, medical expenses and repatriation, travel delay & abandonment. We also strongly recommend that you take out cover against cancellation and lost/stolen baggage. Personal medical insurance does not normally provide sufficient cover and is generally not suitable for travel on our tours. You will not be able to join your tour if you have not provided us with details of your insurance or if you arrive without cover in place (no refunds will be due in this event).

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    You are always able to change your travel date. However, some charges may apply depending on how long before your departure you make the change. Our flexible booking conditions and reduced charges will apply if you are changing date because of a Covid-19 reason or because your government is advising against travel to your destination. Please check our detailed booking conditions for full details.

  • When is my balance payment due?

    60 days prior to departure

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

    On most of our group tours, solo travellers may choose to form a temporary 'tour bubble' and share a room with another traveller of the same sex in the group. If a room share is not available then a single room supplement may be payable, with the costs for these kept as low as possible. We have also removed compulsory single supplements from many of our tours, and are reducing the cost by 50% on s

  • Can I transfer my booking to someone else?

    Customers may transfer their booking or any Credit on File to another person who satisfies all the relevant conditions to the tour, provided that we are notified not less than 7 days before departure, and the transferee agrees to these booking conditions and all other terms of the contract between us. The Client and new booker are jointly and severally responsible for any outstanding payments and a transfer administration fee of GBP50 / USD75 / CAD100 / AUD100 / NZD100 / EUR75 / ZAR1000 / INR5000 or GBP100 / USD150 / CAD200 / AUD200 / NZD200 / EUR150 / ZAR2000 / INR10,000 if the transfer is made less than 60 days before departure. Important Note: Certain arrangements may not be amended or transferred after they have been confirmed (for example flight tickets, Gorilla Permits) and any alteration could incur a cancellation and rebooking charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

knoesenm  

I Encountered South Africa with Encounters Travel

January 2013

In January 2013, I was lucky enough to be on the Garden Route tour through South Africa's amazing Cape Town. I recon the activities and sights can't get any better than this as far as Cape Town tours are concerned Accommodation was excellent for most of the tour, breakfasts, lunches and dinners were adventuresome and as far as the tour leaders were concerned, they were two top notch people. My holiday was truly remarkable thanks to Encounters Travel!

SarahMonroe  

Encounters Travel - South African Trip

November 2019

My boyfriend and I and just returned from a South African trip booked by Encounters Travel. Awesome travel experience. Encounters handled everything from our flights to our hotel bookings. The flights that were booked were the best flights with the shortest times and layovers. All of our hotels were at least a 4 start some 5 stars. Every time I emailed the company I heard back from someone within about 24 hours. I would book and travel with them again.

Claire Carter  

Fantastic tour

November 2023

I was unsure what to expect but it was far better than I thought. Collected from the airport and thoroughly looked after until I was returned to the airport 10 days later. The times, travelling and food was as advertised. The guide and sights were beyond my expectations. Fantastic tour.

1 Select your preferred date

Thursday - Thursday

Feb 27, 2025 - Mar 06, 2025
$2305 $2196 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$109 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Apr 10, 2025 - Apr 17, 2025
$2305 $2196 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$109 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Apr 24, 2025 - May 01, 2025
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Travel Club discount: -$109 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

May 22, 2025 - May 29, 2025
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Travel Club discount: -$109 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Jun 05, 2025 - Jun 12, 2025
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Travel Club discount: -$109 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Jul 03, 2025 - Jul 10, 2025
$2305 $2196 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$109 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Jul 17, 2025 - Jul 24, 2025
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Travel Club discount: -$109 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Aug 28, 2025 - Sep 04, 2025
$2305 $2196 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$109 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Sep 25, 2025 - Oct 02, 2025
$2305 $2196 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$109 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Oct 09, 2025 - Oct 16, 2025
$2305 $2196 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$109 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Nov 20, 2025 - Nov 27, 2025
$2305 $2196 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$109 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Dec 18, 2025 - Dec 25, 2025
$2305 $2196 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$109 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    CTS demo white label allows you to make 20 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.

  • Low Deposit

    CTS demo white label requires a minimum deposit of 55% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.

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