The Essence of Botswana and Zambia
10 Days - Daily
A land of staggering beauty, Botswana has developed a tradition of top-level safari tourism, offering some of the best wildlife safaris you will find. Natural parks and vast private game reserves make up 40% of a fenceless territory, enabling huge herds of game to roam freely in contrasting landscapes of magnificent extremes, from the Kalahari’s desert plains to the Okavango’s lush waterways… Combine this with the natural wonder of the Victoria Falls and with such a diversity of habitats and ecosystems there is a safari for every season.
from AUD $12320pp
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Itinerary Highlights:
- Experience the magnificent view of the Okavango Delta waterways from the air on your transfer to the camp
- Enjoy the variety of safari activities through game drives, mokoro rides and walking safaris
- Witness the great wildlife, including the big 5: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino
- Marvel at the majestic Victoria Falls
Itinerary in Brief:
- Day 1: Light Aircraft flight Maun to Linyati & helicopter flight to your camp
- Day 2-3: Okavango Delta, Linyati area
- Day 4: Helicopter flight from Linyati to your camp in Khwai
- Day 5-6: Okavango Delta, Khwai conservation area
- Day 7: Light Aircraft flight Linyati to Kasane & transfer to your camp in Livingstone
- Day 8 - 9: Livingstone
- Day 10: Depart
Tailor-made suggestions
- Add on some relaxing beach time with a side trip to the island paradise of Zanzibar which is home to some of the most idyllic, unspoiled beaches in the world: 6 day stay in Zanzibar and Stone Town
- Add a few nights in Cape Town Winelands if flying in/out of South Africa and enjoy the world class food and wine of this region: Cape Town Essentials
- Include this itinerary into a larger Southern Africa trip to visit Kruger National Park or the stunning Sabi Sand Nature Reserve
Flight Maun Airport to Linyanti
At the scheduled time today you will take the light aircraft charter flight from Maun Airport to your camp's local airstrip in Linyanti.
Please note: Your luggage is restricted to 20kg including hand luggage and any camera equipment. Only soft bags will be accepted - no hard suitcases or bags with wheels can be transported as they physically cannot fit the aircraft.
Helicopter Flight: Linyanti Airstrip to Linyanti Bush Camp
At the scheduled time today you will take an helicopter flight from Linyanti Airstrip to Linyanti Bush Camp.
Please note:
- Your luggage is restricted to 20kg including hand luggage and any camera equipment. Only soft bags will be accepted - no hard suitcases or bags with wheels can be transported as they physically cannot fit the aircraft.
- Guests are provided with headsets and pilot commentary of the area throughout the flight.
- Helicopter types used are Robinson & Bell models.
4 Day Linyanti Bush Camp
Linyanti Bush Camp is situated on the banks of Linyanti Marsh in a private reserve which borders the western boundary of Chobe in the Chobe Enclave. The marshes are the only water source for miles around and attract water-adapted and desert-adapted wildlife, plus large numbers of birds. The camp is perfect for those who seek a personalized experience in a private concession away from the main tourist’s routes. Activities from the camp consist of game drives, walking, night drives, mokoro safaris, boating and fishing as well as seasonal helicopter tours. Water activities are available only when water levels permit. Linyanti is best known for its large populations of Elephant and buffalo that congregate in vast numbers especially during the dry season. Other wildlife encounters include Lion, sable, roan, leopard, wild dog, the rare and elusive sitatunga antelope, red lechwe, hippo and crocodile, as well as other species of plains game. The area also offers spectacular birding all year round. The area's relative remoteness makes it a favoured wild safari destination and one of the best sought after areas in Northern Botswana.
Linyanti Bush Camp Arrival
On arrival into the local airstrip you will be met by a camp guide and transferred to Linyanti Bush Camp to get settled into your room. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to head out on an afternoon game viewing activity before returning to the camp for a delicious dinner.
Dinner included.
Linyanti Bush Camp Activities
Enjoy two full days on safari in the exclusive Linyanti Wildlife Reserve.
DAY & NIGHT GAME DRIVES
Lead by one of our experienced guides, you’ll see magnificent wildlife indigenous to the area in open 4x4 vehicles. Your guide will show you the hidden spots best for game viewing and give you an insider’s knowledge. With years of experience our African Bush Camps guides are known for being some of the best in the business. Due to its location in a private concession, game drives can go offroad to allow vehicles to be positioned closer to special predator sighting which enhances the photographic and game viewing experience. Our private concession also allows for game drives after the sun has set. Experience the bush when elusive nocturnal wildlife awakens to hunt, forage and explore the lands under the cover of darkness.
WALKING SAFARIS
Awaken your senses and discover all that the bush has to offer on a walking safari. Accompanied by one of our experienced walking guides, explore the wild for one to two hours. For a full day walking safari, a private walking guide will need to be pre-booked with us. Since your safety is our first priority, walking safaris are usually conducted when the bush is not too thick.
MOKORO RIDES
Traditionally, the mokoro was the only form of transport through the waterways. Sail through the rivers and tributaries with our river guides in a dugout canoe made from fibreglass (in an effort to conserve trees). Savour those moments of peace, and encounter an incredible variety of wildlife along the way. Mokoro safaris are available when water levels permit.
BIRDWATCHING
Linyanti boasts some of Botswana’s best birding all year round. Delight in spotting the Arnot’s chat, the Goliath heron or the majestic Long-crested eagle. Or simply sit back and enjoy their beautiful songs.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Linyanti Bush Camp Departure
Depending on your departure time, you may have the opportunity to head out on one final morning game viewing activity before breakfast at the camp and a transfer back to the local airstrip.
Breakfast included.
Helicopter Flight: Linyanti to Khwai Leadwood Camp
At the scheduled time today you will take an helicopter flight from Linyanti to Khwai Leadwood Camp.
Please note:
- Your luggage is restricted to 20kg including hand luggage and any camera equipment. Only soft bags will be accepted - no hard suitcases or bags with wheels can be transported as they physically cannot fit the aircraft.
- Guests are provided with headsets and pilot commentary of the area throughout the flight.
- Helicopter types used are Robinson & Bell models.
Khwai Leadwood Camp
Set within the Okavango Delta’s community-run Khwai Concession, this beautiful camp is tucked under the trees on the edge of the Khwai River. This river is all that separates the iconic Moremi Game Reserve and the concession, with hippos, elephants and even lions crossing over from time to time. Watching these animals manoeuvre through the water is an exceptional experience for even the most travelled safari veterans.
The elegantly designed camp hosts six standard tents and one family unit, keeping in line with the intimate and exclusive wilderness experience. The new camp effortlessly bridges the gap between luxury accommodation and feeling like you’re in the great African outdoors. Woven baskets and beaded décor, along with modern elements, create an authentic contemporary African style.
Khwai’s biggest drawcard is undoubtedly the plentiful and extraordinary wildlife - you’ll never be bored here! Adventure and relaxation are on offer as guests live out their ultimate safari experience - from setting off on a morning walking safari to enjoying a gin and tonic overlooking the Khwai River.
Khwai Leadwood Arrival Day
Upon arrival at the airstrip of your lodge you will be greeted by the friendly staff who transfer you to your lodge and then will assist you with checking in and showing you to your room. Get settled in and depending on your arrival time today, you may have the opportunity to head out on an afternoon game activity (game drive, walking safari or mokoro safari).
The Khwai River can be viewed as the North Gate of the Moremi Game Reserve, and has recently earned a strong reputation as being one of the best game areas in Botswana, offering spectacular wildlife viewing and photographic opportunities. Surrounding the Khwai River, wildlife and birdlife are in abundance, making it a great Botswana Safari destination to visit. This area plays host to a wide variety of animals which include: elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, serval, cheetah and the wild dog.
Dinner included.
Khwai Leadwood Activitives
Today you will have your choice of activities to experience this region which can be described as a combination of pretty lagoons and winding channels of papyrus, which is scenically beautiful and naturally peaceful.
The camp offers visitors several unique ways to experience Africa. Besides the day-time drives which can feature Africa’s big attractions – lion, cheetah, leopard, wild dog, elephant, buffalo, hippo and giraffe – guests at Khwai Leadwood are able to explore nature after sunset with a night drive. This activity, along with the guided walking safaris, is not usually permitted in the National Parks or Game Reserves, and allows guests to get an up close and personal experience with some of Africa’s nocturnal and / or more elusive animals. The camp also provides the opportunity to explore the great stands of leadwood and mopane woodlands as well as open grasslands and banks of the Khwai River on foot.
Another offered activity is mokoro rides (water levels permitting). Traditionally, the mokoro was the only form of transport in the Okavango Delta. Sail through the rivers and tributaries in a dugout canoe made from fibreglass, savouring those moments of peace, and encounter an incredible variety of wildlife along the way.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Khwai Leadwood Departure Day
Today you will enjoy a morning activity and breakfast before departing your lodge. You will be transferred to the airstrip where you will meet your departing flight.
Breakfast included.
Light aircraft transfer from Khwai to Kasane Airport
At the scheduled time today you will take the light aircraft flight from the Khwai airstrip in the Okavango Delta to Kasane Airport.
Please note: Your luggage is restricted to 20kg including hand luggage and any camera equipment. Only soft bags will be accepted - no hard suitcases or bags with wheels can be transported as they physically cannot fit the aircraft. As a guideline, standard checked luggage should have the three dimensions of 11.8 inches (30cm) wide, by 27.5 inches (70cm) long and 13.8 inches (35cm) high.
Kasane Airport to Livingstone
Upon arrival into Kasane Airport you will be met and transferred through the Zambia border and on to your hotel in Livingstone.
4 Day Thorntree River Lodge
Thorntree River Lodge is situated along the picturesque banks of Zambia’s Zambezi River, nestled within Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park. The lodge offers a serene base from which to enjoy a number of safari activities. Embark on game drives, river cruises, cultural visits, fishing expeditions, canoeing trips, and rhino tracking walks. Enjoy private excursions to both the Zambian and the Zimbabwean side of Victoria Falls. For those eager to explore from above, opt for a helicopter ride over the Falls; it’s guaranteed to take your breath away.
Your stay includes: all meals, premium drinks, 2 scheduled lodge activities daily, return transfers from Livingstone Airport, park fees & laundry.
Arrival Day
Arrive to Thorntree River Lodge and get settled into your room. Depending on your arrival time, you might have the opportunity to join in a shared activity offered at the lodge before returning for a delicious dinner.
Dinner included.
Lodge Activities
Enjoy two full days exploring the Zambezi River and Victoria Falls area. Lodge activities include:
Visit to Victoria Falls: The legendary Victoria Falls, Mosi-Oa-Tunya or otherwise known as the Smoke that Thunders. Enjoy the splendour and magnitude of one of the Natural Wonders of the World. After the rains, experience Victoria Falls in all her glory and when the Falls are dry, marvel at the rock formation.
Canoeing: Accompanied by your River guide, enjoy a canoe safari. Take a relaxed paddle through the water and experience elephants trekking through from one side to the other and a new vantage point.
Sunset river cruise: Encapsulating the essence of Africa, a cruise down Zambia’s glorious Zambezi River at sunset offers wonderful African wildlife sightings in an incredibly romantic setting. We have our own boats, for maximum flexibility and freedom to take in the breathtaking sunsets from the river.
Cultural Village Visit: The African Bush Camps Foundation works with the local communities with the goal of community upliftment through tourism by creating long-lasting positive impact. In Livingstone, we have partnered with the Maunga Community and together have identified two focus areas; building a much needed clinic building and providing scholarships to children who are in need and show potential in the classroom. Spend half a day visiting this community during your stay at Thorntree River Lodge and see the impact of the Foundations work.
Fishing: Spend the day cruising the water and taking in the gorgeous views. Try your hand at fishing for tiger, bream (tilapia) or vundu to be caught and then released.
Visit to Livingstone Museum: The excellent Livingstone Museum is divided into five sections covering archaeology, history, ethnography, natural history and art, and is highlighted by Tonga ritual artefacts, a life-sized model African village, a collection of David Livingstone memorabilia and historic maps dating back to 1690.
Rhino Experience in Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park: Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is home to the extremely rare and endangered white rhino who are under 24-hour protection by the rangers. You’ll get the unique opportunity to see these incredible animals up close on a short walking safari.
Game Drives: Lead by one of our experienced guides, you’ll see magnificent wildlife indigenous to the area. Your guide will show you the hidden spots best for game viewing and give you an insider’s knowledge. With years of experience our African Bush Camps guides are known for being some of the best in the business.
Birding: Thorntree River Lodge on the Zambezi River is home to a wide array of exotic birds, such as Gannets, Spotted thick-knee and Verreaux’s eagle-owl. Pick up the binoculars, or simply sit back and enjoy their beautiful songs.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Departure Day
Following breakfast, you will check out of your room and bid farewell to the lodge as you are transferred back to Livingstone Airport for your onward arrangements.
Breakfast included.
Transfer to Livingstone Airport
At the appropriate time today you will be met at your hotel by our representative who will transfer you to Livingstone Airport for your onward flight.
Daily
Season | Type | From | Special Offer |
---|---|---|---|
01 Nov 2024 - 30 Nov 2024 | AUD $16100pp | ||
The Essence of Botswana and Zambia | AUD $16100pp | Contact us | |
01 Dec 2024 - 20 Dec 2024 | AUD $12438pp | ||
The Essence of Botswana and Zambia | AUD $12438pp | Contact us | |
06 Jan 2025 - 31 Mar 2025 | AUD $12320pp | ||
The Essence of Botswana and Zambia | AUD $12320pp | Contact us | |
01 Apr 2025 - 31 May 2025 | AUD $16207pp | ||
The Essence of Botswana and Zambia | AUD $16207pp | Contact us | |
01 Jun 2025 - 31 Oct 2025 | AUD $22262pp | ||
The Essence of Botswana and Zambia | AUD $22262pp | Contact us | |
01 Nov 2025 - 30 Nov 2025 | AUD $16207pp | ||
The Essence of Botswana and Zambia | AUD $16207pp | Contact us | |
01 Dec 2025 - 20 Dec 2025 | AUD $12320pp | ||
The Essence of Botswana and Zambia | AUD $12320pp | Contact us |
- Displayed prices are not valid during festive season block out dates.
- Please note: Park fees are quoted based on current rates and are subject to change at any time. If the local Wildlife Authority decides to increase their park fees after you have booked a safari trip, Eclipse Travel will need to add a supplement to your booking to cover the additional cost.
- The prices on our website will give you a very good estimate of the cost of this itinerary, however there might be a small variation in price due to the fluctuating costs of the internal flights and potential overlap between the rate seasons. To get an exact quote, please speak to one of our consultants who will provide you with a detailed itinerary and quote based on your specific travel dates.
The Essence of Botswana and Zambia
Linyanti, Botswana - Linyanti Bush Camp
Khwai, Botswana - Khwai Leadwood Camp
Livingstone, Zambia - Thorntree River Lodge
Whats included?
- Accommodation
- All inter-camp transfers (Starting in Maun and ending in Livingstone):
- Light Aircraft flight from Maun to Linyanti Airstrip
- Helicopter transfer from Linyanti Airstrip to Linyanti Bush Camp
- Helicopter transfer from Linyanti to Khwai
- Light Aircraft flight from Khwai Airstrip to Kasane Airport
- Road transfer from Kasane Airport to Thorntree River Lodge
- Road transfer from Thorntree River Lodge to Livingstone Airport
- All meals
- Tea, coffee, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages, except premium imported spirits and champagne
- Laundry
- Activities:
- Linyanti Bush Camp & Khwai Leadwood:
- Morning, afternoon & night game drives, walking safaris, mokoro (subject to water levels)
- 20 minute scenic helicopter flight at Linyanti between April and November. 1 flight per stay, additional 30-minute scenic helicopter flights available at approx. USD345-370 per person, minimum 2 people per flight. Scenic flight in Khwai is only included for 2024.
- Thorntree River Lodge:
- Sunrise & sunset boat cruises
- Visit to the Zambian side of the Falls (visit to the Zimbabwean side of the Falls in low water season excluding visa fees)
- Canoeing safari
- Rhino walk, game drives in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, catch & release fishing (not available in December due to breeding season)
- Gym and Spa (additional costs apply for spa treatments)
- Linyanti Bush Camp & Khwai Leadwood:
What’s not included?
- Visa Fees
- International / Regional Flights into Maun and out of Livingstone
- Travel Insurance
- Items of a personal nature
- Staff Gratuities
Notes
- Displayed prices are not valid during festive season block out dates.
- Please note: Park fees are quoted based on current rates and are subject to change at any time. If the local Wildlife Authority decides to increase their park fees after you have booked a safari trip, Eclipse Travel will need to add a supplement to your booking to cover the additional cost.
- The prices on our website will give you a very good estimate of the cost of this itinerary, however there might be a small variation in price due to the fluctuating costs of the internal flights and potential overlap between the rate seasons. To get an exact quote, please speak to one of our consultants who will provide you with a detailed itinerary and quote based on your specific travel dates.