Okavango Delta & Deserts

Dumela Botswana! We start our adventure in the town of Kasane and head south to Gweta Lodge on the edge of the Makgadikgadi Salt pans. Opt to cruise the salt pans in open safari vehicles in search of a meerkat colony while getting some funky perspective photos in one of the largest salt flats in the world.

Tonights treat is sundower drinks under an icon of Botswana before retiring to the lodge for dinner and drinks at the bar. (D) Stay: Gweta Lodge (or similar)

We will say goodbye to the pans (for now) and head on to the wildlife haven that is the Okavango Delta Our minds already blown by this unique natural landscape, it's off to the Okavango Delta, where we'll take an awe-inspiring game drive before settling into our exclusive Contiki Safari Camp. We'll be greeted with luxe two person dome tents - pre-erected of course - with stretchers, mattresses and linen. Dinner? How about a campfire meal as we swap tales under a starswept sky? (B/D) Stay: Contiki Safari Camp (or similar)

Get your David Attenborough voice on, we're in the heart of Africa's iconic wildlife filming paradise. This sprawling wetland is home to some of Africa's most incredible species and after a quick bite to eat we're off on an early morning game drive in the Okavango Delta in hopes of spotting elephants, hippos and (if we're lucky) some predators. We'll head back to camp for a tasty lunch and siesta. Chill in the camp or opt for a Mokoro boat trip along the gorgeous waterways of the delta.

In the afternoon we're back on another jaw-dropping game drive before our traditional campfire dinner. This evening we've a once in a lifetime opportunity - a night drive in the bush with spotlights seeking out elusive nocturnal animals you can't find during the day. (B/L/D)

Another morning at the Delta (the struggle is real.) After coffee and breakfast at sunrise, it's time for another morning game drive – eyes peeled for elephants – as we make our way out of this wildlife paradise. Check into the lodge, chill by the pool and then take to the skies in an optional Okavango Delta helicopter flight. Hover just meters above the waterways or fly high for stunning views of this unique inland delta and of course, don't forget your binocs for some wildlife spotting from the air. If you've got a head for heights, you won't find views more spectacular than this anywhere in the world.

Tonight, you'll polish off your last night in Botswana with a night in the town. The Okavango Delta Brewery calls, offering a tour, tasting and dinner for you to enjoy. (B) Stay: Island Safari Lodge (or similar)

We've got a big day ahead of us today. We'll traverse two countries as we leave Botswana and head into Namibia. We'll say goodbye to your first Trip Manager in Maun, cross the border and arrive in Windhoek later that evening. We'll be welcomed by our local Namibian Trip Manager who will take charge for the rest of the adventure. Keep your eyes peeled (and cameras ready) for stunning Savannah scenery along the way.

Welcome to the Namibian capital! Tonight we'll tuck into a delicious dinner, and you'll have time to go shopping for any last-minute supplies (AKA snacks, sunblock etc). (B) Stay: Town Lodge, Windhoek (or similar)

We'll make our way to Etosha National Park today, but not before we've checked out some of Windhoek's iconic attractions. We'll hit the open road with our eyes peeled for beautiful desert scenery, stopping off at a few cultural hotspots too. We'll have lunch in Otjiwarongo and then after that, it's all eyes on Etosha! After checking in at the lodge, you'll have a bit of free time to chill by the pool.

Tonight we'll head out for a walkabout dinner in Outjo – fuelling up before the big safari day tomorrow. (B) Stay: Ijaba Lodge (or similar)

We'll wake up bright and early this morning, ready to embark on our first big game drive in Namibia. Prepare yourself for a wildlife experience like nowhere else on Earth. Eyes peeled for desert-savvy antelope too! We'll head back to the lodge for lunch, and then you'll have some free time to sunbathe and relax.

Tonight we'll take a sunset walk and then enjoy a buffet dinner back at the lodge. (B/D)

Today we'll head west to the coastal town of Swakopmund. Along the way, we'll stop off in the Erongo Mountains to visit the San Bushmen of Omandumba. They'll teach us their local language, and educate us on how they survive and thrive in the harsh desert conditions. You can also check out their handmade arts and crafts too – perfect if you're hunting for souvenirs.

Our next stop-off is the ‘Matterhorn of Namibia', where we'll have lunch and bask in the beauty of the towering granite peaks. We'll check into our hotel together, and then you'll have a free night to explore and find somewhere to eat. (B) Stay: Prost Hotel (or similar)

Here we are in the adventurer's paradise that is Swakopmund. First up, we're heading to the ocean…Here in Walvis Bay, we'll head to Pelican Point for a kayaking trip like no other. Look out for seals, dolphins, and even whales too(! ).

This afternoon you're free to explore Swakopmund at your leisure. Check out the local restaurants and bars, hit the dunes for some active adventures, or do both (if you're feeling ambitious).

Tonight we'll take a township tour where you'll meet local people, learn all about their way of life, and feast on a homemade dinner at a traditional restaurant. (B)

This morning we'll take a long (but beautiful) drive into the Namibian desert. On the way, we'll stop for lunch at Solitare – a one-horse town famous for its apple pie.

This evening, we'll arrive at our lodge near the Soussusvlei salt and clay pans! Framed by some of the highest sand dunes in the world, this is one of the most iconic and jaw-dropping attractions in the whole of Namibia. After checking in, you'll have the chance to have a little swim, and then we'll head out for a sunset desert drive – followed by a buffet dinner back at the lodge. (B/D) Stay: Soft Adventure Camp (or similar)

We're up early this morning to visit Namib-Naukluft National Park – eyes open for Oryx and other desert-dwelling wildlife. Once we hit the sand dunes, we'll leave the jeep and go for a walk along Big Daddy sand dune down into nearby Deadvlei. Expect unrivalled 360° views, and to hear yourself constantly saying “So THAT'S where my desktop background comes from! ” 

After lunch, we'll hit the road for a final picturesque drive back into Windhoek. We'll Check in, freshen up and then head out for a farewell dinner at the famous Joe's Beerhouse. (B) Stay: Town Lodge, Windhoek (or similar)

Rise, shine, prep your goodbyes and get planning for the big reunion (same time next year, anyone? ). But before the trip ends officially, we'll all enjoy one last hearty breakfast together. (B)