Day 1 : Fly to South Africa

Our journey begins with an overnight flight across the Atlantic.

Day 2 : Arrive in Johannesburg

Today, we settle into our hotel in South Africa’s largest city, known for its rich culture and ancient attractions. Rest up for the adventures ahead in our five-star accommodations.

Day 3 : Apartheid Museum & City Tour

Enjoy a leisurely morning before our visit to the world-famous Apartheid Museum, where we learn about the rise and fall of the 20th-century South African Apartheid. Afterwards, we explore the city with a guide to see iconic attractions, such as Nelson Mandela Square, the Old Johannesburg Stock Exchange, and the Union Buildings designed by Sir Herbert Baker. Tonight, we get to know fellow travelers at a Welcome Dinner.

Day 4 : Botswana & Impalila Island

We fly to Kasane, Botswana, today and take a private boat ride to our exclusive accommodations on Impalila Island near Chobe National Park. Watch for birds, hippos, and crocodiles as we glide through the flooded flatlands into the heart of the wilderness. Settle into your luxurious bungalow with a spacious bedroom and bathroom, plus a private terrace and pool.

Day 5 : Chobe National Park

Embark on a thrilling safari drive in beautiful Chobe National Park today! This area is home to nearly half of the country’s elephant population. Our local guide expertly navigates the terrain as we seek out the Big Five of Africa – Cape buffalo, lions, leopards, elephants, and rhinos! Afterwards, savor a one-of-a-kind lunch experience in a two-story “floating restaurant” on the Chobe River. Then, take a private boat ride to the marshes of Sedudu Island for more wildlife sightings, such as the African marsh owl, before returning to our bungalows.

Day 6 : Namibian Village & Zambezi River

This morning, we are immersed in local culture with a visit to an authentic Namibian village. Learn about the customs that have been passed down for generations and meet friendly villagers who share a glimpse into their way of life. Afterwards, you may choose to relax at the lodge or embark on a leisurely boat adventure down the Zambezi River to fish or simply take in the scenery. Tonight, we listen to fascinating stories of the island during dinner. 

Day 7 : Water Safari & Set Sail

Our morning kicks off with a water safari in Chobe National Park, where we get another chance to see crocodiles and hippos lurking in the water or antelope grazing near the riverbank. After lunch along the water, we take a private flight and see the rugged wilderness from thousands of feet above. Arriving in Kariba, our privately chartered African Dream ship awaits with spacious rooms featuring a French balcony or private terrace. Head to the sun deck for unbeatable views as we set sail on the world’s largest man-made body of water, Lake Kariba, nestled between Zambia and Zimbabwe. 

Day 8 : Gache Gache River & Palm Bay

As the sun rises, we transfer onto a covered pontoon boat and glide along Gache Gache River, bordering Matusadona National Park. See local communities, drowned trees peeking out, and wildlife, such as herons and various large mammals. Afterwards, spend time relaxing on board. We arrive in Palm Bay at sunset for a peaceful small boat ride to admire the sky’s colorful hues reflecting off the water, then step back aboard the ship.

Day 9 : Matusadona National Park

Our day begins with a small boat excursion to Matusadona National Park for an exhilarating land safari. Bordered by the Sanyati and Ume Rivers, this area is the epitome of true wilderness and home to countless species. Afterwards, we return to our floating home to indulge in regional cuisine, like freshly caught tilapia, and attend a round table to learn about Lake Kariba.

Day 10 : Victoria Falls

We disembark in Kariba today to see its remarkable dam, the source of electric power for over half of the country. Next, we take a private flight to Victoria Falls, a natural border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. Enjoy a Zambezi River luncheon cruise, followed by a walking tour along the rim for impressive views of the world’s largest sheet of falling water. Then, get a birds-eye view of the falls on a flightseeing adventure above the cascading waters! Tonight, we check in to our accommodations and enjoy a celebratory Farewell Dinner.

Day 11 : Journey to the States

After breakfast, we fly to Johannesburg before our overnight flight back to the United States.

Day 12 : Arrive Home

We return home today with cherished memories of our time exploring Southern Africa’s unique landscapes and majestic wildlife.