Southern Africa Overland Camping Safari Itinerary
Embark on a thrilling Southern Africa Overland Camping Safari that explores the diverse landscapes, rich wildlife, and cultural heritage of Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. This affordable safari journey takes you to iconic destinations such as the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, Victoria Falls, and Kruger National Park—perfect for adventurous travellers seeking immersive nature and game viewing experiences on a budget.
Quick Safari Overview
Start your Southern Africa Overland Camping Safari in Johannesburg, South Africa, then travel north to Botswana’s Khama Rhino Sanctuary. Glide through the Okavango Delta by mokoro canoe, visit the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, and enjoy a sunset boat cruise in Chobe National Park. Discover Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, go on safari in Hwange National Park, and track rhinos in Matobo National Park. End your adventure with cultural encounters and wildlife sightings in South Africa’s iconic Kruger National Park.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Johannesburg – South Africa
Your Southern Africa Overland Camping Safari begins in Johannesburg. Relax at your hotel or explore the vibrant city before attending a 6:00 pm tour briefing. Known as the ‘City of Gold’, Johannesburg offers insight into South Africa’s dynamic history and culture.
Accommodation: Hotel
Important Note: Attending the pre-departure meeting is essential. Consider arriving a day early if needed.
Day 2: Khama Rhino Sanctuary – Botswana
Cross into Botswana and visit the Khama Rhino Sanctuary. This community-based conservation area protects endangered rhinos and supports local communities. Enjoy an afternoon game drive to spot rhinos, giraffes, and other wildlife.
Travel Distance: 600 km (8–10 hrs)
Accommodation: Standard Camping
Included Activity: Game drive in Khama Rhino Sanctuary
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Maun – Botswana
Travel north to Maun, the gateway to the Okavango Delta. This lush inland delta forms a unique ecosystem in the Kalahari Desert. Camp on the outskirts of town and prepare for your delta exploration.
Travel Distance: 550 km (8–9 hrs)
Accommodation: Standard Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Days 4–5: Okavango Delta – Botswana
Experience the Okavango Delta’s tranquil beauty by traditional mokoro canoe and guided nature walks. Discover wildlife such as elephants, hippos, and birds in this untouched wilderness. Camp on a remote island with basic bush facilities for a truly wild experience.
Included Activities: Mokoro trip, sunrise bush walk
Accommodation: Bush Camping (no facilities)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (x2)
Day 6: Maun – Botswana
Return to Maun and visit a nearby village for a cultural experience. Optional: take a scenic flight over the Okavango Delta for stunning aerial views and possible wildlife sightings.
Travel Distance: 60 km (2–3 hrs)
Accommodation: Standard Camping
Included Activity: Mokoro trip, village visit
Optional Activity: Scenic flight over the Delta
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7: Nata & Makgadikgadi Salt Pans – Botswana
Drive to Nata and explore the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans on an open vehicle drive. These vast, arid salt flats offer dramatic scenery and seasonal birdlife after rains.
Travel Distance: 305 km (6–7 hrs)
Accommodation: Standard Camping
Included Activity: Makgadikgadi Salt Pans excursion
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 8: Chobe National Park – Botswana
Journey to Chobe National Park, known for its massive elephant herds. Enjoy a peaceful sunset boat cruise on the Chobe River, a fantastic way to see elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and other wildlife up close.
Travel Distance: 315 km (6–7 hrs)
Accommodation: Standard Camping
Included Activity: Sunset boat cruise on the Chobe River
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Days 9–10: Victoria Falls – Zimbabwe
Cross into Zimbabwe and visit the spectacular Victoria Falls, known locally as ‘Mosi oa Tunya’. Enjoy free time for adventure activities like white-water rafting, helicopter flights, or bungee jumping. Day 10 is free for optional excursions. Your guide will assist with bookings.
Travel Distance: 100 km (2–3 hrs)
Accommodation: Standard Camping (optional upgrades)
Optional Activities: Visit Victoria Falls, adventure sports, cultural tours
Meals: Breakfast (x2)
Stay tuned for the next section of the Southern Africa Overland Camping Safari itinerary covering Hwange, Matobo, cultural village visits, and Kruger National Park.