A recently completed 15-day guided safari tour offered guests the chance to discover some of Southern Africa’s most iconic landscapes, cultural stories, and exceptional wildlife. From the thunderous Victoria Falls to majestic Moremi, this Botswana and Zimbabwe safari package was a perfect, intimate guided safari experience.
Our recent travellers loved their tour guides’ friendly nature, whose expertise and knowledge brought to life the unique stories of each country. Historical insights and conservation experiences were just some of the many engaging elements that stayed with guests long after their African safari tour ended.
“Our guide was very knowledgeable.” — Tour Traveller
This was not just a safari; it was a gateway to exploring Southern Africa’s raw, wild, and intimate heart. Here are just some of the amazing opportunities and animal encounters our guests experienced on this unforgettable Botswana and Zimbabwe safari package.
Helicopter Flights Over Victoria Falls
Day 1-2
Travellers began their incredible African adventure at one of the seven natural wonders of the world — Victoria Falls. Standing at the base, guests took in the immense curtain of water, feeling the cooling spray on their skin.
For those tour participants seeking a unique perspective, there was an opportunity to soar above the falls on a scenic helicopter ride, capturing breathtaking aerial views of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other travellers looking for more thrilling activities had the chance to bungee jump 128 metres from the historic Victoria Falls Bridge, ride through bush and game areas on a horse-riding safari, or tackle white-water rapids.
Guests took a guided walk during which they learned the captivating story of ‘Mosi oa Tunya’ — The Smoke That Thunders — a name given by the local Kololo tribe. As their time at Victoria Falls came to an end, the group prepared for a wilder adventure in Botswana’s Chobe National Park.
Big Five Safaris in Hwange and Chobe National Parks
Day 3-5
Chobe
Chobe National Park is the second-largest national park in Botswana, covering over 10,566 km². It is home to one of the greatest concentrations of elephants found on the African continent. This park was an incredible stop for guests to encounter African wildlife in a raw, natural setting.
After some relaxation, the next day began early. Guests ventured out before sunrise to witness wildlife at its most active, then returned for a late breakfast. While the animals sheltered from the afternoon sun, our guests did not. Relaxing on a boat cruise along the Chobe River, they hoped to spot riverbed wildlife. Elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and birds were among the many animals sighted, providing some fantastic photo opportunities.
Hwange
From Botswana, the group crossed into Zimbabwe and entered the incredible Hwange National Park. With two dedicated game-drive days, guests had ample opportunities to spot the Big Five. While some of the Big Five may have been sighted in Chobe, Hwange is known for offering a more comprehensive Big Five experience.
During these drives, guests were completely immersed in the wildlife haven that is Hwange. The park is home to large herds of elephants, buffalo, and zebras, with a notable concentration of giraffes. Travellers never tired of the abundance of wildlife on offer, from mixed herds to predator sightings. Hwange also provided the chance to encounter endangered species and a variety of birdlife. After the excitement of the game drives, the itinerary shifted to a slower pace for a more intimate encounter with Zimbabwe’s riverbed wildlife
Intimate Houseboat Safari Experience on Lake Kariba
Day 6-7
As part of their Botswana and Zimbabwe safari package, guests boarded a houseboat for a relaxing two-night trip, floating on the gorgeous man-made inland lake that is Lake Kariba. It was the perfect halfway point. Nestled within the mountains, guests could take in the sights, share stories with their guide, and laugh over drinks before dinner was served and wildlife watching began.
The next morning offered a variety of activities. Guests had the choice between early morning fishing, guided bush walks, or even more game viewing! After brunch, the houseboat moored at one of Kariba’s sandy island beaches.
After such a peaceful and scenic experience, it was time for guests to head back to land and immerse themselves in the history and landscapes of Matobo Hills.
Rhino Tracking and Rock Art in Matobo Hills
Day 8-9
The exquisite beauty of Matobo Hills was an engaging stop on the tour, rich in tribal history, ancient mystery, and dramatic rock landscapes. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is home to sable antelope, white and black rhinos, and prolific birdlife, including the highest concentration of black eagles in the world. As the historic home of the Khoisan, this area was a perfect stop for guests interested in both cultural history and conservation practices.
Endless lessons were shared about the vast rock artwork and the final resting places of both the great Ndebele king, Mzilikazi, and colonial figure Cecil John Rhodes. Guests visited the ‘Hill of the Benevolent Spirit’ before tracking rhino spoor by vehicle and on foot across the savannah. Their time in Matobo Hills ended with a visit to Rhodes’ grave before continuing on to Nata, Botswana.
Meerkats on the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans
Day 10
After driving through the savannahs of southern Matabeleland en-route to Botswana, the group stopped at Nata Bird Sanctuary for a chance to capture magnificent views over Sua (Sowa) Pan — part of the Greater Makgadikgadi Salt Pans. Following this stop, travellers continued to one of the two extraordinary pans that make up the Makgadikgadi Pans.
The Ntwetwe Pan is among the largest salt pans in the world and showcases some of Botswana’s most distinct landscapes and extraordinary creatures. Famous for its rocky outcrops, dunes, islets, and channels, Ntwetwe allowed guests to search for uniquely adapted desert creatures such as bat-eared foxes, springbok, kori bustards, and meerkats.
Here, the group observed these socially superbly adapted animals interacting with one another and their environment. Thanks to the ongoing habitation programme, it was possible for guests to get up close and personal with these captivating creatures, making for an incredible once-in-a-lifetime experience.
“Seeing the meerkats was the highlight of my trip.” — Tour Traveller
Before leaving the Makgadikgadi Pans, guests explored nearby villages with a local guide whose knowledge has been inherited from their forefathers. They experienced modern African village culture and learned about the traditions of the Botswana people before enjoying a guided walk through the impressive baobab grove. Here, the guide explained the local ecology, geology, and unique biology of baobabs, which are in fact not trees but the largest succulents in the world.
Mokoro Safaris on the Okavango Delta
Day 11-12
After the guests’ spectacular day at the Makgadikgadi Pans, it was time to unwind and experience the town of Maun, known in Botswana for its safaris and as the gateway to the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site. The group could choose to spend some time relaxing or, for those still up for adventure, book an optical scenic flight over the delta.
As they floated through the thick vegetation of the Okavango Delta in dug-out mokoro traditional canoes, travellers discovered a variety of birds and wildlife. This was the perfect way to experience the delta and reflect on their time spent in Africa before heading to their last accommodation and destination.
Night Game Drives and Tented Stay in Moremi Reserve
Day 14-15
Ending this incredible intimate 15-day Botswana and Zimbabwe safari package through Botswana and Zimbabwe, the group stopped off in Moremi, where they continued to explore the unique accommodation of Mankwe’s safari tented camp, complete with en-suite bathrooms, a bar, and swimming pool. This was the perfect time to relax among the bush, closing their eyes to the sounds of nature and feeling the warmth of the African sun.
“Mankwe was amazing and exceeded my expectations.” – Tour Traveller
Guests then prepared for their final intimate wildlife experience in Moremi Game Reserve, one of the most beautiful and varied reserves in Africa. They spent their last perfect day in the unspoiled nature of Moremi before having dinner and heading out for a night drive to spot some fantastic nocturnal creatures.
Ready to start planning your own intimate adventure? Explore our African Safari Tour Packages for unforgettable journeys, including our popular Botswana and Zimbabwe package.
Bookings: info@jenmansafaris.com
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Your Adventure, Our Expertise!
When is the best time to do this Botswana & Zimbabwe safari package?
For peak wildlife density and dry roads, aim for June–October (dry season).
You’ll get classic big-game viewing in Chobe, Hwange, and Moremi, plus cooler days.
If your highlight is mokoro time and shimmering channels, the Okavango flood typically peaks June–August.
Victoria Falls is thunderous with spray March–May (great from the air), while September–December reveals more geology and rainbows (better ground visibility).
November–March brings green landscapes, newborns, and superb birding, with short afternoon storms; sightings are still excellent but bush is thicker.
Tell us your top priorities (Falls views, cats on the hunt, mokoro levels, birding), and we’ll time the route to match.
What’s included and which activities are optional upgrades?
Typically included on this guided small-group safari: accommodation (lodges/tented camps + Lake Kariba houseboat), most meals, park fees, scheduled game drives, a Chobe River cruise, mokoro outing in the Delta, road transfers, and a professional guide throughout.
Optional, at extra cost: Victoria Falls helicopter flight, bungee/rafting, additional scenic Okavango flight, premium drinks, laundry, gratuities and more.
We’ll confirm a precise inclusion list on your quote so there are no surprises.
Prefer more photography time, private vehicle days, or a lodge upgrade in Moremi/Chobe? Opt for a tailor-made, we can swap or add activities without disrupting the flow of the itinerary.
Do I need visas or special paperwork for Zimbabwe & Botswana border crossings?
You’ll cross borders multiple times.
Ensure your passport is valid 6+ months beyond travel with 2–3 blank pages.
Many nationalities are visa-free for Botswana and can obtain a Zimbabwe visa on arrival; if your route re-enters Zimbabwe, you may need a double-entry visa.
Requirements vary by passport, we’ll advise for your nationality and route.
If you transit via a yellow-fever risk country, carry an international yellow-fever certificate.
Minors may need additional documents when travelling with one parent/guardian.
Border fees and payment methods can change, bring a bank card + small cash for formalities, and keep your travel insurance and itinerary handy.
How active is the trip, can families and first-timers join?
This itinerary is easy–moderate.
Most days feature vehicle-based game drives with regular rest stops.
Activities suited to most travellers include a Chobe boat cruise, Lake Kariba houseboat stay, and mokoro outing (sitting low in stable dug-outs).
Rhino tracking in Matobo can involve short guided walks on uneven terrain, great for active travellers; we can arrange gentler alternatives.
Minimum ages may apply for some activities.
First-timers love this route for its variety and smooth logistics.
What should I pack for a Botswana & Zimbabwe safari?
Think layers + neutral tones: breathable shirts, a warm jacket/hat for cool winter mornings (May–Aug), and a light rain shell for Nov–Mar showers.
Add comfortable closed shoes, polarised sunglasses, wide-brim hat, reef-safe sunscreen, lip balm, and insect repellent.
For sightings: binoculars (8×42/10×42), spare camera batteries/cards, a beanbag for vehicle support, and a dry bag for mokoro/boat days.
Bring a small headlamp, power bank, universal travel adaptor, and any personal meds (ask your clinic about malaria prophylaxis).
Use a soft duffel (space-efficient on vehicles), and avoid drones, permits are required and often restricted in national parks and near the Falls.
