13 Day WILDERNESS TRAIL: Best Of Northern Botswana -WildCamping + Victoria Falls

If you’re craving an adventure that takes you off the beaten path, this 13-Day Wilderness Trail with Kalahari Breeze Safaris promises an authentic look at Botswana’s spectacular wilderness. From floating through the Okavango Delta in a Mokoro to camping under the stars in the heart of the bush, this tour offers a genuine raw experience—no fences, no boundaries, just pure nature.

What we love most about this trip: the chance to see Big Five animals in their natural habitat, the expertly guided game drives, and the opportunity to camp in some of the most remote spots in Africa. The food, often cooked over campfires, is said to be both plentiful and delicious, adding a comforting touch to days packed with wildlife encounters. A potential consideration? The price point of $5,859 per person, which reflects the all-inclusive, immersive nature of the experience but may be steep for budget travelers.

This tour is best suited for adventurous souls who are comfortable with wild camping, enjoy wildlife photography, and want a comprehensive Botswana safari that covers major highlights. If you’re looking for a balance of comfort and wilderness, detailed planning, and authentic encounters, this could be a perfect match.

• Authentic Wild Camping: Sleep under the stars in the heart of Botswana’s wilderness with experienced guides.
• Expert Guides & Polers: Knowledgeable locals lead you through wildlife areas, sharing insider tips and stories.
• Diverse Ecosystems: From the wetlands of Okavango to the floodplains of Moremi and savannah of Savute, each area has its own special appeal.
• Cultural & Natural Highlights: Includes a walk through Victoria Falls rainforest and boat safaris for a complete experience.
• All-Inclusive Essentials: Most meals, park fees, water, and soft drinks are included, adding convenience and value.
• Limited Group Size: Max of 9 travelers ensures personalized attention and a more intimate adventure.

Day 1: Arrival & Preparation in Maun

Starting in Maun, Botswana’s safari hub, your journey begins with a relaxed evening at your accommodation. Here, you can gear up for the days ahead, and it’s a good chance to meet your team of guides and fellow travelers. The vibe? Calm, anticipatory, with a sense of excitement building for the adventure.

Day 2-4: Okavango Delta – The Waterworld of Botswana

The tour kicks off early with a boat cruise on the Okavango Delta, often regarded as one of the world’s most impressive inland deltas. The journey begins with a speedboat or 4×4 drive to the Buffalo Fence, which acts as a gateway to this lush wilderness.

What makes Okavango special? The mokoro ride—a traditional dug-out canoe—offers a tranquil way to glide through narrow waterways, spotting wildlife like elephants, hippos, and crocodiles from a different perspective. Guides who grew up in the Delta, passionate about their homeland, lead these excursions, sharing stories and insights about the ecosystem.

On Day 3, you’ll spend a full day exploring with guided bushwalks and gameviewing—this is the real deal, walking close to wildlife, hearing the sounds of the bush, and feeling truly immersed. Reviewers mention how the guides’ local knowledge enhances the experience, with one noting, “our polers and guides show you their home with passion and insight.”

The last day in the Delta offers a final mokoro ride and bush walk, providing ample opportunities for wildlife sightings and stunning scenery. Expect early mornings, tranquil water journeys, and delicious bush meals cooked over fire—a true immersion in nature.

Day 5-6: Moremi Wildlife Reserve – The Big Five Playground

Moving into Moremi, known for its diverse habitats, you’ll get game drives across floodplains, lagoons, and forests. The presence of reintroduced Black and White Rhinos makes the reserve a big draw for wildlife enthusiasts.

Early mornings are key here, with guides emphasizing the best time for predator sightings. One reviewer mentioned how the early game drives are when “the predators are on the hunt,” giving guests a chance to see lions stalking or leopards lounging. The evening campfire tales add a layer of magic, sharing stories of the wildlife you’ve observed.

The camp setup is handled by your team, and it’s noted how efficient they are at moving and re-establishing camp—sometimes every three days. The bush showers, a highlight for many, offer refreshing breaks from the dust of the roads.

Day 7-8: Khwai Concession – Remote Wilderness at Its Best

You’ll transfer to the Khwai area, another prime wildlife spot. Here, the game drives intensify; mornings are early and action-packed, trying to catch predators on the hunt. The reviews highlight guides’ professionalism and the thrill of seeing animals up close.

Many guests appreciate the bush picnic lunches and the way guides manage to find wildlife in this vast terrain. Night drives add a chance to glimpse elusive nocturnal species. Staying this close to nature, with only the sounds of the bush at night, amplifies the adventure.

Day 9-10: Savute Reserve – The Iconic Elephant & Predator Territory

Crossing from Khwai, the tour reaches Savute, famous for its sandy landscape and predator activity, especially lions and hyenas. The landscape shifts from lush green to open plains and sandy depressions, offering a different perspective on Botswana’s ecology.

Midday breaks by Mababe Depression are common, giving time to relax and enjoy a picnic while watching animals graze. Early morning and late afternoon game drives maximize wildlife sightings. Many reviews mention how the guide’s expertise allows for close encounters with animals, and the campfire stories become even more vivid with the sounds of the savannah in the background.

Day 11: Chobe National Park & River Safari

You arrive in Kasane, where the scenery changes again—this time to the lush Chobe River area. Here, a boat safari provides a different way to see elephants, crocodiles, and waterbirds. The combination of land and water experiences enriches the safari, and the reviews praise the guides’ ability to spot wildlife from the water.

Day 12-13: Victoria Falls & Departure

The grand finale is a visit to Victoria Falls, where you walk through the rainforest, feeling the spray from the falls and soaking in its sheer power. A sunset cruise on the Zambezi River caps off the experience, with chances to spot hippos and elephants along the shoreline.

On the final day, you’re transferred back to Victoria Falls Airport, ending your adventure—though many reviews say the memories will linger long after.

This tour is packed with diverse landscapes, wildlife sightings, and cultural experiences, all led by guides who genuinely love sharing their knowledge. Staying in remote camps means you’re waking up in the middle of nature, with no fences or borders—just wild animals in their natural habitat.

The inclusion of delicious bush meals and professional guide service adds comfort to this rugged adventure. Many reviews praise the local guides’ expertise, with one mentioning Clifford’s “very knowledgeable” leadership, which makes a big difference when tracking elusive animals.

The mobility of the tour, moving camp every few days, means you’ll see a variety of ecosystems, each with its own charm. The small group size (max nine people) ensures a personalized, intimate experience, perfect for wildlife photography or just soaking in the wilderness.

However, the price of $5,859 per person reflects the comprehensive nature—covering all park fees, most meals, and expert guiding. For those who want a truly immersive safari in Botswana’s most iconic areas, this is a significant investment, but many say it’s worth every penny.

This 13-Day Wilderness Trail offers a genuine, wild, and well-organized Botswana safari experience. It’s particularly suited for travelers who crave authentic bush adventures, are comfortable with camping, and want to see the Big Five in their natural environment.

The combination of expert guides, diverse ecosystems, and authentic camping ensures you’ll come away with memories that last a lifetime. The tour’s focus on creating a balance between adventure, comfort, and genuine wildlife encounters makes it stand out from more commercial safaris.

If you’re looking for an adventure that delivers both stunning scenery and a deep connection with nature, this tour deserves serious consideration. It’s a fantastic way to explore Botswana’s wilderness without sacrificing the richness of experience or the comfort of knowledgeable guides and excellent organization.

What is included in the tour price?
Most meals, park fees in Botswana, water, fruit juice, and sodas are included. The tour also includes guided game drives, hotel pickups, and all camping-related services like water and meals cooked over fire.

Are all activities booked in advance?
Yes, the tour covers activities like mokoro rides, bush walks, and game drives, all included in the package, with most bookings made through the tour provider.

What kind of accommodation is provided?
You’ll stay in designated campsites in the wilderness, with some nights in lodges such as in Kasane for the Chobe River safari. The camping is described as comfortable and well-organized, with bush showers and camp setup handled by the team.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the tour is recommended for most travelers, the camping aspect and early mornings may be less suitable for very young children. It’s best suited for adventurous adults or older kids comfortable in outdoor environments.

How physically demanding is the trip?
The tour involves game drives, bush walks, and camping in remote areas. Some walking is involved, but guides tailor activities based on the group’s ability. Be prepared for early mornings and some rough terrain.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour limits participation to a maximum of 9 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and flexible experience.

Can I customize the itinerary or add activities?
Additional activities like more Victoria Falls excursions can be organized for extra cost. Customizations may depend on availability and timing.

What should I pack for this safari?
Lightweight clothing for daytime, warmer layers for early mornings and evenings, sturdy shoes for walking, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent are recommended.

This safari offers a compelling combination of adventure, authentic wildlife encounters, and stunning scenery—perfect if you’re ready to leave the crowds behind and truly experience Botswana’s wild heart.