Private Safari Zimbabwe & Botswana Adventure – Zambezi to Okavango Delta

An interaction with Mother Earth herself

This journey offers the perfect mixture of natural beauty, cultural immersion and thrilling wildlife encounters that will give you everything you expect form an African exploration and more.

• Experience the stunning beauty of Zimbabwe and Botswana’s landscapes, from Victoria Falls to the Makadikgadi Pans.
• A cultural cocktail with a taste of Zimbabwe’s vibrant soul through guided tours, local townships and exiting markets.
• Get in touch with the African wildlife on game drives, stargaze at Gweta Lodge, camp in the Makadikgadi Pans, and embark on a Mokoro journey in the UNESCO-listed Okavango Delta.

A Deep Dive into Africa’s Heart

This is the perfect adventure for those who wants to see the “real Africa” from its most impressive side. Discover the stunning landscapes of Zimbabwe and Botswana, from the thundering Victoria Falls to the vast Makadikgadi Pans, every day unveiling new breathtaking natural wonders. Experience the vibrant culture and history of Zimbabwe through guided tours and visits to local townships. Dive into African culture with traditional drumbeats, flavors, and locally handcrafted treasures from bustling markets. Thrilling game drives will bring you close to African wildlife and stargazing under one of the world’s darkest skies will leave you breathless. Camping in the Makadikgadi Pans gives you the chance to interact with meerkats and Bushmen in their natural habitat and a Mokoro journey through the UNESCO-listed Okavango Delta takes you on bushwalks guided by local inhabitants, uncovering the secrets of survival in the wild.

What documents do I need to travel to Botswana?
You will need a passport valid for at least six months after your date of entry. Citizens of most countries need a tourist visa to enter Botswana. Application details and forms can be found on the Botswana Embassy website. Visas can also be acquired on arrival. If you are arriving from a country in which Yellow Fever is endemic (such as Kenya), you will require an immunization certificate or health card. Remember to always check the latest COVID-19 travel information. More health information is also available on the embassy website.

Do I need to book in advance?
We recommend you book your trip 3-6 months in advance, especially if you are traveling during the high season from June to the end of October. December to February can also be busy.

How safe are the water and food in Botswana? 
It is best to drink bottled water when traveling through Botswana. Steer clear of ice, raw vegetables, and salads when eating at street restaurants. On the coast, seafood and fish are usually fresh, but make sure everything is well-cooked. To be sure, we recommend a nonactive cholera vaccine such as “Dukoral”.

What currency is used in Botswana?
The official currency used in Botswana is the Pula. USD, Euros, UK pounds, and South African rands are also accepted. Major international credit cards are accepted at most hotels and there are also ATMs available throughout Botswana, dispensing local currency.

Is there malaria in Botswana?
Much of Botswana does not have malaria. However, in the northern regions – including Chobe and the Okavango Delta – it is present. Please consult a travel doctor 1 month before you leave to find out about anti-malarial medications and other preventative measures.

When is the best time to travel to Botswana?
Generally, Botswana experiences 2 distinct seasons, the rainy and the dry season. Even though Botswana is a very large country, the Kalahari Desert covers approximately 80% of it. The rainy season starts around November and lasts until roughly March. This is a great time to see the bush transform into a lush paradise where travelers can spot predators and baby animals – it is important to note that a few camps and lodges in the Okavango Delta close over this period, so remember to check with us before you book. However, many camps do stay open over this period and are much more affordable than in peak season. The dry season alternatively runs from April to October. This is the best time to go game viewing, as the bush thins and animals flock to dry waterholes. The weather starts to heat up around late September and October can become very hot. Hop on over to our website and search for the destination you are planning to visit for a detailed breakdown.

What happens if I get sick or injured on safari?
Any health or medical emergency will be attended to. If your condition requires hospitalization, you will be taken to the nearest hospital immediately. Make sure you have travel and health insurance cover. It’s absolutely necessary. Please ask us if you need advice on insurance.

Do I need insurance/travel protection?
Travel insurance typically provides coverage for a range of unforeseen events that may occur before and during your trip. It’s beneficial if traveling to a foreign country, engaging in high-risk activities, or if you have pre-existing medical conditions that may require medical attention during your trip.

Can I request specific dietary requests?
Yes, in many cases you can request specific dietary requirements when traveling, especially when it comes to flights, hotels, and tour operators. It’s recommended to make those requests in advance preferably at the time of booking to avoid misunderstandings or inconveniences during your travel.

Does the price include any Insurance?
No, the cost does not include insurance. It’s advisable for you to get your personal travel insurance before embarking on an international travel.

Immunizations before your trip to Botswana?
Botswana does not officially require any specific immunizations for entry into the country. However, it’s important to note that routine vaccinations are up-to-date such as measles-mumps-rubella, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella, polio, and influenza. Typhoid and hepatitis A. Yellow fever if you are traveling from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission.

What is the tipping etiquette for safari guides and mountain crews on trips like this?

Tipping is highly appreciated at the end of safari/mountain climb. The size of tips will vary depending on the length and complexity of the trip, the number of staff on the trip and the number of clients on the trip. Generally, groups like to meet together before the end of the trek to discuss how much they would like to tip each staff member based on their individual trek experience. You should prepare an envelope after your trek for your tip money at the Hotel. You can use US dollars, Euros, TZ Shillings or a combination of these. Please ask the Safari/Climbing coordinator at the Hotel for advice.

RECOMMENDED TIP:

Mountain Climbs: $25-50 USD per Day per Climber to be shared between guides, chefs and porters.

Safaris: Driver/Guide: $35-50 USD per Day per Car. If it is a camping safari there will be a tip for the cook $10 USD per Day.

THESE ARE JUST GUIDELINES AND TIPS CAN BE GIVEN TO SAFARI STAFF/MOUNTAIN CREW ACCORDING TO SERVICES PROVIDED.