Northern Namibia & Best of Botswana Self-Drive Tour – 23 Days

Experience the breathtaking wonders of Southern Africa on this exhilarating self-drive tour spanning Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. Begin your journey in Windhoek, the vibrant capital of Namibia, where you’ll immerse yourself in the city’s unique cultural blend. From there, venture to the beautiful Waterberg Plateau, where dramatic red cliffs and lush vegetation create a stunning backdrop for wildlife encounters.

Next, prepare to be awe-inspired as you explore Etosha National Park, a sanctuary teeming with diverse wildlife. Embark on exhilarating game drives and witness elephants, lions, rhinos, and countless other species roaming freely in their natural habitat.

Continue your expedition to Grootfontein, a historical town known for its meteorite impact sites and fascinating local heritage. Journeying onward, you’ll arrive at the Okavango River, a lifeline of pristine beauty. Glide through the river’s crystal-clear waters, taking in the surrounding panoramic vistas and encountering the abundant birdlife and aquatic creatures.

Crossing the border into Botswana, you’ll arrive in Kasane, a gateway to the world-renowned Chobe National Park. Delight in thrilling safaris, where encounters with elephants, buffalos, hippos, and crocodiles are a common sight. Feel the mist on your face as you venture to the iconic Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and witness the sheer power and majesty of one of the world’s largest waterfalls.

Concluding your journey, arrive in Maun, the gateway to Okavango Delta. Traverse the Delta’s intricate network of channels and islands on a mokoro (traditional dugout canoe), getting up close to the unique flora and fauna that call this remarkable ecosystem home.

Throughout this unforgettable self-drive tour, you’ll be surprised by the stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and rich culture that define this corner of Africa. From the vast plains of Etosha to the mighty Victoria Falls, this expedition promises a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that will leave you with cherished memories of Southern Africa’s natural wonders.

Accommodation

Lodge

Luxury Lodge

Mid-range Lodges

Day Summary

Day 1 - Greater Windhoek, Namibia

Day 2 - Waterberg Region

Day 3 - Etosha National Park

Day 4 - Etosha National Park

Day 5 - Onguma Private Nature Reserve

Day 6 - Grootfontein, Namibia

Day 7 - Grootfontein, Namibia

Day 8 - Okavango River, Namibia

Day 9 - Okavango River, Namibia

Day 10 - Kwando River

Day 11 - Bwabwata National Park, Botswana

Day 12 - Kasane, Botswana

Day 13 - Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Day 14 - Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Day 15 - Kasane, Botswana

Day 16 & 17 - Chobe National Park

Day 18 & 19 -Khwai

Day 20 - Maun

Included

Airport Transfers

All accommodations/campsites & meals as listed in this itinerary

An air-conditioned 4x4 with an automatic transmission, GPS & SAT Phone

A standard excess of N$ 45,000.00 will be authorized by credit card (VISA or MasterCard) on the day of vehicle collection

Vehicle pick-up from Maun Airport

Excluded

Visas (if applicable)

Fuel & Insurance

Park Entry Fees

Alcoholic Beverages

International flights (arrival & departure)

Gratuities & tips, items of personal nature

Day by day

Departure/Return Location:

Hosea Kutako International Airport

Day 1 - Greater Windhoek, Namibia

Welcome to Namibia! The adventure begins as soon as you touch the ground, at Hosea Kutako International Airport.
Their friendly shuttle driver will be waiting for you at the arrival gates. Catch your first glimpses of Windhoek through the car window as you are transported to your B&B.

Day 2 - Waterberg Region

We have arranged an early pick-up from the B&B to the car hire depot for vehicle collection.
After vehicle pick-up, you will then head north to the Waterberg region.
Nestled in Namibia, the Waterberg Plateau stands as a geological marvel, rising dramatically from the plains. This sanctuary is home to rare species like white rhinos and sable antelopes, making it a hub for conservation. With over 200 bird species and diverse wildlife, it's a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Beyond its ecological importance, the plateau holds historical significance, adding depth to its allure. Explore this captivating corner of Namibia, where nature and history intertwine seamlessly.

Day 3 - Etosha National Park

The road takes you north today as you make your way to the Etosha National Park, located in north-western Namibia. The area is home to hundreds of species of mammals, birds, and reptiles, including several threatened and endangered species such as the black rhinoceros.
Etosha National Park, Namibia's prized jewel, boasts an astonishing array of wildlife against a surreal salt pan backdrop. Covering over 22,900 square kilometers, it's one of Africa's largest game reserves. Etosha translates to "Great White Place," an apt description for its shimmering salt pans visible even from space. Home to the Big Five and rare species like the black-faced impala, it's a photographer's paradise. The park's waterholes, a lifeline for the animals, offer prime spots for wildlife enthusiasts. Etosha's allure lies not just in its biodiversity but also in its enigmatic atmosphere, where sunsets paint the savannah in hues of gold. A journey through Etosha promises encounters with nature's grandeur at every turn.

Day 4 - Etosha National Park

Spend the full day game-driving inside the park. Stopover at the different watering holes and observe the sometimes-large number of different animals quenching their thirst.
If you are lucky, you get to see and snap a photo of the endangered white or black rhinoceros.
Watch herds of springbok antelope, along with zebras, wild dogs, giraffes, elephants, and lions, to name just a few. There are hundreds of different species of animals, not to mention birds and insects, that roam this part of Namibia.
Etosha is home to four of the BIG 5 species. The buffalo is the only mammal not found in the park.

Day 5 - Onguma Private Nature Reserve

Nestled within the enchanting embrace of the eastern realms of Etosha National Park lies Onguma Private Nature Reserve, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Spanning an expansive 34,000 hectares of pristine wilderness, Onguma promises unparalleled game viewing experiences. Here, the untamed beauty of nature unveils itself in every corner, inviting you to embark on thrilling adventures. Over the next two nights, immerse yourself in the heart of the wild, where encounters with Namibia's diverse wildlife become cherished memories. Onguma Private Nature Reserve, where every moment is a tale of discovery and every whisper of the wind carries the essence of true African wilderness.

Day 6 - Grootfontein, Namibia

Amidst the boundless wonders of Etosha National Park, it's time to say farewell to this sanctuary of wildlife and embrace a new chapter in your adventure. Grootfontein, strategically positioned between the heart of Etosha and Zambezi Region, beckons with open arms.
Engage with locals, embracing cultural richness, and embark on scenic hikes. Nearby game reserves offer thrilling safaris amidst Namibia's wildlife. Savor local cuisine, ending your day stargazing under the vast Namibian sky. Grootfontein, a captivating destination, promises enchanting memories amid its natural splendor.

Day 7 - Grootfontein, Namibia

You have the day at leisure to relax by the pool or meander around the area in search of local game and birds. Explore the colossal Hoba Meteorite and delve into history at the Grootfontein Museum. At Harnas Wildlife Foundation, encounter majestic wildlife, connecting with nature's wonders.

Day 8 - Okavango River, Namibia

Set roughly 200 kilometers east of Rundu on the south-eastern banks of the great Okavango River, the small village of Divundu is a wonderful destination from which to explore the river, game parks and national reserves of the area.
Divundu serves as a gateway to the Zambezi Region, making it an ideal stopover for those exploring Namibia's northeastern wonders. The Okavango River provides opportunities for boat cruises, offering glimpses of riverine life and picturesque sunsets. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture, interacting with friendly communities and discovering traditional Namibian crafts.

Day 9 - Okavango River, Namibia

Activities offered, include guided game drives, boat cruises, angling expeditions, and traditional Mokoro canoe trips down the river.

Day 10 - Kwando River

Meandering through the spectacular Caprivi Strip in northwest Namibia, the Kwando River rises from the central Angolan highlands forming the boundary between Namibia, Zambia and Angola. The area surrounding the Kwando River is known for its protected game reserves, national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.

Day 11 - Bwabwata National Park, Botswana

You have the day to explore Bwabwata National Park and Nkasa Rupara National Park at your own pace. Guided game drives can be organised. Mamili Park is especially wild and remote, with the priority on encountering wildlife.

Day 12 - Kasane, Botswana

Today you will cross the border to Botswana and make your way to Kasane. Tucked away in the north-eastern corner of Botswana, on the banks of the famous Chobe River, the scenic little town of Kasane rests on the doorstep of the spectacular Chobe National Park. There are no boundary fences separating the village from the park and game such as elephant and hippo are often spotted roaming around the town.

Day 13 - Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

We have arranged a road transfer to Victoria Falls today. Home to the spectacular Victoria Falls, which can be easily visited and viewed from the Zimbabwean side. Considered to be the world’s widest waterfalls, Victoria Falls measures an impressive 1708 metres in width.

Day 14 - Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

You have the day to explore Victoria Falls. There are plenty of activities on offer, from guided walking tours, river cruises, bike tours, and canopy tours.
For the adrenaline junkies, there is white-water rafting, zip-lining, helicopter scenic flights, or bungee jumping.

Day 15 - Kasane, Botswana

It is time to bid Vic Falls farewell. A road transfer will take you back to Kasane, Botswana. From here your self-drive adventure continues via Chobe Enclave. Visitors can look forward to a range of exciting activities such as 4WD along the banks; motorboat cruises; and rare birdlife spotting. For a unique, luxury safari experience, hire a houseboat.

Day 16 & 17 - Chobe National Park

Savuti, also known as Savuti, lies in the heart of Botswana’s beautiful Chobe National Park. This dynamic wilderness is a sweeping expanse of savannah brooded over by several rocky outcrops which guard a relic marsh and the dry channel that was once its lifeline. You will be spending two nights at this location.

Day 18 & 19 -Khwai

Next stop, The Khwai area of the Okavango which lies along the northern boundary of the Moremi Game Reserve. Khwai Community Area has unfenced boundaries allowing wildlife to move freely between the woodlands in the wet season when water is plentiful and back to permanent rivers and lagoons in the dry season.

Day 20 - Maun

Today you will make your way to Maun, set on the banks of the beautiful Thamalakane River in northern Botswana, Maun is the third-largest town in this spectacularly scenic southern African country. Spend the night in Maun and get an airport transfer for your homeward journey the next day.