Highlights of Zimbabwe & Botswana

Overview

Discover the main attractions of Zimbabwe and neighbouring Botswana – two exceptional destinations that make the perfect pairing. This tour revels in their respective cultures and natural wonders. Experience the cacophony and spectacle of Victoria Falls; embark on safaris from land, air and water; visit a remote village for insights into rural life; and much more.

The Cox & Kings signature experiences

• – Find out all about Victoria Falls and its connection to pioneer David Livingstone from an expert

• – Visit townships alongside experienced local guides and go behind the scenes at Ndau art studio

• – Stay in handpicked safari lodges and tented camps set in the best wildlife- viewing locations

• – View the UNESCO-listed Okavango Delta from the air, including its sprawling forests and palm-fringed islands

• – No single supplement on selected departure dates (limited availability)

• – Small group size average 10 people (max 18)

Itinerary

Day 1: Fly to Victoria Falls

Fly overnight from London (regional connections available) to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe via Johannesburg, South Africa. (N)

Day 2: Victoria Falls

After time to freshen up, join your fellow travellers this evening for a pre-dinner talkfrom a special guest speaker, who shares tales of celebrated explorer David Livingstone. Overnight at Ilala Lodge (or similar). (D)

Day 3: Victoria Falls

Visit a remote village for the chance to watch daily rural life unfold. Enjoy an authentic African lunch at local institute, Dusty Road, before returning to your hotel for an afternoon at leisure. In the evening, dine aboard the Malachite on a Zambezi River cruise, featuring a brief history talk complemented by a sundown cocktail. Overnight at Ilala Lodge (or similar). (B, L, D)

Day 4: Victoria Falls

This morning, take a private guided tour of Victoria Falls. As well as a chance to see this natural wonder of the world up close, you will gain insight into the falls creation and geology, the surrounding rainforest eco-system, the daring exploits of colonial explorers, and local legends about The Smoke that Thunders. Visit the Elephant Walk shopping centre and art village for a special behind-the-scenes visit to Ndau Studio, where you will meet its local artists and craftsmen. This design house specialises in the creation of leather accessories as well as sterling-silver and bead jewellery. Lunch at the lauded Lookout Caf and spend the rest of your day at leisure. Overnight at Ilala Lodge (or similar). (B, L)

Day 5: Chobe National Park, Botswana

Cross the border and spend your afternoon at leisure, before driving into Chobe National Park on a classic safari drive. Chobe was Botswanas first national park, and is celebrated for the diversity of its wildlife. Overnight at Chobe Safari Lodge (or similar). (B, L, D)

Days 6 & 7: Chobe National Park

Alongside your fellow travellers, spend the next 2 days taking advantage of the myriad activities on offer at Chobe. Take to the water and view elephants drinking from the banks, enjoy classic safari drives or simply relax at your lodge enjoying the sounds of the African bush. Spend 2 nights at at Chobe Safari Lodge (or similar). (B, L, D)

Day 8: Okavango Delta

A short flight this morning delivers you onto the banks of Botswanas mighty Okavango Delta. With its expansive floodplains, lush forests and prolific game, this is the jewel in the crown for many visitors. Arrive in the afternoon for a thrilling water safari experience. Overnight at Mopiri or Mogotlho. (B, L, D)

Day 9: Okavango Delta

Youve another full day of wonderful wildlife watching ahead of you. Should water levels permit (typically late June to late September), cruise along the delta waters by mokoro, a traditional dug-out canoe that offers a different vantage point for witnessing life along the river. Overnight at Mopiri or Mogotlho. (B, L, D)

Days 10-11: Fly to the UK via Johannesburg

After a final safari drive this morning, travel to Maun for a transfer to Johannesburg. Here you catch your departure flight, landing in the UK early the next morning. Alternatively, extend your stay with an adventure in the Kalahari Desert or a city break in Cape Town. (B)

Meal basis:As per itinerary B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Between the months of July and September, the Okavango Delta floods. This increased water level provides some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities and allows for safari by mokoro canoe.

Small flights internally will have restricted luggage allowances of 20kg only, in soft-sided bags.

Private & tailor-made travel:This itinerary can be taken privately on a date that suits you, for which guideline prices are shown. Alternatively, it can be tailored to your exact requirements.