Our team recently went on a self-drive expedition from Victoria Falls to Botswana via Namibia. We highly recommend this self-drive trip for adventure seekers who prefer to be in the thick of things. We are also pleased to report that the road conditions throughout the route were well-maintained and suitable for a self-drive with the right vehicle.
This exciting road adventure starts in Victoria Falls, world-renowned as one of the Seven Natural Wonders. Here guests can do a guided tour of the Falls or participate in other exciting activities such as a flight over the Falls to experience it from above, bungee jumping for the adrenaline junkies, a cruise on the Zambezi River and so much more. We stayed at Shongwe Oasis which is an adults-only lodge with all the right amenities to keep you relaxed as you prepare for your adventure in the bush. Some of the amenities include a spa, jacuzzi, sit-in pool, restaurant, and a bar.
Heading east will take you to the Caprivi Region of Namibia, which is the largest wetland area in Namibia and the perfect place to combine river cruises and game drives to witness the vast variety of wildlife in their natural habitat. We stayed at Nkasa Lupala Tented Lodge, built on the banks of the river with magnificent views. The lodge offers activities and spa treatments and while children of all ages are welcome, we recommend this lodge for the adventure seeker who enjoys a down-to-earth experience but with all the creature comforts.
Continuing further east takes you to the village of Divundu, home to an array of beautiful lodges set on the banks of the Okavango River. The region is ideal for boat safaris and game drives with an abundance of fauna and flora for nature enthusiasts. We also recommend a visit to the serene Popa Falls or the Khwe Living Museum to explore the history and culture of one of Namibia’s oldest tribes. We stayed at Divava Okavango Resort and Spa which is also located on the banks of the river where guests can appreciate incredible views from the comfort of their private decks or enjoy delicious cuisine and a relaxing spa treatment.
Moving into Botswana, a stop in the Okavango Panhandle region is a must. Being the main water source for the Okavango Delta, the area is well-known for mokoro excursions to the various islands, spotting wildlife and birdlife along the way and ending off with a picnic in the middle of nature on one of the islands along the water. We stayed at Nxamaseri Island Lodge uniquely located on a private island. This exclusive lodge sets the perfect atmosphere for a luxury safari experience. All the chalets are tucked into a forest canopy, giving guests the privacy to soak in all the nature surrounding them.
The next stop, Boteti River, is home to an abundance of nature and wildlife, and is also known for its proximity to the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park and the Makgadikgadi Basin, offering the bucket-list pans sleepout experience. We stayed at Leroo La Tau, which is located on the banks of the Boteti River bordering the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park. It is the water source for wildlife, making it the prime location from which to enjoy an armchair safari from the comfort of the lodges’ decks. Alternatively, guests can get up close in the game-viewing hide.
The extraordinary sleep out under the stars on the vast Makgadikgadi Salt Pan, described as a once-in-a-lifetime experience, was the highlight of our trip. The Makgadikgadi Salt Pan is one of the world’s largest salt flats, so remote that both sound and light pollution are non-existent. With nothing more than a bed between you and this vast expanse, there is no better place to find a deep sense of inner peace and tranquillity. The outstanding Leroo La Tau staff will prepare your ‘bedroll’ and a delicious bush menu will be traditionally prepared and cooked under the stars around an open fire.
Another notable experience is the Makgadikgadi helicopter ride. The two-hour excursion is available for booking from Leroo La Tau Lodge or as an extension of the sleep-out option. The scenic flights include a visit to Kubu Island, allowing for a chance to land and explore this mystical place featuring Gondwanaland rocks, huge baobab trees, and ancient remnants from civilizations of the past. Please note that a minimum three-night stay at Leroo La Tau Lodge is required for this experience, and what an experience it was!
A stopover in Nata is also a great location from which to visit the Makgadikgadi Pans or the Nata Bird Sanctuary - the breeding grounds for flamingoes and pelicans, a must-see for bird enthusiasts. The various concessions in the region also make for memorable game-viewing experiences. We stayed at Elephant Sands Lodge which is well-known for the abundance of elephant herds passing by the lodge to enjoy the watering hole. This lodge is a great option for elephant lovers who would appreciate the opportunity to see these gentle giants up close.
To finish off on the right note means a stay in Kasane, close enough to Kasane Airport, but also on the doorstep of the Chobe National Park where guests can enjoy game drives and boat cruises on the Chobe River. We stayed at Chobe Game Lodge which is one of our most popular accommodations for guests travelling from Victoria Falls directly into Botswana. The lodge has a deck overlooking the Chobe River and makes for the perfect sundowner spot, that is, if guests do not opt to enjoy their sundowners on a Chobe River boat cruise. This lodge is suitable for various kinds of travellers and boasts various spots and amenities on-site for guests to enjoy such as a spa, a boardwalk along the Chobe River and a pool, to name a few.
Reasons to consider this route:
-The route explores three countries, each offering diverse landscapes and activities.
-The roads are mainly tar and suitable for a self-drive experience with a 4x4.
-The remoteness of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, as well as the helicopter trip, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will never be forgotten.
We are excited to showcase this self-drive route! Contact us for expert travel guidance.
Until next time,
Your Terra Nova Team
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