The Grand Southern Safari tour

Day 1: Cape Town to the Cederberg
The grand southern safari starts in the Cape Town city centre, where we'll all gather before heading off towards the Cederberg region of the Western Cape, which boasts spectacular mountain ranges and orange farms.
The Cederberg is also the home of the Rooibos bush, which is indigenous to the slopes of the Cederberg mountains. The leaves of this tree are used to make a herbal beverage which has international acclaim as a healthy and refreshing option to regular tea.
We'll have dinner together at our accommodation in Citrusdal for the evening, which offers a great opportunity to get acquainted with the rest of the travelling group whilst enjoying some South African hospitality.
Note: The tour is available either based mainly on camping in traditional 2-person tents (which we provide together with camp beds), or as an upgraded 'accommodated' version where you sleep in lodges, hotels, or permanent camps (with proper beds & facilities). Details of each night's stay are given in the Facilities section of the daily itinerary. Pricing shown is based on camping - please contact us for prices to upgrade to the accommodated level.
Route: Cape Town to Citrusdal
Included Highlight: Traditional Dinner
Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions
Facilities - Accommodated: Rooms with en-suite bathrooms
OVERNIGHT: Marcuskraal
MEALS: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Namaqualand to the Gariep River
From Citrusdal, we make our way to Namaqualand, which provides the first view of the desert vistas which will be a regular occurrence in the days ahead. We travel north, stopping in Springbok to refuel before we make our way to our camp located on the banks of the Orange River - the longest river in Southern Africa.
If you are lucky enough to be travelling during the South African spring months between July to September - you will be greeted with colourful expanses of wildflowers that are unique to the region.
Route: Citrusdal to Orange River
Included Highlight: Spring Wild Flowers (July – September)
Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions
Facilities - Accommodated: Rooms with en-suite bathrooms
OVERNIGHT: =Felix Unite Cabanas
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3:Namibia: Gariep (Orange River) to the Fish River Canyon
Though originally called Gariep, meaning "river" in the local KhoeKhoe language, the Orange River later took its name from the Dutch Royal House. Today, you can experience the river firsthand on an optional morning canoe trip. After lunch, we leave the Orange River and travel inland to the Fish River Canyon, Namibia's longest river and Africa's largest canyon. We'll drive to the canyon's edge for a leisurely walk along the rim. Later, we'll head west towards Keetmanshoop for our overnight stay.

Route: Orange/Gariep River to Keetmanshoop
Included Highlight: Scenic walk along the rim of Fish River Canyon
Optional Activity: Canoe on the Orange River
Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions
Facilities - Accommodated: Rooms with en-suite bathrooms
OVERNIGHT: Schutzenhaus Guesthouse
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Quiver Tree Forest, Giants Playground, Namib-Naukluft National Park
This morning, we'll explore the Quiver Tree Forest and The Giants Playground, a maze-like formation of massive dolerite boulders stacked upon each other. Today's journey takes us deeper into the Namib Desert, through long, dusty roads and sparsely populated farmlands, offering a glimpse into the vastness of rural Namibia. The landscape gradually transforms from eastern grasslands to the red dunes of the west, showcasing the diverse faces of this desert nation. Our next two nights will be spent near the dune fields, where the unique calls of the elusive Barking Gecko lull us to sleep.

Route: Keetmanshoop to Namib Naukluft NP Area
Included Highlight: Quiver Tree Forest, Giants Playground
Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions
Facilities - Accommodated: Rooms with en-suite bathrooms
OVERNIGHT: Hammerstein Lodge
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Namib-Naukluft National Park
Today is put aside for you to relax and recharge while taking in the landscapes of the desert. Optional activities such as self-guided walks from camp are available.

Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions
Facilities - Accommodated: Rooms with en-suite bathrooms
OVERNIGHT: Hammerstein Lodge
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Sossusvlei Dunes – Namib-Naukluft National Park
We start the day early as we spend time in the Namib-Naukluft National Park and climb up the famous Dune 45, which offers a spectacular vantage point to marvel at the changing colours of the desert.
We'll enjoy a hearty breakfast before we hop into a 4x4 to Sossusvlei & Deadvlei, where we'll explore its vast salt pans before we settle in at our campsite in the Namib-Naukluft National Park for the rest of the day.
Included Highlight: Sesriem Canyon (accommodated departures), Hike up Dune 45, 4x4 shuttle to Sossusvlei / Deadvlei
Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions
Facilities - Accommodated: Rooms with en-suite bathrooms
OVERNIGHT: Boesmans Camp
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Swakopmund
On our final day in the desert, we have the privilege of joining a local expert for an enlightening desert excursion. While b idding a reluctant farewell to the Namib, we make a stop to commemorate our crossing of the Tropic of Capricorn. Having taken in the wonders of the Namib Desert we turn west and head into the sunset to our next destination, the bustling coastal town of Swakopmund where adventure awaits along w ith a welcome touch of civilization. Upon arriving in Swakopmund , we will be presented with the opportunity to book any number of thrilling adventures available. Tonight we’ll enjoy a dinner out at a local restaurant
Route: Naukluft Area to Swakopmund
Included Highlight: Guided desert walk with local expert, Tropic of Capricorn
Facilities - Camping: Rooms with en-suite bathrooms
Facilities - Accommodated: Rooms with en-suite bathrooms
OVERNIGHT: Haus Garnison or Amanpuri
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Swakopmund
Swakopmund may be Namibia's adventure capital, but it's much more than just adrenaline filled fun. You have the day free to explore the town on your own. Be sure to visit one of its famed coffee shops and bakeries that offer a variety of German-inspired treats.
Local options: Dolphin cruise, skydiving, sandboarding, quad biking
Facilities - Camping: Rooms with en-suite bathrooms
Facilities - Accommodated: Rooms with en-suite bathrooms
OVERNIGHT: Haus Garnison or Amanpuri
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Swakopmund to Khorixas
Our exploration of the desert continues with a trip up north, where the hot desert sands meet the cold waves of the Atlantic Ocean. We’ll stop at seaside holiday town of Wlotskabaken for a photo opportunity before heading to the Lichen Fields for a viewing and talk by your guide on the Lichen Colonies. The road then continues away from the coast and takes us towards the Khorixas area where we will explore the Twyfelfontein Rock Engravings and the Petrified Forest in the Kunene Region with a local guide.

2025 note: Please not that from 2025 the visits to Twyfelfontein Rock Engravings and the Petrified Forest will be replaced with visits to Brandberg and White Lady.

Included highlight: Seal Colony at Cape Cross
Route: Swakopmund to Khorixas (via Cape Cross)
Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions
Facilities - Accommodated: Two per room with en-suite bathroom
OVERNIGHT: NWR: Khorixas
MEALS: Lunch, Dinner
EXTRAS: Single Room Supplement Accommodated (NAOVNB), Extra day in Swakopmund - pre-tour, Arrival airport transfer in Swakopmund,

Day 10: Khorixas to Etosha National Park
With vast salt pans, savanna and woodland, Etosha is one of Africa’s finest game parks. At 18 000 sq km, it is one of the biggest Parks in Southern Africa. Etosha means “great white area”, which refers to the large dried pan in the middle of the Park. We will spend the afternoon exploring the park in the Nomad Truck./p>

Route: Khorixas to Etosha National Park
Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions
Facilities - Accommodated: Two per room with en-suite bathroom
OVERNIGHT: NWR: Okuakuejo
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Etosha National Park
We start early this morning and head to Etosha National Park, one of Africa’s most famous destinations for game viewing with the sparse grasslands allowing great opportunities to see animals normally hidden in dense vegetation. We then have the afternoon to explore the edges of Etosha Pan on a game drive on our expedition vehicle as we head to our accommodation for the night. The raised height of the vehicle helps with visibility and seeing some of the abundant wildlife in the park. We’ll aim to stop at several waterholes during the way, where concentrations of game can often be seen.
Included Highlight: Afternoon game drive in the truck
Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions
Facilities - Accommodated: Two per room with en-suite bathroom
OVERNIGHT: NWR: Okaukuejo
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Etosha National Park
We have a full day on safari in Etosha today, exploring different parts of the park on the truck and searching for animals and birds we may not have seen yesterday.
Included Highlight: Morning Game drive, Afternoon Game drive
Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions
Facilities - Accommodated: Two per room with en-suite bathroom
OVERNIGHT: NWR: Namutoni
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13: Etosha to Divundu
We leave the white sands of Etosha behind and venture towards the Kavango River for our overnight stop in Divundu.
Route: Etosha National Park to Divundu
Included Highlight: Walk through Windhoek with your guide
Facilities - Accommodated: Two per room with en-suite bathroom
Facilities - Camping: Campsite with Shared Ablutions
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14: Divundu to Maun
Prior to departing for Maun, we enjoy a leisurely boat cruise on the beautiful Kavango River. We then cross the border into Botswana and head towards the gateway to the Okavango Delta, the town of Maun. We overnight in Maun before heading for our next adventure – The Okavango Delta
Route: Divundu to Maun
Included Highlight: Morning boat cruise
Facilities - Camping: 2024: Campsite with Shared Ablutions, 2025: Two per room with en-suite bathroom
Facilities - Accommodated: Two per room with en-suite bathroom
OVERNIGHT: Sedia hotel
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15: Okavango - Khwai Conservation Area
You will be separated from the truck for the next 2 nights and it is therefore important that you pack/gather your personal belongings which you may need, before we depart Maun. Please pack lightly and only take what you need for the following two nights. Today we make our way towards the Okava ngo Delta . Early risers will have the opportunity to go on an optional scenic flight over the Delta (time and weather permitting). After your optional flight, you will be collected from Maun and will be transferred to the Khwai Conservation area in smaller safari type vehicles. Our guide will prepare us on what to expect for our afternoon mokoro excursion into the Okavango Delta .
Route: Maun to Khwai Conservation area
Optional Activity: Okavango Delta scenic flight
Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions
Facilities - Accommodated: Permanent tent with en-suite bathroom
OVERNIGHT: Khwai Tented Camp
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 16: Greater Moremi Game Reserve Area
Today is a full day game drive as we spend most of our day on safari in the Moremi Game Reserve in search of the species that roam the plains. Expect some bumpy roads as we traverse this wilderness area in our 4x4 vehicles. Offering habitats from wetland, open water to the grasslands and Savannah woodland, we hope to see as many specie s of fauna and flora possible. This evening we arrive back at Khwai to share and compare all the amazing sightings while on safari
Included Highlight: Full Day Game Drive Moremi Game Reserve
Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions
Facilities - Accommodated: Permanent tent with en-suite bathroom
OVERNIGHT: Khwai Tented Camp
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 17: Nata
Today’s journey from Khwai to Nata passes the Botswanan salt pans. You will pack up camp and depart at first light on the open 4x4 safari vehicles before meeting the truck in Maun. The scenic drive from Maun to Nata showcases some of Botswana's breathtaking landscapes and the rich cultural heritage. Keep an eye open as there is always a chance of a wildlife encounter or two before reaching your overnight destination in Nata. This afternoon, after our arrival in Nata, we enjoy a guided drive to the Nata pans , which forms the breeding ground for a host of water birds including pelicans and flamingo in their thousands (birds dependant on seasonal migratory patterns)
Route: Khwai Conservation Area to Nata
Included Highlight: Afternoon pans drive
Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions
Facilities - Accommodated: Two per room with en-suite bathroom
OVERNIGHT: Thebe River Safaris
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 18: Chobe National Park
Those who have chosen to take the optional game drive in Chobe National Park will start early for their morning safari in open 4x4 vehicles. They'll return to camp for lunch before we all head out in the afternoon for a leisurely boat cruise which should afford us great views of some of the many elephants that make this park home (Chobe has some of the highest concentrations of African elephant on the planet).
Included Highlight: Chobe National Park boat cruise
Optional Activity: Chobe National Park game drive
Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions
Facilities - Accommodated: Two per room with en-suite bathroom
OVERNIGHT: Thebe River Safaris
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 19: Victoria Falls
We say goodbye to Botswana today as we cross the border into Zimbabwe and travel towards the Victoria Falls - one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and the major waterfall on the Zambezi River in Africa.
You have the day free to explore this natural wonder at your leisure. There are a range of optional adventure activities to enjoy as well if you're looking for an adrenaline rush. If you're looking to relax, there are various craft markets and coffee shops to enjoy.
Route: Kasane to Victoria Falls
Optional Activity: Victoria Falls entry fee, Zambezi Sunset Cruise
Facilities - Camping: 2024: Pre-erected dome tent with camper beds, 2025: Two per room with en-suite bathroom
Facilities - Accommodated: Two per room with en-suite bathroom
OVERNIGHT: Shearwater Explorers Village
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 20: Victoria Falls
The tour comes to an end after breakfast. With the variety of activities on offer in Victoria Falls, feel free to try some of them at your leisure.
Optional Activity: Victoria Falls entry, Zambezi Sunset Cruise, Bungee Jump, Helicopter Flights, White Water Rafting
OVERNIGHT: Own Arrangements / Post tour accommodation can be booked
MEALS: Breakfast