Botswana Flood Plains to Falls

Explore the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park in Botswana then cross into Zimbabwe for an elephant experience like no other in the heart of Victoria Falls National Park. This incredible journey starts in Maun, Botswana where you will board a small plane for a short flight north to the outer reaches of Chobe National Park. Here you’ll indulge in safaris day and night, returning to the sumptuous extravagances of Linyanti Bush Camp. From there it’s a scenic flight over the Okavango Delta to Atzaro Safari Lodge for four nights of sublime hospitality situated where the savanna meets the delta for one-of-a-kind safari opportunities.

From Atzaro, we fly to Kisane where we transfer to Elephant Camp just south of Victoria Falls for two final nights. With Elephant Camp as our base, we’ll visit the Wild Horizons Elephant Sanctuary and Orphanage and get up close and personal with these majestic giants, then tour Victoria Falls before a scenic helicopter flight over Batoka Gorge.

This unique trip combines five-star accommodations with days of adventure in a wide variety of environments without the crowds. The wildlife in northern Botswana and the Zambezi Basin is mind-blowing in its diversity and the region contains some of the largest elephant herds in Africa. It is a photographer’s dream trip and an experience you will cherish for a lifetime.

If all that is not good enough, this May 2024 departure is being hosted Michelle Valberg, a renowned wildlife photographer and Nikon Ambassador, who has spent over three decades captivating audiences with her extraordinary storytelling through the lens. Her photographic journey has taken her to all corners of the globe, as she tirelessly seeks out thrilling adventures and remarkable photographic opportunities. With a portfolio that graces magazine covers and publications, exhibitions, and embassies worldwide, Michelle has firmly established herself as a trailblazer in the world of photography. Her iconic images have even found their way onto a Royal Canadian Mint coin as well as Canada Post stamps, further solidifying her imprint on Canadian culture.

As a captivating public speaker, community leader, and advocate for animals, the environment, and conservation, Michelle’s influence extends far beyond her photographs. Her commitment to making a positive impact is showcased through her active involvement in various charitable initiatives. Michelle Valberg’s accolades and contributions to the field of photography are truly remarkable. She has published four books, she is Canadian Geographic-Photographer-in-Residence and was bestowed the title of Fellow of the Royal Canadian Geographic Society and an International Fellow of the Explorer’s Club in New York City. Her unwavering dedication to her craft and her relentless pursuit of excellence earned her the prestigious Julia Margaret Cameron Award for Women Photographers, the gold medal at the World Photographic Cup and she was appointed as a member of the Order of Canada.

Itinerary at a Glance

• Arrive Maun, Botswana and take a short flight over the Okavango Delta to Linyanti Bush Camp on the border of Chobe National Park
• Experience game drives and walking safaris returning each afternoon to your luxurious camp
• Ride in a dugout canoe down narrow waterways teeming with bird life
• Listen for the haunting calls lions on a night drive safari through a private concession
• Take a scenic flight to Atzaro Safari Lodge, arguably the most decadent lodge in the region
• Safari on the edge of the delta in search of elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, giraffe, and hippo
• Fly to Kisane and then on to Elephant Camp in Victoria Falls National Park for sundowners overlooking the mighty Zambezi River
• Meet the rescued elephants of the Wild Horizons Elephant Sanctuary and Orphanage
• Take a walking tour Victoria Falls then fly by helicopter over the Batoka Gorge
• Optional Extensions to Hwange’s finest fly-in safari camps

What to Expect on the Botswana Flood Plains to Falls Adventure

Day 1: Arrival in Maun, Botswana and flight to Linyanti Bush Camp

Today we will fly to the incredible Linyanti Bush Camp and begin our authentic safari experience in the Chobe Enclave.

Spend your time exploring the raw African wilderness on thrilling game drives, learn about the fascinating fauna and flora on walking safaris or float serenely along the waterways in a mokoro (canoe). A life-changing wilderness experience awaits you at Linyanti Bush Camp.

With just six luxury tents, Linyanti Bush Camp offers an intimate Chobe safari experience in a private concession on the border of Botswana’s iconic Chobe National Park. The Chobe Enclave teems with wildlife and is best known for its large herds of elephants and buffalo. Our Chobe safari lodge sits on the banks of the Linyanti Wetlands – a significant area that is one of the primary sources of water during the drier months. Look forward to exceptional and diverse wildlife encounters year-round. Overnight Linyanti Bush Camp.

Day 2: Game drives, walking safaris and more

Game drives are what gets us up in the morning in the African bush, they’re a great avenue for exploring the land in a safe and exciting way.

Walking safaris buckle up your boots and take a step into the intricate world of nature. Explore the wonders of the natural world with African soil crunching beneath your feet. Overnight Linyanti Bush Camp.

Day 3: Full Day of Safari Options

Linyanti boasts some of Botswana’s best birding. Delight in spotting the Arnot’s chat, the Goliath heron or the majestic Long-crested eagle.

Traditionally, the mokoro was the only form of transport through the waterways. Sail through the rivers and tributaries with our river guides in a dugout canoe. Overnight Linyanti Bush Camp.

Day 4: Night drives and more game than you can imagine

After a few amazing days you’ll think you’ve seen it all.

Walking, riding and canoeing through the enclave is an experience to remember… so now its time for a night drive!

This private concession allows for game drives after the sun has set. Experience the bush when elusive nocturnal wildlife awkens to hunt, forage and explore. Overnight Linyanti Bush Camp.

Day 5: Fly from Linyanti Bush Camp to Atzaro Safari Lodge

After breakfast we’ll get prepared for our incredible flight to Atzaro Okavango.

The newest and arguably most decadent lodge in the region, you’ll be thrilled with the deluxe accommodations and outrageous hospitality. And then there’s the game! Overnight Atzaro Okavango Camp.

Days 6 – 8: Atzaro Okavango: Sustainable Luxury in the Heart of the Delta

Atzaro Okavango Camp provides an unparalleled combination of “savanna meets delta” adventures and unforgettable wildlife encounters, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of the Okavango Delta.

You’ll be able to experience year-round sightings of iconic African wildlife such as elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, giraffe, lechwe, and hippo. This premier destination is ideal for safari enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, offering a private and exclusive experience.

Atzaro Okavango Camp takes pride in their harmonious integration with the stunning natural environment and incorporation of the diverse culture of the local people. The camp is powered entirely by solar energy, offering the perfect balance of sustainable living and opulent comfort, and it constructed using recycled materials. It offers an on-site wellness spa, a fully equipped gym and an expansive 20m pool. Each luxurious tent comes with air-conditioning, private plunge pools, and Wi-Fi, ensuring that one never has to compromise on modern amenities while enjoying the serenity of the African wilderness. Overnight Atzarko Safari Lodge.

Day 9: Flight to Kisane and transfer to Victoria Falls

Today we will pack up and venture into Zimbabwe. Upon arrival at The Elephant Camp, you will be given an orientation and taken to your deluxe safari tents. Tonight we will have sundowners over looking the mighty Zambezi River. Overnight Elephant Camp.

Day 10: Meet the Elephants, Tour the Falls

Today we will meet the rescued elephants on their turf. An opportunity to feed and be close to them is incredible. We can also tour Victoria Falls on foot and organize a heli flight for a grand finale! Overnight Elephant Camp.

Day 11: Departure Day

Today we will transfer you to the nearby Victoria Falls Airport, or over to the Livingstone Airport in Zambia. Please be aware the latter involves a border crossing so make sure you give yourself enough time to make your connection. Afternoon flights are the most common out of either airport.

Accommodations

Linyanti Bush Camp, Botswana

A life-changing wilderness experience awaits you at Linyanti Bush Camp. With just six luxury tents, Linyanti
offers an intimate Chobe safari experience in a private concession on the border of Botswana’s iconic Chobe National Park. The Chobe Enclave teems with wildlife and is best known for its large herds of elephants and buffalo

Atzaro Safari Lodge

Atzaro Okavango is a premier safari destination that offers sustainable luxury in the heart of Botswana’s Okavango Delta. Surrounded by lush palm islands and vibrant delta vegetation, our eco-friendly oasis is nestled within the breath-taking landscape of this World Heritage wilderness.

Atzaro is powered entirely by solar energy, offering the perfect balance of sustainable living and opulent comfort. Indulge in our on-site wellness spa, maintain your fitness routine in our fully-equipped gym, or take a refreshing dip in our expansive 20m pool. Each luxurious tent comes with air-conditioning, private plunge pools, and Wi-Fi, ensuring that you never have to compromise on modern amenities while enjoying the serenity of the African wilderness.

Elephant Camp

Elephant camp is situated only 10 minutes from Victoria Falls in a private concession within the Victoria Falls National Park. With an emphasis on exclusivity, the luxury tented suites all have private decks and plunge pools.

The suites are all equipped with indoor and outdoor showers, huge baths, private lounges, mini bar and tea/coffee stations, overhead fans plus air conditioning and are all mosquito proofed.

The Elephant Camp overlooks a waterhole that is fed by natural streams in the rainy season that rush down to meet the Masuwe River, and the Zambezi gorges below the Falls. Walks and birding for guests supply boundless photographic opportunities in addition to the variety of activities that are available in Victoria falls.