8 Days Botswana & Zimbabwe Safari 2026 | Chobe, Okavango & Vic Falls Tour

This extraordinary 8-day safari takes you through two of Africa’s most iconic destinations — the legendary waterways and game-rich reserves of Botswana and the thundering grandeur of Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park. From intimate mokoro glides through the Okavango Delta to exhilarating game drives in Chobe, and from the mist-sprayed cliffs of Mosi-oa-Tunya to lion-rich Hwange, this itinerary delivers the full spectrum of Southern Africa’s wildlife and landscapes.

Whether you are a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned bush traveler, this carefully crafted route balances adventure, wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, and moments of sheer natural wonder. Expert guides, handpicked lodges, and carefully sequenced activities ensure an unforgettable journey.

Trip Snapshot
Duration	8 Days / 7 Nights
Countries	Botswana & Zimbabwe
Start / End	Maun, Botswana → Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Best Time	May – October (Dry Season) | Peak: July – September
Group Size	2 – 12 Guests (Private & Group Options Available)
Activity Level	Moderate — suitable for all fitness levels
Accommodation	Safari lodges, tented camps & boutique hotels
Safari Style	Game drives, mokoro safaris, boat cruises, walking safaris

Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Maun — Gateway to the Delta

📍 Maun, Botswana

Your Botswana adventure begins in Maun, the safari capital of Botswana and your gateway to the magnificent Okavango Delta. Upon arrival at Sir Seretse Khama Maun International Airport, you will be met by your safari representative for a warm welcome briefing.

Activities & Highlights

• Airport transfer and lodge check-in
• Afternoon orientation walk around the lodge grounds
• Sunset cruise on the Thamalakane River — watch hippos, crocodiles, and a dazzling array of waterbirds in the golden hour light
• Welcome dinner at your lodge: traditional Setswana cuisine with fellow travellers

Accommodation: Cresta Riley’s Hotel or similar riverside lodge, Maun

Meals Included: Dinner (D)

Travel Notes: International flights into Maun are available from Johannesburg (±2 hrs). Ensure your yellow fever certificate is valid if transiting through affected countries.

Day 2: Into the Okavango Delta — Mokoro Safari

📍 Okavango Delta, Botswana

Today you venture by light aircraft (or road transfer) into the heart of the Okavango Delta, one of the world’s largest inland deltas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Arriving at a traditional poling station, you board a mokoro — a dugout canoe — and begin gliding silently through papyrus-lined channels, lily-covered lagoons, and open floodplains.

The Okavango Delta is a water wilderness unlike any other. The intricate network of channels, islands, and lagoons supports extraordinary biodiversity — elephant, hippo, lechwe, sitatunga, and hundreds of bird species. Your expert poler and guide will share deep ecological knowledge of this unique ecosystem.

Activities & Highlights

• Morning light aircraft flight over the delta (breathtaking aerial views)
• Full-day mokoro safari through channels and lagoons
• Guided walking safari on a secluded island — track animals on foot
• Afternoon birdwatching: African fish eagle, malachite kingfisher, saddle-billed stork
• Sundowner drinks on a papyrus island as the delta turns golden

Accommodation: Okavango Delta Tented Camp — Chiefs Island or Moremi area

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (B/L/D)

Wildlife Highlights: Red lechwe, hippo, crocodile, elephant, African fish eagle, sitatunga

Day 3: Moremi Game Reserve — Big Five Country

📍 Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana

Moremi Game Reserve, occupying the northeastern portion of the Okavango Delta, is widely regarded as one of Africa’s finest wildlife sanctuaries. Today is dedicated to full game drive exploration in an open 4×4 safari vehicle, where your knowledgeable guide reads the bush with extraordinary skill.

Moremi’s diverse habitats — from riverine forests and floodplains to mopane woodlands and dry savannahs — support a remarkable density of animals including all members of the Big Five. Wild dog packs, one of Africa’s most endangered predators, are frequently encountered here.

Activities & Highlights

• Dawn game drive: the golden hour is prime predator activity time
• African wild dog tracking (Moremi has one of Botswana’s healthiest wild dog populations)
• Big Five game viewing: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino
• Afternoon birding walk: Pel’s fishing owl and Bat hawk are iconic Moremi specialties
• Evening campfire storytelling with your guide under a star-filled Kalahari sky

Accommodation: Moremi tented safari camp (full board)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (B/L/D)

Wildlife Highlights: African wild dog, lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, giraffe, zebra

Day 4: Transfer to Chobe National Park — Elephant Capital of Africa

📍 Kasane, Chobe, Botswana

This morning you transfer north from Moremi to Kasane, the gateway town to Chobe National Park — home to the largest concentration of elephants on Earth. With an estimated 120,000+ elephants, Chobe offers wildlife spectacles that are unmatched anywhere on the continent. The Chobe River forms a natural boundary with Namibia and Zimbabwe, drawing wildlife from vast distances.

Activities & Highlights

• Morning game drive in Chobe’s iconic Savuti region (en route)
• Afternoon Chobe River boat cruise — watch enormous elephant herds wade and swim across the river
• Buffalo, zebra, impala, and warthog sightings along the riverbanks
• Exceptional elephant photography from boat level — remarkably close encounters
• Watch hippos, Nile crocodiles, and African skimmers from the water

Accommodation: Elephant Valley Lodge or Chobe Safari Lodge, Kasane

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (B/L/D)

Wildlife Highlights: African elephant (herds of 50–500), buffalo, hippo, crocodile, kudu

Day 5: Full Day in Chobe — Game Drives & Sunset Cruise

📍 Chobe National Park, Botswana

A full day immersed in the wonders of Chobe National Park, alternating between morning and afternoon game drives and a leisurely sunset river cruise. The Chobe ecosystem rewards patient observers with extraordinary predator sightings — lion prides are regularly encountered along the floodplains, and leopard are frequently spotted in the riverine thickets.

The Chobe floodplain in the dry season is a wildlife stage with no equal. As water retreats, animals concentrate along the river’s edge in enormous numbers, and the drama of predator-prey interactions plays out daily. Elephant family groups, some with tiny calves, create touching scenes as they play in the shallows.

Activities & Highlights

• Dawn game drive: lions and hyenas are active just after first light
• Late morning boat cruise along the Chobe River — elephant swimming and drinking
• Picnic lunch on the riverbank or back at the lodge
• Afternoon game drive: giraffe, sable antelope, roan antelope in the Serondela area
• Sunset cruise with sundowner drinks on the water
• Optional night game drive (spotlight) for nocturnal species: leopard, honey badger, civets

Accommodation: Elephant Valley Lodge or Chobe Safari Lodge, Kasane

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (B/L/D)

Wildlife Highlights: Lion pride, leopard, elephant, hippo, puku, roan antelope, sable antelope

Day 6: Cross into Zimbabwe — Victoria Falls

📍 Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

After breakfast, you cross the border from Kasane into Zimbabwe (approximately 1 hour), arriving in Victoria Falls town — one of Africa’s most iconic destinations. Known locally as “Mosi-oa-Tunya” (The Smoke That Thunders), Victoria Falls is the world’s largest waterfall by combined width and height, stretching 1,708 metres across and plunging up to 108 metres into the Batoka Gorge. The thunderous roar and the perpetual mist-rainbow are simply awe-inspiring.

The afternoon and evening are yours to explore this extraordinary natural wonder and the charming colonial-era Victoria Falls town, packed with curio shops, restaurants, and adventure activity booking offices.

Activities & Highlights

• Guided walking tour of Victoria Falls — witness all 6 viewing points along the rainforest trail
• Soak in the natural spray — waterproof bags and ponchos provided (May–August)
• Photograph the famous “Bridge” and the Eastern Cataract
• Sunset cruise on the Zambezi River — hippo and crocodile sightings, spectacular sundowner setting
• Dinner in town at the iconic Boma Restaurant with traditional dance and Zimbabwean cuisine

Accommodation: Victoria Falls Hotel, Elephant Camp, or Ilala Lodge (luxury options available)

Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner (B/D)

Border Crossing: KAZA Univisa ($50 USD) covers both Zambia and Zimbabwe — purchase at the border

Day 7: Hwange National Park — Lion Country

📍 Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

Today you transfer to Zimbabwe’s largest game reserve — Hwange National Park, covering over 14,651 km² of Kalahari sandveld and mopane woodland. Hwange is legendary for its extraordinary lion populations (some of Africa’s most studied lion prides roam here), massive elephant herds, and remarkable variety of species. Over 100 mammal species and 400 bird species have been recorded within the park.

Unlike Botswana’s water-based safari experience, Hwange offers a classic dry-land safari in a remote, wild environment with very few visitors. The atmosphere is raw, pristine, and deeply authentic.

Activities & Highlights

• Morning transfer to Hwange (approximately 2 hours from Victoria Falls)
• Afternoon game drive to the famous Nyamandhlovu Pan — elephant gatherings of 200–400 at the waterhole
• Guided walking safari with armed ranger: track lion spoor and read the land
• Hwange’s famous lion prides — Cecil’s legacy continues through his descendants here
• Rare species: wild dog, brown hyena, pangolin (nocturnal), sable antelope, gemsbok
• Evening campfire under skies undimmed by light pollution

Accommodation: The Hide Safari Camp, Somalisa Camp, or Linkwasha Camp, Hwange

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (B/L/D)

Wildlife Highlights: Lion, elephant, wild dog, sable, roan, gemsbok, brown hyena, 400+ bird species

Day 8: Final Morning Safari & Departure

📍 Victoria Falls / Departure

Your final morning in the African bush begins with a pre-dawn wake-up call — the magic hour when the bush comes alive. A last game drive captures the essence of everything you have experienced: the raw beauty of the African wilderness, the intimate moments with extraordinary wildlife, and the deep satisfaction of days lived at nature’s pace.

After breakfast and check-out, you transfer back to Victoria Falls for any last-minute souvenir shopping, a swim in the famous “Devil’s Pool” (seasonal, October–May), or simply a quiet moment at the falls before your onward flight departs.

Activities & Highlights

• Pre-dawn final game drive at sunrise — a memorable send-off
• Breakfast back at camp followed by lodge check-out
• Optional: helicopter flight over Victoria Falls (“Flight of Angels”) before departure
• Optional: bungee jump from the Victoria Falls Bridge (111 metres — a true bucket-list experience)
• Transfer to Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) for international connections

Accommodation: N/A — Departure Day

Meals Included: Breakfast (B)

Departure Note: Victoria Falls Airport has direct connections to Johannesburg (±1 hr), Nairobi, and Addis Ababa

What’s Included & Excluded

✅ Included

• 7 nights accommodation at lodges and tented camps as specified (or similar quality)
• All meals as indicated (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
• All game drives, mokoro safaris, boat cruises, and guided walks as per the itinerary
• Internal transfers between destinations (road and light aircraft as specified)
• Professional English-speaking safari guide throughout
• Park entry fees for Moremi, Chobe, and Hwange National Parks
• Guided tour of Victoria Falls (with entry fee)
• Sunset Zambezi River cruise
• Bottled mineral water and soft drinks during activities
• Airport transfers on arrival and departure
• Emergency evacuation insurance (medical)

❌ Excluded

• International flights to Maun and from Victoria Falls
• KAZA Univisa fees ($50 USD per person — purchased at border)
• Travel insurance (strongly recommended — comprehensive cover advised)
• Optional activities: helicopter flight, bungee jumping, white-water rafting, zip line
• Personal items: tips/gratuities, laundry, telephone calls, alcoholic beverages
• Camera equipment and photography permits in certain areas
• Vaccinations and medical requirements (yellow fever, malaria prophylaxis)

Best Time to Visit

Botswana and Zimbabwe offer rewarding wildlife experiences throughout the year, but timing your visit to coincide with the dry season delivers the finest game viewing conditions.

Seasonal Safari Guide
April – June	Emerald season begins to dry: lush landscapes, newborn animals, excellent birding. Water levels still high — good mokoro season.
July – September	PEAK DRY SEASON: Animals concentrate at water sources. Best Big Five viewing. Clear skies, cool nights. Book well in advance.
October – November	Hottest months, water very scarce — wildlife concentrations at maximum. Baby elephants, impala lambs. Great for photography.
December – March	Green season: lush vegetation, lower prices, fewer tourists. Excellent birding (migratory birds present). Some roads may be impassable.

Accommodation Overview

All lodges and camps on this itinerary are selected for their exceptional location, quality of guiding, sustainability practices, and authentic bush atmosphere. Options range from luxury lodges to intimate tented camps, all offering en-suite facilities, hot showers, and impeccable service.

Accommodation Details
Night 1	Cresta Riley’s Hotel — Maun, Botswana (riverside setting, pool, restaurant)
Nights 2–3	Okavango Delta Tented Camp — remote, intimate, solar-powered camp in the delta
Nights 4–5	Elephant Valley Lodge — Kasane, overlooking Chobe River with wildlife on the doorstep
Night 6	Ilala Lodge or Victoria Falls Hotel — colonial charm, pool, central location
Night 7	Linkwasha / The Hide / Somalisa Camp — Hwange, remote luxury tented camp

Safari Wildlife Checklist

This itinerary offers exceptional opportunities to observe a wide spectrum of African wildlife. Use this checklist to track your sightings throughout the journey:

Wildlife You May Encounter
Big Five	Lion ✦ Leopard ✦ African Elephant ✦ Cape Buffalo ✦ White/Black Rhino
Large Mammals	Giraffe ✦ Zebra ✦ Hippopotamus ✦ Nile Crocodile ✦ Warthog ✦ Wildebeest
Predators	African Wild Dog ✦ Cheetah ✦ Spotted Hyena ✦ Brown Hyena ✦ Honey Badger
Antelope Species	Sable ✦ Roan ✦ Eland ✦ Kudu ✦ Impala ✦ Red Lechwe ✦ Sitatunga ✦ Gemsbok
Primates	Chacma Baboon ✦ Vervet Monkey ✦ Bushbaby (nocturnal)
Birds (400+ spp)	African Fish Eagle ✦ Pel’s Fishing Owl ✦ Saddle-billed Stork ✦ Bateleur Eagle
Waterbirds	Malachite Kingfisher ✦ African Skimmer ✦ Goliath Heron ✦ Hammerkop
Rare Sightings	Pangolin (nocturnal) ✦ Aardvark ✦ Serval ✦ African Wildcat

Practical Safari Information

Visa & Entry Requirements

• Botswana: Visa-free for most nationalities (up to 90 days). Check your country’s specific requirements.
• Zimbabwe: KAZA Univisa (USD $50) — valid for Zimbabwe and Zambia; purchase at Victoria Falls border or Harare/Victoria Falls airport.
• Carry multiple passport-sized photos and USD cash for border fees.
• Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity beyond your travel dates.

Health & Safety

• Malaria: Both Botswana and Zimbabwe are malaria-risk zones. Consult your travel health clinic 6–8 weeks before departure for prophylaxis advice.
• Yellow Fever: Required if arriving from an endemic country. Carry your yellow fever certificate.
• Vaccinations: Hepatitis A & B, typhoid, and tetanus boosters recommended.
• Drinking water: Drink only bottled or purified water. Avoid ice in local restaurants.
• Sun protection: The African sun is intense. High-SPF sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat, and UV sunglasses are essential.

What to Pack

• Clothing: Neutral/earth-toned clothing (khaki, olive, beige). Avoid bright colours and blue/navy (attracts tsetse flies).
• Layering: Cool mornings on game drives require warm fleece or light jacket (May–September).
• Footwear: Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes or boots. Sandals for lodge evenings.
• Camera: DSLR or mirrorless camera with 300–500mm telephoto lens ideal. Extra memory cards and batteries.
• Binoculars: 8×42 or 10×42 recommended for bird and game spotting.
• Medications: Personal prescription medications, antihistamines, rehydration sachets.
• Documents: Passport, travel insurance policy, vaccination certificate, booking confirmations.

Currency & Payments

• Botswana: Botswana Pula (BWP). USD widely accepted in lodges and major establishments.
• Zimbabwe: US Dollar (USD) is the primary currency. Carry small denominations for tips and markets.
• ATMs: Available in Maun, Kasane, and Victoria Falls. Inform your bank of travel dates before departing.
• Tips: Tipping is customary and greatly appreciated. Budget USD $10–20 per person per day for your guide and USD $5–10 per day for lodge staff.

Connectivity & Communication

• Mobile coverage: Maun, Kasane, and Victoria Falls have reliable 3G/4G coverage. Remote camps may have limited or no connectivity.
• Wi-Fi: Available at most lodges, though speeds vary. Embrace the digital detox in remote camps!
• Emergency contacts: Save the lodge emergency numbers and your country’s embassy contact before arriving.

Why Choose This Safari?

The Botswana & Zimbabwe combination offers something truly rare in modern safari travel: the ability to experience two dramatically different African ecosystems — the water wilderness of the Okavango Delta and the classic savannah of Hwange — bookended by the natural wonder of Victoria Falls. Each destination complements the other perfectly, building a complete portrait of Southern Africa’s extraordinary wildlife heritage.

This is not merely a holiday. It is an immersion into some of the last great wild spaces on Earth, guided by experts who have dedicated their lives to understanding and protecting these ecosystems. The memories forged here — a wild dog pack at dawn, elephants crossing the Chobe at sunset, the roar of Victoria Falls on a moonlit night — will remain with you for a lifetime.

“In wilderness is the preservation of the world.” — Henry David Thoreau

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