Overland safaris

The land of unrelenting sun, where the ground seems to beg the heavens for rain, and the landscapes stretch uninterrupted for hundreds of kilometres on end. Where one gazes in wonder and amazement at the animals and plants that survive in this harsh environment. This tour covers all of the highlights of central and northern Namibia, but also concentrates on "off the beaten track" routes and attractions. Flexibility and an awareness of the elements are essential in order to get the most out of this tour.
DAY 1: WINDHOEK – NAMIB
Setting off from the capital, Windhoek at 09h00, we travel south to Rehoboth, and then towards the true Namib to the DRIFTERS DESERT CAMP on our private game reserve. Arriving to watch the sunset, we are welcomed with a traditional meal, enjoyed under the desert skies. D
DAY 2 : NAMIB DESERT
Awake to desert vistas that extend further than the eye can see. We spend two nights at the DRIFTERS DESERT CAMP nestled against a towering rock outcrop within this protected wilderness area. During our stay here, we will conduct extensive guided walks and game drives on the reserve in order to better understand the desert fauna and flora. B L D
DAY 3: SOSSUSVLEI
After a short morning walk we pack up and head for the Sesriem Canyon and the awesome Sossusvlei dunes. We spend time climbing the dunes before moving on to camp wild in the desert. B L D
DAY 4 – 5 SWAKOPMUND
Crossing the Namib Naukluft Park, we visit the dramatic Lunar Landscape, and the ancient Welwitschia plants, before making for the coastal town of Swakopmund, where we spend two nights in the centrally located DRIFTERS SWAKOPMUND INN. We explore this holiday town and its surrounds thoroughly, and enjoy one evening meal at a local nightspot (own expense). B L D
DAY 6: SKELETON COAST – SPITZKOPPE
Today we head up the barren Skeleton Coast to the Cape Cross-Seal Colony, before venturing inland to camp wild amongst the boulders at the base of the impressive Spitzkoppe. B L D
DAY 7: TWYFELFONTEIN – PALMWAG
A long day, we move on to visit the bushman Rock Engravings at Twyfelfontein before entering Damaraland and crossing the Grootberg to camp the night at the oasis of Palmwag. We hope to catch a glimpse of the rare Desert Elephant today. B L D
DAY 8 – 10: ETOSHA
Entering Etosha National Park, we will spend three nights here in search of the big game that this park is so well known for. Our evening at Okaukuejo will be spent at the floodlit waterhole, watching the many animals that come down to drink. During these days we will conduct extensive game drives within the park. One night we will dine at a camp restaurant (own expense). B L D
DAY 11: WATERBERG PLATEAU
After an early morning game drive we leave Etosha and begin our journey southward to the Waterberg Plateau Park where we camp the night. B L D
DAY 12: WATERBERG – WINDHOEK
This morning we enjoy a walk to the summit of the plateau, offering fantastic views of the surrounding wilderness, and a small game reserve where we hope to see some of Namibia’s rare wildlife. We descend to have lunch, pack up camp, and travel the short distance to Windhoek, arriving back in the capital in the late afternoon. B L
DEPARTURES
Pre- and post- tour nights can be arranged through the Drifters office.

Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful countries on the sub-continent, Zimbabwe can not only boast spectacular features such as ancient ruins from an unknown past, one of the largest rivers in Africa and an abundance of game, but also an efficient tourism infrastructure with a vibrant, friendly local population. Our tour is a camping safari with limited comforts but unlimited adventure. Flexibility and an open mind are essential.
DAY 1: JOHANNESBURG – ZIMBABWE RUINS
Depart Johannesburg early, travel north to cross the border at Beitbridge around noon. Continue northward towards Masvingo and on to the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, where we spend our first night in relative comfort (own expense meals).
DAY 2-3: SAVE RIVER GAME RESERVE
Rising with the sun, we visit the ruins to view the magnificent structures, and to ponder over the mystery surrounding their origin. Thereafter we continue east to the Save River Game Reserve, an area offering some of the finest game viewing in Zimbabwe. We will spend two nights here in our private rustic bush camp, and will explore the area both on foot and in an open vehicle. B L D
DAY 4: EASTERN HIGHLANDS
Leaving the Lowveld, we travel though Mutare, and into the Eastern Highlands, an area of spectacular scenery, forests, mountains and waterfalls. This afternoon we will conduct a short hike in the surrounding forest. Camp the night. B L D
DAY 5: CHINHOYI
(Fly –in passengers join today in Harare)
After an early start, we travel westward along the winding descent into the capital city, Harare, where we enjoy a short stop for lunch (own expense). Leaving Harare, we continue to our overnight stop near Chinhoyi, where we spend the remainder of the day viewing the excellent Bushman paintings surrounding our camp. B D
DAY 6: KARIBA
This morning we enjoy a short walk to an ancient Mashona cave dwelling before descending into the Zambezi Valley, and on to Lake Kariba, third largest man-made lake in the world. In the afternoon we enjoy a boat cruise on the lake, and return to camp the night on the shores. B L D
DAY 7: ZAMBIA
After exploring the town of Kariba, we cross the dam wall to enter Zambia. Our next stop is Gwabi, at the confluence of the Kafue and mighty Zambezi rivers. The afternoon is spent preparing for the upcoming canoe trip. We camp the night. B L D
DAY 8- 10: ZAMBEZI CANOE TRIP
A mighty river literally boiling with hippo and crocodiles, and luring every kind of animal imaginable to drink from its muddy banks, the Zambezi need very little introduction, and justifiably so. We start the adventure from Gwabi and then continue down the river, past Mana Pools, at our own pace. Paddling with the strong current, we spend two days on the water, game viewing and bird watching, camping wild on islands each night. Day 10 is spent at the Chongwe River in the Lower Zambezi National Park, before transferring back by boat to overnight once again at Gwabi camp where we enjoy a welcome restaurant meal. (own expense). B L D
DAY 11 –12: VICTORIA FALLS
An early start this morning, we travel though Zambia, via Livingstone, and then view the phenomenal Victoria Falls before crossing the original steel Railway Bridge to Zimbabwe. Here you are able to wander around, exploring the multitude of curio stalls and the other attractions that this bustling town has to offer. We spend two nights here in the DRIFTERS VICTORIA FALL INN, giving those who wish to do so the opportunity of participating in a day’s white-water rafting below the falls (own expense). We will eat at a restaurant on one of these two nights (own expense). B L D
DAY 13: HWANGE
(Passengers flying out will depart today from Victoria Falls).
Leaving the vibrant town of Victoria Falls, we head for our private bush camp in Hwange. This afternoon / evening we will conduct an extensive open-vehicle game drive in search of the herds of game that this park is so well known for. Camp the night. B L D
DAY 14: BULAWAYO – MATOBO
An early start, after breakfast we head for the wide streets of Bulawayo, and then on to our camp nestled amongst the precariously balancing boulders of Matobo. This afternoon we enjoy a game drive in the National Park, before returning to camp for a celebratory meal at the local restaurant. (own expense). B L
DAY 15: NORTHERN PROVINCE
Starting the homeward journey, we cross the border back into South Africa, and then travel the short distance to our camp within a private game reserve in Kalahari sand veld. We will spend the afternoon here simply relaxing, and viewing bushman paintings on the property. B L D
DAY 16: JOHANNESBURG
A leisurely start this morning, we pack up camp and continue south to arrive in Johannesburg in the early afternoon. B
DEPARTURES
On occasion we may run two tours, one of which will do the itinerary in the reverse direction.
8-DAY FLY-IN WATER SPECTACULAR CAMPING SAFARI
Harare to Victoria Falls
This fly-in tour option joins up with the 16-day overland tour in Harare and leaves it at Victoria Falls, or vice versa. It includes the Lake Kariba, Zambezi canoeing, and Victoria Falls with the option of white water rafting.

The ultimate experience for the young and really adventurous is an overland camping safari through Africa. With adventure around every corner, and sometimes finding oneself so isolated that the nearest town could be some 300 kilometres away, this trip is certainly not for the faint-hearted. We expect a great deal of participation and flexibility from all passengers on this trip, without which the tour cannot be a success. This tour is not recommended for clients over 45 years of age.
DAY 1: JOHANNESBURG – NORTHERN PROVINCE
Leaving Johannesburg early, we begin our trek north. Stopping en-route to do some last minute shopping, we head for our rustic bush-camp set on a private game reserve. We arrive early and familiarise ourselves with the vehicle and equipment, before camping the night. Enjoy a traditional "braai". D
DAY 2: ZIMBABWE RUINS
After a morning game walk, we travel the short distance to the border where we complete formalities and then travel directly to the Great Zimbabwe Ruins. The afternoon is spent exploring this massive complex, and delving into the mysteries surrounding their origin. Tonight we enjoy a night of relative comfort, and a catered meal (own expense). B L
DAY 3: BULAWAYO / MATOBO
A short drive today, we pass through the wide streets of Bulawayo, and on to our camp nestled amongst the precariously balancing boulders of Matobo. This afternoon we enjoy an open vehicle drive into the Matobo National Park in search of animals. B L D
DAY 4: HWANGE
This morning we stretch our legs with a climb on one of the "kopies" surrounding our camp before packing up and moving on to Hwange. This afternoon we enjoy an extensive open vehicle drive in search of the animals for which Hwange is so well known. Tonight we drift off to sleep to the sounds of the wild at our exclusive bush camp in the Kennedy area. B L D
DAY 5 – 6: VICTORIA FALLS
Leaving our bush-camp, we head for the amazing spectacle of Victoria Falls, and the surrounding tourist village. We spend two days here, at the DRIFTERS VICTORIA FALLS INN. There are numerous activities to pursue here, such as bungi-jumping, white-water rafting and aircraft flips (own expense). Clients will have leisure time to explore the town. One evening meal will be at a local restaurant (own expense). B L D
DAY 7: GWABI CAMP
An early start, we have a view of the falls whilst crossing the historic Livingstone Bridge over the Zambezi Gorge into Zambia. Our journey takes us across southern Zambia to the Kafue River where we set up camp at Gwabi. Relax by the pool and enjoy a hot shower. B L D
DAY 8 – 10: ZAMBEZI CANOE
After a river safety and procedure briefing we begin our canoeing adventure. These days are the highlight of the tour with excellent bird and game viewing opportunities. Hippo and other big game may be encountered at close range. This section does involve a certain amount of effort, and at night we camp wild on certain islands. We end the paddle at the Chongwe River, and camp here on the last night. The next day we conduct a short game walk before transferring back to Gwabi camp by boat, for a hot shower and a catered meal (own expense). Camp the night. B L D
DAY 11: KACHALOLA
We continue north via the capital city, Lusaka, where we stock up on provisions, before moving along the Great East Road to our camp in the Kachalola district. B L D
DAY 12 – 13: LUANGWA VALLEY
Travel on to camp on the banks of the Luangwa River where we overnight for two nights just outside the Luangwa National Park. We enter the southern park for some spectacular game viewing with excellent opportunities of Leopard sightings. Camp both nights. (Optional night drive, own expense). B L D
DAY 14 – 15: LIVINGSTONIA BEACH
Today we enter Malawi, and after replenishing stocks and spending some time at the curio stalls in Lilongwe, we continue down to the lake where we spend two nights literally camping on the beach. The days are spent simply relaxing and soaking up the sun, or for the more energetic, the crystal clear waters offer excellent snorkeling and lovely beach walks. B L D
DAY 16 –17: LAKE MALAWI
Following the winding road along the lakeshore, we continue up to Chinteche, where we again camp the night on the beach, and enjoy Lake Malawi, one of Africa’s jewels. Our last stop on the Lake is at the village of Karonga, near the Tanzanian border, where we camp the night, and prepare for an early start the following morning. B L D
DAY 18: MIKUMI
Entering Tanzania, we begin our journey across this vast country. Tonight we will camp in the remote village of Mikumi. B L D
DAY 19: DAR ES SALAAM / ZANZIBAR
We arrive in Dar Es Salaam, the capital of Tanzania, around noon. Making our way through this bustling city, we head directly to the harbour where we embark on the ferry ride across to the spice island, Zanzibar. B L D
DAY 20 – 22: ZANZIBAR
Exploring the spice island thoroughly, we spend time at the remote villages and sandy beaches of the north, and enjoying the mystique and history of the Stone Town. Visit the slave pits and participate in a spice tour, the food and fruit market is not to be missed. Sample the local cuisine one night (own expense). B L D
DAY 23: ZANZIBAR / DAR ES SALAAM
Leaving the island behind, we board the night ferry for our journey back to the mainland. B L D
DAY 24 – 25: ARUSHA
Arriving in Dar Es Salaam early morning, we are reunited with our vehicle and then continue on to Arusha where we spend two nights camping in this bustling town. We enjoy a full day of curio shopping and exploring the numerous markets etc. At this stage it is possible to view Mount Kilimanjaro , the highest point in Africa, if the clouds oblige. B L D
DAY 26: SERENGETI
Travelling from Arusha to Serengeti we are bound to witness the impressive Masai herdsmen, herding their cattle amongst the game. Most of the day is a game drive with exceptional game viewing potential, and we arrive at the Seronera camp in the late afternoon to camp the night. B L D
DAY 27: SERENGETI / NGORONGORO
Rising early we continue game viewing for the entire day, before exiting the park and making for Simba Camp to camp the night on the lip of the Ngorongoro crater. B L D
DAY 28: NGORONGORO CRATER
We descend into the crater on the steep dirt track cut into the crater wall. The diverse habitats of lake, swamp, grassland and acacia forests bring with them an equal diversity of game, with everything one can imagine , from Flamingo to Elephant and the ever-present Masai herdsmen. We finally exit the crater after lunch to return to Arusha for the night. B L D
DAY 29: NAIROBI
After a final hopeful glimpse of Kilimanjaro we head due north to enter Kenya and to travel directly to Nairobi. We overnight in a simple hotel with an evening farewell meal (own expense). B L
DAY 30: NAIROBI
After breakfast we bid farewell to our fellow travellers and depart on our separate ways.
Clients may join or leave this tour at certain stages of the itinerary. Call us for a quote in this regard. On the northbound tours, clients may on occasion return to Johannesburg with the vehicle at a nominal cost, but Drifters will be under no obligation whatsoever.
DEPARTURES

A crossroads of civilizations, cultures and landscapes, influenced from the early days by nomadic tribes, Arab traders, British sailors and Portuguese colonials, then torn apart by over 20 years of civil war. With new-found peace, and a fast growing economy recently reopened for tourism, Mozambique offers the explorer a wealth of treasures in the form of untouched wilderness areas, natural beauty, deserted beaches, and unique cultural heritage.
This tour combines the well-known attraction of the Kruger National Park, where animals abound, living in their natural environment, with the recently initiated Transfrontier Peace Park. This new park will incorporate the existing Kruger Park as well large adjoining parts of Mozambique and Zimbabwe. We will traverse the entire Mozambique section, using rough bush tracks, and camping wild at remote, unspoiled, yet incredibly scenic bush camps. The tour will also visit scenic and cultural attractions in the former homeland of Venda, and will spend time at deserted Indian Ocean beaches. We end with a night in the capital Maputo, where we experience the culture, and enjoy the nightlife. A 4x4 EXPEDITION VEHICLE is used for this tour, but clients must expect delays, detours, and inconvenience associated with exploring such rough terrain. An open mind-set and a sense of humour are essential.
DAY 1: JOHANNESBURG – SOUTPANSBERG MOUNTAINS
Departing at 06h30 from the Drifters Inn, we head north through Pietersburg, and toward the awesome Soutpansberg Mountains. Once in the mountains, we turn off of the beaten track to explore the area of Venda, a former apartheid homeland, boasting a very strong African culture and intriguing sights including sacred lakes, strangler fig forests and remote villages. Tonight, at the foot of the mountains we enjoy our first night of camping and familiarise ourselves with the equipment. D
DAY 2: KRUGER NATIONAL PARK
Arising with the African sun, we spend the morning exploring and visiting the sights of Venda. After lunch we head for the world-renowned Kruger National Park which is widely acclaimed as being Africa’s most successful Nature Reserve. We will spend our time here driving in search of the many animal and bird species that inhabit the area, and will camp the two nights in one of the park rest camps. B L D
DAY 3: KRUGER NATIONAL PARK
This entire day is for viewing animals in the Kruger from our well-equipped vehicle. We will search for the "Big 5" today, and will cover the area from the Limpopo river in the north to Shingwedzi in the south. Camp the night. B L D
DAY 4 – 5: MOZAMBIQUE TRANSFRONTIER PARK
This morning, after a visit to Crook’s corner, the point marking the border between South Africa, Mozambique and Zimbabwe and renowned as a hideout for poachers in the colonial days, we cross the border into Mozambique. At this point the road becomes a bush track, and we will follow the path of the Limpopo River toward Mapai before venturing into the heart of the wilderness.
The area that we traverse over the next days is what forms the Mozambique side of the Transfrontier Peace Park, and is privileged to have remained virtually unexplored by humans. The bush is exceptional, and offers areas of exquisite natural beauty and wildlife. The diversity of the flora ensures some of the finest birding in Africa. We will spend four nights in this area camping wild, exploring both on foot and by vehicle, and enjoying the serenity of the wilderness. Road conditions are rough, and river crossings numerous, clients will be expected to assist in difficult sections, but for those seeking true adventure and unspoiled Africa, there are few areas that compare with this. B L D
DAY 6 – 7: BANHINE / ZINAVE
Leaving the Transfrontier Park, we make our way across the Limpopo River and into the heart of the Banhine / Zinave wilderness region where we will spend two nights wild bush camping. We will attempt to traverse some of the Zinave Park, once renowned for its abundant wildlife. Few people have visited these areas in the last two decades. B L D
DAY 8: VILANCULOS
Leaving the wilderness behind us, today we pass through the many vibrant and bustling villages en route to the coast. Our next stop is Vilanculos - on the shores of the warm azure Indian Ocean, overlooking the Idyllic Bazaruto Archipelago. We spend one night here, situated literally on the beach. During our time here we will relax, snorkel, and soak up the sun whilst enjoying the deserted beaches that Mozambique is so well known for. Tonight we will enjoy a meal at a local restaurant.
(Own expense) B L D
DAY 9-10: INHAMBANE
Moving south along the coast, our next stop is the ancient trading port of Inhambane. Clients will enjoy a trip across the bay on a traditional Dhow while the guide drives around to meet in town. We spend some time exploring before continuing to our camp under the Coconut Palms on the beach. We will spend two nights at this camp, enjoying the many beach activities on offer. Those who wish to have the option of scuba diving (own expense). B L D
DAY 11 – 12: CHIDENGUELE
After a day of crossing vast coastal flood plains and passing through forests of cashew nut trees, we arrive at our next stop - the pristine resort of Chidenguele. Situated on a sand dune, inland is thick coastal forest and large freshwater lakes; to the other side is deserted sandy beach as far as the eye can see. We have a full day here to explore the area and to walk to the deserted lighthouse that can be climbed for a stunning view of the surrounding area. Overnight in comfortable bungalows. B L D
DAY 13: MAPUTO
Well relaxed and sun-drenched, we continue down the coast to the capital Maputo where we check into our beachfront hotel before exploring this once grandiose city. Maputo boasts a Latino culture of street cafés, music and nightlife. Tonight we will eat in a local restaurant, sampling some of the local seafood (own expense). For the brave, Peri–Peri is a must. B L
DAY 14: ELEPHANT RESERVE
Today’s adventure begins with a ferry ride across the Maputo Bay to Catembe. Leaving the ferry we are back onto sandy tracks as we wind our way south to the Elephant reserve where we will spend the entire afternoon exploring the coastal flood plains and surrounding forests in search of these larger than usual African elephants. Somehow, during the war years these elephants survived by moving down the Futi channel into South Africa, it is one of nature’s miracles that they have now returned in large numbers. We will camp the night in the reserve. B L D
DAY 15 – 16: ZULULAND
Returning to South Africa today via the Ponta do Ouro border post, we enter the area once ruled by the famed Shaka Zulu. We will spend two nights at the DRIFTERS ZULULAND CAMP, a rustic camp situated in the sand forest on our private reserve near Hluhluwe. During our stay we will hike through the forest along the banks of Lake St Lucia, enjoy an open vehicle game drive in Hluhluwe Game Reserve and will visit a rural Zulu school which Drifters sponsors through the benefits of tourism.
B L D
DAY 17: JOHANNESBURG
Our journey today takes us through the heart of Kwazulu – Natal, we will pass many rural Zulu villages and some spectacular scenery en-route back to Johannesburg. We arrive back at the DRIFTERS JOHANNESBURG INN in the late afternoon. B
DEPARTURES

The casual visitor to Botswana could be excused for seeing the country as kilometre upon kilometre of flat, desolate scrubland with little or no surface water. However, to the north lies the magnificent Okavango waterway, with its green and fertile plains, flowing straight into the sea of sand, the Kalahari Desert, and vanishing. Almost a quarter of this country is devoted to wildlife sanctuaries and these remote and unspoilt wilderness areas are widely acknowledged as offering the finest game viewing in Africa. We offer the option of two variations of safaris to this area, covering the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, Okavango Delta, Moremi, Savuti, Chobe and Victoria Falls. These tours offer the traveller, photographer birdwatcher and naturalist the ultimate natural paradise. Our camping Trips are for people who can "rough it" and not for 5-star safari seekers. A certain amount of flexibility is required when dealing with so many variable factors and third-world conditions.
During certain times of the year, we may run these tours in the reverse direction, so clients must expect to travel in the reverse direction if required to do so.
DAY 1: JOHANNESBURG – NATA
Departing from Johannesburg in the early morning, we set off for the Botswana border. On completion of Customs and Immigration formalities we head for Nata Lodge, an oasis-like camp on the edge of the salt pan, where we camp the night. Familiarise yourself with the procedures of the tour over a catered meal (own expense).
DAY 2: NATA – MAKGADIKGADI PANS
After a leisurely breakfast we transfer to the 4x4 vehicle for an initial visit to the nearby Nata Sanctuary to view the spectacular shallow salt pans for their unique bird life and the other desert species of animals they attract. We then return to Nata Lodge for a welcome swim and a bite to eat. Relax for a few hours during the heat of the day before breaking camp and packing up to head down the Maun road out to the Makgadikgadi Pans for a short excursion on to the white crusty surface. Explore the area for Springbok, Gemsbok and other unique species. Camp the night wild and take in the isolation and serenity of the star-studded night. B L D
DAY 3: MAUN
(13-day fly-in passengers join here)
Leaving the pans, we drive directly to the DRIFTERS MAUN CAMP. This camp is situated on the banks of the Boteti River, near Maun, and offers us the opportunity to rid ourselves of the Makgadikgadi dust under a warm shower. In the afternoon we will visit Maun to resupply, and to collect any fly-in passengers before returning to the inn for a traditional "braai" and to camp the night. B L D
DAY 4-7: OKAVANGO DELTA
The Okavango, a massive river spilling its contents into the Kalahari desert sands, creating one of the world’s only true inland deltas, and a unique ecosystem that supports a huge variety of animal and plant life. The sight of a nervous Lechwe pounding across a flooded plain, the Jacana striding delicately amongst the flowering lilies, the Bee Eater diving to prey on an unsuspecting insect, and of course the familiar cry of the African Fish Eagle all combine to create one of nature’s masterpieces. We spend three nights camping in a remote part of this wilderness, exploring the area on foot and by mekoro, the traditional aquatic mode of transport. There will also be time to simply appreciate the remoteness and serenity of the area. Late on day 7 we return to the DRIFTERS MAUN CAMP to spruce up before heading into town for a catered meal at a local restaurant (own expense). B L
(In times of drought, it may not be possible to travel by mekoro; on such occasions we will explore the delta on foot, by vehicle, or we may replace a day in the delta with a visit to the Nxai Pan National Park).
DAY 8-12: FLEXIBLE GAME RESERVE PROGRAMME (MOREMI/SAVUTI/CHOBE)
We pop back into Maun first thing in the morning, and whilst the guide stocks up with supplies for the onward journey, you have the option of an hour’s game flight over the delta (own expense).
Now we prepare for the game viewing part of the trip. Perched high on our well-equipped vehicle we head north into the wilderness, passing remote villages and curio sellers along the way. We spend five days in these reserves, starting with Moremi, camping the first night near the well-known 3rd Bridge. Drift off to sleep to the howl of the Hyena or the earthy roar of a Lion, and even the deep grunt of a half-submerged Hippo. We then head on north via Xakanaxa to camp near North Gate. This area is excellent for game viewing and we will conduct afternoon and morning drives along the wetland areas. B L D
Then on up to Savuti where we normally spend two nights. The area offers a multitude of game drive options and a very active campsite (keep the fruit well hidden from the roving Elephant, and the meat from the prowling Hyenas). The vegetation is constantly changing, from open plains, palm trees and marshland, to dense Mopane woodlands and Acacia scrub. B L D
Moving into Chobe, famous for its large herds of Elephant, which gather on the flood plains, we spend the morning exploring the banks of the majestic Chobe River. Here we hope to see the Puku, found exclusively on the Chobe flats. We then enjoy a boat trip to our island camp on the Chobe River. B L D
DAY 13 – 14: VICTORIA FALLS
After the tedious sandy miles, it is with new excitement that we make for Zimbabwe and the fantastic Victoria Falls, "Mosi o Tunya", the smoke that thunders. After admiring this wonder of the world, various other places can be visited, such as the tribal village, the big tree, the curio market and the croc farm. A 20-minute flip over the falls or a boat trip on the Zambezi River are both worthwhile. Please note that whilst in Victoria Falls it is possible to take part in the one-day Zambezi White Water Rafting adventure or even a suicidal bungi-jump off the 100m high bridge. This is an experience not to be missed, but allowance must be made for the extra expense. We spend two nights at the DRIFTERS VICTORIA FALLS INN, thus allowing people the opportunity to explore, either on foot or bicycle, by themselves. The last night at Victoria Falls we all celebrate our experiences with a slap-up meal at a local restaurant (own expense). Relax to the sound of the African night and the distant roar of the falls and drink the farewell toasts to your adventure. B
DAY 15:VICTORIA FALLS-NATA
The people flying out on the 13-day tour will do so here and overlanders will return to Botswana and complete the triangle back to Nata. Camp for the last time and share your experiences with the next tour just arriving (dinner own expense). B L
DAY 16: NATA – JOHANNESBURG
Transfer back to the bus to arrive in Johannesburg in the early evening (all meals own expense).
DEPARTURES
BOTSWANA 13-DAY FLY-IN CAMPING SAFARI
Maun to Victoria Falls
This fly-in tour option joins up with the 16-day overland tour in Maun and leaves it in Victoria Falls, or vice versa, thereby shortening the travelling time. Obviously with the flights one pays a premium and certain sections are forfeited. However, for those who dread the long-distance travelling, or who have limited time, this tour is more convenient.

From the dynamic city of Cape Town to the scorched deserts of Namibia and the wildlife sanctuaries of Botswana and Zimbabwe, this tour endeavours to show the highlights of the region. On a journey of contrasts, we will canoe the Orange River, climb giant sand dunes, game drive in some of Africa's best-known parks, and view the mighty Victoria Falls. We cover a great deal of distance on this tour on some remote and rough roads, and clients must be prepared for this, but the natural wonders that we will encounter more than compensate for any discomfort for those who truly seek adventure.
DAY 1 - 2: CAPE TOWN
We all meet at the Drifters Cape Town Inn at 13h00 to spend the afternoon exploring and visiting the sites. We have one-and-a-half days here, in which time we will hike Table Mountain, visit Cape Point, the Waterfront, Hout Bay, the Stellenbosch Winelands and numerous other sights. Out exact program depends on the weather. Overnight in our Inn on the beachfront for the two nights. (Lunches and both evening meals will be at restaurants - own expense). B
DAY 3 : WEST COAST
We leave the "Mother City" behind us to travel north through the "Swartland" And then along the West Coast to Garies. In early spring this usually barren area comes to life with the blooming of numerous desert adapted flower species. We camp the night. B D 
DAY 4 - 5: ORANGE RIVER CANOE TRIP
Today we cross the border into Namibia, then travel the short distance to our base camp on the banks of the Orange River, from where we begin our canoe adventure. Once we have packed all of our gear into the two-man canoes, we set off into the wilderness. The Orange River creates an awesome spectacle, a green ribbon winding its way through the desert and towering mountains of the Richtersveld National Park. We will spend one night camping on the banks, under the desert skies, and return to our base camp and the vehicle to camp the next night in relative comfort. B L D
DAY 6: FISH RIVER CANYON
Today we head directly for the Fish River Canyon, the second largest of its kind in the world. After visiting the viewpoints, from where the energetic can hike to the canyon floor, we set up camp at the nearby campsite of Hobas. B L D
DAY 7 – 8: NAMIB DESERT
Leaving the Canyon behind us, we continue north to the true Namib Desert, with its continually shifting barchan dunes and magnificent landscapes. The next two nights are spent at the DRIFTERS DESERT CAMP situated on our private game reserve. This camp is spectacularly situated against a rock outcrop between the stark mountains and the red dune-lands. During our stay here we will conduct guided walks and drives within the reserve. B L D
DAY 9: SOSSUSVLEI - SWAKOPMUND
An early start, we travel directly to the dune fields of Sossusvlei. The last part of the journey to the dunes will be through the thick dune sand and for this we use an open 4X4 vehicle. After climbing the dunes for the spectacular view from the summit, we transfer by 4X4 back to our vehicle and continue on to the seaside town of Swakopmund where we will spend two nights at the DRIFTERS SWAKOPMUND INN. Tonight we enjoy a restaurant meal (own expenses). B L
DAY 10: SWAKOPMUND
The DRIFTERS INN provides the ideal location for exploring the town of Swakopmund with its beaches, markets, curio shops and huge variety adventure options that include quad biking, parasailing, horse-riding, dune boarding, aircraft flips and many more. The night-life in Swakopmund is also worth experiencing. B L D
DAY 11: SPITZKOPPE
Today we head up the Skeleton Coast to the seal colony of Cape Cross before venturing inland to the impressive Spitzkoppe where we camp wild amongst the boulders at the base of the massive rock outcrop. B L D
DAY 12: PALMWAG
Continuing through the desert, we move on to visit the Bushman Rock Engravings at Twyfelfontein, whereafter we cross the mountains into the wilderness to camp in the Palmwag region. We hope to see the Desert Elephants on this day. B L D
DAY 13 - 14: ETOSHA
For an incredible wildlife experience, we enter the Etosha National Park, and after setting up camp at Okaukuejo, enjoy and extensive afternoon game drive. We return to the camp to spend the evening game viewing at the floodlit waterhole. Continuing through the game reserve. we drive to Fort Namutoni to camp the night. One night we dine at a camp restaurant (own expense). B L D
DAY 15: CAPRIVI
Leaving the harsh desert landscapes behind us, we travel north to the lush Caprivi area. Tonight we will camp on the banks of the might Okavango River at Ngepi. B L D
DAY 16: MAUN
Crossing into Botswana today, we travel through the Kalahari to the frontier town of Maun. Those who wish to may take an optional flight over the Okavango Delta this afternoon. Tonight we stay at the DRIFTERS MAUN CAMP. B L D
DAY 17: DELTA
Transferring to a 4X4 vehicle we travel the sandy tracks into the heart of the Okavango Delta where we will conduct a mekoro (dugout canoe) trip to our remote camp in search of the huge variety of animals that occur here. Tonight we camp wild. B L D
DAY 18: NATA
After a short walk in this unspoiled wilderness we return to the DRIFTERS MAUN CAMP to freshen up before continuing through the Makgadigadi Salt Pans to the oasis-like camp of Nata. Camp the night. B L D
DAY 19: KASANE - ISLAND CAMP
Travelling north through the Chobe Forest Reserves, we head for the border town of Kasane from where we venture into the renowned Chobe National Park in search of the large concentrations of animals that this area is known for. This afternoon we enjoy a boat trip on the river to our island camp situated in the middle of the might Chobe River. B L D
DAY 20 - 21: VICTORIA FALLS
This morning we enjoy our boat transfer back to our vehicle, then cross the border and travel the short distance tp the "adventure capital of Africa", Victoria Falls. We spend two nights here at the DRIFTERS VICTORIA FALLS INN, giving us ample time to explore the Falls, and to participate in a multitude of other activities on offer: white water rafting, bungi-jumping, aircraft flips, etc. (An evening meal and both lunches will be for own expense). B L D
DAY 22: BULAWAYO - MATOBO
Leaving the crowds at Victoria Falls, we travel south to the wide streets of Bulawayo, Zimbabwe's second largest city and then on to the Matobo where we will camp the night in our bush camp situated amongst the precariously balanced boulders that this area is known for. B L D
DAY 23: MACHETE
This morning we enjoy a tour of the National Park to view the sight and game. We then continue south , crossing the border into South Africa and to our bushcamp situated on a private game reserve within the Limpopo Valley. B L D
DAY 24: JOHANNESBURG
This morning we conduct a short walk to view the magnificent bushman paintings that surround our camp, before making the journey back to Johannesburg. We arrive at the DRIFTERS JOHANNESBURG INN in the late afternoon. B
DEPARTURES

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