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Southern Africa Odyssey: South Africa, Botswana & Zimbabwe


  • Amboseli National Park - Lumle holidays
  • South Africa
  • Zimbabwe - Lumle holidays

Southern Africa Odyssey: South Africa, Botswana & Zimbabwe

 South Africa

16 days from $8031 pp with flights

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the vibrant cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and iconic wildlife of South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe.

At a Glance

  • Explore Cape Town and Table Mountain.
  • Safari in Moremi and Mababe.
  • Ride a mokoro in the Okavango Delta.
  • See the mighty Victoria Falls.
  • Spot elephants, lions, and hippos.
  • Stay in scenic lodges and hotels.
Print this trip

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the vibrant cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and iconic wildlife of South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. Your adventure begins in the cosmopolitan city of Cape Town, nestled beneath the majestic Table Mountain. Explore its pristine beaches, bustling waterfront, and the lush Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Optional excursions to the Cape Peninsula and Robben Island offer a deeper connection to the region’s history and natural beauty.

From Cape Town, journey to the heart of the African wilderness in Botswana. Discover the tranquil waterways of the Okavango Delta aboard a traditional mokoro canoe and embark on thrilling game drives in the Moremi Game Reserve and Mababe Private Reserve. Encounter diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, and the elusive African wild dog, while staying in eco-friendly camps surrounded by unspoiled nature.

The adventure culminates in Victoria Falls, where the thunderous cascade of water offers a truly awe-inspiring spectacle. Optional activities, such as the Sunset Zambezi Cruise, provide a perfect conclusion. This expertly designed itinerary blends cultural exploration, wilderness safaris, and world-renowned landmarks, creating a once-in-a-lifetime experience in Southern Africa.

The short itinerary

Day 1 : JOURNEY FROM THE NEW YORK TO SOUTH AFRICA
Day 2 : WELCOME TO CAPE TOWN: ARRIVAL IN THE MOTHER CITY
Day 3 : DISCOVER CITY HIGHLIGHTS & TABLE MOUNTAIN OR ENJOY A LEISURELY DAY IN CAPE TOWN
Day 4 : EXPLORE CAPE PENINSULA OR ROBBEN ISLAND, OR RELAX WITH A FREE DAY IN CAPE TOWN
Day 5 : FLIGHT FROM CAPE TOWN TO THE SAFARI GATEWAY OF MAUN
Day 6 : SCENIC FLIGHT FROM MAUN TO THE HEART OF THE OKAVANGO DELTA
Day 7 : UNFORGETTABLE SAFARI EXPERIENCE: GAME DRIVE IN THE MOREMI GAME RESERVE
Day 8 : EXCITING WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS: GAME DRIVE IN THE MOREMI GAME RESERVE
Day 9 : JOURNEY FROM MOREMI TO MABABE PRIVATE RESERVE WITH A SCENIC MOKORO CANOE RIDE
Day 10 : DISCOVER MABABE PRIVATE RESERVE – THRILLING MORNING & AFTERNOON GAME DRIVES
Day 11 : EXPLORING THE HIDDEN TREASURES OF MABABE RESERVE
Day 12 : LIGHT AIRCRAFT FLIGHT TO KASANE & CHOBE RIVER LODGE
Day 13 : OPTIONAL CHOBE WILDLIFE ADVENTURE: GAME DRIVE & BOAT CRUISE
Day 14 : TRANSFER TO VICTORIA FALLS WITH AN OPTIONAL SUNSET ZAMBEZI CRUISE
Day 15 : EXPLORE VICTORIA FALLS – GUIDED TOUR AVAILABLE
Day 16 : DEPARTURE FOR THE NEW YORK

Day 1 : JOURNEY FROM THE NEW YORK TO SOUTH AFRICA

Fly overnight from the NEW YORK to Cape Town. Sitting on a peninsula below the imposing Table Mountain, Cape Town brings together the cultures, cuisines, and landscapes of South Africa into one amazing city. From the pristine coastlines and verdant nature reserves to the traditional fishing communities and cosmopolitan centre, there is plenty to explore.

Meals included: Meal included on the flight.

Day 2 : WELCOME TO CAPE TOWN: ARRIVAL IN THE MOTHER CITY

After arriving in Cape Town, you are met at the airport and taken to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to get to know the city. Perhaps enjoy a leisurely afternoon browsing the shops and restaurants on the waterfront or relax on Clifton Beach. There is also Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, home to an impressive collection of indigenous plants, including fynbos heather and proteas (the national flower), scattered amongst pleasant pathways and secluded spots. Lion’s Head is Table Mountain’s smaller brother and forms part of the dramatic backdrop to the city. Upon walking to the top of the distinctive shaped mountain slope resembling a crouching lion, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the city.

Meals included: Meal included on the flight.

Day 3 : DISCOVER CITY HIGHLIGHTS & TABLE MOUNTAIN OR ENJOY A LEISURELY DAY IN CAPE TOWN

After a morning arrival in Cape Town, you are met at the airport and taken to your hotel. The rest of the afternoon is free to get to know the city. Perhaps enjoy a leisurely afternoon browsing the shops and restaurants on the waterfront or relax on Clifton Beach. There is also Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, home to an impressive collection of indigenous plants including fynbos heather and proteas (the national flower), scattered amongst pleasant pathways and secluded spots. Lion’s Head is Table Mountain’s smaller brother and forms part of the dramatic backdrop to the city. Upon walking to the top of the distinctive shaped mountain slope resembling a crouching lion, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the city. See the best of this fascinating city on our optional half-day City & Table Mountain excursion (optional extra at your own cost), which lets you discover the spirit of the Mother City, experience her vibrant cultures and history, and enjoy botanical scenery. Highlights include a cable car ride up Table Mountain and visits to the Malay Quarter, Green Market Square, the Company Gardens, Houses of Parliament, City Hall, Castle, and Slave Lodge.

Meals included: Breakfast at the hotel.

Day 4 : EXPLORE CAPE PENINSULA OR ROBBEN ISLAND, OR RELAX WITH A FREE DAY IN CAPE TOWN

Spend a further day taking in the delights of Cape Town, or venture out to see the highlights and appreciate the surrounding natural beauty on our optional full-day Cape Peninsula excursion (optional extra at your own cost). You’ll travel along the Atlantic seaboard with its gorgeous white beaches and rugged mountains to Cape Point. Along the way, you visit Seal Island, Chapman’s Peak & Drive, Cape Point National Park, and Boulders Beach, one of the only places in the world where you can get close to African penguins. Alternatively, the Robben Island excursion involves a boat trip across Table Bay to visit the infamous Maximum-Security Prison where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, and Murray’s Bay Harbour attractions.

Meals included: Breakfast at the hotel. Lunch is included on the Cape Peninsula excursion.

Day 5 : FLIGHT FROM CAPE TOWN TO THE SAFARI GATEWAY OF MAUN

Fly to Maun, the safari capital of Botswana. It lies at the southern edge of the Okavango Delta and is mainly used as a gateway to the delta. Transfer from the airport to your lodge and then have the rest of the afternoon at leisure. Situated on the banks of the Thamalakane River, around 19 kilometres from Maun, the lodge is an excellent introduction to the African bush, thanks to its tranquil location and the opportunity to watch birdlife and hippos from the terrace.

Meals included: Breakfast at the hotel.

Day 6 : SCENIC FLIGHT FROM MAUN TO THE HEART OF THE OKAVANGO DELTA

Spend the morning at leisure, then you are transferred to Maun Airport in the early afternoon for your 30-minute light aircraft flight to the airstrip in the Moremi Game Reserve. As you fly over the Okavango Delta, look out for large breeding herds of elephants which can sometimes be spotted in the scrub, as well as buffalo and antelope on the open plains, and hippos in the waterways. Your safari guide and 4x4 vehicle will be at the airstrip to transfer you to the campsite. If time allows, go out for a short late afternoon game drive.

Meals included: Breakfast at the hotel, dinner at your campsite.

Day 7 : UNFORGETTABLE SAFARI EXPERIENCE: GAME DRIVE IN THE MOREMI GAME RESERVE

Today you will get your first full day of game viewing in the Moremi Game Reserve, located in the central part of the Okavango Delta. You start your game drives very early as the best wildlife viewing opportunities are in the morning. After a coffee and light breakfast around the fire before sunrise, head out into the bush in an open-sided vehicle with your guide and the rest of your group, keeping your eyes peeled for some of Botswana’s most iconic species including elephants, cheetahs, lions, wild dogs, antelope, and over 500 bird species. After a few hours, stop for a tea break before heading back to camp for an early lunch. Have some time to relax around the camp, read a book, take a bucket shower, and have a siesta before another game drive in the late afternoon. Thanks to wildlife protection and lack of boundary fencing, the game here roams freely and is relatively undisturbed compared to other reserves in Africa. In the evening, enjoy drinks around the fire before dinner.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Day 8 : EXCITING WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS: GAME DRIVE IN THE MOREMI GAME RESERVE

Another early morning has you up before sunrise, setting off for your morning game drive in the hopes of spotting more game. Moremi is among the best game reserves in Africa for seeing the endangered African wild dog, and breeding herds of elephants move between the mopane forests and the fresh water of the Okavango. After a break for lunch and a siesta at the camp, enjoy an afternoon game drive to enjoy the scenery and more game, including the red lechwe which is one of the more unusual antelope species found here. There is prolific birdlife in the swampy areas and open waters, including cranes, rails, crakes, storks, egrets, herons, and skimmers.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Day 9 : JOURNEY FROM MOREMI TO MABABE PRIVATE RESERVE WITH A SCENIC MOKORO CANOE RIDE

Begin the day with an early breakfast before sunrise, then take a slow drive through the Moremi Game Reserve north-east towards the Khwai and Mababe areas. In the calmer backwaters of the Khwai channels, board a traditional mokoro dugout canoe. On this excursion, you are guided through the river by an expert guide, with the chance to spot spectacular birds and occasionally hippos, crocodiles, and elephants. Then continue on a game drive through the Khwai Concession to the Mababe Private Reserve, passing the magnificent Dombo hippo pools, stopping for a picnic lunch. Camp is set up on the shores of the Khwai River, and you may have the chance to go for a night game drive to look for wildlife with spotlights, giving you an opportunity to experience some of the nocturnal animals that are rarely encountered during the day.

Meals included: Breakfast, packed lunch, and dinner.

Day 10 : DISCOVER MABABE PRIVATE RESERVE – THRILLING MORNING & AFTERNOON GAME DRIVES

Begin your day with a sunrise game drive through the Mababe Private Reserve, a pristine wilderness with diverse habitats ranging from lush woodlands to open savannahs. Spot breeding herds of elephants, lions, and rare antelope species such as sable and roan. Break for a hearty lunch back at camp, followed by an optional siesta or a quiet moment by the riverside. In the afternoon, embark on another game drive, following the winding path of the Khwai River, where predators like cheetahs and African wildcats are often seen hunting. The evening is yours to relax under the starlit sky, with the sounds of the African bush as your backdrop.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the campsite.

Day 11 : EXPLORING THE HIDDEN TREASURES OF MABABE RESERVE

Another day in the Mababe Reserve offers opportunities to uncover more of its incredible biodiversity. Choose between thrilling morning and afternoon game drives or an optional walking safari, where you’ll explore the bush on foot with an experienced guide (activity dependent on conditions). Mababe is also a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with species like the Kori bustard, rosy-throated longclaw, and martial eagle frequently spotted. As dusk falls, enjoy a final sundowner, reflecting on the serene beauty and extraordinary wildlife encounters of your Botswana safari.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the campsite.

Day 12 : LIGHT AIRCRAFT FLIGHT TO KASANE & CHOBE RIVER LODGE

Bid farewell to Mababe as you take a scenic game drive to the Khwai airstrip, followed by a short light aircraft flight to Kasane, Botswana’s northern gateway. Transfer to your lodge, perfectly situated along the banks of the Chobe River, where the afternoon is yours to relax. Unwind by the pool or enjoy the tranquil views of the river, where elephants and hippos are frequent visitors.

Meals included: Breakfast at the campsite.

Day 13 : OPTIONAL CHOBE WILDLIFE ADVENTURE: GAME DRIVE & BOAT CRUISE

Spend the day exploring Chobe National Park, known for its immense elephant population and thriving wildlife. Join the optional Chobe Wildlife Excursion (optional extra at your own cost), starting with a morning game drive where you may encounter lions, buffalo, leopards, and other iconic species. After returning to the lodge for lunch (not included), set out on a relaxing Chobe River cruise. From the boat, watch herds of elephants bathing, pods of hippos, and crocodiles basking on the riverbanks. The sunset over the Chobe River creates a magical ending to the day.

Meals included: Breakfast at the lodge.

Day 14 : TRANSFER TO VICTORIA FALLS WITH AN OPTIONAL SUNSET ZAMBEZI CRUISE

Depart Botswana and cross the border into Zimbabwe for a short drive to Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. After settling into your hotel, enjoy a free afternoon or join the optional Sunset Zambezi Cruise (optional extra at your own cost). Drift along the mighty Zambezi River, sipping cocktails and watching the golden hues of the setting sun reflect on the water. Along the riverbanks, spot elephants, hippos, and a variety of bird species, creating a tranquil and memorable experience.

Meals included: Breakfast at the lodge.

Day 15 : EXPLORE VICTORIA FALLS – GUIDED TOUR AVAILABLE

Spend the day marveling at the breathtaking Victoria Falls, known locally as “Mosi-oa-Tunya” or “The Smoke That Thunders.” You can explore the falls independently, walking along the trails and witnessing the cascading water from various viewpoints, including the Devil’s Cataract and Danger Point. For a deeper insight, join the optional Victoria Falls Guided Tour (optional extra at your own cost), where you’ll learn about the falls’ history, geology, and local legends. During the high-water season (March to June), prepare to get soaked as the mist and spray envelop the area, adding to the dramatic spectacle.

Meals included: Breakfast at the hotel.

Day 16 : DEPARTURE FOR THE NEW YORK

After breakfast, transfer to Victoria Falls Airport for your return flight to the NEW YORK via Johannesburg. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences of your journey through South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe, from iconic landmarks and incredible wildlife to tranquil moments in the heart of nature.

Meals included: Breakfast at the hotel; meal on the flight.

What's included

  • Roundtrip airfare from NEW YORK, including all taxes and fees.
  • Internal flights between Cape Town, Maun, El Calafate, and Victoria Falls.
  • Accommodation in carefully selected hotels, lodges, and camps throughout South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe.
  • Daily breakfast at all accommodations, with additional meals as specified in the itinerary.
  • Professional English-speaking guides for all tours and safaris.
  • All airport transfers and ground transportation in private, air-conditioned vehicles.
  • Light aircraft flights over the Okavango Delta for unparalleled scenic views.
  • Game drives in open safari vehicles at Moremi Game Reserve and Mababe Private Reserve.
  • Entrance fees to all national parks and reserves mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Guided walking safaris and mokoro canoe rides (seasonal and dependent on conditions).

What's not included

  • Supplements for departures from regional airports.
  • Travel insurance (mandatory for all travelers).
  • Optional excursions and activities (optional extras at your own cost), such as the City & Table Mountain Tour, Cape Peninsula Tour, Sunset Zambezi Cruise, and Victoria Falls Guided Tour.
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary (e.g., lunches on free days and some dinners).
  • Personal expenses, including drinks, laundry, and souvenirs.
  • Visa fees for South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe (if applicable).
  • Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff.
  • Additional baggage fees charged by airlines.
Start Date End Date Price Note AVAILABILITY Booking
Mon, 21 Apr, 25 Tue, 6 May, 25 $8031 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 5 May, 25 Tue, 20 May, 25 $8153 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 2 Jun, 25 Tue, 17 Jun, 25 $8640 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 21 Jul, 25 Tue, 5 Aug, 25 $9248 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 4 Aug, 25 Tue, 19 Aug, 25 $9248 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 8 Sep, 25 Tue, 23 Sep, 25 $8640 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 3 Nov, 25 Tue, 18 Nov, 25 $8153 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 2 Mar, 26 Tue, 17 Mar, 26 $7179 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 6 Apr, 26 Tue, 21 Apr, 26 $8153 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 4 May, 26 Tue, 19 May, 26 $8275 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 1 Jun, 26 Tue, 16 Jun, 26 $8761 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 20 Jul, 26 Tue, 4 Aug, 26 $9370 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 3 Aug, 26 Tue, 18 Aug, 26 $9370 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 7 Sep, 26 Tue, 22 Sep, 26 $8761 GUARANTEED Book Now
Sat, 26 Dec, 26 Sun, 10 Jan, 27 $8275 GUARANTEED Book Now
Mon, 2 Nov, 26 Tue, 17 Nov, 26 $8275 GUARANTEED Book Now
If you wish to travel on any other date than dates above or have any other queries please call our office at 1-888-214-4856 or email to sales@lumle.com

A private departures on any day all around the year can be arranged for this trek/tour, for more details and dates E-mail sales@lumle.com

AVAILABILITY OPTIONS

OPENED: This date is available and open for bookings.
LIMITED: There are very limited number of available places on this departure. Immediate booking.
GUARANTEED: We have reached minimum numbers and this trip is guaranteed to depart.
CLOSED: This date is currently unavailable. Please contact us, if you are interested in travelling on this date.

Your Program Duration = 16 Days
All the Prices are in USD ($) Per Person.

City Hotel Name Details
Cape Town SunSquare Cape Town City Bowl (Included) A modern hotel with a rooftop pool, bar, and excellent views. Located within walking distance of the city’s main attractions and a short drive to the waterfront.
Cape Town V&A Waterfront Hotel (Included) A luxurious property on the fashionable waterfront, offering fine dining, a spa, and picturesque views of the harbour or Table Mountain.
Maun Thamalakane River Lodge (Included) Situated on the banks of the Thamalakane River, this lodge features tranquil gardens, a pool, and characterful stone chalets with verandas overlooking the river.
Okavango Delta Letaka Mobile Tented Camp (Included) A mobile safari camp offering spacious tents, private verandas, and dining under the stars. Experience the wilderness close to nature.
Kasane (Chobe Region) River View Lodge (Included) Located on the Chobe River with beautifully manicured gardens, a pool, and private verandas for each chalet.
Victoria Falls Bayete Guest Lodge (Included) A family-run guest lodge with tropical gardens and a large pool. The perfect retreat after a day exploring the falls.

Superior Hotels (Optional)

  • Batonka Guest Lodge (Victoria Falls) – £195 Supplement (£95 Single Supplement): Offers a peaceful location with elegantly decorated rooms and spacious private patios.
  • Victoria Falls Hotel (Victoria Falls) – £495 Supplement (£495 Single Supplement): An iconic Edwardian-style property with luxury amenities and impeccable service, steeped in history.

If the listed hotels are unavailable, alternate accommodations of a similar standard will be arranged to ensure your comfort.

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