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Botswana & Namibia Budget Adventure Self-Drive Tour

From

Maun

to

Mahango Game Park

Duration

18 Days

Accommodation

Campsite, Lodge
  • Sunset cruise at Chobe River
  • Okavango Delta
  • Red Letchwe & Wattled Crane
  • Baobab tree Makgadigadi Pans at Gweta Botswana
  • Lilac Breasted Roller
CulturalFeatures WildlifeSightseeing

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable safari adventure through Botswana and Namibia, beginning in Maun with a relaxing two-night stay by the Thamalakane River. After picking up your rental vehicle, explore Maun and stock up on supplies. Your journey continues to Nata for two nights, where you’ll visit the Nata Bird Sanctuary and Makgadikgadi Pans. Crossing into Namibia, you’ll stay near Divundu to explore Mahango Game Park and Buffalo Park. Next, head to the Kwando River for boat cruises and game drives in Bwabwata National Park. Then, travel to Chobe National Park for guided safaris and a recommended day trip to Victoria Falls, with road transfers arranged for your convenience. Continue to Linyanti and Savuti, where you’ll enjoy wildlife sightings and the tranquillity of nature, before heading to Moremi Game Reserve for thrilling game drives and boat-based activities in the Okavango Delta. Finally, return to Maun for your departure, where you’ll hand back your rental vehicle and catch your flight, concluding a safari experience filled with wildlife, adventure, and serenity.

Please note that campsites in Botswana are not all fenced off, so it’s important to remain cautious during your stay. Be sure to keep food securely stored to avoid attracting wildlife. We also recommend not walking away from the campsite, especially at night, as the surrounding area is home to a variety of animals, including predators. Staying vigilant ensures a safe and enjoyable experience in the wild.

Places You'll See

Highlights

  • Experience diverse landscapes and wildlife from the Makgadikgadi Pans to the Okavango Delta.
  • Enjoy thrilling game drives, boat cruises, and a recommended day trip to Victoria Falls.
  • Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of nature with visits to renowned reserves like Chobe, Moremi, and Savuti.

Itinerary

Departure/Return Location:

Maun International Airport

DAY 1 & 2 - Maun

Welcome to Maun, the gateway to your unforgettable Botswana safari adventure! Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly greeted and transferred to a serene lodge set on the picturesque Thamalakane River, where you will spend the first two nights. This riverside retreat offers the perfect opportunity to relax and acclimatise to your surroundings.

The next morning, your rental vehicle will be handed over at the lodge, ensuring a smooth and convenient start to your self-drive journey. With the rest of the day at your leisure, explore Maun’s charming town, perhaps visiting the local market or the Maun Educational Park. Take the opportunity to stock up on fuel, groceries, and any last-minute supplies before embarking on your adventure the following day.

DAY 3 & 4 - Nata

From Maun, you’ll head to Nata, where you’ll spend two nights unwinding and exploring this charming village. Visit the Nata Bird Sanctuary, where you can see flamingos, pelicans, and other birds, especially during the rainy season. If you're up for adventure, take a 4x4 trip to the expansive Makgadikgadi Pans, one of the largest salt flats in the world, and experience the magic of a sunset over the vast, serene landscape. In the evenings, relax at your lodge or enjoy some stargazing under Botswana's crystal-clear skies.

DAY 5 & 6 - Divundu, Namibia

From Nata, you'll cross into Namibia at Shakawe and spend two nights at a lodge near Divundu on the Okavango River. While here, you can visit Mahango Game Park, known for elephants, hippos, and rare antelope, and Buffalo Park, which offers sightings of buffalo herds and predators like lions and leopards. Both parks provide excellent game viewing and bird watching opportunities in a peaceful, scenic setting.

Day 7 & 8 - Kwando River, Namibia

Your next stop is the Kwando River, where you'll stay at a lodge immersed in the untamed beauty of Namibia's Zambezi Region. While here, you can book guided game drives to explore the nearby Bwabwata National Park, home to elephants, lions, buffalo, and more. A highlight of your stay will be the boat cruises along the Kwando River, where you'll witness hippos, crocodiles, and a diverse array of bird species up close. These activities offer an intimate way to experience the region's wildlife and stunning landscapes, making for an unforgettable safari adventure.

Day 9 & 10 - Chobe National Park

The journey continues as you cross the border from Namibia into Botswana and make your way to Chobe National Park for two nights. Here, you can enjoy guided game drives and boat cruises, offering close-up views of the park’s abundant wildlife.

We recommend setting aside a day for a visit to Victoria Falls, a short transfer away. The falls are a wonder to behold, and you can explore them on a guided tour or opt for a thrilling helicopter flight for stunning aerial views. If you’re seeking adventure, consider white-water rafting or a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. We handle road transfers to Victoria Falls to save you the hassle of crossing with your rental vehicle, which can be costly and time-consuming.

Day 11 & 12 - Linyanti

The self-drive safari continues as you head to Linyanti for a two-night stay at a campsite nestled in a remote and tranquil setting. Linyanti is known for its diverse ecosystem and offers fantastic opportunities for wildlife sightings, particularly along the river and wetlands. The area provides a perfect escape from more structured safari experiences, allowing you to enjoy the stillness of nature. Whether relaxing by the campfire or observing the sounds of the night, Linyanti offers an authentic and adventurous experience in the wild.

Day 13 & 14 - Savuti

From Linyanti, you’ll head to Savuti for two nights, immersing yourself in a wild, untamed setting. Famous for its diverse landscapes, Savuti offers incredible game viewing, from elephants and lions to a variety of antelope. The fluctuating Savuti Channel attracts wildlife, making it a prime spot for game drives. In the evenings, unwind at camp, listening to the sounds of the African bush. Savuti provides an intimate safari experience, where you can explore the area or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Day 15 & 16 - Moremi

From Savuti, you’ll continue your adventure to Moremi Game Reserve, renowned for its diverse landscapes, including forests, floodplains, and savannahs. Here, you’ll enjoy thrilling game drives and the chance to see a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and leopards. The Okavango Delta’s waterways offer unique boat-based viewing, giving you a fresh perspective on the area’s animals. Moremi’s diverse ecosystems ensure an unforgettable safari experience, blending both land and water-based activities.

DAY 17 & 18 - Maun

After your time in Moremi, you’ll head back to Maun for your final night. The next day, you’ll catch your departure flight, and we’ve made sure the process is smooth and stress-free. Your rental vehicle will be handed back to our car hire representative at the airport two hours before your flight, giving you plenty of time to check in and relax before you depart.

Things to do

What's Included

  • Airport Transfers
  • 4x4 Vehicle with AC, GPS & Camping Gear
  • Bed & Breakfast & Self-Catering
  • 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
  • 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 the trip suitable for families?

Yes, this safari offers family-friendly activities with ample wildlife viewing and scenic experiences.

Can I visit Victoria Falls from my safari?

Yes, a road transfer to Victoria Falls from Chobe can be arranged for a day visit or an overnight stay.

Can I customize my safari itinerary?

Absolutely! Your safari experience can be tailored to suit your interests, with options for additional activities or extra days at specific locations.

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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Traditional Mokoro/Canoe Trip

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  • Book this safari for an action-packed adventure through Botswana and Namibia, offering breathtaking wildlife encounters and unforgettable landscapes.

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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.