7 Day Botswana Explorer: Vic Falls to Maun (Camping Overland Safari)
Quick Itinerary Overview
Experience the best of Botswana on this budget-friendly Overland Camping Safari. Starting at the legendary Victoria Falls, cross into Botswana and camp on the Chobe River near Kasane. Enjoy a game-viewing boat cruise in Chobe National Park. Then travel into the Kalahari Desert to Nata, in the vast Makgadigadi Pans, before heading to Maun and travelling to the Khwai River floodplain of the Okavango Delta. Explore the delta waterways in a traditional mokoro trip and take a full-day safari in search of wildlife in the beautiful Moremi Game Reserve in the heart of the Okavango Delta. On returning to Maun, there is an option to take a scenic flight over the Okavango Delta to witness this natural marvel from above. Immerse yourself in the abundant natural beauty and thriving wildlife of Botswana on this Overland Camping Tour.
Responsible Travel Note:
During this trip, you are likely to encounter activities that encourage tourists to interact closely with wildlife, such as walking with lions or riding elephants. These operations are not supported, as they can harm Africa’s wild animals. Please refer to our safari anti-bucket list post for more information on responsible wildlife tourism.
Itinerary
Day 1: Victoria Falls – Zimbabwe
The Botswana Explorer tour begins today in the bustling town of Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, home to the majestic Victoria Falls. The waterfall, known as “Mosi-oa-Tunya” or “The Smoke That Thunders,” is the largest waterfall in the world by volume. You will camp in pre-erected dome tents at a Safari Camp close to the falls. Explore the village, enjoy thrilling activities like white-water rafting, or visit nearby game reserves.
Optional Activities: Falls Viewpoint, White-Water Rafting, Bungee Jump, Helicopter Flights, and more.
Meals: No Meals
Day 2: Victoria Falls to Kasane & Chobe National Park – Botswana
Today, we cross into Botswana and camp by the Chobe River in Kasane. Enjoy a game-viewing boat cruise in Chobe National Park, renowned for its large elephant populations and rich biodiversity.
Included Activities: Chobe National Park Boat Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Kasane to Nata (Makgadigadi Pans) – Botswana
Travel southward into the Kalahari Desert and arrive at the Makgadigadi Pans. This expanse of salt flats is a mesmerizing sight, and the area is home to desert elephants. Camp near a waterhole, where you can relax and watch wildlife.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Kasane to Maun & Khwai Conservation Area (Okavango Delta) – Botswana
We head for Maun, the gateway to the Okavango Delta. Enjoy an optional scenic flight over the delta, then transfer to smaller 4×4 vehicles for an excursion into the heart of the Okavango Delta. Camp near the Khwai River floodplain and take a traditional mokoro boat ride through the delta’s waterways.
Included Activities: Makgadigadi Pans Viewpoint, Mokoro Boat Excursion
Optional Activities: Scenic Flight over Okavango Delta
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Moremi Game Reserve – Botswana
Explore Moremi Game Reserve, a wildlife-rich area within the Okavango Delta. Search for the Africa Big 5—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros—and other animals such as cheetah, wild dogs, and various antelope species.
Included Activities: Full-Day Game Drive in Moremi Game Reserve
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Khwai River Area to Maun – Botswana
Take a final drive through the Okavango Delta and return to Maun. Here, you can enjoy another opportunity for a scenic flight or relax by the pool at the campsite.
Optional Activities: Scenic Flight over Okavango Delta, Cultural Village Tour, River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Maun – Botswana
After a hearty breakfast, the Botswana Overland Camping Safari concludes. Optional activities such as an Okavango Delta scenic flight are available before you continue your journey.
Optional Activities: Scenic Flight over Okavango Delta
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overland Tour Notes
We recommend booking your flights to arrive at least one day before the Botswana Explorer is scheduled and leaving a day after it ends to allow for delays. You may also wish to add pre- or post-tour accommodation to your booking for a more relaxed experience.