DAY 1Johannesburg

Departing from JHB in the early morning, we set off for the Botswana border. On completion of Customs and Immigration formalities we head for Nata Lodge, an oasis-like camp on the edge of the salt pan, where we camp the night. Familiarise yourself with the procedures of the tour over a catered meal (own expense).

DAY 2Nata - Makgadikgadi Pans

After a leisurely breakfast we transfer to the 4x4 vehicle for an initial visit to the nearby Nata Sanctuary to view the spectacular shallow salt pans for their unique bird life and the other species of desert animals they attract. We then return to Nata Lodge for a welcome swim and a bite to eat. Relax for a few hours during the heat of the day before breaking camp and packing up to head down the Maun road out to the Makgadikgadi Pans for a short excursion on to the white crusty surface. Explore the area for Springbok, Gemsbok and other unique species. Camp the night wild and take in the isolation and serenity of the star-studded night.

DAY 3Maun (13-Day fly-in passengers join here)

Leaving the pans, we drive directly to the MAUN CAMP. This camp is situated on the banks of the Boteti River, near Maun, and offers us the opportunity to rid ourselves of the Makgadikgadi dust under a warm shower. In the afternoon we will visit Maun to resupply, and to collect any fly-in passengers before returning to the inn for a traditional "braai" and to camp the night.

DAY 4 - 7Okavango Delta

The Okavango, a massive river spilling its contents into the Kalahari desert sands, creating one of the world's only true inland deltas, and a unique ecosystem that supports a huge variety of animal and plantlife. The sight of a nervous Lechwe pounding across a flooded plain, the Jacana striding delicately amongst the flowering lilies, the Bee Eater diving to prey on an unsuspecting insect, and, of course, the familiar cry of the African Fish Eagle, all combine to create one of nature's masterpieces. We spend three nights camping in a remote part of this wilderness, exploring the area on foot and by mekoro, the traditional aquatic mode of transport. There will also be time to simply appreciate the remoteness and serenity of the area. Late on day 7 we return to the MAUN CAMP to spruce up before enjoying a catered meal at the local restaurant (own expense).

DAY 8 - 12 Moremi / Savuti / Chobe

We pop back into Maun first thing in the morning, and whilst the guide stocks up with supplies for the onward journey, you have the option of an hour's game flight over the delta (own expense).

Now we prepare for the game viewing part of the trip. Perched high on our well-equipped vehicle we head north into the wilderness, passing remote villages and curio sellers along the way. We spend five days in these reserves, starting with Moremi, camping the first night near the well-known 3rd Bridge. Drift off to sleep to the howl of the Hyena or the earthy roar of a Lion, and even the deep grunt of a half-submerged Hippo. We then head on north via Xakanaxa to camp near North Gate. This area is excellent for game viewing and we will conduct afternoon and morning drives along the wetland areas.

Then on up to Savuti where we normally spend two nights. The area offers a multitude of game drive options and a very active campsite. (Keep the fruit well hidden from the roving Elephant, and the meat from the prowling Hyenas.) The vegetation is constantly changing, from open plains, palm trees and marshland, to dense Mopane woodlands and Acacia scrub.

Moving into Chobe, famous for its large herds of Elephant which gather on the flood plains, we spend the morning exploring the banks of the majestic Chobe River. Here we hope to see the Puku, found exclusively on the Chobe flats. We then enjoy a boat trip to our island camp on the Chobe River.

DAY 13 - 14Victoria Falls

After the tedious sandy miles, it is with new excitement that we make for Zimbabwe and the fantastic Victoria Falls, "Mosi o Tunya", "The Smoke That Thunders". After admiring this wonder of the world, various other places can be visited, such as the tribal village, the big tree, the curio market and the croc farm. An aircraft flip over the falls or a boat trip on the Zambezi River are both worthwhile. Please note that whilst in Victoria Falls it is possible to take part in . the one-day Zambezi White Water Rafting adventure or even a suicidal bungi-jump off the 100m high bridge. This is an experience not to be missed, but allowance must be made for the extra expense. We spend two nights at the VICTORIA FALLS INN, thus allowing people the opportunity to explore, either on foot or bicycle, by themselves. The last night at Victoria Falls we all celebrate our experiences with a slap-up meal at a local restaurant (own expense). Relax to the sound of the African night and the distant roar of the falls and drink the farewell toasts to your adventure.

DAY 15Victoria Falls

The people flying out on the 13-day tour will do so here and overlanders will return to Botswana and complete the triangle back to Nata. Camp for the last time and share your experiences with the next tour just arriving (dinner own expense).

DAY 16Nata - Johannesburg

Transfer back to the bus to arrive in JHB in the early evening (all meals own expense).

These trips require a valid passport and for certain nationalities, a visa for Zimbabwe and Botswana. Malaria precautions are necessary. A barrel bag or internal frame backpack is best suited for this trip (suitcases will not be permitted). An extra tog bag or camera bag is allowed. Spending money required will be for the restaurant meals, drinks, visas, tips curios, (airport tax USD 20 [subject to change], and airport transfer, for flying passengers only), and any other optional excursions. All trips are accompanied by two professional guides for optimum efficiency, catering for a maximum of 14 people per vehicle. Remember, help us to help you by participating, by keeping an open mind and remaining flexible. Our price includes all food, coffee, tea, fruit juice at breakfast, transport, professional guides, mekoro hire, accommodation, group equipment, permits and park entrance fees. (We do not use the food kitty system.) Our price does not include restaurant meals where stipulated, visas, tips, curios, optional excursions, alcohol, soft drinks, airport tax, airport transfers and air fares.

Departs every Saturday from Johannesburg and Mondays from Maun.

WE MAY RUN THESE TOURS AS DOUBLE TOURS
SO CLIENTS CAN EXPECT TO TRAVEL IN REVERSE DIRECTION IF REQUIRED.

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Botswana 13 - Day Fly - in Camping Safari
Maun - Victoria Falls

This fly-in tour option joins up with the 16-day overland tour in Maun and leaves it in Victoria Falls, or vice versa, thereby shortening the traveling time. Obviously with the flights one pays a premium and certain sections are forfeited. However, for those who dread the long-distance traveling, or who have limited time, this tour is more convenient.