WindhoekOkonjima Nature ReserveEtosha National Park Zambezi RegionChobe National ParkVictoria Falls
Our Journey through the Caprivi itinerary highlights the lush, green Zambezi (Caprivi) region in the far North of Namibia. This adventure starts in Windhoek and ends in Victoria Falls. You will be able to explore Okonjima/ AfriCat, Etosha National Park, the meandering Kavango River, Nkasa Rupara National Park, the Chobe River, and Victoria Falls. This Itinerary is the self-drive option, but can be done with a driver/guide.
Itinerary Highlights
Self Drive or Privately Guided
Daily Safaris at National Parks
Explore the Chobe River by Boat
Tour the mighty Victoria Falls
Explore the seldom travelled Zambezi Region
What’s included
Private tours for most included activities
Meet & greet airport service
Luxury or boutique accommodation at your chosen level
Expert guides in each destination
flexibility
This is an example itinerary. It is fully flexible; you can add or detract days and include hotels at your chosen budget. It departs daily.
15
Nights
Price Guide
$7800 – $15,000+ pp
Our quotes are bespoke for your customised trip. The prices displayed are indicative only, read more
Day 1
Fly to Namibia
Day 2
Windhoek
You will be met in the arrivals hall of Windhoek Hosea Kutako Airport by one of our chauffeur drivers, who will transfer you into town. After taking some time to shower, relax (and maybe have a quick nap), your hire car will be delivered to your guest house or hotel around 4 p.m. If you’re landing late in the day, it will be delivered around 8 a.m. the following morning. One of our representatives will meet you simultaneously to offer a thorough briefing on your holiday and review your marked road map, vouchers, and itinerary. Should we not have already done so, we’re also on hand to book a restaurant for tonight.
Day 3-4
Okonjima Nature Reserve
After breakfast, following our detailed road directions and map, you will set off on your self-drive journey to the next destination, Okonjima Lodge and the AfriCat Foundation. During your briefing, we will show you the best places to stop off for lunch or a break and any highlights worth visiting along the way.
The Leopard ‘experience’ will take you out into the Okonjima Nature Reserve and allow you to spend more time with the experienced guides while participating in the research data collection for the long-standing leopard project and newly introduced brown hyena program. Some of the adult leopards are radio collared, which enables the guides to track them with a specialised telemetry device. Although this significantly increases the chance of an excellent sighting, it can never be guaranteed as they are wild, free-roaming predators.
Day 5-7
Etosha National Park
Today, you will drive onwards to the Ongava Reserve bordering Etosha National Park, Namibia’s prime wildlife area. During your time here, you can enjoy inclusive guided game drives into Etosha and on the private Ongava reserve, guided walks, wildlife viewing at the lodge waterhole, and perhaps a visit to the fascinating Ongava research centre to learn more about the important scientific work being done here.
After breakfast, you will depart on your journey through Etosha, perhaps stopping at the central Rest Camp of Halali for lunch and a break. The Park opening and closing times vary depending on sunrise and sunset, and your lodge will be able to advise on the current time. You must complete a form at the Park entrance and pay Park fees at the closest Rest Camp. Allow a whole day for this drive as you will want to make the most of the wildlife viewing.
Day 8
Rundu
You will leave Etosha behind today, driving northwards past roadside villages to the town of Rundu on the Kavango River. There are a handful of beautiful lodges overlooking the river, situated outside the hustle and bustle of Rundu. The drive should take you around 5 hours excluding stops.
Day 9-10
Caprivi
Make your way further east today, driving along what used to be called the Caprivi Strip and is now known as the Zambezi Region of Namibia. Your lodge is a hidden paradise on the banks of the Okavango River. During your two nights here you can relax or take part in optional activities including sunrise or sunset boat cruises, village visits, or guided walks.
Day 11-12
Nkasa Lupala National Park
Today you will continue your meandering journey through the Caprivi, arriving at Nkasa Lupala Lodge. This eco-friendly community joint venture tented lodge is built on the banks of one of the many channels of the Kwando-Linyanti river system. This unique Namibian wetland paradise in the Zambezi Region (Caprivi), is commonly known as Mamili and was recently renamed Nkasa Lupala National Park. Enjoy game drives and boat cruises in this wildlife-rich wetland ecosystem.
Day 13-14
Chobe National Park
You will leave your car in Katima Mulilo this morning and take a guided transfer across the border to Kasane in Botswana. Chobe National Park is located in northern Botswana within a couple of hours drive of the mighty Victoria Falls. It is famous for the large herds of elephant and buffalo which converge along the Chobe Riverfront, pods of hippo and lazy crocodiles. Impressive predators including lion, leopard, hyena and even wild dog are found in this area, in addition to the many antelope species, giraffe and zebra. Birding is fantastic, especially along the riverfront. Enjoy two nights to explore on optional guided game drives and boat cruises.
Day 15-16
Victoria Falls
Take a guided transfer across the border into Zimbabwe today. The mighty Victoria Falls is one of Southern Africa’s most famous landmarks, located at the junction of Botswana, Zambia & Zimbabwe. This vibrant small town has a rich cultural history and offers many activities to enable guests to explore. Guests can visit the Victoria Falls National Park themselves, or take a guided tour. Adventure activities include bungi jumping, gorge swinging, white water rafting, and helicopter scenic flights. Sundown boat cruises on the Zambezi River are a wonderful end to a busy day.
Day 17
Fly home
A note on price
The prices outlined above are a rough guide to give you an idea of costs and enable you to budget for your trip.
Guide prices are generally for private arrangements based on twin share, in well located, good quality accommodation (excluding international flights).
Please note costs are indicative and may vary due to a number of factors such as; travel date, hotel choice, room category, number of people travelling and prevailing exchange rates.
Price Guide $7800 – $15,000+ per person
When to travel
janfebmaraprmayjunjulaugsepoctnovdec
Botswana has a semi-arid climate, which means warm temperatures and sparse rainfall throughout the year. The rainy season runs from November to April, with most of the rain falling during the months of December and January. The summers are hot and dry, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C. The winters are mild and dry, with temperatures dropping to an average of around 20°C.
Botswana in January is characterised by hot and dry conditions. January falls within the summer season in Botswana, and temperatures can reach their peak during this time. The average high temperature ranges from 30 to 35 degrees Celsius, making it important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. Rainfall is minimal, and the skies are mostly clear, allowing for plenty of sunshine. It is advisable to pack lightweight and breathable clothing, along with sunscreen and a hat, to stay comfortable in the heat.
In February, Botswana experiences warm and dry weather, making it an ideal time to visit for travellers seeking outdoor adventures. The average temperature ranges from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius, providing a pleasant climate for exploring the country's diverse landscapes and wildlife. With minimal rainfall, February offers clear skies and ample sunshine, perfect for activities such as game drives in national parks like Chobe and Moremi or exploring the iconic Okavango Delta. It is advisable to pack lightweight and breathable clothing, as well as sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun's rays.
In March, Botswana experiences the transition from the rainy season to the dry season. The weather in Botswana during this time is generally warm, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 26 to 32 degrees Celsius. However, it is important to note that evenings and early mornings can be cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 15 degrees Celsius. Travellers visiting Botswana in March can expect mostly clear skies and a lower chance of rain compared to the previous months. It is a good time to explore the country's national parks and wildlife reserves, as vegetation is still lush and animals are easier to spot. Travellers should pack light and breathable clothing, along with a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings.
In April, Botswana experiences pleasant weather conditions for travel. The country enters its autumn season, bringing milder temperatures and a decrease in rainfall. Daytime temperatures range from around 25 to 30 degrees Celsius, making it a comfortable time to explore the wildlife reserves and national parks. However, it is advisable to pack some warm clothing for the cooler evenings and early mornings. With the drier weather, the landscapes are still lush and green, providing a picturesque backdrop for safari adventures. April is an ideal time to visit Botswana for those seeking a balance between wildlife sightings and comfortable weather conditions.
In May, Botswana experiences the transition from autumn to winter, resulting in pleasant weather conditions for travel. The average temperature in Botswana during this time ranges from 15°C to 25°C making it comfortable for outdoor activities. The days are sunny and warm, while the nights can be cooler. It is advisable to pack both light clothing for the daytime and warmer layers for the evenings. There is minimal rainfall in May, ensuring clear skies and minimal disruptions to travel plans.
In June, Botswana experiences its dry winter season, making it an ideal time for travel. The weather is generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 12 to 26 degrees Celsius. The days are mostly sunny, allowing visitors to explore the country's diverse landscapes and wildlife. However, it's important to note that June is also the start of Botswana's peak tourist season, so popular destinations may be crowded.
The weather in Botswana in July is characterized by cool temperatures and dry conditions. July falls within the winter season in Botswana, and temperatures during this time range from around 5 to 25 degrees Celsius. The days are generally sunny and clear, making it a great time for outdoor activities such as safaris and exploring the country's stunning national parks. However, it is important to note that the nights can be quite cold, so it is advisable to pack warm clothing. Additionally, July is part of the dry season in Botswana, with little to no rainfall expected.
In August, Botswana experiences its dry winter season, making it an ideal time for travel. The weather during this time is generally warm and sunny, with low chances of rainfall. Daytime temperatures can range from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius, while evenings and nights may cool down to around 10 to 15 degrees Celsius. It is recommended to pack lightweight clothing for the daytime, but also bring some warm layers for the cooler evenings. The dry weather also means that wildlife congregates around water sources, making it a great time for game viewing and safari adventures.
In September, Botswana experiences a transition from the dry season to the hot season. The weather during this time is generally warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 35 degrees Celsius. However, it is important to note that September marks the end of the dry winter months, and occasional showers can occur, especially towards the end of the month. These brief rain showers can provide some relief from the heat and bring a refreshing change to the landscape. Travellers visiting Botswana in September should pack light and breathable clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect themselves from the intense sun. It is also advisable to carry a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
In October, Botswana experiences the transition from the dry winter season to the hot summer season. The weather in Botswana during this time is generally warm and dry, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius. It is a great time to visit as the landscape is still relatively green from the previous rainy season, making it an ideal time for wildlife viewing. However, it is important to note that October is also known for occasional thunderstorms, so it is advisable to pack a waterproof jacket and be prepared for sudden showers.
In November, Botswana experiences the transition from spring to summer, bringing with it warm and pleasant weather. The average temperature ranges from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius, making it an ideal time to visit. The days are mostly sunny, with minimal rainfall, allowing travellers to explore the country's stunning landscapes and wildlife. It is recommended to pack light and breathable clothing, along with sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be quite strong.
In December, Botswana experiences warm and dry weather, making it an ideal time to visit for travellers who prefer sunny and pleasant conditions. The average temperature ranges from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius, providing comfortable conditions for exploring the country's diverse landscapes and wildlife reserves. However, it is important to note that December falls within Botswana's summer season, so visitors should be prepared for occasional afternoon thunderstorms. Nonetheless, with its abundance of wildlife, stunning national parks, and vibrant cultural experiences, Botswana in December offers a captivating travel destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Add on’s
There are many add-on holiday options to this itinerary; for example, you could head south to the Okavango Delta in Botswana or Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe.
Add a few nights in Cape Town or Johannesburg and explore these amazing cities before heading to Namibia.
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