Victoria Falls and Botswana | 2026

Victoria Falls and Botswana | 2026

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9 Days From

$2965

$2817

Victoria Falls and Botswana | 2026

9 Days Starting in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and ending in Maun, Botswana

Visiting: Victoria Falls, Chobe National Park, Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, Okavango Delta, Maun

Tour operator:

Contiki

Tour code:

AAVBMA26

Specialist Group:

18-30 Somethings

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

18-35

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Interests:

Wildlife Tours

From: $2965 $2817 Barrhead discount: -$148

NB: Prices correct on 19-Oct-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the natural wonders of Zimbabwe and Botswana with the "Victoria Falls and Botswana | 2026" tour. Begin your adventure at the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, where you can experience the thrill of white water rafting on the Zambezi River and enjoy a sunset cruise. Cross into Botswana to explore the wildlife-rich Chobe National Park, famous for its elephant population, and enjoy a night under the stars in the African bush. Continue to the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans for a unique safari experience, and then delve into the heart of the Okavango Delta, where you'll have the chance to spot the 'Big Five' and enjoy a traditional campfire dinner. Conclude your journey in Maun, with optional helicopter flights offering breathtaking views of the delta. This tour promises an immersive experience in some of Africa's most iconic landscapes.

Highlights

  • Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders and the largest waterfall in the world.

  • White water rafting along the Zambezi River.

  • Guided walking safari in Zambezi National Park.

  • Helicopter ride above Victoria Falls.

  • Safari in Chobe National Park, known for its huge elephant population.

  • Exploration of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, one of the largest salt flats in the world.

  • Game drives and wildlife spotting in the Okavango Delta.

  • Optional Mokoro boat trip along the waterways of the Okavango Delta.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Start Victoria Falls

Location: Victoria Falls

Accommodation: Shearwater Explorer's Village (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Shearwater Explorer's Village (or similar)

Excited much? Make your own way to your accommodation in Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders and the largest waterfall in the world. You might want to pack your raincoat, as during certain times of the year you can get drenched from the rising spray, giving the falls its local name: 'The smoke that thunders'. Please note: From January to June this trip puts you in the Victoria Falls Waterfront Hotel, Zambia, with a riverside deck and bar that overlooks the spray of the thunderous falls. Travelling from July to December? Don't worry, you're not missing out: we'll put you up in the Shearwater Explorers Village, Zimbabwe, just 400m from the falls - with bohemian cafes, curio markets and swimming pools to explore. It's win win, basically.

Day 2: Victoria Falls

Location: Victoria Falls

Accommodation: Shearwater Explorer's Village (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Shearwater Explorer's Village (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today you have the chance to try white water rafting along the Zambezi river. There's also a locally guided village tour - get to know the locals and experience their way of life. End the evening with a magnificent sunset cruise including drinks and dinner.

Day 3: Victoria Falls To Chobe

Location: Chobe National Park

Accommodation: Contiki Safari Camp (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Contiki Safari Camp (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

We start today on foot, to literally ‘walk on the wild side’ with a guided walking safari along the Zambezi’s National Park. This is a unique way to track wildlife on foot while learning about some of the smaller animals – plus plants and just generally anything we come across. Afterwards, we go from foot mode to flight mode with a helicopter ride above the thunderous waters below - the best way to see the falls in all their glory. Then it’s across the border to Botswana for more of what we love. I.e., safaris! This time, it’s the world-famous Chobe National Park, known for its huge elephant population. Tonight, you’ll truly experience the wilderness with a night out in the middle of the African bush. We have a private Contiki site just for us, with our own guides, cooks and a bonfire – all set under the stars. After dinner, you’ll get the chance to fall asleep to the sounds of Africa: a jackal calling in the distance, the loud whoop of a hyena, perhaps the roar of lions as they wake from a daytime slumber. Catch you later, city life!Please note: Overnight Camping in Chobe won't be available during the Summer from October to March. Instead, you'll spend two nights at our lodge with Chobe Sunset and Sunrise Game Drives still included plus a buffet dinner.

Day 4: Chobe

Location: Chobe National Park

Accommodation: Kwalape Safari Lodge (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Kwalape Safari Lodge (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning we'll wake up to watch the sunrise over the African bush with a light breakfast, before departing on a morning game drive to hopefully see some of the wildlife we may have heard the night before. We will arrive late morning to check into our new lodge and spend the rest of the day relaxing around the pool and swapping stories from the night before. On our last evening together you can opt for a wildlife cruise on the Chobe river. Surrounded by pods of hippos, crocs basking on the banks and all forms of African animals coming down to drink, this is truly one African sunset you'll never forget followed by a buffet dinner tonight.

Day 5: Chobe To Makgadikgadi Salt Pans

Location: Makgadikgadi Salt Pans

Accommodation: Gweta Lodge (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Gweta Lodge (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Dumela Botswana! We’ll head south today from Kasane 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.

Day 6: Makgadikgadi Salt Pans To Okavango Delta

Location: Okavango Delta

Accommodation: Contiki Safari Camp (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Contiki Safari Camp (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

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?

Day 7: Okavango Delta

Location: Okavango Delta

Accommodation: Contiki Safari Camp (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Contiki Safari Camp (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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.

Day 8: Okavango Delta To Maun

Location: Okavango Delta

Accommodation: Island Safari Lodge (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Island Safari Lodge (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

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.

Day 9: End Maun

Location: Maun

Meals Included: Breakfast

After a last breakfast together its time to say goodbye to new found friends and an incredible time in Botswana.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is provided at various locations including Shearwater Explorer's Village, Contiki Safari Camp, Kwalape Safari Lodge, Gweta Lodge, and Island Safari Lodge.

  • Meals

    The tour includes 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 3 dinners.

  • Guided Tours

    Guided walking safari along the Zambezi’s National Park and locally guided village tour are included.

  • Game Drives

    Morning and afternoon game drives in Chobe National Park and Okavango Delta are included.

  • Sunset Cruise

    A sunset cruise on the Chobe River is included.

  • Campfire Dinners

    Campfire dinners are included at the Contiki Safari Camp.

What's Not Included

  • International Flights

    International flights to and from the starting and ending locations are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities such as white water rafting, helicopter rides, and Mokoro boat trips are not included.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Visa Fees

    Visa fees for entry into Zimbabwe and Botswana are not included.

Dining Summary

  • 8 Breakfast (B)
  • 3 Dinner (D)
  • 1 Lunch (L)

Mode of Transport

Travel through Zimbabwe and Botswana with a mix of guided walking safaris, helicopter rides, and game drives. Experience the thrill of open safari vehicles and optional Mokoro boat trips, ensuring a seamless journey through breathtaking landscapes and wildlife havens.

Accommodation

Experience a blend of comfort and adventure with stays at Shearwater Explorer's Village near Victoria Falls, Contiki Safari Camp in the heart of the Okavango Delta, and Kwalape Safari Lodge in Chobe. Enjoy bohemian cafes, private campsites, and luxurious dome tents with all the amenities.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of wildlife can I expect to see during the tour?

    During the tour, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife including elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and potentially some predators. The tour includes game drives in Chobe National Park and the Okavango Delta, which are known for their rich wildlife.

  • Are there any unique experiences included in the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes several unique experiences such as a helicopter ride over Victoria Falls, a night drive in the Okavango Delta to spot nocturnal animals, and a sunset cruise on the Chobe River surrounded by wildlife.

  • What kind of accommodations are provided during the tour?

    Accommodations during the tour include stays at Shearwater Explorer's Village, Contiki Safari Camp, Kwalape Safari Lodge, Gweta Lodge, and Island Safari Lodge. These accommodations range from lodges to exclusive safari camps with pre-erected tents.

  • Is there an opportunity to interact with local communities?

    Yes, on Day 2 of the tour, there is a locally guided village tour where you can get to know the locals and experience their way of life.

  • What activities are available at the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans?

    At the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, you have the option to cruise the salt pans in open safari vehicles in search of a meerkat colony and take perspective photos in one of the largest salt flats in the world.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Northern Choice plus Kaikoura

16-Jan-2023

The trip ran so smoothly and was well organised! The extra add ons were amazing and all the services were spot on. Food places were reasonable. I'm definitely booking my next contiki trip again soon!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Sophie  

Exceptional customer service

14-Jan-2023

Contiki were exceptional in providing customer service. They provided me with lots of information and were quick in responding to all my questions. I found that they were super helpful.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

First time traveling with Contiki. Highly recommend! You’ll have a blast

17-Jan-2023

First time traveling internationally since Covid and glad I spent the trip with Contiki. The travel, lodging, meals, activities everything was planned effortlessly. Going to Greece in may with contiki. Highly recommend

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Amazing trip. Made great friends and memories. Can’t wait for my next trip

15-Jan-2023

I had 24 people on my contiki and I think it was the perfect number, we all got to know each other well and got along great. Our tour guide was fun and knowledgeable, the hotels were nice and in great locations.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Tanner Stokes  

My amazing trip to Africa

13-Jan-2023

Sherif was an excellent tour guide. He was extremely knowledgeable about every single small detail at each site that we visited. In addition to his great service, he has a glowing spirit that made me feel like I had family with me the entire trip. Anything that I was concerned about, he always had an answer and was there to help. I truly enjoyed my experience and will purchase a tour with him in the future

Feefo Trusted Reviews

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Barrhead discount: -$825

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Barrhead discount: -$825

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Barrhead discount: -$825

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Barrhead discount: -$825

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$4125 $3300

Barrhead discount: -$825

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Barrhead discount: -$825

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Barrhead discount: -$825

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Barrhead discount: -$825

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Barrhead discount: -$825

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Barrhead discount: -$825

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Barrhead discount: -$825

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Barrhead discount: -$825

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Barrhead discount: -$891

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Barrhead discount: -$891

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Barrhead discount: -$891

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$4455 $3564

Barrhead discount: -$891

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Aug 01, 2026 - Aug 09, 2026
$4455 $3564

Barrhead discount: -$891

Saturday - Sunday

Aug 08, 2026 - Aug 16, 2026
$4455 $3564

Barrhead discount: -$891

Saturday - Sunday

Aug 22, 2026 - Aug 30, 2026
$4455 $3564

Barrhead discount: -$891

Saturday - Sunday

Aug 29, 2026 - Sep 06, 2026
$4455 $3564

Barrhead discount: -$891

Saturday - Sunday

Sep 05, 2026 - Sep 13, 2026
$4455 $3564

Barrhead discount: -$891

Saturday - Sunday

Sep 19, 2026 - Sep 27, 2026
$4455 $3564

Barrhead discount: -$891

Saturday - Sunday

Sep 26, 2026 - Oct 04, 2026
$4455 $3564

Barrhead discount: -$891

Saturday - Sunday

Oct 03, 2026 - Oct 11, 2026
$4455 $3564

Barrhead discount: -$891

Saturday - Sunday

Oct 17, 2026 - Oct 25, 2026
$4455 $3564

Barrhead discount: -$891

Saturday - Sunday

Oct 24, 2026 - Nov 01, 2026
$4455 $3564

Barrhead discount: -$891

Saturday - Sunday

Oct 31, 2026 - Nov 08, 2026
$4455 $3564

Barrhead discount: -$891

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 14, 2026 - Nov 22, 2026
$4455 $3564

Barrhead discount: -$891

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 28, 2026 - Dec 06, 2026
$4455 $3564

Barrhead discount: -$891

Saturday - Sunday

Dec 12, 2026 - Dec 20, 2026
$4455 $3564

Barrhead discount: -$891

Saturday - Sunday

Dec 26, 2026 - Jan 03, 2027
$4455 $3564

Barrhead discount: -$891

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.

    Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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