Signature: Kruger, Victoria Falls & Botswana's Untamed Wonders

Signature: Kruger, Victoria Falls & Botswana’s Untamed Wonders

• Trip code: 4B5X015
• Dauer: 17
• Stil: National Geographic Signature

Feel the rhythm of Johannesburg's urban rebirth before tracking the legendary Big Five through the golden grasslands of Kruger National Park. Stand enveloped in the thundering mist of Victoria Falls, sweep across the vast salt crust of the Makgadikgadi Pans, and glide past hippos in the Okavango Delta on an ultimate Southern African expedition.

Übersicht

Checklist

Cold Weather:
• Long-sleeved shirts or sweater
• Scarf
• Warm gloves
• Warm hat
• Warm layers
• Warm waterproof jacket

Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
• Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)

Essentials:
• Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket

Health & Safety:
• Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Hand sanitizer
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)

Safari:
• Lightweight, breathable clothing (required) (Neutral tones, like khaki, olive, and tan are recommended. Avoid bright colours and camouflage patterns.)
• Evening attire ("Smart casual" for dinners at the lodges (e.g., linen trousers, sundresses, or collared shirts))
• Layers (Early morning game drives can be quite cold, even in summer. Bring a high-quality fleece or windproof jacket.)

Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sturdy water shoes/sandals
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear

Bitte beachte: Seasons in Southern Africa are quite extreme. Winters (May to October) can be really cold and summers will be really hot. It is important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings, as well as a warm jacket for early morning wildlife safari drives

Highlights

Gain a deeper understanding of the ripple effects spanning from Mandela's life and legacy, Set out on safari drives through Kruger in pursuit of the legendary Big Five, Capture wildlife up close on the Chobe River with guidance from an expert photographer, Stand at the edge of The Smoke That Thunders — Victoria Falls in all its elemental force, Meet a National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project researcher for a talk on this vibrant delta, Join a wildlife biologist at a research centre for a private presentation on human-elephant coexistence, Witness the abundant wildlife in the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, Spot birds and animals from a traditional mokoro canoe and motorized boat

Introduction

Feel the rhythm of Johannesburg's urban rebirth before tracking the legendary Big Five through the golden grasslands of Kruger National Park. Stand enveloped in the thundering mist of Victoria Falls, sweep across the vast salt crust of the Makgadikgadi Pans, and glide past hippos in the Okavango Delta on an ultimate Southern African expedition

Meal Budget

Plane USD80-105 für nicht inbegriffene Mahlzeiten ein

Optional Activities

Keine optionale Aktivitäten

Start / Finish

Johannesburg nach Maun

What's Included

Dein G-for-Good-Moment: Shabalala Interpretation of Culture Centre Visit, Hazyview
Dein G-for-Good-Moment: Mittagessen bei Lusumpuko Women's Club, Victoria Falls
Dein Welcome-Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group, Johannesburg
Signature Moment: Private Tour & Talk at the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Johannesburg
Signature Moment: Private Zambezi River Dinner Cruise, Victoria Falls
Signature Moment: Pangolin Photo Safari Cruise on the Chobe River, Chobe National Park
Signature Moment: Living with Elephants, Makgadikgadi Pans. Arrival transfer. Welcome dinner. Internal flight from Johannesburg to Hoedspruit. Afternoon safari drive with an Endangered Wildlife Trust conservationist in the Greater Kruger Area. Morning and afternoon safari drives in the Thornybush Private Game Reserve. Kruger National Park Safari Drives. Internal between Kruger and Victoria Falls. Attend the Simunye Theatre Show and meet the cast. Private, guided tour of Victoria Falls. Talk given by the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust. Chobe National Park Safari Drives. Internal Flight from Kasane to Maun. Meet with a researcher from the Nkashi Trust team which implements the National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project. Internal flight from Maun to the Makgadikgadi Pans. Morning and afternoon wildlife safari drives in Makgadikgadi Pans over multiple days. Internal flight from the Makgadikgadi Pans to the Okavango Delta. Morning and afternoon wildlife safaris by motorboat and traditional mokoro in the Okavango Delta over multiple days. Farewell Dinner. Departure Transfer. Engaging Discussions with the National Geographic Expert Throughout. Porterage at hotels and when getting on and off of vehicles. Tips are included for all activities, meals and porterage, except for your Expedition Leader. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodation

Hotel (6 nt), Safari Lodges (10 nts)

Group Leader

National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert throughout

Group Size Notes

Max 22, avg. 16

Transport

Private vehicle, 4x4 safari vehicle, boat, plane, mokoro, walking

Packing Note

Seasons in Southern Africa are quite extreme. Winters (May to October) can be really cold and summers will be really hot. It is important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings, as well as a warm jacket for early morning wildlife safari drives

Internationale Flüge

No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour.

However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details.

In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport

Meals Included

16 Frühstück, 10 Mittagessen, 16 Abendessen

Minimum Age

Um ohne Begleitperson mit G Adventures zu reisen, musst du mindestens 18 Jahre alt sein. Das Mindestalter für Kinder in Begleitung eines Erziehungsberechtigten (über 21) beträgt 12 Jahre

Itinerary

Day 1 Johannesburg

Welcome to South Africa. Your expedition begins at the airport where you will be met and transferred to your comfortable hotel in Johannesburg. In the evening, gather with your National Geographic Expedition Leader and fellow travellers, followed by a welcome dinner. Get to know one another and prepare for the experience ahead

Day 2 Johannesburg to Greater Kruger Area via Hoedspruit

Visit the Nelson Mandela Foundation for a tour of Madiba’s post-presidential office, a quiet space filled with the history of his legacy. In South Africa, Madiba is an affectionate and respectful name for Mandela, originating from his Xhosa clan name, and symbolizing deep admiration of his legacy. Later, fly to the Greater Kruger area and settle in at your safari lodge. This afternoon, meet a researcher from the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) and learn about their vital work protecting cheetahs and wild dogs, and supporting local communities. Afterward, head off on your first safari drive in the private reserve with the researcher, scanning the bush for Africa's famed ‘big five’ as the sun begins to lower

Day 3 Greater Kruger Area

Rise early for a wildlife safari drive, spotting lions, elephants, and other famous species in the soft, golden light of dawn—the prime time for viewing. Return to the lodge for a hot breakfast and leisure time to relax on the deck, listening to the sounds of the bush. This afternoon, during high tea, join a talk to gain deeper insight into local conservation efforts and the area's intricate ecosystems. After an afternoon safari tracking wildlife through the reserve, return to the lodge to refresh before gathering for dinner, sharing stories from an unforgettable day in the bush

Day 4 Greater Kruger Area to Kruger National Park via Hazyview

Begin with a morning safari drive in the reserve, returning for breakfast before checking out. Travel to Hazyview for a stop at the Shabalala Interpretation of Culture Centre, an immersive experience of traditional dress, rhythmic dance, and local cuisine. Continue to your lodge, a restored train permanently suspended on a historic bridge over the Sabie River—a vantage point like no other. Check in and refresh before high tea and a talk on local wildlife. Afterward, embark on a safari drive in Kruger National Park—South Africa's largest wildlife sanctuary—returning to the lodge for dinner above the river

Day 5 Kruger National Park

Spend the day on morning and afternoon safari drives, scanning the bush for lions, elephants, leopards, and other iconic wildlife moving through the vast Kruger landscape. Return to the lodge for meals and free time to relax, perhaps watching hippo or buffalo in the river below from the train bridge. During high tea, join a talk on conservation and local ecosystems. After your afternoon drive, gather for a dedicated bush dining experience, sharing stories of your African adventure under a canopy of stars—a fitting conclusion to your time in the wilderness

Day 6 Kruger National Park/Victoria Falls

Fly to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and settle into your lodge, enjoying welcome cocktails with stunning views over the Batoka Gorge, carved deep by the Zambezi River. In the evening, experience the Victoria Falls Theatre’s award-winning production, "Simunye: The Spirit of Africa." Meet the cast behind this vibrant celebration of African music, dance, and storytelling—an exclusive experience that offers true cultural immersion through rhythm and performance

Day 7 Victoria Falls

Start your day with a guided tour of Victoria Falls, feeling the mist of Mosi-oa-Tunya (‘The Smoke that Thunders’) as you witness its raw power up close. Next, visit the Lusumpuko Women’s Club—a G for Good Project—for a cooking demonstration and traditional lunch prepared by the cooperative members. Return to the lodge to hear from the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust about their rescue work. As the sun sets, set out on a dedicated dinner cruise along the Zambezi River, watching the water turn to gold. A special guest will share tales of explorer David Livingstone, making this evening unforgettable

Day 8 Victoria Falls/Chobe National Park

After breakfast, drive through Zambezi National Park and cross into Botswana. Arrive at your hotel, settle in, enjoy a light lunch. During high tea, join a talk to gain deeper insight into the park’s conservation efforts before boarding eco-friendly, electric boats to take in the stunning vistas and wildlife along the Chobe River. Spot elephants along the water’s edge and relax with a sundowner on deck. Return to the lodge for dinner by the river, accompanied by the sounds of the African night

Day 9 Chobe National Park

Start the day with an early morning safari drive through Chobe National Park, spotting majestic elephants, lions, and impala in the cool air. Return to the hotel for a hearty brunch. Then transfer to meet your dedicated, professional photo host before embarking on a Chobe River photo safari with camera equipment included. Glide along the southern channel of the Chobe River in search of elephants, hippos, and birdlife, capturing stunning wildlife shots with expert guidance along the water. Conclude the day with one final safari drive into the national park as you sip an included sundowner. Return to the lodge for a farewell dinner, celebrating your incredible journey through Southern Africa

Day 10 Chobe National Park/Maun

Wake up early for a final safari drive in the National Park in search of resident wildlife before continuing deeper into the heart of Botswana for more exploration and adventure. Catch a flight south from Kasane to the town of Maun, our jumping-off point for the days ahead. Settle into the hotel and spend the afternoon relaxing before a reception in the evening to welcome any new travellers joining the tour for the next leg of the expedition

Day 11 Maun/Makgadikgadi Pans

Start the day with a visit to the Nkashi Knowledge Centre. Here, meet an inspiring researcher from the National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project for an illuminating presentation on the origins of the Okavango Delta. Next, transfer to the airport for a scenic flight over changing landscapes to the Makgadikgadi Pans, one of the largest salt flats in the world. The afternoon calls you into the bush for an exhilarating safari drive in the national park. Scan the horizon for zebras and wildebeest and the predators that naturally follow such as: lion, leopard, cheetah, and hyenas. Cap off the day with a traditional boma dinner beneath a brilliant canopy of stars

Day 12 Makgadikgadi Pans

As dawn breaks over the pans, set out on a morning safari drive to spot wildlife at their most active. Later, meet with a leading wildlife biologist for a presentation on the delicate balance of human and wildlife coexistence, followed by a visit to the local research centre. Back at the lodge, keep an eye out for elephants at the hidden water-level hide, offering panoramic views over Makgadikgadi Pan National Park, ideal for viewing wildlife on the river’s edge. Conclude the day with an afternoon safari drive before dinner

Day 13 Makgadikgadi Pans

The golden morning light guides you on another safari drive through the rich habitats of Makgadikgadi Pan National Park, keeping an eye out for the resident wildlife in their natural environment. Under the midday sun, stay cool and relax at the lodge, perhaps visit the lodge’s secret hide to spot birds or grazing animals drinking at the edge of the Boteti River. Following another thrilling safari drive, the evening transitions to the warmth of the crackling campfire. Sink into your seat and share stories from the day

Day 14 Makgadikgadi Pans/Okavango Delta

Board an early flight into the lush green heart of the Okavango Delta, watching the arid plains transform into an intricate puzzle of shimmering waterways below. After lunch, attend an insightful afternoon talk regarding the National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project. Learn about the ongoing efforts to secure permanent, sustainable protection for this vital watershed and its rich biodiversity. Afterwards, feel the spray of the water on your face during a boat safari, navigating the channels as the setting sun turns the delta waters into liquid gold

Day 15 Okavango Delta

Awaken to the symphony of the delta and enjoy a light breakfast before your morning safari. Glide through the glass-like water in a traditional mokoro dugout canoe, listening to the gentle splash of the paddle, then step ashore for a guided nature walk across remote islands to track wildlife on foot. Spend a quiet afternoon at a secluded bird-viewing hide, watching kingfishers and herons fly above the reeds. Following afternoon tea, set out again by boat for another aquatic safari before settling into the lodge for the evening and gathering around the campfire

Day 16 Okavango Delta

Head out in search of more wildlife with a morning boat safari. Watch for pods of hippos and basking crocodiles as you navigate by mokoro and motorboat, and discover the small wonders of the delta's ecosystems on an island walking excursion. Back at the lodge, spend the midday hours relaxing or gazing out from the bird-viewing area to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the local avian life. Following afternoon tea, a final boat ride reveals the delta's timeless beauty at twilight. Toast your unforgettable African expedition during a celebratory farewell dinner with your companions

Day 17 Okavango Delta/Maun

Enjoy a final breakfast at the lodge, listening to the rustle of the palms and the distant calls of the bush one last time. Board a flight back to Maun, enjoying a final bird’s-eye view of the vast, winding delta channels you have explored. Your extraordinary wildlife expedition concludes upon arrival at the Maun airport

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 Johannesburg

Day 2 Johannesburg to Greater Kruger Area via Hoedspruit

Day 3 Greater Kruger Area

Day 4 Greater Kruger Area to Kruger National Park via Hazyview

Day 5 Kruger National Park

Day 6 Kruger National Park/Victoria Falls

Day 7 Victoria Falls

Day 8 Victoria Falls/Chobe National Park

Day 9 Chobe National Park

Day 10 Chobe National Park/Maun

Day 11 Maun/Makgadikgadi Pans

Day 12 Makgadikgadi Pans

Day 13 Makgadikgadi Pans

Day 14 Makgadikgadi Pans/Okavango Delta

Day 15 Okavango Delta

Day 16 Okavango Delta

Day 17 Okavango Delta/Maun