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Guided Walking : Africa

Botswana & Zambia Safari: Victoria Falls to the Okavango Delta

Easy to Moderate Terrain: 1-3 hours on walking days

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Botswana & Zambia Safari: Victoria Falls to the Okavango Delta - 2019 Map

It’s been said of Africa, “To commune with wildlife, do as it does and follow the water.” You do just that during this extraordinary adventure into Zambia and Botswana. By foot and mokoro canoe—and by safari vehicle where your feet can’t take you—explore the sweeping veld close to the earth, walking in riverine worlds and pristine bush in search of creatures great and small. Linger over the lush and revealing details, your senses heightened to sights and sounds that safari vehicles pass by, gazing upon breathtaking wildlife from afar. Witness the river rituals of hippos along the Zambezi River and walk a mist-soaked forest along the roaring Victoria Falls. Marvel as elephants bathe in the Chobe River before your eyes. Drift along the labyrinthine rivulets of the Okavango Delta among a sea of swaying reeds. By night, retire to luxury accommodations, where stellar cuisine ends each day under an ink-dark curtain awash in infinite stars. This is Africa at its purest, a striking abundance of untamed life seldom experienced on foot.

What is a Walking Safari? Guided walks are a highlight of our safaris, getting you out of your safari vehicle and close to the incredible sights, sounds, and smells of Africa. Experience the thrill of strolling along the top of Victoria Falls in Zambia, track elephants with a renowned guide in Botswana and Zimbabwe, or observe giraffe on foot in South Africa.

You’ll learn tracking techniques from our expert, naturalist guides and revel in the tiny details that present themselves when you’re out in nature: flowers in bloom, birds on the wing, and newborn antelope foraging in the tall grass. Depending on the destination, these active explorations may be a major focus of the trip or serve as an occasional supplement to game drives and other vehicle- or boat-based adventures.


Tour Highlights:
  • Thrill to a once-in-a-lifetime safari experience, tracking a fantasia of animals great and small on foot—spotting zebra, giraffe, genets and even millipedes!
  • Come face to face with Africa’s largest elephant population at Chobe National Park.
  • Savor the ideal blend of deluxe comfort and immersion in Africa’s wilds during stays at intimate, award-winning lodges and bush camps that evoke the classic safari.
  • Sip a sundowner under a painted African sky during an evening boat cruise (on the Zambezi River), perhaps accompanied by pods of hippos and elephants at the river’s edge.
Flight + Tour Combo

11 days, 10 nights

FROM $7,398 USD

per person, double occupancy

Tour extensions available
Victoria Falls
1 night $648*
Cape Town
3 nights $1,098*

Tour Only

8 days, 7 nights

FROM $6,198 USD

per person, double occupancy



Reserve Online Contact Us

OR Call to Book 800.234.6900

Your Tour Includes:

  • All meals
  • Local wine and/or beer with dinner
  • Exceptional boutique accommodations
  • Local Guide(s) with you 24/7

Flight + Tour Combo Includes:

  • All tour inclusions
  • International round-trip airfare
  • Pre- and post-tour night accommodations
  • Overseas airport transfers
  • Breakfasts
  • Business-class upgrades available

Itinerary & Accommodations

View the Tour Only Itinerary Open
Download Full Itinerary
Day 1

Join your tour. Arrival in Zambia: Sunset boat cruise

Your guide meets you at the Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport in Livingstone, Zambia. Upon your arrival, you shuttle to the start of your tour.

Arrive at your lodge, a serene sanctuary about eight miles upstream from thundering Victoria Falls. Set off on a boat excursion on the Zambezi River, complete with sundowners, then return for a festive dinner in the open-air restaurant.

Accommodation: Sussi & Chuma Lodge, Victoria Falls

Named after Dr. David Livingstone’s faithful friends Sussi and Chuma, this tranquil lodge is nestled among Jackalberry trees and Phoenix palms on a scenic stretch of the Zambezi in Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park. Recount your day over a cocktail or glass of wine at the elevated bar, or spotting birds while lounging in the shaded deck or even by taking a dip in the infinity pool. The twelve treehouses are linked by wooden walkways; each room offers air conditioning and a private deck. The lodge supports the education, conservation, and health clinic of the nearby village of Nakatindi.

Day 2

Victoria Falls: rainforest walk and village visit and game drive

2 hours of walking, easy. 1-2 hours optional walk, easy

Trace footpaths through the woodland and rainforest around roaring Victoria Falls. After a bush picnic, visit nearby Nakatindi village for an introduction to daily life and cap off your day with a game drive in Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park.

Accommodation: Sussi & Chuma Lodge, Victoria Falls

Named after Dr. David Livingstone’s faithful friends Sussi and Chuma, this tranquil lodge is nestled among Jackalberry trees and Phoenix palms on a scenic stretch of the Zambezi in Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park. Recount your day over a cocktail or glass of wine at the elevated bar, or spotting birds while lounging in the shaded deck or even by taking a dip in the infinity pool. The twelve treehouses are linked by wooden walkways; each room offers air conditioning and a private deck. The lodge supports the education, conservation, and health clinic of the nearby village of Nakatindi.

Day 3

Morning bushwalk and transfer to Chobe Chilwero Lodge: afternoon game drive

Discover the bush and ecosystem from a completely different perspective on an early morning walk with a guide and ranger tracking plains game and smaller creatures alike. Continue on to Chobe National Park, home to Africa’s largest herd of elephants. After settling in to your luxurious lodge, set out in search of them on an afternoon game drive. Return to the lodge for a gourmet dinner.

Accommodation: Chobe Chilwero Lodge, Chobe

Perched on a hillside, your lodge lives up to its name: Chilwero means “place of high view” in Setswana, the local language. With only 15 cottages, Chilwero has an intimate, village feel that blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings. During your stay, indulge in the services of the only full spa on the Botswana safari circuit, enjoy a soak in the split-level swimming pool, and savor exquisitely prepared gourmet meals. The lodge is proud to support the nearby Dipetsana Women’s Bike Shop, a vital source of income and local transportation.

Day 4

Chobe National Park: sunrise boat excursion and afternoon game drive

After a hearty breakfast, embark on a scenic boat cruise on the Chobe River, marveling as life unfolds along its vibrant banks.  After lunch at the lodge, relax for the afternoon before setting out on an early evening game drive in search of buffalo, hippo, antelope, and the park’s majestic elephant.

Accommodation: Chobe Chilwero Lodge, Chobe

Perched on a hillside, your lodge lives up to its name: Chilwero means “place of high view” in Setswana, the local language. With only 15 cottages, Chilwero has an intimate, village feel that blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings. During your stay, indulge in the services of the only full spa on the Botswana safari circuit, enjoy a soak in the split-level swimming pool, and savor exquisitely prepared gourmet meals. The lodge is proud to support the nearby Dipetsana Women’s Bike Shop, a vital source of income and local transportation.

Day 5

Chobe Chilwero Lodge to Stanley’s Camp: Okavango Delta: afternoon game drive

2 hours of walking, easy

Fly into the remote heart of the Okavango Delta, one of Africa’s most breathtaking natural wonders. After lunch at your luxurious camp, thrill to a game drive with your experienced guide, searching for lion, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, and even wild dog among other spectacular wildlife.

Accommodation: Sanctuary Stanley’s Camp, Okavango Delta

Stanley’s Camp, named for famed explorer Henry Stanley, shares this vast patch of the Okavango Delta with only one other camp, ensuring a more exclusive and uncrowded safari experience. Its ten luxury tents and main lodge, crafted with sustainability in mind, recently underwent a makeover (complete in April 2018). A solar farm generates 80% of electricity. Inspired by the traditional craftsmanship of Botswana—from the furniture and fittings to the woven basket lights—they exude a light and breezy atmosphere. Stanley’s Camp supports the Living with Elephants Foundation, which works to re-introduce orphans to the wild.

Day 6

Okavango Delta: morning bush walk and evening game drive

2 hours of walking, easy

During a morning walking safari watch for the innumerable large and small birds that thrive in this oasis. You may also see zebra and giraffe grazing the floodplains. Return to the bush later for a rare game drive after dark.

Accommodation: Sanctuary Stanley’s Camp, Okavango Delta

Stanley’s Camp, named for famed explorer Henry Stanley, shares this vast patch of the Okavango Delta with only one other camp, ensuring a more exclusive and uncrowded safari experience. Its ten luxury tents and main lodge, crafted with sustainability in mind, recently underwent a makeover (complete in April 2018). A solar farm generates 80% of electricity. Inspired by the traditional craftsmanship of Botswana—from the furniture and fittings to the woven basket lights—they exude a light and breezy atmosphere. Stanley’s Camp supports the Living with Elephants Foundation, which works to re-introduce orphans to the wild.

Day 7

Okavango Delta: morning mokoro excursion and afternoon bush walk

2 hours of walking, easy

Depending on the season, embark a mokoro (a dug-out canoe) for a thrilling safari by water. You might glide past a waterbuck or elephant water buffalo, while a fish eagle flies above. After lunch and free time, explore once more by foot before a celebratory farewell dinner.

Accommodation: Sanctuary Stanley’s Camp, Okavango Delta

Stanley’s Camp, named for famed explorer Henry Stanley, shares this vast patch of the Okavango Delta with only one other camp, ensuring a more exclusive and uncrowded safari experience. Its ten luxury tents and main lodge, crafted with sustainability in mind, recently underwent a makeover (complete in April 2018). A solar farm generates 80% of electricity. Inspired by the traditional craftsmanship of Botswana—from the furniture and fittings to the woven basket lights—they exude a light and breezy atmosphere. Stanley’s Camp supports the Living with Elephants Foundation, which works to re-introduce orphans to the wild.

Day 8

Your Botswana & Zambia Safari: Victoria Falls to the Okavango Delta tour concludes

Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the Delta one last time on an early morning bush walk or game drive. After a hearty breakfast, you are transferred back to the airfield for your flight to Maun and your onward travels.

View the Flight + Tour Combo Itinerary Close
Download Full Itinerary
Flight

Overnight flight from USA to South Africa

Begin your adventure by departing from a convenient gateway city in the United States or Canada. Spend the first night aloft.

Arrival

Arrival in Johannesburg, South Africa

Upon your arrival at Johannesburg International Airport, South Africa, after retrieving luggage and passing through customs, a representative from the African Rock Hotel holding a sign with your name on it, meets you as you exit the baggage-claim area. Your transfer to the hotel takes approximately 25 minutes. The remainder of the day is at leisure (no meals or activities included). Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to reserve dinner at the hotel’s restaurant which offers a set 3-course menu (not included in the tour price).

Accommodation: African Rock Hotel, Johannesburg

This hotel in a gated community provides a restful first night in Africa, with nine luxurious rooms, a swimming pool, spa, bar, and the wonderful Blue Hippo Restaurant, presided over by master chef Christine Agumba.

Day 1

Join your tour. Arrival in Zambia: Sunset boat cruise

Awakening refreshed, you enjoy breakfast at your hotel before transferring to the Johannesburg airport for your included flight to Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport in Livingstone, Zambia to begin your tour.

Your guide meets you at the Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport in Livingstone, Zambia. Upon your arrival, you shuttle to the start of your tour.

Arrive at your lodge, a serene sanctuary about eight miles upstream from thundering Victoria Falls. Set off on a boat excursion on the Zambezi River, complete with sundowners, then return for a festive dinner in the open-air restaurant.

Accommodation: Sussi & Chuma Lodge, Victoria Falls

Named after Dr. David Livingstone’s faithful friends Sussi and Chuma, this tranquil lodge is nestled among Jackalberry trees and Phoenix palms on a scenic stretch of the Zambezi in Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park. Recount your day over a cocktail or glass of wine at the elevated bar, or spotting birds while lounging in the shaded deck or even by taking a dip in the infinity pool. The twelve treehouses are linked by wooden walkways; each room offers air conditioning and a private deck. The lodge supports the education, conservation, and health clinic of the nearby village of Nakatindi.

Day 2

Victoria Falls: rainforest walk and village visit and game drive

2 hours of walking, easy. 1-2 hours optional walk, easy

Trace footpaths through the woodland and rainforest around roaring Victoria Falls. After a bush picnic, visit nearby Nakatindi village for an introduction to daily life and cap off your day with a game drive in Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park.

Accommodation: Sussi & Chuma Lodge, Victoria Falls

Named after Dr. David Livingstone’s faithful friends Sussi and Chuma, this tranquil lodge is nestled among Jackalberry trees and Phoenix palms on a scenic stretch of the Zambezi in Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park. Recount your day over a cocktail or glass of wine at the elevated bar, or spotting birds while lounging in the shaded deck or even by taking a dip in the infinity pool. The twelve treehouses are linked by wooden walkways; each room offers air conditioning and a private deck. The lodge supports the education, conservation, and health clinic of the nearby village of Nakatindi.

Day 3

Morning bushwalk and transfer to Chobe Chilwero Lodge: afternoon game drive

Discover the bush and ecosystem from a completely different perspective on an early morning walk with a guide and ranger tracking plains game and smaller creatures alike. Continue on to Chobe National Park, home to Africa’s largest herd of elephants. After settling in to your luxurious lodge, set out in search of them on an afternoon game drive. Return to the lodge for a gourmet dinner.

Accommodation: Chobe Chilwero Lodge, Chobe

Perched on a hillside, your lodge lives up to its name: Chilwero means “place of high view” in Setswana, the local language. With only 15 cottages, Chilwero has an intimate, village feel that blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings. During your stay, indulge in the services of the only full spa on the Botswana safari circuit, enjoy a soak in the split-level swimming pool, and savor exquisitely prepared gourmet meals. The lodge is proud to support the nearby Dipetsana Women’s Bike Shop, a vital source of income and local transportation.

Day 4

Chobe National Park: sunrise boat excursion and afternoon game drive

After a hearty breakfast, embark on a scenic boat cruise on the Chobe River, marveling as life unfolds along its vibrant banks.  After lunch at the lodge, relax for the afternoon before setting out on an early evening game drive in search of buffalo, hippo, antelope, and the park’s majestic elephant.

Accommodation: Chobe Chilwero Lodge, Chobe

Perched on a hillside, your lodge lives up to its name: Chilwero means “place of high view” in Setswana, the local language. With only 15 cottages, Chilwero has an intimate, village feel that blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings. During your stay, indulge in the services of the only full spa on the Botswana safari circuit, enjoy a soak in the split-level swimming pool, and savor exquisitely prepared gourmet meals. The lodge is proud to support the nearby Dipetsana Women’s Bike Shop, a vital source of income and local transportation.

Day 5

Chobe Chilwero Lodge to Stanley’s Camp: Okavango Delta: afternoon game drive

2 hours of walking, easy

Fly into the remote heart of the Okavango Delta, one of Africa’s most breathtaking natural wonders. After lunch at your luxurious camp, thrill to a game drive with your experienced guide, searching for lion, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, and even wild dog among other spectacular wildlife.

Accommodation: Sanctuary Stanley’s Camp, Okavango Delta

Stanley’s Camp, named for famed explorer Henry Stanley, shares this vast patch of the Okavango Delta with only one other camp, ensuring a more exclusive and uncrowded safari experience. Its ten luxury tents and main lodge, crafted with sustainability in mind, recently underwent a makeover (complete in April 2018). A solar farm generates 80% of electricity. Inspired by the traditional craftsmanship of Botswana—from the furniture and fittings to the woven basket lights—they exude a light and breezy atmosphere. Stanley’s Camp supports the Living with Elephants Foundation, which works to re-introduce orphans to the wild.

Day 6

Okavango Delta: morning bush walk and evening game drive

2 hours of walking, easy

During a morning walking safari watch for the innumerable large and small birds that thrive in this oasis. You may also see zebra and giraffe grazing the floodplains. Return to the bush later for a rare game drive after dark.

Accommodation: Sanctuary Stanley’s Camp, Okavango Delta

Stanley’s Camp, named for famed explorer Henry Stanley, shares this vast patch of the Okavango Delta with only one other camp, ensuring a more exclusive and uncrowded safari experience. Its ten luxury tents and main lodge, crafted with sustainability in mind, recently underwent a makeover (complete in April 2018). A solar farm generates 80% of electricity. Inspired by the traditional craftsmanship of Botswana—from the furniture and fittings to the woven basket lights—they exude a light and breezy atmosphere. Stanley’s Camp supports the Living with Elephants Foundation, which works to re-introduce orphans to the wild.

Day 7

Okavango Delta: morning mokoro excursion and afternoon bush walk

2 hours of walking, easy

Depending on the season, embark a mokoro (a dug-out canoe) for a thrilling safari by water. You might glide past a waterbuck or elephant water buffalo, while a fish eagle flies above. After lunch and free time, explore once more by foot before a celebratory farewell dinner.

Accommodation: Sanctuary Stanley’s Camp, Okavango Delta

Stanley’s Camp, named for famed explorer Henry Stanley, shares this vast patch of the Okavango Delta with only one other camp, ensuring a more exclusive and uncrowded safari experience. Its ten luxury tents and main lodge, crafted with sustainability in mind, recently underwent a makeover (complete in April 2018). A solar farm generates 80% of electricity. Inspired by the traditional craftsmanship of Botswana—from the furniture and fittings to the woven basket lights—they exude a light and breezy atmosphere. Stanley’s Camp supports the Living with Elephants Foundation, which works to re-introduce orphans to the wild.

Day 8

Your Botswana & Zambia Safari: Victoria Falls to the Okavango Delta tour concludes

Please refer to your flight itinerary for your departure flights from Maun.

Add a Tour Extension to Your Flight + Tour Combo
Pre-Tour Extension: Victoria Falls, Zambia

1 night from only $648*

  • One night at the exclusive Sussi & Chuma Lodge on the Zambezi River, 30 minutes from Victoria Falls
  • All meals, local drinks, and house wines (except bottled wines and premium-alcohol drinks) included at the lodge
  • Optional lodge activities, time permitting, such as a game drive, a guided walking safari, canoeing and/or sundowner cruise on the Zambezi River, fishing, tour of Victoria Falls (excluding Victoria Falls Heritage fee)
  • Flight to Victoria Falls (in conjunction with the Flight +Tour Combo)
  • Airport meet-and-greet service
  • Laundry
  • Park fees

For those guests reserving our Flight + Tour Combo, you may wish to further extend your time in Zambia with an additional night near Victoria Falls. Sending up columns of spray visible from miles away, Victoria Falls is one of Earth’s most spectacular natural wonders. On this extension, you can choose between a guided visit to the Zambia or Zimbabwean side of the falls (Heritage Fee not included and visas are required for entry in Zimbabwe) and a number of active and cultural visits from your all-inclusive lodge.

Spend more time taking in the thunderous cascade of Victoria Falls, the world’s largest curtain of water. Your tranquil lodge is just a half-hour drive away, yet distant enough so you can enjoy a peaceful idyll. The Zambezi River provides a dramatic backdrop for your wanderings.

Single Supplement: $248*

*Please note that some hotel city taxes may need to be paid locally.

Post-Tour Extension: Cape Town, South Africa

3 nights from only $1,098*

  • Three nights at the deluxe boutique hotel, More Quarters, just steps away from local eateries, boutique shops, and beaches
  • Three breakfasts
  • Flights to and from Cape Town (in conjunction with the Flight +Tour Combo)
  • Airport meet-and-greet service

For those guests reserving our Flight + Tour Combo, you may wish to further extend your time in Africa with a three-night stay in Cape Town, South Africa.   Spread at the foot of magnificent Table Mountain, Cape Town is equal parts natural beauty and cosmopolitan allure. Spend three nights unfolding its stunning cultural tapestry, embodied in waterfront cafés and compelling museums, and venture farther afield to wine country and scenic Cape Point.

Single Supplement: $448*

*Please note that some hotel city taxes may need to be paid locally.

Tour Extensions Available

Victoria Falls
1 night from only $648*

Cape Town
3 nights from only $1,098*

Learn More

Ready to take the next step?

Reserve Online

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Dates & Prices

Tour Only

Availability 2019 Dates Per person, double occupancy Single Supplement
more info
 Reserve Online
Filling Fast! Nov 1 - Nov 8 $6,198 $298 Reserve Online
Currently Full Nov 9 - Nov 16 $6,198 $298 Join Waitlist

Flight + Tour Combo

Availability 2019 Dates WASHINGTON (DULLES) Change Departure Airport
Flight + Tour Combo
more info
 Single Supplement
more info
 Reserve Online
Filling Fast! Oct 30 - Nov 9 $7,398 $398 Reserve Online
Currently Full Nov 7 - Nov 17 $7,398 $398 Join Waitlist
Additional gateway cities available; please call for details. Standard Terms & Conditions apply when purchasing this trip. Prices include all airline surcharges and Government taxes and fees. Call for details. All prices are subject to change. Departure dates and prices shown may be updated several times daily, and apply to new bookings only. We reserve the right to correct errors. **Private departures are not combinable with Encore milestone savings. The eighth free spot does not include airfare or tour extensions and will be reimbursed as a check 30 days prior to departure. Cancellations that result in a group of fewer than eight may incur additional fees. All reservations are subject to availability. Guests must be 12 years old to participate in bush walks. If bringing children under 12, additional fees will apply.

Guides

Guides

Our guides' experience, dedication, and enthusiasm make them ideal ambassadors for your destination. They chart the course, finesse the details, and speak the language (English, as well as the local language). They also possess a truly rare skill, knowing when to let serendipity and inspiration take the lead.

Botswana Guide Russell Gerber
Russell Gerber

Russell Gerber was born in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa and earned degrees in Zoology, Ichthyology, and Marine Biology at Rhodes University while also developing an intense passion for both the environmental and cultural conservation of Africa. Russell has led both land- and water-based safaris in Botswana as well as in other parts of the world, including South Africa, Mozambique, and Thailand. With past experience managing safari camps, Russell spent years in remote locations where he developed his keen tracking skills. His love of the environment is equaled only by his enjoyment of sharing his extensive knowledge of the natural world with his guests.

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