After a leisurely breakfast we transfer to the 4x4 vehicle for an initial visit to the nearby Nata sanctuary to view the spectacular shallow salt pans for their unique bird life and other desert species of animals they attract.

DAY 3: MAUN

(13- day fly-inn passengers join here)

Leaving the pans, we drive directly to the Drifters Maun Inn. This inn is situated on the banks of the Boteti River, near Maun, and offers us the opportunity to rid ourselves of the Makgadikgadi dust under a warm shower. In the afternoon we will visit Maun to resupply, and to collect any fly-inn passengers before returning to the inn for a traditional “braai” and a night of relative comfort. (Breakfast, lunch & dinner.)

DAY 4-7: OKAVANGO DELTA

The Okavango needs little introduction, a massive river spilling its contents into the Kalahari desert sands, creating one of the world’s only true inland deltas, and a unique ecosystem that supports a huge variety of animals and plantlife. The sight of a nervous Lenchwe pounding across a flooded plain, the Jacana striding delicately amongst the flowering lilies, the Bee Eater diving to prey on an unsuspecting insect, and of course the familiar cry of the African Fish Eagle all combine to create one of nature’s masterpieces. We spend three nights camping in a remote part of this wilderness, exploring the area on foot, and by mekoro, the traditional aquatic mode of transport. There will also be time to simply appreciate the remoteness and serenity of the area.

Late on day 7 we return to the Drifters Maun Inn to spruce up before heading into town for a catered meal at a local restaurant (own expense). (Breakfast & Lunch)

(In times of drought, it may not be possible to travel by mekoro, on such occasions we will explore the delta on foot, by vehicle, or we may replace a day in the delta with a visit to the Nxai Pan National Park.)

We pop back into Maun first thing in the morning, and whilst the guide stocks up with supplies for the onward journey, you have the option of an hou'r game flight over the Delta. Now we prepare for the game viewing part of the trip.  Perched high on our well-equipped vehicle we head north on the highway of sand, passing remote villages and curio sellers along the way. We spend five days in these reserves, starting with Moremi, camping the first night near the well-known 3^rd Bridge. Drift of to sleep with to the howl of the hyena or the earthy roar of a Lion, and even the deep grunt of a half-submerged Hippo. We then head on north via Xakanaxa to camp near North Gate. This area is excellent for game viewing and we will conduct afternoon and morning game drives along the wetland areas.

Then on up to the Savuti where we normally spend two nights. The area offers a multitude of game drive options and a very active campsite (keep the fruit well hidden from the roving Elephant, and the meat from the prowling Hyenas). The vegetation is constantly changing, form open plains, palm trees and marshlands, to dense Mopane woodlands and Arcacia scrub.

Moving into Chobe, famous for its large herds of Elephant, which gather on the flood plains, we spend the morning exploring the banks of the majestic Chobe River. Here we hope to see the Puku, found exclusively on the Chobe flats. We then leave the park to camp on the banks of the river in Kasane.

DAY 13-14: VICTORIA FALLS

Then, after the tedious sandy miles, it is with new excitement that we make for Zimbabwe and the fantastic Victoria Falls, “Mosi o Tunya”, the smoke that thunders. After admiring this wonder of the world, various other places can be visited, such as the tribal village, the big tree, the curio market and the croc farm. A 20 minute flip over the falls or a boat trip on the Zambezi river are both worthwhile. Please note that whilst in Victoria Falls it is possible to take part in the one day Zambezi White Water Rafting adventure or even a suicidal bungi jump of the 100m high bridge. This is an experience not to be missed, but allowance must be made for the extra expense.

We spend town nights at the Drifters Victoria Falls Inn, thus allowing people the opportunity to explore, either on foot or bicycle, by themselves, and even venture into Zambia should they wish.

(Breakfast & Dinner)

 The last night at Victoria Falls we all celebrate our experiences with a slap-up meal at a local restaurant (own expense).

Relax to the sound of the African night and the distant roar of the falls and drink the farewell toasts to your adventure.

DAY 15: VICTORIA FALLS – NATA

The people flying out on the 13-day tour will do so here and overlanders will return to Botswana and complete the triangle back to Nata. Camp for the last time and share your experiences with the next tour just arriving. (Dinner own expense).

DAY 16: NATA – JHB