Stunning aerial view of the Okavango Delta showing blue waterways, palm-dotted islands and golden floodplains

Guided 4x4 Self-Drive Tour

Botswana: The Ultimate Bush Safari

16 days through the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park and Victoria Falls

About This Tour

This 16-day guided 4x4 self-drive expedition offers an immersive journey through the heart of Botswana's wilderness, starting and ending in Johannesburg. A primary highlight of the itinerary is the Chobe National Park experience, where guests enjoy a three-hour sundowner boat cruise on the Chobe River to see crocodiles and hippos, followed by an optional day trip to the majestic Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.

The adventure begins with a drive to the Tuli Block to camp along the Limpopo River, offering immediate elephant sightings. The route then leads through Francistown to Nxai Pan National Park, part of the Makgadikgadi Pans, where travellers visit the 'Magnificent 7' baobab trees and observe predators at local waterholes.

Progressing into the Okavango Delta region, the tour stops in Maun for optional scenic flights before heading into the Moremi Game Reserve and Khwai area for intensive 'Big Five' game drives. After navigating the sandy tracks of Savuti, renowned for its lions and hyenas, the journey concludes with a unique stay at Elephant Sands, where elephants drink just meters from the lodge. The tour finishes with a final riverside stay at Kwa-Nokeng before returning to Johannesburg.

Tour Highlights

Victoria Falls Excursion: During a two-night stay in Kasane, take a day trip across the border into Zimbabwe to witness the spectacular Victoria Falls
Okavango Delta Gateway: After a stop in Maun, take an optional one-hour scenic flight for a panoramic view of the Delta's unique ecosystem
Moremi Game Reserve: Engage in extensive game drives through popular 'Big Five' territory, including the Third Bridge, Xaxanaka, and Khwai areas
Nxai Pan National Park: Visit the 'Magnificent 7' natural monument - seven enormous baobab trees - and spot elephants, giraffes, and lions at local waterholes
Elephant Sands: A unique highlight - stay at a lodge where elephants drink from a waterhole located only a few meters away from the guest areas
Savuti Wilderness: Navigate sandy tracks to reach Savuti Camp, a famous region known for its dense populations of lions, hyenas, and elephants
Chobe River Experiences: Enjoy luxury safari tents at Mwandi View and a three-hour sundowner boat cruise to observe crocodiles and hippos from the water
The Tuli Block: Enter Botswana via the Platjan Border Post and spend two nights camping under Leadwood and Nyala Berry trees along the Limpopo River

BOTSWANA THE ULTIMATE BUSH SAFARI TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Botswana is one of our favourite destinations. It is a land of contrasts – few people – lots of animals; the dry Kalahari Desert with numerous waterways in the Okavango Delta – right in the centre of the country. The Okavango River runs into the desert and just soaks away into the Kalahari Desert - third world country with first class experiences. This programme will give you the experience of a lifetime.....

Day 1 | Saturday, 11 July: Arrival in Johannesburg

You will arrive at Oliver Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg - you will stay in the Sunrock Guesthouse in Johannesburg - great place close to the airport. You can settle this accommodation on arrival. Sunrock Shuttle will collect you at the Airport. I will meet you at the Guesthouse. The next morning after breakfast, you will leave by fully-equipped, rented 4x4 off-road vehicles - directly for the Tuli Block in Botswana - it will be more or less 6 hours' drive to the border post. Arrangements for the collection of the rented 4x4 vehicles will be done and we will fit that into the programme. The Tuli Block wilderness is situated in the South-Eastern corner of Botswana. We will enter Botswana at the Platjan Border Post, crossing the Limpopo River. Expect to see your first elephants, that afternoon, just across the border! We will camp close to the Limpopo River for 2 nights at the Limpopo River Lodge shaded by huge Leadwood and Nyala Berry trees. (Breakfast and dinner included) (~580km)

Day 2 | Sunday, 12 July: Tuli Block Exploration

Today you will spend time in the bush - do some game driving - walk down to the Limpopo River bed - and enjoy sundowners, overlooking the river area. Enjoy a nice relaxing evening round a huge campfire. Camp at Limpopo River Lodge. (All meals included)

Day 3 | Monday, 13 July: Francistown Area

From here we will drive to our next stop-over - Woodlands, situated near Francistown. A lovely place with grass-covered gardens and a nice swimming pool. Stay in basic campsite-chalets. (Breakfast and dinner included - buy lunch along the way) (320km)

4x4 Land Cruiser crossing a rustic wooden log bridge in the African bush

Extreme close-up of a male lion's face showing intense eyes and facial details

Silhouette of an elephant at sunset with the sun visible between its legs and trunk

Day 4 & 5 | Tuesday & Wednesday, 14-15 July: Nxai Pan National Park

After an early breakfast we will head for the Nxai Pan National Park - which forms part of the well-known Makgadikgadi Pans - exciting experience with elephants and other predators passing through our camp... yes - but you will still be safe! The nearby waterhole will provide excellent views of giraffe, elephants, zebra, springbuck, blue wildebeest and if lucky enough... lion! We will camp here for 2 nights. We will visit the enormous 'Magnificent 7' - natural monument of 7 huge baobab trees on the edge of the Kaduakam Pan - here we will have a light lunch, while enjoying the great photo opportunities. (All meals included - except lunch en-route to Nxai Pan) (370km)

Male lion walking through dry Kalahari savanna with full dark mane

Massive ancient baobab tree with thick trunk and sprawling bare branches - one of the Magnificent 7 at Nxai Pan

Day 6 | Thursday, 16 July: Maun, Gateway to the Delta

Now we are on our way to the Okavango Delta area. We will first stop at Maun - the 'Gateway to the Delta' - here we will have lunch at a local restaurant (for own expense). At Maun you can take a one-hour flight over the Delta by airplane - this scenic trip will give you a panoramic view of the Okavango Delta - a great experience. Quo Vadis will make the booking in advance if needed. Tonight you will stay in chalets at Crocodile Camp: Safari and Spa - beautiful setting overlooking the Thamelekane River. (Breakfast included - dinner at the restaurant is for own account)

Aerial view from a small aircraft flying over the Okavango Delta showing the waterways and green islands below

Aerial view of a buffalo herd crossing through shallow water in the Okavango Delta

Day 7, 8 & 9 | Friday to Sunday, 17-19 July: Kaziikini, Moremi & Khwai

Our next destination is just 65km away - Kaziikini Camp - en-route to Moremi Game Reserve - in the heart of the African Bush! We will camp here for one night. The next day we will visit the Moremi Game Reserve - the whole day will be one big game drive, passing Third Bridge and Xaxanaka - popular Big Five territory. We will camp the next 2 nights in the Khwai area, right in the north of the Moremi Park. Good ablution facilities available. (All meals included) (120km)

Day 10 | Monday, 20 July: Savuti, Chobe National Park

After breakfast we will depart on the sandy track to the well-known Chobe National Park - we will stop at the well-known Savuti Camp. Here we will camp for the night. This is lion, hyena and elephant country! (All meals included) (140km)

Day 11 | Tuesday, 21 July: Mwandi View, Chobe River

We will proceed with our day-long game drive - stop from time to time to stretch legs... and head for our destination - Mwandi View situated on the Chobe River flood plains. Beautiful site with great facilities. At night the bush comes alive with nocturnal sounds - elephants and hyena... Stay in luxury safari tents. (All meals included) (185km)

Sunset over the Chobe River with silhouettes of elephants on the bank and safari boats with tourists in the foreground

Stunning sunset boat cruise on the Chobe River with large orange sun setting behind silhouetted trees

Day 12 & 13 | Wednesday & Thursday, 22-23 July: Kasane & Chobe Boat Cruise

The following day we will drive to the northern part of the Chobe National Park - on our way to Kasane. We will spend the entire morning in the Park - also driving on the edge of the mighty Chobe River and into the bush - in search for some spectacular sights of some special animals... We will arrive in Kasane (Chobe Safari Lodge) in time to enjoy lunch next to the swimming pool, overlooking the Chobe River. Then we will check in at the lodge - here we will stay in some luxury for two nights. Prepare yourself for an exciting afternoon. You will enjoy a three-hour, sundowner boat cruise on the mighty Chobe River, where you will get close to crocodiles and hippos, with stunning views of the setting sun, over the mighty Chobe. The next morning (Day 13) you can visit the Victoria Falls in neighbouring Zimbabwe - 90km away. You will leave by bus for a day-trip, from the Lodge at 08:00. You will need a Visa, but that will be issued to you at the Border Post - ~US$30 per person. Back at lodge by 16:30. (Breakfast and dinner included)

Victoria Falls close-up view with massive cascading water and mist rising from the gorge

Chobe River with elephants on the riverbank and safari cruise boats on the water

Day 14 | Friday, 24 July: Elephant Sands

Now we are slowly heading back south - but it is not the end of the highlights. We will stay in chalets at the amazing Elephant Sands Bush Lodge. Here you can enjoy a view of the waterhole, where elephants come and drink, only a couple of meters away from you - right in front of the Lodge! It is a real bush experience. Good facilities. Here we will enjoy dinner in the restaurant - for own expense. (Breakfast and lunch included) (300km)

Herd of elephants drinking at waterhole in front of Elephant Sands lodge chalets with a rainbow in the background

Close-up of elephants drinking at the waterhole with Elephant Sands safari tents in the background

Day 15 | Saturday, 25 July: Kwa-Nokeng, Limpopo River

After breakfast we will be on our way to the border - where we will stay the last evening, in chalets at Kwa-Nokeng - on the banks of the Limpopo River. (Breakfast and lunch included - dinner at the Lodge for own expense) (~480km)

Day 16 | Sunday, 26 July: Return to Johannesburg

An early start will see us off on our last leg of the tour - back to Johannesburg. Then we will say our goodbyes and you will fly back to Europe or stay the last night at Sunrock again. Just take note, that it is at least a 6 hours' drive from Kwa-Nokeng to Johannesburg - so the flight back must be scheduled for late afternoon or early evening. (~450km)

What To Bring

Packing correctly makes all the difference on a 4x4 expedition. Here is our recommended packing list for all Quo Vadis tours.

Southern Africa 4x4 camping typically involves strong sun, dust, bumpy roads, and big day and night temperature swings. This checklist prioritises lightweight, durable, quick-dry items and easy organisation for life on the road. Use this as a guideline — add or omit items to suit your own personal circumstances and needs.

Documents & Money

Keep these accessible at all times.

Valid passport and visa where required (minimum 6 months validity) + paper copies + photos stored offline on your phone
Driver's licence (and International Driving Permit if you will be driving)
Travel and medical insurance details + emergency contacts
Bookings and travel documents saved offline
Local cash in small notes + bank card (remote areas may have limited card facilities)
Document wallet / zip pouch (dust-resistant)
Children under 18: passport, visa where applicable, and international unabridged birth certificate

Clothing

Aim for breathable, quick-dry fabrics in neutral colours — practical for bush travel.

3–5 quick-dry T-shirts / tops
2–3 long-sleeve shirts (sun and insect protection)
2 shorts
1–2 long pants (evenings, bush, ticks)
Warm layer (fleece/hoodie) for cold mornings and nights
Light rain jacket / windbreaker
Underwear and socks (extra pairs for limited laundry)
Sleepwear
Swimwear (optional but useful)
Closed walking shoes / trail runners
Sandals / camp shoes
Light boots (optional for frequent hikes)

Sun, Heat & Dust Protection

High priority for all destinations.

Wide-brim hat or cap with neck protection
Sunglasses
High-SPF sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Lip balm
Buff / scarf (dust protection on windy tracks)
Reusable water bottles — insulated, minimum 2 x 1L
Electrolyte sachets / rehydration salts

Toiletries & Hygiene

Travel-size items in tough, dust-resistant packaging.

Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Biodegradable soap and small shampoo
Microfibre towel
Wet wipes
Hand sanitiser
Tissues and small toilet paper roll (remote stops can be basic)
Nail clippers and small mirror
Shower sandals (recommended for campsites)

Health, First Aid & Personal Medication

Prescription medicines (plus a few extra days) + copy of script
Basic pain / fever relief
Antihistamines (allergies / bites)
Anti-diarrhoeal tablets + oral rehydration salts
Plasters and blister pads
Antiseptic wipes / cream and small bandage
Insect repellent
After-bite / anti-itch cream
Tweezers (thorns / ticks)
Eye drops (dust)
Motion sickness tablets (corrugated roads)
Small personal medical kit pouch (labelled)

Tech & Power

Camping-friendly essentials.

Phone
Charging cables (carry a spare)
Power bank (high capacity)
12V car charger
Headlamp (hands-free in camp) and spare batteries
Camera (optional) and spare SD card / batteries

Comfort & Quality-of-Life Items

Earplugs (wind, frogs, other campers)
Sleeping mask (early sunrise / camp lights)
Small daypack
Light gloves (cold mornings, camp chores)
Compact travel pillow
Dry bags / ziplock bags (dust and organisation)
Small laundry kit (detergent sheets, travel line, pegs)
Refillable spray bottle (cooling mist / quick rinse)

Camping-Specific Personal Items

Sleeping bag suitable for cold nights (or a warmer liner and blanket — see your 4x4 list)
Sleeping bag liner (adds warmth and hygiene — see your 4x4 list)
Personal mug / cup and cutlery if not provided by the tour
Head-to-toe quick-dry camp clothing (kept separate from driving clothes)
Personal snacks (nuts, biltong, energy bars, etc.)
Lighter

Wildlife & Exploration Extras

Nice-to-have items.

Binoculars (a big upgrade for wildlife sightings)
Field guide app or book (birds, animals, trees)
Notebook and pen (route notes, sightings, reflections)

Quick Packing Principles

•Use a soft duffel or soft-sided bag rather than a hard suitcase — easier to pack in a 4x4.
•Pack in modules: clothes cube / toiletries pouch / med kit / tech kit.
•Keep a grab bag in the vehicle: hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, water, camera / binoculars.
•Always carry one warm layer even in hot months — early mornings and desert nights can be cold.
•Pack duplicates of mission-critical items (one spare cable, one spare headlamp battery set, etc.).
•Keep medicines and documents in a dust-proof pouch and away from heat.
•If entering malaria-risk regions, get personalised medical advice before travel. You will be advised in your tour programme if it is required.

Seasonal Packing Guide

Seasons vary by region — use this as a practical rule-of-thumb when packing outside the rainy season.

Category	Summer (hotter, more insects)	Winter (colder nights, drier air)
Clothing	More quick-dry tops; extra light long-sleeves for sun/insects; breathable hat.	Add a warmer fleece; extra long pants; consider a beanie for early mornings.
Sleeping gear	Lighter sleeping bag or sheet + liner; ventilation-friendly sleepwear.	Warmer sleeping bag/liner; thermal base layer; hot-water bottle (optional).
Insect protection	Stronger repellent; consider a light long-sleeve camp shirt for evenings.	Still carry repellent; insects can remain in milder winter areas.
Hydration	Extra electrolytes; 1–2 bottles for day use; aim for regular sipping.	Don't underestimate dehydration — dry air and campfires can dry you out.
Sun & dust	Sunscreen top-ups; sunglasses; buff for dust and wind.	Same essentials; add moisturiser/lip balm as air is drier.
Footwear	Breathable shoes; camp sandals for heat.	Closed shoes for cold mornings; thicker socks.
Camp comfort	Cooling spray bottle; lighter gloves optional.	Gloves recommended; extra warm layer for sitting around the fire.