Delta & Falls Discoverer
Delta & Falls Discoverer
Delta & Falls Discoverer
8 Days Starting in Victoria Falls and ending in Windhoek
Visiting: Victoria Falls, Kasane, Nata, Maun, Ghanzi, Windhoek
Tour operator:
Tour code:
22744
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 18
Age range:
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Tour Overview
Journey from Zimbabwe and Botswana and into Namibia on an incredible African adventure that includes the elephants of Chobe National Park and the mist of the thundering Victoria Falls. Meet San Bushmen in the blazing Kalahari and explore the Okavango Delta by traditional mokoro canoe. With a knowledgeable CEO at the helm and experiences that reflect local customs and traditions, including overnight stays in community lodges and tents, this tour is the trip of a lifetime.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Victoria Falls
Location: Victoria Falls
Accommodation: Explorers Village Lodge
Accommodation Name: Explorers Village Lodge
Arrive at any time.
There are no planned activities until an evening welcome meeting.
Additional Information: Your accommodation is in Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) and NOT Livingstone (Zambia). Please make sure you have the necessary visa.
ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Day 2: Victoria Falls/Kasane
Location: Victoria Falls
Accommodation: Thebe River Safaris Lodge
Accommodation Name: Thebe River Safaris Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cross the border into Botswana, and stay in Kasane, just outside of Chobe NP. Try to spot the elephants, crocodiles, and hippos this region is famous for during an optional sundowner cruise.
Drive to the border and cross from Zimbabwe into Botswana. Continue to the Kasane area, outside the gates of Chobe National Park, home to the largest elephant population in Southern Africa.
Opt to check out one of Botswana's national parks and its thousands of resident elephants, crocodiles, and hippos on a sunset boat cruise on the Chobe River.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Cross the border from Zimbabwe into Botswana.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 3: Kasane/Nata
Location: Kasane
Accommodation: Elephant Sands
Accommodation Name: Elephant Sands
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Opt to rise early for sunrise and marvel at your surroundings as you set out on a safari drive in Chobe National Park. Travel to Nata and watch for elephants drinking from the camp's watering hole at night.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 4: Nata/Maun
Location: Nata
Accommodation: Sedia Riverside Hotel
Accommodation Name: Sedia Riverside Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Prepare for a 1-night/2-day journey into the delta.
Travel to Maun, the biggest town in the Okavango Delta area, pick up any supplies needed, and prepare for the journey into the Okavango Delta.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 5: Okavango Delta
Location: Maun
Accommodation: Okavango Delta Camping
Accommodation Name: Okavango Delta Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy wildlife walks, traditional mokoro excursions, and birding. Learn the ways of the bush from the local polers.
The excursion begins with a drive in customized safari vehicles for about 1-2 hrs to the "dock" to board a mokoro (canoe) that takes us deep into the delta. After a 1-2 hrs in the mokoro, arrive to the basic bush camp.
In the evening, watch a traditional dance performance.
Additional Information: Please note that you will need to bring your own sleeping bag.
TRANSPORT: Roads? Where this rough-and-ready vehicle's going, we don't need roads.
TRANSPORT: Climb into a traditional canoe for a closer view of the shoreline.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy wildlife walks and viewing, mokoro trips, and birdwatching in the pristine wilderness area of the Okavango Delta, the world's largest inland delta. In the evening, count the shooting stars, sing with the locals, or simply unwind with a sundowner (cheers!) around the campfire.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a captivating performance by the Polers in the Okavango Delta. They will sing traditional songs in the Tswana language, providing a glimpse into local culture. Each performance is unique, as different groups of Polers bring their own songs and style. It’s a relaxed, authentic experience that adds a special touch to your evening in the Delta
Day 6: Maun/Ghanzi
Location: Maun
Accommodation: Thakadu Bush Lodge
Accommodation Name: Thakadu Bush Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Hop into a mokoro with your friends on the way back to Maun. Search for wildlife in the reeds along the river as you make your way back towards civilization. Zoom through the western part of Botswana to Ghanzi; the heart of the Kalahari. Catch a glimpse of how the Indigenous San Bushmen adapted to the Kalahari Desert on a bushman walk. They will teach you about wilderness survival skills in a place that seems uninhabitable.
Enjoy the sunrise in the delta before travelling back to Maun by mokoro. Travel along the northern portions of the Kalahari Desert throughout the day – this is a severely arid and barren landscape, though very beautiful.
Arrive in the late afternoon and camp in the Ghanzi area.
TRANSPORT: Climb into a traditional canoe for a closer view of the shoreline.
TRANSPORT: Roads? Where this rough-and-ready vehicle's going, we don't need roads.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Get a glimpse of how the San tribe adapted to the Kalahari Desert and learn about their fascinating wilderness survival skills. The gatherer life of the San/Bushmen has all but disappeared; there are few remaining who retain the survival skills of their ancient way of life.
During the walk, San/Bushmen guides will share their knowledge on mastering this harsh environment, helping us learn about the botany of our surroundings.
Day 7: D'kar/Windhoek
Location: Ghanzi
Accommodation: Auas City Hotel
Accommodation Name: Auas City Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel to Windhoek, the fascinating capital city of Namibia.
Depart from the heart of the Kalahari and head through the eastern part of Namibia.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.
Day 8: Windhoek
Location: Windhoek
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart at any time.
What's Included
-
Accommodation
Hotels (3 nts), lodge/chalet (3 nts), basic camping (1 nt). -
Meals
7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners -
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
-
Okavango Delta overnight bush camping excursion
-
San/Bushmen walk
-
Traditional meal
-
All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
What's Not Included
-
Tipping and Gratuities
-
International Travel
Meals Included
7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners
Accommodation
Hotels (3 nts), lodge/chalet (3 nts), basic camping (1 nt).
Transport
Air-conditioned touring vehicle, safari vehicle, walking, mokoros.
Group Size
Max 18, Avg 14
Solo Travellers
We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Meals
Eating is a big part of travelling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available in southern Africa. On this tour, we provide only a few meals for you and your group members, so as to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility in you choices. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though - while in the larger centres, your group leader will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip.
Your tour leader prepare the meals included in the Okavango Delta, arranging to purchase the foodstuffs before our bush camping excursion begins. Breakfasts will generally be cereals, if time allows a warm breakfast may be prepared. Lunches will be light meals such as sandwiches and/or salads. All evening meals will be freshly-prepared hot meals, and will consist of a variety of continental and local dishes.
For the included meals, vegetarian meal requests and other dietary requirements need to be specified prior to arrival.
Mode of Transport
Air-conditioned touring vehicle, safari vehicle, walking, mokoros.
Check out our Q&As
-
What's Included
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group. Okavango Delta overnight bush camping excursion. San/Bushmen walk. Traditional meal. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
-
Highlights
Cruise the Chobe River, explore wilderness on wildlife walks, bush camp and take in traditional canoe rides in the Okavango Delta, marvel at the Kalahari Desert.
-
Dossier Disclaimer
The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.
VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans. -
Itinerary Disclaimer
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances. -
Important Notes
1. TRANSPORTATION
This is not a physically demanding journey; however, travelling can be difficult, with long drives and poor road conditions at times. Despite this, most clients feel that the diversity of the African landscape, countries, culture and wildlife are all well worth the experience. We use a comfortable and safe air-conditioned touring vehicle for the long drives.
2. COMBO TRIP
Please note that this tour combines with other G Adventures tours. As such, the staff and some travel companions on your tour may have previously been traveling together with G Adventures, prior to Day 1 of your tour. Likewise, some staff and travel companions may be continuing together on another G Adventures tour, after your trip concludes.
3. YELLOW FEVER
According to the WHO and CDC, there is no risk of yellow fever in Botswana. It is compulsory to show a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate if you are travelling to Botswana from a Yellow Fever endemic country, or have recently travelled to a Yellow Fever endemic country (with entry stamps in your passport), including the following countries (but not limited to): Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Cote d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea Zambia, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, São Tomé and Príncipe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela.
**We advise all travelers to Botswana who are coming from one of the above countries, or who have visited them in the last 10 years, to be prepared with a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate or letter from your doctor with proof of vaccination. Yellow Fever inoculations need to be administered at least 10 days prior to your entry into the country. Border officials in Botswana have been strictly enforcing these requirements. Travelers without the correct documentation run the risk of being denied entry, and will not be able to continue with the tour. (Any additional travel expenses will be on your own account.) **
4. MONEY EXCHANGE
We strongly advise that you bring ZAR or USD from your home country or exchange money before the start of the tour, to avoid delays on tour. Please see the Money Exchange section for more details.
5. DRONES
The use of drones in national parks in Southern Africa is prohibited.
6. ACCOMMODATION NOTE:
Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.
-
Group Leader Description
On this tour, you will be accompanied by a G Adventures Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and an expert driver. All of our leaders in southern Africa are registered and licensed tourism guides, meaning that they have studied to have a broad knowledge base of the region’s history, cultures, and wildlife, and are legally certified to lead/guide tours in the regions visited. Most of our leaders in the region are from South Africa, though it may be possible that you’ll have a leader from another country in the southern African region.
As the group manager and leader, the aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places where we are travelling, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues, introduce you to our local friends, and will even prepare the included meals while camping in the Okavango Delta. He/she will take care of the small things so you can concentrate on enjoying your adventure. In addition, as an integral part of the team, your driver is skilled and experienced driver who has intimate knowledge of the vehicle and routes travelled.
We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting. -
Group Size Notes
Max 18, Avg 14
-
Meals Included
7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners
-
Meals
Eating is a big part of travelling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available in southern Africa. On this tour, we provide only a few meals for you and your group members, so as to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility in you choices. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though - while in the larger centres, your group leader will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip.
Your tour leader prepare the meals included in the Okavango Delta, arranging to purchase the foodstuffs before our bush camping excursion begins. Breakfasts will generally be cereals, if time allows a warm breakfast may be prepared. Lunches will be light meals such as sandwiches and/or salads. All evening meals will be freshly-prepared hot meals, and will consist of a variety of continental and local dishes.
For the included meals, vegetarian meal requests and other dietary requirements need to be specified prior to arrival. -
Transport
Air-conditioned touring vehicle, safari vehicle, walking, mokoros.
-
About our Transportation
For all of our standard class trips in southern Africa, including this tour, we use a private local bus for the journey. With air conditioning, and sliding windows, this style of transportation is a comfortable way to travel through the region. In addition, even with a full group of 18 travellers, there will be extra space for the benefit of the group. Having our own private vehicle throughout the tour allows us the flexibility of making stops when needed. In addition, we are able to travel to out-of-the-way locations where public transportation does not reach.
Road conditions in the region can range from good to very poor. As such, we slow our traveling speed in the rough spots and enjoy some sand and bumps en route – something which is of course part of the adventure of traveling in Africa!
In the Okavango Delta, we leave our bus behind and explore in the area in mokoros – traditional dug-out canoes. The mokoros usually seat 2 people and are handled by ‘polers’ – so named as they move the mokoro forward by using a very long pole pushed into the ground under the water. This is a relaxing and peaceful way to take in the fascinating environment and wonderful scenery of the delta. -
Solo Travellers
We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
-
Accommodation
Hotels (3 nts), lodge/chalet (3 nts), basic camping (1 nt).
-
Rooming and "My Own Room" Exceptions
Day 5 and 6.
-
About Accommodation
Hotel
3 nights in comfortable twin rooms with en suite or shared facilities.
Lodge
2 night in standard rooms with en-suite facilities.
Chalets/Bungalow
1 night spent in Chalets/Bungalow. Rooms are Twin with en suite or shared facilities.
Basic Camping (participative, please bring your sleeping bag and towel)
1 night are spent in pitched tents in the Delta with very basic facilities. Tents are twin share. -
Joining Instructions
For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.
If you would like to book an airport Arrival transfer for your tour, please contact our Sales Team or your Travel Agent in advance of travel.
If you have paid in advance for an arrival transfer, a G Adventures representative will be at the airport to meet you. If for any reason you are not met at the airport, please call our local support line. If you are unable to make contact for whatever reason, please make your way to the joining point hotel via taxi.
Please note that the arrival transfer will pick you up from the international airport in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe (VFA). There is a domestic airport located in Zambia (airport code LVI) that serves the Livingstone area, but there is an additional cost for this service. We highly recommend you double check your arrival details into Victoria Falls and make sure you are flying into the correct airport.
Please note that day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned on this day.
Upon arrival to your Joining Hotel (note that check-in time will be in the afternoon), look for a note or bulletin board in the reception with a note from your CEO. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on day 1 (usually between 5pm and 7pm), where you will get a chance to meet your CEO and other travellers, as well as learn more about how the tour will run. If you don’t see a note, please ask reception for details!
If you are arriving later and will miss the Welcome Meeting, your CEO will leave a note at reception for you with any information you may need, and with morning instructions for the next day. -
Arrival Complications
We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your trip leader (if you are not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.
-
Emergency Contact
Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the G Adventures Local Representative (if one is listed below) or our G Adventures Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.
AIRPORT TRANSFER
If you have purchased an arrival through G Adventures or if an arrival transfer is included in the cost of your tour, please note that:
Your arrival transfer has been arranged based on flight information provided to us. If you are advised of a flight schedule change or flight cancellation within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, please call the emergency contact number to advise of your new arrival flight information. If you do not, we will not be able to rearrange your arrival transfer and you will need to make your own way to the starting hotel at your own expense. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area please take a taxi to your start point hotel.
EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS
G Adventures Local Representative (South Africa)
From outside South Africa: +27 713823286
From within South Africa: 071 3823286
If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please call the numbers listed below which will connect you directly with our Sales team who will happily assist you. Hours of operation by region can be found here.
Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100
Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000
Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000
Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618
Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307
Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999 -
Finishing Point Instructions
If you would like to book an airport Departure transfer for your tour, please contact our Sales Team or your Travel Agent in advance of travel.
-
What to Take
You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible. Your baggage should be clearly labeled and restricted to one soft compact suitcase, or sports bag, maximum 15kg, plus a daypack. Luggage limits on airlines are strictly enforced and space on vehicles is limited. Porters are not available, so be prepared to carry your own bags. It is important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings, as well as a warm jacket for early morning wildlife safari drives. During the winter months (May to October), the temperatures can get quite cold in Botswana. It is wise to bring plenty of layers for cool mornings and evenings. A set of smart casual clothes is also advisable.
Please be advised that if you plan to bring a drone with you, the use of drones in national parks in Southern Africa is prohibited. -
Packing List
Additional Items:
• Sleeping bag (required)
Cold Weather:
• Long-sleeved shirts or sweater
• Scarf
• Warm gloves
• Warm hat
• Warm layers
• Warm waterproof jacket
Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
• Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)
Essentials:
• Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket
Health & Safety:
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sturdy water shoes/sandals
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear
Note: Seasons in Southern Africa are quite extreme. Winters can be really cold and summers will be really hot. If you travel during winter months (May to October) please ensure that you bring warm clothing. Note that, camping equipment and a mattress are provided. -
Laundry
Please note that you will be on the move a lot, and as such there will not be a lot of time for same-day laundry service. Please ask your guide/tour leader to arrange if any laundry needs to be done, so that he / she can advise or make arrangements for you.
-
Visas and Entry Requirements
All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. It is your own responsibility to have the correct travel documentation. Visa requirements for your trip will vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as far as possible, but rules do change and sometimes without warning. While we provide the following information in good faith, it is vital that you check the information yourself and understand that you are fully responsible for your own visa requirements.
Visa information specific to your destination and nationality can be found in our Important Pre-Departure Information page here
Botswana:
Botswana as a $30 USD tourism levy for visitors entering the country, except for residents and citizens of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) member states. This entry tax is payable at all points of entry into Botswana and will be valid for 30 days and includes multiple entry.
Namibia:
As of April 1st 2025, Namibia will be introducing a new mandatory 90-day visa, costing USD90 per person on arrival into Namibia.
Please ensure you check the Important Pre-Departure Information page link above to see if your nationality is affected.
Information is accurate as of March 1st, 2024. -
Detailed Trip Notes
Namibia:
Full country name: Republic of Namibia
Area: 824,292 sq km (318,259 sq mi)
Population: 2,032,000 (July 2005 est) 1.820,916 (Census 2002)
Capital city: Windhoek (pop 161,000)
People: 86% African (50% Owambo, 9% Kavango, 7% Herero, 7% Damara, 5% Nama, 4% Caprivian, 3% San, 2% Baster, 0.5% Tswana), 7.4% mixed, 6.6% white Languages: English, Afrikaans, German, Oshivambo, Herero, Nama
Religion: Christian, Lutheran, native religions
Government: Republic
President: Hifikepunye Pohamba
Major industries: Meat packing, fish processing, dairy products, mining (diamond, lead, zinc, tin, silver, tungsten, uranium, copper), millet, sorghum, peanuts, livestock, fish, tourism.
Major trading partners: UK, South Africa, Spain, Japan, Germany, USA
Botswana:
Full country name: Republic of Botswana
Area: 600,370 sq km (231,800 sq mi)
Population: 1.6 million Capital city: Gaborone (pop 192,000)
People: Botswana 60%, Bakalanga, Basarwa, Bakgalagadi
Languages: English, Setswana
Religions: indigenous beliefs 50%, Christian 50%
Government: parliamentary republic
President: Seretse Ian Khama
Major industries: diamonds, copper, nickel, coal, salt, soda ash, potash, livestock processing, sorghum, maize, millet, pulses, groundnuts (peanuts), beans, cowpeas, sunflower seed, livestock
Major trading partners: EU, Southern African Customs Union (SACU), Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe:
Full country name: Republic of Zimbabwe (and formerly Southern Rhodesia, Rhodesia, the Republic of Rhodesia, and Zimbabwe Rhodesia)
Area: 390,757 km²
Population: 16 111 699
Capital cities: Harare
People: The country is made up of Bantu-speaking ethic groups, with the majority of the population comprised of the Shona and Ndebele groups.
Languages: Zimbabwe has three official languages: English, Shona (the Bantu language with the most native speakers), and Ndebele (also a Bantu language). In total Zimbabwe as 16 officially recognized languages.
Religion: The majority of Zimbabweans are Christian.
Major industries: Mineral, gold and agricultural products make up the majority of Zimbabwe’s exports.
Currency: The Zimbabwean Dollar
Officially the Republic of Zimbabwe and formerly Southern Rhodesia, Rhodesia, the Republic of Rhodesia, and Zimbabwe Rhodesia) is a landlocked country located in the southern part of the African continent, between the Zambezi and Limpopo rivers. It is bordered by South Africa to the south, Botswana to the southwest, Zambia to the northwest and Mozambique to the east. Zimbabwe began as the British crown colony of Southern Rhodesia, created from land held by the British South Africa Company. President Robert Mugabe is the head of State and Commander in Chief of the armed forces. Morgan Tsvangirai is the Prime Minister. Mugabe has been in power since the country's internationally-recognized independence in 1980. -
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
-
Money Exchange
The Namibian currency is the Namibian Dollar (NAD), which is equivalent to the South African Rand.
In Botswana, you pay with Pula (BWP).
Zimbabwe uses the US Dollar and South African Rand.
Each currency can be obtained locally by changing foreign currency or by using ATMs (where available) which will disperse local currency. Your CEO will inform you where you can change money throughout the tour and approximately how much money you will need.
For Zimbabwe, we strongly advise that you bring ZAR or USD from your home country or exchange money before the start of the tour, to avoid delays on tour, as it can be difficult to obtain cash at ATMs.
Please note that due to past problems with forgery, $US notes that are older than year 2006 are not accepted in Africa.
Large note ($US 50, $US 100 etc) can be difficult to change in some places, but will gain you the best exchange rate.
If you plan to buy your visas at borders, you will need to bring $USD cash to pay for these visas. Please note you cannot use the local currency or any other currency to buy these visas- they must be purchased in USD.
Please do not bring Travellers’ cheques to Africa. They are difficult if not impossible to exchange in many places.
Visa/Plus system cards are the most widely accepted debit cards. it is harder to find machines Mastercard/Cirrus cards. We highly recommend that if you hold a Mastercard, you obtain a Visa card prior to departure and travel with both. This is also useful should something unforeseen happen to one of your cards during your travels.
While there are many ATMs in the major centres, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Africa. Check with your bank.
Credit cards can be used in major cities and towns ONLY but please do not rely on them as a method of payment because they are generally not widely accepted. You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies. The majority of our optional activities can also be paid by credit card. Your CEO will advise on these.
Please note that in many areas there may be occasional power-outages, where there will be no electricity for hours at a time. In addition, ATMs outside of larger centers often run out of cash or can be out of order unexpectedly. These factors could affect your ability to access money from ATMs. As such, please do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money.
A combination of foreign currency and debit/credit cards for cash advances is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.
As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com. -
Emergency Fund
Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
-
Departure Tax
USD20, may be included in the international air ticket.
-
Tipping
Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of your tour program. The gesture serves as an expression of appreciation for exceptional service, and amounts given are up to your discretion.
Tipping is one of the most direct ways that you can have a positive economic impact within the African community. Although it may not be customary for you, it is an important source of income for those in the tourism industry. Giving a tip should be a seen as a formal 'thank you', and the action should in no way be awkward.
The best method of tipping someone that has served the whole group is to plan in advance, and not rush when it comes to saying goodbye. A suggestion would be for each group member to contribute anonymously by putting their tip into an envelope. This often works the best and the group should gather to present the gift to the recipient(s), offering their thanks and showing their appreciation. This method brings the action out into the open, allowing for a friendly and appreciative interaction between the group and the recipient(s).
You may use the following as a guideline, all given in a per person format:
CEO: $5-8 USD (per day, per person)
Local guides: $2-3 USD (per day)
Safari Guide/Driver: $2-3 USD (per day)
Restaurant Staff: 10-15% of cost of bill
Okavango Delta polers: 50-100 BWP (Botswana Pula) -
Optional Activities
Chobe National Park
- Chobe River Sunset Cruise
- Chobe National Park Safari Drive
Ghanzi
- Traditional San People Dancing (2000BWP per group) -
Health
We recommend you contact your family physician, or your local travel clinic for the most up-to-date health information at least one month before departure. Travellers should also carry a basic first-aid kit and hand sanitizers/antibacterial wipes on their travels. Medical facilities are basic throughout these countries. For your own safety, we strongly recommend that you advise your tour leader of any medical condition that may affect you while travelling with the group. Your tour leader will be able to inform you of local health advisories (e.g. drinking water quality). Please ensure you have all the inoculations recommended by your doctor.
Yellow Fever Certificate Note: (Updated: May 2023)
It is compulsory to show a valid Yellow Fever Certificate if you are travelling to the following G Adventures-visited countries from a Yellow Fever endemic country:
- Botswana
- Ethiopia
- Kenya
- Madagascar
- Malawi
- Mozambique
- Rwanda
- South Africa
- Swaziland
- Uganda
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
For some of these countries, proof of Yellow Fever vaccination is also required for passengers who have travelled more than 12 hours through the airport of an endemic country. If other countries not endemic to Yellow Fever have been visited after visiting an endemic country, then a Yellow Fever certificate may still be required on entry. Please check country-specific regulations before your departure.
Malaria
Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease that is present in some regions in Africa. Risk of malaria can increase during periods of heavy rain, during the rainy seasons, and in densely populated areas of Southern & East Africa. To prevent malaria, we recommend speaking to your doctor about taking preventative medication (prophylaxis), combined with regular use of insect repellent spray/cream. Please check updated travel health advisories specific to malaria before your departure. -
Safety and Security
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your CEO has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your CEO will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your CEO will assist you with options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.
Protests and Demonstrations- Protests and demonstrations, even those that are well intended, have the potential to turn violent with no warning. Counter protests can also turn violent. Action by security forces to disperse demonstrators and protesters may occur at any time. If you are in an area where demonstrators or protesters are gathering, avoid the temptation of staying for a good photo opportunity and leave the area immediately.
Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards) have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s).
Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk.
We take all prudent measures in relation to your safety. For ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling, please visit:
www.gadventures.com/travel-resources/safety/ -
Trip Specific Safety
GENERAL: Look after your personal items. Do not leave your valuables visible in a car or hotel room. Lock your hotel room door when you enter and when you leave. Do not carry large amount of cash on you. Avoid displaying flashy jewellery and carry your camera in its pack on your shoulder rather than around your neck. Keep your passport, airline tickets, money, important documents locked up in your room/safe - do not carry it with you.
Please note that the use of drones in national parks in Southern Africa is prohibited. -
A Couple of Rules
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.
-
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
-
Planeterra Foundation - the non-profit partner of G Adventures
Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. Planeterra connects underserved local communities to the benefits of tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. These businesses support Indigenous people, empower women, grant youth access to employment opportunities, and protect the environment. Planeterra also works to ensure these businesses have a thriving customer base by integrating their projects into G Adventures’ itineraries globally.
G Adventures is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need.
G Adventures Dollar-a-day Program - Make Every Day Count - Turn your travel into impact with Planeterra Foundation.
Did you know? Most communities around the world do not benefit from tourism. Give back to the places you visit on your travels by creating opportunities for local people to earn an income, and protect the environment.
Make every day count by donating $1/day for the length of your trip, and join us in empowering the communities you will visit when you travel. 100% of your donation goes directly to Planeterra projects. -
Feedback
After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at customersolutions@gadventures.com and we will send it on to you.
-
Newsletter
Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from G Adventures, subscribe at www.gadventures.com
ewsletters/
Stay current on how our company invests in our global community through our foundation – Planeterra. Sign up for Planeterra's monthly news to learn more about how to give back and support the people and places we love to visit. -
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
-
International Flights
Check-in times and baggage allowances
estrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport. -
Group Leader
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) and driver throughout, local guides.
-
Max Pax
18
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
-
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
-
Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
-
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
Reviews of this operator
Save on this tour
Request your exclusive discount code now and unlock savings for your next adventure!
Send me one now.1 Select your preferred date
2024 Dec
2024 Jan
2025 Feb
2025 Mar
2025 Apr
2025 May
2025 Jun
2025 Jul
2025 Aug
2025 Sep
2025 Oct
2025 Nov
2025 Dec
2025 Jan
2026 Feb
2026 Mar
2026 Apr
2026 May
2026 Jun
2026 Jul
2026 Aug
2026 Sep
2026 Oct
2026 Nov
2026 Dec
2026 Jan
2027
Saturday - Saturday
Nov 30, 2024 - Dec 07, 2024Saturday - Saturday
Dec 28, 2024 - Jan 04, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Jan 04, 2025 - Jan 11, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Jan 25, 2025 - Feb 01, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Feb 08, 2025 - Feb 15, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Mar 01, 2025 - Mar 08, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Mar 08, 2025 - Mar 15, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Mar 15, 2025 - Mar 22, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Apr 05, 2025 - Apr 12, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Apr 12, 2025 - Apr 19, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Apr 19, 2025 - Apr 26, 2025Saturday - Saturday
May 10, 2025 - May 17, 2025Saturday - Saturday
May 17, 2025 - May 24, 2025Saturday - Saturday
May 24, 2025 - May 31, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Jun 14, 2025 - Jun 21, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Jun 21, 2025 - Jun 28, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Jun 28, 2025 - Jul 05, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Jul 12, 2025 - Jul 19, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Jul 19, 2025 - Jul 26, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Jul 26, 2025 - Aug 02, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Aug 02, 2025 - Aug 09, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Aug 16, 2025 - Aug 23, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Aug 23, 2025 - Aug 30, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Aug 30, 2025 - Sep 06, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Sep 06, 2025 - Sep 13, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Sep 13, 2025 - Sep 20, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Sep 27, 2025 - Oct 04, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Oct 04, 2025 - Oct 11, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Oct 11, 2025 - Oct 18, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Oct 18, 2025 - Oct 25, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Nov 01, 2025 - Nov 08, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Nov 08, 2025 - Nov 15, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Nov 15, 2025 - Nov 22, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Dec 06, 2025 - Dec 13, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Dec 13, 2025 - Dec 20, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Dec 20, 2025 - Dec 27, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Jan 10, 2026 - Jan 17, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Jan 24, 2026 - Jan 31, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Feb 14, 2026 - Feb 21, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Feb 21, 2026 - Feb 28, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Feb 28, 2026 - Mar 07, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Mar 07, 2026 - Mar 14, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Mar 28, 2026 - Apr 04, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Apr 04, 2026 - Apr 11, 2026Saturday - Saturday
May 02, 2026 - May 09, 2026Saturday - Saturday
May 09, 2026 - May 16, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Jun 06, 2026 - Jun 13, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Jun 13, 2026 - Jun 20, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Jul 04, 2026 - Jul 11, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Jul 11, 2026 - Jul 18, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Jul 18, 2026 - Jul 25, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Jul 25, 2026 - Aug 01, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Aug 08, 2026 - Aug 15, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Aug 15, 2026 - Aug 22, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Aug 22, 2026 - Aug 29, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Aug 29, 2026 - Sep 05, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Sep 05, 2026 - Sep 12, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Sep 12, 2026 - Sep 19, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Sep 19, 2026 - Sep 26, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Sep 26, 2026 - Oct 03, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Oct 24, 2026 - Oct 31, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Oct 31, 2026 - Nov 07, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Nov 07, 2026 - Nov 14, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Nov 21, 2026 - Nov 28, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Nov 28, 2026 - Dec 05, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Dec 05, 2026 - Dec 12, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Jan 02, 2027 - Jan 09, 2027Saturday - Saturday
Jan 09, 2027 - Jan 16, 2027Book with Confidence
-
Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
-
Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
-
Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
Fully Protected
All our holidays are fully financially protected.
Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.
Range
Our bespoke holidays are tailor-made to suit your personal requirements.
We can book flights, rail journeys, accommodation, cruises, attraction tickets and much more.
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
Expert Knowledge
We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.
Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
Trusted Agent
Multi award-winning agency with almost 50 years experience.
Rated 4.9/5 on Trustpilot – the highest-rated high-street travel agent.
We look after you every step of the way.