AFRICA BEYOND BORDERS

Okavango, Caprivi, Liuwa, (Botswana, Namibia, Zambia)

AFRICA BEYOND BORDERS

This safari offers a thrilling adventure through some of Africa’s most remote and pristine wildernesses, perfect for the intrepid traveler. With basic camping accommodations, you’ll immerse yourself fully in nature, experiencing untouched landscapes and diverse wildlife up close. From the serene waterways of the Okavango Panhandle to the vast plains of Liuwa, each destination provides unique encounters and raw beauty. This journey is an ideal choice for those seeking an authentic, soul-stirring expedition with a focus on adventure and exploration and mesmerizing wildlife encounters.

Price: From 6’000.- CHF per person

Trip Highlights

Okavango Panhandle, Botswana

The Okavango Panhandle is a tranquil and less-touristy part of the Okavango Delta, respectively before the delta, known for its rich birdlife with over 400 species. The area is characterized by narrow waterways and dense papyrus swamps, offering intimate wildlife experiences. Traditional fishing villages along the banks provide cultural insights into the local way of life. A boat ride through the Panhandle’s channels offers close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. Camping by the river ensures a serene experience, immersed in the sounds of the African bush.

Mahango Game Reserve, Namibia

Located on the edge of the Caprivi Strip, Mahango Game Reserve is a hidden gem rich in wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, and rare antelope species such as roan and sable. The landscape features riverine forests and floodplains, providing stunning photographic opportunities. The reserve is also a great place to learn about the local Mbukushu culture. Camping near the river enhances the experience, offering peaceful evenings surrounded by nature.

Bwabwata National Park, Namibia

Bwabwata National Park is a unique "people’s park" where wildlife conservation and community development coexist. The park is vital for the migration of elephants and buffalo, and it hosts a variety of habitats, including riverine forests and floodplains. The park's birdlife is diverse, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Camping in Bwabwata provides a truly wild experience.

Katima Mulilo, Namibia

Katima Mulilo is a vibrant town on the banks of the Zambezi River, serving as a gateway to Zambia. The town is a cultural melting pot with influences from various ethnic groups, such as the Lozi and Subiya. The nearby Zambezi River is just another prime spot for birdwatching and offers stunning sunset views. The local markets are lively, offering traditional crafts and a taste of the region's cultural diversity. Zambezi Mubala Camp, located on the riverbank, is an ideal place to stay, providing basic amenities and beautiful river views.

Ngonye River Camp, Zambia

On the journey to Liuwa Plains, Ngonye River Camp near the Ngonye Falls offers a beautiful stopover. The camp provides basic facilities and is located near the stunning Ngonye Falls, often referred to as a smaller yet equally impressive counterpart to Victoria Falls. This is a perfect spot to rest, explore the falls, and enjoy the serene surroundings of the Zambezi River.

Liuwa Plains National Park, Zambia

Liuwa Plains is one of Africa’s most remote and pristine wilderness areas, famous for its wildebeest migration and large hyena population. The park's vast, open grasslands provide a stark yet beautiful landscape, ideal for wildlife photography. Liuwa also has a rich cultural history tied to the Lozi people, who have a strong connection to the land. The park’s isolation ensures a truly wild experience, with few other visitors. Camping under the vast African sky in Liuwa is a highlight of the journey, offering an immersive experience in one of the continent's most untouched areas.

Barotse Floodplain, Zambia

The Barotse Floodplain, located between Liuwa Plains and Kafue National Park, is an expansive wetland area crucial to the Lozi people's agriculture. The floodplain is famous for the annual Kuomboka ceremony (wich will be earlier in the year) and offers stunning scenery and unique cultural insights. The area provides an authentic look at traditional lifestyles and is a perfect spot to break the journey. Wild camping along the Kafue River near the floodplain offers a peaceful and scenic overnight experience.

Kafue National Park, Zambia

Kafue National Park is one of Africa’s largest and most diverse parks, known for its variety of habitats, from the swampy Busanga Plains to dense miombo woodlands. The park is home to a wide range of wildlife, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, and various antelope species. The Busanga Plains are particularly renowned for excellent game viewing, especially during the dry season. Birdwatching is also superb, with over 500 species recorded in the park. Camping in Kafue offers an exclusive and remote experience, with opportunities to see wildlife up close in a spectacular natural setting.

Lusaka, Zambia

Lusaka, Zambia's capital, offers a contrast! Zambias capital with bustling markets and vibrant urban life will mark out the end of this adventurous journey. The city is a cultural hub, with several museums and cultural centers that provide insights into Zambia's history and traditions. The local markets are perfect for buying souvenirs and experiencing the city's lively atmosphere. Lusaka is the ideal place to reflect on the adventure before heading home, offering a mix of relaxation and cultural exploration.

Why choose this trip?

This safari is a journey into some of Africa’s most untouched and remote wildernesses, offering an adventure that few ever experience. Traveling through Botswana, Namibia, and Zambia, you’ll witness the raw beauty of nature in its purest form, from the tranquil waterways of the Okavango Panhandle to the vast, open plains of Liuwa. Each day brings new encounters with wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich cultures, all while camping under star-filled skies in some of the most secluded parts of the continent. This isn’t just a safari; it’s an immersive, soul-stirring expedition that will leave you with memories and stories to treasure for a lifetime.

Climate & Weather

In August, the Caprivi Strip, Liuwa Plains, and Kafue National Park experience dry, cool conditions. The Caprivi Strip has daytime highs of 20-30°C and cool nights around 12°C, with no to minimal rainfall focusing wildlife around water sources. Liuwa Plains sees warm days (25-35°C) and cooler nights (15°C), and the dry landscape draws predators into view. Kafue National Park has similar temperatures, with daytime highs of 25-35°C and cooler nights, making wildlife and birdwatching excellent as animals gather around water sources. Overall, the dry weather makes August a prime time for vivid wildlife encounters and bird sightings.

Prices and Inclusions

Included

Private Guide Ananda Geissberger: Experienced guide for your entire journey.
Activities and Park Fees: All experiences described in the itinerary and entrance fees for national parks.
Accommodations: Comfortable rooftop tent camping
Luxury Toyota Land Cruiser (Overlander Vehicle): Specially equipped vehicle for your adventure.
Meals: Full board, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Snacks and Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Refreshments during excursions.
Professional Photos: High-quality, professional photos as souvenirs of your journey.

Not included

Flights: Flights to Maun and from Lusaka are not included.
Insurance: Travel and health insurance must be purchased separately.
Alcoholic Beverages: Drinks beyond the included non-alcoholic beverages.
Tips: Gratuities for guides, hotel staff, and other service providers are not included.
Visa: Visa for Zambia on arrival 50.00 USD / Most nationalities don’t need a for Namibia/Botswana.

The exact itinerary and activities will be tailored to your preferences. The listed price serves as a guideline. Dates and duration can only be adjusted to a limited extent. After considering your preferences, you will receive a detailed offer tailored to your budget and requirements.