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15 Day Northern Skies - Swakopmund to Victoria Falls/Livingstone [NS]

Route:

Swakopmund - Cape Cross - Brandberg Mountain - Twyfelfontein - Kamanjab - Etosha National Park - Rundu - Okavango Delta - Kwando River - Mudumu National Park - Chobe National Park - Botswana - Victoria Falls and surrounds - Zambia - Livingstone

Northern Skies

Travel from Swakopmund to Victoria Falls on our Northern Skies Lodge safari - explore Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe on our popular African safari.

A small group lodge, no participation, safari from Swakopmund to Victoria Falls through Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe.

Highlights
Swakopmund, Himba Experience, Rock paintings in Brandberg and Twyfelfontein, Etosha National Park, Okavango Delta, Caprivi, Mahangu National Park, Chobe National Park, Victoria Falls. 

Duration: 15 day(s)
Group Size: minimum 4 people, maximum 12 people
Type of Safari: Lodge Safari

Accommodation:
We make use of mid-range typical African standard lodge accommodation.
Accommodation is situated either in National Parks, on the banks of a river, or in other places of interest. The accommodation will be a mix of lodges, chalets and tented camps. Most of them have a private bathroom with a shower and toilet, whilst others have shared ablutions available. Some properties are equipped with swimming pools and/or bar areas.

 

Itinerary:

Day 1 & 2 : Swakopmund, Namibia [B]  
You will meet your guide and the rest of the group at the A la Mer Hotel in Swakopmund. For the rest of the day as well as the following day you have the opportunity to partake in the many optional activities that are on offer. Alternatively just soak up the atmosphere of this little quaint German town and enjoy its beauty and beaches.
Accommodation: Hotel A La Mer or similar (standard rooms with en-suite bathrooms)

Day 3: Cape Cross Seal Colony and Brandberg, Namibia [BLD]  
We follow the barren Atlantic Coast line on our way out of Swakopmund to visit Cape Cross - the largest breeding place of the Cape Fur Seals. Leaving the cold Atlantic coastline behind we then head inland across the desert plains for Brandberg, the highest mountain in Namibia. Either this afternoon or the next morning we take a walk to visit the “White Lady” one of the most famous rock paintings in the area. The footpath to the site offers spectacular views over the plains of Damaraland.
Accommodation: Brandberg White Lady Lodge or similar (Rooms with en-suite bathroom, swimming pool, bar & restaurant)

Day 4: Twyfelfontein, Petrified Forest and Himba Village, Namibia [BLD]  
On our journey today we will stop to see ancient Bushmen paintings at Twyfelfontein as well as the Petrified Forest, the trees of which are estimated to be 250 million years old. Twyfelfontein was named a World Heritage site in 2007, the first in the country. Depending on the time of arrival we go and explore a traditional Himba village this afternoon or the next morning. This will be a journey of culture exchange, learning and understanding of the last traditional tribe in Namibia, the Ova-Himba.
Accommodation: Oppi Koppi Restcamp or similar (Chalets with en-suite bathrooms, swimming pool, bar & restaurant)

Day 5: From Kamanjab to Etosha National Park, Namibia [BLD]  
After our cultural experience in Kamanjab, we head to Etosha National Park. Etosha Game park was declared a National Park in 1907, it is home to approx. 114 mammal species, 340 bird species, 110 reptile species, 16 amphibian species and, surprisingly, one species of fish.
Accommodation: Okaukuejo or similar (rooms with en-suite bathrooms, swimming pool, bar & restaurant)

Day 6 & 7: Etosha National Park, Namibia [BL, BL]  
We fill the next 2 days spent on game drives in the hopes of spotting some of the Big Four as well as cheetah, giraffe, zebra and the numerous different types of antelope the park has to offer. Our nights are spent at the flood lit waterholes encountering the parks various nocturnal animals as they come to drink.
Accommodation (day 6): Okaukuejo or similar (rooms with en-suite bathrooms, swimming pool, bar & restaurant)
Accommodation (day 7): Namutoni or similar (rooms with en-suite bathrooms, swimming pool, bar & restaurant)

Day 8: Etosha to Kavango River, Namibia [BLD]  
Our journey continues east as we drive along the Caprivi Strip to the town of Rundu. We make our way to Kaisosi Lodge and spend a relaxing afternoon at our lodge on the banks of the Kavango River. Optional activities such as a visit to a traditional village and school or a sunset cruise are available. Alternatively just relax by the pool with a sundowner listening to the sounds of Mother Nature.
Accommodation: Kaisosi River Lodge (rooms with en-suite bathrooms, swimming pool, bar & restaurant)

Day 9 & 10: Kavango River to Okavango Delta, Botswana [BLD, BLD]
We leave Namibia for Etsha 13, on the western border of the Okavango Delta in Botswana. Unlike other deltas, it flows into the Kalahari Desert without reaching the coast, which makes it unique. The next day is spent exploring the network of water pathways floating through thick vegetation in mokoros (traditional dugout canoes), discovering a variety of birds and wildlife. We stop at a secluded island to take a 1½ hour guided walk hoping to spot elephants, waterbuck or other animals living in this water filled paradise.
Accommodation: Guma Lagoon Camp or similar (permanent tents with en-suite bathroom, bar area)

Day 11: Okavango Delta to Caprivi, Namibia [BLD]
Leaving Botswana, we drive up the western border of the Okavango Delta before crossing back into Namibia and driving through the Caprivi to our camp on the banks of the Kwando River. Enroute to camp we will go on a game drive to the Mahangu National Park which is rich in fauna and flora. In the park you have the chance of spotting game such as sable and roan, elephants, hippos, buffalos, and many types of antelope. For bird watchers the Mahangu National Park offers more than 420 different bird species.
Accommodation: Camp Kwando (permanent tented chalets with en-suite bathrooms, swimming pool, bar & restaurant)

Day 12 & 13: Chobe National Park, Botswana [BLD,B]
The next morning we head along the Caprivi and cross the border back into Botswana to Kasane, the gateway to the Chobe National Park. Chobe, which is the second largest national park in Botswana and covers 10,566 square km, has one of the greatest concentrations of elephant found on the African continent. In the afternoon we go on a cruise on the Chobe River, a truly unforgettable experience and one of the best ways to view the wildlife and the spectacular sunset.
Accommodation: Chobe Bush Lodge, Chobe Marina or similar (rooms with en-suite bathrooms, swimming pool, bar & restaurant)

Day 14: Chobe National Park to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe [BL] 
Continuing our trip we leave Botswana and drive to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. Your guide will take you on a tour of the mighty Victoria Falls, known by the local Kololo tribe as Mosi oa Tunya- “the Smoke that thunders”. The rest of the day may be spent at leisure or partaking in one of the many activities on offer.
Accommodation: A’Zambezi River Top Lodge or similar (rooms with en-suite bathrooms, swimming pool, bar & restaurant)

Day 15: End of tour [B]  
Our safari ends after breakfast, when you will be transferred to Victoria Falls Airport. We hope to welcome you again one day on another of our African adventures.

Inclusions & Exclusions

*Please note all rates are subject to change according to rate of exchange fluctuations.

Included in the price:
- 14 nights in fixed accommodation
- All transport in fully equipped vehicle
- Game drives and activities as mentioned
- Meals as per itinerary
- Park entrance fees
- Experienced local guide

Excluded in the price:
- Travel insurance
- Flights
- Pre and post tour accommodation
- Optional activities
- All drinks, tips and curios
- All personal expenses

Meal Key:
B – Breakfast    L – Lunch     D – Dinner

 

 

Extra information

Departure
The Northern Skies Safari departs from Hotel A La Mer in Swakopmund, Namibia. Please note that the daily departure times are a guideline only and are subject to change due to seasonal variations, as well as unforeseen circumstances. The final decision rests with your guide who will advise you at what time you will be departing each day. On the evening of day 1, there will be a meeting presented by your guide, at 18h00 at your lodge. It is imperative that all clients attend this meeting so as not to miss out on any critical information. Whilst it is our every intention to adhere to the above mentioned itinerary, there may on occasion be a necessity to make alterations in order to make the tour more enjoyable or practical. Therefore please treat the itinerary as a guide only.

Transport
Fully equipped Toyota Land Cruisers, 12-seater 4x4 safari vehicles or other appropriate vehicles with comfortable seating, large windows for game viewing, a music- and PA-system and air-conditioning are being used. All luggage, besides hand luggage and photo equipment, is carried on the vehicle or trailer roof racks to ensure maximum comfort in the vehicle. For transfers between Kasane and Victoria Falls (or vice versa), 2x4 vehicles may be utilised.

Travelling Times and Distances
All travelling times are affected by road conditions, border crossings, detours and weather conditions, therefore on certain days travelling times may be longer than anticipated especially where there is a lot of distance to be covered. Please keep in mind that the time it takes to travel 100 km in your home country is not equivalent to the time it takes to travel 100 km on African roads, therefore we encourage you to sit back and enjoy the spectacular scenery Africa has to offer. Where possible additional stops will be made to ensure your travelling comfort at all times.

Accommodation
We make use of mid-range typical African standard lodge accommodation. Accommodation is situated either in National Parks, on the banks of a river, or in other places of interest. The accommodation will be a mix of lodges, chalets and tented camps. All of them offer a private bathroom with a shower/bath and toilet. Some properties are equipped with swimming pools and/or bar and restaurant areas.

Local Payment
A local payment is required on your Jenman Safari and will be collected by your Jenman guide on the day of departure. The local payment is part of the overall tour cost and is used to pay some of the day to day operational costs that are incurred while we are on the road.
We try to prepay as many of the costs as possible however in some cases cash payment on arrival is the only option as some of the attractions we visit on safari only accept cash. Examples include park fees at most of the national parks, a few accommodations or camp sites and any local food markets we visit to stock up on fresh produce during the tour as well as local guides.
The local payment also ensures that a portion of your tour cost actually goes directly to the countries you visit, thus benefiting local communities as well as contributing to conservation of the areas we visit.
Essentially having a local payment means your tour price is a bit lower and give you a more inclusive experience!

Spending money
Clients are advised to bring enough money to cover the purchase of curios, tips, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, water and additional entertainment. US Dollars, Pound Sterling, South African Rand and Botswana Pula are the most practical and convenient currencies.

Meals
Where included most breakfasts and dinners will be enjoyed in the restaurants of the various accommodation establishments, however on certain nights the guide will provide an authentic meal for the group, which will be enjoyed together in the evening, often around a camp fire. Please advise us of any special dietary requirements in advance.

First Aid
Our guides are trained in basic first aid and the vehicle is equipped with a comprehensive medical aid kit. Preventative Malaria medication should be taken before the trip and throughout its duration, although it is advisable to consult a doctor prior to departure.

Luggage
Maximum baggage allowance: 15 kg. Jenman Safaris stipulates this luggage allowance, as an overloaded vehicle is a danger to both the clients and the guide. This does not include photographic equipment and a small daypack. Please bring a backpack or soft barrel bag, not a suitcase. Don't bring too much clothing, as there are washing opportunities along the way. Please adhere to the allowance specified as space for luggage is limited.

Insurance
It is compulsory for all travelers to have insurance covering their personal requirements, medical expenses and personal possessions. This is to be arranged before leaving your home country. SA Tours and Safaris can assist you with your travel insurance, please enquire with our consultants for further information.

Visas
The onus is on the client to organize all visas required for clients to visit Zimbabwe, Botswana and Namibia prior to departure. Please note that travellers entering Botswana will be required to present a valid international health certificate of vaccination for yellow fever should they originate from or have travelled through countries which have been declared yellow fever infected areas within the preceding 6 months.