Africa Gentle Giants

Safari summary

Your journey begins as you arrive in Johannesburg for an evening at the Westcliff Hotel and morning transfer to Zambia. At the Islands of Siankaba on the Zambezi River you’ll be in prime position between Victoria Falls and Chobe National Park. Set off on safari on the back of an elephant in search of other wild game in the riverine bush, crossing the Zambezi in shallow water to get onto the many islands. Further explore the Zambezi in a classic style, dug out canoe known as a mokoro. Hippo, crocodile and a variety of bird species can be seen on a mokoro journey, as you glide along the calm waters, poled by a professional guide.

You’ll then experience the thrill of a unique African safari from the Zambezi Queen riverboat, based on the magnificent Chobe River, on your way to the Chobe National Park. Home to the largest populace of elephants in the world, you’ll explore on land and see all the the Chobe offers in an open-air 4 x 4 game vehicle. Venture out to the other side of the Chobe River, into Namibia and the nearby villages for a unique cultural experience. Journey on to Sanctuary Baine’s Camp, located on a private concession neighboring the Moremi. Here you will have the exclusive chance to take a journey with three semi-habituated elephants as they personally show you their Moremi habitat and walk you through a day in the life of an African elephant. Travel the waters of the Okavango Delta by motorboat to explore the peaceful haven where cheetah, crocodile, birds and elephants have been protected and preserved for decades.

Your journey will come to a close at Mashatu Game Reserve, located in the Northern Tuli Game Reserve of Botswana, bordering South Africa. View the bush from a whole different angle via walking safaris and pedal your way along elephant paths on mountain bike safari. The highlight of your journey is here at Mashatu, with a very special opportunity to have a hand in giving back to the environment you have been enjoying. Join the Mashatu research team and participate in the actual collaring process of a wild elephant. You will accompany the team as they track, immobilize and affix an advanced collar on the elephant. The movement pattern data this collar produces will aid in the understanding of how to better co-exist with these threatened animals. This is a life-changing experience, where you will be face to face with an elephant in a rare, close-proximity environment.

About this tour

	Tour type	Custom, tailor-made, private
	Main focus	Walking safari—with armed guard
	Activity level	Moderate activity
	Best months
	Countries	Botswana Zambia
	Parks	Chobe Mashatu Mosi oa Tunya Okavango Delta Victoria Falls

Fine details

Safari highlights

• Boat, canoe, dhow, kayak, mokoro safari
• Cultural visits—orphanages, markets, schools
• Night game drives