The Ultimate Belmond Luxury African Safari: Botswana and Victoria Falls
Experience the ultimate in luxury with Belmond lodges and camps with thrilling game drives and breathtaking scenery of Botswana and Victoria Falls on this 11-day luxury private safari for two. Begin your adventure with a stay at the historic Victoria Falls Hotel with an unforgettable helicopter flight over the falls. Explore the rich diverse wildlife of Botswana with daily game drives in three of the region’s best game reserves and national parks including the world-famous Chobe National Park, home to Africa’s largest elephant population, the Moremi Game Reserve where you will come face to face with some of the world’s most endangered species, and the incredible Okavango Delta wetlands, a lush Eden teeming with life. Enjoy unparalleled five-star indulgence with all-inclusive stays at Belmond lodges throughout Botswana, a name synonymous with the ultimate luxury safari experience.
Make your African safari dreams come true on this stunning private 11-day tour for two beginning with an unforgettable helicopter flight over Zimbabwe ’s Victoria Falls and thrilling game drives in Botswana’s Chobe National Park, Moremi Game Reserve and the Okavango Delta.
The Hotels – All-inclusive Belmond safari luxury and stunning five-star old-world charm overlooking Victoria Falls
Make your experience even more memorable with spectacular accommodation throughout. Stay in famed Belmond comfort in dedicated safari lodges during your time in Botswana. The Belmond group is renowned worldwide for its ultra-luxurious hotels, impeccable service and once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences. Enjoy all-inclusive drinks and dining throughout your stay, feasting on gourmet cuisine, crafted using local ingredients - a foodie experience to truly savour. Pair your meals with a wide range of fine wines and high-quality spirits - all included in this once-in-a-lifetime tour.
The Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge in Chobe National Park keeps you immersed within your natural surroundings while also offering unparalleled standards of comfort. Head out to the unique viewing hide at dusk or dawn for fantastic vistas across the park’s watering hole, then sit out on the deck overlooking the savannah as you dine on mouth-watering African cuisine. Your tented room sits on a raised wooden platform to allow sublime views of the elephants and is fitted with a four-poster bed, spacious en-suite and plush robes and slippers.
The Belmond Khwai River Lodge welcomes you in the Moremi Game Reserve with a refreshing pool and cosy campfire, perfect for sharing stories after a day of game drives. Your private lodge comes complete with a traditional thatched roof and panoramic viewing deck, ideal for enjoying a sundowner while you watch life in the reserve unfold around you.
Experience the delights of the Okavango Delta while staying at the Belmond Eagle Island Lodge. A sopisticated sanctuary on a private island at the heart of the Okavango Delta wetlands, you’ll be staying amid wildlife in the comfort of your tented luxury safari accommodation. Feel at one with nature thanks to a walled outdoor shower and private plunge pool, ideal for cooling off after long days exploring.
Enjoy five-star luxury in with stunning views of Victoria Falls at The Victoria Falls Hotel. A proud member of the Leading Hotels of the World, the Edwardian-style hotel was built in 1904 and splendidly redecorated in 2013 to combine its traditional majesty with modern sophistication. For more than 110 years The Victoria Falls Hotel has been a luxury icon and a “must stay” for anyone visiting the famous Victoria Falls.
The Experiences – From a helicopter ride over Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe to incredible safari encounters across three of Botswana’s best game parks
Your experience begins in Zimbabwe, your gateway to the spectacular Victoria Falls with a guided tour of this incredible site followed by an unforgettable helicopter flight over the falls. Relax with an afternoon cruise on the mighty Zambezi River aboard the African Queen as you spot native wildlife whilst enjoying a selection of drinks and canapés.
Take in incredible animal encounters as you explore three of Botswana’s best game reserves and national parks in the comfort of luxury safari vehicles and lodges in the hands of skilled Belmond naturalist guides and trackers.
Your safari adventure begins in Chobe National Park, home to Africa’s largest elephant population, with an estimated 120,000 of these beautiful animals calling the reserve home. Botswana has long been associated with the world’s greatest explorers, including David Livingstone, and you can follow in their footsteps with incredible wildlife experiences. Spend two full days in the Chobe area, taking morning and afternoon game drives. The rich ecosystems of the park lend themselves to an astonishing diversity of flora and fauna, as well as an array of stunning landscapes, and, of course, spectacular wild animals, including lions, tigers, hyenas and more.
Continue to the Moremi Game Reserve, home to some of the world’s most endangered species, including the cheetah, black and white rhinoceros, African wild dog and lion. Located within the larger, UNESCO World Heritage-listed Okavango Delta Game Reserve, Moremi covers about 40% of the Okavango and is the ideal spot for ticking off the elusive Big Five.
The Okavango Delta offers the ultimate water-based safari, as hippos swim freely among the aquatic life and eagles soar overhead. Game drives take you closer to the wildlife, which includes Nile crocodiles, elephants and over 500 species of birds.
Your Package Includes:
- 10 nights’ luxury accommodation, including five-star Belmond safari lodge stays in Chobe National Park, Moremi Game Reserve and the Okavango Delta
- Daily breakfast plus a selection of dining experiences
- Private tour of Victoria Falls, viewing the natural phenomenon from the Zimbabwean side, home to two-thirds of the falls
- Scenic Helicopter ride over the falls
- All-inclusive dining, high tea, and a wide selection of the finest local wines and spirits at the Belmond Lodges
- Multiple exciting game drives accompanied by experienced trackers in Botswana
- Evening sundowners in the African bush with free-flowing drinks and canapés
- Laundry service during your stay at Belmond Lodges
- Two full days exploring Chobe National Park – home to Africa’s largest elephant population – with game drives and sundowners in the African bush
- Stunning safari drives in Moremi Game Reserve, home to some of the world’s most endangered species
- Game drives through the Okavango Delta, mesmerising wetlands that provide the setting for the ultimate water safari
- Afternoon cruise on the Zambezi River with canapés and alcoholic drinks
- Domestic flights in Botswana from Kasane to Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge, between all the Belmond properties and Belmond Eagle Island Lodge to Maun
- Private return airport transfers
- Expert English-speaking guides, insider experiences, private transportation, plus sightseeing and entrance fees throughout the tour itinerary
Your tour starts in Zimbabwe at Victoria Falls, and ends at Maun in Botswana. Private return airport transfers are included on the first and last day of the tour. Please book your flight to arrive into Zimbabwe Victoria Falls by 1pm on Day 1. Your room will be available from 3pm onwards.
Your international flights are not included in your package. Flights to Zimbabwe from Australia will typically take approximately 28 hours with one stopover, departing from most major cities with South African Airways, Qantas, mirates and more.
You MUST complete your booking form within 48 hours of booking. Following its completion, our Tours Concierge will be in touch to assist with any additional arrangements you may wish to make, including assistance with international flights, with no booking fee to you.
A visa may be required to the destination you are visiting. It is each traveller’s responsibility to ensure they are holding a current visa. Please take the time to visit our preferred vendor website Visa Direct to assist you with any visa application requirements and processes. If you require any supporting documentation when applying for your visa please let us know and we would be more than happy to assist. Click here to visit the website.
DAY 1: ARRIVE VICTORIA FALLS, ZIMBABWE
Welcome to stunning Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe! Your gateway to the breathtaking waterfall of the same name, this beautiful African town is abundant in nature and wildlife experiences. Upon arrival at Victoria Falls Airport, you will be transferred by private vehicle to your luxury accommodation.
The remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy the five-star surrounds of The Victoria Falls Hotel. In a prime location overlooking the falls and a proud member of the Leading Hotels of the World, this Edwardian-style property combines traditional majesty and modern luxury.
Take time to relax and enjoy the hotel’s superior facilities, which include a wellness spa, gym, swimming pool, plus five restaurants and bars.
Accommodation: The Victoria Falls Hotel
DAY 2: VICTORIA FALLS
Rise early for breakfast and a guided morning tour of the spectacular Victoria Falls from the Zimbabwean side. With around two-thirds of the falls like in Zimbabwe, you will be perfectly placed for the best views no matter what time of the year you decide to travel.
A highlight today is an included scenic helicopter flight that allows you to see Victoria Falls from an entirely different perspective. Enjoy an unforgettable flight over this awe-inspiring natural phenomenon to get a better perspective of the sheer size and beauty of this incredible sight.
This evening you’ll enjoy a striking sunset cruise on the mighty Zambezi River aboard the African Queen. Sip on your favourite sundowner drink as you relax and enjoy the riverine vegetation and exciting wildlife – including unique birds, hippos and the occasional crocodile. In the drier months, wildlife such as elephants and many antelope species can be seen grazing on the riverbanks or swimming across to the smaller islands.
Accommodation: The Victoria Falls Hotel
Meals: Breakfast & Sunset Cruise
DAY 3: VICTORIA FALLS – CHOBE NATIONAL PARK, BOTSWANA
After a leisurely breakfast this morning, transfer by road to Kasane Airport in Botswana where you will board a flight to your luxury lodge located beside the mysterious Savute Channel in the Chobe National Park. This incredible wildlife reserve is home to Africa’s largest elephant population, buffalo herds, lions, leopards, hippos, crocodiles and a vast number of beautiful birdlife.
A private transfer will take you to your luxury safari accommodation. Having just reopened following a total rebuild, Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge is a stunning new lodge that blends natural influences with contemporary interiors designed to allow you to feel closer to the wildlife than ever before. Relax on your private deck as aminals roam freely before you and be sure to visit the new viewing hide overlooking the watering hole – the perfect place to sit out in anticipation of wildlife with your favourite drink in hand.
Take an afternoon game drive through Chobe National Park, keeping your eyes peeled for the estimated 120,000-strong elephant population and other beautiful African creatures.
Take in the incredible Botswana sunset with sundowners in the African bush before returning to the camp for dinner.
Accommodation: Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAYS 4 - 5: CHOBE NATIONAL PARK
The following two days will be spent exploring Chobe National Park during morning and afternoon safari drives. The rich ecosystems of the park lend themselves to an astonishing diversity of flora and fauna, as well as an array of stunning landscapes, and, of course, spectacular wild animals. Watch elephants feeding and washing; spot stampeding herds of buffalo; keep an eye out for hyenas hiding from majestic lions; and encounter up to 16 types of antelope, including the rare, semi-aquatic puku, red lechwe and sitatunga. Depending on the season, you may also catch the second largest migration of zebra in Africa.
Between game drives, relax in the luxurious surrounds of your tented suite or unwind by the generous pool and take a cooling dip. You may choose to enjoy some of the extra activities offered by the lodge including bird watching of the vast 250 species that populate the area, or bush walks in search of ancient bushman cave paintings and age old baobab trees (extra charges may apply).
In the evening, the vast open spaces around Savute make it the perfect place to experience the mesmerising expanse of the African night sky. Use the lodge’s powerful telescopes to witness constellations that you may never have seen before and discover how Bushmen used the stars to locate the true south.
Accommodation: Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAY 6: MOREMI GAME RESERVE
After breakfast and a final morning game drive through Chobe, you will be transferred to the airstrip for your included flight to the Moremi Game Reserve and the stunning Belmond Khawi River Lodge. Between fig trees and vibrant floodplains and with luxe tented safari rooms, you’ll be ideally situated for game viewing.
Take an afternoon safari drive through Moremi, home to some of the world’s most endangered species, including the cheetah, black and white rhinoceros, African wild dog and lion. Located on a concession area, vehicles are allowed to drive before and after sunset, as well as off road - getting you closer to the stunning wildlife.
Accommodation: Belmond Khwai River Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAYS 7 – 8: MOREMI GAME RESERVE
The next two days will be spent taking a morning and afternoon drive through the Moremi Game Reserve. Located within the larger, UNESCO World Heritage-listed Okavango Delta Game Reserve, Moremi covers about 40% of the Okavango. Keep an eye out for the famous Big Five, with lions, cheetahs, elephants, buffalos and rhinos all at home here. In addition to these majestic animals, you’ll find antelopes, impalas and more than 500 varieties of birds.
Located on a concession area allows you to get out of the vehcile and experiance the unique thrill of the traditional African walking safari. Get closer to the wildlife than ever before on a Khwai River walk with one of the Belmond experienced guides. Embrace the spirit of adventure as you trek through the rugged landscape, spotting animal tracks, curious insects, rare plantlife and countless other amazing sights. If walking safaris are not your thing then relax at the lodge and indulge in a pampering spa treatment in the comfort of your room or on your private deck with the sounds of the African bush around you (extra charges apply).
As evening descends, head out for a truly authentic African experience. Gather in a circle round the campfire to share stories of the day’s highlights, illuminated by the flickering glow of the flames. The scene is set by a local choir singing traditional songs, before you are invited to tuck into a feast of African dishes.
Accommodation: Belmond Khwai River Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAY 9: OKAVANGO DELTA
Following breakfast and a morning game drive, you will be transferred to the airstrip for your included flight to the Belmond Eagle Island Lodge situated on a private island in the heart of the vast Okavango Delta, northern Botswana. This stunning safari lodge brings timeless luxury to the Botswana wetlands. High-ceilinged tented rooms flood with light; each has a plunge pool and oversized bed with views of the Delta.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Okavango Delta offers the ultimate water-based safari, as hippos swim freely among the aquatic life and eagles soar overhead.
An afternoon game drive takes you closer to the wildlife, before dinner at the lodge tonight.
Accommodation: Belmond Eagle Island Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAY 10: OKAVANGO DELTA
Discover the magic of a new day and explore the Okavango Delta as the animal and birdlife first wake up. Head out before dawn by mokoro, encountering swooping African fish eagles and basking crocodiles. Glide silently on a traditional dugout canoe, a mode of transport used by locals for centuries. Explore the shallow, clear waters, drifting past brilliant waterlilies and papyrus grasses, reaching areas inaccessible by boat. Witness brightly coloured frogs, kingfishers, dragonflies or elephants feasting on the reeds. You will be equipped with Leica Trinovid 8x42 HD binoculars to see the wildlife with incredible clarity. During the wet season from May - October, the chance to explore open waters is a unique feature of an Okavango Delta safari. Cover more ground and delve deeper into the landscape, with a chance to spot an even greater range of wildlife. Embark on a sunset barge cruise for hypnotic views as you sip a sundowner.
In times of low water, explore the stunning Okavango Delta by land with morning and afternoon game drives. Nicknamed Africa’s Eden, this lush wetland is pulsing with life, home to Nile crocodiles, elephants and over 500 species of birds. Marvel at myriad species as you drive through this vast reserve, boasting wildebeest, giraffes, cheetahs, lions, hyenas and more.
Between game drives, take the opportunity to visit the neighbouring Nxhoga village for an authentic insight into the Motswana way of life. Learn about hut building, basket weaving and the fishing industry. Meet elders, chat with the children, and browse the small market, churches and bakery.
In the evening, return to the lodge for dinner and to enjoy the luxury surrounds of your Belmond lodge.
Accommodation: Belmond Eagle Island Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAY 11: DEPART OKAVANGO DELTA
Following breakfast and a morning game drive, you will be transferred to the airstrip for your included flight to Maun Airport where your journey comes to an end on arrival.
Meals: Breakfast
The ’7 day change of mind guarantee’ does not apply for Tour bookings. Due to the high demand and limited departures any cancellation / refund requests must be made within 48 hours of purchase. Otherwise, the standard Refund Policy applies.
After you have made your booking, please follow the instructions on your confirmation email and ensure you complete your traveller information details within 48 hours.
Important: Please allow for travelling time from Australia. International flights are not included in your package and must be purchased separately. It is your responsibility to make your own travel arrangements and ensure that you arrive in Zimbabwe on your chosen tour start date.
Valid for select departure dates:
LOW SEASON
17 November 2019 - SOLD OUT
29 November 2019 - SOLD OUT
13 December 2019 - SOLD OUT
5 January 2020 - SOLD OUT
21 January 2020 - SOLD OUT
18 February 2020 - SOLD OUT
1 March 2020 - SOLD OUT
19 March 2020 - SOLD OUT
19 November 2020 - SOLD OUT
1 December 2020 - SOLD OUT
12 December 2020 - SOLD OUT
20 November 2021
12 December 2021
HIGH SEASON
10 July 2020 - SOLD OUT
31 July 2020 - SOLD OUT
7 August 2020 - SOLD OUT
18 September 2020 - SOLD OUT
6 July 2021*
3 August 2021*
14 August 2021
14 September 2021*
PEAK SEASON
1 November 2019 - SOLD OUT
31 March 2020 - SOLD OUT
14 April 2020 - SOLD OUT
10 May 2020 - SOLD OUT
15 May 2020 - SOLD OUT
29 May 2020 - SOLD OUT
8 October 2020 - SOLD OUT
23 October 2020 - SOLD OUT
3 November 2020 - SOLD OUT
19 October 2021
*NOTE: Order of lodge stays in Botswana varies on these dates. Guests travelling on dates marked with an * will travel 3 nights Savute Elephant Lodge, 2 nights Eagle Island Lodge and 3 nights Khwai River Lodge.
Instant Booking: To secure your dates at purchase, click ‘Instant Booking’ and select your preferred package. Once your preferred package is selected you’ll click through to ‘Choose Your Dates of Travel’ and will be able to enter in your preferred tour commencement date.
Twin-Share Package: The package is valid for ONE PERSON (based on twin share). If you are travelling with another person you must purchase TWO PACKAGES, otherwise, an additional solo traveller surcharge will apply. Solo travellers will get their own room throughout the tour.
Maximum tour capacity is two people, minimum tour capacity is one person.
Tour includes accommodation at the following hotels or similar:
The Victoria Falls Hotel, Zimbabwe (Standard Room)
Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge, Chobe Reserve Botswana (Tented Suite)
Belmond Khwai River Lodge. Moremi Reserve Botswana (Thatched Tent)
Belmond Eagle Island Lodge, Okavango Delta Botswana (Deluxe Tented Suite with Plunge Pool)
Maximum Room Capacity: Two adults, using double or twin bedding.
All-inclusive dining, high tea and a wide selection of the finest local wines and spirits are included at the Belmond Safari Lodges only.
Premium brand wine, spirits and champagne as well as other additional services such as horseback safaris, helicopter, spa, private vehicle, shop, and gratuities are not included at the Belmond Safari Lodges.
Arrival and departure transfers are only available on the first and last day of the tour. Any arrivals and departures outside of these days will need to make their own arrangements to/from the airport.
Travellers should have a good level of physical fitness and mobility and must be able to negotiate uneven surfaces, climb stairs and board boats. Please note that we do a lot of walking around historical sites and use public transport at times to travel between sites and to/from our hotel so please be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes.
Your passport must be valid at least SIX months beyond the return date of your intended stay overseas.
All surcharges are payable directly to Luxury Escapes.
Dining inclusions do not include beverages (unless otherwise stated) and menu options are subject to change.
Additional expenses such as (but not limited to) international flights, visa fees, travel insurance, additional activities and anything not listed on the itinerary are not included with this package.
Tipping and gratuities are not included in the package and are at your own discretion (as a guide, approx. US$10-15 per person, per day is the industry standard).
Package cannot be split.
Travel insurance is compulsory. We suggest purchasing travel insurance as soon as possible after purchasing this package.
Strictly no refunds for this package for amendments and change of date.
Not valid in conjunction with any other offer or on existing reservations.
Any unused portion of the package is non-refundable and cannot be exchanged for other services or cash.
Luggage allowance: The luggage limit on all shared charter flights in Botswna is 15kg per person in a soft sided bag. Please note large hard suitcases cannot be accommodated on these small aircraft and luggage limits are not able to be increased. All properties provide complimentary laundry service to allow for limited luggage.
Please Note: Disability access is limited during the tour, please consider this when making your booking.
Before making a reservation, please ensure that the name on the reservation is the same as it appears on your passport. An error may result in a name change penalty. Luxury Escapes accepts no responsibility for accuracy of name on the travel documents.
The value and comparative savings have been determined based on published rack rates and the value of inclusions. Please be advised that rack rates may not be reflective of actual rates being charged, dependent on the timing and manner of your booking and therefore are only indicative of the level of saving.
Occasionally our itineraries are updated prior to departure to incorporate improvements stemming from past travellers’ feedback as well as updates from our ground operators. Please note that while we operate successful tours in this region throughout the year, some changes may be necessary due to inclement weather and common seasonal changes to timetables and transport routes. This can happen with little notice so please be prepared for modifications to the route. The order and timing of included activities may also vary from time to time.
All activities and services are subject to availability.
Please note that full terms and conditions apply.