Vagabond Travel | BOTSWANA ACCOMMODATED

BOTSWANA ACCOMMODATED

$5300 per person

Your tour will take us through the vast Makgadikgadi plains and we meet with the local Bushmen, the oldest people of Africa. Then venture further north – into the magnificent Okavango Delta where the waters originate far up in the north and flow downwards to create a living paradise on Earth, only to disappear into the vast sands of the desert. We will travel by boat to our private camp in the heart of this unique natural wonderland – home to a multitude of Africa’s famed fauna and flora. We explore the renowned national parks in fully equipped open 4×4 vehicles and, depending on the season, our route will follow the age old game migration tracks. We enjoy a game viewing boat cruise in the mighty Chobe River, and finally will visit “The Smoke that Thunders” – Victoria Falls.

VEHICLE USED :
Custom adventure truck

GROUP SIZE :
Maximum 12

ACCOMMODATION STYLE :
11 Nights Lodge / Cabin / Canvas
4 Nights Serviced Camping

INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS:
• Kalahari – Bushmen walk
• Okavango Delta private island camp
• Okavango boat trip and mokoro excursion
• Game walks
• National Parks (Moremi/Savuti – 5 days)
• Extensive open-vehicle game drives in national parks
• Wild remote serviced camping in national parks
• Makgadikgadi Salt Pans
• Chobe River Boat Cruise
• Chobe National Park
• Victoria Falls National Park and entry fee

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES:
• White water rafting
• Bungee jumping
• Scenic flight – Okavango Delta
• Zambezi River sunset cruise

16 DAYS/15 NIGHTS

Africa

Accommodated Tours

Africa

Destination

Africa
Departure

JOHANNESBURG/ JOHANNESBURG
Departure Time

0630
Return Time

1800+/- Early Evening
Dress Code

Neat Casual
Included

Accommodation

All Transport

Entry Fees

Group Equipment

Inclusions as per Itinerary

Most meals

Professional Guide
Not Included

Airfare/taxes

Alcohol & soft drinks

Arrival Transfer

Bottled water

Departure Transfer

Items of a personal nature ie Laundry/telephone

Optional excursions

Permits

Taxes

Tips

Travel Insurance

Visas

Our gallery

DAY 1: JOHANNESBURG – KALAHARI Distance: 720 Km

Our adventure starts on departure from the GREENFIRE LODGE JOHANNESBURG at 06h30. Making our way through the North West of South Africa with scattered mountains all around, we aim to cross the Botswana border near Lobatse. On completion of customs and immigration formalities, we cross into Botswana and the vast Kalahari Plains that stretch as far as the eye can see. We will cover quite some distance today before arriving at our accommodation near the village of Kang. Tonight we enjoy a catered meal while our guide explains what to expect in the days to come. Meals: Lunch and Dinner Own Expense Accommodation: Kalahari Rest Lodge Included Highlights/Activity:- Scenic drive through North West South Africa, Kalahari Desert

DAY 2: KALAHARI BUSHMEN Distance: 250 km

Waking up to a spectacular Kalahari sunrise, we enjoy our first cup of coffee and a sumptuous breakfast before continuing to the frontier town of Ghanzi. Ghanzi is home to some of the last traditional Bushmen that make a living in this harsh desert environment. It is here that we enjoy learning about the wilderness from these fascinating people. Our experience will include an educational bush walk led by true Bushmen to give us insight into their daily lives and teach us how they survive in these arid conditions. We overnight in comfortable accommodation on a vast tract of land owned and managed by the local people. Meals: B L D Accommodation: Dqae Qare San Lodge Included Highlights/Activity: - Guided bush walk led by true bushmen/san

DAY 3 - 5: OKAVANGO DELTA Distance: 390 km on Day 3

The Okavango, a massive river emanating from far North, flowing Southwards, creating one of the world’s only true inland delta’s and a unique ecosystem that supports a huge variety of animal and plant life. The sight of a nervous Lechwe pounding across a flooded plain, the Jacana striding delicately amongst the flowering lilies, the Bee Eater diving to prey on an unsuspecting insect, and of course the familiar cry of the African Fish Eagle - all combine to create a canvas of one of nature’s unique masterpieces. The river, eventually spilling its contents into the vast plains of the Makgadikgadi sands, disappears. We begin our journey into the Delta near the panhandle, gliding through papyrus lined channels by motorboat to our exclusive wild island. We spend our time here in the true wilderness, deep in the wilds, exploring the area on foot and by mokoro (dugout canoe). There will also be time to simply relax and absorb the remoteness and serenity of the area. Clients will not only learn more about the animals and plants from the local guides, but will also interact and have the opportunity to learn more about the people and their way of life in this isolated wilderness area. Meals: B L D; B L D; B L D Accommodation: Twin-bedded tented units on Private Island Included Highlights/Activity: Motorboat transfer into the Okavango Delta- Private Island , guided Game walks in the Delta led by local Motswana guides, Mokoro excursion in Delta, extensive Sunset Cruise Optional Activities: - Scenic Helicopter Flight over Delta

DAY 6: OKAVANGO – MAUN Distance: 354 km

Starting early, we begin our journey back to relative civilisation. Using motorboats, we wind our way through the channels where we are reunited with our vehicle. This afternoon we arrive in the ‘tourism capital of Botswana’ – Maun. We will spend some time stocking up on basic supplies before we travel the short distance out to the DRIFTERS MAUN TENTED LODGE to freshen up and enjoy a catered meal. The lodge is situated on the banks of the Boteti River. This river is known to change its flow directions depending upon the season and rain patterns. The Lodge offers comfortable accommodation, swimming pool, bar and restaurant. Meals: B L D Accommodation: Drifters Maun Lodge - Twin-bedded tented units Included Highlights/Activity: Motorboat transfer out of the Delta, Boteti River Sunset Optional Activities : Scenic Helicopter flight over Delta

DAY 7 - 10: FLEXIBLE GAME RESERVE SCHEDULE (5 Days in National Parks) Distance: +- 125 km Day 7

We enjoy a scrumptious breakfast at the Lodge while preparing for the game viewing part of the trip which is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the tour. Traveling in our well-equipped 4x4 vehicle we head into true wilderness, passing remote villages along the way. We spend five days in the national parks following seasonal game migrations on extensive morning and afternoon game drives, also with relaxing down time to appreciate this rare jewel of a place and its deep tranquillity. An example of our route could be: starting with Moremi, we spend first night near the well-known Third Bridge. Drift off to sleep to the howl of the distant hyena or the earthy roar of a lion, and even the deep grunt of a half-submerged hippo. We then head on north via Xakanaxa to camp near North Gate. This area is excellent for game viewing and we will conduct afternoon and morning drives along the wetland areas. Then on up to Savuti, the area offers a multitude of game drive options and a very active game area (keep the fruit well hidden from the roving elephant, the meat from the prowling hyenas, and everything from the monkeys). The vegetation is constantly changing, from open plains, palm trees and marshland, to dense Mopane woodlands and Acacia scrub, and hence all the fauna and flora changes accordingly. During this part of the journey we camp in pristine, remote, private sites where there is no sign of man’s existence – we leave each site in the same condition, nothing but footprints in the sand are left for the quiet winds to deal with. Depending on the conditions in the national parks we might also venture into the Central Kalahari Game Reserve or the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park. Meals: B L D Accommodation: Fully-Serviced Camping (Camp bed, Linen, Pillow and Sleeping Bag Provided) Included Highlights/Activity: 4x4 open vehicle game drives - Private non-fenced campsites, Extensive first-hand game viewing experience, Explore the heart of National Geographic’s photography region

DAY 11 – MAUN Distance: +- 225 km

Our last morning in the parks, we slowly game drive our way back to Maun. We will have some time to explore town and enjoy an own-expense lunch before heading out to the comfort of the DRIFTERS MAUN TENTED LODGE. This afternoon we relax at the lodge before enjoying a catered meal and a comfortable night. Meals: B; D; (Lunch on this day is own expense in town) Accommodation: Drifters Maun Tented Lodge - Twin-bedded tented units Included Highlights/Activity: Game Drive on the way out of the park, Visit to Maun

DAY 12: MAKGADIKGADI PANS Distance: 300 km

We enjoy a relaxed morning at the lodge spending time along the river bank enjoying the tranquillity of the area or lounging at the swimming pool. After an early lunch, we continue and venture eastward into the spectacular Makgadikgadi Salt Pans area. Besides the stark scenery, the pans are known for their prolific birdlife and the other desert-adapted animals. Without disturbing the surface, we take in the isolation and serenity of this expanse. After exploring the pans we continue to our accommodation for the night and enjoy a relaxed evening in comfort. Meals: B L D Accommodation: Elephant Sands Lodge Included Highlights/Activity: Relaxed morning, Visit to Makgadikgadi Salt Pans

DAY 13: CHOBE RIVER – VICTORIA FALLS Distance: 320 km

Venturing north today, we leave the desolation of the pans behind and make our way up to the mighty Chobe River. The Chobe area is known for the huge herds of elephants and other animals that are attracted to drink from the river. This afternoon we enjoy an extensive boat cruise within Chobe National Park, gliding close to the banks we hope to approach these animals from the river for close up viewing. Our cruise will explore the Chobe River front and a section of the Namibian side of the Chobe River. Back on land we cross the border into Zimbabwe and make our way to the GREENFIRE LODGE VICTORIA FALLS. The lodge is centrally situated and within walking distance of the falls and other attractions. Meals: B L D Accommodation: Greenfire Lodge Victoria Falls Included Highlights/Activity: Chobe National Park, Extensive Boat Cruise on the Chobe River

DAY 14: VICTORIA FALLS

Awaking in the adventure capital of Africa, it is with new excitement that we explore the amazing Victoria Falls. "Mosi o Tunya ", meaning “The smoke that Thunders”. This is the place where, according to ancient traditions, the “Big Snake” or “Nyami Nyami” is in hiding. On this day we include your entry and leave you to admire this wonder of the world. Various other attractions can be visited and activities enjoyed including the tribal village or curio market. An aircraft flip over the falls or a boat trip on the Zambezi River, white water rafting or bungee jumping are all worthwhile, but allowance must be made for the extra expense. We spend two nights here, thus allowing clients some time to explore the town and all it has to offer by themselves. Tonight we will eat out in a local restaurant (own expense). Relax to the sound of the African night and the distant roar of the falls and drink the farewell toasts to your adventure. Meals: B (Lunch and dinner is own expense in town) Accommodation: Greenfire Lodge Victoria Falls Included Highlights/Activity: Victoria Falls National Park, Entry Fee for viewing the Falls Optional Activities: Scenic Helicopter Flight, White water rafting, Bungee jump, Gorge swing, Many more available

DAY 15: VICTORIA FALLS – FRANCISTOWN Distance: 568 km

The guests flying out on the 15-day tour will do so today, the rest will set off to cross back into Botswana and to continue south toward Francistown, home of the national football team. Tonight we stay in comfortable accommodation, enjoying the African night and celebrating our adventure with our last tour meal. Meals: B L D Accommodation: Woodlands Lodge Included Highlights/Activity: Last opportunity to view game on route to Francistown, Scenic drive from Zimbabwe to Botswana

DAY 16: FRANCISTOWN – JOHANNESBURG Distance: 700km

Crossing the Limpopo River, we return to South Africa and make our way to the GREENFIRE LODGE JOHANNESBURG, we arrive in the early evening. Post-tour accommodation and airport transfers can be booked through DRIFTERS. Meals: B (Lunch and Dinner own expense) Included Highlights/Activity: Border Crossing back into South Africa

NB:

This tour departs from Johannesburg on selected Mondays. Please note – during peak season we may run two departures. At this time clients may be required to travel in the reverse direction. The tour can be reduced to 15 days by flying out of Victoria Falls. At time of going to print the above itinerary was correct but Drifters continually strive to offer our clients the best available tour options and as such we reserve the right to change aspects of the itinerary at our discretion. During the validity of the published itinerary conditions will change, roads are improved or deteriorate often opening up new routes, contracted camps and accommodation facilities change standards, optional activities become available or are discontinued, new border posts open and old ones become congested, etc. Drifters are continuously monitoring all of the factors that make up a successful tour and as such will make amendments to the published itineraries if circumstances demand or if we believe that the change will enhance the tour.

This trip is an accommodated tour and linen/towels will be supplied on all nights. PLEASE NOTE: During our time in the National Parks ( Days 7, 8, 9, 10 ) Drifters staff will set up mobile camps at un-fenced sites, using dome tents, camp beds, full linen, mobile showers, mobile toilets, etc. During this time our meals will be prepared by staff on the open campfire. This will allow us to experience the premium areas of the Parks and to enjoy a pure wilderness experience in relative comfort. Accommodation may vary from tour to tour depending on availability but clients will enjoy the same standard of accommodation on all tours. A valid passport is required by everyone. The tour will visit South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe. It is the client’s responsibility to insure they have the appropriate visas required for this trip to all the countries we visit. Some nationalities might need to obtain visas before departure as they cannot be obtained at the border. Seasonal malaria precautions are necessary and are locally obtainable. A barrel bag or backpack is best suited for this trip (suitcases do not fit into the space provided). An extra day bag or camera bag is advised. Spending money required will be for the restaurant meals, drinks, visas, tips, curios, airport transfers, and any other optional excursions. (Zimbabwe airport tax US$30-00 for those flying out on day 15 - subject to change.) Remember, help us by keeping an open mind and flexible mentality. Our price includes all food as specified, coffee, tea, juice at breakfast, transport, professional guide, mokoro hire, accommodation, group equipment, permits and park entrance fees. Our price does not include restaurant meals where stipulated, visas, tips, curios, optional excursions, alcohol, bottled water and soft drinks, airport tax, airport transfers and airfares. Before departure clients will be required to enter into an agreement pertaining to our booking conditions and general information as defined on our website and in our brochure. Clients are required to have their own comprehensive personal travel insurance.

Upcoming Travel Dates

Tue 30 Apr – Wed 15 May 2019
Tue 14 May – Wed 29 May 2019
Tue 25 Jun – Wed 10 Jul 2019
Tue 09 Jul – Wed 24 Jul 2019
Tue 06 Aug – Wed 21 Aug 2019
Tue 03 Sep – Wed 18 Sep 2019
Tue 17 Sep – Wed 02 Oct 2019
Tue 01 Oct – Wed 16 Oct 2019
Tue 15 Oct – Wed 30 Oct 2019
Tue 29 Oct – Wed 13 Nov 2019
Tue 12 Nov – Wed 27 Nov 2019
Tue 26 Nov – Wed 11 Dec 2019
Tue 10 Dec – Wed 25 Dec 2019
Tue 24 Dec – Wed 08 Jan 2020

* Low Season Rates 01 Jan to 30 Jun 2019 $5300.00 per person twin share basis * High Season Rates 01 Jul to 31 Dec 2019 $5490.00 per person twin share basis