Desert to Falls Explorer: Cape Town, Namibia & Botswana
From
$40000
Desert to Falls Explorer: Cape Town, Namibia & Botswana
From
$40000
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Overview
13 days to explore South Africa, Namibia and Botswana
Embark on a trans-frontier odyssey that journeys from South Africa's coastal metropolis to Namibia's towering dunes, onward to Zambia's Victoria Falls and Botswana's wildlife-rich Chobe. Begin with three nights in cosmopolitan Cape Town, soaking up Table Mountain vistas, Cape Point's dramatic cliffs and penguin-filled beaches. Fly north to Swakopmund on Namibia's Skeleton Coast for desert adventures and German colonial charm, then venture deeper into the Namib to Sossusvlei, where orange dunes and stark pan landscapes set the scene for sunrise climbs and hot-air balloon rides. After a city stop in Johannesburg, continue to Zambia for sunset cruises on the Zambezi and a guided tour of the mighty Victoria Falls. Conclude with two nights in Chobe National Park, home to Africa's largest elephant herds and unforgettable safari experiences.
Bespoke Journeys with Travel Republic Africa
Each journey in the Travel Republic Africa Signature Collection can be fully customised to your preferences. From private safaris to curated culinary escapes, our experts craft bespoke African experiences designed to inspire and connect you to the continent's heart.
Each journey in the Travel Republic Africa Signature Collection can be fully customised to your preferences. From private safaris to curated culinary escapes, our experts craft bespoke African experiences designed to inspire and connect you to the continent's heart.
Inclusions
What's included
- Accommodation on a bed-and-breakfast basis in Cape Town, Swakopmund, Johannesburg and Victoria Falls: Westin Cape Town or *Portswood Hotel, Swakopmund Hotel & Entertainment Centre, Hilton Sandton or Park Inn Sandton, and Royal Livingstone Hotel* or Avani Victoria Falls Resort*
- Full-board stays at Sossusvlei Desert Lodge and *Chobe Game Lodge or *Cresta Mowana Lodge** with lodge activities included
- All listed excursions and safaris with qualified English-speaking guides: City & Table Mountain tour, Cape Point tour, Swakopmund optional excursions, desert activities in Sossusvlei, Zambezi River sunset cruise, guided Victoria Falls tour and Chobe game drives and boat cruises
- Scheduled flights: Cape Town → Walvis Bay; Walvis Bay → Sossusvlei; Sossusvlei → Johannesburg; Johannesburg → Livingstone (return); plus inter-camp flights and transfers between lodges
- All transfers within South Africa, Namibia, Zambia and Botswana as per itinerary, including park fees and entrance fees
- One lunch on the Cape Point tour; sundowners and snacks on the Zambezi River cruise
Exclusions
What's Excluded
- International flights to Cape Town and from Johannesburg
- Medical insurance and visa costs for Namibia, Zambia and Botswana
- Optional activities not listed (Winelands tours, shark-cage diving, helicopter flips, hot-air ballooning, microlight flights, bungee jumping, Livingstone Island tours, quad-biking, Lion Park tour, Johannesburg city tour)
- Drinks (except those included on lodge activities), gratuities and personal expenses
Itinerary at a Glance
Route & Nights
- Cape Town – 3 nights
- Swakopmund – 2 nights
- Sossusvlei – 2 nights
- Johannesburg – 1 night
- Victoria Falls – 2 nights
- Chobe National Park – 2 nights
Highlights
Table Mountain; Cape Point & Boulders Beach; optional Winelands & shark-cage diving | Westin Cape Town or *Portswood Hotel
German colonial architecture; beaches; kayaking, dolphin cruises, scenic flights | Swakopmund Hotel & Entertainment Centre
Namib Desert dunes; Deadvlei & Sesriem Canyon; hot-air ballooning & quad-biking | Sossusvlei Desert Lodge*
Overnight stop; optional Lion Park or city tour | Hilton Sandton or *Park Inn Sandton
- Sunset cruise on the Zambezi River; guided tour of Victoria Falls; optional helicopter & bungee | Royal Livingstone Hotel or *Avani Victoria Falls Resort
- Riverboat safaris; 4×4 game drives; prolific elephants and birdlife | Chobe Game Lodge or *Cresta Mowana Lodge
Days 1 - 11
South Africa to Namibia and Botswana
Day 1 – Arrival in Cape Town
Arrive at Cape Town International Airport, where a Travel Republic Africa representative will escort you to your hotel – the Westin Cape Town or *Portswood Hotel****. After settling in on a bed-and-breakfast basis, your afternoon includes a City & Table Mountain tour. Ride the cable car up the iconic flat-topped peak (weather permitting) and enjoy sweeping views of Table Bay and Robben Island. Later, explore landmarks such as Company Gardens, the Castle of Good Hope, South African Museum and Greenmarket Square.
Day 2 – Cape Point Peninsula Tour
Spend a full day exploring the Cape Peninsula. Drive along the Atlantic Seaboard past Sea Point, Clifton and Camps Bay to Hout Bay for a boat trip to Seal Island (weather permitting). Continue along Chapman's Peak Drive into the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, home to unique fynbos flora and dramatic coastal scenery. After lunch in Simon's Town, visit the African penguin colony at Boulders Beach before returning to Cape Town.
Day 3 – Cape Town at Leisure
Enjoy a free day to discover Cape Town at your own pace. Relax on Clifton's beaches, shop at the V&A Waterfront or join optional excursions such as a Winelands tasting tour, white-shark cage diving or a helicopter flip over the peninsula. Your hotel concierge can arrange personalised experiences.
Day 4 – Cape Town → Swakopmund (Namibia)
Transfer to Cape Town airport and fly to Walvis Bay, Namibia. Swakopmund, a charming coastal town with German colonial architecture, offers beaches, a historic lighthouse, museums and adrenaline-fueled activities like quad-biking and skydiving. A local representative will escort you to the Swakopmund Hotel & Entertainment Centre or similar on a bed-and-breakfast basis. Spend the afternoon exploring or relaxing.
Day 5 – Swakopmund Activities
Enjoy a full day at leisure in Swakopmund. Choose from kayaking among seals, dolphin cruises, scenic flights along the Skeleton Coast or a 4×4 excursion to Sandwich Harbour. Alternatively, stroll through town, visit the Swakopmund Museum or unwind on the beach.
Day 6 – Swakopmund → Sossusvlei
Fly by light aircraft to Sossusvlei in the heart of the Namib Desert. This salt and clay pan is surrounded by some of the world's tallest red sand dunes, creating a photographer's paradise. Transfer to Sossusvlei Desert Lodge*** (full board with lodge activities). In the afternoon, join your first desert activity—perhaps a sundowner drive through the dunes.
Day 7 – Sossusvlei – Dunes & Desert Adventures
Spend the day exploring Sossusvlei's surreal landscapes. Climb "Big Daddy" dune at dawn to witness the desert sunrise, then visit Deadvlei's ghostly camelthorn trees and hike Sesriem Canyon. Optional activities include hot-air ballooning, quad-biking and 4×4 excursions across the dunes. Return to the lodge for dinner under the stars.
Day 8 – Sossusvlei → Johannesburg
After breakfast, transfer to the airstrip and fly to Walvis Bay to connect with your flight to Johannesburg. A Travel Republic Africa representative will greet you and escort you to your hotel, either Hilton Sandton or *Park Inn Sandton, on a bed-and-breakfast basis. The remainder of the day is free to explore the city's restaurants or relax.
Day 9 – Johannesburg → Victoria Falls (Zambia)
This morning fly from OR Tambo International Airport to Livingstone in Zambia. Upon arrival, transfer to your chosen hotel—Royal Livingstone Hotel or *Avani Victoria Falls Resort—located within walking distance of the falls. In the late afternoon embark on a Zambezi River sunset cruise, sipping sundowners and watching for crocodiles, hippos, elephants and diverse birdlife along the riverbank.
Day 10 – Victoria Falls & Optional Adventures
Join a guided morning tour of Victoria Falls, the world's largest sheet of falling water and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Learn about its geology and local legends, then spend the afternoon at leisure. Optional activities include scenic helicopter or microlight flights, bungee jumping from the bridge, rafting the Zambezi or visiting Livingstone Island.
Day 11 – Victoria Falls → Chobe National Park (Botswana)
After breakfast, drive approximately one hour across the border into Botswana and continue to Chobe National Park, renowned for its vast elephant herds. Check into Chobe Game Lodge or *Cresta Mowana Lodge** on a full-board basis with lodge activities. Head out on an afternoon game drive or boat cruise along the Chobe River, encountering elephants, hippos, buffalo and diverse bird species.
Day 12 – Chobe National Park Safaris
Spend a full day enjoying the lodge's activities at Chobe. Dawn and dusk game drives showcase predators and plains game, while mid-day boat cruises provide up-close views of elephants and antelope swimming or drinking at the river's edge. Capture unforgettable photographs as fish eagles swoop overhead and crocodiles bask on the banks.
Day 13 – Chobe → Johannesburg & Departure
After one last morning activity, transfer to Victoria Falls Airport for your flight to Johannesburg. Connect with your outbound flight home, taking with you vivid memories of deserts, waterfalls and abundant wildlife.
Arrive at Cape Town International Airport, where a Travel Republic Africa representative will escort you to your hotel – the Westin Cape Town or *Portswood Hotel****. After settling in on a bed-and-breakfast basis, your afternoon includes a City & Table Mountain tour. Ride the cable car up the iconic flat-topped peak (weather permitting) and enjoy sweeping views of Table Bay and Robben Island. Later, explore landmarks such as Company Gardens, the Castle of Good Hope, South African Museum and Greenmarket Square.
Day 2 – Cape Point Peninsula Tour
Spend a full day exploring the Cape Peninsula. Drive along the Atlantic Seaboard past Sea Point, Clifton and Camps Bay to Hout Bay for a boat trip to Seal Island (weather permitting). Continue along Chapman's Peak Drive into the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, home to unique fynbos flora and dramatic coastal scenery. After lunch in Simon's Town, visit the African penguin colony at Boulders Beach before returning to Cape Town.
Day 3 – Cape Town at Leisure
Enjoy a free day to discover Cape Town at your own pace. Relax on Clifton's beaches, shop at the V&A Waterfront or join optional excursions such as a Winelands tasting tour, white-shark cage diving or a helicopter flip over the peninsula. Your hotel concierge can arrange personalised experiences.
Day 4 – Cape Town → Swakopmund (Namibia)
Transfer to Cape Town airport and fly to Walvis Bay, Namibia. Swakopmund, a charming coastal town with German colonial architecture, offers beaches, a historic lighthouse, museums and adrenaline-fueled activities like quad-biking and skydiving. A local representative will escort you to the Swakopmund Hotel & Entertainment Centre or similar on a bed-and-breakfast basis. Spend the afternoon exploring or relaxing.
Day 5 – Swakopmund Activities
Enjoy a full day at leisure in Swakopmund. Choose from kayaking among seals, dolphin cruises, scenic flights along the Skeleton Coast or a 4×4 excursion to Sandwich Harbour. Alternatively, stroll through town, visit the Swakopmund Museum or unwind on the beach.
Day 6 – Swakopmund → Sossusvlei
Fly by light aircraft to Sossusvlei in the heart of the Namib Desert. This salt and clay pan is surrounded by some of the world's tallest red sand dunes, creating a photographer's paradise. Transfer to Sossusvlei Desert Lodge*** (full board with lodge activities). In the afternoon, join your first desert activity—perhaps a sundowner drive through the dunes.
Day 7 – Sossusvlei – Dunes & Desert Adventures
Spend the day exploring Sossusvlei's surreal landscapes. Climb "Big Daddy" dune at dawn to witness the desert sunrise, then visit Deadvlei's ghostly camelthorn trees and hike Sesriem Canyon. Optional activities include hot-air ballooning, quad-biking and 4×4 excursions across the dunes. Return to the lodge for dinner under the stars.
Day 8 – Sossusvlei → Johannesburg
After breakfast, transfer to the airstrip and fly to Walvis Bay to connect with your flight to Johannesburg. A Travel Republic Africa representative will greet you and escort you to your hotel, either Hilton Sandton or *Park Inn Sandton, on a bed-and-breakfast basis. The remainder of the day is free to explore the city's restaurants or relax.
Day 9 – Johannesburg → Victoria Falls (Zambia)
This morning fly from OR Tambo International Airport to Livingstone in Zambia. Upon arrival, transfer to your chosen hotel—Royal Livingstone Hotel or *Avani Victoria Falls Resort—located within walking distance of the falls. In the late afternoon embark on a Zambezi River sunset cruise, sipping sundowners and watching for crocodiles, hippos, elephants and diverse birdlife along the riverbank.
Day 10 – Victoria Falls & Optional Adventures
Join a guided morning tour of Victoria Falls, the world's largest sheet of falling water and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Learn about its geology and local legends, then spend the afternoon at leisure. Optional activities include scenic helicopter or microlight flights, bungee jumping from the bridge, rafting the Zambezi or visiting Livingstone Island.
Day 11 – Victoria Falls → Chobe National Park (Botswana)
After breakfast, drive approximately one hour across the border into Botswana and continue to Chobe National Park, renowned for its vast elephant herds. Check into Chobe Game Lodge or *Cresta Mowana Lodge** on a full-board basis with lodge activities. Head out on an afternoon game drive or boat cruise along the Chobe River, encountering elephants, hippos, buffalo and diverse bird species.
Day 12 – Chobe National Park Safaris
Spend a full day enjoying the lodge's activities at Chobe. Dawn and dusk game drives showcase predators and plains game, while mid-day boat cruises provide up-close views of elephants and antelope swimming or drinking at the river's edge. Capture unforgettable photographs as fish eagles swoop overhead and crocodiles bask on the banks.
Day 13 – Chobe → Johannesburg & Departure
After one last morning activity, transfer to Victoria Falls Airport for your flight to Johannesburg. Connect with your outbound flight home, taking with you vivid memories of deserts, waterfalls and abundant wildlife.
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"Exceptional Service, Patient & Problem Solver"
Jonny provides personalized service, and goes the extra mile. We travelled to CT as a group of 14 over the Easter break and he really went above and beyond to make sure our trip went smoothly...coming up with solutions when we had hiccups around visas and payments, and ensuring that we were happy. He also supported us in getting a house and organizing transport. He was patient and friendly, especially when we needed to sort out visas and payments. Thanks Jonny, and we look forward to working with you on our next trip!
Sheila K
"Memorable Experience"
Everything was organized to perfection! Jonny and his team made our stay and trip beyond memorable and I can’t recommend them enough. All our wishes were met and Jonny was quick to adjust the trip to our needs.
Simon W
"Amazing trip!"
Johnny has been amazing! He has an incredible vibe and made us know the beautiful Cape Town. We are so happy and grateful to meet him and hope to come back!
Pedro José D
"Amazing time with my 40 colleagues in Cape Town!"
Had an amazing time with my 39 colleagues visiting the most beautiful places in Cape Town. Jonny's hospitality was great, he's such a a warm guide!! Hope to be able to come very soon!
Agus
"You are beautiful, Cape Town! You were amazing, Johnny!"
We went on a tour around Cape Town, and Johnny was hands-on throughout the entire duration of our stay, making sure everything went smoothly. He was not only knowledgeable about the sights and history of the area but also super attentive when it came to making sure we captured all the special moments—especially during the picture-taking! 😂 His enthusiasm and friendly personality made the whole trip even more enjoyable. Highly recommend him to anyone looking for a fun and insightful tour!
RAELA
"Best tour in Cape Town! We love Johnny!"
Johnny was amazing and we had the best time in Cape Town! No other agency can compare! Travel republic Africa is the ONLY one!!! Unforgettable, seamless, and perfect experience!!!
Departure16936876609
"An unforgettable trip and an incredible African experience"
Travel Republic Africa crafted an unforgettable adventure for us. It was a fantastic African tour experience. Shout out to Jonny for being so friendly and attentive. It was like having a local friend rather than a guide. Thank you so much. We'll definitely be coming back from Canada.
Vacation08606160825
"Everything went smoothly due to Jonathan"
Jonathan was an excellent arranger of our tour. He was very on top of things, knew a lot and cared a lot! A no brainer to use him again!
Gordon M
"10/10 South Africa (Cape Town) Experience"
First out of the country trip for me and it was very memorable. Our tour guide johnny was very hospitable and made the whole trip very smooth. He even gave us tokens after the trip!! When I go back, I know for sure who to contact.
Anthony Joseph C
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As Seen On
Destinations
Swakopmund Hotel & Entertainment Centre
A grand hotel housed in the beautifully restored, historic former railway station in the coastal town of Swakopmund.
Highlights
- Unique architecture as a preserved National Monument that was once a railway station
- Features a sophisticated casino and entertainment complex on site
- Provides an ideal base for exploring the Namib Desert and the Skeleton Coast
&Beyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge
An architectural marvel blending cutting-edge design with desert stillness.
Highlights
- Infinity desert views
- Glass villas with skylights
- Fine dining and curated wine cellar
- Stargazing and guided drives
Royal Livingstone Hotel
A colonial-era landmark perched on the banks of the Zambezi River, the Royal Livingstone combines Edwardian elegance with breathtaking views of the Falls’ spray.
Highlights
- Prime riverside setting steps from Victoria Falls
- Vintage décor with modern comforts
- Sunset terrace overlooking the Zambezi
- Fine dining and polished service
Avani Victoria Falls
A vibrant, African-walled village inspired hotel with a lively atmosphere, located just a short stroll from the Eastern Cataract of the Falls.
Highlights
- Free, unlimited access to the magnificent Victoria Falls is included for guests
- The location attracts local wildlife, including zebras and giraffes, on the hotel grounds
- Features a large, landscaped pool area and lively themed dining options
Chobe Game Lodge
The only permanent lodge within Chobe National Park, it has 44 rooms and four suites overlooking the Chobe River. The lodge is noted for its all‑electric safari boats and game‑drive vehicles and is fully wheelchair‑friendly
Highlights
- Riverside sanctuary
- Lavish rooms and suites
- Thrilling wildlife encounters
Water‑based safari adventures
Park Inn Sandton
A modern and stylish hotel offering a convenient stay in the heart of Johannesburg’s thriving business and financial district.
Highlights
- Located in a prime position, close to the Sandton Convention Centre and Sandton City Mall
- Features a vibrant outdoor swimming pool and sun deck
- Offers complimentary shuttle service within the local Sandton area
The Westin Cape Town
A modern landmark near the Waterfront offering panoramic harbour and mountain views, sleek design, and outstanding wellness facilities.
Highlights
- Prime location with Table Mountain views
- Heavenly Spa and indoor infinity pool
- Contemporary rooms and suites
- Professional and attentive service
The Portswood Hotel
A charming hotel built around the original holding cells of the convict station and Port Captain’s office, set near Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront.
Highlights
- Situated on the original site of the old Portswood Convict Station
- Located right next to the vibrant V&A Waterfront in Cape Town
- Offers a complimentary shuttle service to nearby attractions
Cresta Mowana Safari Lodge
A large, full-service safari resort built around an ancient Baobab tree on the banks of the Chobe River near Kasane.
Highlights
- Situated on the riverbank, providing excellent views of the Chobe River and wildlife
- Offers a wide range of activities, including river cruises and game drives in Chobe
- Features a luxury spa and a nine-hole golf course
