Botswana & Zimbabwe - 11-day Botswana & Zimbabwe Discoverer Safari - Group accommodated

Home / All Tours / Botswana & Zimbabwe – 11-day Botswana & Zimbabwe Discoverer Safari – Group accommodated

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

11 days / 10 nights
Deception Valley Private Reserve • Xhumaga • Khwai Community Area • Chobe River Front • Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)

Country

Botswana, Zimbabwe

Duration

11 days

Group Size

Min 4 Max 12

Highlights

Deception Valley Private Reserve

Xhumaga

Khwai Community Area

+2 destinations

Rated 4.9/5

See reviews

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

From $3,955
Chobe Elephant Camp
Deception Valley Private Reserve
Khwai Guest House
Chobe Elephant Camp
Xhumaga
Chobe Elephant Camp

Includes

All transfers and activities as per the itinerary
All accommodation (rooms in comfortable lodges or luxury tents)
All meals that are indicated
Services of a Professional Guide
All Botswana park fees for activities included in itinerary
 Transport in enclosed, air-conditioned or specialised safari vehicles.

Excludes

Flights
Airport transfers
Meals not mentioned
Beverages (alcohol, soft drinks and bottled mineral water)
Entrance to the Falls
Optional excursions at the lodges (scenic flight over the Delta, activities in Victoria Falls, game drives, fishing etc)
Gratuities - we recommend US$ 10 per person/day per guide and for lodge staff
Entry visa
Increase in government tax and park fees
Travel insurance to cover for cancellation and curtailment medical, baggage, emergency evacuation, any increase in National Park fees

Itinerary

Deception Valley Private Reserve, Botswana

Cocooned within pristine Kalahari bushveld along the northeastern boundary of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, Deception Valley Private Reserve derives its name from an optical illusion. The phenomenon is centred around a pan with the area, a visual trickery that renders the dry, blue-clay pan as water, creating a captivating spectacle, particularly noticeable from the air. Home to a diverse array of wildlife, including large herds of greater kudu, red hartebeest, springbok, and eland, as well as predators like caracal, Cape fox, lions, and cheetahs. Morning and afternoon game drives offer opportunities to observe lions, cheetahs, leopards, wild dogs, giraffes, elephants, and more. Night safaris reveal nocturnal species such as porcupines, honey badgers, spotted genets, and springhares. A rich abundance of birdlife complements the stunning landscape of golden grass, rolling mounds, and sculpted trees.
Deception Valley Private Reserve
Deception Valley Private Reserve
Deception Valley Private Reserve
Deception Valley Private Reserve
Deception Valley Private Reserve
Deception Valley Private Reserve
  • The Dune Camp

    Day 1 - 3

    The Dune Camp is situated on a vegetated dune overlooking spectacular views of the Kalahari valleys. The Camp is on the north-eastern boundary of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve in one of the largest private game reserves in Botswana. Deception Valley Private Reserve spans more than 43 000Ha of pristine Kalahari wilderness. Designated waterholes, hidden viewing hides, vegetated dunes, natural pans and an amazing valley, offer incredible game viewing opportunities. The camp also gives you an opportunity to embrace the San culture as they share intricate knowledge about their way of life. This cultural exchange is a fundamental part of the Kalahari experience, offering a once in a lifetime experience to your stay. Guests can take advantage of wildlife activities which include: open vehicle game drives in the private reserve and a San trail and nature walk with local Naru tribe. The waterhole is a major attraction and hours can be spent sitting at the main area enjoying the view and activity as the wildlife comes for a drink.
    The Dune Camp
    The Dune Camp
    The Dune Camp
    The Dune Camp
    The Dune Camp
    The Dune Camp
    +4

Day 1

Day Notes:

The safari begins in Maun where your guide will meet you at 14h30 at Maun Airport. You will travel 120km to the Kalahari Private Reserve on the northern border of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. Upon arrival you will be given a safari briefing. Night spent in a comfortable camp.

Maun – Kalahari Private Reserve (northern border CKGR): 120km, 4h

  • Transfer from Maun International Airport [MUB] to The Dune Camp

  • Check-in to The Dune Camp

Day 2

Day Notes:

You will explore the Kalahari, enjoying game drives and participate in a nature walk led by a local San tracker. They will share their intricate bush knowledge and give you an insight into their unique and intriguing culture. You will also do game drives explore the area, home to a fascinating variety of desert specialised wildlife such as oryx and predators including lion, hyena and cheetah. Savour the vast open spaces, clear night skies and uninterrupted beauty.

  • Game drives

Xhumaga, Botswana

The small town of Xhumaga is situated in north-central Botswana and rests on the western bank of the Boteti River, flanking the Makgadikgadi National Park. This photographer’s wonderland presents visitors with striking scenes of vast open plains, dramatic Acacia tree silhouettes and wandering herds of wildlife. The Makgadikgadi National Park, which encompasses the largest saltpan in the world, provides a home for antelope, zebra and wildebeest, and stone-age tools and artefacts dot the landscape. At the Nxai Pan, nature enthusiasts can spot unusual species such as hartebeest, bat-eared fox, brown hyena, and cheetah. A rich culture flourishes here, and the town is happy to welcome visitors to their way of life. Make sure to try some of the region’s traditional dishes such as mopane worms, lamb, meat stew (seswaa) and maize porridge (pap), as well as the sweet, tasty watermelon (lerotse) grown here.
Xhumaga
Xhumaga
Xhumaga
Xhumaga
Xhumaga
Xhumaga
  • Boteti River Camp

    Day 3 - 4

    Overlooking the riverbed, Boteti River Camp rests at the edge of Makgadikgadi National Park, near Khumaga Village, and is within reach of Nxai Pan National Park and Central Kalahari Game Reserve. It offers a perfect escape to explore the vast open landscapes of this semi-arid area. The property features 8 en-suite chalets, mini Meru tents within the campsite area, a swimming pool, a dining area and a bar. An elevated viewing lounge overlooking the river invites you to wait for elephants or occasional zebra as they come by for a water break. For the adventurous traveller, we also have 8 campsites. Each campsite features a fireplace, water and power-points, as well as a shaded area under which they can pitch their tents. The campsite area has shared ablutions, as well as an area for washing cooking equipment.
    Boteti River Camp
    Boteti River Camp
    Boteti River Camp
    Boteti River Camp
    Boteti River Camp
    Boteti River Camp
    +5

Day 3

Day Notes:

You will wake up as the sun rises and do a short game drive before heading to the Makgadikgadi area. You will spend one night at a camp, an oasis on the edge of the Makgadikgadi National Park, overlooking the Boteti River in Khumaga village. Arriving for Lunch at the camp you will have time for a short siesta and then enjoy a game drive along the Boteti river in the late afternoon. 

Kalahari Private Reserve – Boteti River Camp: 120km, 4-5h (including game drive)

  • Morning safari activity

  • Check-out from The Dune Camp

  • Transfer from The Dune Camp to Boteti River Camp

  • Check-in to Boteti River Camp

  • Afternoon safari activity

Khwai Community Area, Botswana

The Khwai area of the Okavango lies along the northern boundary of the Moremi Game Reserve. Khwai Community Area has unfenced boundaries allowing wildlife to move freely between the woodlands in the wet season when water is plentiful and back to permanent rivers and lagoons in the dry season. The Khwai area offers the same wildlife experience as the Moremi Game Reserve with the added advantage of being a private concession, which means the ability to do walking safaris and night drives. Don't miss the opportunity to soak up beautiful views of the scenic landscape and spot an array of wildlife.
Khwai Community Area
Khwai Community Area
Khwai Community Area
Khwai Community Area
Khwai Community Area
Khwai Community Area
+3
  • Khwai Guest House

    Day 4 - 7

    Tucked in the heart of the friendly rural village of Khwai, at the doorstep of the Moremi Game Reserve, Khwai Guest House opens the door to a true African experience, offering a pristine immersion into Botswana’s unique nature and culture. Welcoming guests into 6 ensuite rooms and 2 family units, Khwai Guest House offers a cosy nest from which to experience the traditional lifestyle of this small community set amongst one of the most spectacular wilderness locations of Botswana. Guests will have the choice between being completely independent and exploring this stunning destination on their own, or joining some of the many group activities we offer including morning, afternoon and night game drives, excursions in the traditional dugout canoe (Mokoro), and cultural visits to the Khwai community. Guests also have the opportunity to do a scenic helicopter flight over the majestic Okavango Delta.
    Khwai Guest House
    Khwai Guest House
    Khwai Guest House
    Khwai Guest House
    Khwai Guest House
    Khwai Guest House
    +13

Day 4 - 6

Day Notes:

After breakfast you will make your way west, you will stop over in Maun where you will enjoy lunch (at your own expense) at a local restaurant. Your adventure then proceeds to Khwai, your drive will take you through beautiful wildlife areas, game viewing as you go. You will have the option of taking an air transfer that afternoon to Khwai (1 hour, inclusive of a 15-minute scenic flight, rate TBA by your guide/agent – to be booked during the safari, payment in USD cash only). Your journey is to the Khwai River area, on the border of the Moremi Game Reserve - one of the best wilderness areas of Botswana with very high concentrations of game.

The next days will be spent searching for the wide variety of wildlife and birds that this area is renowned for while absorbing the sounds and beauty of this region. Enjoy game drives in the early morning as the sun rises and late afternoon as the sun sets. Night at Khwai Guesthouse in the Khwai Village. The next two days you will further explore this region of the famous Okavango Delta, you will do game drives to explore the region surrounding the Khwai River (northeast Moremi / Khwai Concession). You will also have an opportunity to do a mokoro excursion into a community-managed concession area. Your guide will take you on a scenic drive to the Mokoro station where you will meet your Mokoro poler/guide, who will share with you the hidden secrets of this water system.

  • Transfer from Boteti River Camp to Khwai Guest House

  • Stay at Khwai Guest House

  • Game drives

Chobe River Front, Botswana

The Chobe River forms the northern boundary of the Chobe National Park, renowned for its diverse and abundant game viewing opportunities. This section of the park is best known for its dense concentration of wildlife including elephant and hippo populations, but the waters attract all manner of game including large herds of buffalo and the lions that prey on them. A visit to this area guarantees close encounters with an array of African wildlife. Visitors can look forward to some exciting activities such as: being driven along the game-dotted river banks in a 4WD; cruising along the river in a motorboat, spotting rare birdlife for a unique safari experience.
Chobe River Front
Chobe River Front
Chobe River Front
Chobe River Front
Chobe River Front
Chobe River Front
+15
  • Chobe Elephant Camp

    Day 7 - 9

    Situated on a rocky ridge overlooking the spectacular Chobe River Floodplains, Chobe Elephant Camp offers guests ample opportunities to explore the wild surroundings while providing a stunning viewpoint onto one of Botswana’s renowned reserve parks. This eco-friendly lodge presents an original contemporary African design reminiscent of the quintessential sub-Saharan farmsteads.
    Chobe Elephant Camp
    Chobe Elephant Camp
    Chobe Elephant Camp
    Chobe Elephant Camp
    Chobe Elephant Camp
    Chobe Elephant Camp
    +16

Day 7

Day Notes:

The safari then heads north towards a rustic camp at the edge of Chobe National Park, where you will stay 2 nights to explore the northern reaches of the park. This day will be a full day activity as we will do a full day of game drives through the Savuti area of the Chobe National Park towards the Chobe flood plains. You will have your lunch break en-route and arrive late afternoon at your lodge.

Khwai – Chobe: 200 km, 10 hrs (including game drives)

  • Check-out from Khwai Guest House

  • Transfer from Khwai Guest House to Chobe Elephant Camp

  • Full-day safari transfer to Chobe

  • Check-in to Chobe Elephant Camp

Day 8

Day Notes:

Time is spent in northern Chobe, a park which is incredibly rich in game due to the Chobe River providing water all year round. Large herds of elephant and buffalo are frequently seen. Due to the high density of herbivores in this area many predators, such as lions and leopards, can be found. While staying at Chobe Elephant Camp you will do a game drive and boat cruise within the Chobe National Park where you immerse yourself into this incredible area from both land and water.

  • Morning & afternoon safari activity

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
  • Pioneers Victoria Falls

    Day 9 - 11

    Surrounded by lush gardens and manicured lawns, this 50-room lodge offers plenty of space, comfort, and charm. Each room is tastefully decorated in a classic style and overlooks the gardens, creating a calm and relaxing atmosphere.
    Pioneers Victoria Falls
    Pioneers Victoria Falls
    Pioneers Victoria Falls
    Pioneers Victoria Falls
    Pioneers Victoria Falls
    Pioneers Victoria Falls
    +20

Day 9

Day Notes:

Today the journey takes you to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe (Visa required) where you will spend two nights at a comfortable lodge. The lodge team will assist you with arranging activities of your choice that you can enjoy during your stay (at own expense). Spend the afternoon at leisure, visiting the majestic falls or shop for curios. Dinner at own expense. 

  • Morning safari activity

  • Check-out from Chobe Elephant Camp

  • Transfer from Chobe Elephant Camp to Pioneers Victoria Falls

  • Check-in to Pioneers Victoria Falls

Day 10

Day Notes:

The lodge has an activities desk where you can make bookings for the day to explore Vic Falls town. Activities in Victoria Falls include White Water Rafting down the Zambezi Gorge, Canoeing on the upper Zambezi and Helicopter Flights over the Victoria Falls, please ask the lodge reception for further details if not pre-booked. Lunch and dinner at own expense. 

  • Day at leisure

  • White Water Rafting

  • Flight of the Angels Helicopter Experience (Zimbabwe)

  • The Zambezi Explorer

Day 11

  • Check-out from Pioneers Victoria Falls

  • Transfer from Pioneers Victoria Falls to Victoria Falls International Airport [VFA]

End of Itinerary

Destinations

Deception Valley Private Reserve
Botswana
Day 1-2

Deception Valley Private Reserve

Cocooned within pristine Kalahari bushveld along the northeastern boundary of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, Deception Valley Private Reserve derives its name from an optical illusion.
Xhumaga
Botswana
Day 3

Xhumaga

The small town of Xhumaga is situated in north-central Botswana and rests on the western bank of the Boteti River, flanking the Makgadikgadi National Park.
Khwai Community Area
Botswana
Day 4

Khwai Community Area

The Khwai area of the Okavango lies along the northern boundary of the Moremi Game Reserve.
Chobe River Front
Botswana
Day 7-8

Chobe River Front

The Chobe River forms the northern boundary of the Chobe National Park, renowned for its diverse and abundant game viewing opportunities.
Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)
Zimbabwe
Day 9-10

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

The Dune Camp
Deception Valley Private Reserve
Day 1-3

The Dune Camp

The Dune Camp is situated on a vegetated dune overlooking spectacular views of the Kalahari valleys.
Boteti River Camp
Xhumaga
Day 3-4

Boteti River Camp

Overlooking the riverbed, Boteti River Camp rests at the edge of Makgadikgadi National Park, near Khumaga Village, and is within reach of Nxai Pan National Park and Central Kalahari Game Reserve.
Khwai Guest House
Khwai Community Area
Day 4-7

Khwai Guest House

Tucked in the heart of the friendly rural village of Khwai, at the doorstep of the Moremi Game Reserve, Khwai Guest House opens the door to a true African experience, offering a pristine immersion into Botswana’s unique nature and culture. Welcoming guests into 6 ensuite rooms and 2 family units, Khwai Guest House offers a cosy nest from which to experience the traditional lifestyle of this small community set amongst one of the most spectacular wilderness locations of Botswana.
Chobe Elephant Camp
Chobe River Front
Day 7-9

Chobe Elephant Camp

Situated on a rocky ridge overlooking the spectacular Chobe River Floodplains, Chobe Elephant Camp offers guests ample opportunities to explore the wild surroundings while providing a stunning viewpoint onto one of Botswana’s renowned reserve parks.
Pioneers Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)
Day 9-11

Pioneers Victoria Falls

Surrounded by lush gardens and manicured lawns, this 50-room lodge offers plenty of space, comfort, and charm.

Low Season 2025

18 - 28 May, 10 - 20 June,  1 - 11 November, 11 - 21 November, 20 - 30 December

  • Price per person on 2 sharing basis: USD 3,955
  • Single supplement: USD 715

High Season 2025

7 - 17 July, 5 - 15 August, 4 - 14 September, 7 - 17 October

  • Price per person on 2 sharing basis: USD 4,360
  • Single supplement: USD 715

Low Season 2026

4-14 April, 20-30 May, 30 October - 9 November, 22 December 2026 - 1 January 2027

  • Price per person on 2 sharing basis:  USD 4,195
  • Single Supplement: USD 750

High Season 2026

12-22 June, 10-20 July, 7-17 August, 4-14 September, 4-14 October

  • Price per person on 2 sharing basis:  USD 4,580
  • Single Supplement: USD 750

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 & Zimbabwe – 11-day Eagle Safari – Group Tour

Trip was amazing, everything we were hoping it would be. The guides and staff were very friendly and accomodating. We had incredible wildlife sightings and enjoyed a great group of people.

Mitchell Scott
Amazing Trip

Botswana – Delta and Chobe Safari

The individual with whom we worked was knowledgeable, helpful, and very responsive; our requests were met; our experience with her was great.

Arthur Rosen
Helpful, and very responsive

Southern Africa – 13-Day – Botswana, Zimbabwe, & South Africa Adventure

From the minute I met Shannon, she wanted to make sure we had the best trip. She planned amazing experiences for my son and I. We went to Botswana, Zimbabwe and South Africa and everything was perfect. Whenever I had any questions, Shannon always got back to me right away! I definitely recommend her to plan this memorable trip.

Pierre Matta
Above and beyond for my son and I on our trip of a lifetime

Sheena Botswana

Completely fabulous from start to finish

I 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 was 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
United Kingdom