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.

Enroll with Confidence

We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. Learn more

Protecting the Environment

We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Learn more

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
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.

What You'll Learn

  • 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
Profile Image
Johann Roscher
Johann Röscher was born in South Africa and grew up on State Forestry stations along the coastal belt of the Cape Province. He joined the military and studied at the North West University, earning a bachelor’s degree in political science. After traveling through the Middle East and Eastern Europe, he returned to South Africa to work as a socio-political researcher. Disillusioned with city life, Johann decided to change careers and lead safaris. He’s been taking groups on safaris in Kalahari and Okavango Delta for 17 years, and he’s never been more content with his choice to move to that beautiful and remote region.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Johann Roscher
Johann Roscher View biography
Johann Röscher was born in South Africa and grew up on State Forestry stations along the coastal belt of the Cape Province. He joined the military and studied at the North West University, earning a bachelor’s degree in political science. After traveling through the Middle East and Eastern Europe, he returned to South Africa to work as a socio-political researcher. Disillusioned with city life, Johann decided to change careers and lead safaris. He’s been taking groups on safaris in Kalahari and Okavango Delta for 17 years, and he’s never been more content with his choice to move to that beautiful and remote region.
Profile Image of Sam Mushandu
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!)
Profile Image of Honest Siyawareva
Honest Siyawareva View biography
Growing up, Honest Siyawareva spent much of his life in close proximity to nature, thanks to his family’s passion. Fulfilling his family legacy — his father and uncle were both professional nature leaders — in 2014, Honest qualified as a professional nature leader in Zimbabwe, the only person to pass the extremely onerous examinations that year. Working for Wilderness Safaris in Zimbabwe, he has split his time between camps in Hwange National Park and Mana Pools National Park.
Profile Image of Onx Manga
Onx Manga View biography
Onx Manga was born in Maun, Botswana, the jumping off point for most safari destinations, and was drawn to the safari industry from an early age. He worked at Khwai River Lodge in Moremi Game Reserve and then became assistant camp manager at Savute Elephant Camp in Chobe National Park. He later worked at Disney World’s Animal Kingdom Lodge before returning to Botswana and the bush. Onx is a brilliant combination of real-life experience and studied learning. He is dedicated to nature and its conservation.
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.





Recommended For You

loading spinner