Makgadikgadi Salt Pans: A stunning view of a lake surrounded by elephants and zebras, capturing the unique wildlife and breathtaking landscape of this iconic Botswana destination.

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Botswana – 15-day Wildlife Breakaway – Group accommodated

15 days / 14 nights
Maun • Guma Lagoon • Moremi Game Reserve • Nata • Kasane • Western Hwange National Park • Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)

Country

Botswana, Zimbabwe

Duration

15 days

Group Size

Min 4, Max 12

Highlights

Maun

Guma Lagoon

Moremi Game Reserve

+4 destinations

Rated 4.9/5

See reviews

Botswana – 15-day Wildlife Breakaway – Group accommodated

From $5,249
Hideaways Nantwich Lodge, Hwange
Western Hwange National Park
Chobe Safari Lodge
Shearwater Explorers Village
Nata Lodge
Nata Lodge

Includes

Daily breakfast, lunch on 8 days and dinner on 11 nights are included
Accommodation in Botswana and Zimbabwe as mentioned in the itinerary or of a similar standard
All transport in fully equipped safari vehicle
Game drives and activities as mentioned
Experienced local Botswana and Zimbabwe guides
Airport transfers in Maun, on day of arrival and Victoria Falls on day of departure

Excludes

Flights into Maun, Botswana and out of Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Pre and post tour accommodation in Maun and Victoria Falls
Optional activities
All drinks
Gratuities
Personal expenses such as telephone calls, curios etc
Travel insurance and visas
Park Fees & Activities (quoted separately)

Itinerary

Maun, Botswana

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 river boat cruise up and down the Thamalakane River, and the forest groves of the Maun Game Reserve.
Maun
Maun
Maun
  • Thamalakane River Lodge

    Day 1 - 2

    Thamalakane River Lodge is located along the Thamalakane River, just outside Maun and on the route to the Moremi Game Reserve. The lodge offers convenient access to local attractions such as mokoro excursions, boat cruises, and guided game drives. Accommodation includes chalets with river views, en-suite bathrooms, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy meals at the on-site restaurant, which serves à la carte and plated options. Leisure facilities include a spa, a swimming pool, and opportunities for scenic flights, making it a comfortable base for exploring the surrounding wilderness.
    Thamalakane River Lodge

Day 1

Day Notes:

On arrival at Maun International Airport, you will be met and transferred to Thamalakane River Lodge, located on the banks of the Thamalakane River. It is just outside of Maun and en-route to the famous Okavango Delta.  The rest of the afternoon of your first day on safari in Botswana may be spent at leisure enjoying one of the many activities available at the lodge. This evening you will meet your guide and the rest of your group that you are travelling with.

  • Transfer from Victoria Falls International Airport [VFA] to Thamalakane River Lodge

  • Check-in to Thamalakane River Lodge

  • Arrival in Vuctoria Falls and afternoon at leisure

Guma Lagoon, Botswana

Guma Lagoon is found in the northern reaches of Botswana. This wonderful retreat on the banks of the Okavango River is a dream destination for animal lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, providing a range of sights and activities. Not only can visitors enjoy premium bird watching with over 200 native species and freshwater fishing opportunities, both spin and fly-fishing; but Guma Lagoon is also a fantastic base for self-guided game drives and traditional dug-out canoe (mokoro) tours, which allow you to navigate the palm islands and waterlily beds of the scenic Okavango. Other key activities include bush walks, forest trails and stargazing. Finally, note that accommodation is provided exclusively through Guma Lagoon Camp – and so advance booking, particularly for the self-catering units, is highly recommended.
Guma Lagoon
Guma Lagoon
Guma Lagoon
Guma Lagoon
Guma Lagoon
Guma Lagoon
  • Guma Lagoon Camp

    Day 2 - 4

    Guma Lagoon Camp is nestled on the banks of the Guma Lagoon, offering ideal access to the Northwestern Okavango Delta. The camp offers a selection of chalets, all equipped with ensuite bathrooms. Guma Camp has a small kitchen that caters to clients, as well as a communal kitchen for all guests to use. Other services and facilities include a bar, a swimming pool, and a coffee station.
    Guma Lagoon Camp
    Guma Lagoon Camp
    Guma Lagoon Camp
    Guma Lagoon Camp
    Guma Lagoon Camp
    Guma Lagoon Camp

Day 2 - 3

Day Notes:

After breakfast, we head to Etsha 13, on the western border of the Okavango Delta. Unlike other deltas, it flows deep into the Kalahari Desert without reaching the sea. The next day is spent exploring the network of water pathways through thick vegetation in mokoros (traditional dugout canoes), discovering a variety of birds and wildlife. We have the opportunity to stop at a secluded island for a 1½ hour guided walk during which you may spot elephants, waterbuck or other animals living in this water-filled paradise.

  • Transfer from Thamalakane River Lodge to Guma Lagoon Camp

  • Stay at Guma Lagoon Camp

Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana

Situated in the east of the Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve ranks as one of the most beautiful reserves in Africa. It covers more than 4871 square kilometres of pristine wilderness, and this varied terrain includes savannah, winding waterways, and dense forest. The diverse ecosystem supports an incredibly wide spectrum of wildlife, ranging from large herds of buffalo, wildebeest and zebra, to the rare sitatunga and lechwe antelope, lion, cheetah and packs of wild dog in the open grasslands. The birdlife is prolific and includes most of the 550 bird species recorded on Botswana’s national bird list. A range of luxury lodges in the reserve offers visitors the perfect base to experience this corner of paradise.
Moremi Game Reserve
Moremi Game Reserve
Moremi Game Reserve
Moremi Game Reserve
Moremi Game Reserve
Moremi Game Reserve
+23
  • Mankwe Adventure Camp

    Day 4 - 7

    Overlooking the bush and mopane forest, Mankwe Adventure Camp offers guests the perfect gateway to the Moremi Game Reserve. Each campsite is secluded, offering guests a sense of privacy and exclusivity. On-site amenities and facilities include a safari kitchen with a gas stove and fridge, as well as ablution blocks equipped with bucket showers, flush toilets, and washbasins. For leisure, guests have the opportunity to explore the untamed wilderness and experience the beauty of Botswana’s natural wonders.
    Mankwe Adventure Camp
    Mankwe Adventure Camp
    Mankwe Adventure Camp
    Mankwe Adventure Camp
    Mankwe Adventure Camp
    Mankwe Adventure Camp

Day 4

Day Notes:

After breakfast, we head south, travelling via Maun to our second camp in the delta. It is situated in a private concession in the Greater Moremi area. This large expanse of pristine delta vegetation is renowned for its concentration of mammals. It is not unusual to see many different types of wildlife during a game drive. Game viewing is seasonal and depending on the time of the year, you may see different species in different areas. The best time for game viewing in the delta is  towards the end of the dry season and spring from August to November. During this period we will drive further to get closer to the rivers and channels for the best game viewing. In the summer, the abundant birdlife often means exceptional sightings of wildfowl, waders and raptors.

 

  • Check-out from Guma Lagoon Camp

  • Transfer from Guma Lagoon Camp to Mankwe Adventure Camp

  • Journey to Moremi Game Reserve

  • Check-in to Mankwe Adventure Camp

Day 5

Day Notes:

We have the opportunity to explore the Greater Moremi area on morning and afternoon game drives as well as during a very special night drive. Expect exceptional game viewing from the vehicles and we hope to show you the rare nocturnal animals that call this area home on the night drive

  • Morning and afternoon game drives

Day 6

Day Notes:

Today, we embark on a full-day game drive in Khwai, situated on the fringes of the Moremi Game Reserve and boasts a diverse ecosystem of lagoons, plains, and forests. With a small population living in harmony with wildlife, Khwai attracts large herds of elephant and buffalo in the dry season, offering excellent opportunities for lion and leopard sightings alongside abundant birdlife and varied flora.

  • Full day game drive

Nata, Botswana

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.
Nata
Nata
Nata
Nata
Nata
Nata
  • Nata Lodge

    Day 7 - 8

    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.
    Nata Lodge
    Nata Lodge
    Nata Lodge
    Nata Lodge
    Nata Lodge
    Nata Lodge
    +3

Day 7

Day Notes:

Leaving the Moremi bush behind us, we travel east towards the Makgadikgadi Pans on this leg of our Botswana safari. The area was once a large river-fed lake that has become saline and empty and incorporates a multitude of salt pans and vast grass plains dotted by palm islands. Together this forms the Great Makgadikgadi which is the largest area of salt pans in the world, covering some 37,000 square km. We arrive at our lodge on the edge of the pans in the late afternoon.

  • Check-out from Mankwe Adventure Camp

  • Transfer from Mankwe Adventure Camp to Nata Lodge

  • Journey to Makgadikgadi Pans

  • Check-in to Nata Lodge

Kasane, Botswana

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.
Kasane
Kasane
Kasane
Kasane
Kasane
Kasane
  • Chobe Safari Lodge

    Day 8 - 10

    Chobe Safari Lodge is situated in Kasane on the banks of the Chobe River and shares a border with Chobe National Park. Right on the doorstep is the meeting of four African countries: Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Zambia. Chobe Safari Lodge therefore offers an excellent getaway location to Chobe, Victoria Falls or Caprivi. The close proximity to Victoria Falls International Airport, Livingstone International Airport and Kasane International Airport makes it easily accessible, with daily road transfers or charter flights connecting all these airports with Chobe Safari Lodge. The lodge has been recently renovated; matching a magical lodge experience to the spectacular game viewing.
    Chobe Safari Lodge
    Chobe Safari Lodge
    Chobe Safari Lodge
    Chobe Safari Lodge
    Chobe Safari Lodge
    Chobe Safari Lodge
    +10

Day 8 - 9

Day Notes:

We head off to Nata Bird Sanctuary in the morning, which offers us the opportunity to enjoy the magnificent view over the Sowa pan, which is part of the Greater Makgadikgadi Pans (please note a visit to the pans is subject to the road conditions and water levels as well as time constraints). After breakfast, we continue our journey north to Kasane, the gateway to your safari into Chobe National Park. Chobe, which is the second-largest national park in Botswana and covers 10,566 square km, has one of the greatest concentrations of elephants found on the African continent. The afternoon is at your own leisure to partake in optional activities or to relax by the pool. Start your morning of day 9 with a spectacular game drive in Chobe National Park. You will return to the lodge for a late breakfast and chill time until your boat cruise on the Chobe River starts around 3 pm. This Chobe River cruise offers excellent opportunities to photograph elephants, hippos, crocodiles and a variety of birds.

  • Transfer from Nata Lodge to Chobe Safari Lodge

  • Stay at Chobe Safari Lodge

Western Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

Located in western Zimbabwe, Hwange National Park (formerly Wankie Game Reserve) is the largest natural reserve in the country and is famous for its rich diversity of wildlife. The northern and western areas of the park are different - the northern area is encompassed by the Zambezi watershed, while the western part consists of grasslands, marshes, and scattered woodlands. The natural seeps such as Nehimba and Shakwanki, where animals dig for water, are particularly notable. The park is home to one of the biggest elephant populations in the world, as well as around 100 mammal species, and several protected animals including the endangered wild dog, critically endangered black rhino, and rare roan and sable. Around 500 bird species also inhabit the area. Visitors can look forward to bush hikes, game drives, and horse riding safaris.
Western Hwange National Park
Western Hwange National Park
Western Hwange National Park
Western Hwange National Park
Western Hwange National Park
Western Hwange National Park
  • Hideaways Nantwich Lodge, Hwange

    Day 10 - 13

    A hidden gem within a hidden gem, experience this unique and intimate eco-lodge reclaimed from a bygone era. Hideaways Nantwich Lodge has a history closely tied to that of Hwange National Park, as described here by acclaimed author Tony Park. Nantwich Lodge attracts true safari lovers who want to get off the beaten track and discover the pristine wilderness and abundant wildlife of Northern Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe. Perched up on a hill overlooking a large dam with resident crocodile and hippo, the game lodge boasts some of the best game viewing in the area. This remote safari lodge in Hwange National Park promotes conservation and responsible tourism by preserving the natural heritage of this great wilderness.
    Hideaways Nantwich Lodge, Hwange
    Hideaways Nantwich Lodge, Hwange
    Hideaways Nantwich Lodge, Hwange
    Hideaways Nantwich Lodge, Hwange
    Hideaways Nantwich Lodge, Hwange
    Hideaways Nantwich Lodge, Hwange
    +10

Day 10 - 12

Day Notes:

Today, we make our way into Zimbabwe to Nantwich Lodge, situated in the northwest corner of Hwange National Park, the largest national park in Zimbabwe, covering an area of approx. 14 650 km2. Named after a local chief, Hwange is situated in the northwest corner of the country about one hour south of the Victoria Falls. Due to its close proximity to the Falls, Hwange boasts an incredible biodiversity of flora and fauna, and a plethora of African wildlife. There are over 100 species of mammals and nearly 400 bird species recorded here. Upon your arrival, you’ll have the opportunity to partake in an afternoon game drive, allowing you to immediately immerse yourself in the rich wildlife experience this pristine location has to offer.

The following day is spent on a full day game drive where you will discover a variety of animals, including some predators among them. In the evening, you will be able to enjoy a night game drive, offering a unique opportunity to witness the fascinating nocturnal wildlife in their natural habitat.

This morning you will embark on a walking safari, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of the African wilderness. In the afternoon, you’ll have the chance to extend your quest for African wildlife on an exciting game drive.

 

  • Transfer from Chobe Safari Lodge to Hideaways Nantwich Lodge, Hwange

  • Journey to Hwange National Park

  • Stay at Hideaways Nantwich Lodge, Hwange

Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe), Zimbabwe

Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya—“The Smoke That Thunders”—Victoria Falls is one of the world’s great natural landmarks. Straddling the Zambezi River between Zambia and Zimbabwe, it forms a vast curtain of water that fills the air with mist and sound. The Zimbabwean side grants the most dramatic views, where mist rises like ghostly curtains and rainbows arc through the spray. Measuring about 1,708 metres across, it is regarded as the largest single continuous sheet of falling water on Earth. The adjacent town of Victoria Falls provides a convenient base for exploring the region, with a wide range of activities from scenic flights and microlight trips to white-water rafting, bungee jumping, kayaking, and safaris into Chobe National Park.
Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)
Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)
Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)
Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)
Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)
Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)
+5
  • Shearwater Explorers Village

    Day 13 - 15

    Shearwater Explorers Village is a lodge located in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, close to Victoria Falls, Curio Shops and Elephants Walk Shopping Centre. 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.
    Shearwater Explorers Village
    Shearwater Explorers Village
    Shearwater Explorers Village
    Shearwater Explorers Village
    Shearwater Explorers Village
    Shearwater Explorers Village
    +36

Day 13

Day Notes:

After breakfast and the end of your safari in Hwange, we head back towards Victoria Falls. Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure enjoying one of the many activities that Vic Falls has to offer.

  • Check-out from Hideaways Nantwich Lodge, Hwange

  • Transfer from Hideaways Nantwich Lodge, Hwange to Shearwater Explorers Village

  • Check-in to Shearwater Explorers Village

Day 14

Day Notes:

Explore Victoria Falls at your leisure today. This unique town offers a variety of adventure activities and cultural experiences. Your guide will take you on a tour of the mighty Victoria Falls, known by the local Kololo tribe as Mosi oa Tunya- “the smoke that thunders”. In the afternoon we embark on a relaxing sunset cruise on the mighty Zambezi River.

Day 15

  • Check-out from Shearwater Explorers Village

  • Transfer from Shearwater Explorers Village to Victoria Falls International Airport [VFA]

  • Transfer to Victoria Falls Airport

End of Itinerary

Destinations

Maun
Botswana
Day 1

Maun

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.
Guma Lagoon
Botswana
Day 2

Guma Lagoon

Guma Lagoon is found in the northern reaches of Botswana.
Moremi Game Reserve
Botswana
Day 4-6

Moremi Game Reserve

Situated in the east of the Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve ranks as one of the most beautiful reserves in Africa.
Nata
Botswana
Day 7

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).
Kasane
Botswana
Day 8

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.
Western Hwange National Park
Zimbabwe
Day 10

Western Hwange National Park

Located in western Zimbabwe, Hwange National Park (formerly Wankie Game Reserve) is the largest natural reserve in the country and is famous for its rich diversity of wildlife.
Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)
Zimbabwe
Day 13-14

Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)

Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya—“The Smoke That Thunders”—Victoria Falls is one of the world’s great natural landmarks.

Accommodations

Thamalakane River Lodge
Maun
Day 1-2

Thamalakane River Lodge

Thamalakane River Lodge is located along the Thamalakane River, just outside Maun and on the route to the Moremi Game Reserve.
Guma Lagoon Camp
Guma Lagoon
Day 2-4

Guma Lagoon Camp

Guma Lagoon Camp is nestled on the banks of the Guma Lagoon, offering ideal access to the Northwestern Okavango Delta.
Mankwe Adventure Camp
Moremi Game Reserve
Day 4-7

Mankwe Adventure Camp

Overlooking the bush and mopane forest, Mankwe Adventure Camp offers guests the perfect gateway to the Moremi Game Reserve.
Nata Lodge
Nata
Day 7-8

Nata Lodge

An oasis set among the Mokolwane palms on the edge of the pans.
Chobe Safari Lodge
Kasane
Day 8-10

Chobe Safari Lodge

Chobe Safari Lodge is situated in Kasane on the banks of the Chobe River and shares a border with Chobe National Park.
Hideaways Nantwich Lodge, Hwange
Western Hwange National Park
Day 10-13

Hideaways Nantwich Lodge, Hwange

A hidden gem within a hidden gem, experience this unique and intimate eco-lodge reclaimed from a bygone era.
Shearwater Explorers Village
Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)
Day 13-15

Shearwater Explorers Village

Shearwater Explorers Village is a lodge located in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, close to Victoria Falls, Curio Shops and Elephants Walk Shopping Centre.

03 October, 28 October, 03 November, 20 December 2025

  • Per person sharing: US$5,249
  • Single supplement: US$1,350

Botswana – 11-day Okavango Delta and Chobe Safari

Ines was very professional and patient with all the setbacks my family faced not only with COVID issues but also with finding dates and availability of our travelers. Dealing with airline cancellations and Covid testing was challenging even until departure. We could not have traveled so "easily" under the circumstances without her!

Kateri Walsh
Recommend highly!

Botswana & Zimbabwe – 11-day Botswana & Zimbabwe Discoverer Safari

Perfect trip
Michele was exceptional with regular communications and helpful tips throughout.
Very flexible and quick response times.
Safari with Bushways was out of this world.
Highly recommended

Cheika Kennedy
Extraordinarily helpful. Went above and beyond multiple times.

Botswana – 8-Day Buffalo Safari – Group camping

chose Indigo Safaris as I wanted to book with a local company who knew their stuff. Michele helped with the booking process and was very helpful, responding quickly to all my questions and quickly pinning down safari dates. The actual safari in Botswana was provided by Bush Ways, who were fantastic - the planning and execution of the camping and safaris was top rate and Evans and Kepapa were our exceptional guide and cook. The wildlife was unbelievable, far exceeding my expectations.

Spending our last night in the Pioneers Lodge, after 6 nights of wild camping among the lions, hippos and elephants, was the perfect finish to a very memorable trip.

Sheena Gordon
Completely fabulous from start to finish

Di Nam & Bots Combo

Indigo safaris created the holiday of our dreams!

Indigo safaris did an amazing job booking the perfect trip to Namibia and Botswana for two sixty year old women. Michele listened to what we wanted from our trip and designed a holiday which fitted our needs. Michele was quick to respond to messages even while we were away and even helped resolve issues that she had not even created. I can’t rate her highly enough.

Di
United Kingdom

Namibia and Botswana

After a lot of research we chose Indigo safaris with Michele as our operator. She was simply amazing. Her communication was so efficient. She always returned calls quickly. She was ready to help , change plans etc.
we have just returned from Namibia and I think our trip was good value.
Go with Indigo. You will not regret it !

Debbie Summers
Cannot recommend Indigo safaris enough !

Namibia and Botswana – 15-day dventure & Chobe Safari

Indigo safaris did an amazing job booking the perfect trip to Namibia and Botswana for two sixty year old women. Michele listened to what we wanted from our trip and designed a holiday which fitted our needs. Michele was quick to respond to messages even while we were away and even helped resolve issues that she had not even created. I can’t rate her highly enough.

Diana Park
Indigo safaris created the holiday of our dreams!

Jean 11-day Botswana & Victoria Falls Zimbabwe Value-For-Money Safari – Private fly-in

Matt at Indigo Safaris arranged a fantastic trip for us! He was so helpful; willing to investigate every crazy request and answer every question :)

We experienced a wide range of habitats, from delta to desert, and saw the Big 5 plus so much more. A highlight of the trip was something we’d never heard of until Matt suggested it - a night sleeping under the African sky on an open 2-story platform, alongside a waterhole visited by lions, elephants, and other wild creatures throughout the night. The stars were absolutely magical!

All the internal flights arrived like clockwork. We were delighted with the intimate “mid-range” camps we chose with Matt’s advice. Each of them was very comfortable, employed lovely staff, offered good food, and had prompt laundry service. One of the best features of our trip was having close-up encounters with elephants and other animals as they roamed through these small camps.

We followed up our adventure with a stay at the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, and it was the perfect touch of luxury after our time in the bush.

We’ve enjoyed previous safaris in Tanzania, Kenya, and the Pantanal Wetlands of Brazil, and we were delighted that Matt and Indigo were able to provide such a totally different experience for us. Would love to work with them again someday!

Jean Gorndt
Amazing Okavango Delta & Beyond