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Okavango Experience

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Okavango Experience

Was From $ 2,500 AUD
Now From $ 2,250 AUD
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Description

See southern Africa’s incredible waterfalls, rivers and inland canals on this ten-day overland adventure. Canoe down the lush waterways of the Okavango Delta, watch hippos wallowing along the shores of the Chobe River, take a sunset cruise to spot exotic birdlife, witness the mirage of Makgadikgadi Salt Pans and stand in awe at the crashing white water of Victoria Falls with a full free day to customise your experience. After cruising in a mokoro, you’ll spend a night at camp in the remote Okavango wilderness and fall asleep to the uninterrupted sounds of the wild. With early morning game drives to spot Africa’s iconic wildlife and expert guides with all the knowledge – this is set to be an experience of a lifetime.

Trip Name
Okavango Experience
Last Updated
2024-09-02
Days
10
Capacity
22
Highlights
  • Support local conservation efforts with a visit to the Khama Rhino Sanctuary – the only place left in Botswana where both black and white rhinos reside.
  • Go wildlife-spotting with your small group and expert guides along the river on a sunset cruise at Chobe National Park, home to the world's highest concentration of African elephants.
  • Camp on a remote island in the heart of the Okavango wilderness for an experience you’ll never forget. As the sun sets and night falls, the sounds of Africa come alive!
  • Get your first glimpse of the thundering Victoria Falls and enjoy a full free day for optional adventures, so you can see the falls at your own pace and view the waterfalls from all angles.
  • Walk the Okavango Delta at sunrise, looking out for the resident hippos, crocodiles, elephants and big cats.
  • 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.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk. ROAD CONDITIONS AND INFRASTRUCTURE IN AFRICA: Roads in Africa are often in very poor condition, which makes it hard on our vehicles. Our vehicles are serviced regularly and are generally in good condition, but breakdowns can and do happen. Sometimes the going on this trip is quite tough, the distances covered fairly large and some of the roads and tracks are not exactly smooth or free from dust, but the rewards are exceptional. The travelling times indicated in our Essential Trip Information is just a rough guide and is dependent on various factors that may be outside our control, such as road conditions, weather and time spent at borders. DRIVE TIMES: The travel times listed in the day to day itinerary are a guide only. Please be aware that delays may occur and please be patient - it's all part of the experience afterall! Additionally, the travel times do not include time spent on game drives as these can vary with each departure.

Day 1 - Johannesburg
Sawubona! Welcome to South Africa. Your adventure begins in Johannesburg with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, maybe visit the eye-opening Apartheid Museum to start your journey with some crucial history before meeting up with your group. After the meeting, why not head out for an optional group dinner and get to know your newfound travel companions. Your leader can point you in the right direction with the best bar and restaurant recommendations.
Day 2 - Khama Rhino Sanctuary
Leaving South Africa behind, cross the border into Botswana this morning and travel towards the Khama Rhino Sanctuary. Situated on the edge of the Kalahari Desert, the Khama Rhino Sanctuary has drastically changed from a former hunting area to a conservation project. Built to protect Botswana's only remaining populations of both black and white rhinos, the sanctuary is also home to other wildlife including zebras, giraffes, leopards, ostriches and wildebeest, all of which can be seen grazing the many waterholes. Visiting this project benefits local communities and directly contributes to protecting the endangered white rhino. Later, you’ll head out on a dusk game drive to hopefully spot the rhinos when they’re most active.
Day 3 - Maun
This morning you’ll drive to Maun – the gateway to one of the world's most complex ecosystems, the Okavango Delta. A 16,000 square km maze of lush wetlands and waterways teeming with wildlife, this place is unlike anywhere else in the world. When you arrive, there will be an opportunity to stock up on any supplies you might need for your adventure ahead. Look out for the resident hippos, crocodiles, elephants and big cats in the delta. The animals aren’t the only drawcard, though! The waterscapes and shimmering horizon are enough to write home about.
Day 4 - Okavango Delta
Today you’ll get right in the action and jump aboard a traditional mokoro – a dugout canoe steered by friendly local 'polers'. Cruise the Okavango waterways and look out for the delta's unusual wildlife and exotic birds. Spend some time today exploring the maze of lagoons, lakes and streams on foot too, with your experienced local guides. Tonight, you’ll camp on a remote island right in the heart of the wilderness! Fall asleep to the humming and buzzing of the African heartlands and soak up one of those ‘I’m so far from home’ moments.
Day 5 - Okavango Delta
Wake up nice and early this morning and head out on a sunrise walk. Along the way, keep watch for elephants and if the timing is right, you might also come across some Cape buffalo! These noble-looking beasts are more dangerous than they look and their horns double as bone shield that's fittingly known as a 'boss'. Return to camp for breakfast, where you’ll have the rest of the day to relax. A refreshing swim, or maybe a nap could be on the cards – both good ideas in the warmer part of the day. Alternatively, take another optional mokoro trip to soak up that serene river atmosphere.
Day 6 - Maun
After taking down your camp, return to the ‘poler’ station by mokoro, before continuing to Maun by vehicle. When you arrive, you’ll visit a local brewery that produces beer with millet grown by small-scale farmers. The brewery is supported by the travellers, and they in turn support the farmers. This initiative enhances the benefits of sustainable farming and ties them to the region’s wildlife economy. After touring the brewery, you’ll sit down for an included dinner and a beer tasting. Around midday, you might also have the opportunity to take a scenic flight (depending on the flood water levels). Tonight, settle in at a camp on the outskirts of town.
Day 7 - Nata
Get up early and hit the road for Nata. This small town sits near the stunning Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, which are some of the largest on Earth covering around 12,000 square km. This afternoon, you’ll take an excursion in an open-air vehicle to explore these seemingly endless plains in the Nata Bird Sanctuary. Surrounded by the Kalahari Desert, the pans are naturally dry and salty for a large part of the year. During this time, the arid landscape has an eerie feel and the heat mirages can make you feel disoriented. After the rains hit, the pans become a grassy refuge for migratory birds and animals – a perfect setting for wildlife lovers!
Day 8 - Chobe National Park
Hit the road this morning and make tracks for Chobe National Park – Botswana's first ever national park. This area is perhaps best known for its high concentration of elephants, which can often be seen swimming in the Chobe River. The river also attracts wallowing hippos, crocodiles by the water's edge, cheetahs, lions and a huge variety of birdlife. When you arrive, you’ll be treated to a sunset cruise on the Chobe River – an ideal way to spend the afternoon, watch the sun descend and toast to another day in Africa.
Day 9 - Victoria Falls
Why not wake up early and see Chobe National Park from a different perspective with an optional morning game drive. After, the group will travel to Victoria Falls, crossing the border into Zimbabwe just in time to have lunch on the banks of the Zambezi River. Then, you’ll have free time to experience the sights and sounds of the mighty falls at your own pace. This thundering curtain of water is about 1.7 km wide, falling 108 m into a narrow gorge below. In the wet season, the spray can rise an incredible 400 m as the falls become a raging torrent. In the dry season, the view of the falls is unobstructed by spray, and you can see the little islets in the river below.
Day 10 - Victoria Falls
There are no activities planned after breakfast today and your adventure comes to an end. You're free to leave at any time after check out. If you'd like to extend your stay, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation. If you’re staying longer in Victoria Falls and are feeling adventurous, you might like to try whitewater rafting and canoeing. For an incredible scenic helicopter flight, choose Zambezi Helicopter Company (CAA Zimbabwe), the only Intrepid-endorsed operator. Your leader can help you arrange this.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
06-12-202415-12-2024AUD $ 2,250-
13-12-202422-12-2024AUD $ 2,250-
15-12-202424-12-2024AUD $ 2,250-
20-12-202429-12-2024AUD $ 2,272-
27-12-202405-01-2025AUD $ 2,525-
03-01-202512-01-2025AUD $ 2,270-
17-01-202526-01-2025AUD $ 2,380-
31-01-202509-02-2025AUD $ 2,380-
28-02-202509-03-2025AUD $ 2,290-
14-03-202523-03-2025AUD $ 2,290-
28-03-202506-04-2025AUD $ 2,290-
04-04-202513-04-2025AUD $ 2,290-
11-04-202520-04-2025AUD $ 2,313-
18-04-202527-04-2025AUD $ 2,290-
20-04-202529-04-2025AUD $ 2,290-
25-04-202504-05-2025AUD $ 2,290-
02-05-202511-05-2025AUD $ 2,290-
09-05-202518-05-2025AUD $ 2,290-
16-05-202525-05-2025AUD $ 2,290-
23-05-202501-06-2025AUD $ 2,290-
30-05-202508-06-2025AUD $ 2,290-
06-06-202515-06-2025AUD $ 2,380-
13-06-202522-06-2025AUD $ 2,380-
15-06-202524-06-2025AUD $ 2,380-
20-06-202529-06-2025AUD $ 2,380-
27-06-202506-07-2025AUD $ 2,452-
29-06-202508-07-2025AUD $ 2,380-
04-07-202513-07-2025AUD $ 2,380-
11-07-202520-07-2025AUD $ 2,475-
13-07-202522-07-2025AUD $ 2,475-
18-07-202527-07-2025AUD $ 2,475-
20-07-202529-07-2025AUD $ 2,475-
25-07-202503-08-2025AUD $ 2,475-
27-07-202505-08-2025AUD $ 2,475-
01-08-202510-08-2025AUD $ 2,475-
08-08-202517-08-2025AUD $ 2,475-
10-08-202519-08-2025AUD $ 2,475-
15-08-202524-08-2025AUD $ 2,475-
22-08-202531-08-2025AUD $ 2,475-
24-08-202502-09-2025AUD $ 2,475-
29-08-202507-09-2025AUD $ 2,475-
05-09-202514-09-2025AUD $ 2,547-
07-09-202516-09-2025AUD $ 2,475-
12-09-202521-09-2025AUD $ 2,475-
14-09-202523-09-2025AUD $ 2,475-
19-09-202528-09-2025AUD $ 2,475-
21-09-202530-09-2025AUD $ 2,475-
26-09-202505-10-2025AUD $ 2,475-
03-10-202512-10-2025AUD $ 2,475-
10-10-202519-10-2025AUD $ 2,380-
17-10-202526-10-2025AUD $ 2,380-
24-10-202502-11-2025AUD $ 2,380-
31-10-202509-11-2025AUD $ 2,380-
07-11-202516-11-2025AUD $ 2,290-
09-11-202518-11-2025AUD $ 2,290-
14-11-202523-11-2025AUD $ 2,290-
21-11-202530-11-2025AUD $ 2,290-
28-11-202507-12-2025AUD $ 2,380-
05-12-202514-12-2025AUD $ 2,380-
12-12-202521-12-2025AUD $ 2,380-
19-12-202528-12-2025AUD $ 2,645-
21-12-202530-12-2025AUD $ 2,645-
26-12-202504-01-2026AUD $ 2,645-
02-01-202611-01-2026AUD $ 2,775-
16-01-202625-01-2026AUD $ 2,775-
30-01-202608-02-2026AUD $ 2,775-
13-02-202622-02-2026AUD $ 2,670-
20-02-202601-03-2026AUD $ 2,670-
27-02-202608-03-2026AUD $ 2,670-
06-03-202615-03-2026AUD $ 2,670-
13-03-202622-03-2026AUD $ 2,670-
15-03-202624-03-2026AUD $ 2,545-
20-03-202629-03-2026AUD $ 2,670-
27-03-202605-04-2026AUD $ 2,670-
03-04-202612-04-2026AUD $ 2,670-
10-04-202619-04-2026AUD $ 2,670-
17-04-202626-04-2026AUD $ 2,670-
19-04-202628-04-2026AUD $ 2,670-
24-04-202603-05-2026AUD $ 2,670-
01-05-202610-05-2026AUD $ 2,670-
08-05-202617-05-2026AUD $ 2,670-
15-05-202624-05-2026AUD $ 2,670-
22-05-202631-05-2026AUD $ 2,670-
24-05-202602-06-2026AUD $ 2,545-
29-05-202607-06-2026AUD $ 2,670-
05-06-202614-06-2026AUD $ 2,775-
12-06-202621-06-2026AUD $ 2,775-
14-06-202623-06-2026AUD $ 2,775-
19-06-202628-06-2026AUD $ 2,775-
26-06-202605-07-2026AUD $ 2,775-
28-06-202607-07-2026AUD $ 2,775-
03-07-202612-07-2026AUD $ 2,885-
10-07-202619-07-2026AUD $ 2,885-
12-07-202621-07-2026AUD $ 2,885-
17-07-202626-07-2026AUD $ 2,885-
19-07-202628-07-2026AUD $ 2,545-
24-07-202602-08-2026AUD $ 2,885-
26-07-202604-08-2026AUD $ 2,885-
31-07-202609-08-2026AUD $ 2,885-
07-08-202616-08-2026AUD $ 2,885-
09-08-202618-08-2026AUD $ 2,885-
14-08-202623-08-2026AUD $ 2,885-
16-08-202625-08-2026AUD $ 2,545-
21-08-202630-08-2026AUD $ 2,885-
23-08-202601-09-2026AUD $ 2,885-
28-08-202606-09-2026AUD $ 2,885-
04-09-202613-09-2026AUD $ 2,885-
06-09-202615-09-2026AUD $ 2,885-
11-09-202620-09-2026AUD $ 2,885-
13-09-202622-09-2026AUD $ 2,885-
18-09-202627-09-2026AUD $ 2,885-
20-09-202629-09-2026AUD $ 2,885-
25-09-202604-10-2026AUD $ 2,885-
27-09-202606-10-2026AUD $ 2,545-
02-10-202611-10-2026AUD $ 2,885-
09-10-202618-10-2026AUD $ 2,775-
16-10-202625-10-2026AUD $ 2,775-
23-10-202601-11-2026AUD $ 2,775-
30-10-202608-11-2026AUD $ 2,775-
06-11-202615-11-2026AUD $ 2,670-
08-11-202617-11-2026AUD $ 2,670-
13-11-202622-11-2026AUD $ 2,670-
20-11-202629-11-2026AUD $ 2,775-
27-11-202606-12-2026AUD $ 2,775-
04-12-202613-12-2026AUD $ 2,775-
11-12-202620-12-2026AUD $ 2,775-
18-12-202627-12-2026AUD $ 2,775-
20-12-202629-12-2026AUD $ 2,775-
25-12-202603-01-2027AUD $ 2,775-

Accommodation

Camping (with facilities) (6 nights),Bush camp (no facilities) (2 nights),Hotel (1 night)

Transport

Overland vehicle,Open safari vehicle

Map