Experience Overview
Experience the extremes of southern Africa’s landscapes on this trip that travels from the thunderous Victoria Falls to cosmopolitan Cape Town, travel down lush waterways in the enigmatic Okavango Delta, cruise past elephants and birds on the Chobe River, climb giant sand dunes in Namibia, camp to the sounds of Africa's wildlife and spot big cats, rhinos, zebras and antelopes on Etosha National Park's arid plains. Visit the people who make their homes here, from mokoro polers on the delta to the San people of Namibia.
Highlights
- Glide through the lily pad-filled waterways of the Okavango Delta on a mokoro (a small dugout canoe) and escape civilisation with an overnight stay at your island camp.
- Be mesmerised by the staggering force and beauty of Victoria Falls, and experience firsthand why it’s known as the ‘smoke that thunders’ – a natural wonder that must be seen to be believed.
- Choose to take an optional cruise down the Chobe River for the opportunity to get up close (but not too personal) to cheetahs, crocodiles and the African elephant.
- Listen to the songs and stories of Namibia’s San people, the oldest inhabitants of southern Africa, and gain an insight into their traditional customs and beliefs.
- Enjoy a full-day game drive in Etosha National Park, home to a wide range of southern Africa's wildlife, including the endangered black rhino.
- By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust. Donations help employ a team of Community Guardians who collaborate with locals to find sustainable solutions to human-wildlife conflict and conservation in Southern Africa.
Trip Details
Product Code: 3164
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Basic
Transport: Overland vehicle,4x4 Safari Vehicle,Mokoro
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles: Overland Expedition
Supplier Code: YXOF
Starts: Victoria Falls, Botswana
Finishes: Cape Town, Botswana
Duration: 22 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating: Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (19), Lunch (13), Dinner (16)Accommodation: Camping (with facilities) (17 nights),Camping (without facilities) (1 night),Cabin (3 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 3300 (CAD 150 /day)
Itinerary
Mhoro! Welcome to Zimbabwe. Your trip begins with a welcome meeting at 4 pm where you'll meet your local leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive early, there are many optional activities and sights to see around Victoria Falls. Tonight, maybe ask your leader for the best dinner recommendation and toast to a new adventure.
Accommodation:
- Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)
Today you have the option of visiting the magnificent Victoria Falls. Spanning about a mile wide across and falling 108 m into a narrow gorge below, the spray from the falls can sometimes be seen from kilometres away. In the dry season, the view of the falls is unobstructed by mist, and it's possible to see little islets in the river below. To fully understand the sheer force of this staggering curtain of water, it needs to be experienced in person. It's no wonder that the local name Mosi oa Tunya means the 'smoke that thunders'. Alternatively, your leader will be able to recommend a range of other activities that are available.
Optional Activities:
- Victoria Falls - Canoe trail (full day) (185 USD)
- Victoria Falls - Flying fox (50 USD)
- Victoria Falls - Gorge swing (103 USD)
- Victoria Falls - Helicopter Flight of the Angels (12 mins - Excludes US$25 fuel surcharge and NP fees) (150 USD)
- Victoria Falls - Helicopter Flight (25 mins - Excludes US$30 fuel surcharge and NP fees) (284 USD)
- Victoria Falls - Village & township tour (61 USD)
- Victoria Falls - Victoria Falls entrance (50 USD)
Accommodation:
- Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning is free for you to continue enjoying all that Victoria Falls has to offer. Afterwards, travel to Chobe National Park in Botswana via the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust, one of The Intrepid Foundation’s projects. Here you can learn about the rescue and rehabilitation of wildlife, human-wildlife conflict and the Trust’s role in anti-poaching. There may also be a chance to meet any rescued or orphaned wildlife currently in their care. Continue your journey to Botswana's first national park, which is famous for its high concentration of elephants, so keep an eye out! They can often be seen swimming in the Chobe River.
Included Activities:
- Victoria Falls - Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust (The Intrepid Foundation partner) visit
Accommodation:
- Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)
Rise and shine for an early-morning game drive. Adventuring through the park, you will get the opportunity to get up close to the wildlife – with luck you will spot a variety of animals and any number of exotic birds. As well as the Chobe icon, the elephant, the river also attracts hippos and crocodiles – the latter like to sun themselves by the water's edge. Cheetahs also come down for a drink. The birdwatching is excellent here too – look out for eagles, kingfishers and marabou storks, among hundreds of other species. In the afternoon perhaps take an optional cruise down the Chobe River – one of the best ways to enjoy the park's animals.
Included Activities:
- Chobe National Park - Dawn 4WD Safari
Optional Activities:
- Chobe National Park - Boat Cruise (270 BWP)
Accommodation:
- Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)
Today you will enter Namibia, driving from Kasane to Ngoma Bridge, and on to your camp at Bagani. Enjoy the journey, watching the scenery change with towns, trees and skies rolling past you. Bagani is the homestead of the local Mbukushu kings. You will have the opportunity to stop at an ATM and a market or shop today.
Accommodation:
- Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)
Drive across the border into Botswana and head south along the Okavango Panhandle (the narrowest part of the delta) to Seronga. Here you'll leave your vehicle and join your transport for the journey into the delta. Take a boat across the swamps to Gao Island to meet your mokoro team and start exploring the Okavango Delta with them. Each mokoro (small dugout canoe) takes two people and is poled along through the waterways by a local tribesman. Reeds and lily pads line the streams, and birds startled by the mokoros rise out of the long grasses. Punting along, you'll hear hippos occasionally piercing the peaceful atmosphere with their grunts. On the first night here, you'll camp on an island well away from civilisation.
Included Activities:
- Okavango Delta - Mokoro safari
Accommodation:
- Camping (without facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)
Continue your trip around the delta and then return to Gao Island before heading to the relative civilisation of Umvuvu Camp. This camp usually has hot showers, and there's a small bar at which you can relax and perhaps enjoy a refreshing sundowner. Today there is an option to take a nature walk with your guide. This is a great chance to discover the beautiful natural surrounds, gain some insight into the history of the local area and look out for animals such as giraffe, zebra and elephants.
Included Activities:
- Okavango Delta - Nature Walk
Accommodation:
- Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)
Cross the border back into Namibia and return to Bagani to camp for the night. Various boat trips and guided hikes are possible from Bagani, so if you're feeling active, get out and make the most of it. Those who are feeling bold might even be able to challenge the local kids to a soccer match – don't expect to win though! Retire to your camp in the evening and enjoy this welcome break from the road.
Optional Activities:
- Bagani - Sunset Cruise (25 USD)
Accommodation:
- Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)
Drive to your camp situated 50 km outside of Grootfontein. The town of Grootfontein, part of the Otavi Triangle, tends to get very green in the warmer months but dries out markedly in the winter. If it's springtime, you'll likely see jacarandas in bloom.
Accommodation:
- Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)
Embark on a 180-km (112-mile) round-trip to visit the San people. The oldest inhabitants of southern Africa, the San, have lived in this region for at least 20,000 years. Listen to their stories and songs and learn how those who still adhere to a traditional way of life emphasise the importance of living in harmony with the environment.
Included Activities:
- Grootfontein - San Bushman cultural experience
Accommodation:
- Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)
Travel to Etosha National Park this morning. While Etosha National Park is home to a wide range of southern Africa's wildlife, including the big carnivores and five rare or endangered species: black rhino, Hartmann's mountain zebra, black-faced impala, roan antelope and the tiny Damara dik-dik. Game viewing in Etosha is relatively easy due to the man-made waterholes and the large, sparsely vegetated pans. The bushland surrounding the pans is difficult to see through, but there are enough clearings, pans and waterholes to usually allow for some sightings. Embark on an optional evening game drive here in the evening, then spend the night at Namutoni. Accommodation upgrades are on offer here.
Optional Activities:
- Etosha National Park - Evening Game Drive (750 ZAR)
Accommodation:
- Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)
Enjoy a full-day game drive in Etosha National Park. Namibia has protected its game reserves against poaching, which means significant numbers of elephants, antelope and other herbivores reside here. The park is also home to some 340 species of birds – keep an eye to the sky where you might spot a soaring eagle. Tonight, you will stay at the particularly spectacular Okaukuejo Camp. The camp overlooks a floodlit waterhole visited by many different species throughout the day and night. Upgrades are not available at this location tonight.
Included Activities:
- Etosha National Park - Overland Vehicle Game Drive
Optional Activities:
- Etosha National Park - Evening Game Drive (750 ZAR)
Accommodation:
- Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)
Travel to the mountain of Spitzkoppe today. The wild lands around this superb granite peak are some of Namibia's most stunning. The mountain itself is 700 million years old and 1987 m (6519 ft) high. Although you shouldn't try to climb to the top, the area is rich in plant life and with some bush paintings to be found. Be sure to look out for the sunset from your bush camp this evening – the landscape is known to take on dazzling hues of orange and red.
Optional Activities:
- Spitzkoppe - San People rock painting guided walk (50 ZAR)
Accommodation:
- Camping (with basic facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)
Continue to the town of Swakopmund. Be dazzled by the sight, sound and smell of thousands of olive-coloured seals on the shores of Cape Cross while you're travelling up the Atlantic Coast. You'll be able to stop along the way to access an ATM and market if you need some supplies.
Included Activities:
- Cape Cross Nature Reserve - Cape Cross seal colony
Accommodation:
- Chalet (Number of Nights: 1)
Surrounded by the massive dune fields of the Namib Desert on three sides and the Atlantic Ocean on the other, Swakopmund is an example of the German culture found in all major settlements in Namibia. With your free time, maybe wander the streets and explore at your own pace or ask your leader for recommendations on activities and dining options.
Optional Activities:
- Swakopmund - Swakopmund Museum (2 USD)
- Swakopmund - Seal and dolphin cruise (60 USD)
- Swakopmund - Horse riding (65 USD)
Accommodation:
- Chalet (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is another free day to enjoy this fun beachside town. If you're after a dose of history and culture, you can stop in at the lighthouse and visit the Swakopmund Museum. Active types and thrillseekers might like to take advantage of the many outdoor activities on offer – this town is the adventure sports mecca of Namibia.
Optional Activities:
- Swakopmund - Seal and dolphin cruise (60 USD)
- Swakopmund - Horse riding (65 USD)
- Swakopmund - Swakopmund Museum (2 USD)
Accommodation:
- Chalet (Number of Nights: 1)
Drive to Sesriem, your base for exploring the incredible Namib Desert region. The most famous part of the Namib Desert is its vast dune fields, the most spectacular of which are found near the Sesriem Canyon. This canyon was formed when the Tsauchab River carved a gorge 30 metres into the gravel deposits about 15 million years ago. Now, the river flows out to the dune fields that stretch for hundreds of miles up the coast and dries up in a clay pan at Sossusvlei. The dunes – the highest in the world – are stunning, with magnificent flaming tones created by the brightly coloured sands.
Accommodation:
- Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)
Wake up before dawn and scramble to the top of the dunes for a dramatic sunrise view across a vast sea of sand. The colour changes are simply incredible and provide a spectacular setting for your brunch. Afterwards you will jump in the back of a pickup truck for a trip to Sossusvlei, the incredible salt and clay pan just nearby. Enjoy some time to explore this incredible and mysterious desert oddity. Later, continue to your camp past the small town of Bethanie. Your camp has basic facilities, with showers, flush toilets, wi-fi and optional upgrades.
Included Activities:
- Sossusvlei - 4x4 Tour
- Sesriem - Sand dunes visit
Accommodation:
- Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)
Check out the town of Bethanie before heading further south into the vast desert lands of Namibia towards Fish River Canyon. At 500 m deep and over 160 km long, Fish River Canyon is one of the very largest canyons in the world. During the dry season, the riverbed tends to dry out completely, leaving only a few puddles. In the wet season, after the summer rains, the river can turn into a spectacular raging torrent. At any time of year there are remarkable photographic opportunities here as you watch the colour of the granite rocks change as the sun goes down.
Included Activities:
- Fish River Canyon - Canyon entrance
Accommodation:
- Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)
Departing Fish River Canyon, travel to Noordoewer in southern Namibia. Pitch your tent on the scenic banks of the Gariep (Orange) River, which stretches 2200 kilometres (1367 miles) – the longest river in Lesotho. The river’s source is high up in the Drakensberg mountain range, and it flows into the Atlantic Ocean at Alexander Bay in South Africa. The Orange River is responsible for transporting diamonds and creating the deposits that can be found along the Namibian coast.
Optional Activities:
- Orange River - Canoe trip (550 NAD)
Accommodation:
- Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)
Depart your camp first thing in the morning and head to Klawer, a town named after the Afrikaans word for a wild clover blooming after rainfall. The surrounding countryside is beautiful, and if there's time, you’ll have the opportunity to explore some of it. Perhaps take a delightful walk around the nearby mountains and farms before settling in for a relaxing evening.
Optional Activities:
- Klawer - Winery visit & tasting (140 ZAR)
Accommodation:
- Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)
Head to Cape Town this morning, where your trip will come to an end. With its stunning coastline, modern cityscape, nearby mountains and a plethora of vineyards within reach, this is one of Africa's most exciting cities. There's no accommodation provided for tonight, but this can be arranged – please enquire at the time of booking this trip.
Optional Activities:
- Cape Town - Harbour cruise (200 ZAR)
- Cape Town - Table Mountain Hike (1600 ZAR)
- Cape Town - Table Mountain Aerial Cable (380 ZAR)
- Cape Town - Robben Island tour (550 ZAR)
- Cape Town - Best of the Cape Combo Tour - Full Day (2000 ZAR)
- Cape Town - Cape Peninsula and SUP Tour - Full Day (2100 ZAR)
- Cape Town - Robben Island Ferry & Table Mountain Tour - Full Day (1800 ZAR)
- Cape Town - Winelands Tour - Full Day (1800 ZAR)
- Cape Town - Winelands Tour - Half Day (1350 ZAR)
- Cape Town - Cape Peninsula & Table Mountain Tour - Full Day (2000 ZAR)
- Cape Town - Cape Malay Cooking Tour - Half Day (1200 ZAR)
- Cape Town - Township Experience - Half Day (965 ZAR)
- Cape Town - City and Waterfront Tour - Half Day (1100 ZAR)
- Cape Town - Cape Peninsula & Kirstenbosch Tour - Full Day (2000 ZAR)
- Cape Town - District Six & Bo-Kapp Cultural Tour - Half Day (965 ZAR)
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Tracy - Traveled, February 2024
A breathtakingly amazing trip to wonderful countries. Camping amongst wildlife In outstanding scenery. I can’t recommend it enough
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/17/2024
Emer - Traveled, February 2024
This has been an amazing trip. It was very different to what I had been expecting as I had not vitany African countries before. There were single travelers on the trip and I would recommend it to singletons and couples alike as a safe interesting way to see new places
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/17/2024
Peter - Traveled, December 2023
Saw everything I’d dreamed off. Camping tour at 77, who would have thought . Dan and the lads made it a pleasure
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/05/2024
John - Traveled, December 2023
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/05/2024
Franz - Traveled, February 2024
A excellent way to see Zimbabwe, Botswana and Namibia. During game drives and boat excursions it was possible to get close to animals and observe them in their natural habitat. My favourite camping spot was in Spitzkoppe, sleeping under the stars on top of a granite boulder. The dedicated crew made all the difference, everyone had a lot of fun and amazing experiences eg Victoria Falls and the beautiful sand dunes in Namibia. I highly recommend this trip, an adventure you won’t forget.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/19/2024
Lachlan - Traveled, February 2024
Intrepid’s staff went above and beyond to ensure that everything was perfect on our trip from Vic falls to Capetown. A truly life changing experience and at 58 this will be hard to beat. Thanks Intrepid and thanks again to Laban and the crew
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/19/2024
Boon Teck - Traveled, November 2023
I did the 63 days Africa Encompassed itinerary. It has been an epic journey! We crossed the Equator and the Tropic of Capricorn. We went from the Indian Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean. Along the way, we passed many different eco-systems, from rainforests to deserts. We interacted with and got a better understanding of the people of Africa. We also learnt about their history, culture and architecture. Of course, we saw a lot of animals...and witnessed the circle of life. Most importantly, we enjoyed the company of our fellow travellers...we sang, danced, laughed, shared stories and supported each other! Am planning for at least 4 Intrepid trips for 2024.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/26/2023
Robert - Traveled, October 2023
I loved this trip. It was the third leg of a Nairobi to Cape Town 48-day adventure, and I knew the least about the VIc Falls to Cape Town part. Namibia was kind of a revelation, and Botswana with Chobe and the Okavanga Delta were fantastic. So glad I signed up for this section.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/17/2023
Tea - Traveled, September 2023
To anyone who might be concerned as I was: Do not worry and book the trip. It is definitely worth the money and it will be a precious memory for lifetime. I loved every single moment. The only thing I didnt like is that the time passed so quickly.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/13/2023
Siew mee Nancy - Traveled, September 2023
I am so glad l did trip and the crew made it even more fantastic. Thanks again for all the efficient and wonderful service.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/13/2023
Anna - Traveled, September 2023
This trip was more than i could have imagined! It was the trip of a lifetime, i saw and learned so many new things, be it animals, traditions or culture. I never felt unsafe and the team made sure we not only had the best food but always the best time!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/13/2023
Mark - Traveled, September 2023
Great overland trip travelling through 4 African countries and seeing and experiencing highlights of each. The crew and leader we had were a great set of guys all experts in their field providing a great experience to all the group.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/17/2023
Cam - Traveled, August 2023
Had a fantastic time. Saw a great mix of wildlife and unique landscapes. Crew of Mambo, Charlow, Kawaya were fantastic and looked after us well and have a great sense of humour and fun.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/06/2023
Rozita - Traveled, August 2023
My got this trip has been amazing - I’ve been super privileged to see and experience the things I have done on this trip. Going from all the sunrise/sunsets to sharing meals at the camp to seeing the animals and the landscapes! My god it’s been incredible and the crew have have made it even better! I’m going home with a full heart
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/06/2023
Karen - Traveled, August 2023
Amazing adventures and recommend that everyone should try an adventure to Africa..NAMIBIA and VIC FALLS BOTSWANA... ALL AMAZING PLACES AND THE VEHICLE WAS GREAT COMFORTABLE AND WELL ORGANISED ITINERARY
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/07/2023
Alexis - Traveled, July 2023
Absolutely excellent trip. Stunning scenery and amazing wildlife with incredible camping along the way. The food (as a fussy eater) was fantastic and the meals views incredible. Great group, lots of fun. Leader Dan, Chef Dan and driver Philip were fab! Highly recommend!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/18/2023
Sally - Traveled, July 2023
This trip has amazing wildlife at Etosha, Chobe and Okavango delta as well as awesome unique natural highlights of Spitzkoppe, the Namibia desert and Fish River. The crew will keep you safe and smiling all the way - I would recommend without hesitation
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/18/2023
Saba - Traveled, June 2023
This was my first intrepid trip and it far exceeded any expectations I had. The itinerary was well planned allowing for the perfect balance of sightseeing, adventure and relaxation. The team were sensational, including as truck driver/ mechanic of 18 years , a fully qualified chef and an amazing guide with a wealth of knowledge and experience. The team were all extremely professional, enthusiastic and well trained making this experience incredibly enjoyable and flow seamlessly. The food on this trip was restaurant quality and my overall experience with intrepid is one I will not forget.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/05/2023
Liz - Traveled, June 2023
As someone with food intolerances I was anxious about the trip. Captain H worked out incredible meals for everyone with special adaptations for me. Fantastic food! Overall the crew couldn't do enough for us - helpful, knowledgeable and sociable. A great group, amazing experiences and overall just a brilliant experience! Totally recommend this trip - every day included breathtaking moments!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/25/2023
Anita - Traveled, June 2023
From the first day to the end, this trip is fantastic. Our crew was exceptional. Laban, our guide, was extremely knowledgeable, kind and helpful. Henry was wonderful and surprised us with the most delicious meals even in very remote areas along the way, and Patrick drove responsably and safely and helped out wherever he could with a smile. The whole crew went above and beyond to make this trip unforgettable for everyone. They even helped us pitch the tents which were of really good quality and easy to set up. We camped in beautiful locations often being able to access pools and sometimes resort facilities. The truck was comfortable even on bumpy and dusty roads and ideal for the full day safari in Etosha. We saw so many animals and stunning landscapes, a trip to remember.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/25/2023
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