Premium Southern Africa in Depth

Intrepid Travel · 14 days

4.7

10 Reviews

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Duration

14 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Unknown

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Uncover the true beauty of southern Africa on a 14-day Premium adventure through South Africa, Zimbabwe and Botswana.

Highlights

Enjoy two magnificent Feature Stays – a perfectly positioned camp on the Namibian banks of the Zambezi River, and a scenic lodge in a private reserve within the Greater Kruger Region.
Let Exclusive Experiences take you closer to nature, including a 4x4 drive through the striking Makgadikgadi Pans and a privately catered cruise down the Zambezi River.
Spot Chobe National Park's abundant wildlife and the world’s highest concentration of elephants from multiple vantage points with an early morning 4x4 game drive, and an afternoon boat cruise along the picturesque Chobe River.
Seek out the Big Five of Africa – lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and rhino with two full days in South Africa’s biggest reserve, Kruger National Park, in 4x4s with an expert local guide.
Visit the thundering Victoria Falls, one of the world's most spectacular natural wonders. Admire their power, then return to your comfortable lodge boasting magnificent views of uninterrupted wilderness.

Trip Details

Duration

14 days

Transportation

4x4,Open 4x4 Safari Vehicle,Private vehicle,Plane,Riverboat

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Johannesburg, Botswana

Finishes

Maun, Botswana

Accommodations

Unknown

Travel Style

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

Day 1: Johannesburg

Welcome to South Africa! Your trip begins in Johannesburg, where you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Please ensure that you organise the details of your arrival transfer well in advance. You'll meet the rest of your group and leader for a welcome meeting at 6pm, but if you do happen to arrive early, the day is yours to spend at leisure. After your meeting, join your leader and fellow travellers for dinner at your hotel. South Africa enjoys a diverse food scene flavoured by its multicultural influences. This evening you may like to try some boerewors, a spiced South African sausage, or perhaps some springbok carpaccio.

Included Activities:

Johannesburg - Welcome Dinner
Complimentary Arrival Transfer - OR Tambo International Airport to Johannesburg Hotel

Accommodation:

The Maslow Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Kruger National Park

Set off early for a drive to Kruger National Park, arriving just in time for lunch at Mdluli Safari Lodge, your Feature Stay accommodation for the next two nights. Developed in partnership with the local Mdluli community, the lodge is in perfect harmony with its wild surroundings. Luxury tents feature first-class amenities, with private en suites, indoor and outdoor showers, air-conditioning and a gorgeous infinity pool overlooking the Kruger bush. Sit back and relax in the cozy lounge of the main lodge and take in spectacular views. In the afternoon, you'll enjoy your first open 4WD safari. Experience close encounters with wild animals in their own habitat, and if you’re lucky, you may see lions, elephants, rhinos and leopards. Retire to your lodge in the evening.

Included Activities:

Kruger National Park - Afternoon 4WD Safari

Accommodation:

Mdluli Safari Lodge (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Kruger National Park

Rise early and make the journey into the heart of Kruger National Park. Upon entry, you'll find yourself in the perfect position to catch a glimpse of one, or hopefully all, of Africa's iconic animals. Stop at a picnic spot to enjoy your packed breakfast, then proceed with a full-day wildlife safari, stopping off at waterholes and various other points to observe animals in their natural habitats. One of the largest game reserves in Southern Africa, Kruger National Park is home to not only members of the Big Five but also 500 bird species, 100 reptile species, and 150 mammal species. The endangered African wild dog, herbivores like hippo, zebra, giraffe and numerous different types of antelope also enjoy the park’s rich mosaic of habitats, including savanna, mixed acacia woodland, rocky hills and mopane woodland. Today's game drive will finish in time for sunset and drinks, served on a kopje at your Feature Stay. Pronounced 'kopee' these large ancient rock formations provide scenic contrasts across Africa's vast landscapes. Take a moment to sit back and take in the sounds and sights of the bush as day turns to night.

Included Activities:

Kruger National Park - Full Day 4WD Safari
Kruger National Park - Sundowner Drinks

Accommodation:

Mdluli Safari Lodge (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Victoria Falls

Rise early and depart for Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, where you will say goodbye to South Africa and board a mid-morning flight to Victoria Falls airport in Zimbabwe. Continue to your lodge accommodation, which serves up stunning views of uninterrupted wilderness and a waterhole frequented by elephant, buffalo, kudu and more. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the pool or spotting wildlife from any of the multiple viewing decks around the lodge. This evening head above the falls onto the Zambezi River and embark on a small and intimate dinner cruise. The specially designed jet-propelled boats allow you to reach the shallow water among the islands directly above Victoria Falls. Two private chefs will prepare dinner with locally sourced fresh ingredients and serve drinks while the captain navigates the islands above the thundering Victoria Falls. Sit back in your comfortable lounge chair as you enjoy a four-course meal while looking out for crocodiles lazing on the banks or elephants and hippos submerging themselves in the river – this is truly an experience to remember.

Included Activities:

Victoria Falls - Zambezi River Dinner Cruise

Optional Activities:

Victoria Falls - Helicopter Flight (25 mins - Excludes US$30 fuel surcharge and NP fees) (284 USD)
Victoria Falls - Helicopter Flight of the Angels (12 mins - Excludes US$25 fuel surcharge and NP fees) (150 USD)

Accommodation:

Victoria Falls Safari Lodge or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls is one of the world's most awe-inspiring natural wonders of the world. Plunging over 100 meters into a deep gorge, its raw power and beauty are simply breathtaking. With an expert guide, explore the rich flora, fauna, birdlife, and fascinating history of this World Heritage Site, while capturing incredible photos of "The Smoke that Thunders" along the way. The rest of the day is yours to relax, or take part in the many optional activities available in Victoria Falls.

Included Activities:

Victoria Falls - Guided Tour

Optional Activities:

Victoria Falls - Traditional Village Tour (55 USD)
Victoria Falls - Jet Boat (Seasonal - excludes USD10 NP Fee) (110 USD)
Victoria Falls - Whitewater rafting (Seasonal - excludes USD10 NP Fee) (126 USD)
Victoria Falls - Bridge Swing (168 USD)

Accommodation:

Victoria Falls Safari Lodge or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Chobe National Park

Enjoy a leisurely morning before you depart Zimbabwe and make the journey to Chobe National Park in Botswana, crossing the Kazangula border. The afternoon is free to walk in Kasane town (watch out for wandering warthogs!), sit poolside on the edge of the Chobe River and watch the sunset, or perhaps opt for an optional afternoon game drive in Chobe National Park.

Accommodation:

Chobe Safari Lodge or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Chobe National Park

Start the day with a game drive through Chobe National Park, the first designated national park in Botswana. Chobe is known for its huge population of elephants and buffalo and you may well see them drinking at the local watering hole during the drive. Then head back to the lodge for breakfast. Afterwards embark on a cruise along the picturesque Chobe River, an ideal location for spotting bird life such as saddle-billed storks, malachite kingfishers, fish eagles and beautiful bee-eaters as well as hippos, crocodiles and large families of elephants often seen crossing the river between the boats. You will be joined by other travellers on the boat cruise which has a toilet and small bar to purchase drinks. Enjoy a drink on board and watch the sun set over the river.

Included Activities:

Chobe National Park - River cruise
Chobe National Park - Morning 4x4 Game Drive

Accommodation:

Chobe Safari Lodge or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Chobe National Park

Today is free for you to enjoy in Chobe National Park. Relax at your hotel or perhaps take a game driver for yet another opportunity to spot the amazing wildlife that call this special part of Africa home. You'll meet your new group and leader for a welcome meeting at 6pm. After, head out for dinner at the lodge. Enjoy a celebration of Indigenous food and the rich flavours of Africa as you dine alongside the scenic Chobe River.

Included Activities:

Chobe - Welcome Dinner

Optional Activities:

Chobe National Park - 4x4 Game Drive (580 BWP)

Accommodation:

Chobe Safari Lodge or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Zambezi River

Rise early for a morning game drive in Chobe National Park. You might see elephants drinking at the water's edge, large herds of cape buffaloes and many impalas within the park. Head back to the lodge for breakfast, then journey to the Ngoma Border Post before continuing to the Namibian side of the Zambezi River. Tonight you’ll stay in your Feature Stay accommodation – the fabulous Zambezi Mubala Lodge. Newly built, the Zambezi Mubala is a secret river hideaway where you can find hippos, vervet monkeys and over 450 species of birds. Arrive in time for a hearty lunch at the lodge, then enjoy some downtime to relax by the pool, spot wildlife from the bar or soak up the wild surroundings on the banks of the Zambezi River. Speak to your leader about the optional activities for the afternoon, including a canoe trip, guided walking trail or a birding drive.

Included Activities:

Chobe National Park - 4x4 Game Drive

Accommodation:

Zambezi Mubala Lodge (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Zambezi River

Today, enjoy a restful morning at your Feature Stay. This afternoon, take a cruise down the Zambezi River. The privileged position of your camp allows you to access a part of the river that most visitors don’t get to see, which means you can view the abundant wildlife without the crowds – look out for large herds of elephants, buffalo and antelope. After, head back to the lodge for dinner and watch the sunset change the colours of the landscape.

Included Activities:

Zambezi River - Afternoon River Cruise

Optional Activities:

Zambezi River - Morning River Cruise (750 NAD)

Accommodation:

Zambezi Mubala Lodge (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Makgadikgadi Pans

Heading south, cross the Ngoma border back into Botswana and continue your journey to the vast salt flats and grassy plains of the Makgadikgadi Pans. Located in the north-east of Botswana, the Makgadikgadi Pans sit in the middle of a dry savanna and are all that remain of the former Lake Makgadikgadi. This afternoon, you’ll head out on a 4WD excursion. The immense, sprawling salt flat will unfold in front of you as you look out for birds and animals, some who are seasonal visitors and some who call the area home all year. Sit out on the pans and enjoy drinks and snacks as the sun sets, then return to the lodge for dinner.

Included Activities:

Makgadikgadi Pans - Sunset 4x4 Excursion & Sundowner

Accommodation:

Nata Lodge or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Maun

Travel to the edge of the Ntwetwe Salt Pans, home to a resident family of meerkats. With the aid of trackers, you'll observe their morning rituals – watch the meerkats bask in the morning sun before heading out for their daily foraging. When you’ve had your fill of watching these magnificent creatures, you’ll stop at a neighbouring lodge for lunch, then continue to Maun – the gateway to the Okavango Delta, one of the world's most complex ecosystems.

Included Activities:

Makgadikgadi Pans - Meerkat & Kalahari Bushman Experience

Accommodation:

Maun Lodge or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Maun (Okavango Delta)

Today, you'll take a traditional mokoro (a dugout canoe steered by friendly local 'polers') for an Okavango waterways experience. With some luck, you might spot some of the delta's wildlife or exotic birdlife. Spend some time exploring the maze of lagoons, lakes and streams by mokoro before exploring on foot with a local guide. View plants, trees and animals from a different perspective and observe close-up details often missed on game drives. Your guide will provide expert knowledge and help you gain a deeper understanding of the environment. Lunch will be served on one of the many secluded islands created by the Delta waterways.

Included Activities:

Okavango Delta - Mokoro safari
Okavango Delta - Expert Guided Bush Walk

Accommodation:

Maun Lodge or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 14: Maun

Today, your trip comes to an end after breakfast, but this doesn’t mean the adventure has to end! If you’d like to spend more time here, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation. For those interested, there is the opportunity to fly over the delta in a helicopter for a bird's-eye view. This is a great way to appreciate the vast scale of this waterscape. Your leader can give you more information on this activity and how to reserve a place.

Optional Activities:

Okavango Delta - Helicopter Scenic Flight (280 USD)

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $15,725

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 14 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Uncover the true beauty of southern Africa on a 14-day Premium adventure through South Africa, Zimbabwe and Botswana.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 15 Aug 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

Craig

Traveled, May 2025

05/17/2025

Overall an excellent trip which included many safaris. As nd the fantastic Victoria Falls.

4.5

David

Traveled, September 2024

09/25/2024

In use of expert tour guides and drivers added to the Majesty of our vacation. We not only saw wondrous sites in Africa, but met wonderful people and had the opportunity to develop lifelong friendships. I can’t see enough good things about the people that work for intrepid, and they other travelers on our small group tour.

Tour Operator

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

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