If what you’ve always wanted is an African holiday that is tranquil but includes enough time to see the magnificent Big 5, then this is just the tour for you. The African safari holiday is an experience like no other, which is why for many travellers it is the dream vacation.
And this dream can be your reality when you book our exclusive 9-day Botswana & Zambia Safari. You will be spending some time in Chobe National Park, and you’ll also get to explore the Zambezi River. Both of these destinations are simply teeming with wildlife. As the tour has “floating” in the name, you can look forward to spending some time enjoying the area’s untouched bays on private boats, marvelling at the beauty of Sanyati Gorge, and exploring Matusadona National Park.

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Itinerary

Day 1 | Zambezi Region

Guests meet up at the Kasane Airport no later than at 1:30pm (please note that the border post between Botswana and Namibia closes at 4:30 pm)

The transfer from the airport to Cascades Island Lodge is aboard small private boats. Enjoy the short boat ride and observe the numerous bird species living among the flooded flat-lands, with even a glimpse of a few hippos or crocodiles basking in the sun! Friendly staff await your arrival and will help settle guests into the luxury lodge.

Accommodation
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Scheduled Lodge Activities

Day 2 | Zambezi Region

Typically guests are whisked away in open game viewing vehicles on a full-day safari to explore the Chobe National Park which is home to more than a quarter of Africa’s elephant population.

Enjoy lunch on the “floating restaurant” in the middle of the river where the views of the surrounding nature are unparalleled. Afterwards, small private boats sail off on the Chobe River all the way to Sedudu Island and its marshes, returning to the island lodge where dinner and your lodge once again await.

Accommodation
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Scheduled Lodge Activities

Day 3 | Zambezi Region

Join the guides for a trip to authentic villages on Impalila Island, Namibia, to discover the traditional Namibian houses, culture and customs, after which lunch is served at the lodge. Guests can then enjoy some tranquil leisure-time at the lodge, taking advantage of the bungalow’s own private pool and river frontage, or join guides on a discovery of the Zambezi River using small private boats.

Dinner is again served at the lodge and that night a local expert will tell of the traditions of this particular island.

Accommodation
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Scheduled Lodge Activities

Day 4 | Zambezi Region to Zimbabwe

Guests depart from the lodge for the Kasane Airport where they board small private aircraft for a short flight between Kasane and Kariba over the stunning panoramas of Lake Kariba with its amazing changing landscapes.

From Kariba airport, the transfer is a short road trip to board the African Dream. After settling into the private cabins, guests enjoy lunch on-board as the African Dream sets sail across the lake.

Accommodation
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Scheduled Cruise Activities

Day 5 | Zimbabwe

At sunrise, the cruise is underway again passing through the rare and mysterious landscapes of Lake Kariba where drowned trees still reach skywards from the azure-blue depths. Small private boats are used to explore the Gache Gache River and its unique wildlife. Gliding along its meandering course exploring unspoiled bays, islands and inlets, one will be amazed by the magical spirit of Kariba. The min-cruiser will return for lunch and that afternoon, African Dream sails through one of the most impressive gorges to be found at Lake Kariba, the Sanyati Gorge, mooring at sundown for the second night aboard.

Accommodation
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Scheduled Cruise Activities

Day 6 | Zimbabwe

The cruise then sails in the morning on a safari to explore the area around Matusadona National Park.

Bordered by the Sanyati and Ume Rivers, this 540 square mile (1,400km²) untouched wilderness is home to numerous animal species such as elephants, lions, hippos, crocodiles, buffalos as well as hundreds of bird species, among which the legendary African Fish Eagle.

Accommodation
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Scheduled Cruise Activities

Day 7 | Victoria Falls

At sunrise, an early start will see African Dream set sail towards Kariba to disembark and journey to the airport.

On the way, a tour of the gigantic Kariba Dam Wall which was created in 1955 to form Lake Kariba is undertaken.

Accommodation
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Scheduled Camp Activities

Day 8 | Victoria Falls

A tour to famous Victoria Falls or a visit to a cultural village anyone?

The camp offers a myriad of activities included in the room rate.

Enjoy!

Accommodation
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Scheduled Camp Activities

Day 9 | Departure

Time until check out at leisure. Thereafter you will be collected for your transfer to Victoria Falls International Airport where our journey ends.

DETAILS

COST

From: USD 9,435.00 Per Person Sharing

INCLUDED

Your cruise with double/single cabin accommodation in your choice of category
Accommodation in double/single room at lodges as stipulated
All meals
All drinks included with meals and at the on board bar on the African Dream and at stipulated lodges
Visits and excursions mentioned in the program

NOT-INCLUDED

International flights
Zimbabwean Visa (Must be paid on site, cost differs by Nationality category and ranges between USD 45 and USD 70,please check with Zimbabwe Embassies in your respective country)
Cancellation/baggage insurance
Tips for crew members on the African Dream and at the lodges (for informational purposes, daily tips per passenger amount to US$5)
Botswana Tourism levy (US$30 payable at the airport of entry and likely to be applicable in the year)

ACCOMMODATION

Cascade Island Lodge

Intricate floating walkways, surrounded by wild and powerful waterways, link an untouched Namibian cluster of islands in the heart of the Mambova Rapids. It’s ideal for intimate honeymoons, exclusive corporate getaways or adventure seekers looking for ultra-luxury accommodation.
Situated 70km upriver from the Victoria Falls – where white sand beaches and palm trees add to the romance – Cascade Island Lodge (Once Ntwala Island Lodge) is a wonderfully secluded Chobe destination.

Flame of Africa

The Lady of the Lake, Lady Jacqueline Kariba houseboat, is a beautiful 65ft Cruiser with cabin capacity for 10 people . She is fully equipped and furnished with all the uncomplicated comforts that make a trip aboard her one of simple luxury. Her spacious interior and ample deck area invite you to sit back and enjoy the very best of the “Kariba Houseboat Experience” in Zimbabwe.

The Elephant Camp*****

Situated on a private concession within and bounded by the Masuwe River and the Zambezi gorges, The Elephant Camp and The Elephant Camp West have breath-taking views of the Victoria Falls’ spray and the spectacular gorges which separate Zimbabwe and Zambia. The Elephant Camp is a luxury, intimate lodge under canvas within easy reach of Victoria Falls (approximately 10km) and all its attractions and activities, yet secluded in its own private game reserve. The Elephant Camp offers exclusive suite accommodation for only 24 guests in 12 luxury tents. The Elephant Camp West is an extension of The Elephant Camp, extending to the West of the current facility and catering to groups and families. The facility operates independently of the main camp ensuring a more intimate and serene experience for groups and guests. The Elephant Camp West offers exclusive suite accommodation for only 16 guests (8 adults and 8 children) in 4 luxury tents. Each suite in The Elephant Camp West can accommodate two adults and two children. All suites are gorge facing and boast a private viewing deck and plunge pool, private lounge area, air-conditioning and fans, bath (with a view), inside and outside shower, mini bar and tea/coffee stations. The lounge, bar and dining area lead out to a sun kissed pool from where the roar of the water rushing over gorges becomes a constant beat and soon settles into the background like an old friend. It is calming and therapeutic to sit back, watch and listen to “the smoke that thunders”… Select Spa Treatments are available in the privacy of your suite (subject to availability, on request at an additional charge). Access is by road transfer from Victoria Falls (15 km from Victoria Falls Airport and 10 km from Victoria Falls town), Livingstone and Kasane.

Frequently asked questions

What's special about the Zambezi River?

The mighty Zambezi River is home to fascinating wildlife and unbelievable scenery. Depending on the time of year you plan to visit the area, you can expect to have a more exclusive experience, free from the tourist crowds.

Are boat trip safe?

Safety is always placed at the forefront of any boat trip in the Zambezi. Experienced and qualified guides will lead all boat trips, ensuring everyone’s safety and comfort. They’ll provide clear instructions and life jackets will be readily available on board.