9 Day Best Of Northern Botswana & Victoria Falls – Mix of WildCamping & Lodges

Introducing the 9-Day Best Of Northern Botswana & Victoria Falls Tour

If you’re dreaming of the perfect African safari, this 9-day guided journey through northern Botswana and Victoria Falls might just be the adventure you’re looking for. It’s a carefully curated mix of wild camping, comfortable lodges, and breathtaking scenery, all led by expert guides.

With a focus on up-close wildlife encounters and authentic experiences, it offers a balanced blend of adventure and comfort, all at a reasonable price.

Two things we especially appreciate are the diverse habitats you’ll explore—from the lush waters of the Okavango Delta to the expansive savannahs of Savute—and how well-organized the logistics seem, ensuring smooth transitions between game drives and accommodations. The fully inclusive nature of the tour, covering meals, park fees, and transport, makes planning straightforward.

A potential consideration is the intensity—with early mornings and long game drives, it’s best suited for travelers ready for an active, immersive experience.

This tour appeals most to those who love wildlife, are eager to see Africa’s Big Five, and enjoy a mix of both camping and lodge stays. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of organizing each detail themselves.

Key Points

• Authentic wildlife encounters in prime Botswana reserves like Moremi and Savute
• Comfortable accommodation options ranging from wild camping to lodges
• Expert guides with a focus on local wildlife and habitat knowledge
• All-inclusive package covers meals, park fees, transport, and activities
• Flexible, customizable itinerary offers the chance to tailor your experience
• Excellent reviews highlight smooth organization and memorable experiences

A Practical Overview of the Tour

This 9-day safari is designed to showcase Botswana’s incredible wildlife and landscapes in a way that balances adventure with comfort. For roughly $3,048 USD per person, you get a well-rounded trip that includes everything from airport pickups in Maun to a farewell at Victoria Falls. Considering the inclusiveness—meals, park fees, transport—this price offers good value for an immersive, guided experience in some of Africa’s most renowned parks.

The tour is ideal for travelers who want a structured, worry-free experience but still crave authentic interactions with nature. The group size is limited to a maximum of nine travelers, fostering a more personal, engaging atmosphere. The overall duration and pace suit those who enjoy both daylong safaris and relaxing evenings under the stars.

Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: Arrival in Maun

Your journey begins with a pickup at Maun Airport, followed by settling into your accommodation. This initial day is designed for travelers to unwind, get familiar with the group, and prepare for the adventures ahead. Nothing fancy—just a chance to relax before the real excitement begins.

Day 2: Okavango Delta by Motorboat

The highlight here is the motorboat safari in the Okavango Delta, starting at 07:30 am. Expect a beautiful water-based exploration of one of Africa’s most iconic wetlands. As you glide through the water channels, you’ll see an incredible array of birdlife, maybe some elephants or crocodiles, and learn about the local tribes. A picnic lunch on an island offers a peaceful break, and an optional nature walk allows for more intimate wildlife viewing and plant identification.

This part of the tour is praised for its scenic beauty and expert guides who make the delta’s ecosystem come alive. One reviewer called it “an unforgettable experience,” and the boat ride is a real highlight for many.

Day 3-4: Exploring Moremi Game Reserve

Moving into the Moremi Wildlife Reserve, you’ll spend two days on game drives in a 4×4 open-sided vehicle, covering floodplains, lagoons, and forests. This area is a Big Five hotspot with recent re-introductions of Black and White Rhinos. These days are packed with opportunities to spot lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos.

Early mornings are best for predator sightings, as suggested by reviews praising the guides’ knowledge. The second day includes an overnight bush camp, where you’ll experience sleeping under the stars and enjoying stories around the campfire. This adds a layer of authenticity that many travelers find enriching.

Day 5-6: Transition to Savute

The journey continues with a camp move from Moremi to Savute, famous for its predator activity and iconic landscapes. The drive itself is part of the experience, with stops for picnics and wildlife viewing along scenic routes. The camp is set up in Savute, where you’ll spend two days on game drives and night safaris.

In Savute, predators like lions and hyenas are often active, especially early mornings. One reviewer notes the “early game drives” as being particularly rewarding, as predators are on the hunt at dawn. The evening game drives and campfire nights create a true bush experience.

Day 7: From Savute to Chobe Riverfront

The final game drive takes you from Savute to the Chobe Riverfront, with a stop for picnics and wildlife along the way. Arriving in Kasane, you’ll settle into a lodge with chalets and enjoy a 3-hour boat safari on the Chobe River. This cruise is renowned for its large herds of elephants and abundant birdlife—an ideal way to wrap up your wildlife adventure.

Day 8: Victoria Falls

A scenic transfer takes you to Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls, where you’ll enjoy a guided walk through the rainforest surrounding the falls. The views are spectacular, and you get close enough to hear the roar of water and see the spray rising from the gorge. In the evening, a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River** offers a relaxing end to your trip—perfect for reflection and photos.

Additional activities like white water rafting or visiting Devil’s Pool can be arranged on request, providing options for those craving extra adventure.

Day 9: Departure

After breakfast, the tour concludes with a transfer to Victoria Falls Airport, setting you up for your onward journey. This straightforward ending makes it easy to plan your next steps or flights.

Why This Tour Works Well

This itinerary’s strength lies in its diverse habitats and expert guiding. The inclusion of both wild camping and lodge stays provides a taste of authentic safari life without sacrificing comfort. We loved the way the tour balances long game drives with moments of relaxation, and the fully inclusive approach means you don’t have to worry about extra costs or logistics.

The reviews consistently praise the guides for their knowledge and passion, which really enhances the experience. As one said, “They showed us the animals and the plants, and it made all the difference.” And the scenic variety—from water-based delta safaris to open savannahs—keeps the adventure engaging from start to finish.

Potential downsides include the early mornings and long driving hours, which might tire some travelers. It’s a physically active trip that demands a reasonable level of fitness and enthusiasm for wildlife viewing.

Final Thoughts

This 9-day safari offers incredible value for anyone eager to see Botswana’s wildlife and Victoria Falls without the stress of planning every detail. The combination of diverse habitats, expert guides, and well-organized logistics makes it an appealing choice for adventurous travelers who want an authentic, immersive experience. The reviews reinforce that the trip is not only well-run but also deeply memorable.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive, well-balanced safari that offers both wildlife encounters and luxury moments, this tour is a smart pick. It suits those who value authenticity over luxury but still want comfortable accommodation and seamless logistics. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy long game drives, early mornings, and close wildlife observation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation is included throughout the trip, covering airport pickups, game drives, and transfers between parks and the falls.

Are meals included in the tour?
All meals are included as part of the package, making it easier to focus on the wildlife and scenery without additional planning.

What kind of accommodation will I stay in?
You’ll experience a mix of wild camping and lodges, with the camp set-up in savannah and park areas, and chalets at the Chobe Riverfront.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the itinerary is described as fully customizable, so you can discuss specific interests or activities with the provider.

How long in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 9 days in advance, but earlier bookings are recommended for better availability.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 9 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Are there optional activities?
Additional activities like white water rafting or visiting Devil’s Pool can be arranged on surcharge, depending on your interests.

What’s the best time of year to go?
While not specified, the tour runs year-round, and the best months depend on your preferred wildlife viewing or weather conditions.

Is the tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly stated, the active nature of the trip and early mornings suggest it’s better suited for adult travelers or older teens.

To sum it up, this safari offers a truly authentic taste of Botswana’s wilderness, paired with the convenience of expert guides and inclusive logistics. It’s an excellent choice for adventurous, wildlife-loving travelers seeking a memorable journey into Africa’s heart.