HomeTours Self-Drive Tours Botswana Best of Botswana Self-Drive Tour

Best of Botswana Self-Drive Tour

From

Maun

to

Okavango Panhandle

Duration

22 Days

Accommodation

Tour Overview

Embark on a Botswana self-drive safari starting in Maun, the gateway to the Moremi Game Reserve’s wildlife wonders. Explore the Khwai Community Area for cultural encounters, then journey to Savuti’s predator-filled landscapes. Discover Chobe National Park’s elephant herds and the serene beauty of Linyanti Concession. Travel through Kasane, Katima Mulilo, and the Okavango River, experiencing the diverse Okavango Panhandle. End at Guma Lagoon, where mokoro safaris and bird watching await, creating an unforgettable Botswana adventure.

Places You'll See

Highlights

  • Discover iconic species and diverse ecosystems in one of Botswana's premier wildlife areas.
  • Witness the thrill of predator-prey encounters in a captivating wilderness known for its wildlife drama.
  • Explore the peaceful beauty of the Okavango Panhandle with tranquil mokoro rides and exceptional bird watching.

Itinerary

Departure/Return Location:

Maun International Airport

Day 1 - Maun

Your 22-Day camping adventure starts as soon as you touch the ground at Maun Airport where you will be met by our car hire representative, who will hand over your trusty 4x4 rental. You will be staying inside or just outside of Maun.

Day 2 & 3 - Moremi Game Reserve

The road takes you to Moremi Game Reserve which rests on the eastern side of the Okavango Delta and was named after Chief Moremi of the BaTawana tribe.
The Moremi Game Reserve covers much of the eastern side of the Okavango Delta and combines permanent water with drier areas, which create some startling and unexpected contrasts. Some prominent geographical features of the Reserve are Chiefs Island and the Moremi Tongue.

Day 4, 5 & 6 - Khwai

Considered to be one of the best game viewing areas in Botswana, the flood plains of the Khwai River are home to a wide variety of animals and birds. This will be your destination for the next two nights.
You have the day to self-drive your game drives inside the park. The area is well known for its extensive variety of animals and the San Bushmen, who have a growing community nearby.

Day 7, 8 & 9 - Savuti Game Reserve

Savuti is known for its excellent game and offers good sightings throughout the year. Recognised as a prime game viewing area, the Savuti covers almost 1,930 sq. miles (5,000 square km) in the southwest of Chobe National Park. Parts of Savuti are almost desert-like with a scorching sun and hot sand, while at the other extreme are vast grassy plains.

Day 10, 11 & 12 - Linyanti Concessions

Situated in Northern Botswana and bordering the Chobe National Park, the Linyanti Concessions stretch across the Kwando-Linyanti River system. This area is known for its exotic animal and bird species. You will be met with an abundance of wildlife which roams freely between the woodland habitats, ancient floodplains and forests that make up this lush, unfenced reserve.
Nestled in the Chobe National Park, Linyanti is the most beautiful part of the park and is well known for its healthy population of predators, particularly lions.
The big game in this area increases dramatically during the dry season when the area hosts large herds of impala, blue wildebeest, giraffe, and buffalo as well as the world’s highest density of elephant. You have the day to self-drive your game drive.

Day 13, 14 & 15 - Chobe National Park

You will cross the border to Botswana today and make your way to Chobe National Park. This area is rich in birds and wildlife. Chances are good that you will see large herds of elephants, drinking at the river’s edge.
Chobe National Park is Botswana's first national park, and the most biologically diverse. Located in the north of the country, it is Botswana's third largest park, after Central Kalahari Game Reserve and Gemsbok National Park, and has one of the greatest concentrations of game in all of Africa.
Head out and explore Chobe National Park at your leisure, today. Guided game drives are available and need to be pre-booked.

Day 16 & 17 - Caprivi Strip

You will cross the border to Namibia today and make your way to the Caprivi Strip and stay somewhere close to Katima Mulilo, which is situated on the southern banks of the Zambezi River and considered the capital of the Zambezi region.
This riverside town is surrounded by lush vegetation and is home to an array of tropical bird species and cheeky monkeys.
There is plenty to do. Relax on the deck or go for a boat cruise. All anglers are welcome to try their luck catching a Tiger Fish.
The Okavango River is the fourth-largest river system in southern Africa. Starting in Angola, it runs south-eastward into Namibia and forms part of the Angolan/Namibian border. Visitors can soak up the magnificent views of the cascading Popa Falls, a popular tourist attraction, just before the river crosses over into Botswana creating the renowned Okavango Delta. You will be spending two nights at this location.

Day 18 & 19 - Shakawe

Make your way to Shakawe where you will cross the border back to Botswana. Situated in the north-western area of the Okavango Delta, the Panhandle is a stretch of the Okavango River that follows a more-or-less straight course for approximately 70 kilometers before entering the wetlands.

Day 20 - Tsodilo Hills

You have the day at leisure to explore nearby attractions such as the Tsodilo Hills (a World Heritage site with important rock art), the Drotsky Caves (accessible by 4x4 vehicle only) and the Mahango Game Park.
Tsodilo Hills in northwestern Botswana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for ancient rock art, earning it the nickname "Louvre of the Desert." This spiritual site, sacred to the San people, boasts thousands of rock paintings, some dating back 24,000 years. These paintings depict hunting scenes and daily life. Besides its archaeological significance, Tsodilo Hills offer breathtaking views of the Kalahari Desert. Guided tours provide insights into this ancient marvel, making it a captivating destination for history and art enthusiasts.

Day 21 & 22 - Guma Lagoon

During your route to Maun, stop-over at Guma Lagoon, nestled in Botswana's north. This serene spot along the Okavango River beckons nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Explore the area and embark on a Mokoro ride, offering close encounters with wildlife along the riverbanks for exceptional photo opportunities.

Day 23 - Maun

Head back to Maun where you will spend the night. An airport transfer is arranged with the lodge.

Things to do

What's Included

  • Airport Transfers
  • 4x4 Vehicle with AC & GPS
  • Lodge Accommodation & Campsites
  • Meals: Bed & Breakfast & Self-Catering
  • Vehicle delivery to Maun Airport
  • Vehicle Collection from Maun Airport
  • Vehicle Excess

What's Not Included

  • Alcoholic Beverages & Drinks
  • Fuel & Rental Vehicle Insurance
  • Gratuities & Tips
  • International Flights (Arrival & Departure)
  • Items of Personal Nature
  • Meals: Lunch & Dinner
  • Park Entry Fees & Permits
  • Travel Insurance
  • VISA (If Applicable)

Your Peace of Mind Options

Cancellation Policy

A transparent overview of applicable fees.

What our customers ask about this tour

Is a mokoro canoe ride safe?

Yes, mokoro canoe rides are safe and are guided by experienced local polers who are skilled in navigating the waterways, ensuring a tranquil and secure experience.

Are there a lot of mosquitoes in the Okavango Delta?

While the Okavango Delta is home to mosquitoes, especially during the warmer months, most lodges provide mosquito nets and repellents to ensure a comfortable and bite-free stay. It's always a good idea to take personal precautions.

Can I drink water from the tap at Botswana lodges?

It's generally recommended to drink bottled or filtered water at Botswana lodges, as tap water may not always be safe for all visitors. Always check with your lodge to confirm their water quality.

Can’t find the answer to your question?

Reach out to our experts with your enquiry, they usually respond in less than 2 hours.

Good to Know

Currency

In Namibia, the official currency is the Namibian Dollar (NAD), which is pegged to the South African Rand (ZAR), and the Rand is also widely accepted.

In Botswana, the local currency is the Botswana Pula (BWP), though South African Rand may be accepted in some places.

In Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe), the Zimbabwean Dollar (ZWL) is used, but US Dollars, South African Rand, and other currencies are commonly accepted, especially in tourist areas.

In South Africa, the official currency is the South African Rand (ZAR). It is widely accepted across the country and can also be used in Namibia, where the Namibian Dollar (NAD) is pegged to it.

Travel Requirements for Adults with Children Under 18

Adults travelling with children under 18 must provide the child’s original Birth Certificate and a consent form if only one parent is accompanying the child. Failure to present these documents may result in denied entry.

Visa

Unfortunately, we do not offer visa application services. Whether you require a visa depends on your nationality and your destination. If your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you’re visiting, you will need to apply for a visa before your departure. Additionally, some countries may require an invitation letter for the Namibian Embassy to process a tourist visa. If needed, guests can contact us for assistance with obtaining the invitation letter.

Keep Exploring

Book this Tour

  • Experience Botswana’s diverse wildlife and landscapes with a self-drive safari, from Moremi’s wildlife wonders to the tranquil Guma Lagoon, offering a perfect mix of adventure and cultural discovery.
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Sustainability Initiatives

Animal Welfare
We do not offer any tours involving elephant rides or any activities that exploit animals for entertainment.

Supporting Destinations
We consciously try to reduce over-tourism by taking travellers outside of the main visitor hubs. We hire local guides.