This 9-day tour through northern Botswana and Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls offers an authentic blend of wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, and cultural touches. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect — and it looks truly memorable.
What we love about this experience? First, the opportunity to witness Big Five animals in their natural habitat, especially with reintroduced rhinos in Moremi. Second, the mix of wild camping and lodges provides both adventure and comfort. Third, the tour’s fully guided nature—with knowledgeable guides like Daniel and others—ensures you get the most out of every game drive, boat cruise, and walk.
The one consideration? The itinerary is quite full, so if you’re seeking total relaxation or a slower pace, this might feel busy. But if you’re an adventure lover eager to see diverse landscapes, this trip is a fantastic fit. It suits travelers who want a well-organized but authentic safari experience with strong wildlife focus, great scenery, and a touch of thrill from bush camping.
Key Points
- Wildlife Encounters: Experience the Big Five and other animals in their natural environment with expert guides.
- Diverse Habitats: Traverse the delta, floodplains, savannah, and riverfront, capturing the variety of Botswana’s landscapes.
- Accommodation Mix: Enjoy the excitement of wild camping alongside comfortable lodges, offering a balance of adventure and rest.
- All-Inclusive Value: Meals, park fees, and transport are included, removing the hassle of extra costs.
- Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides like Daniel, who are praised for their expertise, make the journey educational and engaging.
- Customizable Itinerary: Flexibility for personalized touches, especially with optional activities like Victoria Falls tours.
A Closer Look at the 9-Day Itinerary
Looking for more options in Maun? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Day 1: Arrival in Maun
The trip kicks off with a warm welcome at Maun Airport, where your guides will transfer you to your accommodation. This initial day is mainly for unwinding after your journey—getting ready for the adventure ahead. It’s a good chance to meet your guide and fellow travelers, setting the stage for a smooth week.
Day 2: Exploring the Okavango Delta by Motorboat
The highlight here is a full-day excursion into the Okavango Delta. Starting at 7:30 am, you’re picked up in Maun, heading into this UNESCO World Heritage Site by motorboat. Expect to glide through channels teeming with birdlife, crocodiles, and maybe even a hippo or two. The guides—like Daniel—are praised for their knowledge, sharing insights about the flora, fauna, and local tribes.
A picnic lunch on an island allows for a relaxed break, while optional nature walks add a chance to get closer to the landscape. Reviewers highlight the “beauty of the delta and wildlife,” saying the experience is unforgettable. Expect around 7 hours of adventure, with all park fees included.
Day 3 & 4: Wildlife in Moremi Game Reserve
Moving into Moremi, one of Botswana’s most famous wildlife parks, you’ll spend two days with early morning and late afternoon game drives. The terrain is varied—floodplains, lagoons, forests—and the reintroduction of both Black and White Rhinos makes it a Big Five hotspot.
Traveling in open-sided 4×4 vehicles, you’ll see elephants, lions, buffalo, and possibly elusive predators. Reviewers mention the “delightful and inspiring” routes and the thrill of spotting wildlife during the early drives, when predators are active. A bush shower and campfire stories add to the authentic bush experience.
Day 5 & 6: Transition to Savute
The move to Savute introduces a different landscape—more open savanna with iconic elephants and predators. The camp setup is a team effort, and the transition is part of the adventure, with game drives en route. Expect scenic vistas and wildlife sightings along the way, with stops for picnics.
Early mornings in Savute are prime times to see predators on hunts, and reviewers mention the special feeling of being “during night deep inside the bush,” around campfires. The combination of varied scenery and wildlife makes each drive exciting, especially with guides like Daniel sharing their expertise.
Day 7: From Savute to Chobe Riverfront
This day features a drive to the Chobe Riverfront, famed for its large herds of elephants and crocodiles. On arrival, you’ll check into a lodge for a refreshing shower and some downtime before a 3-hour boat safari on the Zambezi River.
The boat ride offers a different perspective—seeing elephants bathing and hippos lounging—highlighted by glowing sunset views. Reviewers say it’s a “fantastic way to end the day,” with many noting the abundance of wildlife along the river.
Day 8: Victoria Falls and Zimbabwean Rainforest
A short transfer takes you to Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls, where a guided walk through the rainforest reveals the awe-inspiring waterfall. The volume and power of the falls often leave visitors speechless.
You can also opt for additional activities, such as sunset cruises on the Zambezi. The tour’s flexible nature means you can tailor your experience, but the rainforest walk and river cruise are the main highlights, highly praised for their breathtaking views.
Day 9: Departure
After a hearty breakfast, you’ll be transferred back to Victoria Falls Airport. The tour wraps up, leaving travelers with lasting memories of Botswana’s wilderness and the iconic falls.
Why This Tour Delivers Value
The $3,047.70 per person price covers all park fees, meals, transport, and accommodations—whether wild camping or lodges. This all-in approach reduces unforeseen costs, making it easier to enjoy the experience without worrying about extra charges. Reviewers like Giuia and Nicola appreciate how the tour was customized to their honeymoon needs, indicating flexibility and personal attention.
The inclusion of experienced guides is a huge plus. Guests often mention guides like Daniel, praising their ability to spot wildlife others might miss and their knowledge of local ecosystems and tribes. Their insights turn a wildlife drive into a storytelling session, enriching the experience beyond just seeing animals.
The mix of wild camping and lodges adds a sense of adventure while offering comfort. Camping under the stars, with the sounds of the bush all around, is a highlight for many—and the luxury lodges provide a welcome retreat after busy days. Reviewers describe the accommodations as “delightful” and well-organized.
The fully guided nature of this trip means you don’t need to worry about logistics—your guides handle campsite setup, park entries, and meals. All activities are scheduled to maximize wildlife sightings, especially during early mornings and late afternoons when animals are most active.
The Authentic Experience and Special Touches
What sets this tour apart is its authentic focus. Reviewers consistently mention the passion of guides and staff, who go out of their way to ensure safe, respectful wildlife encounters. The campfire stories and the opportunity to witness animals during night drives create a sense of being part of the landscape, not just an observer.
Many travelers appreciate the flexibility—the itinerary can be somewhat personalized, especially with optional activities at Victoria Falls. This adaptability enhances the overall value, ensuring the trip meets individual interests.
What Travelers Should Keep in Mind
While the tour offers a comprehensive experience, it is quite packed. Expect early mornings, long days, and some vehicle time. The focus on wildlife and scenery means you’ll be mostly outdoors, so packing appropriate gear—layers, sun protection, and a sense of adventure—is essential. Also, the tour operates with a small group maximum of nine people, which adds to the intimacy but requires early booking, often 9 days in advance.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This safari is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see the Big Five and explore different habitats in Botswana. It appeals to those who are comfortable with some camping but also want the option of lodge stays. It’s ideal for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and culturally curious travelers who enjoy guided tours with knowledgeable hosts.
If you’re after a balanced mix of excitement, comfort, and authentic encounters, this tour ticks all the boxes. And if you’re celebrating a special occasion like a honeymoon, the flexibility and personal touches make it extra memorable.
FAQ
- Is transportation included?
Yes, all transport—including airport pickups and game drives—is included, making logistics seamless.
- What type of accommodation will I stay in?
You will experience a mix of wild camping and lodge accommodations, depending on the day’s schedule and location.
- Are meals included?
All meals are covered, with picnic lunches during game drives and campfire dinners, providing a true bush experience.
- Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is described as fully customizable, especially at Victoria Falls where additional activities can be arranged.
- What is the maximum group size?
The tour is designed for a small group of up to 9 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
- Is this tour suitable for children or families?
The data doesn’t specify, but given the nature of the activities, it’s more suitable for adults or older teens comfortable with outdoor adventures.
- What’s the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 9 days in advance, so early planning is recommended to secure your spot.
- What should I pack?
Bring lightweight clothing for daytime, warmer layers for early mornings and evenings, sun protection, and a camera for wildlife photography.
In The Sum Up
This 9-day Botswana safari offers an authentic and well-rounded adventure into some of Africa’s most treasured landscapes. It combines the excitement of game drives with the intimacy of bush camping, all guided by passionate experts who know how to spot wildlife and tell their stories. The inclusion of Victoria Falls adds a spectacular finale, making this a truly comprehensive experience.
It’s an excellent choice for travelers looking for a balance of adventure, comfort, and cultural richness. The focus on wildlife, varied habitats, and flexible options means you’ll come away with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for Botswana’s natural beauty.
If you’re ready for a wildlife-focused journey that blends exploration with authentic local experiences, this tour offers tremendous value. It’s best suited for those who want a guided, immersive safari with a touch of luxury and adventure. Just remember to book early—these popular departures fill quickly!
Ready for your own Botswana adventure? This tour might just be the perfect start to a lifetime of travel stories.