Journey to Botswana, Zimbabwe and Zambia in search of the Big Five – elephants, leopards, lions, rhinoceros and Cape buffalo. Travel the Okavango Delta where hippos, zebras, giraffes and antelope can be spotted. See the stunning Victoria Falls and learn about the rich history of Livingstone. Visit local villages and meet with government representatives to gain an in-depth look at life in these countries. Local wildlife experts are with you as you explore the game reserves and national parks in these diverse countries.
Elephants at their watering hole.
Saturday, December 7 – Arrivals/Orientation
Arrive Johannesburg where you clear Customs and are met and transferred 20 minutes to the Courtyard Hotel. Enjoy the complimentary snacks and beverages during happy hour in the main lounge of the hotel. Tonight, we will have dinner and an orientation to hear about the coming days and meet your fellow tour participants. Overnight in Johannesburg. (D)
Sunday, December 8 – Fly to Botswana/Drive to Moremi Game Reserve
Breakfast buffet at the hotel. We then transfer to the Johannesburg airport to board your commercial flight to Maun, Botswana. En-route to Moremi Game Reserve, you stop at a local crafts center where you have a demonstration on how to make paper out of elephant dung. Afterwards, embark on your drive in 4×4 vehicles through typical Botswana woodlands to Moremi and your campsite; there is a good chance of seeing game along the way. Boxed lunch en-route. Arrive at your private mobile tented camp and settle in. Located in the southeastern part of the Okavango Delta, the Moremi Game Reserve is one of the most famous wildlife sanctuaries in the world. It is particularly well known for its predators, especially one of the most endangered carnivores in Africa, the wild dog. Lion and leopard are commonly found as well as herds of buffalo, elephant and hippo. Game in Moremi is abundant and varied, and includes tsessebe, lechwe, wildebeest, impala, waterbuck, sable and giraffe. Later this afternoon your guide gives an overview on the history and culture of Botswana.
Dinner prepared by the camp cook. Dine in the open air under the stars, with a campfire following dinner. Overnight at Mobile Tented Camp. (B,L,D)
Out on safari...
Monday, December 9 – The Okavango Delta/Termites
After breakfast is served at camp you drive through a large variety of different vegetation types, down winding tracks, through mopane forests and across lush grasslands in search of plains game and other species. The scenic beauty of Moremi adds to your experience of Botswana’s verdant Garden of Eden, the Okavango Delta. Lunch is at camp; during tea time your guide gives a lecture on termites and their effect on the environment. Afterward, embark on a game drive. Lion and leopard are commonly found as well as herds of buffalo, elephant and hippo.
Dinner and overnight at Mobile Tented Camp. (B,L,D)
Tuesday, December 10 – Endangered Carnivores/Delta Hydrology and Geology
Breakfast at camp then a game drive to search for wild dog and other endangered carnivores. Lunch is at camp then a class on Delta hydrology and geology during tea time. Afterward, take one last game drive in Moremi keeping your eyes open for tsessebe, lechwe, wildebeest, impala, waterbuck, elephant, sable and giraffe.
Dinner and overnight at Mobile Tented Camp. (B,L,D)
Lunch at camp...always a treat!
Wednesday, December 11 – Chobe National Park/Elephant Social Structure
After breakfast at camp you are transferred to a nearby airstrip with game viewing en-route. Take a small aircraft charter flight from the airstrip to Kasane (Chobe National Park). Upon arrival in Kasane, you are met and driven a short distance to a local lodge for lunch. This afternoon you explore the Chobe River by motorboat where you may come face to face with the elephant, buffalo and other wildlife that gather on the banks of the river to drink and bathe. Immerse yourself in the unique environment viewing numerous birds including sacred ibis, blue heron, goliath heron, saddle-billed storks, marabou storks and little egrets. Chobe National Park remains one of Africa’s prime game-viewing areas. Here one finds all of the “Big Five,” except for rhino. This is elephant country, home to the largest population of elephants in the world…many of these great grey giants can be seen at this time of year. (Note that seasonality makes a big difference in how much game you will see. If it’s dry you will see larger herds; if it has recently rained the animals will be more dispersed.) The park forms part of Botswana’s northern-most border and is a contrast of desert aridity and flood plains. The Chobe region is best known for its vast magnificent river and floodplains filled with grazing herds of big game. Buffalo, sable, lion, leopard, hippo, hyena, and many species of antelope find safety in this huge national park. Chobe is one of Africa’s most pristine ecosystems and greatest wildlife refuges. Following the Chobe boat cruise, you are driven across the Zimbabwe border to Imbabala Lodge, where you have a chance to settle in and enjoy the riverfront scenery. This evening, your guide gives a lecture on elephant social structure and behavior.
Dinner and overnight at Imbabala Zambezi Safari Lodge. (B,L,D)
Game viewing on the Chobe River
Thursday, December 12 – Game Drives/Overview of Zimbabwe
Breakfast at the lodge then a morning game drive in the private reserve surrounding the lodge. The 5,000 acre national park concession has nearly nine miles of private Zambezi River frontage, and it borders the Chobe Forest Reserve which is renowned for its massive elephant population. Game drives here are taken in open-air safari vehicles in the early morning and late afternoons into evening, moving through the plains searching for predators and other game. Lunch is at the lodge where your guide leads a discussion on the past, present and future of Zimbabwe. Following tea, you embark on a game viewing boat cruise on the Zambezi River. Here you may have the chance to spot wildlife coming to drink and bathe in the river, as well as observe the multitude of birds that gather on the river’s banks.
Dinner and overnight at Imbabala Zambezi Safari Lodge. (B,L,D)
Friday, December 13 – Victoria Falls on Zimbabwe Side/Local Orphanage
After breakfast at the lodge a morning departure takes you to Victoria Falls, where you have a chance to view the Falls on the Zimbabwean side. Since the waterfall spans the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, it is visible from both countries, but the majority of the water falls on the Zimbabwean side. Viewing the Falls from this side provides numerous overlooks and truly gives you a feel for the full majesty of this natural wonder. Here your guide shows you how through the millennia the forces of nature have created this marvelous spectacle, Africa’s greatest waterfall. Afterward, transfer over the Zambian border via the stunning bridge that spans the Batoka Gorge just downstream from the Falls. Lunch is at the lodge in Livingstone then you are transferred to a nearby local orphanage where you have a chance to experience Zambian life and culture, and interact with the children and foster parents. Upon returning to the lodge, your guide gives an overview on Zambian history and culture.
Dinner and overnight at Thorntree River Lodge. (B,L,D)
Victoria Falls
Saturday, December 14 – Livingstone Museum and Local Village
Breakfast at the lodge where your group leader gives a lecture on David Livingstone and his discovery of the Falls. Transfer into the old colonial town of Livingstone and visit the Livingstone Museum. The museum is located in the heart of town and is known for its archaeological and ethnographic displays. Its premier exhibit is a collection of letters, notes and other artifacts that belonged to David Livingstone. Afterward, visit the Mukuni Village, gaining cultural insight by learning how these locals truly live. You learn the deep history of this village and of the surrounding area as shared by a local guide. You have an opportunity to interact with villagers as they invite you into their homestead. Learn the methods in which these traditional huts are made and decorated. Finish at the chief’s residence where the royal family’s history and village politics are explained. Before departing, meet with wood carvers and other artisans at the local market. Lunch is at the lodge and then this afternoon you have free time with a variety of local activities to choose from.
Dinner and overnight at Thorntree River Lodge. (B,L,D)
Meeting local school children
Sunday, December 15 – Fly to Mfuwe/South Luangwa Valley
After breakfast at the lodge you are transferred to the Livingstone Airport and depart on a scheduled charter flight to the Mfuwe Airport in the South Luangwa Valley. Lunch at the lodge in Mfuwe. Upon arrival into Mfuwe, you are met and taken by 4×4 vehicles to Mfuwe Lodge. After settling into your room, depart on a game drive for approximately two hours. Game drives in South Luangwa National Park are taken in open-air safari vehicles moving slowly searching for wild game.
Dinner and overnight at Mfuwe Lodge. Dinners here vary between a three-course meal and a buffet. Also, a traditional South African barbeque or “braii,” where guests eat in the outdoor eating area or “boma,” is offered at times. (B,L,D)
Monday, December 16 – Bush Walk/Game Drive/Night Wildlife
Early continental breakfast followed by mid-morning snacks in the bush (tea and coffee, muffins and biscuits). This morning you either participate in a guided bush walk with an armed guard or go on a game drive with refreshments and snacks. During the bush walk, your guide gives a lecture on animal tracking. Brunch consists of a full buffet including many cooked breakfast and lunch items as well as salads and desserts. Leisure time during the heat of mid-day. You can relax around the pool or view game from the deck of your private chalet. Afternoon tea with lecture on the unique surrounding ecosystem and the structure of the Zambian National Parks. Afterward, enjoy a day-into-night game drive. While on night drives leopard, hyena, porcupine, civet, genet and honey badger are commonly sighted.
Dinner and overnight at Mfuwe Lodge. (B,Br,D)
Guided bush walk...
Tuesday, December 17 – Tracking Wildlife/Local School and Village
Early continental breakfast at the lodge and mid-morning snacks on drive. Again this morning you have the choice of a game drive or a bush walk with an armed guide and an emphasis on spoor, vegetation, birds, insects and bush lore; discussion on how to track animals. Brunch is a full buffet. Visit to a nearby school, village and textiles manufacturing site. You are shown around the school by the headmaster and learn about the school’s projects, as well as have the opportunity to interact with the children. You also interact with locals to learn about the village’s tree planting and fish farming. Afterward, visit a textiles manufacturing co-op which was developed to provide a sustainable source of employment and income for the local community.
Dinner and overnight at Mfuwe Lodge. (B,Br,D)
Learning about local dances.
Wednesday, December 18 – Lion Social Structure/Final Game Viewing
Early morning tea/coffee and continental breakfast then a game drive to search the surrounding area for animals that may have eluded you thus far. Full buffet brunch followed by the mid-day at leisure. Over tea, your guide gives a lecture on lion social structure and behavior. End the afternoon with one last game drive in the South Luangwa National Park.
Dinner and overnight at Mfuwe Lodge (B,Br,D)
Enjoying a "sundowner"!
Thursday, December 19 – Lusaka
Breakfast at the lodge then you are transferred to the Mfuwe Airport for an hour-long scheduled charter flight to Lusaka, Zambia. Lusaka is the capital and largest city of Zambia. This rapidly growing city is the center of both commerce and government in the country. This afternoon, you visit the local Peace Corps delegation to learn about what they are working on in Zambia, and the difficulties they face. You also meet with a representative from Zambia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (or other government representative), who discusses the country’s current political situation and foreign relations.
Farewell dinner and overnight at the Southern Sun Ridgeway Hotel (B,D)
Friday, December 20- Fly to Johannesburg/Departures
In the late morning, you are transferred to the Lusaka airport where you board a commercial flight to Johannesburg. Upon arrival in Johannesburg, connect to your international flight back to the U.S. or ongoing travel. (B)
Lodging
Courtyard Hotel Eastgate:
The Courtyard Hotel, a beautifully appointed, Tuscan-themed hotel, is located on a small lake only 15 minutes from the Johannesburg International Airport in a very secure area. All studio suites have private, attached bathrooms, and either twin or double beds.
http://www.h-rez.com/a183101/index.htm?lbl=ggl-en&gclid=CMLYh-Le_rUCFeXKtAodOX0Acg
Mobile Tented Camp:
An authentic, tented safari camp is set up in a private location with Hemingway-style safari tents. Each tent has two beds with linens and an attached bathroom with chemical toilet and bucket shower (hot water on request). All meals are taken in casual safari style near the campfire and shaded by many large trees.
Imbabala Zambezi Safari Lodge:
The Imbabala Zambezi Safari Lodge is a beautiful thatched lodge resting by the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe. Due to its border with the Chobe Forest Reserve, Imbabala is a regular stop for elephant herds. The lodge features a lounge, dining room, and bar area but meals are often served outside by a hospitable staff. Rooms are stone and thatch mini-lodges with breathtaking views of the Zambezi River and a watering hole where animals often congregate. During the day guests can take advantage of morning and afternoon game drives, river safaris, walking safaris, fishing safaris, and more.
http://www.imbabalazambezisafarilodge.com/
Thorntree River Lodge:
Thorntree River Lodge is a wonderfully situated camp on the banks of the Zambezi River with comfortable stone and thatch chalets hidden in the tangle of lush riverine bush. All chalets have large private bathrooms and are shaded by a large thatched canopy. The atmosphere is informal and one of classic safari style. The wide sweeping panorama of the river lends a special magic to the location. Thorntree’s riverside location and its unique position within the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park allows for a wide choice of activities, including sunset cruises, game-drives, cultural tours, fishing, and visit to Victoria Falls. The esteemed national park is a sanctuary for white rhino as well as a haven for many other species including giraffe, sable, zebra, wildebeest, buffalo and a wide variety of birds.
http://thorntreeriverlodge.co/lodge.php?gclid=CNe96J7g_rUCFfLLtAodSn8AKA
Mfuwe Lodge:
Mfuwe Lodge is situated in the heart of the South Luangwa National Park and is built between two spectacular lagoons. The open plan design keeps the comfort and relaxation of guests in mind, but also capitalizes on the fact that an African wilderness experience is a blend of colors, textures, sounds, aromas and sights unmatched anywhere else in the world. Each chalet has a large private deck overlooking one of the lagoons. From the comfort of the lodge you can view Africa’s majestic wildlife as animals come down to drink. Elephant, hippopotamus, many antelope species and crocodiles are plentiful in this area.
http://www.mfuwelodge.com/
Southern Sun Ridgeway:
Conveniently located in Lusaka’s business district, the Southern Sun Ridgeway is set in attractive, landscaped gardens and offers business and leisure travelers a welcoming atmosphere. The guest rooms are tastefully furnished and offer every modern facility. The restaurant has a scenic view across the gardens and you can enjoy light meals by the pool as well.
http://www.bedandbreakfastworld.com/zambia/lusaka/southern-sun-ridgeway-hotel/36851
COST per person: $7,700. based on double occupancy
Single supplement: $875.
What is included:
* Meals included are indicated as B, L, D
* All touring as described
* Park and entry fees for included activities
* Bottled water and tea/coffee throughout; soft drinks also included during the mobile camp only
* Gratuities to local staff, drivers, guides and the group leader
* Services of a local group leader for duration of the itinerary
* Internal Africa commercial flights (Johannesburg/Maun on Dec 8th and Lusaka/Johannesburg on Dec 20th)
What is not included:
* Entry visas for Zimbabwe (currently US$30 per person for US citizens; US$75 for Canadian citizens) and Zambia (currently US$50 per person for US and Canadian citizens). No entry visas needed for South Africa or Botswana.
* International airfare is additional. TunisUSA will be happy to advise the best options
* Any purchases of a personal nature, hotel expenditures such as laundry, mini-bar, business center related expenses and spa expenses