Wild & Scenic Botswana Self-Drive

Upon arrival at Maun International Airport, guests will collect a 4WD Land Cruiser, receive an orientation on the vehicle, and drive to the lodge. Thamalakane River Lodge is beautifully situated on the banks of the Thamalakane River within a canopy of riverine forests, approximately 20 minutes from Maun. Accommodation is in stone chalets with stunning river views. The chalets are complete with mosquito nets and ceiling fans. Á la carte meals are served from the restaurant and guests can enjoy sunsets by the swimming pool and some amazing bird sightings.

Overnight at Thamalakane River Lodge – Breakfast.

Guests depart Maun early and travel north to the Okavango Panhandle, a driving-time of approximately 4-5 hours. A representative of Nxamaseri Island Lodge will meet arriving guests at the turn off to the lodge. The rental vehicle will be kept in a secure parking area for the duration of their stay.

Overnight at Nxamaseri Island Lodge – Dinner + activities.

Join a guided day trip to Tsodilo Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its rock art. Originally inhabited by the San people, this region preserves more than 4 500 paintings in an area of only 10km². The Okavango Panhandle is famous for fishing. Guests can enjoy mokoro excursions as well as sunset cruises.

Overnight at Nxamaseri Island Lodge – Fully Inclusive.

Guests enjoy breakfast, and an optional morning activity, after which they are transferred to their vehicle for the onward journey. From here they will drive to Camp Kwando, located in the Zambezi Region.

Overnight at Camp Kwando – Dinner.

There is a great deal of wildlife in the Zambezi Region (formerly Caprivi Strip). Animals, including herds of buffalo and elephant, are attracted to the lush vegetation and permanent water, and because of this, there are numerous predators in the area. The area boasts magnificent permanent marshes creating the perfect habitat for water-loving animals. Hippo and crocodiles are abundant in the rivers and antelope such as waterbuck, red lechwe and the rare semi-aquatic sitatunga thrive in the marshes.

Overnight at Camp Kwando – Dinner and breakfast.

Guests drive to Kasane, the junction of 4 countries (Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Namibia). They will spend next 3 nights at Chobe Safari Lodge, which is well-positioned on the Chobe River and an ideal springboard into Chobe National Park. A variety of activities are available to guests during their stay. An early morning game drive in Chobe National Park is the best time to view the abundant wildlife. Or later, guests can watch the sun set over the Chobe region, whilst enjoying a drink on board a boat. Guests can enjoy an optional full day guided tour to Victoria Falls. The day is spent at leisure taking in the magnificent falls. The more adventurous visitors can book a scenic flight over the Victoria Falls or bungee jump over the Zambezi River. The evenings can be spent at leisure.

Overnight at Chobe Safari Lodge – Dinner and breakfast.

Depart for Gweta a driving-time of approximately 4 hours, Overnight at Planet Baobab, a fun and quirky, traditionally decorated lodge. Guests can enjoy a guided excursion to the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans. Search for the semi habituated meerkats who afford photographers unique opportunities. Guests can explore the pans and gain an understanding of this iconic landscape. An educational bush walk, accompanied by a registered guide, is another activity available to guests. They can then spend the evening at leisure.

Overnight at Planet Baobab – Dinner, breakfast and activities.

Guests depart after breakfast and travel to Maun under their own arrangements, a journey that will take approximately 2 hours. The afternoon and evening are spent at leisure.

Overnight at Thamalakane River Lodge – Breakfast.

After breakfast, guests can make their own way to Maun International Airport to return the 4WD rental vehicle in time for any onward arrangements.

Optional tours en route:

Cruise on the Zambezi River

Tour of Victoria Falls

Game viewing in Chobe