Experience the best of Southern Africa on this epic 17-day overland adventure through South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe. Explore wildlife in Kruger National Park, navigate through the Okavango Delta in a traditional mokoro canoe, experience the majesty of Victoria Falls and track rhinos in Matobo National Park. This fully guided camping adventure combines unforgettable safari experiences, incredible landscapes and authentic cultural moments with a fun group of like-minded travellers.
OVERLAND ADVENTURE!
This is a small-group (maximum of 22 people) overland adventure through Southern Africa with a strong focus on wildlife, national parks and unforgettable shared experiences. Transport, accommodation and key safari activities are organised for you, with a mix of camping, bush stays and overland travel through some of Africa’s most iconic destinations. Expect early morning game drives, epic sunsets, remote wilderness experiences and a fun group atmosphere as you journey through South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe together.
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Touch down in Jo’burg (as the locals call it) where your adventure begins. The welcome meeting is planned at 6pm, so there is enough time to explore the city if you arrive early. After the meeting, there is time to get to know your fellow travellers during a group dinner. The leader will recommend the best local bars and restaurants. Time for adventure!
Accommodation : Hotel Style (or similar)
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After breakfast, you’ll leave South Africa and cross the border into Botswana and travel to the Khama Rhino Sanctuary. In this area live protected black and white rhino populations, but there is also a chance to see zebras, giraffes, leopards and ostriches. When the sun begins to set, we’ll see the rhinos at their most active!
Accommodation: Camping with facilities (or similar)
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Get up nice and early to drive to Maun. This town is the gateway to one of the world’s most renowned and complex ecosystems – the Okavango Delta. You might see hippos, crocodiles, elephants and big cats within the diverse ecosystem here. Take a scenic flight of this incredible landscape and see the maze of wetlands made up of waterways and green islands (optional).
Accommodation: Camping with facilities (or similar)
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Today we’ll head out to the north-western part of the Okavango Delta, close to the Pan Handle. For the last 12 km to the campsite, we’ll use a 4WD! Set up camp and relax on the edge of the water for the rest of the afternoon. This accommodation for the next two days is far away from any light pollution, so perfect for watching the sky full of stars. On the second day, your guide will glide you through calm waterways in a mokoro (traditional canoe). Spot wild animals on a quick bush walk and we’ll stop at one of the islands for a swim before returning to camp.
Accommodation: Camping with basic facilities (or similar)
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Travel back to Maun after breakfast. Today is perfect to relax and take some rest. If you want, there are some optional activities you can do in this area. But most important, get ready for the rest of your adventure!
Accommodation: Camping with facilities (or similar)
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This morning, we’ll drive to Gweta. This small town is near the stunning Makdadikgadi Salt Pans, which are one of the largest on Earth. We’ll head out on a Sundowner Bush Walk with a local guide. Learn about the local ecology, geology and biology of the largest succulent in the world. Watch the Botswana sunset by the campfire and enjoy this incredible place.
Accommodation: Camping with facilities (or similar)
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Start the day early as you travel to Chobe National Park, one of Africa’s most wildlife-rich safari destinations. Spend the afternoon relaxing or choose from optional experiences like a sunset river cruise or game drive, with the chance to spot huge elephant herds, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, lions and countless other animals.
Accommodation: Camping with facilities (or similar)
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Your last morning in Botswana before heading to Zimbabwe. We’ll arrive in Victoria Falls in the early afternoon, so there is enough time to enjoy some free time. At 6 pm tonight you’ll meet a new group of members who will join you on the second half of your adventure. The day after, you’ll arrive at the world-famous Victoria Falls, one of the most spectacular natural wonders on the planet. After an orientation walk with your tour leader, enjoy free time to experience the falls and choose from a range of optional adventure activities. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Zimbabwean dinner and cultural performance featuring local music, dance and authentic regional dishes while learning more about Zimbabwean culture and community projects.
Accommodation: Camping with facilities (or similar)
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Leave Victoria Falls behind and head to Hwange National Park. Here we’ll explore this stunning area in an open 4×4 vehicle. It is the home of a massive selection of wildlife, with over 100 species of mammals, nearly 400 bird species and one of the largest elephant populations in Africa.
Accommodation: Camping with facilities (or similar)
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Travel south towards Matobo National Park with a short stop in Bulawayo, known for its historic colonial-style architecture, before arriving at camp for the next two nights. Famous for its rhino population, dramatic granite landscapes and cultural significance, Matobo offers incredible wildlife and history experiences. The second day is a free day. Visiting the Matobo Hills is highly recommended.
Accommodation: Camping with facilities (or similar)
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This morning, you’ll leave Zimbabwe and cross the border with South Africa. This morning, cross from Zimbabwe back into South Africa before continuing towards your campsite near the beautiful Honnet Nature Reserve. Arriving in the afternoon, you’ll have time to relax and enjoy the campsite facilities, including swimming pools, walking trails and peaceful natural surroundings.
Accommodation: Camping with facilities (or similar)
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After breakfast, time to head out to Kruger National Park. This world-famous park is well-known for its iconic Big Five. Try to spot them all on your way to your campsite for the night.
Accommodation: Camping with facilities (or similar)
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Today, a full-day 4WD safari through Kruger National Park is planned. You’ll drive through the stunning landscapes and see all animals in their natural habitat. Probably one of the highlights of your trip!
Accommodation: Camping with facilities (or similar)
To make your booking, select your chosen departure date and any optional extras you would like to book. If you are unsure about optional extras or if you need additional accommodation before or after your tour, you can let us know later via email.
We'll send you a booking confirmation as well as important information about your tour. You can make payments on your tour balance sooner, or regularly, via our website here. A non refundable 5.25% booking processing fee applies to each booking, calculated on the value of your booking.
Travelling solo? Great! Most of the people you meet on tour will also be on a solo adventure! If you are curious as to who you could be travelling with, or want to make some friends before arriving, join our Travel Community and reach out to your potential new travel mates!
Booking with ULTIMATE is easy! We take payments securely via Mastercard or Visa Credit and Debit Card and we will charge you in Australian Currency (AUD). Your deposit is flexible and if you can no longer travel, you can save your deposit for a later trip or destination if you notify us 30 days before your scheduled tour date.
Making your booking is easy. Choose a date below, and if you have any questions about extras, deposits, or meeting other travellers, just get in touch — we're happy to help.
Where does the tour start and finish?
The South Africa Adventure tour starts and finishes in Johannesburg. On day 17 you will have a long travel day back to Johannesburg. Book your flight not before 10pm to allow for delays and transfers to the airport.
Who will I be travelling with?
Whether you’re travelling solo or with friends, you’ll meet like-minded travellers from all over the world along the way. Group sizes are kept social yet personal, with a maximum of 22 travellers per tour, creating a fun atmosphere while still allowing for a more connected group experience.
Do I need vaccinations?
Vaccinations are not compulsory for this trip, but some are strongly recommended depending on your travel history and personal circumstances. Travellers should consult their doctor or travel clinic before departure for the latest advice on recommended vaccinations and malaria prevention for Southern Africa. Some countries visited on this trip may require proof of a yellow fever vaccination if you are arriving from or have recently travelled through a yellow fever risk country. It’s your responsibility to check the latest entry requirements before travelling.
Can I book extra nights?
Yes, extra accommodation before or after the tour can usually be arranged.
Do I need a visa?
Visa requirements for this trip depend on your nationality and the countries you are travelling through, as this tour visits South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe. Some travellers may require single or multiple-entry visas, while others may be eligible for visas on arrival. It’s your responsibility to check the latest visa and entry requirements with the relevant embassies or consulates before travelling, including passport validity requirements and any transit visa rules.
Can I bring a 25kg suitcase?
We strongly recommend travelling with a soft backpack or duffel bag rather than a large hard suitcase, as space in the overland safari vehicle is limited. A bag around 15–20kg is ideal for this trip. While a 25kg suitcase may technically be allowed, it can be difficult to store and manage during the tour, especially when camping and moving between remote locations regularly. Travellers should also pack light enough to comfortably carry and manage their own luggage throughout the trip.
Can you cater for dietary requirements?
Most dietary requirements can be catered for on this trip, including vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free diets, provided they are advised in advance at the time of booking. Please keep in mind that food options can be more limited in remote areas and during camping sections of the tour, particularly in national parks and wilderness regions across Southern Africa.
Can you help me organise flights & insurance?
Sure! We recommend searching and comparing flight prices using Skyscanner.com to find the best option for your trip – get a flight quote. Find the best insurance policy for your Ultimate adventure with the help of our recommended travel insurance provider.
How physical is the tour?
A moderate level of fitness is recommended for this trip. While no extreme fitness is required, travellers should be comfortable with camping, some long travel days, early starts and helping with basic camp setup throughout the adventure.
Can I upgrade to a private room?
On selected nights there may be opportunities to upgrade from camping to a private room or cabin, subject to availability and payable locally. Upgrade options usually cost approximately USD $40–100 per room per night for a twin room, however standards and facilities can vary greatly depending on the location. Please note that private room upgrades cannot be guaranteed or pre-booked before departure.
695-699 George Street.
Sydney, NSW 2000
ABN: 91 133 215 166
