The Best of Botswana & Vic Falls – By Walking Stick Safaris

If you’re dreaming of Botswana’s wild landscapes combined with the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, the Best of Botswana Safari by Walking Stick Safaris offers a comprehensive 7-day adventure that balances immersive wildlife encounters with cultural highlights. While we haven’t experienced it ourselves, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a well-crafted, authentic safari that appeals to nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the variety of activities including mokoro rides, game drives, and bush walks promises a well-rounded wildlife experience. Second, its all-inclusive approach—meals, camping gear, and transfers—means you can relax without worrying about hidden costs. Third, the knowledgeable guides, especially Phillimon and Moses, are frequently praised for their expertise and friendly attitude.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that this is a camping safari, which might not suit travelers who prefer luxury lodges or more comfort. Still, if you’re open to sleeping under the stars and embracing the bush, this tour offers excellent value. Ideal for those eager to connect deeply with nature, spot elusive animals, and experience Botswana’s wilderness firsthand, this safari hits many sweet spots.

Key Points

Varied wildlife experiences: From mokoro rides in the Delta to game drives in Khwai, Savute, and Chobe, you’ll encounter a broad range of animals, including rarer species like roan and sable antelope.

Expert guides: Guides like Phillimon and Moses bring significant knowledge, ensuring you learn about wildlife and local ecosystems while feeling well cared for.

Authentic camping experience: Comfortable tents, delicious meals, and campfire stories foster a genuine bush vibe, perfect for adventurous travelers.

Well-structured itinerary: The mix of water-based excursions, game drives, and walking safaris provides a comprehensive view of Botswana’s diverse landscapes.

Excellent value: For $2,450 per person, the tour includes all activities, meals, camping gear, and transfers—offering a full safari experience without hidden costs.

Positive reviews: Travelers consistently highlight the guides’ professionalism, the quality of food, and the stunning views they encountered during the trip.

Day 1: Into the Okavango Delta

Starting in Maun, the journey begins with a boat transfer into the famed Okavango Delta. The highlight here is the mokoro ride, where you glide through reed-fringed waters, getting close to wildlife. Reviewers rave about the guides’ skill; one mentioned how their polers navigated the waters with ease, providing peaceful, scenic rides that felt like being in a wildlife documentary.

Once at the camp on Chiefs Island, expect to unwind amid nature. The setup is straightforward—a camp with tents that are described as comfortable enough for the bush, with dinner served by a professional chef. We loved the relaxed vibe and the chance to sit around the campfire at sunset, a favorite review point.

Day 2: Exploring the Wilderness

A full day of activities begins early with breakfast, followed by a day filled with mokoro trips and game walks. Reviewers like one noted, “the boat ride to experience reed-fringed waters and grasslands makes for wildlife viewing that is simply breathtaking.” Expect to see birds, hippos, and possibly elephants crossing the waterways.

The afternoon features a sunset mokoro cruise, where the tranquil waters and changing light create picture-perfect moments. This blend of water and land exploration offers a rich perspective on the delta’s ecosystem.

Day 3-4: From Delta to Khwai Concession

Moving north, the safari shifts to Khwai Concession. The transition involves a boat ride, then a game drive, giving a taste of Botswana’s varied terrains. The guides’ knowledge shines here, with one reviewer praising Phillimon as “the best guide,” highlighting his ability to spot elusive animals and share insightful stories.

Wildlife sightings on these days are plentiful, with opportunities to see animals like roan and sable antelope, which are less common but highly prized. The area’s grasslands, forests, and floodplains create diverse habitats that attract a wide array of species.

Day 5-6: Savute and Chobe

The journey continues to Savute, renowned for its big predators. Travelers can expect thrilling game drives in search of lions, leopards, and wild dogs. Reviewers mention that the area’s abundance of large predators makes it a highlight.

After Savute, the tour moves to Chobe National Park, known for its large elephant herds. The game drives here are longer, often with a picnic lunch en route. Many reviews emphasize how guides like Moses ensure guests see a good variety of animals, and the park’s rivers are perfect for spotting elephants and crocodiles.

Day 7: Victoria Falls

The safari concludes with a transfer to the iconic Victoria Falls. The final morning involves a wholesome breakfast before saying goodbye to the bush, leaving you with time to explore the falls or relax before departure.

What’s Included and Why It Matters

This tour’s all-inclusive package covers meals, camping gear, and expert guides. When you’re on safari, this means one less thing to worry about, allowing you to focus on enjoying the experience. The professional guides are a highlight, with reviews praising Phillimon’s help planning the trip and Moses’ wildlife knowledge.

The camping setup offers a genuine bush experience—think tents with comfortable mattresses, good food, and the occasional campfire dinner. While some travelers might prefer luxury lodges, this style suits those craving authenticity and adventure.

Transport is mainly via 4×4 safari vehicles and boats, ensuring access to hard-to-reach spots and scenic water crossings. The private group structure means you’re not packed into a large bus, and you get personalized attention from your guides.

The Value Proposition

At $2,450 per person, this safari packs in a lot. You get seven days of diverse activities—mokoro rides, game drives, bush walks—and visits to some of Botswana’s most treasured parks. All meals, camping gear, and transfers are included, which simplifies planning.

Compared to luxury lodges, camping safaris like this tend to offer more intimate wildlife encounters and a deeper sense of connection with the environment. Many reviewers mention the delicious meals, with one praising the chef’s culinary skills, ensuring that even meal times are a treat.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Wide variety of wildlife viewing options
• Knowledgeable and friendly guides
• Authentic camping experience
• Well-planned itinerary with diverse landscapes
• Good value for the price

Cons:

• Camping may not appeal to everyone; no luxury lodges included
• Some long days with early starts and late finishes
• Limited luxury amenities, but this is part of the adventure

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari is perfect for adventure travelers who want to experience Botswana’s wilderness firsthand without spending a fortune on luxury lodges. It’s ideal for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts eager to see elusive species, and those who don’t mind sleeping in tents.

If you’re after a trip with authentic bush experiences, expert guides, and a mix of water and land safaris, this tour offers fantastic value and memorable moments.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
All activities, meals, camping gear, transfers, and park entrance fees are included, making it a hassle-free experience.

How long is each game drive or activity?
Game drives typically last around 4 hours, with some days involving longer or shorter excursions depending on the location and wildlife sightings.

Is the camping comfortable?
The tents are described as comfortable canvas tents, with good quality, and the guide staff is praised for their attentive service. Expect a genuine bush experience with proper bedding.

Are meals provided?
Yes, delicious meals are included, prepared by trained chefs. Reviewers highlight the quality of food, which is a unexpected highlight.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Expect elephants, hippos, crocodiles, lions, leopards, and many bird species. The area also offers chances to see rare antelopes like roan and sable.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is usually booked around 101 days ahead on average, so planning early ensures availability.

Is there any flexibility in the itinerary?
The itinerary is fixed, but the guides are experienced and skilled at maximizing wildlife sightings, so expect some adjustments based on conditions.

Final Thoughts

This 7-day Botswana safari with Walking Stick Safaris offers an engaging mix of water-based adventures, game drives, and bush walks, all set against the backdrop of some of Africa’s most stunning landscapes. The emphasis on authentic camping, expert guides, and diverse habitats makes it a top choice for adventurous travelers seeking a genuine safari experience.

While it’s not a luxury lodge tour, the value and authenticity compensate for this, making it perfect for those eager to get close to wildlife and nature. The positive reviews, especially praising guides like Phillimon and Moses, reinforce that this is a well-run, thoughtful safari that delivers memorable moments and a true taste of Botswana’s wilderness.

For anyone wanting more than just a superficial experience—those who crave wildlife, scenic beauty, and cultural authenticity—this tour ticks many boxes. It’s an all-in-one adventure that promises both excitement and genuine Botswana magic.