Wild Botswana - 4WD Safari - Back Track Adventures

Itinerary

Day 1

South Africa – Johannesburg – Safari Club

On arrival in Johannesburg, you will be met by representatives of the Safari Club Hotel. The Club is conveniently located 5 minutes from the international airport. The privately owned Safari Club offers a warm African welcome, and friendly African hospitality, the perfect introduction to the relaxed theme of your holiday over the coming weeks. This afternoon you will meet with your fellow adventurers and guide team to discuss all aspects of the safari.

Day 2

Waterberg – Matamba Campsite

Start today with an early breakfast at the Safari Club, then transfer by Avis to the safari rentals depot. Here you will be given a comprehensive rundown on the operation of your 4WD vehicle. Once the Avis hire, insurance and deposit forms are completed and monies receipted, the convoy will head north from Johannesburg, stopping at a modern supermarket complex where you can stock up on any necessary provisions. The route today is easy highway driving allowing you to familiarize yourself with the handling characteristics of your hire vehicle. Our destination tonight is Matamba Bush Camp, located in the stunningly beautiful Waterberg region of the Limpopo Province. Set in beautiful open woodland, the private campsites are well spaced and have all the amenities for a comfortable overnight camp. Distance 255km/Time 3hrs. (Breakfast and Dinner provided)

Day 3

Botswana – Serowe – Khama Rhino Sanctuary

The drive today continues into sandy Kalahari Desert country with low mopane vegetation and eventually crosses the Botswana border. The border crossing is an easy procedure with all the necessary paperwork prepared in advance by Avis. Your guides will assist. Our destination today is Khama Rhino Sanctuary. The Khama Rhino Sanctuary is a community based wildlife project, established in 1992 to assist in saving the vanishing rhinoceros, restore an area formerly teeming with wildlife to its previous natural state and provide economic benefits to the local community through tourism and the sustainable use of natural resources. Covering approximately, 8,585 hectares of Kalahari Sandveld, the sanctuary provides prime habitat for white and black rhino as well as over 30 other animal species and more than 230 species of birds. Campsites at the Sanctuary are each centred by a large Mokongwa tree which provides both character and shade. There is also a fireplace, bbq stand with grill, and tap with birdbath. Distance 365km/Time 4hrs. (Dinner provided)

Day 4

Maun -Sedia Hotel Campsite

Today we travel through Kalahara desert country to Maun, a bustling government administration centre and safari tourism hub. Maun is the Southeastern gateway to the famous Okavango Delta eco system. Here, we will be able to refuel vehicles and replenish all necessary supplies before we head off grid for the next 6 days. We camp at the Sedia Hotel campground, peacefully located on the Thamalakane River. The campsite has all facilities, and we have access to the hotel bar and pool. From Maun till we get to Kasane, we will travel mostly in 4WD. Distance 524km/Time 6-8 hrs. (Dinner provided)

Okavango Delta Eco System

Wildlife

Famous for its large elephant herds, the Okavango will not disappoint for the quantity and quality of animals and birds you are likely to see on your stay within the various regions of this vast area. Large herds of cape buffalo are common, as are Burchell’s zebra and family groups of giraffes, baboons, warthog, vervet monkeys, jackal, lions, honey badgers, banded mongoose, and hopefully cheetah on the open flood plains and leopard are often spotted especially by those fortunate to be camping within the park such as our Team. The list is endless, wild dog, hyena, hippos, 19 species of antelope, from the 700kg Eland to 7kg Sharpe’s grysbok, your days and nights are sure to provide wildlife encounters that will enthral. The bird life is also spectacular with the ever present lilac breasted roller adding constant splashes of colour to just about every scene and with such varied habitats from grasslands to forest and scrub areas there are over 400 recorded species spotted. Watching the majestic fish eagle swooping down into a waterhole or river to collect a fish is a never to be forgotten moment on any safari.

Days 5-7

Moremi Area

From Maun, we enter the Okavango Delta eco system. A few kilometres outside Maun, the roads become tracks and we now move into 4wd. The condition of the roads and the quantity and quality of wildlife spotted will determine our drive times. Though the parks and reserves have border lines defined on maps, the wildlife do not heed the boundary lines and the entire northern part of Botswana is wildlife domain. For 3 nights, we will move camp daily to the most sought-after campsites in this region, Kazikini, 3rd Bridge and Xakanaka. These sites have to be booked more than 12 months in advance. Be prepared for whatever adventures come our way. The terrain is incredible and varies from sand tracks, water crossings, deep forests and plains areas and everything in between. The wildlife is prolific and expect up close and thrilling experiences. Campsites offer varying facilities, however we will be self-sufficient enough to be comfortable. We are hoping to have an opportunity to explore the local waterways by mokoro (canoe) with expert polers. Distance 60km. Time 2-4 hrs. (Dinners provided) 21 DAYS – 15 NIGHTS X CAMPING / 5 NIGHTS X SAFARI LODGES

Days 8-9

Khwai Area – Magotho Community Campsite

We leave Moremi and take up residence at Mogotho Community Campsite. Only 73 kilometres from Kaziikini, this is one of our favourite campsites on the entire trip. Located on the Khwai river, there is always an abundance of game in the area. The campsites are large and spaced far apart. Elephants are common and have a habit of inspecting new campers. Lions calling at night, hippos in the river, hyenas and plenty of herd animals make this area a wonderful experience. Once again, game drives will fill our days. We don’t have to leave our camp to observe the birds and animals. Here we really enjoy, camping out and eating around the campfire at night, which is always a favourite African safari experience. During our stay here, you might have an opportunity to participate in an optional local canoe experience (mokoro) through the vast network of freshwater channels which fan out like a giant web through the eco system. Distance 73km. Time 2-4 hrs. (Dinner provided)

Days 10-11

Chobe Area – Thobolo’s Safari Lodge

After breaking camp at Magotho, we drive North using the maze of tracks and sand roads to make our way through to the southern approach to Chobe National Park. We travel slowly in 4wd, all the time on the watch for the wildlife. The area is wildlife rich and spectacular sights are always possible. Our campsite at Thobolo’s Lodge provides excellent, modern camp facilities with access to the verandah bar in the lodge, which overlooks a waterhole perfect for sundowner drinks and relaxing. Distance 160ks. Time 5-6 hrs (Dinner provided)

Days 11-12

Chobe National Park Area – Ihaha Campsite

We break camp this morning and continue northwards on sand roads till we hit the bitumen and the main road through to Kasane. We soon turn off the bitumen once again and navigate sand tracks through to our campsite on the mighty Chobe River. Our camp overlooks the Chobe River flood plains with panoramic views into Namibia. A wonderful base to immerse ourselves in the Elephant herds that frequent the area. Distance 80 Kms (Dinner provided)

Day 13

Kasane – Thebe Safari Lodge

Easy relaxed day. We break camp late and meander our way down the tracks along the Chobe River. Our destination is Thebe Safari Lodge campsite in Kasane, the northern entrance to the Okavango Delta eco system. As we get closer to Kasane we will encounter large safari vehicles carrying passengers on day excursions into the park. The quantity and variety of animal and birdlife encountered today is incredible. After setting up camp, we will prepare our luggage for our next safari adventure at Victoria Falls. Tonight, you will meet our host for the next 3 nights, Trish Pritchard, who will have journeyed from Victoria Falls ready to escort us over the border tomorrow. Distance 52 KMS (Dinner provided)

Day 14

Zimbabwe – Victoria Falls -Amadeus Lodge

After breakfast, we will pack up the vehicles, leaving them in safe storage at Thebe River Lodge. We won’t need our 4wd’s in Vic Falls. It’s a short drive by minibus across the border to our home base for the next 3 nights at the very comfortable Amadeus Lodge, peacefully located in Vic Falls leafy suburbs. Accommodation is on a twin share basis. After settling into your rooms, we will receive a complete run down on all the activities planned for your stay and organise any of the optional activities you may wish to experience. Popular options include helicopter and micro light flights over the Falls, guided walks, white water rafting and zip line adventures. The options list is extensive. A full list will be provided before you depart Australia so you can plan. It is best to have a peaceful late afternoon at the lodge resting after your long Botswana adventure. This evening we head out for a welcome to Africa dinner at Dusty Roads restaurant. Distance 110km/Time 3 hrs. (Restaurant dinner provided)

Day 15

Victoria Falls – Amadeus Lodge

After a leisurely breakfast by the pool, you will be transferred down to the Falls National Park for a private guided tour. It is an easy graded walk which encompasses the best Falls viewpoints, so you’re assured to get great pics. Depending on individual optional activities selected today, those who cannot join the tour this morning will have an opportunity to do the tour tomorrow morning. Our Vic Falls crew are on duty to help coordinate and arrange all the activities so you can maximise your time to really enjoy your stay. At some time during your visit, ‘High Tea’ on the veranda of the iconic Victoria Falls Hotel is a must. Late afternoon, we head off for a dinner cruise on the Zambezi River. Enjoying a spectacular African sunset with the hippos is a wonderful way to finish a day in Victoria Falls. (Breakfast, restaurant dinner provided)

Day 16

Victoria Falls flight option, recommended.

Our last full day to enjoy the Falls area. Once again, after a leisurely breakfast, there will be an opportunity to tour the Falls for anyone who missed the earlier guided tour. Once your optional activities are finished, a visit to the curio markets for shopping is always fun and nearby coffee shops, bars, and small restaurants make the experience very relaxing. The curio markets in Victoria Falls are amazing, so you will have ample chance to purchase gifts for family and friends. Dinner tonight is at the Lookout Restaurant, spectacularly located overlooking the Victoria Falls gorge. (Breakfast, restaurant dinner)

Day 17

Botswana- Thebe Safari Lodge – Camp

After a relaxed breakfast, we are farewelled by Trish and transferred over the border to our camp at Thebe Safari Lodge. This afternoon, we resupply our vehicles and prepare for our return journey to Johannesburg. Distance 110Ks/Time 3 hrs. (Dinner provided)

Day 18

Elephant Sands Lodge – Camp

Our destination today is the Elephant Sands Lodge campsite. Large herds of elephants are known to frequent the area. As the sun sets, settle down with an ice-cold drink from the bar and watch the elephant’s antics at the waterhole, or drinking from the lodge swimming pool, located immediately in front of the bar. Distance 255Ks/Time 4.30 hrs. (Dinner provided)

Day 19

Goo Moremi Gorge – Camp

A highway drive today to a beautiful camp site for our last safari night on the road. Goo Moremi Gorge is a beautiful reserve with stunning scenery, abundant wildlife and a top-class camp area. Here we can relax around our last night’s campfire and contemplate the amazing adventure that we have all shared. Distance 511Ks/Time 8 hrs. (Dinner provided)

Day 20

South Africa – Safari Club – Johannesburg

Our last day on the road. We cross the border into South Africa and take a slow-paced trip down the main highway and return our vehicles to the Avis Safari Rentals depot, complete the handover paperwork and back to the Safari Club for a hot shower and our last night celebration. For many this might be the end of their African adventure and tomorrow will be heading back home. For anyone wishing to extend their stay, we can recommend a short visit to Cape Town or even a wine tour through the famous South African winelands. There are also several very interesting short-day tours around Johannesburg that may be of interest. Please ask our consultants about options. Distance: 433Ks/Time 6hrs

Day 21

Departure Day

Safari Club transfer to international airport. Itinerary ends. (Breakfast included) VICTORIA FALLS WILDLIFE TRUST. Back Track Adventures supports the ongoing work of the Wildlife trust. Please ask for details.

Pricing

Category (A) 2.2 litre manual – from $9,950 per person
Category (L) 2.2 Litre auto recommended – from $10,750 per person

Inclusions

Hire of a 2.2 litre auto or manual, airconditioned, 4wd Avis safari vehicle fully kitted for camping, including bed linen, doonas, pillows, pillow slips
All road taxes, cross border fees and post tour cleaning fees
All park entry and camp fees
Australian escort and local guides
Dinners on most nights, including special event dinners in Victoria Falls, breakfast on 5 days
Private tour of Victoria Falls
Twin share accommodation in 4-star lodges on 5 nights
Arrival and departure transfers in Africa
Extensive pre departure information and advice to ensure your preparations are complete
Pre departure Zoom web meeting for all participants which includes our African guides
Services of our Travel Agency team for all travel arrangements
24-hour emergency contact while on holiday
Commemorative safari shirt and cap.

Exclusions

Flights from Australia are not included. Please contact us for best available airfares. Enquire early as flights to Africa in 2023 are in high demand.
Travel insurance, vaccinations if required, single supplement accommodation, any extra tours purchased in Victoria Falls and in Delta area.

Other costs for budgeting – the following are approximate and will depend on personal requirements:

• Medical/Vaccination: $150 – $250

• Personal spending money: for breakfast, lunch, snacks, drinks -$500

• Fuel: approx. allow $700 per vehicle

• Avis Safari rental’s vehicle insurance Waiver.
Two options are available:- Standard Cover, or Super Cover. A refundable deposit/bond, and, insurance waiver cover, both processed by Avis as sales, are required at vehicle handover.

• Standard Cover is included in the tour price.
* A refundable deposit is required with Standard cover = R30,000
Super Cover: You can upgrade to Super cover at time of handover in Johannesburg.

• Cost:– 19 days @ South African Rand, R500 per day = R9,500
Refundable deposit required with Super Cover = R4,000

Copy of Avis Safari Rentals insurance waiver details and terms and conditions.

Trip Highlights

An exclusive opportunity to experience a guided, self-drive African safari holiday, rarely available to the public
Up close and personal encounters with Africa’s amazing wildlife, including outstanding bird viewing
Breathtaking iconic African scenery including Victoria Falls
The exhilaration experienced from a shared small team adventure
Strictly limited to 4 vehicles to ensure our minimum impact on wilderness areas visited
Immersion in the wilds of the African bush
Utilising the best campsites available (pre booked), with campfires and bush dinners
Fall asleep to the enthralling sounds of Africa’s wildlife under star filled skies
3 days of adventure in Victoria Falls in beautiful lodge accommodation.

Bookings closed

If this is the adventure for you, we’re here to make it happen. Contact us for more information.

Enquire about this journey

Wild Botswana – 4WD Safari

You drive / We guide

05 - 25 August 2024 (21 Days)

Journey through wild Botswana plus Victoria Falls