Day 1 to 3: Kasane to Jackalberry Chobe – Botswana

Your Chobe and Victoria Falls Safari starts at Kasane Airport in Botswana. Here, you will be greeted and transferred a short distance to the beautiful Jackalberry Chobe luxury tented camp lying on the banks of the Chobe River.

On arrival, settle into your luxurious ensuite safari tent which will be home for the next three nights. Tuck into a delicious lunch/high tea at camp before heading out on your first game drive in Chobe National Park. Your knowledgeable guide will take you in search of the birds and animals of Chobe that cross your path. Chobe has 4 distinct areas, each area known for concentrations of specific animals – Savuti is famous for lion and hyena, Linyati for hippo and crocodile, and Nogatsaa and Serondella for elephant. Many other types of animals may be sighted, including the rare puku and Chobe bushbuck, and some 460 bird species, including raptors, vultures, and inland waterbirds. In the dry season, animals converge on the riverbanks, most notably huge herds of elephants and buffalos for which the park is famous.

Jackalberry camp lies on the banks of the Chobe River, its main area nestled under the shade of a majestic Jackalberry Tree. The next two days are spent as you choose. Set off early to explore the area on morning and afternoon game sighting activities – your choice of 4×4 safari game drives or game-viewing cruises along the river in Chobe National Park. Boat cruises on the Chobe River are a highlight, seeking out the many animals, including the famously large family groups of elephants that troop down to the river to drink and bathe. The boat allows you to drift close to the wildlife grazing or lazing on the lush river banks. Sunsets on the river are also spectacular.

Return to camp for a hearty meal and escape the heat of the day by the pool or watching the life on the river pass you by as you relax under the Jackalberry tree, or on your private deck, before your next activity. Spend your evenings in the serenity of your river setting as you recount tales of the day’s adventures.

• Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner x3
• Activities included: Airport Transfer, Safari Game Drives & Boat Cruises
• Optional activities (own expense): Victoria Falls Day Trip & Fishing

About Jackalberry Chobe

Jackalberry Chobe is located on the banks of the majestic Chobe River in Kasane, Botswana. Relax on the main deck under the shade of our majestic Jackalberry tree, soak up the sun at the infinity pool, indulge in gourmet meals or a drink in the outdoor lounge or bar as you unwind and absorb the sights and sounds of Chobe birds and wildlife as the river flows serenely by.

There are 16 luxury tents (twin or double configuration), with either river or bush-facing vistas, all with air conditioning, indoor showers, and baths. One is wheelchair friendly. An additional single bed can be added to any tent to accommodate children under 11 years with their parents. Experience the spectacular wildlife of Chobe National Park on game drives and boat cruises from camp.

Day 4 to 5: Sian Simba River Lodge, Victoria Falls – Zimbabwe

After breakfast, your Chobe and Victoria Falls Safari bids farewell to the Chobe riverbanks and a transfer will take you through the border post and on to Victoria Falls. Your next destination is the beautiful Sian Simba River Lodge situated on the banks of the Zambezi River, just upriver from the majestic Victoria Falls.

Settle into your luxury safari tent for the next two nights on safari in Zimbabwe. Once more your time is yours to spend as you wish, with a number of onsite activities available each day. Explore the pristine wilderness of Zambezi National Park on a safari game drive, or seek out the region’s rich birdlife, with highlights including the goliath heron and African skimmer. Boat cruises on the Zambezi River allow you to get close to riverine wildlife and is the perfect way to experience stunning Zambezi sunsets, while bush walks offer a thrilling, up-close connection to nature. You can also take a trip to view the falls from up close and experience for yourself why the locals refer to Victoria Falls as Mosi-oa-Tunya, ‘the smoke that thunders’. (Victoria Falls entrance fees not included).

There are a host of optional excursions for making the most of Victoria Falls, from scenic helicopter flights over Victoria Falls to thrilling adrenaline activities like bungee jumping or white-water rafting, fishing trips, and more. After the adventures of the day, retreat to camp to enjoy a serene drink beside the fireside.

• Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner x2
• Activities included: Safari Game Drives, Boat Cruises, Bush Walks, Victoria Falls visit (entrance fees not included)
• Optional activities (own expense): Victoria Falls Helicopter Scenic Flight, Bungee Jumping, White-Water rafting, Fishing excursion, and more

About Sian Simba River Lodge

Sian Simba River Lodge is a tented camp on the banks of the majestic Zambezi River, offering the perfect blend of bush adventure and proximity to the awe-inspiring beauty of Victoria Falls. With just 12 luxurious tents offering either twin or king beds and spectacular views of the river or surrounding bush, the lodge ensures an exclusive and relaxing stay. Families are well catered for with a dedicated family unit that accommodates up to five. Each unit features essential comforts like mosquito nets, free-standing fans, and en-suite bathrooms.

The main area of Sian Simba River Lodge boasts sweeping views of the river and the Sian Simba Pan, a hotspot for wildlife activity. Unwind at the infinity pool overlooking the Zambezi or indulge in gourmet meals at The Zambezi Spirit Restaurant or under the stars at the traditional Boma Dinner fireside braai (barbeque). For families and groups, the lodge offers fun activities like board games, putt-putt, and giant chess, ensuring everyone feels at home in this picturesque sanctuary.

Day 6: Sian Simba River Lodge to Victoria Falls Airport

After a leisurely breakfast, it is time to say farewell to the friendly camp staff as you are collected for a transfer to Victoria Falls airport to catch your onward flight. Here, your epic Chobe and Victoria Falls Safari comes to a close. (A drop off at Kasane airport is also possible at a small additional fee.)

• Meals included: Breakfast
• Activities included: Victoria Falls Airport transfer

Chobe & Victoria Falls Safari Notes

This Chobe & Victoria Falls Safari itinerary includes 3 nights at Jackalberry Chobe and 2 nights at Sian Simba River Lodge. You may also opt to rather spend 2 nights at Jackalberry Chobe and 3 nights at Sian Simba River Lodge instead. Simply ask your friendly travel consultant.

Chobe & Victoria Falls Safari Transfers

This Chobe & Victoria Falls Safari includes the following transfers:

• Kasane Airport to Jackalberry Chobe Camp
• Jackalberry Chobe to Kazangula border crossing and Sian Simba River Lodge
• Sian Simba River Lodge to Victoria Falls Airport

A transfer from Sian Simba River Lodge to Kasane town/airport is available at a small additional fee.

Lake Kariba Add-on – fully serviced Malachite houseboat

Enhance your holiday with an unforgettable 3-night, 4-day Lake Kariba houseboat adventure. As one of southern Africa’s largest man-made lakes, Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe offers relaxation, breathtaking sunrises & sunsets, and vibrant wildlife in the surrounding Matusadona National Park. Hop aboard the Malachite Cruise Boat, equipped with all the comforts you need for blissful days exploring the stunning expanse of Lake Kariba.

Spend your time soaking up the sun on the deck, go cruising, or take a tender boat excursion for game viewing along the shoreline, where elephants, hippos, and crocodiles roam freely. You can also try your hand at fishing – the warm waters of Lake Kariba are teeming with over 40 species of fish including the legendary tiger fish prized by anglers the world over. For an optional activity, step ashore for a guided drive or walk in Matusadona National Park to see the animals up close.

About the Malachite Cruise Boat

The Malachite Cruise Boat is a 60-foot pontoon vessel with two 200HP Outboard motors, expertly designed with all the comforts for exploring the stunning expanse of Lake Kariba. Fully staffed with a captain, a cook, and two deckhands, this exclusive houseboat offers unmatched adventure from the moment you step on board. Each of the six ensuite cabins is fully air-conditioned, providing the perfect retreat after a day of adventure on the water.

The Malachite has a covered top deck with seating and a dining area, for you to relax, take in the views, and feast on delicious meals prepared by your talented cook – in the fully equipped galley or outside on the gas braai (barbeque). The houseboat is equipped with a water filtration system and is solar-powered with a reliable backup generator, ensuring that your stay on board is seamless. Evenings on the houseboat are nothing short of magical. Unwind with a refreshing drink from the bar or soak in the jacuzzi as the sun sets over the serene waters of Lake Kariba. The boat has two tenders, a pontoon and a speedboat, for exciting excursions, fun and exploration.

Rates include accommodation on the fully staffed boat, return flights between Victoria Falls or Harare and Kariba, all meals, soft drinks, local beer, wine, and selected spirits, one guided drive/walk in Matusadona National Park (incl. Park fees), game viewing from the tender, fishing from the tender with basic fishing equipment, a visit to the Kariba dam wall, and 3 hours of cruising per day. Additional costs apply for premium brand drinks, laundry, staff gratuities and items of a personal nature.

The Kariba Houseboat add-on is available for a minimum of 2 people. Speak to our friendly travel consultants to discuss your options for a Lake Kariba houseboat add-on.

For more details contact African Budget Safaris