Sample Trip

A Self-Drive Odyssey Through Namibia, Botswana & Zimbabwe

"A beautifully curated 28-day journey combining Namibia’s vast landscapes with Botswana’s wildlife-rich Chobe and the iconic Victoria Falls."

Budget level: Budget

Country

Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe

When to Go

All year

Duration

26 Nights

Safari Type

Self drive

Location

Etosha National Park, Hwange, Sossusvlei, Swakopmund, Victoria Falls, Windhoek, Zambezi Region (Caprivi)

Kids Min Age

All Ages

Chobe Elephant Camp Activities Botswana Safarifrank Authentic Safari Holiday18

zimbabwe hwange national park robins camp 23

Safari Rating

adventure

wilderness

wildlife

comfort

photographic

guiding

This sample journey has been designed for travellers who crave independence while still enjoying the comfort of pre-selected lodges and curated experiences. It follows a smooth route from Namibia’s desert heart through lush river systems and ends with some of the best wildlife viewing in Botswana and Zimbabwe. The itinerary is intentionally paced, especially toward the end, allowing you to unwind after the busy northern parks and reflect on your adventure before returning home.

Itinerary in Brief

1 Night The Elegant Guesthouse

2 Nights Kalahari Anib Lodge

2 Nights Desert Homestead Lodge

2 Nights Swakopmund Guesthouse

2 Nights Uis Elephant Guesthouse

2 Nights Twyfelfontein Adventure Camp

2 Nights Etosha Omusati Lodge

2 Nights Onguma Bush Camp

2 Nights Taranga Safari Lodge

2 Nights Camp Kwando

1 Night Zambezi Mubala Camp

2 Nights Chobe Elephant Camp

2 Nights Pioneers Victoria Falls

2 Nights Robins Camp

Your journey begins in Namibia, a country defined by vast horizons, shifting desertscapes, and striking contrasts. From the burnt-orange dunes of Sossusvlei to the wildlife-rich plains of Etosha, Namibia offers the perfect introduction to Southern Africa – a place where silence, space, and natural beauty take centre stage. As you settle into the rhythm of the region, you’ll explore ancient rock engravings, encounter desert-adapted wildlife, and wander through coastal towns shaped by culture and history.

Crossing into Botswana, the adventure continues at Chobe Elephant Camp, where the riverfront teems with elephants, buffalo, predators, and extraordinary birdlife. From here, you’ll experience unforgettable boat cruises and game drives in one of Africa’s most wildlife-dense ecosystems.

Your journey then leads to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, staying at the warm and welcoming Pioneers Lodge. The thunderous waterfall, vibrant town, and endless activity options set the stage for an exciting finale before heading to Hwange National Park. For your last nights, you’ll unwind at Robins Camp – an atmospheric base from which to explore Zimbabwe’s largest national park, home to vast elephant herds, thriving predators, and breathtaking landscapes.

This journey blends Namibia’s beauty, Botswana’s wildlife, and Zimbabwe’s natural wonders into one extraordinary self-drive adventure – a trip you will remember long after returning home.

Highlights

Journey through Namibia’s most iconic landscapes, including Sossusvlei, Twyfelfontein, Swakopmund, and Etosha.
Experience the wildlife-rich river systems of the Kavango, Okavango, Kwando, and Zambezi regions.
Enjoy exceptional game viewing in Chobe National Park and Hwange National Park.
Witness the power and beauty of Victoria Falls – one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Encounter diverse cultures, desert-adapted wildlife, and ancient geological formations.
A beautifully paced route that blends adventure, landscapes, and relaxation across three countries.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1-2: Windhoek Day 2-4: Kalahari Desert Day 4-6: Sossusvlei & Namib-Naukluft Day 6-8: Swakopmund Day 8-10: Uis Day 10-12: Twyfelfontein Day 12-14: Etosha South Day 14-16: Onguma Nature Reserve Day 16-18: Rundu (Kavango River)Day 18-20: Kwando River (Caprivi Strip)Day 20-21: Zambezi River (Katima Mulilo)Day 21-23: Chobe Riverfront (Botswana)Day 23-25: Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)Day 25-27: Hwange National Park

Day 1-2: Windhoek

Namibia’s Welcoming Capital

Windhoek is a friendly, cosmopolitan city that blends modern African energy with German colonial heritage. Wide avenues, tidy streets, and a relaxed atmosphere make it an ideal starting point before your adventure begins. Explore landmarks like the Christ Church, the Independence Museum, or browse local craft markets. It’s also the perfect place to stock up on last-minute essentials before heading into the wilderness.

Accommodation:

Stay at The Elegant Guesthouse: A stylish, centrally located guesthouse offering comfort, warm service, and easy access to cafés and city highlights.

Day 2-4: Kalahari Desert

The Kalahari – Endless Red Dunes & Desert Calm

The Kalahari stretches across much of southern Africa, known for its warm red sands, camel-thorn trees, and iconic wildlife including oryx, springbok, jackal, and cheetah. Despite being semi-arid, the region is alive with colour and movement. Sunsets are a particular highlight – soft, golden, and unforgettable.

Accommodation:

Kalahari Anib Lodge: A welcoming lodge nestled among the dunes, offering sundowner drives, walking trails, and sweeping desert views.

Day 4-6: Sossusvlei & Namib-Naukluft

Sossusvlei – Home to the World’s Highest Dunes

Enter the Namib-Naukluft, a landscape of towering red dunes, salt pans, and surreal beauty. Witness sunrise over Sossusvlei, wander through Deadvlei’s ancient trees, and explore the desert’s wildlife, from oryx to ostrich. This region is a photographer’s paradise and a highlight of every Namibian journey.

Accommodation:

Desert Homestead Lodge: A charming lodge set among desert hills, offering peace, comfort, and perfect positioning for early excursions into Sossusvlei.

Day 6-8: Swakopmund

Swakopmund – Atlantic Breezes & Desert Adventures:

Swakopmund sits between ocean and desert, offering cool sea air, German-influenced architecture, and plenty of activities. Enjoy a desert tour in search of the “Little Five”, a dolphin cruise from Walvis Bay, or simply stroll along the promenade and indulge in excellent seafood.

Accommodation:

Swakopmund Guesthouse: A modern, elegant guesthouse in the heart of town, perfect for exploring restaurants, beaches, and adventure activities.

Day 8-10: Uis

Uis – Land of Desert Elephants & Starry Skies:

The Uis region, surrounded by the Erongo Mountains, is known for its rugged beauty and desert-adapted elephant populations. It’s a quieter, less-visited area that rewards travellers with space, silence, and astonishing night skies.

Accommodation:

Uis Elephant Guesthouse: A boutique guesthouse offering guided desert elephant excursions and the option of magical sleep-outs under the stars.

Day 10-12: Twyfelfontein

Twyfelfontein – Ancient Rock Art & Dramatic Landscapes

Twyfelfontein is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to thousands of San rock engravings dating back more than 6,000 years. Explore the Organ Pipes, Burnt Mountain, and striking desert scenery where desert elephants roam the dry riverbeds.

Accommodation:

Twyfelfontein Adventure Camp: A comfortable tented camp set in a stunning canyon landscape, ideal for exploring Twyfelfontein’s archaeological treasures

Day 12-14: Etosha South

Etosha South – Wildlife Encounters on a Grand Scale

Etosha National Park is one of Africa’s greatest wildlife reserves. The southern region offers excellent self-drive game viewing with elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, rhinos, and vast herds of antelope. Etosha’s salt pan and waterholes create dramatic, reliable wildlife sightings.

Accommodation:

Etosha Omusati Lodge: A modern lodge close to the park’s southern gate, ideal for daily game drives and relaxed evenings in nature.

Day 14-16: Onguma Nature Reserve

Onguma – Private Reserve Rich in Wildlife

Bordering Etosha’s eastern edge, Onguma offers 34,000 hectares of protected wilderness. Expect sightings of lion, cheetah, plains game, and an impressive variety of birds. Guided activities provide deeper insight into the ecosystem, including rhino conservation projects.

Accommodation:

Onguma Bush Camp: A family-friendly lodge overlooking a lively waterhole, offering guided drives into both Onguma and Etosha.

Day 16-18: Rundu (Kavango River)

Kavango Region – Rivers, Wildlife & Local Culture

Entering northern Namibia, landscapes turn lush and water-rich. The Kavango River supports vibrant birdlife, riverside villages, and peaceful scenery. This is a place to slow down, enjoy boat trips, and immerse yourself in the region’s gentle pace.

Accommodation:

Taranga Safari Lodge: A riverside lodge with beautiful chalets on the water’s edge — ideal for sunset cruises and relaxation.

Day 18-20: Kwando River (Caprivi Strip)

Kwando River – Wild Wetlands & Big Game

The Kwando region is among Namibia’s most wildlife-rich river systems. Expect elephants, hippos, crocodiles, buffalo, and prolific birdlife. Nearby reserves offer rewarding game drives, while the river is perfect for scenic boat outings.

Accommodation:

Camp Kwando: A rustic lodge with tents and chalets along the riverbank — a relaxing base for river and park explorations.

Day 20-21: Zambezi River (Katima Mulilo)

Zambezi River – Lush, Tropical & Scenic

This region marks your final nights in Namibia, where waterways, forests, and vibrant culture meet. It’s a softer, greener landscape filled with birdlife and river views — a beautiful transition before entering Botswana.

Accommodation:

Zambezi Mubala Camp: A comfortable tented camp on the Zambezi River, offering tranquillity and direct access to river activities.

Day 21-23: Chobe Riverfront (Botswana)

Chobe – Elephant Kingdom of Africa

The Chobe Riverfront is famous for its enormous elephant herds, thriving predator populations, and breathtaking boat safaris. Sunsets here are extraordinary, and wildlife sightings are constant along the floodplains.

Accommodation:

Chobe Elephant Camp: A character-filled, eco-friendly lodge overlooking the river plains, offering expertly guided drives and cruises.

Day 23-25: Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)

Victoria Falls – The Smoke That Thunders

One of the world’s natural wonders, Victoria Falls is a must-see. Explore the rainforest trails, admire viewpoints draped in mist, shop local markets, or try adrenaline activities like helicopter flights or bungee jumping.

Accommodation:

Pioneers Victoria Falls: A charming boutique lodge offering warm hospitality, beautiful gardens, and easy access to the falls and town.

Day 25-27: Hwange National Park

Western Hwange – Big Game & Open Wilderness

Hwange is Zimbabwe’s largest national park, home to exceptional elephant populations, predators, wild dogs, and over 100 mammal species. The western region offers open plains, natural seepages, and superb game viewing.