UBPDC - Spotting Oryx in Etosha NP, Namibia
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Operated by Intrepid Travel

Premium Botswana & Namibia

From
CAD 13,064
Duration
17 days
Countries
Botswana, Namibia
Activity
easy
Group size
Max 12
Rating
5.0 · 2 reviewsvia Intrepid Travel

The adventure

From ethereal landscapes to rich wildlife, experience the best of Botswana and Namibia on a 17-day Premium adventure. Look out for wildlife in Chobe National Park, cruise down the Zambezi River, hang out with a family of meerkats and admire the curious beauty of the Makgadikgadi Pans. Marvel at the desert landscapes of Swakopmund and Sossusvlei, uncover petrified forests in Damaraland and search for animals in the vast Etosha National Park. With the guidance of experienced local leaders along the way, discover two remarkable countries that will leave you in awe.

At a glance

Duration
17 days
Route
Kasane → Windhoek
Countries
Botswana, Namibia
Activity level
easy
Style
National Parks & Wilderness, Wildlife & Safari
Group size
Max 12
Ages
15+
Flights
Not included
Solo travellers
Welcome

Day by day

A group of hippos in a tranquil wetland setting, with one yawning widely.
Your journey through

Botswana & Namibia

Day 1Chobe National ParkO Amogelesegile! Welcome to Botswana. Your adventure begins at Chobe National Park – one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations and home to its largest population of elephants in the world. When you arrive at the airport, you’ll be met by a Chobe Safari Lodge representative and transferred to your accommodation on the banks of the Chobe River, at the fringe of the park. Meet your local leader and fellow travellers at a welcome meeting at 6 pm. After, head out for dinner at the lodge. Enjoy a celebration of Indigenous food and the rich flavours of Africa as you dine alongside the scenic Chobe River.
An African elephant partially submerged in a water body in Botswana's lush wildlife habitat.Chobe National Park
O Amogelesegile! Welcome to Botswana. Your adventure begins at Chobe National Park – one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations and home to its largest population of elephants in the world. When you arrive at the airport, you’ll be met by a Chobe Safari Lodge representative and transferred to your accommodation on the banks of the Chobe River, at the fringe of the park. Meet your local leader and fellow travellers at a welcome meeting at 6 pm. After, head out for dinner at the lodge. Enjoy a celebration of Indigenous food and the rich flavours of Africa as you dine alongside the scenic Chobe River.
Map showing Chobe National Park
Day 2Zambezi RiverRise early for a morning game drive in Chobe National Park. You might see elephants drinking at the water's edge, large herds of cape buffalo and many impalas within the park. Head back to the lodge for breakfast, then journey to the Ngoma Border Post before continuing to the Namibian side of the Zambezi River. Tonight you’ll stay in your Feature Stay accommodation – the fabulous Zambezi Mubala Lodge. Newly built, the Zambezi Mubala is a secret river hideaway where you can find hippos, vervet monkeys and over 450 species of birds. Arrive in time for a hearty lunch at the lodge, then enjoy some downtime to relax by the pool, spot wildlife from the bar or soak up the wild surroundings on the banks of the Zambezi River.Speak to your leader about the optional seasonal activities for the afternoon, including a canoe trip, guided walking trail or a birding drive.
Beautiful river scene with mist, vibrant greenery, and clear blue sky.Zambezi River
Rise early for a morning game drive in Chobe National Park. You might see elephants drinking at the water's edge, large herds of cape buffalo and many impalas within the park. Head back to the lodge for breakfast, then journey to the Ngoma Border Post before continuing to the Namibian side of the Zambezi River. Tonight you’ll stay in your Feature Stay accommodation – the fabulous Zambezi Mubala Lodge. Newly built, the Zambezi Mubala is a secret river hideaway where you can find hippos, vervet monkeys and over 450 species of birds. Arrive in time for a hearty lunch at the lodge, then enjoy some downtime to relax by the pool, spot wildlife from the bar or soak up the wild surroundings on the banks of the Zambezi River.Speak to your leader about the optional seasonal activities for the afternoon, including a canoe trip, guided walking trail or a birding drive.
Map showing Zambezi River
Day 3Zambezi RiverToday, enjoy a restful morning at your Feature Stay. This afternoon, take a cruise down the Zambezi River. The privileged position of your camp allows you to access a part of the river that most visitors don’t get to see, which means you can view the abundant wildlife without the crowds – look out for large herds of elephants, buffalo and antelope. After, head back to the lodge for dinner and watch the sunset change the colours of the landscape.
Victoria Falls Bridge gracefully arcs over the lush Batoka Gorge in Zimbabwe, showcasing stunning natural beauty.Zambezi River
Today, enjoy a restful morning at your Feature Stay. This afternoon, take a cruise down the Zambezi River. The privileged position of your camp allows you to access a part of the river that most visitors don’t get to see, which means you can view the abundant wildlife without the crowds – look out for large herds of elephants, buffalo and antelope. After, head back to the lodge for dinner and watch the sunset change the colours of the landscape.
Map showing Zambezi River
Day 4Makgadikgadi PansHeading south, cross the Ngoma border back into Botswana and continue your journey to the vast salt flats and grassy plains of the Makgadikgadi Pans. Located in the north-east of Botswana, the Makgadikgadi Pans sit in the middle of a dry savanna and are all that remain of the former Lake Makgadikgadi. This afternoon, you’ll head out on a 4WD excursion. The immense, sprawling salt flat will unfold in front of you as you look out for birds and animals, some who are seasonal visitors and some who call the area home all year. Sit out on the pans and enjoy drinks and snacks as the sun sets, then return to the lodge for dinner.
High-resolution image of cracked, arid desert ground showcasing natural earth textures.Makgadikgadi Pans
Heading south, cross the Ngoma border back into Botswana and continue your journey to the vast salt flats and grassy plains of the Makgadikgadi Pans. Located in the north-east of Botswana, the Makgadikgadi Pans sit in the middle of a dry savanna and are all that remain of the former Lake Makgadikgadi. This afternoon, you’ll head out on a 4WD excursion. The immense, sprawling salt flat will unfold in front of you as you look out for birds and animals, some who are seasonal visitors and some who call the area home all year. Sit out on the pans and enjoy drinks and snacks as the sun sets, then return to the lodge for dinner.
Map showing Makgadikgadi Pans
Day 5MaunTravel to the edge of the Ntwetwe Salt Pans, home to a resident family of meerkats. With the aid of trackers, you'll observe their morning rituals – watch the meerkats bask in the morning sun before heading out to forage. When you’ve had your fill of watching these magnificent creatures, you’ll stop at a lodge for lunch, then continue to Maun – the gateway to the Okavango Delta, one of the world's most complex ecosystems.
Wild African elephants in Botswana's savannah, displaying natural behavior.Maun
Travel to the edge of the Ntwetwe Salt Pans, home to a resident family of meerkats. With the aid of trackers, you'll observe their morning rituals – watch the meerkats bask in the morning sun before heading out to forage. When you’ve had your fill of watching these magnificent creatures, you’ll stop at a lodge for lunch, then continue to Maun – the gateway to the Okavango Delta, one of the world's most complex ecosystems.
Map showing Maun
Day 6Maun (Okavango Delta)Today, you'll take a traditional mokoro (a dugout canoe steered by friendly local 'polers') for an Okavango waterways experience. With some luck, you might spot some of the delta's wildlife or exotic birdlife. Spend some time exploring the maze of lagoons, lakes and streams by mokoro before exploring on foot with a local guide. View plants, trees and animals from a different perspective and observe close-up details often missed on game drives. Your guide will provide expert knowledge and help you gain a deeper understanding of the environment. Lunch will be served on one of the many secluded islands created by the Delta waterways. On your return to Maun, enjoy a visit to the Shorobe Basket Co-Operative where artisans will take you through the journey of basket weaving and bring to life the skill involved in each creation.
A young giraffe calf stands gracefully in a lush savanna landscape, capturing the essence of wildlife photography.Maun (Okavango Delta)
Today, you'll take a traditional mokoro (a dugout canoe steered by friendly local 'polers') for an Okavango waterways experience. With some luck, you might spot some of the delta's wildlife or exotic birdlife. Spend some time exploring the maze of lagoons, lakes and streams by mokoro before exploring on foot with a local guide. View plants, trees and animals from a different perspective and observe close-up details often missed on game drives. Your guide will provide expert knowledge and help you gain a deeper understanding of the environment. Lunch will be served on one of the many secluded islands created by the Delta waterways. On your return to Maun, enjoy a visit to the Shorobe Basket Co-Operative where artisans will take you through the journey of basket weaving and bring to life the skill involved in each creation.
Map showing Maun (Okavango Delta)
Day 7WindhoekCheck out of your lodge this morning and transfer to the airport for an unaccompanied flight to Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, known for its German architecture and relaxed atmosphere. When you arrive, you'll be met by another transfer driver who will take you to your hotel. Perhaps head out for a stroll around town to admire the architecture of the Tintenpalast and Christuskirche buildings or stop by a local market to peruse handmade crafts.
A majestic oryx standing in the arid expanse of Namibia's Karas Region.Windhoek
Check out of your lodge this morning and transfer to the airport for an unaccompanied flight to Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, known for its German architecture and relaxed atmosphere. When you arrive, you'll be met by another transfer driver who will take you to your hotel. Perhaps head out for a stroll around town to admire the architecture of the Tintenpalast and Christuskirche buildings or stop by a local market to peruse handmade crafts.
Map showing Windhoek
Day 8WindhoekToday is free for you to explore Windhoek, or perhaps just relax and take it easy at your hotel. You'll meet your new group and leader for a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. After your meeting, get to know your new travel companions over dinner at a local restaurant.
Close-up shot of a gazelle with focus on its head behind a wire fence, captured in Namibia.Windhoek
Today is free for you to explore Windhoek, or perhaps just relax and take it easy at your hotel. You'll meet your new group and leader for a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. After your meeting, get to know your new travel companions over dinner at a local restaurant.
Map showing Windhoek
Day 9SesriemThis morning, drive south to Sesriem, your gateway to the Sossusvlei Dunes, Deadvlei, and Sesriem Canyon. Arrive at your Feature Stay accommodation for the next two nights, situated next to the Namib-Naukluft National Park. Take in the magnificent views, which can be enjoyed from your very own private patio. Enjoy lunch at the lodge’s restaurant, with the otherworldly landscape stretching far in each direction, then spend the afternoon relaxing by the bar or next to the sparkling pool. Later on, head out on a guided four-wheel drive (4x4) nature drive to discover the unique flora and fauna of the desert. Stop for a drink to take it all in as the sun sets, then return to the lodge for dinner and relax on the terrace overlooking the floodlit waterhole.
Explore the breathtaking barren landscape of Sesriem in Namibia, featuring striking dunes and arid terrain.Sesriem
This morning, drive south to Sesriem, your gateway to the Sossusvlei Dunes, Deadvlei, and Sesriem Canyon. Arrive at your Feature Stay accommodation for the next two nights, situated next to the Namib-Naukluft National Park. Take in the magnificent views, which can be enjoyed from your very own private patio. Enjoy lunch at the lodge’s restaurant, with the otherworldly landscape stretching far in each direction, then spend the afternoon relaxing by the bar or next to the sparkling pool. Later on, head out on a guided four-wheel drive (4x4) nature drive to discover the unique flora and fauna of the desert. Stop for a drink to take it all in as the sun sets, then return to the lodge for dinner and relax on the terrace overlooking the floodlit waterhole.
Map showing Sesriem
Day 10SesriemMake an early-morning visit to Sossusvlei, which lies at the end of an ancient riverbed. This is a great opportunity for unsurpassed views of the surrounding area. Climbing to the top of Dune 45 will reward you with a spectacular perspective of the surreal desert landscape. After breakfast, travel to Deadvlei, a clay pan that lends itself to many iconic images. When you see the skeleton trees against a vibrant orange backdrop of dunes, you’ll soon understand what all the fuss is about. The pan is surrounded by some of the highest dunes in the world, 'Big Daddy' or 'Crazy Dune' average about 350 metres in height. In the afternoon you will visit Sesriem Gorge, a tranquil natural corridor that you can walk through and explore. Return to the lodge for the evening.
Two giraffes standing in the savannah at Sesriem, Namibia, with mountains in the background.Sesriem
Make an early-morning visit to Sossusvlei, which lies at the end of an ancient riverbed. This is a great opportunity for unsurpassed views of the surrounding area. Climbing to the top of Dune 45 will reward you with a spectacular perspective of the surreal desert landscape. After breakfast, travel to Deadvlei, a clay pan that lends itself to many iconic images. When you see the skeleton trees against a vibrant orange backdrop of dunes, you’ll soon understand what all the fuss is about. The pan is surrounded by some of the highest dunes in the world, 'Big Daddy' or 'Crazy Dune' average about 350 metres in height. In the afternoon you will visit Sesriem Gorge, a tranquil natural corridor that you can walk through and explore. Return to the lodge for the evening.
Map showing Sesriem
Day 11SwakopmundContinue your journey to the beachside town of Swakopmund.Stop by the small settlement of Solitaire. Scattered with abandoned trucks, cars, petrol pumps and cacti, it's the only place between Walvis Bay and Sossusvlei to feature a petrol station, post office, general store, and bakery. Enjoy a piece of the local apple pie which has earned itself quite a reputation. Continue on past moon valley, named for its eerie lunar-like appearance, and the Tropic of Capricorn. Walvis Bay is the hibernation area for thousands of migratory birds, most notably flamingos. If in season you may take quick detour to see these elegant birds. Upon arrival at Swakopmund take some time for lunch, then join your leader on an orientation walk to get a feel for this interesting township with a German-Namibian atmosphere.
Peaceful view of Swakopmund beach and pier in Namibia, with waves crashing against the shore.Swakopmund
Continue your journey to the beachside town of Swakopmund.Stop by the small settlement of Solitaire. Scattered with abandoned trucks, cars, petrol pumps and cacti, it's the only place between Walvis Bay and Sossusvlei to feature a petrol station, post office, general store, and bakery. Enjoy a piece of the local apple pie which has earned itself quite a reputation. Continue on past moon valley, named for its eerie lunar-like appearance, and the Tropic of Capricorn. Walvis Bay is the hibernation area for thousands of migratory birds, most notably flamingos. If in season you may take quick detour to see these elegant birds. Upon arrival at Swakopmund take some time for lunch, then join your leader on an orientation walk to get a feel for this interesting township with a German-Namibian atmosphere.
Map showing Swakopmund
Day 12SwakopmundThe day is yours to enjoy this gorgeous coastal town. Your accommodation conveniently located within walking distance of the town, where you can enjoy a walk on the beach, open air markets or the local museum. You may wish to take an optional trip north to Cape Cross, a breeding site for Cape fur seals. There can be in excess of 100,000 seals there at any given time, making for quite the spectacle (quite a smell too, if the wind happens to change direction). Wander the coastline and attempt to document these beautiful creatures with a photo or two, and visit the large cross that lies nearby, left by Diego Cao, the first European to arrive on Namibian soil in 1485.
Explore the serene coastline of Swakopmund, Namibia with its iconic pier and rugged shoreline.Swakopmund
The day is yours to enjoy this gorgeous coastal town. Your accommodation conveniently located within walking distance of the town, where you can enjoy a walk on the beach, open air markets or the local museum. You may wish to take an optional trip north to Cape Cross, a breeding site for Cape fur seals. There can be in excess of 100,000 seals there at any given time, making for quite the spectacle (quite a smell too, if the wind happens to change direction). Wander the coastline and attempt to document these beautiful creatures with a photo or two, and visit the large cross that lies nearby, left by Diego Cao, the first European to arrive on Namibian soil in 1485.
Map showing Swakopmund
Day 13DamaralandLeave the Atlantic Ocean coastline behind and drive towards the Namib Desert.Take in the beautiful, diverse and colourful landscapes that stream past along the way: mountains, sand dunes, ocean waves and shipwrecks. Continue to Damaraland. Home to Namibia's highest peak, ancient rock paintings and petrified forests, the harshly beautiful and sparsely populated Damaraland region is a land of extraordinary contrasts. Depending on the time of year, you might be lucky enough to see the desert elephants that roam the area. Your accommodation features a centrepiece swimming pool fringed by beautiful chalets, each with a private garden. The evening is yours to relax and enjoy the amenities as the sun goes down.
4x4 vehicle exploring the iconic Spitzkoppe mountain, Namibia at sunset, showcasing adventure travel.Damaraland
Leave the Atlantic Ocean coastline behind and drive towards the Namib Desert.Take in the beautiful, diverse and colourful landscapes that stream past along the way: mountains, sand dunes, ocean waves and shipwrecks. Continue to Damaraland. Home to Namibia's highest peak, ancient rock paintings and petrified forests, the harshly beautiful and sparsely populated Damaraland region is a land of extraordinary contrasts. Depending on the time of year, you might be lucky enough to see the desert elephants that roam the area. Your accommodation features a centrepiece swimming pool fringed by beautiful chalets, each with a private garden. The evening is yours to relax and enjoy the amenities as the sun goes down.
Map showing Damaraland
Day 14DamaralandSpend the morning visiting the Twyfelfontein Heritage Site and the Petrified Forest with expert local guides to provide insight on these wonders. Twyfelfontein has one of the largest concentrations of ancient rock engraving in southern Africa and is a fascinating insight into the past. The Petrified Forest looks back into nature’s history, where 280-million-year-old fossilised tree trunks lie. Continue on to the Living Museum of the Damara, which aims to reconstruct and preserve the 'lost culture’ of the Damara people. Your leader will tell you all about this fascinating traditional culture that is, along with the Bushmen, the oldest in Namibia. Return to the lodge in the afternoon, with the rest of the day free to relax by the pool with a book.
Capture of Namibian desert landscape from a jeep, showcasing rugged red rock formations.Damaraland
Spend the morning visiting the Twyfelfontein Heritage Site and the Petrified Forest with expert local guides to provide insight on these wonders. Twyfelfontein has one of the largest concentrations of ancient rock engraving in southern Africa and is a fascinating insight into the past. The Petrified Forest looks back into nature’s history, where 280-million-year-old fossilised tree trunks lie. Continue on to the Living Museum of the Damara, which aims to reconstruct and preserve the 'lost culture’ of the Damara people. Your leader will tell you all about this fascinating traditional culture that is, along with the Bushmen, the oldest in Namibia. Return to the lodge in the afternoon, with the rest of the day free to relax by the pool with a book.
Map showing Damaraland
Day 15Etosha National ParkLeave Damaraland behind and head towards Etosha National Park. On arrival, the afternoon will be free to relax at your lodge. Maybe cool off in the pool, read a book, or enjoy a sundowner by the bar. Be sure to charge your camera tonight as tomorrow will be a full day in the park. This is one of the world's premier game-viewing destinations; spotting animals in the park is relatively easy due to the man-made waterholes and the large, sparsely vegetated pans. The bushland surrounding the pans is difficult to see through, but there are enough clearings, pans and waterholes to allow for sightings. Namibia has protected its game reserves against poaching, so there are large herds of elephants, antelope and other herbivores.
Two zebras nuzzling amidst a herd at Etosha National Park, Namibia.Etosha National Park
Leave Damaraland behind and head towards Etosha National Park. On arrival, the afternoon will be free to relax at your lodge. Maybe cool off in the pool, read a book, or enjoy a sundowner by the bar. Be sure to charge your camera tonight as tomorrow will be a full day in the park. This is one of the world's premier game-viewing destinations; spotting animals in the park is relatively easy due to the man-made waterholes and the large, sparsely vegetated pans. The bushland surrounding the pans is difficult to see through, but there are enough clearings, pans and waterholes to allow for sightings. Namibia has protected its game reserves against poaching, so there are large herds of elephants, antelope and other herbivores.
Map showing Etosha National Park
Day 16Etosha National ParkRise early for a full-day 4WD safari in Etosha National Park. Keep a close eye on the landscape for black rhino, Hartmann's mountain zebra, black-faced impala, roan antelope and the tiny Damara dik-dik. The park is also home to some 340 bird species. After, return to your lodge and reflect on the day's adventures as you take in the views from the outdoor pool, viewing deck, or spacious veranda overlooking the mopane woodlands.
A serene landscape with a giraffe walking in Etosha National Park, Namibia.Etosha National Park
Rise early for a full-day 4WD safari in Etosha National Park. Keep a close eye on the landscape for black rhino, Hartmann's mountain zebra, black-faced impala, roan antelope and the tiny Damara dik-dik. The park is also home to some 340 bird species. After, return to your lodge and reflect on the day's adventures as you take in the views from the outdoor pool, viewing deck, or spacious veranda overlooking the mopane woodlands.
Map showing Etosha National Park
Day 17WindhoekThis morning after breakfast you will make your way back to Windhoek. Your adventure comes to an end on arrival. You will be in Windhoek by 1pm so please book any flights today accordingly, and not before late afternoon at the earliest. If you would like to extend your stay, additional accommodation can be booked in advance (subject to availability).
A majestic oryx standing in the arid expanse of Namibia's Karas Region.Windhoek
This morning after breakfast you will make your way back to Windhoek. Your adventure comes to an end on arrival. You will be in Windhoek by 1pm so please book any flights today accordingly, and not before late afternoon at the earliest. If you would like to extend your stay, additional accommodation can be booked in advance (subject to availability).
Map showing Windhoek

Traveller reviews

5.0

Based on 2 reviews · via Intrepid Travel

Discover Botswana

A glimpse of the destination you'll explore.

Captivating sunset over a tranquil waterside in Nunga, Botswana, with silhouetted trees.
Stunning sunset over the wetlands in Maun, Botswana, highlighting a dramatic orange sky.
Captivating sunset over acacia silhouettes in Botswana wilderness.
Silhouette of an elephant by a riverbank during a vibrant orange sunset in the African wilderness.
A yawning hippopotamus in a serene water scene at sunset in Botswana.

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20 Jun 20266 Jul 2026CAD 17,290Sold outBook my trip
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