This tour is fully escorted by a dedicated tour leader who will accompany you throughout the tour. If your tour includes multiple countries, you will be met by a new tour leader in each country and any internal flights included will be unescorted.
This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
Experience a superior level of comfort. Our Small Group tours have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. Travel with no more than 26 people, allowing for a more personalised and immersive experience. Please see the Important Information on your selected tour for the exact group size.
✓ Small group tour up to 12 guests only
✓ Thrilling game drives across three countries in some of the continent’s best game parks including the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park in Botswana, Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe, and Etosha National Park in Namibia
✓ Traditional mokoro (canoe) safari on the waters in the famous Okavango Delta and visit to Nata Bird Sanctuary and salt pans in Makgadikgadi Desert in Botswana
✓ Guided tours of Cape Town’s main sights as well as a full day excursion to the incredible Cape Peninsula
✓ Tour of Victoria Falls as well as a sunset cruise experience on the mighty Zambezi River
✓ 23 nights in handpicked 3 & 4 star hotels and lodges all with private ensuite facilities
✓ Breakfast daily, 11 lunches, 15 dinners
✓ Internal flight from Cape Town in South Africa to Windhoek in Namibia
✓ Airport transfers included on the first and last day of your tour
✓ Comfortable, dedicated transport throughout escorted by expert, English-speaking guides
✓ In-depth sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary
✈ Needing international airfares to accompany your Inspiring Vacation? You will be able to access our flight portal after securing your package to add international airfares to your booking.
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Welcome to Cape Town! Upon your arrival at Cape Town International Airport, you will be meet and transferred to your hotel.
Once you've checked in, you will have the rest of the day to relax and explore at your own pace.
Special Information
Arrival airport transfers are included as part of your package. You will be met upon arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel.
If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.
Please note: if you are arriving early and have made your own arrangements prior to your tour commencing, airport transfers will not be included. However, if you are purchasing pre-nights accommodation as part of your Inspiring Vacations package, airport transfers will still be provided to the starting hotel.
After breakfast this morning, between 8am - 8:30am, you will meet your local guide at the hotel and head off on a morning tour on this vibrant city. See all the main sites of Cape Town including the Company Gardens, Greenmarket Square, the SA Museum, and colourful Bo-Kaap Cape-Malay neighbourhood.
The afternoon will be free for you to enjoy at your own leisure. We recommend exploring the V&A Waterfront, a lively area located in the bustling heart of Cape Town's working harbour. It offers a wide array of indoor shopping and entertainment options.
Note: your local guides will only be accompanying you during the included tours. Outside of these included tours you will be unnaccompanied.
Between 8am - 8:30am, you will be collected from your hotel for a full day of exploration as we embark on a captivating journey across the breathtaking Cape Peninsula. Our adventure commences with a visit to the charming coastal town of Hout Bay, nestled along the pristine shores of the Atlantic Ocean. Leaving Hout Bay behind, we continue towards the iconic Cape Point, a place of remarkable natural beauty.
Following lunch (not included) we continue on the second leg of our journey to Boulders Beach where we are greeted by a colony of adorable African penguins before we return to Cape Town late this afternoon where the rest of the evening is at leisure.
Note: your local guides will only be accompanying you during the included tours. Outside of these included tours you will be unnacompanied.
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Cape Town International Airport (CPT), where your included flight to Namibia awaits. Upon landing at Windhoek Airport, you will be greeted by a local representative who will assist you in transferring to your accommodation where the remainder of the afternoon is at leisure.
This evening, meet your guide and fellow travellers who will accompany you throughout the Namibia portion of the itinerary.
Note: you will be unaccompanied on your included flight from Cape Town to Windhoek.
Special Information
Your flight time today will be approximately 2 hours (100km)
Road Conditions: Good
Following breakfast this morning we embark on our journey towards the Namib Naukluft National Park. Renowned as the most ancient desert on Earth, this region boasts the presence of the planet's grandest sand dunes, located in Sossusvlei as well as Sesriem, a narrow gorge formed by the Tsauchab River.
Once we arrive at our destination, we settle in for a comfortable stay lasting two nights. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure before we enjoy dinner at the lodge.
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours (300km)
Road Conditions: Gravel Road - Road conditions will be very poor for part of today's journey
This morning we wake early to embark on a visit to Sossusvlei, home to the world's highest sand dunes. These awe-inspiring dunes, reaching astonishing heights exceeding 300 meters, offer an extraordinary spectacle and serve as a magnificent backdrop for capturing breathtaking photographs. Afterward, we proceed to explore Deadvlei, a nearby white clay pan. Deadvlei, meaning "dead marsh," presents a unique opportunity to stroll amidst the iconic lifeless trees, creating incredible photo moments. Our itinerary also includes a stop at Sesriem Canyon, an ancient gorge formed millions of years ago by the Tsauchab River.
Following our adventures, we return to the lodge in the afternoon where the remainder of the day is at leisure before gathering with your group later for dinner.
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours (250km)
Road Conditions: Gravel Road - Road conditions will be very poor on today's journey
Today, we traverse the picturesque Namib Naukluft National Park as we make our way towards Swakopmund. This desert expanse, known as the Namib-Naukluft Desert, carries an ancient essence that transcends time. Here you can find some of the rarest plant and animal species on the planet, making it a must-visit destination on any Namibian itinerary. Keep watch for sightings of unique wildlife such as oryx, springbok, and Hartmann's Mountain Zebra.
Along the way, we pause in the charming town of Walvis Bay, where you might catch glimpses of various bird species, including the elegant flamingos residing in the lagoon. As the afternoon approaches, we reach the coastal town of Swakopmund. Here, you'll have the remainder of the day to enjoy at leisure.
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours (300km)
Road Conditions: Gravel road - Road conditions will be very poor on today's journey
After breakfast, the day is yours to immerse yourself in the delightful ambiance of this charming German town. Take time to wander the pretty streets and visit the local stores and cafes, stroll along the beach promenades or take a dip in the South Atlantic Ocean if weather permits.
We bid farewell to the Atlantic coastline as we proceed on our adventure towards the renowned jewel of northern Namibia, Etosha National Park. Our lodging for the initial night is conveniently located near the park, nestled on a scenic perch of dolomite rocks that offer breathtaking views of a lush forest adorned with Mopane and white Seringa trees.
This afternoon is free to relax. For those seeking an immersive wildlife experience, optional game drives can be booked directly with the lodge which provides the opportunity to encounter the park's diverse fauna (extra charges apply, bookable while on tour).
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours (500km)
Road Conditions: Good
Today we traverse Etosha National Park from the western plains as we enjoy a full day game drive enroute to our lodge located on the eastern side of the park.
Over the next two days, our primary focus will be immersive game drives, as we eagerly seek out sightings of magnificent creatures such as lions, leopards, elephants, and rhinos. Additionally, we keep a keen eye out for cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and the abundant antelope species that populate the park.
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours (160km)
Road Conditions: Gravel road - Road conditions will be very poor on today's journey
Another full day dedicated to game drives in search of an impressive abundance of wildlife that inhabit this incredible park, including the “Big 5”. Etosha National Park was officially established as a protected area in 1907 and remains a haven for approximately 114 mammal species, 340 bird species, 110 reptile species, 16 amphibian species, and even a surprising inclusion of one fish species.
After a long day on safari, retire to the comfort of your lodge facilities this afternoon before enjoying dinner together.
Special Information
Road Conditions: Gravel Road - Good
Continuing our journey northward from Etosha, we venture towards the town of Rundu. Our first stop in this charming destination is the Mbunza Living Museum, a unique establishment that serves as both a traditional cultural school and a communal business for the local Kavango people. Here, we have the privilege of engaging in a cultural exchange, gaining insights into the traditional practices and way of life of the Kavango community, who sustain themselves through fishing, cattle herding, and farming activities.
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 8 hours (600km)
Road Conditions: Combination of Tar/Gravel road - Good
Today we set off on our journey towards the eastern direction, making our way to the picturesque western Caprivi region.
Continuing our expedition, we arrive at our delightful lodge nestled along the serene banks of the Okavango River. In the late afternoon, we embark on a memorable sunset cruise to Popa Falls. This serene and scenic journey promises breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature's golden hour.
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours (200km)
Road Conditions: Combination of Tar/Gravel - Good
In the morning, we indulge in an exhilarating game drive within the Greater Bwabwata National Park, which encompasses the expansive territory stretching from the Kavango River in the west to the Kwando River in the east, including the Mahangu Game Reserve. This diverse landscape provides an ideal habitat for a remarkable array of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for sightings of majestic elephants, stately roan antelopes, graceful kudus, and formidable buffalo herds. The park is also home to an abundance of birdlife, promising a captivating experience for bird enthusiasts.
In the afternoon, we return to the lodge, where the remainder of the day to enjoy at your leisure.
Special Information
Road Conditions: Gravel - Good
Our journey takes us away from the captivating Caprivi region as we head south towards Maun, a vibrant town considered as the entrance to the remarkable Okavango Delta and the renowned Moremi Game Reserve.
Upon our arrival in Maun, the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure. You have the option to unwind and rejuvenate by the pool at the lodge or alternatively, for those seeking a thrilling experience, optional scenic flights over the Okavango Delta are available to book through the lodge while on tour.
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours (450km)
Road Conditions: Good
Following breakfast, meet your local Botswana guide and fellow travellers joining you for the Botswana and Zimbabwe portion of your tour.
We set off by road to the mokoro station, where we will begin our journey. Journey times may vary by season subject to water levels or the Delta. Nestled in "traditional" canoes known as mokoros, we gently float through the dense vegetation of the Okavango Delta, an experience that unveils a plethora of bird species and captivating wildlife. It's worth noting that unlike other deltas, the Okavango Delta never reaches the coast but instead flows into the vast expanse of the Kalahari Desert.
After your mokoro excursion, we proceed to our accommodation, which finds its idyllic location within the captivating Greater Moremi region. Once settled into the retreat, we have a delicious dinner before embarking on an enthralling night game drive within the private concession. This presents a fantastic opportunity to encounter elusive nocturnal creatures that are more challenging to spot during the daytime.
Note: Accommodation in the Moremi operates on solar power. If you are travelling with a CPAP machine, you must indicate this at the time of booking.
For environmental reasons Mokoro's are made of fibre glass rather than timber.
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours (100km)
Road Conditions: Gravel Road - Good
Today presents us with an incredible opportunity to immerse ourselves in thrilling game drives. We embark on an exploration of the renowned Moremi Game Reserve, traversing the vast landscape in our open 4x4 vehicle. The morning and afternoon game drives allow us to venture deep into the reserve, with hopes of encountering a diverse array of wildlife that frequents this remarkable region.
The Moremi Game Reserve is known for its impressive concentration of mammals, offering a high likelihood of witnessing a variety of species during each game drive. Prepare yourself for a day filled with adventure and the possibility of encountering remarkable wildlife and avian wonders amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Moremi Game Reserve.
Special Information
Road Conditions: Gravel Road - Good
Our journey takes a new direction as we bid farewell to the bush and venture eastward toward the mesmerising Makgadikgadi Pans. These expansive pans were once a thriving river-fed lake, but now they stand as vast, saline plains.
In the afternoon, we head to the Sowa pan where we can visit Nata Bird Sanctuary, with magnificent views of the pan, which is part of the Great Makgadikgadi Pans (please note a visit to the pans is subject to the road conditions and water levels during the dry season will restrict the number of birds in the area).
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours (400km)
Road Conditions: Combination of Tar/Gravel - Good
This morning, our journey takes us northward to Kasane, the gateway to the remarkable Chobe National Park. With its expansive size of 10,566 square kilometres, Chobe is the second largest national park in Botswana. One of its most notable features is the incredible concentration of elephants, making it one of the prime locations on the African continent to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
The afternoon grants us leisure time to indulge in a range of optional activities or simply relax and unwind by the pool, allowing you to tailor your experience according to your preferences. Whether you choose to embark on additional adventures or take a moment to rejuvenate, the choice is yours.
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours (350km)
Road Conditions: Good
Today presents an opportunity to encounter the extraordinary wildlife of Chobe National Park on a captivating morning game drive. As we traverse the park's diverse landscapes, we hold hopes of observing magnificent big game up close and perhaps even encountering one of the formidable predators that roam the area.
In the afternoon, we embark on a scenic cruise along the Chobe River, offering a truly remarkable and immersive encounter with nature. This experience stands as one of the finest ways to witness animals gathering at the riverbanks for a drink, while also providing a beautiful backdrop of the African sunset.
Today marks our border crossing into Zimbabwe as we embark on an exciting journey to Hwange National Park, our destination for the next two nights. Hwange National Park stands as one of the most remarkable wildlife sanctuaries in Africa, offering a haven for a diverse array of magnificent creatures. Within the park's expansive landscapes, vast herds of elephants, buffalo, and zebra roam freely, creating a breathtaking spectacle of wildlife.
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours (200km)
Road Conditions: Gravel - Good
The second day of our stay in Hwange National Park, a full-day game drive is included, offering an immersive exploration of the park's diverse landscapes. This presents an exceptional opportunity to observe wildlife in their natural habitat, creating lasting memories and deepening our connection with the remarkable ecosystem of Hwange National Park.
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure as we delve into the heart of Hwange National Park, immersing ourselves in its abundant wildlife, picturesque landscapes, and the undeniable allure of the African wilderness.
Special Information
Road Conditions: Gravel Road - Good
Continuing our remarkable journey, we set our course northward to the majestic Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. Upon arrival, our knowledgeable guide will accompany us on a tour of this natural wonder, aptly named Mosi oa Tunya by the local Kololo tribe, which translates to "the Smoke that thunders.".
In the afternoon, embark on a sunset cruise along the mighty Zambezi River. Drifting along the tranquil waters, we bask in the warm glow of the setting sun, taking in the breathtaking beauty of the river and its picturesque surroundings. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure.
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours (100km)
Road Conditions: Combination of Tar/Gravel Road - Good
Our safari ends this morning after breakfast. You will be transferred to Victoria Falls Airport in time for your departure flight.
We hope to welcome you again one day on another of our African adventures.
Departure transfers are included as part of your package. You will be collected from your hotel at the appropriate time and transferred to the airport to meet your flight.
If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.
This is a land only package.
This package does not include international airfares. If you would like to add airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub. The flight portal will allow you to search for all available airfares to your destination. The function works like most general flight search engines allowing you to select your preferred airline, book different cabin classes (eg. Business class) and view flight durations and transit times to your destination.
The flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub once the following criteria has been met:
Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.
Some of our packages will include airport transfers in either one or both directions when arriving or departing from your destination. To know if transfers are included please view the ‘inclusions’ section of your selected package. If airport transfers are stated, transfers will be included as advised.
If transfers are not included, we also offer the option to book your airport transfers using our online portal. Access to this portal is available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed. Transfers are readily available and do not need to be booked until your final hotel list has been confirmed. Once you have made a transfer booking, please refer to your confirmation email for all transfer details including a local contact number for the transfer company.
If you book pre and/or post-tour accommodation on your own arrangement, and the tour includes transfers, note that these will be forfeited. The transfers are only provided in line with the tour dates and pre and/or post-tour accommodation purchased through Inspiring Vacations when available.
It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return. Visas may be required for your destination. For further visa information, click here.
Travelling in Africa
Travelling by road in Africa can include some long travel days. Road quality can vary from comfortable sealed roads to rough & bumpy dirt roads. Distances covered can be in excess of 300 km (180 miles) per day or more than 6 hours journey time, subject to the road conditions.
Luggage
Due to limited storage capacity of your safari vehicle, we ask that luggage is kept to a manageable amount in a small soft bag – 15kg (33 pounds) max. Hard suitcases are not suitable. It is also recommended to bring a day pack for use throughout the day.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorised as a”4”
Active Tour: A very good level of fitness and mobility is required for you to enjoy all aspects of the itinerary, as this is considered a fast-paced tour. While there is some free time scheduled either in the morning or afternoon, there are many full days of sightseeing with minimal rest and some early starts. You will be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. Tipping is not compulsory on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you feel that your guide and driver have done an impeccable job, you can choose to give a gratuity, but this is entirely your decision.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, but we can’t guarantee your request will be available at all properties.
Single travellers
When booking this tour, solo travellers will be presented with two options:
1 - Single Supplement
By paying an additional $2,150.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your own room throughout the entire trip.
2- Shared Room with a known friend
If travelling together with a friend, you can opt to share your room with him/her and avoid paying a single supplement.
You and your friend can create a unique booking each. Creating a unique booking, gives each of you the flexibility of making different travel arrangements (such adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), make separate payments and have individual access to our Traveller’s Hub
During the purchase path, you will need to provide your friend’s booking ID (if known) or at a minimum, your friend’s full name.
Triple Share
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.
Group Size
4 - 12 people
Children
Children must be 12 years old or above (subject to confirmation) and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Age Limits
Due to the physical nature of this trip and the remote locations visited, there is an age limit of 80 years. Every client over the age of 65 is required to submit a medical certificate or self-declaration of medical fitness before the start of the tour (please request this form from your travel consultant).
Tour Style
To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
All participants must be in good physical condition to fully engage in this journey. For the safety and welfare of yourself and fellow travellers, if you are feeling unwell prior to departure, we advise staying home and contacting us to arrange alternate plans.
Prior to selecting your trip, carefully review the itinerary to assess your ability to comfortably manage our travel style. Please be aware that if, based on evaluation by our leader or local representative, a participant is deemed unable to safely complete the itinerary, we retain the right to exclude them from all or part of the trip without reimbursement.
It is advisable to consult your physician for current medical travel advisories and any required vaccinations before embarking. We recommend carrying a first aid kit and any necessary medications in their original packaging, as they may not be readily available during travel. For those carrying medication, it's essential to check your government's foreign travel guidelines for local restrictions or regulations.
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