Botswana Safari: Okavango Delta, Chobe & Victoria Falls
A 16-day Botswana safari exploring the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park and Victoria Falls
Guided 4x4 Self-Drive Tour
Botswana Safari: Okavango Delta, Chobe & Victoria Falls
A 16-day Botswana safari exploring the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park and Victoria Falls
A fully guided Botswana safari tour combining classic wildlife experiences with a unique 4x4 self-drive adventure.
About This Tour
Tour Dates: 11–27 July 2027
This 16-day guided 4x4 self-drive expedition offers an immersive journey through the heart of Botswana's wilderness, delivering a truly unforgettable Botswana safari through some of Africa's most iconic landscapes. Starting and ending in Johannesburg, this Botswana safari tour combines world-class wildlife experiences with the adventure of a guided self-drive tour in Botswana.
A primary highlight of this Okavango Delta safari 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 safari experience in Zimbabwe.
The adventure begins with a drive to the Tuli Block to camp along the Limpopo River, offering immediate elephant sightings on this Botswana wildlife safari. 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, this Okavango Delta tour stops in Maun 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.
This is a classic African safari experience, delivered as a fully supported Botswana 4x4 guided tour combining the freedom of self-drive with the safety and comfort of a small group guided safari tour.
Tour Highlights
- Victoria Falls Excursion: During a two-night stay in Kasane, take a day trip to witness one of Africa's most iconic natural wonders, a highlight of any Botswana safari with Victoria Falls.
- Okavango Delta Gateway: After a stop in Maun, take an optional scenic flight over the Delta, a breathtaking perspective on this unique ecosystem and a key feature of any Okavango Delta safari.
- Moremi Game Reserve: Experience exceptional game viewing in Big Five territory during this Botswana wildlife safari, exploring Third Bridge, Xaxanaka and the Khwai region.
- Nxai Pan National Park: Encounter elephants, giraffes and predators in this remote and beautiful part of your Botswana safari itinerary.
- Elephant Sands: Stay at a unique lodge where elephants gather at a nearby waterhole, an unforgettable highlight of this guided safari Botswana experience.
- Savuti Wilderness: Navigate sandy tracks on this 4x4 safari Botswana through one of Africa's most famous wildlife regions.
- Chobe River Experience: Enjoy a luxury safari stay and a boat cruise, a defining moment of this Chobe National Park safari.
- The Tuli Block: Begin your journey in this remote region, a perfect introduction to a Botswana self drive safari adventure.
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 contrasts with the numerous waterways of the Okavango Delta, right in the centre of the country. The Okavango River runs into the desert and simply soaks away into the Kalahari — a 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 & Tuli Block
You arrive at OR Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg, where the Sunrock Shuttle collects you for your stay at the Sunrock Guesthouse, a great spot close to the airport (accommodation settled on arrival, and I will meet you at the guesthouse). The next morning, after breakfast, you set off in fully equipped, rented 4x4 off-road vehicles heading directly for the Tuli Block in Botswana — roughly a 6-hour drive to the border post (vehicle collection is arranged into the programme). The Tuli Block wilderness lies in Botswana's south-eastern corner; we enter at the Platjan Border Post, crossing the Limpopo River, and can expect your first elephants that very afternoon. We 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) (±580 km)
Day 2 | Sunday, 12 July: Tuli Block Exploration
Today you spend time in the bush — do some game driving, walk down to the Limpopo River bed, and enjoy sundowners overlooking the river. Round it off with a relaxing evening around a huge campfire. Camp at Limpopo River Lodge. (All meals included)
Day 3 | Monday, 13 July: Francistown Area (Woodlands)
From here we drive to our next stopover, 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) (320 km)
Day 4 & 5 | Tuesday & Wednesday, 14-15 July: Nxai Pan National Park
After an early breakfast we head for Nxai Pan National Park, which forms part of the well-known Makgadikgadi Pans — an exciting experience, with elephants and other predators passing through our camp (yes, but you will still be safe!). The nearby waterhole provides excellent views of giraffe, elephant, zebra, springbok, blue wildebeest and, if you are lucky enough, lions. We camp here for 2 nights and visit the enormous 'Magnificent 7', a natural monument of 7 huge baobab trees on the edge of the Kaduakam Pan, where we enjoy a light lunch and great photo opportunities. (All meals included — except lunch en route to Nxai Pan) (370 km)
Day 6 | Thursday, 16 July: Maun, Gateway to the Delta
Now we are on our way to the Okavango Delta area. We first stop in Maun, the 'Gateway to the Delta', for lunch at a local restaurant (at own expense). At Maun you can take a one-hour scenic flight over the Delta by airplane — a panoramic view of the Okavango Delta and a great experience (Quo Vadis will book this in advance if needed). Tonight you stay in chalets at Crocodile Camp: Safari and Spa, a beautiful setting overlooking the Thamalakane River. (Breakfast included — dinner at the restaurant is for own account)
Day 7, 8 & 9 | Friday to Sunday, 17-19 July: Kaziikini, Moremi & Khwai
Our next destination is just 65 km away — Kaziikini Camp, en route to the Moremi Game Reserve, right in the heart of the African bush, where we camp for one night. The following day we visit the Moremi Game Reserve, with the whole day spent on one big game drive, passing Third Bridge and Xaxanaka in popular Big Five territory. We then camp the next 2 nights in the Khwai area, right in the north of the Moremi Park, with good ablution facilities available. (All meals included) (120 km)
Day 10 | Monday, 20 July: Savuti, Chobe National Park
After breakfast we depart on the sandy track to the well-known Chobe National Park, stopping at the famous Savuti Camp where we camp for the night. This is lion, hyena and elephant country! (All meals included) (140 km)
Day 11 | Tuesday, 21 July: Mwandi View, Chobe River
We proceed with a day-long game drive, stopping from time to time to stretch our legs, and head for our destination — Mwandi View, situated on the Chobe River flood plains. A beautiful site with great facilities, where at night the bush comes alive with nocturnal sounds of elephants and hyenas. Stay in luxury safari tents. (All meals included) (185 km)
Day 12 & 13 | Wednesday & Thursday, 22-23 July: Kasane & Chobe Boat Cruise
The following day we drive to the northern part of the Chobe National Park on our way to Kasane, spending the entire morning in the Park, driving along the edge of the mighty Chobe River and into the bush in search of spectacular sightings. We arrive in Kasane (Chobe Safari Lodge) in time for lunch next to the swimming pool overlooking the Chobe River, then check in for a two-night stay in some luxury. That afternoon, prepare for a three-hour sundowner boat cruise on the mighty Chobe River, getting close to crocodiles and hippos with stunning views of the setting sun. The next morning (Day 13) you can visit the Victoria Falls in neighbouring Zimbabwe, 90 km away — leaving by bus for a day-trip from the Lodge at 08:00 (a Visa is required, issued at the Border Post for ~US$30 per person) and back at the lodge by 16:30. (Breakfast and dinner included)
Day 14 | Friday, 24 July: Elephant Sands
Now we are slowly heading back south — but it is not the end of the highlights. We stay in chalets at the amazing Elephant Sands Bush Lodge, where you can enjoy a view of the waterhole as elephants come to drink just a couple of metres away, right in front of the Lodge. It is a real bush experience with good facilities; dinner is in the restaurant at own expense. (Breakfast and lunch included) (300 km)
Day 15 | Saturday, 25 July: Kwa-Nokeng, Limpopo River
After breakfast we are on our way to the border, where we stay the last evening in chalets at Kwa-Nokeng, on the banks of the Limpopo River. (Breakfast and lunch included — dinner at the lodge at own expense) (±480 km)
Day 16 | Sunday, 26 July: Return to Johannesburg
An early start sees us off on the last leg of the tour, back to Johannesburg. Then we say our goodbyes and you fly back to Europe, or stay the last night at Sunrock again. Please note it is at least a 6-hour drive from Kwa-Nokeng to Johannesburg, so your flight back should be scheduled for late afternoon or early evening. (±450 km)
Tour Pricing
Price per person for the full tour.
4x4 vehicle hire is not included, allowing you to choose the vehicle that best suits your travel style and budget. We will guide you in selecting the right option during the booking process.
Euro (EUR)
TOUR PRICE PER ADULT IN EURO
€2,450
TOUR PRICE PER CHILD IN EURO (12–16 years)
€1,470
British Pound (GBP)
TOUR PRICE PER ADULT IN BRITISH POUND
£2,100
TOUR PRICE PER CHILD IN BRITISH POUND (12–16 years)
£1,260
4x4 Vehicle Selection: Your 4x4 vehicle selection depends on your group size. Please review the 'Your 4x4' tab to choose between a Single Cab (1-2 travelers) or Double Cab (3-5 travelers), and include your selection in your booking form.
Payment Conditions
Booking Deposit
A 50% deposit is required to confirm your reservation. This payment is used to immediately secure your dedicated 4x4 vehicle, confirm all pre-booked accommodation, and pre-pay necessary conservation and park entry fees. This deposit is fully refundable for 7 calendar days from the date of booking; thereafter, our standard cancellation policy applies.
Final Balance
The remaining 50% is due no later than 45 days before the tour departure date.
Payment Methods
Indicated on the invoice that will be emailed to you.
What is Included & Excluded
All items below refer to the tour price per person.
Included in Your Tour
- Expert Quo Vadis lead guide vehicle
- Full route planning and logistics
- All national park and reserve entrance fees
- Community conservancy fees
- All accommodation throughout the journey excluding Sunrock guest house
- Daily breakfast and dinner
Not Included in Your Tour
- 4x4 vehicle and rooftop tent hire
- Fuel for your vehicle
- Meals not indicated on the programme and personal snacks
- International and domestic flights
- Travel insurance (required)
- Visa fees and personal travel documentation
- Personal expenses (e.g. laundry, souvenirs, gifts, curios and tips)
- Any other activities not mentioned in the programme
- Entry fees to Victoria Falls and bus fee (~Pula 550 p.p.)
- Sunrock Guesthouse - you pay on arrival
- Flight over the Delta in Maun
- Own liquor/drinks
Vehicle Hire & Selection
Vehicle and rooftop tent hire are excluded from the tour price to allow for customizable travel options. Please visit the 'Your 4x4' tab to review our fleet specifications and pricing. Indicate your preferred vehicle on your booking form, and we will provide a comprehensive, all-inclusive quote for your final approval before you secure your booking.
Your 4x4
Your vehicle is fully equipped and ready for the trail. Below is a summary of what you can expect based on your group size.
We provide properly prepared rental 4x4 vehicles suitable for Southern African travel conditions. Our vehicle suppliers are chosen with great care and only use companies who maintain their vehicles to optimal standards.
The most common vehicles we hire are the Toyota Hilux or the Ford Ranger 4x4 with rooftop tent.
If preferred, we can also provide ground tents which must be requested during the booking process.
Recommended Vehicle Allocation by Group Size
Groups of 1–2 Travelers
- Single-cab 4x4 vehicle
- Single rooftop tent included
Vehicle Pricing: Starting from £95 or €108 per day. Final pricing confirmed upon booking.
Groups of 3–5 Travelers
- Double-cab 4x4 vehicle
- Two rooftop tents included
Vehicle Pricing: Starting from £112 or €128 per day. Final pricing confirmed upon booking.
Overview of Standard Inclusions
When you rent a 4x4 vehicle with us, each unit comes fully equipped for your journey. While this list outlines the general categories and essential items included, a detailed, vehicle-specific inventory will be provided once your specific model has been selected.
- Vehicle Specifications: Each vehicle features a diesel engine, 6-speed automatic transmission, 4x4 capability and a long-range fuel tank.
- General Comfort: Furnished with complete bedding, linen, towels, and cleaning supplies to ensure a comfortable stay.
- Comfort & Tech: Includes air conditioning, power steering, electric windows, and an infotainment system with Bluetooth and USB connectivity.
- Safety & Navigation: Vehicles are equipped with comprehensive airbag systems, ABS with EBD, 24/7 tracking, roadside assistance.
- Off-Grid Power & Utilities: Equipped with a dual battery system, a 1000W inverter, integrated solar charging, and a built-in water tank.
- Camping & Outdoor Living: Features hardshell rooftop tents, an awning, and a dual-compartment fridge/freezer, tables, chairs etc.
- Kitchen & Braai Equipment: Includes a full cutlery set, induction plate, gas stove, etc.
- Recovery & Maintenance: Each vehicle carries essential recovery gear, including a tool kit, air compressor, dual spare wheels, and towing equipment.
Once you have selected your specific vehicle, we will provide you with a comprehensive, itemized list detailing exactly what is included in your assigned unit.
Vehicle upgrades are available upon request. Please note that any price difference will be charged to your account.
You can select your preferred vehicle option directly in the booking form when making your reservation.
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. |
Tour Photos
BOTSWANA THE ULTIMATE BUSH SAFARI TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Tour Summary
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Tour Date: 11-27 July 2027
