Zimbabwe/Namibia/Botswana
Safari by Water & Land: Zimbabwe, Namibia & Botswana
Program No. 23458RJ
Discover the wildlife and natural gems of southern Africa on this safari by land and water, searching for the “Big Five” as you explore Zimbabwe, Namibia and Botswana.
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Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
800-454-5768
Select your type of room
Price will update based on selection
Prices displayed below are based on per person,doubleoccupancy.
DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
May 30 - Jun 13, 2025
Starting at
14,499Aug 15 - Aug 29, 2025
Starting at
15,799Aug 29 - Sep 12, 2025
Starting at
15,799DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
May 30 - Jun 13, 2025
Starting at
18,499Aug 15 - Aug 29, 2025
Starting at
20,799Aug 29 - Sep 12, 2025
Starting at
20,799Not seeing the date you're looking for?
To be notified if dates of this program become available, click the button below.
15 days
14 nights
36 meals
12B 5BR 7L 12D
1
In Transit to Program
In Flight
3
Fly to Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls
4
Wildlife Trust, Local Community Projects, Free Time
Victoria Falls
5
About Dr. Livingstone, Transfer to Hwange, Safari Game Drive
Hwange National Park
6
Safari Game Drives, Bush Walk
Hwange National Park
7
Safari Game Drives, Importance of Termites
Hwange National Park
8
To the Riverboat, Sunset River Safari
Chobe River
12
Bush Walk, Delta Hydrology, Safari by Mokoro
Okavango Delta
13
Safari Game Drives
Okavango Delta
15
In Transit From Program
In Flight
At a Glance
Embark on the ultimate African safari by land and water on this incredible learning adventure in the heart of Zimbabwe, Namibia and Botswana. Beginning in Zimbabwe, admire the majesty of Victoria Falls, meet locals at grassroots community projects and explore Hwange National Park in search of lions, leopards, wild dogs and cheetahs. Then, board the luxurious Zambezi Queen in Namibia for a three-night voyage along the Chobe River, offering opportunities to search for wildlife along the water. Conclude your learning adventure in Botswana’s Okavango Delta where you’ll enjoy game drives on land and a chance to explore the delta’s waters by boat and mokoro, a traditional canoe.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Minimal walking. Participants must be able to endure bumpy rides in four-wheel drive vehicles for up to four hours, climb into/out of 4x4 vehicles with 18" step up, and be able to get on/off smaller tinder boats. Elevations up to 5,575 feet.
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Float along the Chobe River on a three-day voyage on board the luxurious Zambezi Queen to search for giraffes, zebras and elephants as they come to the river to drink.
- Search for wildlife in the Okavango Delta as you explore by vehicle, boat and mokoro — a traditional canoe.
- Marvel in the beauty of Victoria Falls and interact with locals during a field trip to grassroots community projects.
General Notes
Please refer to the “Travel Information” section on the Road Scholar website, the start/end time listed in your first informational packet or contact the provider if you plan on booking your own flights for correct arrival and departure dates. Due to the nature of this program, listening devices are not available.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Keith Chisnall
A local of northern Zimbabwe, Keith Chisnall relishes in showing the bush culture to travelers from around the world. As a child, Keith learned the medicinal value of bush plants, how to track animals, tribal customs and the indigenous flora and fauna, and his knowledge has only grown since then. He’s worked as an engineer, salesman and detective, but his most meaningful work has been in leading educational adventures. After over 20 years of experience leading groups in “Big Five” territory, you can rely on Keith to explain every aspect and every detail of the wilderness!
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Helen Malisan
View biography
Helen Malisan’s passion for exploration began in high school when she visited Italy, her ancestral country. After completing her final year at school, she immediately joined South African Airways where she worked for 10 years. In 1993, her love for nature and South Africa inspired her to complete the necessary courses to become a wilderness excursion leader, spurring her career as a safari leader in Namibia and Zambia. Helen says her interest in people, nature and animals inspires her work.
Lisa Reed
View biography
Lisa Reed was born in Zimbabwe, spent her school years in South Africa, and now lives in Botswana. She has worked or visited most Southern and East African safari destinations, and has managed safari camps on her own and with others since being in Botswana. Lisa has a natural affinity with adults and children, and enjoys passing on her years of experience and knowledge to the next generation. She has been leading safaris for Road Scholar for more than 15 years.
Keith Chisnall
View biography
A local of northern Zimbabwe, Keith Chisnall relishes in showing the bush culture to travelers from around the world. As a child, Keith learned the medicinal value of bush plants, how to track animals, tribal customs and the indigenous flora and fauna, and his knowledge has only grown since then. He’s worked as an engineer, salesman and detective, but his most meaningful work has been in leading educational adventures. After over 20 years of experience leading groups in “Big Five” territory, you can rely on Keith to explain every aspect and every detail of the wilderness!
Sam Mushandu
View biography
Sam was born in a small village in southeast Zimbabwe. Growing up in the village gave him an appreciation for nature, particularly during holidays when he would herd his family’s cattle in the bush. Sam attended Bulawayo Commercial College and is an award-winning safari educator. He has lead learning safaris throughout southern Africa, including top destinations like Hwange and Kafue National Parks. Sam lives with his wife and family in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and enjoys history and fishing. (Be prepared to hear some fishing stories!)
Suggested Reading List
(14 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Safari by Water & Land: Zimbabwe, Namibia & Botswana
Program Number: 23458
Don't Let's Go to the Dogs Tonight: An African Childhood
A worthy heir to Isak Dinesen and Beryl Markham, Alexandra Fuller remembers her African childhood with candor and sensitivity. Though it is a diary of an unruly life in an often inhospitable place, it is suffused with Fuller's endearing ability to find laughter, even when there is little to celebrate. Fuller's debut is unsentimental and unflinching but always captivating. In wry and sometimes hilarious prose, she stares down disaster and looks back with rage and love at the life of an extraordinary family in an extraordinary time.
The Harmless People
A classic study of the Bushmen of the Kalahari. It’s an account of the author’s fieldwork, strong on the character of the people.
The Big Conservation Lie
This book takes the reader through Kenya’s conservation ‘industry’ and the players therein with all their prejudices, weaknesses and commitment to causes. It is a call to indigenous Africans to claim their place at the table where the management of their natural resources is being discussed, and invites well-meaning donors to look beyond the romantic images and detect the possible role of their money in the disenfranchisement of a people.
The Safari Companion
An encyclopedic guide to the behavior of Africa’s mammals by a noted scientist.
Southern Africa Wildlife, A Visitor's Guide
A popular, photographic guide to the mammals, birds, reptiles and habitats south of the Zambezi. With 300 color photographs and illuminating text.
Glory
Award-winning author follows the fall of the Old Horse, the long-serving leader of a fictional country, and the drama that follows for a nation of animals on the path to true liberation. Inspired by the unexpected fall by coup in 2017 of Robert G. Mugabe, Zimbabwe’s president of nearly four decades, Glory shows a country's imploding, narrated by a chorus of animal voices.
Out of Darkness, Shining Light
So begins Petina Gappah's powerful novel of exploration and adventure in nineteenth-century Africa—the captivating story of the loyal men and women who carried explorer and missionary Dr. Livingstone's body, his papers and maps, fifteen hundred miles across the continent of Africa, so his remains could be returned home to England and his work preserved there.
Okavango, Africa’s Last Eden
In this handsome volume, master wildlife photographer Franz Lanting captures the wildlife and habitats of the Okavango
Watch My Tracer
A third-generation Rhodesian tells the story of his upbringing on a farm and his days learning to track and survive in the bush that would assist him during the Rhodesian Civil War as a part of the clandestine operation unit known as the Pachedu.
The Last Elephants
African savanna elephants--among the most magnificent and beloved of our fellow mammals--are an extraordinary, social, and intelligent species. The Last Elephants, an homage to these animals and a clarion call for their preservation, is based upon a shocking finding: savanna elephant populations across Africa are being decimated, with two to three murdered every hour for their ivory. Without action, these elephants soon will vanish from our world. They are a species in imminent danger of extinction, and it is up to us to save them.
Whatever You Do, Don't Run: True Tales Of A Botswana Safari Guide
These safari stories are entertaining, humorous and educational. Enjoy true tales from top safari guide Peter Allison.
Africa Is Not a Country: Notes on a Bright Continent
So often, Africa has been depicted simplistically as a uniform land of famines and safaris, poverty and strife, stripped of all nuance. This book offers stories that bring to life Africa’s rich diversity, communities, and histories.
Elephant Dawn
In 2001, Sharon Pincott traded her privileged life as a high-flying corporate executive to start a new one with the Presidential Elephants of Zimbabwe. She was unpaid, untrained, self-funded and arrived with the starry-eyed idealism of most foreigners during early encounters with Africa. For thirteen years - the worst in Zimbabwe's volatile history - this intrepid Australian woman lived in the Hwange bush fighting for the lives of these elephants, forming an extraordinary and life-changing bond with them.
Fodor’s Complete Guide to African Safaris
This guidebook is packed with maps, carefully curated recommendations, and everything else you need to simplify your trip-planning process and make the most of your time.
Program No.
23458
Duration
15 days
Program Begins
Johannesburg
Program Concludes
Okavango Delta
Group Type
Small Group
Activity Level
At a Glance
Embark on the ultimate African safari by land and water on this incredible learning adventure in the heart of Zimbabwe, Namibia and Botswana. Beginning in Zimbabwe, admire the majesty of Victoria Falls, meet locals at grassroots community projects and explore Hwange National Park in search of lions, leopards, wild dogs and cheetahs. Then, board the luxurious Zambezi Queen in Namibia for a three-night voyage along the Chobe River, offering opportunities to search for wildlife along the water. Conclude your learning adventure in Botswana’s Okavango Delta where you’ll enjoy game drives on land and a chance to explore the delta’s waters by boat and mokoro, a traditional canoe.)
Best of all, you'll...
- Float along the Chobe River on a three-day voyage on board the luxurious Zambezi Queen to search for giraffes, zebras and elephants as they come to the river to drink.
- Search for wildlife in the Okavango Delta as you explore by vehicle, boat and mokoro — a traditional canoe.
- Marvel in the beauty of Victoria Falls and interact with locals during a field trip to grassroots community projects.
General Notes
Please refer to the “Travel Information” section on the Road Scholar website, the start/end time listed in your first informational packet or contact the provider if you plan on booking your own flights for correct arrival and departure dates. Due to the nature of this program, listening devices are not available.
Featured Expert
Keith Chisnall
A local of northern Zimbabwe, Keith Chisnall relishes in showing the bush culture to travelers from around the world. As a child, Keith learned the medicinal value of bush plants, how to track animals, tribal customs and the indigenous flora and fauna, and his knowledge has only grown since then. He’s worked as an engineer, salesman and detective, but his most meaningful work has been in leading educational adventures. After over 20 years of experience leading groups in “Big Five” territory, you can rely on Keith to explain every aspect and every detail of the wilderness!
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Helen Malisan
Helen Malisan’s passion for exploration began in high school when she visited Italy, her ancestral country. After completing her final year at school, she immediately joined South African Airways where she worked for 10 years. In 1993, her love for nature and South Africa inspired her to complete the necessary courses to become a wilderness excursion leader, spurring her career as a safari leader in Namibia and Zambia. Helen says her interest in people, nature and animals inspires her work.
Lisa Reed
Lisa Reed was born in Zimbabwe, spent her school years in South Africa, and now lives in Botswana. She has worked or visited most Southern and East African safari destinations, and has managed safari camps on her own and with others since being in Botswana. Lisa has a natural affinity with adults and children, and enjoys passing on her years of experience and knowledge to the next generation. She has been leading safaris for Road Scholar for more than 15 years.
Sam Mushandu
Sam was born in a small village in southeast Zimbabwe. Growing up in the village gave him an appreciation for nature, particularly during holidays when he would herd his family’s cattle in the bush. Sam attended Bulawayo Commercial College and is an award-winning safari educator. He has lead learning safaris throughout southern Africa, including top destinations like Hwange and Kafue National Parks. Sam lives with his wife and family in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and enjoys history and fishing. (Be prepared to hear some fishing stories!)
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Minimal walking. Participants must be able to endure bumpy rides in four-wheel drive vehicles for up to four hours, climb into/out of 4x4 vehicles with 18" step up, and be able to get on/off smaller tinder boats. Elevations up to 5,575 feet.
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List: 14 Books
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call
800-454-5768
All itineraries and excursions are subject to change. Weather and water conditions may affect the progress of the ship, and we may miss ports if it is not safe to dock. The operators reserve the right to change the content and duration of excursions without prior notice and so the cruise itinerary should always be regarded as provisional. Whenever possible, Road Scholar’s published daily schedule will indicate port arrival and departure times. Prior to departure, if there is a major change, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
15 days
14 nights
What's Included
36 meals | 12B | 5BR | 7L | 12D |
7 expert-led lectures
22 expert-led field trips
3 flights during the program
An experienced Group Leader
12 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
In Transit to Program
Location:
In Flight
Day
2
Arrive Johannesburg, Check-in, Welcome Dinner, Orientation
Location:
Johannesburg
Meals:
D
Stay:
City Lodge Hotel Eastgate
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 10 miles, approximately 1/4 hour. Hotel check-in from 2:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
After arriving at the hotel and checking in, take some time to freshen up and relax before our welcome dinner.
Dinner:
At the hotel, we’ll have an a la carte welcome dinner including a welcome drink, coffee, tea, and bottled water.
Evening:
Orientation: The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the schedule and any changes, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. This is a Road Scholar Adventures Afloat program. In addition to Road Scholar exclusive lectures, field trips, and activities, you are invited to take advantage of activities and events offered by the cruise line that are separate from Road Scholar. Routes, field trips, and excursions are subject to change as weather and river conditions including water levels could require altering the itinerary and/or the progress of the riverboat, making it run late and sometimes miss ports if it cannot dock. The cruise itinerary should therefore be regarded as provisional. The operators reserve the right to change the content of field trips and excursions without prior notice. The time available in each port is set by the cruise line. Whenever possible, the Road Scholar daily schedule indicates port arrival and departure times (subject to change by the cruise line). This may mean that free time in port is limited. Regardless of the time in port, Road Scholar delivers a robust educational program. We are fortunate to have as our Group Leader a knowledgeable expert who will also serve as our primary lecturer for most of the program. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Continue getting to know your fellow participants, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Day
3
Fly to Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls
Location:
Victoria Falls
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Ilala Lodge
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 10 miles, approximately 1/4 hour. Flight time approximately 1.5 hours. Getting in/out of a minibus; driving about 15 miles, approximately 1/2 hour. Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day; mostly flat, paved paths.
Breakfast:
At the hotel, the expansive breakfast buffet offers choices such as eggs and omelettes, waffles, bacon, sausage, tomatoes, mushrooms, cold meats, cheeses, cold cereals, fresh fruit, pastries, milk, fruit juices, coffee, tea, water.
Morning:
We will check out of the hotel and transfer via motorcoach to Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo Airport where we will board our flight to Victoria Falls Airport in Zimbabwe.
Lunch:
In flight meal.
Afternoon:
Arriving at Victoria Falls Airport, we will clear customs and immigration; please be aware that long lines can sometimes cause delays while obtaining a visa. We will then transfer via minibus to our lodge and check in to our rooms. Next, we’ll drive a short distance to see Victoria Falls on the Zimbabwean side. Upon our entrance to the park, we will walk along the path with commentary from the Group Leader about the formation of the falls, as well as the local flora and birdlife seen. Since the waterfall spans the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, it is visible from both countries, but the majority of the water falls on the Zimbabwean side. Viewing the Falls from this side offers numerous overlooks and truly gives us a feeling for the full majesty of this natural wonder. What we call Victoria Falls is known as Mosi oa-Tunya (the smoke that thunders) in the language of the Lozi people. One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, this is also considered the largest and most spectacular waterfall anywhere with a height of 360 feet (108 meters) and a width of 5,603 feet (1,708 meters), awesome in size and power as the Zambezi River rushes over an abrupt chasm. Its English name was given by Scottish explorer David Livingstone, the first European known to have visited here in 1855, in honor of Queen Victoria. We will return to the lodge with time to freshen up and relax before dinner.
Dinner:
At the lodge, we will have a 3-course, set menu dinner, plus coffee, tea, water; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
4
Wildlife Trust, Local Community Projects, Free Time
Location:
Victoria Falls
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Ilala Lodge
Activity Note
Getting in/out of a mini-bus; driving about 30 miles round-trip, approximately 1 hour total. Walking approximately 1/2 mile; uneven terrain; periods of standing; potentially hot temperatures.
Breakfast:
Lodge buffet.
Morning:
By minibus, we will transfer to the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust, where we will learn about how the Trust’s local conservation efforts are making a major impact in the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA TFCA). The Trust has four main areas of operation: Rescue and Rehabilitation; Wildlife Research; Wildlife Disease and Forensics Laboratory; and Community Outreach. In the company of a local expert, our hour-long visit will incorporate an overview of the Trust and its facilities, including the wildlife rehabilitation area. Then, we will reboard our minibus and drive back into town to visit two community projects in Victoria Falls; visits to these projects are done on a non-commercialized, authentic and interactive basis with a view to a genuine and meaningful interaction. Here, we will have the chance to meet members of the community and see how they live. From the village, we will transfer to our lunch venue.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant in Victoria Falls, we will have a buffet meal featuring traditional Zimbabwean dishes, plus water, tea and coffee. As we interact with our hosts, we’ll learn a bit about life and cooking traditions in this part of Zimbabwe. Other beverages are available for purchase.
Afternoon:
Free Time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most in the town of Victoria Falls. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. In the early evening, we will gather at the lodge with our Group Leader for an overview of Zimbabwe.
Dinner:
Lodge plated meal.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
5
About Dr. Livingstone, Transfer to Hwange, Safari Game Drive
Location:
Hwange National Park
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Khulu Bush Camp
Activity Note
Getting in/out of a minibus; driving about 115 miles, approximately 3 hours. Getting in/out of open-air 4x4 vehicles. Afternoon game drive 3 to 4 hours; evening game drive about 1 hour.
Breakfast:
Lodge buffet.
Morning:
A noted local historian will join us to discuss the story of Scottish explorer Dr. David Livingstone, who first visited Victoria Falls more than 150 years ago, and whose journeys laid the groundwork for the Colonial era that followed. Then, after checking out of the lodge, we will board our minibus and head south to Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe’s premier safari destination. Hwange is legendary for its wonderful array of wildlife, particularly the massive herds of elephant and buffalo. Shallow pans are spread throughout the park, around which wildlife congregate, making for excellent and reliable game viewing. Elephant, Cape buffalo, sable, roan, southern giraffe, blue wildebeest, impala and sometimes even gemsbok (oryx) can be seen here. This park is one of the best for predators. Lion, leopard, wild dog and cheetah are regularly sighted, along with the smaller African wildcat, serval, honey badger, civet and spotted hyena. Bird life in the area is also prolific, with more than 400 species found.
Lunch:
At the camp, we’ll have a buffet lunch with a starter, main dish, side dish, and dessert, plus local brand alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
We will have some time during the heat of the day to rest, relax, and enjoy the camp's amenities. Following afternoon tea, we will embark on our first safari game drive of the program. We will move slowly through the plains in open-air 4x4 vehicles, searching for wildlife, birds, and the unique flora resident in the park. Each vehicle will have its own local safari expert. We will take a short break before dusk for drinks and snacks, a tradition referred to as “sundowners.” Upon completion of our game drive, we will return to the camp with time to freshen up before dinner.
Dinner:
At the camp, we’ll have a plated meal with salad or starter, main course with side dish, and dessert, plus local brand alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages included; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
We’ll set out on a short night game drive with a local safari expert in search of nocturnal species that may be active in the area. With luck, we may spot civet, genet, bushbaby, pearl spotted owl, African scops owl, and Verreaux’s eagle-owl.
Day
6
Safari Game Drives, Bush Walk
Location:
Hwange National Park
Meals:
B,BR,D
Stay:
Khulu Bush Camp
Activity Note
Getting in/out of open-air 4x4 vehicles. Early morning and afternoon game drives are approximately 3 to 4 hours each; evening game drive is about 1 hour. Walking about 1 mile on morning bush walk, approximately 1 hour; uneven, sandy terrain.
Breakfast:
Very early at the camp, we’ll have a light buffet with cold cereal, fresh fruit, and rusks (South African-style biscotti), plus coffee, tea, water.
Morning:
In the early hours of the day, we will head out on a game drive in search of elephants, giraffes, zebra, kudu, impala, and big cats such as lion and leopard. During our game drive, we will take a short break for coffee, tea, and rusks before returning to camp midmorning.
Brunch:
At the camp, we’ll have a buffet with hot and cold breakfast and lunch dishes, plus local brand alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
In the company of a safari specialist, we’ll set out from the camp for a bush walk where we may encounter wildlife and birdlife, as well as explore the little surprises in the bush. You may wish to take some time on your own to rest during the heat of the day and enjoy the camp's amenities. Following tea, we will embark on a late afternoon game drive. Keep an eye out for the diverse birdlife in the area such as Wahlberg's eagle, swallow-tailed bee-eater, crested guinea fowl, and Bradfield's hornbill. Following sundowners, we will return to the camp for dinner.
Dinner:
Camp plated meal.
Evening:
We’ll set out on a short night game drive in search of nocturnal species that may be active in the area.
Day
7
Safari Game Drives, Importance of Termites
Location:
Hwange National Park
Meals:
B,BR,D
Stay:
Khulu Bush Camp
Activity Note
Getting in/out of open-air 4x4 vehicles. Early morning and afternoon game drives are approximately 3 to 4 hours each; evening game drive is about 1 hour. Walking about 1 mile on morning bush walk, approximately 1 hour; uneven, sandy terrain.
Breakfast:
Very early at the camp, light buffet.
Morning:
We will embark on an early morning game drive in the area, exploring tracks not previously driven, searching for the animals and birds that may be active during the morning hours.
Brunch:
Camp buffet.
Afternoon:
We’ll set out on a bush walk in the area led by a safari specialist, then some time to escape the heat of the day. We will gather for a teatime lecture by our Group Leader on the importance of termites in the ecosystem. We’ll then board our safari vehicles for a late afternoon game drive in the area, returning to camp at dusk.
Dinner:
Camp plated meal.
Evening:
We’ll set out for a short night game drive to look for nocturnal species. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
8
To the Riverboat, Sunset River Safari
Location:
Chobe River
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Zambezi Queen Collection’s Zambezi Queen
Activity Note
Flight time 1/2 hour; Getting in/out of mini-bus; driving about 70 miles, approximately 2 hours (depending on immigration at the borders). Getting on/off tender boats.
Breakfast:
Camp buffet.
Morning:
We will have time to pack our bags before checking out and transferring the short distance to the Hwange National Park airport, where we will board a private charter flight back to Victoria Falls. Upon arrival in Victoria Falls, we will be transferred to a local restaurant for lunch.
Lunch:
At a restaurant with scenic views of Victoria Falls, we’ll enjoy a set menu, 2-course plated meal with bottled water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
There will be several changes of vehicle on our way to the riverboat. We will drive to the Zimbabwe-Botswana border then change vehicles to pass through Botswana immigration. From there, we will board tender boats and ride to the Namibia immigration facility for entry clearance. The tender boats will then take us to the riverboat moored on the Namibian side of the Chobe River, where we’ll settle into our cabins and have light snacks. On one side of the river lies the Caprivi Strip in Namibia, and on the other side, Chobe National Park, Botswana. We may be able to spot wildlife from the riverboat as it cruises along the Chobe River. As the sun sets, the scenery will become washed in a golden glow, and we will look for varied wildlife that may be present, such as some of the estimated 120,000 elephant that live in the area. Before dinner, we will gather for a welcome drink and brief area overview with the boat’s captain.
Dinner:
Aboard the riverboat, we’ll have a 4-course plated meal with a nightly soup and two choices each of starter, main dish, and dessert courses, plus local brand beer, wine and nonalcoholic beverages included; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure. Enjoy the sounds of the African bush from the comfort of our luxurious suites.
Day
9
Choice of Morning Activity, Elephant Behavior, Boat Safari
Location:
Chobe River
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Zambezi Queen Collection’s Zambezi Queen
Activity Note
Getting on/off tender boats. Morning and afternoon activities last for 2-3 hours. Walking up to 1 mile for village visit; periods of standing; potentially hot temperatures.
Breakfast:
Aboard the riverboat, breakfast will be a buffet featuring cold cereals, fresh fruit, pastries and breads. Hot items such as eggs, bacon, sausage, tomatoes and mushrooms will be cooked to order. Fruit juices, coffee, tea, milk and water provided.
Morning:
We will have a choice of early morning, pre-breakfast activities provided by the Zambezi Queen: 1) an early morning safari by boat, searching the river's banks for the myriad of birds such as pied kingfisher, sacred ibis, blue heron, goliath heron, saddle-billed storks and little egrets; 2) a visit to a local village on the Caprivi Strip, where interaction with the villagers will provide a glimpse into what life is like in the area; or 3) fishing for a chance to hook and release the mighty tiger fish, as well as African pike, Zambezi yellowfish, or one of the many species of bream. Upon the conclusion of our chosen activities, we will return to the riverboat for breakfast. Mid-morning, as the heat of the day starts to bring the larger mammals down to the river to drink, we will board our tender boats for a boat safari, searching for mammals such as elephant, cape buffalo, impala, kudu, and giraffe. We will return to the riverboat in the early afternoon for lunch.
Lunch:
Aboard the riverboat, the lunch buffet offers choices such as meat dishes, vegetable salads, pasta, a cheese board, breads, dessert, plus local brand beer, wine and nonalcoholic beverages included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
We will have the hottest part of the day to rest, relax, and enjoy the boat's amenities. In the midafternoon, we will gather with our Group Leader for a lecture on elephant behavior and social structure. We will then board tender boats for a late afternoon safari, looking for wildlife and birdlife along the river's banks. Returning to the boat at dusk, we will have time to freshen up and relax before dinner.
Dinner:
Riverboat plated meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
10
Choice of Activity, Human-Wildlife Conflict, Boat Safari
Location:
Chobe River
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Zambezi Queen Collection’s Zambezi Queen
Activity Note
Getting on/off tender boats. Morning and afternoon activities last for 2-3 hours.
Breakfast:
Riverboat buffet.
Morning:
We will again have a choice of early morning, pre-breakfast activities provided by the Zambezi Queen: 1) an early morning birding-focused boat safari; 2) fishing on the Chobe River. Upon completion of our chosen morning activity, we will return to the riverboat for breakfast. Mid-morning, we will re-board our tender boats for a safari searching for the larger wildlife along the river, returning in the early afternoon for lunch.
Lunch:
Shipboard buffet.
Afternoon:
The midday will be ours to rest, relax, and enjoy the boat's amenities. Midafternoon, we’ll join our Group Leader for a lecture on human-wildlife conflict and how it is being managed in the area. In the late afternoon, we will board tender boats for a safari along the river's banks, looking for wildlife that may have eluded us thus far. We will return to the riverboat at dusk.
Dinner:
Riverboat plated meal.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
11
Transfer to Okavango Delta, Overview of Botswana, Game Drive
Location:
Okavango Delta
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Splash Camp
Activity Note
Total transfer time approximately 2.5 hours, including border crossings. Flight time approximately 1 hour. Getting in/out of open-air 4X4 safari vehicles. Game drives last for 3-4 hours.
Breakfast:
Riverboat buffet.
Morning:
We will look for animals along the banks as the riverboat cruises to its final mooring spot. Upon disembarking the Zambezi Queen, we will transfer via tender boat and vehicle back through Namibian and Botswana immigration formalities, making our way to Kasane Airport in Botswana. From Kasane, we will board our light aircraft charter flight bound for the private Kwara Reserve, in the heart of the Okavango Delta. Upon landing at the reserve's dirt airstrip, we will be met by our local safari experts and transferred in open-air safari vehicles to the camp, arriving in time for a late lunch.
Lunch:
At the camp, we will have a buffet meal with hot and cold dishes, salads, a cheese board, and breads plus local brand alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
We will have the midday to settle in to our rooms and enjoy the camp's amenities. The camp has been built around an open area, known as a "pan," that attracts animals year-round, so animal viewing may be possible from the comfort of our private decks! Over afternoon tea, we will gather with our Group Leader for a discussion of Botswana's history, politics, and local cultures. We will then board open-air safari vehicles for a game drive in the private reserve, in the company of our local safari specialists. We will seek out the vast herds of animals resident in the area, including predators such as wild dog, leopard, lion, and cheetah. Just before sunset, we will make a rest stop of snacks and sundowners. Continuing our drive after dusk, we will use a spotlight to search for nocturnal animals that may be in the area before returning to camp for dinner.
Dinner:
In camp, we will have a 3-course meal with plated appetizer and dessert and main course buffet, plus local brand alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages included; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
12
Bush Walk, Delta Hydrology, Safari by Mokoro
Location:
Okavango Delta
Meals:
B,BR,D
Stay:
Splash Camp
Activity Note
Bush walk about 1 mile, approximately 2 hours; uneven ground. Getting in/out of mokoros (canoe-like vessels); activity lasts 2 to 3 hours.
Breakfast:
At the camp, we will have a light buffet with choices such as hot porridge, cold cereals, fresh fruit, rusks, milk, fruit juice, coffee, tea, water.
Morning:
We will embark on a bush walk in the reserve with a local safari specialist. We will learn to identify tracks, spoor, and other signs to discern the small creatures in the bush, while also looking for the plentiful bird life in the area. We will return to camp for brunch.
Brunch:
At the camp, the substantial brunch buffet will offer hot and cold breakfast and lunch dishes plus local brand alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
We will rest, relax, and enjoy the camp's amenities during the midday heat. Over afternoon tea, our Group Leader will give a lecture on the geology and hydrology of the Okavango Delta. In the late afternoon, we will embark on a safari by mokoro, the local, traditional dug-out canoe. Each mokoro can take two riders. A local safari specialist will stand at the back and push the mokoro with a long pole, providing commentary on what we see. We will keep an eye out for the Angolan painted frog, one of the smallest residents in the Delta, as well as the plentiful bird life in the area. We will disembark from the mokoros at dusk, enjoying sundowners in a scenic location before returning to camp with time to freshen up before dinner.
Dinner:
Camp meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
13
Safari Game Drives
Location:
Okavango Delta
Meals:
B,BR,D
Stay:
Splash Camp
Activity Note
Getting in/out of open-air 4X4 safari vehicles. Early morning and afternoon game drives are approximately 3 to 4 hours each.
Breakfast:
Camp light buffet.
Morning:
We will board our safari vehicles to explore more of the reserve in the company of our local specialists, returning to camp midmorning.
Brunch:
Camp buffet.
Afternoon:
The midday will be free to rest, relax, and enjoy our last full day in Africa. Following afternoon tea, we will head out on our last afternoon safari game drive of the program, seeking out wildlife that may have eluded us thus far. Our safari will continue past dusk, allowing the chance of seeing any nocturnal animals active in the area. We will return to camp for dinner.
Dinner:
At camp, share favorite experiences with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure tomorrow.
Day
14
Game Drive, Fly To Johannesburg, Program Concludes
Location:
In Flight
Meals:
B,BR
Activity Note
Getting in/out of minibus. Flight to Maun approximately 1/2 hour. Flight from Maun to Johannesburg approximately 1.5 hours. See your program’s travel details regarding transfers.
Breakfast:
Camp buffet.
Morning:
We will have one last safari game drive this morning, returning in time to freshen up at the camp and have brunch before starting the journey home.
Brunch:
Lodge buffet.
Afternoon:
Following brunch, we will be transferred to the local airstrip for our light aircraft charter flight to Maun. We will then board a commercial flight from Maun to Johannesburg, South Africa. This concludes our program. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
Day
15
In Transit From Program
Location:
In Flight
Morning:
Arrive North America.
MEALS
36 Meals
12 Breakfasts
7 Lunches
5 Brunches
12 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Oct 31, 2025 - Nov 14, 2025
- May 09, 2025 - May 23, 2025
- May 30, 2025 - Jun 13, 2025
- Aug 15, 2025 - Aug 29, 2025
- Aug 29, 2025 - Sep 12, 2025
- Sep 19, 2025 - Oct 03, 2025
- Oct 31, 2025 - Nov 14, 2025
Participant Reviews
Based on 22 Reviews
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As an experienced world traveler, this was a trip of a lifetime especially if your guide is Honest!
— Review left October 6, 2024
Trip of a lifetime! If you every have considered an African photo safari, look no further. Everything you could want or imagine. Especially if your guide is Honest.
— Review left October 6, 2024
We took thousands of photos, and some of them turned out really well, but none of them capture the immensity, the power, the aura of watching a lioness licking Zebra blood off the face of her cub, of watching Painted Dog pubs greeting their adults upon their return, of being surrounded by elephants while in a game boat on the Chobe River, of catching a 15 pound catfish. We were greeted by singing and dancing at every camp we entered, and always welcomed with lemongrass-scented, cool washclothes after every game drive. The accommodations and cuisine were amazing. If you can handle VERY bumpy roads, and want real African adventure, we would recommend this experience to you.
— Review left October 5, 2024
This was our first trip to Africa and it was amazing and filled with animals and education. It is a life changing and humbling experience to see this area of the world and learn about the impact of climate change on the people and animals. The safari camps in Hwange and Okavango Delta were perfect; very nice accommodations and the staff were so friendly and helpful; the food was delicious and they were so accommodating on special dietary needs. Staying on the Zambezi Queen was a perfect break between the two camps. The tender boats were comfortable and brought us so close to the animals. You can't beat taking an afternoon siesta watching the animals on shore. Splash Camp, our last stay, was more like my image of the African savannahs. The animals came and went through the camp at night, so you fell asleep to the sounds of elephants and hyenas. Our guide, Onx Manga, was instrumental in making this trip the best. His knowledge of wildlife, history and culture provided a full picture of the area. I wished I could remember all the information he shared. I will say the heat at Okavango was intense and the jeep rides a test of one's stamina but so worth it. Climbing into the jeeps requires some strength and flexibility. The pay off is being 12-15' from the animals. Priceless. I would definitely repeat this trip or any other Road Scholar Safari trip. It was outstanding and worth the cost.
— Review left September 24, 2024
This was an outstanding program! The itinerary was excellent and the opportunities to view all sorts of wildlife were nearly continuous. Johann Roscher is an excellent program leader: warm, knowledgeable, approachable, attentive, and helpful. Most days started early and all were packed with memorable experiences for our convivial group.
— Review left June 25, 2024
I just got back from the most wonderful trip of my life….and I’ve traveled extensively. Did a lot of research about RS safari trips…..this trip was a perfect balance……Victoria Falls……great hotel and local shopping if you want…..then 3 days lovely Safari camp nights with elephants drinking from the pool and electric blankets in the bed which were preheated during our tent turndown. …….then onto the Zambezi Queen……..loved it too……different experience……twice daily tender boats……hippos, giraffes……and more……..finally Botswana……THE BEST……it is so remote BUT worth the trip……..beautiful accommodations and superior staff……BUT NO WIFI…….relax……unplug.
I was very worried as a 73 year old able-bodied widow about tummy issues, mosquitoes and being scared by large animals…….. NO WORRY……go now…..you won’t regret it but “Africa time”………means delays.
— Review left June 15, 2024
Our second trip with Lisa. She is great.
— Review left June 5, 2024
This itinerary was a perfect mix of land and water based activities, without a dull moment and we enjoyed it all. Lisa Reed, our guide and the friendly staff in each location, made our time enjoyable and they kept us safe! This part of Africa is amazing and so are the people.
First, we enjoyed our time at the majestic Victoria Falls and then went on to have many bumpy safari rides through the reserves, where we had many close encounters with wild animals. We appreciated the smooth boat rides on the river and loved the way we ended each and every day of the trip with ceremonial sundowners and a beautiful view of the sunset.
At each meal we would share stories with a congenial group of fellow travelers and the African staff. Thanks to everyone who made this a memorable trip!
— Review left June 4, 2024
This was a life changing experience. I really enjoyed being pampered from having our room and laundry clean to the over and beyond attitude of all staff members. The food was exceptional and cloth table clothes and napkins with low lighting for dinner set a soothing atmosphere after a long day in the bush, water or delta.
— Review left November 20, 2023
We returned from our trip five days ago....it is all that I can think about!! It was a trip of a lifetime!! Road Scholar, our group leader, Johann Roscher and support team took great care of us...once we landed in Johannesburg, all we had to do was "be there"...everything else was handled so nicely for us.
Our accommodations were nice and comfortable, food was good, but the itinerary was spectacular!!...This is a busy trip! We were going from before the sun was up until it was well down....we saw all of the Big Five and LOTS more. Our guides were knowledgeable, friendly and respectful of our safety.
I broke my ankle a few weeks before our trip, Road Scholar made sure that if there was anything that I needed on the trip, they took care of it... they booked a wheelchair and someone to push me for the longer walk at Victoria Falls and they paid for it. Lots of courtesies for our group who needed anything.
In the middle of the trip, we had a long day of leaving one country and entering the next...lots of travel, lines for immigration and the travel day for returning home was long... but it was worth it.
I HIGHLY recommend this itinerary at the time we went (10/28-11/9)...it was hot and dry, so the wildlife was easy to find at the watering holes.
— Review left November 14, 2023
An Amazing Experience!
— Review left October 16, 2023
This program is choreographed to perfection! Each day brought new, authentic, and meaningful experiences. The learning opportunities were endless. Mark, our program leader, was committed to providing excellent leadership as well as a warm and welcoming attitude. His expertise and eagerness to keep us informed were appreciated by everyone in the group. The African animals were dazzling and the cultural activities were outstanding. There are multiple border crossings in this program; I used 4 pages in my passport!
— Review left October 14, 2023
A wonderful experience. We have been waiting for three years (through the pandemic) for this program and we were not disappointed.
— Review left October 12, 2023
A fantastic adventure of a lifetime. On point all the way. Lisa our guide was very knowledgeable and gave us a true picture of life in Africa; not sugar-coated. Lions, Leopard, elephant, painted wolf, kudu, cape buffalo, sable antelope, ardwolf. We saw it all and more. Wildlife is never guaranteed to show up on cue, but we saw an amazing amount.
— Review left September 5, 2023
The program was more than I expected. The lodges we stayed at were wonderful, comfortable, and top notch. The wild life experience? The animals roam freely across the countryside, and into villages and towns. It shows a whole new way to live that we could learn from. It also gives new meaning to "be careful". The game drives were informative and yielded lions, giraffe, cape buffalo, leopard, sable, kudu, ardwolf, and painted wolf or dog and many other species. The trip of a lifetime for our 40th anniversary which RS helped us celebrate. Thank you RS!
— Review left August 26, 2023
A trip of a lifetime. Very well planned and executed trip.
Would definitely consider going back again.
— Review left July 4, 2023
This was a truly memorable trip of a lifetime. There were no blank spots - unless you wanted or needed a break. The planning and organization of the entire trip was well executed and it kept filling my hopes and expectations.
Well done and thank you for an incredibly experience.
— Review left July 1, 2023
This trip was all that it was made out to be. The mix of bush camps and the riverboat cruise was very well thought through. Mark Geraghty, our guide was exceptional. He is knowledgeable, and excellent communicator, and thoughtful. He managed to juggle very many pieces of the trip with aplomb. It did not hurt that we had an excellent group of people on this trip. I think it might be helpful to highlight (emphasize) that the bush camps can be very cold, early in the day, and at night. So warm clothing is a must. Overall, wonderful trip.
— Review left June 27, 2023
Trip of a lifetime! What a wonderful experience! 10/10 would recommend.
— Review left June 25, 2023
This was one of the best trips we have done! The group leader (Lisa) was the best we have had - totally available, filled with information, capable of resolving everything.
Africa is a once in a lifetime experience and this is the way to do it - scenery, history, animals!, wonderful friendly people!
— Review left May 28, 2023
This is a 5 star trip to Africa that focuses on animals, birds, natural beauty, and cultural visits in Zimbabwe, Namibia and Botswana. Accommodations, food and service were excellent at the land and water based camps, spending 2-3 nights in each. Our guide, Mark, was organized, very personable, and knowledgeable, and kept things smooth and enjoyable throughout. In the best tradition of Road Scholar we had brief lectures and Q/A about country histories, current government and conditions, animal behavior, environment etc. But it was the animals and birds that were the highlight. The presence of jeeps around these reserves was non-threatening to many of the animals and they would continue their eating, sleeping, playing and hunting while we observed and snapped pictures only a few feet away. I won't soon forget the elephant encounter reserve in Zimbabwe, the meadow where we found elephants, kudu, impala, and cape buffalo congregated at sundown, nor the wild dog chase with wildebeest protecting their young. Hopefully, these trips and the tourist dollars that they generate will encourage the governments of these countries to continue to preserve these beautiful creatures in their wild and beautiful habitats. Highly recommended!
— Review left January 25, 2020
WOW,this was an adventure of a lifetime. The amazing sight of the falls coupled with so many wild animals made every day an exciting and rewarding experience.
— Review left January 20, 2020