Victoria Falls | Zimbabwe →
Kazuma Forest Reserve | Botswana →
Khwai Concession (Private Game Reserve) | Botswana →
Okavango Delta | Botswana →
Maun | Okavango Delta | Botswana →

Victoria Falls & Botswana Responsible Travel
Chobe, Khwai & Okavango Delta 

Top Highlights

Victoria falls waterfall icon
Victoria Falls Exploration
Chobe river icon
Chobe River Safari
Mokoro river canoe icon
Okavango Delta Mokoro

Safari365 is delighted to offer this premium safari experience, highlighting boutique-style lodges for a closer connection with wildlife through low-impact activities. This journey demonstrates that purposeful travel can be accessible and affordable. Zimbabwe and Botswana boast some of Africa’s most revered wildlife, including elephants, lions, rhinos, and the elusive wild dogs. Our responsible travel itinerary ensures your adventure actively supports vital conservation efforts, including anti-poaching initiatives and wildlife protection programs.

This cost-effective safari across Zimbabwe and Botswana allows you to experience these stunning regions while making a significant positive impact on their environments, wildlife, and local communities. Engage in a meaningful exploration that goes beyond traditional tourism and contributes to a sustainable future.

Victoria Falls

Adventure Awaits

Itinerary Details

Day 1

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, is one of the most spectacular natural wonders of the world. Located on the Zambezi River at the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, this majestic waterfall is renowned for its breathtaking beauty and immense scale. Known locally as “Mosi-oa-Tunya” or “The Smoke That Thunders,” Victoria Falls creates a mist that can be seen from miles away, especially during the peak flood season.

The region around Victoria Falls is rich in both natural beauty and wildlife. The surrounding rainforest, sustained by the spray from the falls, hosts a variety of flora and fauna unique to its microclimate. Visitors often spot wildlife such as monkeys, baboons, and a diverse range of birds within the vicinity of the waterfall.

Victoria Falls also serves as a hub for adventure tourism. Thrill-seekers find a variety of activities ranging from white-water rafting on the Zambezi River, which boasts some of the most challenging rapids in the world, to bungee jumping off the Victoria Falls Bridge. For those seeking a more serene experience, there are river cruises, fishing trips, and scenic helicopter flights offering aerial views of the falls and the surrounding landscape.

The town of Victoria Falls itself offers a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget lodges, catering to the diverse needs of international and local tourists. The local markets and dining establishments provide a taste of Zimbabwean culture and hospitality, with opportunities to enjoy traditional cuisine and crafts.

Culturally, Victoria Falls is significant historical and spiritually important to the local Tonga people. Many cultural tours are available that explore the history and beliefs associated with the area. Additionally, Victoria Falls is a gateway to exploring other parts of Zimbabwe’s rich heritage, including nearby national parks and wildlife reserves.

Overall, Victoria Falls is not just a destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts but also a profound cultural and historical landmark that offers a comprehensive experience of Zimbabwe’s rich natural heritage and community life.

Arrival at Victoria Falls International Airport, from where one of our friendly local Safari365 representatives will greet you with a smile and then transfer you to an eco-friendly lodge – The Wallow. This lodge is renowned for ensuring that your presence has minimal impact on wildlife and their habitats, while enjoying the amazing sights and sounds of Victoria Falls. After check in, there is time to freshen up in the suite with amazing views of the Masuwe River. Depending on the weather, you might even want to take a rejuvenate in the outdoor shower. In the afternoon there is a visit to the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust, followed by cocktails & canapes at the Batoka Gorge to end a perfect day.

Transfer from Victoria Falls International Airport to the lodge

Experience an engaging visit to the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust, where you’ll get an insider’s view of vital conservation efforts. Follow this enriching tour with a relaxing sundowner, enjoying refreshing drinks as the sun sets spectacularly over the landscape, the perfect end to an inspiring day.

The Wallow

The Wallow

The Wallow is a pioneering eco-lodge dedicated to sustainable living and conservation. Equipped with solar heating systems and maintained through organic vegetable gardens, the lodge adheres to a strict plastic-free policy to mitigate environmental impact. An in-house Environment Officer oversees soil erosion and vegetation health to ensure ecological balance.

Annually, The Wallow partners with the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust to educate around 1000 children on conservation, wildlife, and sustainability practices. Furthermore, the lodge supports both the Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit and the Wildlife Trust, highlighting its commitment to preserving local wildlife.

A portion of The Wallow’s revenue is allocated to fund school fees, contribute to Old Age Homes, and support clinics within the local community, illustrating a commitment to societal welfare alongside environmental stewardship.

The Wallow’s architectural design prioritises eco-conscious principles, employing local materials and methods that minimize environmental disruption. This approach not only reduces the lodge’s carbon footprint but also harmonises its presence with the natural landscape, enhancing the overall sustainability of its operations.

Victoria Falls

Day 2

Start off the day with a delicious breakfast served in a serene setting, with views of roaming wildlife in the distance, providing an authentic African safari atmosphere. The emphasis is on locally sourced ingredients, from freshly baked pastries to many hot options. Then you head out for a morning guided tour of the Victoria Falls Rainforest. After this exciting tour, you will be taken for a cultural village tour before returning to the lodge. The village is called Chisuma Village and is located a short distance from the lodge. Here, you can engage with the local community, learn about customs and observe how the community sustains itself.

In the afternoon, you will join your first game activity, a game drive at the Wild Horizons Wildlife Sanctuary.

In the late afternoon, you will be collected for a sundowner cruise on the Zambezi River as the sun sets.

The Wallow

Begin your day with a breathtaking tour of Victoria Falls, experiencing one of nature’s most stunning spectacles. Continue with a cultural village tour to connect with the heritage and traditions of the local community. Enjoy a dynamic game drive in a Wildlife Sanctuary, coming face-to-face with some of Africa’s famed wildlife. Conclude the evening on a sundowner cruise, sipping refreshing drinks as the sun sets.

Chobe National Park

Day 3

Chobe National Park, located in Botswana, is renowned for its exceptional wildlife and diverse landscapes, ranging from lush floodplains to dense woodland. This park is famously home to one of the largest concentrations of game in Africa, including the largest elephant population on the continent. Visitors to Chobe can expect thrilling game drives where sightings of elephants, lions, leopards, and numerous antelope species are common. The park also offers spectacular bird-watching opportunities, with over 450 species recorded. The Chobe River forms the northern boundary of the park and provides a permanent water source for the wildlife, making it a prime location for boat safaris. These excursions offer a unique vantage point to view hippos, crocodiles, and a high density of birds, all thriving in their natural habitat. Chobe’s commitment to conservation and its role in sustainable tourism makes it a vital part of any responsible travel itinerary in Botswana.

Enjoy breakfast, and after, you will be transferred to Botswana. The drive from Victoria Falls to the town of Kasane (the gateway to Chobe) is relatively short and scenic, covering about 70-80 kilometres (approximately 43-50 miles). It takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by car, depending on traffic and border crossing times. The drive offers an opportunity to combine the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls with the wildlife-rich Chobe National Park, making it a convenient and memorable journey. From Kasane, you will be transferred by one of the Wildtrack Safaris Eco Lodge staff members to the eco-friendly lodge. The location is close to the renowned Chobe National Park. Check into one of the 11 thatched chalets. In the afternoon, you can either go out on an incredible wildlife experience in the Kazuma Forest Reserve or partake in a cultural visit to a local community or learn about sustainable farming practices on a guided tour of a nearby farm. The Pandametenga farms are an important source of Botswana’s food supply, and you can take a tour of the expansive farms.

In the evening, unwind at the lodge, which overlooks an active waterhole and the vast Kazuma Pan, where wildlife is free to roam.

Transfer from Victoria Falls to Kasane, then Wildtracks Safaris Eco Lodge staff members will meet and greet you in Kasane and transfer you one-hour to the lodge

Experience an exhilarating game drive where you’ll encounter Africa’s majestic wildlife firsthand. Alternatively, immerse yourself in local culture with a village tour to learn about the daily lives and traditions of the community, highlighting sustainable practices alongside the untamed wilderness of the safari. Each option provides a unique connection to the rich heritage of the region.

Wildtrack Safaris Eco Lodge

Wildtrack Safaris Eco Lodge

Wildtrack Safaris Eco Lodge is a sustainable retreat situated in a private concession about an hour south of the Chobe River and Chobe National Park, adjacent to Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park. Surrounded by wooded savannah and forest, the lodge provides a secluded and exclusive environment for wildlife enthusiasts, offering excellent game viewing opportunities in one of northern Botswana’s most diverse ecosystems.

The lodge operates entirely on solar energy, ensuring minimal environmental impact. Water is recycled, and all waste is carefully treated before being returned to the ecosystem. The lodge holds the highest eco-tourism rating, reflecting its strong commitment to sustainability.

With 11 thatched suites, each featuring private bathrooms, Wildtrack Safaris Eco Lodge offers a blend of comfort and immersion in nature. The main camp is well-equipped, and the floodlit waterhole is a highlight, attracting nocturnal wildlife for unique viewing experiences.

Guests can enjoy morning and afternoon game drives, led by expert guides who will help spot iconic species like elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and predators such as lions, hyenas, wild dogs, and leopards. The lodge’s private location also allows for guided bush walks and visits to a local community, offering insight into everyday life in Botswana. Optional excursions to the Chobe River, Hwange National Park, and Victoria Falls are also available, making it a versatile base for exploring the region.

In addition to its eco-tourism efforts, Wildtrack Safaris Eco Lodge actively supports local community projects, including backing initiatives such as the local community choir, further solidifying its positive impact on the region.

Kazuma Forest Reserve

Day 4

Kazuma Forest Reserve, situated in the northern region of Botswana, is a less frequented gem that offers a secluded and intimate wildlife experience. This expansive reserve is characterized by a diverse landscape of savannah, dense forests, and numerous pans that attract a plethora of wildlife, especially during the dry season. Renowned for its large herds of elephants, the reserve also hosts a variety of predators including lions, leopards, and hyenas, as well as a rich array of bird species. The area’s remote nature ensures that visitors often feel as though they have the wilderness all to themselves, providing an authentic and undisturbed connection with nature. Kazuma Forest Reserve is an ideal spot for those seeking tranquility and an in-depth exploration of Botswana’s spectacular biodiversity.

Depending on the weather, take a refreshing swim in the pool that overlooks the waterhole or just relax at the lodge, which has the highest eco-rating possible in Botswana. During the day, you can go on a bush walk on the property and learn how to identify spoor and track animals, then join either a morning or afternoon game drive. The local guides will explore the landscapes and share their knowledge. In the evening you can go on a night game drive to see nocturnal wildlife in action. The farm-to-table dinner focuses on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to craft delicious, healthy meals that reflect the local flavours and culture. The dining experience is enjoyed under the stars or weather-dependent in the dining area.

Wildtracks Safari Eco Lodge
Included in the activities
Starts:

Wildtracks Safari Eco Lodge

Ends:
Wildtracks Safari Eco Lodge

Today, immerse yourself in the thrill of a bush walk across our expansive 12-hectare property. Feel the excitement of the natural world up close as you track wildlife and learn about local flora and fauna. Afterward, venture into the heart of the forest reserve on a game drive, where the rich biodiversity of the area comes to life.

Khwai Concession

Day 5

Khwai Concession is a prime wildlife sanctuary located on the eastern border of the renowned Moremi Game Reserve in Botswana. This region is famed for its lush landscapes that blend seamlessly into the Okavango Delta, creating a diverse ecosystem ripe for exploration. As a community-run concession, Khwai plays a critical role in conservation through sustainable tourism, benefiting both the environment and local inhabitants. The area is well-known for its excellent sightings of big cats, wild dogs, and abundant birdlife amidst the beautiful backdrops of lagoons, winding rivers, and dense forests. Visitors to Khwai can enjoy a range of activities including traditional mokoro rides, thrilling night drives, and intimate walking safaris, offering immersive experiences that highlight the natural and cultural heritage of this exceptional location.

Check out and a friendly lodge staff member will transfer you through to Kasane. From Kazuma Forest Reserve, it is a scenic drive, passing through unspoiled wilderness, so keep your cameras ready! Wave goodbye at Kasane Airport and board a light aircraft flight to Khwai airstrip. The scenic flight is around 1 hour and you will fly over vast floodplains and wildlife below. On arrival at Khwai airstrip, you’ll be met by a safari lodge guide from Mogothlo Safari Lodge and transferred to the lodge to start an exciting wildlife experience in the Khwai Concession. Check into the comfortable en-suite tents with modern amenities. As the lodge works closely with local communities, you can join a cultural village tour in the afternoon or an afternoon adventure with a guided game drive or walking safari. The multi-course dinner promises to be an unforgettable experience, set against the scenic backdrop of the Khwai River at the lodge. Guests can enjoy ample wildlife viewing opportunities from the comfort of their chairs, creating a unique ‘armchair safari’ experience. Meals will be served either in the wild bush or in the traditional open-air boma, enhancing the connection with nature.

This afternoon, choose from an exhilarating selection of shared activities. Opt for an afternoon game drive to spot majestic wildlife in their natural habitat, or venture into the twilight with a night game drive, where the sounds and sights of the African bush come alive under the stars. Alternatively, engage in an afternoon game walk, an intimate way to connect with the environment as you tread lightly along the paths frequented by wildlife. Complement your adventure with a cultural tour, where you’ll learn more about the traditions and customs of the local communities, gaining invaluable insights and memories.

Mogothlo Safari Lodge

Mogothlo Safari Lodge

Mogothlo Safari Lodge is a prime example of sustainable accommodation, operating entirely off the national grid. Located in a remote part of the Chobe region, this lodge utilises solar power for all its energy needs, including heating water, lighting, and charging devices, through solar panels connected to an inverter and batteries. A back-up generator is available but used sparingly, only in extreme situations to top up the batteries.

The lodge’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its energy use. All guest amenities are sourced from eco-friendly suppliers certified by Beauty Without Cruelty, ensuring products are kind to both the environment and wildlife. Food supplies are locally sourced from surrounding villages, supporting the local economy and reducing the carbon footprint associated with transportation.

Water for the lodge is drawn from an underground borehole and all wastewater, including greywater and effluent, is treated through an innovative purification system known as “The Biorock.” This unique system operates without electricity and has no moving parts, requiring minimal maintenance while effectively returning safe water to the environment.

Mogothlo Safari Lodge is deeply integrated with the local community of Mababe, celebrating and supporting the local culture and history. Guests are encouraged to explore the rich narrative of wildlife-human coexistence in this part of Africa, learning about the dynamic changes and perspectives that have evolved over centuries. This lodge not only offers a gateway to explore the majestic landscapes and diverse wildlife of the area but also provides a deeply enriching cultural experience, making it a thoughtful choice for ecologically and socially conscious travellers.

Khwai Concession

Day 6

The lodge provides a genuine authentic tented safari experience, allowing you to connect deeply with nature. Game drives, guided bush walks, and night safaris allow you to explore the area’s rich biodiversity. The Khwai region is rich in biodiversity, with iconic wildlife like elephants, lions, and leopards, which you will hopefully see on the game activities. The Khwai Concession is managed by the Khwai Development Trust. This community-run organisation ensures that the local community plays a central role in protecting the land, wildlife, and culture.

Mogothlo Safari Lodge
Included in the game activities
Starts:

Mogothlo Safari Lodge

Ends:
Mogothlo Safari Lodge

Start your day with an exciting game drive, either in the morning or afternoon, where you’ll track iconic African wildlife as they roam through the breathtaking landscapes. For a more up-close encounter, join a bush walk and feel the thrill of walking through the wild, discovering animal tracks and learning about the surrounding flora and fauna. To round out the adventure, visit a nearby cultural village where you can engage with the local community, explore their customs, and gain unique insights into their way of life. Each experience promises an unforgettable connection with nature and culture.

Okavango Delta

Day 7

The Okavango Delta is one of Africa’s most iconic and unique ecosystems, renowned for its stunning waterways, lush landscapes, and extraordinary wildlife. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers an unrivalled safari experience with opportunities to explore by traditional mokoro (canoe), boat, or on foot. The delta’s seasonal floodwaters create a rich habitat that supports a diverse range of animals, from elephants and hippos to rare species like the African wild dog. Birdwatchers will be in paradise, as the delta is home to hundreds of bird species. Whether cruising through the crystal-clear channels or observing wildlife on the open plains, the Okavango Delta provides an unforgettable journey through one of Africa’s most pristine wilderness areas.

Today, you will venture to the award-winning Mopiri, situated in a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you can set your own pace in the genuine wilderness of the famous Okavango Delta.

After a morning activity, you will be transferred to Khwai airstrip for a light aircraft flight to Okavango Delta. From the local airstrip, there is a short transfer from the private airstrip to a boat docking area, and then take a 5-minute boat ride to Mopiri. Arrive at the light, airy, tented rooms with large decks overlooking the Weboro Lagoon. There are no set itineraries and flexible schedules. During the welcome and briefing, the hosts will chat with you about your timing and preferences to assess what you feel like doing. During your stay, you can join a boat cruise, barge cruise, catch and release fishing, mokoro canoe safari, nature walk, visit the local Etsha community village, join a talk at the Wild Bird Trust, or alternatively, you are welcome to relax with a beauty treatment at the Mopiri Wellness Centre.

Transfer from lodge to Khwai airstrip, light aircraft flight from Khwai to Okavango Delta (NG24 concession), transfer from the airstrip to a boating launch area, then a 5 minute boat ride to the camp
Starts:

Mogothlo Safari Lodge

Ends:
Mopirii

Choose your adventure for the day: relax on a scenic barge cruise or a boat cruise through the stunning waterways, spotting wildlife along the way. For those who prefer to stay on land, take a nature walk and explore the surrounding wilderness up close. Alternatively, if pre-booked, you can attend an engaging talk at the research camp, where you’ll gain fascinating insights into ongoing conservation efforts in the area. Each option promises an exciting and immersive experience in the heart of nature.

Mopiri

Mopiri

Mopiri, located within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a unique blend of luxurious accommodation and immersive educational experiences. Positioned on the western bank of the vast and idyllic Weboro Lagoon, Mopiri is framed by palm trees and large shady figs, with its 10 luxury rooms providing panoramic views across the Okavango Delta.

The lodge is distinguished not only by its commitment to comfort but also by its involvement in significant conservation efforts. It serves as the launch site for the “National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project” Delta wetland bird surveys and hosts educational workshops in partnership with local schools as part of its community outreach programs. Guests have the unique opportunity to engage with the Wild Bird Trust research camp located on site and attend talks by scientists at the active research centre.

The accommodation includes seven luxury rooms and three family suites, all connected by long winding boardwalks that extend to the main area, the pool, and the jetty—allowing guests to explore the beautiful surroundings from an elevated position. Each luxury tent is spacious and airy, featuring king-size beds, large private decks, and en-suite bathrooms equipped with double sinks and large rain showers designed to maximize the stunning lagoon views. The family units offer additional space and accessibility, welcoming children of all ages and ensuring privacy and tranquillity for all guests.

Surrounded by crystal clear Delta water, Mopiri’s location allows guests to observe wildlife such as hippopotamuses, elephants, and sitatunga in their natural habitats, depending on the season. Visitors can also indulge in restorative treatments at the Mopiri Wellness Centre or explore local Etsha communities, providing a deeper understanding of the area’s cultural fabric.

For those looking to explore further afield, a visit to another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tsodilo Hills, can be arranged, adding a cultural and historical dimension to the stay. At Mopiri, guests are encouraged to set their own pace, whether they choose to embark on various Delta expeditions or simply relax and soak in the tranquillity of island life.

Okavango Delta

Day 8

Mopiri Camp, superbly positioned on the edge of a lagoon within the breathtaking expanse of the Okavango Delta, invites you to immerse in one of the world’s most ecologically diverse areas. Today, embark on a selection of water and land-based safari activities. Traverse the Delta’s intricate waterways in a traditional mokoro (canoe) or take a thrilling boat safari. For those who prefer land, guided nature walks offer a more grounded exploration of the Delta’s flora and fauna. Between adventures, relax and enjoy serene lagoon views directly from your tent, soaking in the natural beauty that surrounds you.

Mopirii

Today’s activities are based on your preferences and can include:
– 3-hour boat cruise
– 2 to 3-hour double-storey barge cruise
– Fishing (December to March)
– 5 hours including a boat ride on the Mokoro canoe safari (seasonal)
– 2-hour nature walk
– A full day of adventure with island hopping by Mokoro, nature walks and a picnic lunch
– 3-hour cultural village visit
– 3-hour talk from scientists at the Wild Bird Trust research camp (booking well in advance)

Okavango Delta

Day 9

As you continue your stay at Mopiri Camp, your engagement with this premier wildlife destination deepens. The camp is renowned for its commitment to responsible and ethical tourism practices, earning various accolades in this regard. Over these three nights, experience these principles in action, contributing to conservation efforts while enjoying your safari. Continue exploring the unique landscapes of the Okavango Delta with another day packed with exceptional safari activities, ensuring a rich, rewarding experience that resonates with the camp’s ethos.

Mopirii

Today’s activities are based on your preferences and can include:
– 3-hour boat cruise
– 2 to 3-hour double-storey barge cruise
– Fishing (December to March)
– 5 hours including a boat ride on the Mokoro canoe safari (seasonal)
– 2-hour nature walk
– A full day of adventure with island hopping by Mokoro, nature walks and a picnic lunch
– 3-hour cultural village visit
– 3-hour talk from scientists at the Wild Bird Trust research camp (booking well in advance)

Departure

Day 10

Today is your final day of this Victoria Falls and Botswana responsible travel tour. There will be short boat ride to the private airstrip and then travel to Maun by light aircraft flight which is around 45 minutes with breathtaking aerial views of the winding waterways and lagoons. Once in Maun you will connect with your international flight for onward journey filled with amazing memories.

Transfer from camp to airstrip, light aircraft flight from Kiri airstrip to Maun airport
Starts:

Mopirii

Ends:
Maun airport

Kick off your final morning with one last adventure (subject to time). This is your chance to soak in the beauty and excitement of the wild one more time before bidding farewell to this unforgettable experience.

Summary

Victoria Falls & Botswana Responsible Travel: Chobe, Khwai & Okavango Delta

Start / End
Victoria Falls| Maun
Accommodation
2 nights at The Wallow, 2 nights at Wildtracks Safari Eco Lodge, 2 nights at Mogothlo Safari Lodge, 3 nights at Mopiri Camp
Meals & Drinks
9 Breakfasts, 8 lunches & 9 dinners
Activities

Morning and afternoon game drives, boat cruises, barge cruises, guided walks, mokoro canoe safaris (seasonal), birding, cultural interactions, farm tours, guided tour of Victoria Falls, sunset boat cruise on Zambezi River, research talks, fishing, sundowners

Transport
Transfer from Victoria Falls International Airport to the lodge, transfer from the lodge to Kasane/Kazuma Forest Reserve, Light aircraft flights within Botswana, transfers from the lairstrip to the properties and back to the airstrip.

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