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

Best of Botswana Camping Self-Drive Tour

From

Central Kalahari Game Reserve

to

Deception Valley

Duration

11 Days

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Botswana with our self-drive safari itinerary. This journey invites you to explore diverse landscapes, from the breathtaking Central Kalahari Game Reserve to the stunning vistas of Deception Valley and the tranquil beauty of Piper Pan Campsite. You’ll have the freedom to navigate your path, spotting wildlife in their natural habitats, including majestic lions, graceful zebras, and the elusive brown hyena. Experience the thrill of camping under a starlit sky while immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of nature. With carefully chosen campsites and the opportunity to engage in thrilling game drives and bird watching, this self-drive safari promises a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and the beauty of Botswana’s wilderness. Whether you are a seasoned traveller or a first-time explorer, this journey is designed to create lasting memories in one of Africa’s most spectacular destinations.

Places You'll See

Highlights

  • Spot iconic predators like lions, leopards, and wild dogs, along with diverse species such as oryx, wildebeest, and springbok during thrilling game drives.
  • Explore the Kalahari's unique ecosystem up close, learning about animal tracks, resilient desert plants, and smaller wildlife through expert-guided walks.
  • Relax under a clear desert sky, enjoying breathtaking sunsets and stargazing at night, with the peaceful sounds of the African wilderness surrounding your campsite.

Itinerary

Departure/Return Location:

Maun International Airport

DAY 1 - Maun

Upon arrival in Maun, you will be greeted by our friendly car hire representative. After a warm welcome, you'll receive a detailed briefing on your vehicle, including how to change a tyre, use the emergency tools, and operate the air compressor and camping equipment. Once the handover is complete, you'll drive to your hotel in Maun, where you can relax and get acclimatized before your upcoming adventure.

DAY 2 & 3 - Khutse Game Reserve

Today, drive to Khutse Game Reserve, located on the southern edge of the Central Kalahari Desert, and set up camp amidst its rugged terrain. As you explore the reserve, you may spot majestic black-maned lions, sleek cheetahs, and elusive brown hyenas, along with herds of springbok and gemsbok. The reserve is also home to smaller species like bat-eared foxes, jackals, and aardvarks, while birdwatchers can enjoy sightings of Kori bustards and lappet-faced vultures. Waterholes throughout the reserve serve as prime viewing spots, particularly during early mornings and late afternoons. End the day with a peaceful evening under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness.

DAY 4 & 5 - Xade Campsite, Central Kalahari Game Reserve

Continue your self-drive safari as you travel from Khutse Game Reserve to Xade Campsite in the Central Kalahari, surrounded by desert landscapes and unique wildlife like meerkats, oryx, and wild dogs. Enjoy early morning and late afternoon game drives, a guided nature walk to learn about the ecosystem, and bird watching opportunities. On Day 2, spot Kalahari lions, gemsbok, and more during a game drive, then relax with a sunset drive and stargazing around a campfire, embracing the peaceful desert atmosphere.

DAY 6 & 7 - Piper Pan Campsite, Central Kalahari Game Reserve

Journey from Xade Campsite to Piper Pan Campsite, where you'll be surrounded by stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, including oryx, wildebeest, and zebras. Enjoy early morning game drives and bird watching, with species like the Kori bustard and Secretary bird to spot. On Day 2, venture out on a game drive to see springbok, giraffes, and predators such as lions and cheetahs, followed by a guided bush walk to explore the Kalahari's ecosystem. End the day with a peaceful night under the stars, immersed in the sounds of the desert.

DAY 8 & 9 - Deception Valley

Travel from Piper Pan to Deception Valley Campsite, where you’ll be immersed in the stunning landscapes of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. Upon arrival, unwind and explore the diverse fauna, including antelope herds and bird life. In the evening, join a game drive to seek out predators like lions and hyenas. On Day 2, enjoy a morning game drive to spot springbok and gemsbok, followed by a walking safari to discover the desert's ecosystem. In the evening, embark on another game drive to track elusive predators, finishing the day with stories around the campfire under the Kalahari sky.

DAY 10 - Return to Maun

As you head back to Maun, you'll return your Land Cruiser 4x4 and settle in for your last night in Botswana's capital. Take this opportunity to reflect on your incredible journey through the wilderness before your departure the next day.

Things to do

What's Included

  • Airport Transfers
  • 4x4 Vehicle with AC, GPS & Camping Gear
  • Campsite Bookings
  • 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
  • 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

Where can I see wild dogs during the safari?

Wild dogs are elusive but can sometimes be spotted in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, particularly around Xade Campsite and the surrounding areas. Early morning or late afternoon game drives offer the best opportunities to encounter these rare and fascinating predators.

What wildlife can I expect to see in Deception Valley?

Deception Valley is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including herds of springbok, gemsbok, and antelope. Predators like lions and leopards are often spotted during game drives, and bird watching enthusiasts may also enjoy sightings of raptors and other species.

What activities are available at Deception Valley Campsite?

At Deception Valley, guests can embark on morning game drives to spot wildlife, followed by guided walking safaris to learn about the desert ecosystem. In the evenings, you can join a sunset game drive to track predators and end the day around the campfire under the stars.

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.

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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.