This tour is conducted at a medium-fast pace. Some long travel days may be required to complete this itinerary and you will typically spend two nights at each destination, with some one night stays required. This trip includes a mix of sightseeing and free time to explore at your own pace. You will be required to move about unassisted, including getting on and off vehicles, walking up and down stairs and some activities will be conducted on uneven or steep terrain. You will be required to handle your own luggage.
This tour is fully escorted by an expert English-speaking guide who will accompany you throughout the tour.
River cruises are a relaxed, informal way to travel - there are fewer passengers on board compared to an ocean cruise, which means ample opportunity to make lifelong friends. You will pass through the world's most loved cities and towns; disembark and enjoy a shore excursion or two, or simply wander around and explore on your own.
✓ Return international airfares with South African Airways
✓ All internal Africa airfares
✓ Return airport transfers
✓ 17 nights boutique lodge accommodation
✓ Including 2 nights on a spectacular houseboat on Lake Kariba
✓ Game drives through the Hwange, Chobe, Okavango and Kruger National Park
✓ Daily breakfast, 11 lunches and 14 dinners
✓ Escorted by an English-speaking guide throughout
✓ Incredible sightseeing as per the itinerary
✓ Dedicated 4×4 safari vehicle transportation
✓ 24/7 customer service and your own Dedicated Support Agent
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Welcome to the trip of a lifetime! Board your flight in Australia and begin your African safari adventure.
After your arrival in Johannesburg you will board a connecting flight to Victoria Falls.
On arrival at Victoria Falls Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the afternoon may be spent at leisure, enjoying one of the many activities available in Victoria Falls. This evening you'll join your guide and the rest of your group at the lodge for a pre-departure meeting to learn more about the incredible itinerary for the next two weeks.
After breakfast follow your guide for a tour of the mighty Victoria Falls, known by the local Kololo tribe as Mosi-oa-Tunya – 'the smoke that thunders'.
We then travel to Kasane in northeastern Botswana, which is the gateway to the Chobe National Park. The second largest national park in Botswana, Chobe covers a whopping 10,566 square kilometres, and boasts one of the greatest concentrations of elephant found on the African continent.
This afternoon is at your leisure: partake in optional activities offered by your lodge or relax by the pool.
At ground level you can feel the enormous power of the Victoria Falls as tremendous volumes of water pound into the chasm below. But it is only when you take to the air that you can take in the enormity of this mighty spectacle. (Clients can do after the Vic Falls tour and before travelling to Kasane)
Starts: approx: 1pm
Duration: approx: 13-15 minutes
Please note the start and duration times outlined are subject to change based on factors beyond our control such as traffic and weather conditions. Your Tour Guide will confirm operation times with you whilst on-tour and can answer any further questions you may have.
Start your morning with a spectacular game drive in Chobe National Park. Botswana's first national park – and also its most biologically diverse – Chobe has one of the greatest concentrations of game in all of Africa, and is particularly well-known for its large herds of elephants and Cape buffalo.
After an unforgettable start to the day, return to the lodge for a late breakfast and some relaxation time until our boat cruise on the Chobe River starts, at around 3pm. Here we can watch elephants, hippos, crocodiles and a variety of birds, making for excellent up-close photo opportunities.
This morning we make our way across the border into Zimbabwe, and to our lodge near Hwange National Park. Over the next two days, we'll have plenty of time to explore this vast wilderness on game drives.
Hwange National Park is one of Africa's finest, with some of the best game viewing you can experience anywhere on the continent, yet fewer tourists. It's also home to many predators and endangered species plus varied birdlife.
On arrival, we'll visit the Painted Dog Conservation Centre to witness the work that is being done to protect this endangered species, otherwise known as the African wild dog. If time allows, you can partake in an optional game drive on the concession in the afternoon.
Revel in a whole day spent exploring the magnificent Hwange National Park on a full-day game drive. The largest natural reserve in Zimbabwe, Hwange's grasslands and woods are home to 105 mammal species, including 19 large herbivores and eight large carnivores. The Big Five can all be found here, as well as many other predators.
Today we head off to Binga, located on the south eastern shore of Lake Kariba, where we'll board a luxury houseboat for a relaxing two-night trip.
Lake Kariba is the world's largest man-made lake and reservoir by volume. It lies 1,300 kilometres upstream from the Indian Ocean, along the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. Our voyage takes us to the Sengwe River for afternoon wildlife spotting and sunset, followed by drinks and dinner onboard.
In the morning, make use of a wide range of activities available, based on your preference, whether fishing, walking or game viewing. When we return to the boat, brunch will be served while cruising to Elephant Bay, where we'll moor at one of the islands and enjoy the sandy beaches. This afternoon, watch the sun set over the sprawling lake as we relax around a campfire and enjoy a beach barbecue under the starry sky.
Today we finish our houseboat experience with a morning game viewing on Lake Kariba before cruising back to Binga. After disembarking we travel southwards to the majestic Matobo Hills, an extensive area of rolling hills that features massive granite outcrops and boulders, not to mention one of the most outstanding rock art collections in southern Africa. The national park has been given UNESCO World Heritage status and is home to both white and black rhinoceros, sable antelope and the world’s densest population of leopard. Birdlife is also prolific, and includes the highest concentration of black eagles in the world.
We spend the day in the national park, starting our morning by tracking rhino spoor – a non-invasive technique developed for identifying individual black rhino from their footprints, which hopefully leads us to some rhino sightings. In the afternoon we further explore the scenery and wildlife of the park on game drives, ending with a visit to the grave of Cecil Rhodes, a British businessman, mining magnate and politician in southern Africa, and a polarising figure locally.
We leave the Matobo Hills and drive through the savannas of Matabeleland South en route to Botswana. In the afternoon we visit the community-managed Nata Bird Sanctuary, where we'll have the opportunity to enjoy the magnificent view over the Sowa salt pan, one of three within the greater Makgadikgadi region. We arrive at our lodge in the late afternoon.
(Please note: a visit to the pans is subject to road conditions and water levels as well as time constraints.)
We leave bright and early this morning to depart for the small village of Gweta. On arrival we embark on an expedition to Ntwetwe Pan to encounter some of Botswana’s distinctive landscapes and extraordinary creatures. The wider Makgadikgadi Pan comprises three separate salt pans – Sowa (or Sua), Nxai and Ntwetwe. Together, these three pans cover some 30,000 square kilometres of north-eastern Botswana, making it the largest collection of salt pans in the world.
Ntwetwe Pan was fed by the Boteti River until it was left permanently dry following the construction of the Mopipi Dam, which provides water for the diamond mines in Orapa. The outlying fringes of the pan are lush with green grass, enticing further wildlife to the area, including large herds of wildebeest, zebra and antelope in their thousands. Needless to say, there is also a healthy number of predators such as lion, cheetah and hyena around!
We explore the area, in search of uniquely adapted desert species such as bat-eared foxes, springbuck, kori bustards, and some of the Kalahari’s most fascinating inhabitants, the meerkats. By spending quality time with these incredibly social, superbly adapted animals, we're able to see how they interact with each other and their environment. Due to an ongoing habituation programme it’s possible to get up-close and personal with these captivating creatures.
After lunch we'll have the opportunity to explore a nearby village to experience modern African village culture. Learn about the history and traditions of the Batswana people from a local guide whose knowledge has been inherited from their forefathers. Visit the local primary school, or sekolo in the local Tswana language, with its outdoor classes and meet the children; visit the kgotla – a traditional court that governs the village; and get a glimpse of rural Botswana life.
In the late afternoon we'll take a stroll with our guide through an impressive baobab grove, as he explains the local ecology, geology and the unique biology of the baobabs, which are in fact not trees but the largest succulents in the world.
Travel to Maun, a bustling safari town that is the gateway to the Okavango Delta. The name Maun is derived from the San word maung, which translates to 'the place of short reeds'. The village became the capital of the Batawana people in 1915.
The afternoon is yours to spend at leisure, perhaps relaxing next to the lodge's pool, or, if you are keen for some excitement, taking an optional scenic flight over the delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and truly glorious oasis.
After breakfast we take a drive to the mokoro station, where we will board dug-out canoes (or mokoro) and float through the thick vegetation of the Okavango Delta discovering a wealth of birds and wildlife. Unlike other deltas, the Okavango flows into the Kalahari Desert without ever reaching the coast.
After this spectacular excursion and lunch, we make our way to our camp, which is situated in a private concession within the Moremi Game Reserve. After settling into our camp, we will enjoy dinner and embark on a night game drive in the concession – a fantastic opportunity to spot some nocturnal animals that are more difficult to encounter during the day.
(Please note: there is no electricity at the camp.)
Today we head into the famous Moremi Game Reserve, known as one of the most beautiful and varied reserves in Africa, with a dense concentration of wildlife. The full day is spent in the unspoiled nature of this reserve, which covers one-third of the Okavango Delta.
(Please note: there is no electricity at the camp.)
Today you'll be transferred to the airport for your flight to Kruger National Park. On arrival, you'll enjoy a VIP meet and greet and be transferred to your premium lodge.
Kruger is one of Africa’s largest game reserves. Hundreds of mammals make their home here, as do diverse bird species such as vultures, eagles and storks. Kruger is one of the best places in Africa to spot the Big Five in one fell swoop.
Get ready for one of the most exciting days of your life. Today we'll head into Kruger National Park for a full day's game drive, spending up to seven hours out in the open spotting wildlife, and hopefully ticking off each of the Big Five.
The Kruger National Park offers a wealth of different safaris, activities and tours to make your wildlife experience nothing short of incredible. Get up-close to more than 100 mammals, not mention a variety of birdlife, in your specialised safari vehicle led by an expert guide.
Tonight, enjoy a decadent three-course dinner while you share stories and photos of your experience with your fellow explorers.
Experience a second game drive of up to seven hours in the Kruger National Park, doubling your chances of spotting any animals you missed yesterday. Keep your eyes peeled and your camera ready!
Our safari ends after breakfast. Today you'll be transferred to the airport for your homeward flight. We hope you have enjoyed your journey through Africa.
Arrive home today.
This itinerary sometimes operates in reverse (please refer to Departure Dates).
The reverse itinerary can be viewed by clicking HERE.
Deposit & Payment
Booking Process
Airfare Information
Premium Economy or Business Class upgrades
Please specify this as a 'Special Request' when completing your booking and you will be quoted for the additional fare. In the event your selection is unavailable, or that you are dissatisfied with the quote, you will be provided with a full refund.
Land Only discount
Not Available
How to extend your stay
Some customers like to enhance their holiday by extending their stay pre- and/or post-tour. If you wish to do so, please follow these steps:
Please note, a supplement of $150 per person (plus any applicable fare and tax differences) applies to deviate from the standard itinerary. We will contact you via email with a quote and proposed flight itinerary, and then proceed with collecting the additional payment required to confirm your request.
Cape Town Extension
4 night Cape Town extension (post tour) - $1,499pp twin share ($1749 single share)
Includes:
Click HERE to view extension itinerary.
The $150pp extension supplement does not apply if selecting this option.
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour, adding a stopover package en-route or booking a tour extension. On this tour you can choose from the following options:
Airport chauffeur
Take the hassle out of getting to the airport with private chauffeur transfers to and from your home airport. Your personal chauffeur will meet and greet you, attend to your luggage and drive you to your destination in a luxury vehicle.
Additional surcharges may apply depending on pick-up time, tolls and government levies.
Airport Chauffeur can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add this service, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance.
Pre and post tour accommodation (deviating from group flights forfeits your group airport transfers)
or
Arrival and departure airport transfers
Your transfer may be shared with other Inspiring Vacations customers.
Please specify in the 'Special Request' field when making your purchase your preferred travel arrangements and if you would like our team to book additional nights' accommodation and/or airport transfers. The additional cost for these land arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.
Airport lounges
Escape busy airport terminals and relax at a cosy and catered lounge instead. Departure lounge access in Sydney $70 per person (up to 6 hours); Melbourne & Brisbane $55 per person (up to 3 hours).
Airport lounge passes can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add this service, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance.
To enhance your journey, we're offering guests the following optional activity:
Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online or speaking with your Dedicated Support Agent for assistance.
Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 65 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity.
These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers. As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorised as a “2”
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. Tipping is not compulsory on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry and is a welcome way to show your appreciation. If you feel that your guide/s and driver have done an impeccable job, you can choose to give a gratuity, but this is entirely your decision.
The suggested tipping amounts for Africa is AUD$5-7 per person per day for the guide and AUD$3 per person person day for your driver, to be paid in either local currency or USD, so you will need to convert your currency depending on your preference. Please note that this information is to be used as a guideline only and is subject to change based on the recommendations that we receive from our ground operator. Tipping is not compulsory and should be done at your discretion.
Accommodation
The accommodation for this package is a range of boutique properties and depending on the style of accommodation, are more often than not locally rated. All accommodation used is thoroughly researched by our Product experts to ensure that it is of the appropriate standard. The accommodation used throughout will be a mix of lodges, camps and hotels ranging from 3-5 star and we encourage you to review each property online to ensure you have appropriate expectations prior to travel. The accommodation listed within the itinerary is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, however, any changes are beyond our control.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $2,999 per person in addition to the twin share price.
Triple Share
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is required to protect yourself against the unexpected.
We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book comprehensive or budget cover simply by clicking HERE to arrange your policy.
Visa & Passport information
It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return to Australia.
Inspiring Vacations is not responsible for delays or missed portions of the holiday package resulting from incorrect travel documents or visas, or for denial of entry for not having the appropriate visa or valid passport.
Please note that the information provided is subject to change at any time. For the most up-to-date information, we recommend visiting https://smartraveller.gov.au/Pages/default.aspx.
Tour Documentation
Final documentation, including e-tickets and hotel details, will be provided approximately 30 days prior to travel.
Group Size
4-12 people.
Trip Style - Small Group Tour
These tours are our proudest creations. They have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. You will travel with only a maximum of 20 other guests. Enjoy choice features such as hand-picked accommodation, a sampling of the region’s best culinary delights and a range of optional activities to choose from to best suit your travel style.
Children
Children must be 5 years old or over and share a room with parents at all times. Children are the same price as adults.
Tour Length
The total length of the tour in days includes time spent inflight and is subject to change, depending on the flight schedule. Please refer to the day-by-day itinerary for the time spent in your destination(s).
Refundable deposit within 28 days of purchase:
For cancellations made within 28 days of paying the deposit on any tour, your deposit can be refunded in full or can be transferred to a new booking should you decide to change to another package or destination. Please note this change of mind guarantee does not apply for bookings made within 90 days of departure, after which time our standard 48 hour cooling off period applies. After this time, your booking becomes non-refundable.
All cancellation or change requests must be advised in writing to our Customer Service Team at support@inspiringvacations.
Refund times will vary and the timeframe of which will be advised at the time of cancellation. Any refund of deposit will be issued back to the original form of payment.
Any bookings made prior to 13 March 2020 must abide by the original payment term conditions.
Transferrable second installment up until 90 days before scheduled departure:
Following the second installment payment and up until 90 days before your departure only, should you wish to postpone your travel or transfer to another package, we can provide you with a credit note of the current balance paid on your booking, to be used to rebook within 18 months of the credit being issued.
Any change request must be advised in writing to our Customer Service Team at support@inspiringvacations.
Any bookings made prior to 13 March 2020 must abide by the original payment term conditions.
Please refer to our full Terms and Conditions for more details
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