Botswana Mobile Safari, the Victoria Falls and Luxurious Mozambique

What a combination in this itinerary! In my opinion, a mobile safari is the best way to truly experience the African bush and its wildlife, and this one visits three of the prime areas of Botswana, which is arguably the greatest country for safari enthusiasts.

But not only that – after a week under canvas you will be transferred across the border into Zimbabwe for a couple of nights in wonderful Victoria Falls. You must of course visit the Falls themselves, but there is so much more to do – high tea or a G&T at the legendary Victoria Falls Hotel or craft beer at the River Brewing Company. Take a trip to the elephant sanctuary to see the work being done to help these gentle giants and take a sunset cruise on the Zambezi. Or – if high adrenaline is your thing – you can bungee off the bridge, take a gorge swing or raft the white-water rapids. A helicopter ride is recommended to really appreciate the size of the Falls and there are many other activities available – but nobody will judge you for taking it easy.

After a one-night stay at a Johannesburg airport hotel (necessary due to flight timings) you leave the next day for a week of utter relaxation at one of the premier resorts in Mozambique – asDunas Lodge. Kick off your shoes, feel the sand between your toes and lounge in the warm sun – or try your hand at fishing, watersports or diving – the choice is yours.

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Day 1

Welcome to Africa! After your international flight and the far shorter connection up to Maun in Botswana, you will be met at the airport by our representative who will drive you to your hotel for the night, where you can get your energy back and catch up on your sleep before the safari adventure begins early the next day.

Take it easy by the pool, enjoying the views of the river and enjoy a hearty meal in the hotel restaurant.

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Day 2 – 7

Your guide will meet you at 07h30 at a pre-arranged meeting point in Maun. From Maun you will drive through to Moremi/Khwai, one of the best wilderness areas of Botswana which covers swamp and dry areas.

The next two days will be spent searching for the wide variety of wildlife and birds that this area is renowned for while absorbing the sounds and beauty of this region. Game drives in the early morning as the sun rises and in the late afternoon as the sun sets will be the norm.

Camping will be in private designated campsites with ensuite bush ablutions on every tent. As well as game drives to explore the region surrounding the Khwai river (North-east Moremi/Khwai Concession), a mokoro excursion will take you along a tributary of the Khwai River to view game from another perspective and to experience this tranquil mode of transport.

Chobe National Park, with its diverse and striking landscapes, will be your next destination. As you continue your search for wildlife, you will traverse the drier region of Savuti where bull elephants dot the plains. Savuti is very well known for its predators such as lion, leopard, cheetah and even African wild dog. The Savuti Channel has started flowing again after being dry for the last 30 years.

The arrival of water is changing the landscape as well as accommodating different species which historically have not been able to survive in the rather arid plains of Savuti. This exciting event has allowed large breeding herds of elephant as well as buffalo to visit the area. Camping will be in private designated campsites with ensuite bush ablutions on every tent. Enjoy game drives exploring Southern Chobe National Park (Savute/ZweiZwei).

You will then head northwards to the Chobe River where your game drives will meander along the banks of the river, followed by the call of the majestic African Fish Eagle. The Chobe River Floodplain is an amazing game viewing area where water attracts large herds of buffalo, elephant, zebra and other herbivors.

Due to the proliferation of prey, predators are likely to be close at hand. Sunsets in this region as always spectacular and allow amazing photographic opportunities.

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Day 8 – 9

All good things must come to an end, but more good things await!

The safari part of your trip ends at midday in Kasane after a cruise on the Chobe River. This experience allows you to get a closer look at the aquatic animals and birds not easily approached on safari. Lunch will be available at your own cost once back in Kasane.

Your transfer to Victoria Falls will depart around 1215 and it’s time to leave Botswana and cross the border into Zimbabwe! It’s not far from the border post to the town of Victoria Falls, and your driver will take you to the stunning new Pioneer’s Lodge where you will be pampered for two nights.

There are so many activities on offer in Victoria Falls that it makes sense to plan and book in advance. One such activity that is is a helicopter flight over the Falls themselves. It’s not cheap but it’s worth every penny. It’s an early morning adventure so you’ll have plenty of time left to take a guided tour of the Falls, explore the Bridge (crossing underneath if you don’t mind heights!)

And if adrenaline is your thing, how about trying out the zipline across the river, a gorge swing or a bungee jump?

There’s white-water rafting and a bunch of other crazy fun to be had, or you can take it easy on a sunset cruise.

The Boma restaurant experience is touristy but fun – a dance and music show with a huge buffet including local delicacies. How about trying mopane worm?

 

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Day 10

Your time in Victoria Falls whizzed by and it’s time to depart Zimbabwe for a stopover in South Africa.

Due to flight times, you need one night at the airport before flying to Mozambique the following day. I’ve kept it easy by booking a hotel right at Johannesburg Airport. You can relax here or take a taxi into town if you like. I love Johannesburg and it deserves several days, but you could go for dinner in one of the many excellent restaurants if you so desire.

Or you could just relax by the hotel pool and have a room service dinner – the choice is yours and nobody’s judging!

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Day 11 – 16

Another day, another country!

After breakfast, head over the road to the airport and check in for your Airlink flight to Vilanculous, Mozambique. It’s beach time!

Upon arrival you’ll be met by a driver from asDunas who will transport you to another piece of paradise.

The perfect place to unwind after the excitement of safari life and the Victoria Falls, asDunas is a wonderful property in a wonderful location. In the south of Mozambique, in front of Bazaruto Archipelago’s fabulous scenery and only 20 minutes north of Vilanculos town, this small boutique lodge will give you a unique opportunity to discover and experience uncontaminated Mozambican landscapes.

An all-inclusive concept for your total peace of mind, asDunas Lodge is a perfect getaway for couples, honeymooners, families, groups of friends and single travelers.

asDunas Lodge offers just eight suites, all equipped with private pool, for up to 16 people, as a guarantee of maximum exclusivity, privacy and care of its guests, focusing on their wellbeing of body and mind.

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Day 17

The day has sadly arrived – time to return home. Still, you have some amazing stories to tell and I’m sure you’ll already be dreaming about returning to Africa before the plane lands at your final destination!

After saying goodbye, you will be taken to the airport for the flight back to Johannesburg, and your return journey that night back home.

Africa will be waiting for you to come back!