Victoria Falls to Cape Town - Camping
Experience Overview
Victoria Falls to Cape Town is one the world’s great journeys. Starting from the mighty waterfall on the Zimbabwe-Zambia border, this trip travels through wildlife-rich game parks in Namibia and Botswana, spectacular desert landscape in Namibia and finally to Cape Town, the most cosmopolitan city in South Africa. This is an adventure through the heart of the most dramatic scenery in southern Africa, with rich culture, diverse wildlife and the opportunity to take part in numerous activities along the way.
Profile
— Accommodation: 5 Classic nights (lodges and guesthouses), 14 Simple nights (participatory camping) — Camping and lodge departures available — Travel in a purpose-built overland truck — Some long drives on rough roads and early starts
At a Glance
— Accommodation: 5 Classic nights (lodges and guesthouses), 14 Simple nights (participatory camping) — Camping and lodge departures available — Travel in a purpose-built overland truck — Some long drives on rough roads and early starts
Trip For You
This trip is graded Activity Level 2 (Easy & Moderate). For more information on our trip gradings please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
We run both camping and lodge/hotel departures for this trip, both following a similar itinerary.
All the camping departures involve participatory camping. This means you are expected to help put up and take down your tent and camping gear and carry your own bags to/from the bus. The rest of the camping chores, however, such as cooking and cleaning, are done by the crew.
We camp everywhere, except Swakopmund and Cape Town, in well-equipped campsites. While camping in Africa is one of the best ways to experience this amazing continent, some people may find camping almost every night for three weeks quite tiring, especially considering the long distances covered on this trip.
Transport for all departures is in a specially modified safari vehicle. All vehicles carry a reference library, fridge and/or icebox. Around 80 percent of Namibian roads are good gravel roads. However, the road conditions are completely dependent on how they are being maintained at the time and conditions can be poor on occasion. This can have an impact on journey times and comfort. Distances are long on some days, as this trip covers 3,100mi (5,000km), but take in an amazing variety of landscapes and wildlife. Game drives are completed in the vehicle we use throughout the tour (with the exception of optional game drives). Drive times stated are approximations and vary with road conditions and the number of stops.
Where we travel in South Africa is safe and the risk of crime is generally low. However, there are important steps that can be taken to minimise the risk of theft and these include leaving valuables in your hotel safe, at home, or concealed in the vehicle when not needed. Do not carry more cash than you need, as cards are widely accepted in South Africa. If using an ATM, do not do this alone and be mindful of your surroundings. It is not advisable to walk around after dark, particularly in Cape Town where you can easily and inexpensively take an Uber or ask your hotel to arrange a taxi.
There are a number of walks on this itinerary but most are short and on relatively easy terrain. The most challenging is the two hour walk to the White Lady rock paintings as the conditions can be hot and there are some boulders to navigate.
Legal note: All group members joining this tour are asked to sign an indemnity form at the start of the trip. This is a requirement of the South African Tourism Service Association, of which our local supplier is a member. As a client of Exodus Travels Ltd, your rights under the Package Travel Regulations (1992) are unaffected, and Exodus remains liable for the actions of our sub-contractors.
Group Description
The trip is guided by a tour leader and driver.
Eating Drinking
All breakfasts, seven lunches and 12 dinners are included.
We suggest you allow about US$250 for meals not included in the itinerary. Camp meals should be wholesome and plentiful, but do not expect cordon bleu cooking. However, the general standard of food is good and vegetarians are well catered for. Please notify us of specific dietary requirements.
The water provided on this trip is safe and clean drinking water, normally from boreholes. If you would rather have bottled water then this will be at your expense, though we would encourage you to make use of the safe drinking water provided as this helps diminish plastic consumption.
Transportation
The vehicle normally used for this trip, including for the safaris in Etosha, is a specially modified safari truck. Seating is forward facing and the windows are large and easy to open. People are expected to move around to permit everyone a chance to have a window seat. There is plenty of legroom and packing space. All vehicles carry a reference library and icebox. The roads are generally excellent in South Africa with little traffic. Even the dirt roads are usually smooth and well maintained. Some of the areas we visit in Namibia are very remote and the roads are not always well maintained so it can be bumpy at times. There are four or five long driving days, but the scenery is breath-taking so this should not prove too much of a hardship. It can get cold on the truck in winter, so a warm, windproof jacket is recommended, though it is generally hot in summer.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: Shearwater Explorers Village, Adam Stander Dr, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Phone: +263 13 47362
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. There will be a welcome briefing in the evening, but if you miss it the leader will update you separately
Airport: Victoria Falls Airport (VFA)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately 25 minutes’ drive from the airport. Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.
If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Flights via Johannesburg
If you are travelling on flights via Johannesburg, please note you need to collect your baggage in Johannesburg, even if your bag has been checked all the way through to Victoria Falls (and even if you are told you do not need to pick it up). After collecting the bag, you are required to clear customs, and you should then drop it off at the bag drop for the onward flight.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to Cape Town Airport (CPT) for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
Weather Information
June, July and August, while clear and warm during the day, can be cold and even drop to below freezing at night. Between September and May, it is considerably warmer with the time between October and March being the hottest, getting up to the high 30Cs (around 100F) and sometimes above. However, it is always a dry heat and the temperature does drop at night. The wet season is between November and February, but this is not a bad time to go, as it generally does not rain for very long.
Spending Money
Allow the equivalent of US$10‐US$15 per day for drinks, souvenirs and incidentals.
Many optional activities are available, and a few of these are listed below. Please note, some of these activities involve an element of risk.
Optional excursions (prices are approximate and subject to change)
There are several optional activities along the way, such as ocean fishing, white-water rafting, boat rides and scenic flights but there’s plenty to occupy you if you don’t participate. These activities can be paid in local currency or card in South Africa and Namibia, and in local currency, US dollars or card in Botswana and card or US dollars in Zimbabwe.
Namibia
— Deadvlei: 200 Namibian dollars (US$10) — Flight over Sossusvlei: 5,780-15,000 Namibian dollars (US$310-US$805) depending on numbers — Ocean fishing: 2,000 Namibian dollars (US$110) — Township tour: 550 Namibian dollars (US$30) — Etosha late afternoon game drive: 650 Namibian dollars (US$35)
Victoria Falls (US dollars, rates are approximate)
— White-water rafting: US$132 — Sunset cruise: US$65 — Victoria Falls entry on Zimbabwean side: US$50
Please note that the Table Mountain cable car closes during winter for its annual maintenance. We advise checking their website for exact dates. The cable car at Table Mountain is approximately US$25. You can also pre‐purchase cable car tickets online – they are valid for seven days from the chosen date.: https://www.tablemountain.net/
Tipping
Our local staff are paid well and fairly for their work, but we would still recommend for your leader and driver approximately US$5 per person per day.
Tipping is expected but not compulsory in all sub-Saharan countries visited on this trip. In most restaurants, an average of tipping 10 percent is common and service staff as well as local guides rely on tipping as part of their wages, but be sure to check. This tip is voluntary and can be declined if service was unsatisfactory.
Highlights
— Visit Cape Town, the most exciting city in Africa — Discover the mountainous dunes of Sossusvlei — See the fantastic wildlife of Etosha National Park — Visit the Okavango Panhandle and Chobe National Park — Marvel at the mighty Victoria Falls
Trip Details
Product Code: 4301
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: n summer.
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Exodus Travel
Supplier Code: AZVRA
Starts: Victoria Falls, Botswana
Finishes: Victoria Falls, Botswana
Duration: 20 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Unknown
Includes
— All breakfasts, seven lunches, 12 dinners — All accommodation (see below) — All transport and listed activities — Tour leader throughoutAccommodation
Camps, hotel and guesthousesWe spend 15 nights camping, two nights in a hotel and two nights in a guesthouse. We stay in Classic-standard hotels/guesthouses in Cape Town and Swakopmund. Because accommodation is very oversubscribed, we cannot always guarantee a particular lodge or hotel, but in Cape Town we stay within walking distance of restaurants and it’ll be easy to catch a taxi to the V&A Waterfront (please note, the group might be accommodated in different but similar properties in Cape Town). We camp in two-person tents throughout the rest of the trip. Camping is undeniably the best way to experience Africa and fixed campsites in South Africa and Namibia are particularly well cared for: clean, tidy and with facilities of a reasonable standard. Some of these campsites have swimming pools. It is possible that up to two nights are spent wild camping. All the camping departures involve participatory camping. This means you are expected to help put up and take down your tent and camping gear and carry your own bags to/from the bus. The rest of the camping chores, however, such as cooking and cleaning, are done by the crew. All communal camping gear is provided, including spacious igloo tents, thick foam mattresses, and folding stools. You need to take your own sleeping bag. Wifi is available about half the time but is not always reliable. Single supplement available. Due to the limited amount of accommodation within Etosha National Park, it may be necessary to sleep outside the park on some or all of the nights we are there. This does not impact the number of game drives we have within the park.
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $4,655 ($233 /day)
Itinerary
The adventure begins at Victoria Falls. Today is all about settling into the trip. We have a welcome briefing this evening, our first chance to meet as a group and to ask the leader any questions you have. Accommodation: Shearwater Explorers Village campsite (or similar)
We have a free day with a choice of several optional activities, including scenic flights, white-water rafting and game-viewing among others. Victoria Falls is a small town on the Zimbabwean side of the glorious Victoria Falls, which you can visit (entrance own expense US$50). Accommodation: Shearwater Explorers Village campsite (or similar)
We have a little free time in the campsite, leaving at around 11am for our transfer to Kasane in Botswana, home to huge numbers of elephants and hippos. There’s an optional game drive in Chobe National Park in the afternoon. Drive time: 95mi (150km), one to two hours, plus border crossing of one to two hours Accommodation: Thebe River Camp Site (or similar)
We have an early morning game drive in the national park and an afternoon boat ride on the Chobe River, where it is possible to view huge herds of elephants coming to drink plus many other animals. Accommodation: Thebe River Camp Site (or similar)
We drive through Chobe National Park as we make our way to Namibia and then through the Caprivi Strip to our camp by the Okavango River – the main watercourse supplying the Okavango Delta. Drive time: 250mi (400km), five to six hours, plus one-hour border crossing Accommodation: Ngepi Camp (or similar)
We take a mokoro (traditional dugout canoe) ride from our camp on the Okavango River. Please note, the river may be flooded in March/April and we may have to substitute our mokoros for a boat ride. The birdlife is prolific and, at certain times of the year, so is the game. Gliding through the waterways by mokoro is the ideal way to absorb the sheer tranquillity of the place. We also have the option of a village tour to meet the local community. Accommodation: Ngepi Camp (or similar)
We have a long drive from the Okavango River to Etosha National Park, a huge area of mixed forest and grassland centred around a large saltpan. Etosha is home to a great variety and number of animals, which are easy to find as they congregate at different times around the waterholes. There are waterholes next to the excellent campsites and it is not uncommon for us to spend all night watching a gala performance of animals: wildebeest, zebras, impalas, springboks, kudu, elephants, giraffes, lions and even rhinos are all common sights here. With a little patience, you are rewarded by one of the greatest game spectacles in southern Africa. Etosha is also a good place for birds, with plenty of waterbirds on the lakes, weaverbirds and hornbills in the trees. Drive time: 400mi (650km), eight hours Accommodation: Etosha NWR Campsite (or similar)
This morning we leave Etosha and head towards Brandberg, the highest mountain in Namibia. We enjoy a walk through Valley 45 for approximately two hours to the White Lady rock painting which, along with several other small paintings and engravings, are thought to have been left by indigenous San people at least 2,000 years ago. Drive time: 250mi (400km), five to six hours Accommodation: Brandberg White Lady Lodge (or similar)
We drive towards the Skeleton Coast and the Germanic town of Swakopmund, where we stay overnight. Drive time: 155mi (250km), four hours Accommodation: Dunedin Star Guest House (or similar)
Swakopmund is the adventure sports capital of Namibia, and we have a full day here to enjoy the optional adventure activities available; go on a dolphin cruise or township tour or take a flight over the desert! Alternatively, explore the German-style town and visit some of the excellent cake shops. Accommodation: Dunedin Star Guest House (or similar)
Drive via Walvis Bay to Sesriem, through the Namib Desert. This area is home to some of the driest and oldest deserts on earth and some of the finest desert scenery in Africa with towering, jagged rock formations and incredible lunar landscapes. Drive time: 185mi (300km), 4hr 30min Accommodation: Sesriem Camp Site (or similar)
We have a full day to enjoy the Sossusvlei dunes and Sesriem Canyon. We wake early to watch the morning light over the dunes and then climb one of the highest dunes in the world. If you’d rather watch from below, you can enjoy seeing the changing colours on the towering dunes as the sun rises. If we’re lucky, we may see gemsbok, ostriches or even black‐backed jackals among the dunes, an irresistibly photogenic scene! In the afternoon, we visit Sesriem Canyon. Accommodation: Sesriem Camp Site (or similar)
We leave early this morning to drive to the Fish River Canyon, the second largest canyon on earth. We arrive in the afternoon and set up camp, before transferring to the rim of the canyon for sunset views. Drive time: 310mi (500km), 8hr 30min to 9hr Accommodation: Hobas Camp (or similar)
We leave the canyon in the morning and get to Orange River for lunch. This afternoon, we should be able to have a canoe trip on the river. Drive time: 110mi (180km), 2hr 30min to 3hr Accommodation: Felix Unite Camp Site (or similar)
In the morning, we leave Namibia and cross into South Africa. We head to our final stop before Cape Town as we travel to the fertile Olifants River Valley, giving us a glimpse into the agricultural lifestyle of the Western Cape. We may also have the opportunity for an optional wine-tasting experience. Drive time: About seven hours, plus one-hour border crossing Accommodation: Highlanders Camp Site
We spend the morning relaxing at Olifants River Valley. In the afternoon, we travel through farmlands of citrus, maize, cattle and sheep before arriving at our destination, Cape Town. Drive time: 185mi (300km), 4hr 30min to 5hr 30min Accommodation: City Lodge Hotel Victoria & Alfred Waterfront (or similar)
Activities available in Cape Town on days 19 and 20 are interchangeable depending on the weather, as we time the optional excursion up Table Mountain for a clear day. Table Mountain is often the first image that springs to mind whenever one thinks of Cape Town. We visit the mountain by cable car (optional) for views across the city. There is also time to drive via the spectacular Chapmans Peak to Houtbay, visit Cape Point and see the resident penguin colony at Boulders Beach. Accommodation: City Lodge Hotel Victoria & Alfred Waterfront (or similar)
It's our final day of the trip and time to begin our return journeys home. If you have free time before your flight, there are optional activities available, including a trip to see Table Mountain. If you’d prefer to extend your time in Cape Town, speak to your sales representative about booking additional nights.
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Tour Operator
Exodus Travel
It’s all about adventure That is what Exodus was founded upon 50 years ago, and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on. At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved. This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday. Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments. See our history page for more details about how we began and how we have grown over the past 50 years. Never travelled with Exodus before? Visit our New to Exodus page for some useful, first-timer information.
In Business Since 1974
Reviews
ANGELA HORTON - Traveled, April 2024
Amazing 3 week camping trip. We had a wonderful adventure visiting four countries in Africa with our excellent guides Petrus and Ende. They worked tirelessly to ensure we were safe, well fed, comfortable and happy. Our group consisted of 8 of us plus the 2 leaders which made for a very comfortable time on the Bruck as we had lots of space. Our tents were new and very easy and quick to put up and take down. The campsites were all different and it’s hard to choose a favourite as they all had something special about them, they all had swimming pools and free WiFi (very slow and usually only at reception or bar). The showers and washroom facilities were sometimes excellent and sometimes basic but always adequate. The meals were varied with plenty of vegetables and salad and huge portions. This is an amazingly diverse itinerary, so well thought out, and you get to see the a range of different landscapes and incredible wildlife. Most Inspirational Moment Each day had its own highlight but the stand out moments were: seeing the leopard stalk its prey, the rhinos at Etosha waterhole at night, being up close to the hippos on the Mokuru boat trip, Victoria Falls, climbing Dune 45 for the sunrise, the stunning African night sky and the clarity of the constellations, the White Lady paintings at Brandberg, our first sight of Table Mountain, the penguins at Boulder Beach, walking from Cape Point to the Cape of Good Hope. Thoughts on Group Leader Petrus was our leader but really Petrus and Ende worked as a 2-man team and both were excellent. They clearly had a good relationship and were 2 parts of a whole. Ende had a great sense of humour and infectious laugh but was serious regarding safety and daily briefing. Petrus and Ende had a wealth of knowlege about the wildlife and the countries and took every opportunity to share. They were working every moment of their waking day and their key focus was our safety and enjoyment. Advice for Potential Travellers 1)Do the optional excursions particularly the safari drive in Chobe ($70) on the afternoon you arrive and in Etosha ($60) on the day you move from one camp to another in the National Park, you wouldn't want to miss out on the wildlife sightings. 2) The sunset cruise in Victoria Falls is a must and includes unlimited alcoholic and soft drinks and hot snacks, great value for money. 3) The wine tasting at Highlanders, just before dinner, is a great way to end the last night of camping before heading off to Cape Town. 4) Binoculars are essential. 5)The Bruck has wildlife and bird books but your own copy of WILDLIFE OF OKAVANGO by Duncan Butchart would add to your enjoyment. 6) It was quite cool overnight in some camps so ensure you take some thermals to sleep in if you feel the cold rather than a thicker sleeping bag. 7) If you're going to wash any items the sinks do not usually have plugs so I used the cap of a large water bottle that I found. 8) The trip notes discuss optional tipping but the tips are expected and the amount is prescribed. It's $5 or the equivalent in local currency per person per activity lead by local guides so make sure you have lots of $5 or $10 bills. 9) Namibia accepts South African Rand so we only got SAR. Credit cards are widely accepted. 10) Go up Table Mountain the moment you see the clouds lift otherwise you might miss out on the opportunity. We went on the afternoon we arrived in Cape Town. 11) Some long Bruck journeys on gravel roads so I found listening to Audible Books really useful when I couldn't read. 12) If cocktails are your thing I'd highly recommend visiting Victoria Falls Hotel for a cocktail on the terrace with a view of the Zambezi Bridge and the mist from the falls. Cocktails were £8 with nibbles. We went in the afternoon around 15:30 and there was no need to book. Suggestions I think if would be really useful if you sent out an Exodus Rep to see how the trip works in reality and in order to update your trip notes which I believe are outdated. Everything in the trip notes happens but not always in the same order and some of the prices are out of date. It would be useful to include the optional Chobe afternoon safari and the Etosha transfer safari as to miss them would be to miss out, just add it to the overall cost of the trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/10/2024
Anusha Arasu - Traveled, September 2023
This is a safari and not a holiday Had the most wonderful adventure with our 2 excellent guides Gift and Ende.They worked tirelessly to ensure that our whole group were looked after and happy.The sites were stunning and interesting and the road trip on the bruck was fun !Gift and Ende had enormous and endless knowledge of the animals and places and people.They were fun and entertaining and their cooking was excellent and healthy.Thoroughly enjoyed their company and leadership and Ende’s infectious laugh .Well organised and and fun camping .Good range of optional trips also. Most Inspirational Moment Waterhole experience in Etosha. Thoughts on Group Leader Gift and Ende worked so well together and had great leadership.Gift with his enormous knowledge and his calmness and fun with music.Ende had the most infectious laugh and kept us all together.They were organised and worked tirelessly without break .They accommodated most of our requests. Advice for Potential Travellers Definitely go on this road trip as it is packed with so any things to see.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/12/2023
Aimee Sheldon - Traveled, September 2023
Experience of a lifetime This 3 week programme was fantastic and delivered on everything I thought it would be. Made some friends in the process and our tour guides Gift and Ende were wonderful- they really looked after us and fed us some extremely tasty meals ! This trip will be one I’ll never forget. Most Inspirational Moment Probably climbing up dune 45 for sunrise- I didn't think I'd be able to make it but I did- it was an unforeseen challenge and it reminded me that I can do something if I put my mind to it ! Thoughts on Group Leader Gift was great- friendly and knowledgable. Ende was also absolutely fantastic- great driver and sense of humour - they made a great team. Advice for Potential Travellers It's very much a team trip so expect to muck in with packing up the bruc, washing up etc. it all adds to the energy of the trip !
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/15/2023
Simon Reading - Traveled, September 2023
Excellent Overland Trip with great guides Excellent overland trip, jam packed with Southern African highlights. Trip was led by Gift and Ende who both worked tirelessly to make sure we all got the best from the trip. Most Inspirational Moment Nighttime game viewing around the waterholes in Etosha. Thoughts on Group Leader It worked as a 2-man team (Gift and Ende). I personally thought they were exceptional - I cannot think of a moment they were not working be that driving, cooking or just helping those of us on the tour. Ende was remarkable with his wildlife spotting. Both were good company and good natured throughout. Really good senses of humour. Advice for Potential Travellers Great way of experiencing Southern Africa. Full on trip packed with activities.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/25/2023
Sarah Sharkey - Traveled, October 2022
Vic Falls to Cape Town - Camping An excellent overland trip from Vic Falls to Cape Town. The landscape is stunning and diverse (deserts, rivers, bush) and the wildlife opportunities are some of the best I have experienced in Africa. Our group was great and we were very lucky, managed to see the big 5 up-close. The safari guides were excellent at spotting wildlife and knowing when to be patient and sit-tight – we also saw a cheetah kill. It was the amount of animals that was really surprising – a pride of 16 lions. The water holes in Etosha national park are outstanding, some of them are accessible to view on the campsites – you really don’t have to spot the wildlife it comes to you. Camping was very special and comfortable, nearly all of the sites have hot showers, tents are spacious with camp beds and mats. I really recommend camping – you hear all the wildlife around you during the night. Negpi campsite on the Okavango delta is one of the best I think. Great for viewing hippos in dug out canoes. The camping trip was made all the more enjoyable by our guides, Leroy and Jonathan. A huge shout out to them both, they were both knowledgeable, got us from campsite safety on the truck. Most Inspirational Moment There was so many moments but these are probably my favourites: Namibia - viewing wildlife from the water holes and Etosha national park Chobe National Park - Pride of 16 lions Namibian desert - scenery of Sossusvlei and the desert tour from Swakopmund Negpi Campsite on Okavango Delta - seeing hippos up close and listening to the wildlife during the night Thoughts on Group Leader Leroy and Jonathan were outstanding - we were a group of 12 and there were just the two of them! They worked really hard throughout the trip, helped us with our tents and there were a lot of long days for them in particular. Leroy managed to rustle up great meals on just two camp stoves. Both were excellent behind the wheel and kept us entertained in camp. Advice for Potential Travellers I cannot recommend the camping experience enough, the last week is hard (but I think the rewards are worth it) as you only stay one night in each place but generally you stay for 2 nights.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/10/2022
Ron Wildin - Traveled, October 2022
Victoria falls to Cape town Camping AZVR A well organised trip through 4 countries. 12 of us plus the driver/cook (Leroy) and guide, (Jonathon), both of whom were first class.Vic falls in Zimbabwe then Botswana, Namibia and finally South Africa. We had two man tents approx 2 metres square and the beds plus a foam mattress but weren’t too bad. Stunning scenery and wildlife almost everywhere. The camps were established with usually a shop for basics, often a bar and WIFI that could be purchased and sometimes a pool. Food was excellent with everyone catered for courtesy of Leroy who conjured up many tasty meals. We did 5,647 kms with two or three long days. The ‘bruck’, (bus/truck) was comfortable with plenty of room. Leroy had long days in the drivers seat with roads that were unbelievably long and straight, but coped admirably. Most Inspirational Moment In Botswana we witnessed a pride of 16 lions, the most I have ever seen at one time. A waterhole at a Okaukuejo, campsite in Etosha on one occasion had so many animals round it. Elephants, zebras and many different species of antelopes. As one herd drank and moved away, so another would move in. We probably saw 200 animals that afternoon. In the evening, at the same waterhole there were 6 adult black rhinos plus two calves. Thoughts on Group Leader Jonathon the guide was so knowledgeable with all things African. Advice for Potential Travellers Be prepared for some long days travelling and early starts. A couple of torches and a supply of batteries are essential Suggestions The last five days were three single night stops and two in Cape town. Getting up early, packing away the camp and a long day on the road thrown in was particularly tiring with the 'proper' bed in a Cape won hotel very welcome.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/21/2022
Dean Lenton - Traveled, July 2022
Quality African adventure I would highly recommend this overland adventure to anyone wishing to see the highlights from Vic falls westwards along the Caprivi strip and then down the western coast of Namibia and South Africa to the Cape. There is not much down time as the tour packs in a lot of visits to famous sites, game drives, optional extras and many kilometres of travel. Most Inspirational Moment Its difficult to pick out a single inspirational moment, so here is my list: Viewing Victoria falls. Crashing through the the white waters of the mighty Zambezi river (white water rafting). Game drives and boat trips in Chobe and seeing a lioness with her cubs, Elephants and all the other animals. Camping in Ngepi and watching Hippos in the river and sunset and sunrise. Also the canoeing here. Etosha national park, the game drives and water holes. Taking a Cessna flight over the Kalahari and Namib deserts in Swakopmund. The amazing scenery in Deadvlei. Canoeing on the orange river. The Cape peninsula, including the penguins at Boulders beach. Thoughts on Group Leader Our group leaders (Onary on Andy) were exceptional. On this camping tour they worked very hard to ensure we were safe, well fed and fully informed at all times. Combine the long distances they drove us, the amazing camp meals they cooked, the organization to get us through the borders, the info they gave about animals and locations and their constant good humour shows them to be very professional tour guides. Advice for Potential Travellers Pack as lightly as possible, and be prepared for lots of sand and dust while camping. Take a camera with a good optical zoom and lots of storage media (I took 5k + of hi res photos)! Take clothes for both hot and cold conditions and some travel wash so you can wash them out. Take a 4 seasons sleeping bag as it gets cold at night. Suggestions One suggestion I have for improvement. There are a couple of free days where there are multiple optional excursions available at the location. I would have liked a list (with prices) available a couple of days before arrival so I could decide what I wanted to do. In the event there was quite a lot of confusion with booking optional excursions as the guides had to handle a lot people looking at a lot of options.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/13/2022
Bridget Bennett - Traveled, September 2019
Exceeded all expectations This trip was fantastic from beginning to end. The scenery, particularly in Namibia, is stunning and amazingly varied, and the wildlife viewing (again particularly in Namibia) outstanding. We saw lions mating, black rhinos fighting, several visits by herds of elephants to the waterhole in the Etosha campsite, a cheetah with cubs, and a huge number and variety of other animals. All four boat trips were great, and very different from each other. The desert scenery, en route as well as at the main places we visited, was beautiful. Camping was more comfortable than I’d expected, with camp beds, as was the truck, and we had great food throughout. Also the hotels in Swakopmund and Cape Town were excellent. And of course our guides (Ende, Timon and Tariro) were all excellent – good company and so knowledgeable about not just the wildlife but the culture and history of the countries we passed through. Timon was an excellent and inventive cook, and Ende kept us all safe (and got us to the front for the climb up Dune 45!), while Tariro kept us entertained. Most Inspirational Moment There were too many inspirational moments to settle on one, but if I had to choose, seeing herds of elephants on several occasions visiting the waterhole in Etosha was probably the very best.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/13/2019
Gisela A-D - Traveled, August 2018
Elephantastic This was an amazing trip covering thousands of kilometres, a plethora of wildlife and geological features and some insight into some of the cultures of the countries visited. Most Inspirational Moment I thought it would be the elephants crossing the river at Chobe, or canoeing on the Zambesi, or Victoria Falls, or seeing giraffes or or or - the list goes on. However, the sudden gorgeous orange red glow of the African sunsets will stay with me forever as will sitting by the waterhole in Etosha and watching the animals arrive, especially the 40 elephants. Thoughts on Group Leader Our guides were Ende - the outgoing, but sensitive, leader anxious to please us whilst keeping us in check to make sure that we fitted in a very full itinerary, Andrew who was quietly extraordinarily efficient and always on the lookout to make sure we were all right, and Innocent whose knowledge of birds and stars was phenomenal. Their cooking was amazing - don't believe the trip notes' description of 'basic'. It wasn't long before we felt we were travelling with knowledgeable friends. Thank you Ende, Andrew and Innocent. Advice for Potential Travellers Take a hat, binoculars, anti mosquito spray and keep clothes to a minimum. Warm sleeping bag, (possibly + liner). Some long journeys, so you might want a kindle. Suggestions Great, though if you are just into wildlife, there may be a better trip for you.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/13/2018
Avni Lee - Traveled, July 2018
Amazing Southern Africa Full on tour of Namibia, Chobe, Vic Falls and Cape Town which was enjoyed by my family of 4 , age range 16-53. Should have taken season 3/4 sleeping bags for the camping as southern Namibia is cold at night in August! The hosts Ande Andrew and Innoccent were efficient at running a tight ship. Most Inspirational Moment Chobe National Park at sunset with the birds in their flocks going to roost. Watering holes in Etosha National Park were phenomenal.At one point there were at least 40 elephants by the water together with impalas, zebras, eland and a couple of giraffes,not forgetting various bird species. Sossusvlei dunes ever phenomenal in Namibia and Deadvlei’s skeleton acacias very photogenic. Sunrise and sunsets have left a golden impression of the entire holiday. Thoughts on Group Leader Excellent time keeper who has leadership qualities of an army general which he relaxed once he had sussed out the group. Advice for Potential Travellers For the camping trip ensure you take a suitably warm sleeping bag and clothing . Travel light as there’s a lot of loading and unloading into the truck. Soft back packs are ideal. Suggestions Thank you for a memorable trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/15/2018
Alan Novitzky - Traveled, March 2018
Victoria Falls to Cape Town Really good trip. The three guides/managers, Ende, Molifi and Clifford – complementary characters -were excellent, worked really hard together, always anxious to show passionately aspects of their culture and countryside and draw us in so we could propagate the good news at home. A long route, but periods of driving appropriately broken up with stops at interesting places, and plenty of impromptu stops when interesting birds and animals were spotted out of nowhere by our guides. Good to see village homes and relate to people’s lives at Ngepi – more such opportunities elsewhere would be good. The ballon ride option over the Namibian Desert at sunrise was excellent, but creating time in the programme to ballon at dawn over the sand dunes further south would be good. A day or two more in Cape Town would be welcome – Table Mountain was shrouded in mist but, frustratingly, cleared the day of our departure. For those of us going home on the early afternoon flight via Johannesburg, this was too late, but it would have worked for those on the BA direct flight in the early evening. Exodus should try and book the direct flight whenever possible, to maximise time and avoid disruption. Most Inspirational Moment Amongst many, climbing the crest of a sand dune to watch the sun break above the horizon and cast moving, curved shadows over the undulating landscape, bringing it to gently stiring three dimensional life. Meeting wonderfully open and welcoming people, rightly proud of their countries. Watching in awe as an enormous bull elephant in heat, with just one tusk, lumbered up, turned to look at us for a while in our game jeep, metaphorically shrugged its shoulders, and moved on. That could have been difficult, murmured our guide. Thoughts on Group Leader Al three excellent, worked together wonderfully. Can still hear Ende’s ever present infectious laugh. Advice for Potential Travellers Spare torch and plenty of batteries. Take South African Rand - these are welcomed in Namibia on a one to one basis for the Namibian Dollar. A sheet sleeping bag for the warmer nights in the tropics.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/15/2018
Fiona Allan - Traveled, October 2017
An adventure not to be missed From beginning to end this was an amazing adventure ….every day filled with wow moments Most Inspirational Moment So many, the mighty Victoria Falls, watching the elephants play in Chobe, the peace gliding down the Orange River or the spectacular Fish River Canyon. For me the just watching the activity at the water hole in Etosha.....fantastic Thoughts on Group Leader Siza and Endi (and Sylvia in Namibia) were just brilliant. Cant believe what Siza managed to cook on BBQs and gas rings!!! Food was fabulous.....Endi was always there with a smile and the most infectious laugh....I'm only 5 foot tall and he made sure he was always there to help with the tent because I was "height challenged". Sylvia was only with us in Namibia but her knowledge and passion for the animals, birds and plants was evident ....she was brilliant. Advice for Potential Travellers Just go with the flow. This is not a holiday it's an adventure. Be prepared to be hands on, this was NOT a fully serviced camping trip, we were expected to erect and dismantle our own tents. There are some long drives but worth every minute. Suggestions Just book it...
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/10/2017
Louie Tham - Traveled, April 2017
Great Varied Trip Great trip if you want a combination of wildlife and scenery. The camping was comfortable, campsites generally good, some suberbly located. Most Inspirational Moment Sesriem Sand Dunes, Vic Falls helicopter flight, Chobe evening game drive where we saw lions,giraffes,elephants, hippos,impalas, springboks, baboons, amongst others in 3 hours ! Thoughts on Group Leader Andrew was terrific : made the trip that much more enjoyable. Advice for Potential Travellers Previous advice about a washing line with hooks was very useful. Suggestions just do it - southern Africa in all it's glory.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/16/2017
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