12-Day Victoria Falls, Botswana & Kruger Safari (Southbound)
Embark on the ultimate Victoria Falls, Botswana & Kruger Safari, a 12-day African adventure filled with spectacular landscapes, iconic wildlife, and immersive cultural experiences. This southbound safari journey begins at the mighty Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, travels through Botswana’s top wildlife destinations, and ends with unforgettable game viewing in South Africa’s famous Kruger National Park. Perfect for mature travelers, this comfortable lodge safari includes stays at quality 3–4-star accommodations with private en-suite facilities.
Itinerary Overview
Days 1–2: Victoria Falls – Zimbabwe
Your Victoria Falls, Botswana & Kruger Safari begins in the vibrant town of Victoria Falls. After a pre-departure meeting, enjoy two days discovering this natural wonder, famously called “The Smoke That Thunders.” Optional activities include helicopter flights, sunset cruises, and whitewater rafting.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Hotel in Victoria Falls Village
Days 3–4: Chobe River & Chobe National Park – Botswana
Cross into Botswana and settle into a riverside lodge near Chobe National Park. Enjoy a morning game drive and an afternoon Chobe River cruise, perfect for spotting elephants, hippos, and the Big 5 in their natural habitat. The sunsets here are unforgettable.
- Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
- Accommodation: Safari Lodge on the Chobe River
Day 5: Makgadikgadi Pans – Botswana
Travel to the Nata region to witness the dramatic salt flats of Makgadikgadi, one of the world’s largest. Enjoy scenic views of this surreal landscape, especially at sunset. In the wet season, it transforms into a haven for migratory wildlife.
- Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge near Nata
Days 6–7: Mapungubwe – South Africa
Cross into South Africa and explore the Mapungubwe World Heritage Site. Discover ancient African kingdoms and San rock art dating back thousands of years. A sunset drive offers a chance to appreciate the dramatic landscapes and baobab trees.
- Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
- Accommodation: Luxury Tented Camp
Day 8: Panorama Route – South Africa
Journey along the scenic Panorama Route to Kruger, stopping at the Blyde River Canyon, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, and God’s Window. This lush canyon offers some of the best views in South Africa before reaching your lodge near Kruger National Park.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Hotel/Safari Lodge near Kruger
Days 9–10: Kruger National Park – South Africa
Spend two full days exploring South Africa’s iconic Kruger National Park in open 4×4 vehicles. With Big 5 sightings and over 500 bird species, this part of your Victoria Falls, Botswana & Kruger Safari offers exceptional game viewing in diverse habitats.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Hotel/Safari Lodge near Kruger
Days 11–12: Kruger to Johannesburg – South Africa
On Day 11, travel to Johannesburg, South Africa’s bustling commercial hub, known for its gold rush history. Your unforgettable Victoria Falls, Botswana & Kruger Safari ends after breakfast on Day 12 with a transfer to OR Tambo International Airport.
- Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
- Accommodation: Hotel near OR Tambo International Airport
Comfortable Safari Transport
This Victoria Falls, Botswana & Kruger Safari uses a custom-built 16-seater Mercedes Sprinter for transfers, offering air-conditioning, extra legroom, reclining seats, USB charging ports, and a fridge. Wildlife drives are conducted in open-sided 4×4 safari vehicles for optimal viewing.
Important Notes
This senior-friendly safari also runs in reverse, from Johannesburg to Victoria Falls, following the same route. Airport transfers (VFA & JNB) are included, and pre/post-safari accommodation can be arranged. Contact Adventure In The Wild Safaris for availability and booking assistance.