7 Day Delta Chobe Trail North

DAY 1 - 2

Destination: Ghanzi

Situated 300 kilometres southwest of Maun and just north of the Trans-Kalahari highway, which runs from Lobatse in Botswana to Walvis Bay in Namibia, the small town of Ghanzi is sometimes referred to as the 'Capital of the Kalahari'. It serves as the administrative centre of the Ghanzi district which covers a vast area of cattle ranches and farmland in the west of Botswana. The Ghanzi area has a number of lodges that focus on cultural tourism as well as wildlife viewing - here you can experience the fascinating world of the San Bushmen as they explain to you how they forage, hunt and find water in this harsh environment.

DAY 1 - 2

Accommodation: Ghanzi Trail Blazers

Description

Ghanzi Trail Blazers caters for visitors who wish to have a genuine glimpse of a fast disappearing unique and ancient culture. It offers a number of activities to interact with the San Bushman, and to discover how they survived in the Kalahari. Ghanzi Trail Blazers is located approximately 5.6 km away from the main road, far enough away to capture the real African bushveldt.

Day 1

GHANZI TRAIL BLAZERS • GHANZI

Day Notes

After meeting your guides, we travel east and make our way to neighbouring Botswana and the Kalahari Desert. Starkly different to the Namib Desert after which Namibia is named, the Kalahari is no less dramatic and covers over 900 000 square kilometres. The San people have long been associated with this harsh environment and tonight we enjoy a dance evening that provides an insight into their culture of song, dance and story-telling. (LD) Camping: Campsite with Shared Ablutions

Included

Included Highlight: San Tribal Dance in Evening

DAY 2 - 4

Destination: Maun

Set on the banks of the beautiful Thamalakane River in northern Botswana, Maun is the third-largest town in this spectacularly scenic southern African country. Maun is the starting point for most expeditions into the Okavango Delta and as a result, has developed into a bustling metropolis that is considered Botswana’s tourism capital. Area attractions include a renowned riverboat that offers cruises up and down the Thamalakane River; the forest groves of the Maun Game Reserve; and Moremi Game Reserve, home to hippos, lions and rhinos. Maun also serves as the jumping-off point for many safaris and air charters as well as offering private 4x4 rentals. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Nhabe Museum exhibiting the local history, art and culture of the Ngamiland region.

DAY 2 - 4

Accommodation: Sedia Riverside Hotel

Description

Sedia Riverside Hotel has been designed to be in harmony with nature, built between the natural vegetation associated with its riverine open woodland setting. The abundance of trees, plants and accompanying undergrowth sustain the many species of smaller mammals and reptiles but the property is particularly special to birders as there is an abundance of species that reside around the property. It is only a short 5min drive away from Maun International Airport. At the Sedia you can relax and unwind whilst enjoying swift personalized service at the same time. There is a meet and greet/lounge area at reception, restaurant, terrace bar with TV and outdoor dining area. The large swimming pool is surrounded by a raised teak deck and shaded by an enormous jacaranda tree, where you can enjoy meals and refreshments. There is a choice of accommodation featuring twenty-four rooms and ten cottages. All of the rooms/cottages have close-by parking spaces which allow for unpacking and repacking before your onward journey. An en-suite bathroom, air-conditioning, super king-sized beds, ceiling fans, LCD TV’s with DSTV hotel package satellite channels, a fridge and tea/coffee station are standard. Complementary Wi-Fi is available in the public areas.

Property Facilities

24-hour Security, Activity Desk, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Conference Centre, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Meal on Request, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa

Room Facilities

Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Laundry Facilities, Mosquito Nets, Safe, Satellite / Cable Television, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Television

Your Stay

2 Nights Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

Experiences

Day 2 - 3

SEDIA RIVERSIDE HOTEL • MAUN

Day Notes

Before departing Ghanzi we will enjoy an informative guided walk with the San community. After our walk, we head towards Maun, where upon arrival in Maun this afternoon, you will have the opportunity to go on an optional scenic flight over the Delta (time and weather permitting). This evening our guide will prepare us on what to expect on our full day excursion into the Okavango Delta. Those guests who have pre-purchased the upgrade package – will be transferred into the Delta upon arrival in Maun and will re-join the group on the morning of day 17. Please speak to your consultant for your programme of your Okavango Delta Excursion. Day 3: The most rewarding and enjoyable way to explore and experience the beauty and serenity of this intricate system of lily covered channels and lagoons, is by mokoro. Heading out early, we will be transferred by safari vehicle to the poling station (approximately 1 hour transfer) where we will meet the polers who will be escorting us into the Delta. The polers will steer us through the serene area of narrow, reed lined channels which open out onto beautiful lagoons. Reaching one of the many islands, a nature walk may be taken with your poler. After the walk, we return by mokoro through the channels back to the poling station. While the mokoro trail is not primarily a game viewing activity, a variety of game may be spotted in this pristine wilderness area, including elephant, giraffe, kudu, impala and zebra. (BD/BLD) Campsite: Campsite with Shared Ablutions

Included

Included Highlight: San Guided Walk, Okavango Delta Day Excursion

DAY 4 - 5

Destination: Nata

Situated 180 kilometres north of Francistown, the small village of Nata is a popular stopover between Maun and Kasane along the ‘game drive route’ (there is often a chance to catch a glimpse of wildlife along the way). The unique surrounding landscapes feature white sand, tall termite mounds, and Mokolwane palm trees. The Nata Sanctuary is a particular highlight for avid bird watchers, where lucky visitors can be rewarded with large flocks of Flamingos and Pelicans, which breed here each year. The town is also a perfect base for exploring the legendary and spectacular Makgadikgadi Pans, where quad biking and four-wheel-drive tours can be enjoyed.

DAY 4 - 5

Accommodation: Nata Lodge

Description

An oasis set among the Mokolwane palms on the edge of the pans. It is ideally situated close to the entrance to the Nata Sanctuary and is just off the main road, 10 km from Nata village. This is the junction to the Okavango, Chobe and Francistown areas. The Nata River delta feeds the Sua Pan in the Nata sanctuary and forms the breeding ground for a host of water birds including pelicans and flamingo in their thousands, transforming the shore line into a pink haze blending into the western sky. Nata Lodge offers guided tours in open safari vehicles into the sanctuary, not to be missed.

Your Stay

1 Night Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

Experiences

Day 4

NATA LODGE • NATA

Day Notes

Leaving Maun behind us this morning (and re-uniting with those that chose the upgrade package) we make our way towards the town of Nata. We will spend most of the day in our truck as we journey across the northern reaches of the Makgadikgadi Pans. Our activity package will afford us the opportunity to enjoy an afternoon guided game drive to the Nata Sanctuary, which forms the breeding ground for a host of water birds including pelicans and flamingo in their thousands. (BLD) Camping: Campsite with Shared Ablutions

Included

Activity Package: Makgadikgadi Salt Pans (Nata Sanctuary)

DAY 5 - 6

Destination: Kasane

Tucked away in the northeastern corner of Botswana, on the banks of the famous Chobe River, the scenic little town of Kasane rests on the doorstep of the spectacular Chobe National Park. There are no boundary fences separating the village from the park and game such as elephant and hippo are often spotted roaming around the town. If on the lookout for elusive game, pay a visit to the Sedudu Valley Road, where large dead trees provide temporary homes for leopards. Within Kasane, an ancient baobab tree stands on display, once serving as a local prison. Visitors can look forward to a multitude of activities including: enjoying a game drive through the park, taking a sunset cruise down the Chobe River, visiting a local village or jumping on a day trip to the breathtaking Victoria Falls.

DAY 5 - 6

Accommodation: Thebe River Lodge and Campsite

Description

Thebe River Safaris is ideally situated for visitors to Chobe National Park and Chobe River region in Northern Botswana. The lodge and camp overlooks the placid Chobe River and echo's the surrounding bush with a rustic design. Thebe River Safaris is 12 km from the Kazungula border and 5 km from the Chobe Park entrance. There is a restaurant and bar providing welcome food and drinks and visitors can enjoy the sparkling swimming pool and free Wi-Fi. Available activities include game drives, boat cruises, overnight safari excursions and Victoria Falls day trips.

Property Facilities

24-hour Security, Bar, Barbeque Facilities, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking

Room Facilities

Air Conditioning, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Laundry Service (Available), Mosquito Nets, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Wheelchair Friendly

Your Stay

1 Night Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

Information

7 Days / 6 Nights Group Size4-24

Trip Summary

START DATE	ACCOMMODATION	DESTINATION	BASIS	NIGHTS
Day 1	AGhanzi Trail Blazers	Ghanzi	FB	1 Night
Day 2	BSedia Riverside Hotel	Maun	FB	2 Nights
Day 4	CNata Lodge	Nata	FB	1 Night
Day 5	DThebe River Lodge and Campsite	Kasane	D,B&B	1 Night
Day 6	EShearwater Explorers Village	Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)	B&B	1 Night

Key

FB: Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

D,B&B: Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

B&B: Bed and Breakfast

A

B

C

D

E

Use two fingers to move the map

Use ctrl + scroll to zoom the map

Self Drive

519.81 km

5 hours 42 minutes

A

Ghanzi Trail Blazers

Lodge • 1 Night

Self Drive

310.72 km

3 hours 32 minutes

B

Sedia Riverside Hotel

Hotel • 2 Nights

Self Drive

318.46 km

3 hours 36 minutes

C

Nata Lodge

Lodge • 1 Night

Self Drive

315.17 km

3 hours 49 minutes

D

Thebe River Lodge and Campsite

Lodge • 1 Night

Self Drive

82.12 km

1 hour 8 minutes

E

Shearwater Explorers Village

Lodge • 1 Night

Self Drive

1.28 km

4 minutes

CLOSE

RECENTRE

Pricing

Price on request

Includes

Meals (Breakfast x 6 / Lunch x 3 / Dinner x 5) (unless otherwise specified, all meals are prepared and served at the safari truck) / accommodation / qualified crew / transport in the safari truck / included highlights as per the itinerary / entrance fees to National Parks.

Excludes

All items of a personal nature, alcohol, snacks/drinks/additional meals, souvenirs, sleeping bags, tips and optional activities (see list for an indication of prices); flights; visas; pre/post accommodation 3% booking card fee etc

Destination

Ghanzi

DAY 1 - 2

Situated 300 kilometres southwest of Maun and just north of the Trans-Kalahari highway, which runs from Lobatse in Botswana to Walvis Bay in Namibia, the small town of Ghanzi is sometimes referred to as the 'Capital of the Kalahari'. It serves as the administrative centre of the Ghanzi district which covers a vast area of cattle ranches and farmland in the west of Botswana. The Ghanzi area has a number of lodges that focus on cultural tourism as well as wildlife viewing - here you can experience the fascinating world of the San Bushmen as they explain to you how they forage, hunt and find water in this harsh environment.

Accommodation

Ghanzi Trail Blazers

DAY 1 - 2

•

GHANZI

Your Stay

1 Night Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

Experiences

Day 1

GHANZI TRAIL BLAZERS • GHANZI

Day Notes

After meeting your guides, we travel east and make our way to neighbouring Botswana and the Kalahari Desert. Starkly different to the Namib Desert after which Namibia is named, the Kalahari is no less dramatic and covers over 900 000 square kilometres. The San people have long been associated with this harsh environment and tonight we enjoy a dance evening that provides an insight into their culture of song, dance and story-telling. (LD) Camping: Campsite with Shared Ablutions

Included

Included Highlight: San Tribal Dance in Evening

Self Drive from Windhoek City to Ghanzi Trail Blazers

Check-in to Ghanzi Trail Blazers

Destination

Maun

DAY 2 - 4

Set on the banks of the beautiful Thamalakane River in northern Botswana, Maun is the third-largest town in this spectacularly scenic southern African country. Maun is the starting point for most expeditions into the Okavango Delta and as a result, has developed into a bustling metropolis that is considered Botswana’s tourism capital. Area attractions include a renowned riverboat that offers cruises up and down the Thamalakane River; the forest groves of the Maun Game Reserve; and Moremi Game Reserve, home to hippos, lions and rhinos. Maun also serves as the jumping-off point for many safaris and air charters as well as offering private 4x4 rentals. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Nhabe Museum exhibiting the local history, art and culture of the Ngamiland region.

Accommodation

Sedia Riverside Hotel

DAY 2 - 4

•

MAUN

Your Stay

2 Nights Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

Experiences

Day 2 - 3

SEDIA RIVERSIDE HOTEL • MAUN

Day Notes

Before departing Ghanzi we will enjoy an informative guided walk with the San community. After our walk, we head towards Maun, where upon arrival in Maun this afternoon, you will have the opportunity to go on an optional scenic flight over the Delta (time and weather permitting). This evening our guide will prepare us on what to expect on our full day excursion into the Okavango Delta. Those guests who have pre-purchased the upgrade package – will be transferred into the Delta upon arrival in Maun and will re-join the group on the morning of day 17. Please speak to your consultant for your programme of your Okavango Delta Excursion. Day 3: The most rewarding and enjoyable way to explore and experience the beauty and serenity of this intricate system of lily covered channels and lagoons, is by mokoro. Heading out early, we will be transferred by safari vehicle to the poling station (approximately 1 hour transfer) where we will meet the polers who will be escorting us into the Delta. The polers will steer us through the serene area of narrow, reed lined channels which open out onto beautiful lagoons. Reaching one of the many islands, a nature walk may be taken with your poler. After the walk, we return by mokoro through the channels back to the poling station. While the mokoro trail is not primarily a game viewing activity, a variety of game may be spotted in this pristine wilderness area, including elephant, giraffe, kudu, impala and zebra. (BD/BLD) Campsite: Campsite with Shared Ablutions

Included

Included Highlight: San Guided Walk, Okavango Delta Day Excursion

Self Drive from Ghanzi Trail Blazers to Sedia Riverside Hotel

Stay at Sedia Riverside Hotel

Destination

Nata

DAY 4 - 5

Situated 180 kilometres north of Francistown, the small village of Nata is a popular stopover between Maun and Kasane along the ‘game drive route’ (there is often a chance to catch a glimpse of wildlife along the way). The unique surrounding landscapes feature white sand, tall termite mounds, and Mokolwane palm trees. The Nata Sanctuary is a particular highlight for avid bird watchers, where lucky visitors can be rewarded with large flocks of Flamingos and Pelicans, which breed here each year. The town is also a perfect base for exploring the legendary and spectacular Makgadikgadi Pans, where quad biking and four-wheel-drive tours can be enjoyed.

Accommodation

Nata Lodge

DAY 4 - 5

•

NATA

Your Stay

1 Night Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

Experiences

Day 4

NATA LODGE • NATA

Day Notes

Leaving Maun behind us this morning (and re-uniting with those that chose the upgrade package) we make our way towards the town of Nata. We will spend most of the day in our truck as we journey across the northern reaches of the Makgadikgadi Pans. Our activity package will afford us the opportunity to enjoy an afternoon guided game drive to the Nata Sanctuary, which forms the breeding ground for a host of water birds including pelicans and flamingo in their thousands. (BLD) Camping: Campsite with Shared Ablutions

Included

Activity Package: Makgadikgadi Salt Pans (Nata Sanctuary)

Check-out from Sedia Riverside Hotel

Self Drive from Sedia Riverside Hotel to Nata Lodge

Check-in to Nata Lodge

Destination

Kasane

DAY 5 - 6

Tucked away in the northeastern corner of Botswana, on the banks of the famous Chobe River, the scenic little town of Kasane rests on the doorstep of the spectacular Chobe National Park. There are no boundary fences separating the village from the park and game such as elephant and hippo are often spotted roaming around the town. If on the lookout for elusive game, pay a visit to the Sedudu Valley Road, where large dead trees provide temporary homes for leopards. Within Kasane, an ancient baobab tree stands on display, once serving as a local prison. Visitors can look forward to a multitude of activities including: enjoying a game drive through the park, taking a sunset cruise down the Chobe River, visiting a local village or jumping on a day trip to the breathtaking Victoria Falls.

Accommodation

Thebe River Lodge and Campsite

DAY 5 - 6

•

KASANE

Your Stay

1 Night Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

Experiences

Day 5

THEBE RIVER LODGE AND CAMPSITE • KASANE

Day Notes

We rise early this morning as we continue north to our camp on the banks of the Chobe River. This afternoon is set aside for exploring the Chobe National Park. We begin our exploration in 4x4 vehicles, which allows us an up close and personal experience with the many elephants that frequent the river in the afternoons. The afternoon ends with a leisurely boat cruise and a meal served around the campfire. (BD) Camping: Campsite with Shared Ablutions

Included

Activity package: Chobe National Park Game Drive and Chobe National Park Boat Cruise

DAY 6 - 7

Destination: Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls is one of the world’s most impressive waterfalls. It is set on the magnificent Zambezi River which creates the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. These spectacular falls can be easily visited and viewed from the Zimbabwean side. Considered to be the world’s widest waterfalls, Victoria Falls measures an impressive 1708 metres in width. The small town of Victoria Falls, which lies adjacent to the waterfalls, serves as a great base from which to explore the many attractions this area of Zimbabwe has to offer. The surrounding area provides a wide range of adrenalin-filled activities for adventure lovers. Visitors can look forward to an array of wonderful activities including: scenic flights, micro lighting, white water rafting, bungee jumping, kayaking, and once-in-a-lifetime expeditions into the incredible Chobe National Park.

DAY 6 - 7

Accommodation: Shearwater Explorers Village

Description

Shearwater Explorers Village is a lodge located in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, close to Victoria Falls and Curio Shops and Creature World. Surrounded by indigenous vegetation and wildlife, the accommodation features a range of standard and deluxe rooms as well as camping facilities. Rooms are equipped with air conditioning, a mosquito net, an en-suite bathroom and Wi-Fi. The camp facilities feature communal ablutions, showers and a kitchen area. Guests may enjoy a tasty meal and refreshing drink at the on-site restaurant.

Property Facilities

24-hour Security, Activity Desk, Bar, Barbeque Facilities, Battery Charging Facilities, Gym (nearby), Internet Access (Complimentary), Malaria Free, Meal on Request, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, TV Room

Room Facilities

Air Conditioning, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, En-Suite, Hair Dryer, Heater, Iron / Ironing Board, Laundry Facilities, Safe, Shower, Verandah, Wheelchair Friendly

Your Stay

1 Night Bed and Breakfast

Day 6

Experiences: SHEARWATER EXPLORERS VILLAGE • VICTORIA FALLS (ZIMBABWE)

Day Notes

With the memories of our wildlife encounters firmly etched in our minds, we cross the border into Zimbabwe this morning and travel the short distance to Victoria Falls. Today you will have the opportunity to visit the spectacular Victoria Falls at your leisure, also known by the local name of “Mosi-oa Tunya” (the smoke that thunders). While much of today is dedicated to viewing the mighty Zambezi River as it drops into the Batoka Gorge below, the bustling adventure town of Victoria Falls also offers a range of optional activities for those wanting a dose of adrenaline in the afternoon. For the more relaxed traveller there are craft markets and coffee shops on offer as well. (B) Accommodation: Room with en-suite bathroom

Victoria Falls - The Falls

ACTIVITY • OPTIONAL

One of the original natural wonders of the world, the Victoria Falls is breathtaking and not suprisingly a World Heritage Site. Known locally as ‘The Smoke that Thunders’ this spectacle is accessible from both Zambia and Zimbabwe. Unlike other waterfalls, Victoria Falls has a natural catwalk across from the falls which provides spectacular viewing.

Day 7

End of Itinerary

Day Notes

Your tour comes to an end after breakfast and with the many activities on offer in Victoria Falls, today is the perfect day for the adventure that most suits your style. Whether rafting the mighty Zambezi River or enjoying a flight over the Falls, this is your day to enjoy the many attractions on offer in Victoria Falls. (B) Accommodation: Own Arrangements

Included and Excluded

Tour Plan

Destination: Ghanzi

Accommodation: Ghanzi Trail Blazers

Description

Day 1

GHANZI TRAIL BLAZERS • GHANZI

Day Notes

Included

Destination: Maun

Accommodation: Sedia Riverside Hotel

Description

Property Facilities

Room Facilities

Your Stay

Experiences

Day 2 - 3

SEDIA RIVERSIDE HOTEL • MAUN

Day Notes

Included

Destination: Nata

Accommodation: Nata Lodge

Description

Your Stay

Experiences

Day 4

NATA LODGE • NATA

Day Notes

Included

Destination: Kasane

Accommodation: Thebe River Lodge and Campsite

Description

Property Facilities

Room Facilities

Your Stay

Information

Trip Summary

START DATE

ACCOMMODATION

DESTINATION

BASIS

NIGHTS

Key

CLOSE

RECENTRE

Pricing

Includes

Excludes

Destination

Ghanzi

DAY 1 - 2

GALLERY

MAP

Accommodation

Ghanzi Trail Blazers

•

Your Stay

GALLERY

INFORMATION

Experiences

Day 1

GHANZI TRAIL BLAZERS • GHANZI

Day Notes

Included

Destination

Maun

DAY 2 - 4

GALLERY

MAP

Accommodation

Sedia Riverside Hotel

•

Your Stay

GALLERY

ROOMS

INFORMATION

Experiences

Day 2 - 3

SEDIA RIVERSIDE HOTEL • MAUN