Okavango Delta & Deserts | 2025

Okavango Delta & Deserts | 2025

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Okavango Delta & Deserts | 2025

11 Days Starting in Kasane, Botswana and ending in Windhoek, Namibia

Visiting: Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, Okavango Delta, Maun, Windhoek, Sossusvlei, Swakopmund, Etosha National Park

Tour operator:

Contiki

Tour code:

AADDMP20

Specialist Group:

18-30 Somethings

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

18-35

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Botswana and Namibia with the "Okavango Delta & Deserts" tour in 2025. This adventure begins in Kasane, taking you through the vast Makgadikgadi Salt Pans and into the heart of the Okavango Delta, where you'll experience thrilling game drives and serene Mokoro boat trips. Witness the majestic wildlife of Etosha National Park and immerse yourself in the rich culture of the San Bushmen. Enjoy scenic stops at the Nauklauft mountain range and explore the iconic Sossusvlei dunes. With comfortable accommodations and delicious meals included, this tour offers a perfect blend of wildlife, culture, and stunning natural beauty. Optional activities like helicopter flights and sandboarding add an extra layer of excitement to this once-in-a-lifetime safari adventure.

Highlights

  • Explore the Okavango Delta with opportunities to spot the 'Big Five' and enjoy a sunset trip along the Khwai River.

  • Experience life in an African bushman village at Etosha National Park.

  • Cruise the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans in search of a meerkat colony.

  • Take a Mokoro boat trip along the waterways of the Okavango Delta.

  • Visit the San Bushmen of Omandumba and learn about their desert lifestyle.

  • Explore Sossusvlei, including the iconic Deadvlei and Big Daddy sand dune.

  • Enjoy a cultural tour and traditional dinner in Swakopmund.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Kasane To Makgadikgadi Salt Pans

Location: Makgadikgadi Salt Pans

Accommodation: Lodge

Accommodation Name: Gweta Lodge (or similar)

Meals Included: Dinner

Dumela Botswana! We start our adventure in the town of Kasane and head south to Gweta Lodge on the edge of the Makgadikgadi Salt pans. Opt to cruise the salt pans in open safari vehicles in search of a meerkat colony while getting some funky perspective photos in one of the largest salt flats in the world. Tonights treat is sundower drinks under an icon of Botswana before retiring to the lodge for dinner and drinks at the bar.

Day 2: Makgadikgadi Salt Pans To Okavango Delta

Location: Okavango Delta

Accommodation: Camp

Accommodation Name: Contiki Safari Camp (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

We will say goodbye to the pans (for now) and head on to the wildlife haven that is the Okavango Delta Our minds already blown by this unique natural landscape, it's off to the Okavango Delta, where we'll take an awe-inspiring game drive before settling into our exclusive Contiki Safari Camp. We'll be greeted with luxe two person dome tents - pre-erected of course - with stretchers, mattresses and linen. Dinner? How about a campfire meal as we swap tales under a starswept sky?

Day 3: Okavango Delta

Location: Okavango Delta

Accommodation: Camp

Accommodation Name: Contiki Safari Camp (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Get your David Attenborough voice on, we're in the heart of Africa's iconic wildlife filming paradise. This sprawling wetland is home to some of Africa's most incredible species and after a quick bite to eat we're off on an early morning game drive in the Okavango Delta in hopes of spotting elephants, hippos and (if we're lucky) some predators. We'll head back to camp for a tasty lunch and siesta. Chill in the camp or opt for a Mokoro boat trip along the gorgeous waterways of the delta. In the afternoon we're back on another jaw-dropping game drive before our traditional campfire dinner. This evening we've a once in a lifetime opportunity - a night drive in the bush with spotlights seeking out elusive nocturnal animals you can't find during the day.

Day 4: Okavango Delta To Maun

Location: Maun

Accommodation: Lodge

Accommodation Name: Island Safari Lodge (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Another morning at the Delta (the struggle is real.) After coffee and breakfast at sunrise, it's time for another morning game drive – eyes peeled for elephants – as we make our way out of this wildlife paradise. Check into the lodge, chill by the pool and then take to the skies in an optional Okavango Delta helicopter flight. Hover just meters above the waterways or fly high for stunning views of this unique inland delta and of course, don’t forget your binocs for some wildlife spotting from the air. If you've got a head for heights, you won't find views more spectacular than this anywhere in the world. Tonight, you’ll polish off your last night in Botswana with a night in the town. The Okavango Delta Brewery calls, offering a tour, tasting and dinner for you to enjoy.

Day 5: Maun To Windhoek

Location: Windhoek

Accommodation: Lodge

Accommodation Name: Town Lodge, Windhoek (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

We've got a long day ahead of us. Today we'll traverse two countries as we leave Botswana and head into Namibia. After crossing the border, we'll arrive in Windhoek this evening. Keep your cameras ready for stunning Savanna scenery along the way Tonight we'll check out the famous Joe's Beerhouse - an (eccentric) cattle ranch style restaurant. There's lots to choose from. But there's nothing better than some earthy Namibian game meat to kick off our time in Namibia.

Day 6: Windhoek To Sossusvlei

Location: Sossusvlei

Accommodation Name: Weltevrede Guesthouse (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, we'll hit the road together to admire the beautiful countryside. Namibia's main attractions are spaced far apart so expect some long drives with jaw-dropping views along the way. Beautiful desert scenery, as well as historical and cultural stops on the route - we promise the drives won't be a bore. Our first stop will be for lunch near the Nauklauft Mountain Range on a vineyard, in the middle of the desert. Wine tasting anyone? This evening, we arrive at our accommodation near one of Namibia's most iconic attractions: Sossusvlei, a huge salt and clay pan framed by enormous dunes (some of the highest in the world). We'll Check in to our lodge and then get ready for a morning’s exploration with a big ol’ buffet dinner.

Day 7: Sossusvlei To Swakopmund

Location: Swakopmund

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Prost Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

We're up early today – let’s get exploring the desert before it’s too hot! We start out at the Namib-Naukluft National Park, keeping our eyes open for Oyrx and other desert-dwelling wildlife. Wandering along Big Daddy sand dune and down into Deadvlei, admiring the views, you’ll finally realise where your desktop background images come from. We'll hit the road again, admiring more scenery on our way to the coastal town of Swakopmund. After checking into our hotel take yourself for a sunset stroll and enjoy some of the local delicacies here.

Day 8: Swakopmund

Location: Swakopmund

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Prost Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Swakopmund is our adventurer's paradise as we explore the ocean and the surrounding desert. Fancy a seal kayaking experience at Pelican point? You can catch glimpses of dolphins, whales, seals (of course) and other fascinating marine life. Then opt into hitting the Namib Desert for a spot of quad biking or sand boarding in the oldest dunes. If you'd prefer to keep things chilled then take a historic and cultural tour of Mondesa Township, meeting the locals and learning about the different ethnic groups followed by a home-made dinner in a traditional restaurant.

Day 9: Swakopmund To Etosha

Location: Etosha National Park

Accommodation: Lodge

Accommodation Name: Ijaba Lodge (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today we head back inland for our Namibian safari destination of choice – Etosha. Before we arrive, we’ll stop off in the Erongo Mountains to visit the San Bushmen of Omandumba. Here, we’ll learn some of their language and be wowed at their skills and crafts as they educate us on how to survive and thrive in harsh desert conditions. Then we're headed to our accommodation near Etosha (a pan so large it can be seen from space!). But it's the natural waterholes lining the edge that interests the wildlife, and that's why it interests us. Enjoy sundowners and an included dinner at the lodge while the excitement builds for tomorrow's game drive.

Day 10: Etosha

Location: Etosha National Park

Accommodation: Lodge

Accommodation Name: Ijaba Lodge (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

We're up early for our first Namibian game drive in Etosha! From big cats to desert-savvy antelope, the wildlife viewing experience here is like nowhere else on Earth. At midday we'll head back to the lodge for lunch and siesta by the pool. Tonight, on our last night together, we’ll treat ourselves to one last buffet dinner.

Day 11: Etosha To Windhoek

Location: Windhoek

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, we drive back down to Windhoek to catch the afternoon flights back home, saying goodbye to new friends but cherishing our lifelong memories.   Please Note: Do not book flights that depart before 14:30pm on the last day of the trip.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation at Gweta Lodge, Contiki Safari Camp, Island Safari Lodge, Klein Windhoek Guesthouse, Hammerstein Lodge, Prost Hotel, and Mondijla Lodge (or similar).

  • Meals

    Meals included as per itinerary: breakfast, lunch, and dinner on specified days.

  • Game Drives

    Morning and afternoon game drives in the Okavango Delta and Etosha National Park.

  • Cultural Experiences

    Visit to the San Bushmen of Omandumba and a Township Tour with a Traditional Dinner in Swakopmund.

  • Safari Activities

    Activities such as a night drive in the bush with spotlights and a Mokoro boat trip in the Okavango Delta.

  • Scenic Stops

    Scenic lunch at the Nauklauft mountain range and a visit to Sossusvlei.

  • Transport

    Transport includes open safari vehicles for game drives, Mokoro boat trips in the Okavango Delta, and scenic drives between destinations such as Kasane, Maun, and Windhoek.

What's Not Included

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.

  • International Flights

    International flights to and from the starting and ending locations are not included.

  • Visa Fees

    Visa fees for entry into Botswana and Namibia are not included.

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities such as a helicopter flight over the Okavango Delta, seal kayaking at Pelican Point, quad biking, and sandboarding in the Namib Desert.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks not included in the itinerary.

Dining Summary

  • 6 Dinner (D)
  • 10 Breakfast (B)
  • 1 Lunch (L)

Included Experience

  • Okavango Delta: Our first taste of the Okavango Delta, as we head to our Contiki Safari Camp. Hopefully spotting some of the ‘Big Five’ on our way.
  • Okavango Delta: Get up with the sun in search of the amazing wildlife in this garden of Eden.
  • Okavango Delta: Enjoy another taste of wildlife spotting this afternoon.
  • Okavango Delta: Enjoy a sunset trip along the waterways of the Khwai River, looking out for the incredible animals that live here.
  • Okavango Delta: It’s our last drive in the Delta! And our last chance to see any wildlife that eluded us on previous jaunts.
  • Sossusvlei: Explore Sossusvlei, snap shots of Deadvlei and wander around Big Daddy sand dune
  • Etosha National Park: Experience life in an African bushman village, as the local people give you a snapshot of their desert lifestyle.

Accommodation

Stay at a variety of lodges and camps including Gweta Lodge, Contiki Safari Camp, Island Safari Lodge, Klein Windhoek Guesthouse, Hammerstein Lodge, Prost Hotel, and Mondijla Lodge, offering comfortable accommodations with amenities like pre-erected dome tents, stretchers, and linen.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in the Okavango Delta?

    In the Okavango Delta, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife including elephants, hippos, and potentially some predators. The area is known for its rich biodiversity and is a prime location for spotting the 'Big Five'.

  • What unique experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes unique experiences such as a night drive in the bush with spotlights in the Okavango Delta, a visit to the San Bushmen of Omandumba, and a Township Tour with a Traditional Dinner in Swakopmund. Additionally, there are scenic stops like a lunch at the Nauklauft mountain range and a visit to Sossusvlei.

  • Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

    Yes, there are several optional activities available during the tour, including a helicopter flight over the Okavango Delta, seal kayaking at Pelican Point, quad biking, and sandboarding in the Namib Desert.

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    Accommodation is provided at various lodges and camps, including Gweta Lodge, Contiki Safari Camp, Island Safari Lodge, Klein Windhoek Guesthouse, Hammerstein Lodge, Prost Hotel, and Mondijla Lodge, or similar accommodations.

  • What kind of transport is used during the tour?

    Transport during the tour includes open safari vehicles for game drives, Mokoro boat trips in the Okavango Delta, and scenic drives between destinations such as Kasane, Maun, and Windhoek.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Northern Choice plus Kaikoura

16-Jan-2023

The trip ran so smoothly and was well organised! The extra add ons were amazing and all the services were spot on. Food places were reasonable. I'm definitely booking my next contiki trip again soon!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Sophie  

Exceptional customer service

14-Jan-2023

Contiki were exceptional in providing customer service. They provided me with lots of information and were quick in responding to all my questions. I found that they were super helpful.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

First time traveling with Contiki. Highly recommend! You’ll have a blast

17-Jan-2023

First time traveling internationally since Covid and glad I spent the trip with Contiki. The travel, lodging, meals, activities everything was planned effortlessly. Going to Greece in may with contiki. Highly recommend

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Amazing trip. Made great friends and memories. Can’t wait for my next trip

15-Jan-2023

I had 24 people on my contiki and I think it was the perfect number, we all got to know each other well and got along great. Our tour guide was fun and knowledgeable, the hotels were nice and in great locations.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Tanner Stokes  

My amazing trip to Africa

13-Jan-2023

Sherif was an excellent tour guide. He was extremely knowledgeable about every single small detail at each site that we visited. In addition to his great service, he has a glowing spirit that made me feel like I had family with me the entire trip. Anything that I was concerned about, he always had an answer and was there to help. I truly enjoyed my experience and will purchase a tour with him in the future

Feefo Trusted Reviews

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 60 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.

    Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.

    At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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