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.
✓ Small group of 12 people max
✓ Return international airfares with a full-service airline
✓ All internal Africa airfares
✓ All airport transfers
✓ 17 nights comfortable hotel and lodge accommodation
✓ Daily breakfast, 11 lunches and 8 dinners
✓ Incredible sightseeing and game drives
✓ Fully escorted tour with English-speaking guide throughout
✓ The services of professional safari guides
✓ Dedicated 4×4 safari vehicle transportation
✓ Includes 3 days in Kruger National Park
✓ Add on a Cape Town extension
✓ Available in reverse
✓ 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.
Today begins your adventure of a lifetime! Board your flight to depart Australia and begin your African safari.
On arrival into Victoria Falls, you will be warmly greeted by one of our representatives and transferred to your beautiful hotel on the banks of the Zambezi River. After check in, the rest of the day may be spent at leisure.
Later in the afternoon we’ll enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise on the mighty Zambezi, basking in the sun's afterglow.
Enjoy this natural wonder from the most incredible vantage point in the air. The flight is about 13-15 minutes and will get you up close to the majesty of these falls.
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.
After breakfast this morning you will have some free time to explore the spectacular Victoria Falls, known by the local Kololo tribe as Mosi-oa-Tunya, or 'the smoke that thunders'. Later this morning we will depart for the town of Kasane in Botswana, the gateway to the Chobe National Park. Chobe – the second largest national park in Botswana, covering a staggering 10,566 square kilometres – has one of the greatest concentrations of elephant found on the African continent.
Upon arrival, the afternoon is at leisure: partake in the optional activities offered by your lodge or relax by the pool.
We’ll be rising early this morning for a sunrise game drive through the Chobe National Park. This is Botswana's first national park, and also its most biologically diverse. Known for its large herds of elephants and Cape buffalo it has one of the greatest concentrations of game in all of Africa. Gorge on the spectacular vistas and get up close to the local wildlife on your drive.
After an unforgettable start to the day we’ll return to the lodge for a late breakfast and some relaxation time until our boat cruise on the Chobe River later in the afternoon. Drifiting along this serene waterway, untouched by human development, is a truly unforgettable experience and one of the best ways to view the wildlife and the sunset. Here we can watch elephants, hippos, crocodiles and a variety of birds in their natural habitat, making for excellent up-close photo opportunities.
Today we leave Botswana, driving through Chobe National Park before crossing over into Namibia and driving through the Caprivi Strip to our luxury camp on the banks of the Kwando River.
Upon arrival the rest of the afternoon is yours to do as you please. There are a number of optional activities offered by our camp or you may sit back and relax, taking in the sights and sounds of the riverscape.
Today we depart from our camp on the Caprivi in Namibia for Etsha 13, on the western border of the Okavango Delta in Botswana. The Etsha villages are a series of 13 communities stretching some 20km along the west side of the Okavango Delta. Unlike other deltas, it flows into the Kalahari Desert without reaching the coast, which makes it very unique.
Upon arrival at camp we will prepare for our game drive though the Mahango National Park, which is rich in fauna and flora. In the park we’ll have the chance of spotting game such as sable and roan antelope, elephants, hippos, buffalos, and much more. For bird watchers the Mahango National Park offers more than 420 different bird species.
Following this we will enjoy a delicious dinner back at camp with the rest of the group.
Following breakfast this morning we’ll spend the day exploring the picturesque lagoon surrounding our camp. Guma Lagoon is the largest lagoon in the Okavango panhandle and a haven for fishermen and bird watchers. We’ll float along this stunning network of water pathways through thick vegetation in mokoros (traditional dugout canoes), discovering a variety of birds and wildlife. We’ll be stopping at a beautiful secluded island to take a guided walk in hope of spotting elephants, waterbuck antelopes and other animals living in this wetland paradise.
Today we depart Botswana once again and make our way back into Namibia, heading along the Caprivi to the city of Rundu.
Upon arrival at Kaisosi River Lodge, just outside the city, we’ll spend a relaxing afternoon lounging on the banks of the Okavango River. You are welcome to participate in some optional activities, such as a visit to the Mbunza Living Museum (a sustainable project that offers insights into traditional, pre-colonial culture in Namibia), or a sunset cruise, are available through the lodge. Alternatively, you may choose to just relax by the pool with a sundowner listening to the sounds of Mother Nature.
Today we head to the Etosha National Park in northwestern Namibia. The next three days will be filled with exciting game drives, and the opportunity to spot lions, leopards, elephant, rhino, cheetah, giraffe, zebra and the numerous different types of antelope the park has to offer.
Our nights will be spent at the floodlit waterholes, encountering the park's nocturnal animals as they come to drink. It presents a unique chance to see the animals you normally wouldn’t find by day. Etosha Game Park was declared a National Park in 1907 and is home to approximately 114 mammal species, 340 bird species, 110 reptile species, 16 amphibian species and, surprisingly, one species of fish.
This morning, following breakfast, we’ll head into Etosha National Park for another phenomenal day of game driving in the hopes of spotting the elusive animals we perhaps haven’t encountered yet. Mealtimes will be spent swapping stories and comparing photographs of the incredible wildlife you’ve witnessed so far.
Today marks our final day of game driving in Etosha National Park. Keep your eyes peeled for your favourite animals, or those that you have yet to see.
This morning we leave the wild animals of Etosha behind us and move onto the spectacular scenery of Damaraland. Damaraland is a huge, ruggedly beautiful region and one of the most scenic areas in all of Namibia.
In the afternoon, we’ll have the opportunity to explore a Himba village. This will be a journey of cultural exchange, learning and understanding, as you meet one of the last semi-nomadic tribes in the country, the Himba.
Our final destination for the day will be the village of Kamanjab, where we will spend the evening at leisure.
After our enlightening cultural experience in Kamanjab we’ll be heading southwards to Omaruru. Once a mission station, this settlement has great historic significance and has evolved into an artistic hub for local craftsmen and small industries. Here you’ll be able to admire some of the local talent and pick up some fantastic souvenirs to take home with you. We'll also be making a stop at a local distillery and small wine cellar to taste some of the home-grown produce before arriving at our accommodation in the afternoon, the quaint Omaruru Guesthouse.
After arrival, the rest of the evening is free to spend as you wish.
Today, we move westwards across the enchanting desert plains towards Spitzkoppe, an arresting group of granite peaks with beautifully vivid colours, which is known as the 'Matterhorn of Namibia'. Here we’ll enjoy a magical walk to view the ancient artwork painted onto the rock by the San people.
Following this, we’ll continue on towards the coast. A short while later we’ll arrive in the charming seaside city of Swakopmund, an oasis set between the vast expanse of the Namib desert and the Atlantic Ocean. Here, you’ll find gorgeous sandy beaches and colonial landmarks, include the Swakopmund Lighthouse and the 'Mole', an old sea wall.
This morning we’ll follow the barren Skeleton Coast out of Swakopmund to visit Cape Cross, home to one of the largest breeding colonies of the Cape fur seal on the planet. These seals are endemic to Southern Africa and here you’ll get to witness them basking in the sun and diving through the waves.
Back in Swakopmund, the afternoon can be spent partaking in some optional activities, or alternatively just soaking up the atmosphere. Enjoy exploring this quaint little German town and walking along its stunning beaches.
Get a glimpse of township life for 3-4 hours on an afternoon tour from Swakopmund. Visit the Damara, Herero and Ovambo sectors of the township, meet the locals and experience the local Namibian traditional cuisine and culture of these tribes. Includes: Transfers, traditional meal and selected drinks (departure time 15h00)
This tour takes you eastwards from Swakopmund into the Namib Desert along the banks of the Swakop River. The river has carved out deep canyons into the granite rock, producing this spectacular sight known as the moon landscape. This 3-4 hour tour focuses on geology, desert adapted plant life (like the oldest living plant Welwitschia mirabilis) and animals, big and small. Includes: Transfers, soft drinks (Afternoon only)
Upon arrival in Nelspruit, you will be greeted by a representative of your lodge and transferred to your luxury accommodation for the next four nights.
Kruger is famous for its high density of wild animals, including the Big Five (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffalos), but hundreds of other mammals have also made their home here. Get some rest tonight ahead of your early morning game drive tomorrow.
Accommodation note: you will be staying at the Royal Kruger Lodge, or Maqueda Lodge if unavailable.
Today will start with an early morning game drive in the world renowned Kruger National Park. Ensure you bring your camera along, as there will be ample opportunity to spot the Big Five in their natural habitat. The abundance of animal species here promsies the experience of a lifetime. Get up-close to the animals in your specialised safari vehicle, led by an expert guide. Later this evening, enjoy a lavish three-course dinner while swapping stories of your animal encounters earlier that day.
Rise early again today for your second game drive through Kruger National Park and your final day on this fantastic safari adventure. Keep your eyes peeled for any animals you missed yesterday or hope to spot again, and soak up the beauty of the endless grasslands and plains one last time.
Your memorable journey ends after one last delicious breakfast this morning. At the appropriate time you will be transferred to the airport to board your flight home.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this extraordinary adventure.
Arrive home today.
Some dates operate in reverse. Please refer to the departure date list. Please click here for the reverse itinerary.
Deposits & Payment
Booking Process
Airfare Information
Full-service airline used will be Emirates Airlines, Etihad Airlines, Singapore Airlines, South African Airlines, Qatar Airlines, Qantas or similar
Flights are not direct and include a maximum of two connections
If you would like to travel with a preferred airline, please ensure you mention this in the special request field. Please note that appropriate fare and tax difference will be applicable in order to confirm your request.
Adelaide customers will likely require two stops in either direction
All tickets will include 20 kilos checked baggage per person, along with 7 kilos of hand luggage.
Despite the airlines baggage allowance, we recommend travelling with 20 kilos per person due to restrictions with internal flights (where applicable), as well as coach and train transportation. Also, you will be responsible for handling your luggage at all times as the services of porters is not included. If travelling over this amount, you will be liable for any excess baggage fees enforced by the airline, payable direct.
Once ticketed, flights are non-refundable; any changes will be subject to the airline rules and change fees
Full names as per passport (including all middle names) are required
Any airline schedule changes or cancellations are beyond our control
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
A reduction of $1,800 per person applies if you wish to arrange your own airfares. Please note internal airfares are also not included. To purchase a land-only fare, please select this option in the booking process under 'Departure City'.
Please note, if you are not arriving or departing as per the group itinerary, airport transfers are also no longer included. If you would like us to arrange this service for you, please refer to the ‘Extra services’ section for pricing.
Qantas Upgrade
If you would prefer to fly with Qantas, please mention this in the 'Special Request' field when completing your purchase. Our supplier will make contact with you directly to confirm your flight preference and any surcharge involved to upgrade to Qantas will be invoiced to you directly by Inspiring Vacations.
5-Day Cape Town Extension (post-tour)
Includes:
Internal airfares
Return airport transfers
4 nights accommodation at the Winchester Mansions Hotel and Spa with breakfast daily (from FEB to OCT 2020, accommodation will be at the President Hotel)
Day tours (wine tram xcursion, Cape Peninsula, Afrogem jewellers, Table Mountain cable car)
Cost - $1,700 per person twin-share ($2,249 single)
To purchase please select this option under 'Upgrade options'. The $150 per person extension supplement does not apply when selecting this option.
Extending Your Stay
Some customers like to enhance their holiday by extending their stay pre- and/or post-tour or including a stopover in another destination. If you wish to do so, please follow these steps:
By choosing to extend your stay, please note that a supplement of $150 per person, plus applicable fare and tax differences will apply. 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.
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)
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.
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 $1,800 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 customer’s responsibility to become familiar with the visa requirements for their intended destination and to ensure they have the appropriate visa documentation, whether obtained before departure or on arrival.
It is also the traveller’s responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from your 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 charged 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
