Itineraries are prepared up to a year ahead and things can change.  Modifications may be made. Always check our website for the latest information.  

Nov 8 -  Fly USA to Johannesburg (JNB)  All air details will come as soon as pricing is posted by the airline.

We suggest departing USA on Nov 8  to arrive Johannesburg on Nov. 9.  Dozens of airlines fly to Jp'burg.  Delta and United offer direct flights from Atlanta and New York into Johannesburg arriving late afternoon. Easy round-trip air in and out of Johannesburg.  No visas needed for USA passport holders. 

For those arriving on the Nov 9, all AFSers love Sunrock Guest House https://sunrock.co.za/ where all our past clients have been looked after by Ina and Arthur. They are just 5 minutes from the airport and offer complimentary transfers to and from the airport with full breakfast included and very affordable.  Details later.

(Nov 9 - Welcome to South Africa - For ease of your journey, we will all fly together as a group on three internal flights between 3 countries.  Tour officially starts 8AM on Nov 10  and everyone needs to be in Johannesburg.)

Nov 10 – Fly to Kasane. Welcome to Botswana!

Botswana  – Situated in the southern reaches of Africa , Botswana is known for its magnificent rivers, vast floodplains and deep lagoons and offers an incredible authentic game experience where there focus is on low-impact tourism in true pristine wilderness.

Check-in at Johannesburg Tambo airport by 9AM on Nov 10 for your journey to the magnificent rivers and incredible reserves of Africa, visiting the places that stole David Livingstone’s heart.  You will lose your soul to these vast landscapes as well.    Nov 10  we fly Airlink JNB to BBK (Kasane)   11:50AM to 1:35PM.

Upon arrival in Kasane airport, you will be collected by Bakwena Lodge for your 30-minute transfer to the lodge situated on the banks for the mighty Chobe River.  You'll be welcomed with a full briefing by our wonderful staff and then time to check into your rooms for 2 nights. At this boutique lodge with 5-stars on TripAdvisor, you'll be pampered in serenity in a lush sanctuary along the banks of the mighty Chobe River. 15 beautiful individual thatched chalets are elevated on stilts wrapped in a tree canopy. They feature a private veranda overlooking the river with luxury ensuite bathroom. Enjoy the pool, the spa and alfresco dinners. This oasis is in the heart of the African bush. One may enjoy sightings of waterbuck, giraffe, kudu, impala, warthogs, monkeys, baboons, bushbuck and the highest concentration of bird species in the world, including the regal fish eagle.

Chobe River Front - The Chobe River forms the northern boundary of the Chobe National Park with Namibia and is renowned for its diverse and abundant game viewing opportunities. This section of the park is best known for its dense concentration of wildlife, including elephant and hippo populations, but the waters attract all manner of game including large herds of buffalo and the lions that prey on them - a visit to the Chobe River Front guarantees close encounters with an array of African wildlife.

Your home for the next two nights will be the intimate Chobe Bakwena Lodge.

Sunset Safari cruise - - Time for tea – afternoon tea and light bites will be served before departing on your afternoon cruise.  Embark on a thrilling boat cruise on the magnificent Chobe River that really brings you up close and personal to the animals.  Exquisite and beyond comparison the Chobe river boasts one of the highest concentrations of wildlife on the planet. Float past every creature on this continent, great and small. Time stands still, mirages of herds of elephant swimming and predators in slow motion, as you salute the African setting sun with gin and tonic in hand.  Massive elephant herds with numbers in the hundreds for a site you'll never forget.   This is Africa at its best!!

Overnight: Chobe Bakwena Lodge  View Lodge Brochure.    B,L,D.       

Bakwena Lodge is an intimate, privately owned safari camp on the banks of the Chobe River, offering an inclusive safari option in an area with some of the finest game viewing to be had. Chobe is well known for its predators and is home to an estimated 200,000 elephants. Activities, all based in-house, are naturally focused on land and water safaris, Bicycle Tour and a sundowner cruise to the meeting place of four countries (the only one in the world!). Bakwena's excellent guides will endeavor to make your stay in Chobe a highlight of any safari. The lodges’ eco-credentials include a natural swimming pool filtered entirely by plants, employment policies, food choices, building methods and a host of otherwise unseen ways in which any negatives to the lodge surroundings or environment are addressed.

Nov 11 - Safari Game Drives in Chobe NP & Village Walk Botswana

After a hearty breakfast, we head out on our first Game Drive.  Elephants, elephants everywhere - Chobe Game Reserve is known for having the most incredible elephant experience in the world! The national park is famous for its abundant lions, leopards, cheetahs, hippos, giraffes, Buffalo, zebras, hyenas, crocs and more. All species are drawn to the River's edge for water along the shores.

Early Morning Game Drive – Grab a bite of continental breakfast before departing into the Chobe Reserve -  This morning, we enter the Chobe Reserve on open game vehicles in search of the Big 5.  Search for the elusive leopard, the wild dog and all while being surrounded by elephants coming down to the water to drink.  Bakwena is the proud owner of six game vehicles allowing extended drives to suit guests and the chance to linger longer at game sightings. Experienced guides with extensive knowledge of the Chobe National Park provide an entertaining and educational addition to your safari.  After the game drive head back to the lodge for a delicious brunch.                        

After lunch, join a guided Village Walk where you get to experience the local way of life.  In the words of Bakwena’s Adam Young, “The cultural exchange is a means for us to break down a social barrier, transforming us into a ‘we’ based community.” Unlike the majority of developing countries, Botswana has no slum areas. Integration rather than segregation is a way of life here just as human and wildlife conflict is reduced through day to day co-existence. There is a tangible sense of integrity that sets this country apart. Bakwena Lodge also has 20 cruise bikes which Bakwena guests are welcome to use to explore the sites and sounds of the village.

Something special here is a guided 

Bicycle Safari Tour as well. It's pedal power for about an hour. Our lodge has 20 cruiser bikes built for comfort for guests to enjoy the sights and sounds of Africa. The sense of personal freedom and space is worth the effort, not to mention the excitement of seeing an elephant in route!

Evening Game Drive –  We gather for tea and a light snack before heading off for our second game-viewing experience this afternoon. Predators are most actively seeking their prey in the evening and it's thrilling as our rangers use spotlights to track the animals.  Get your cameras ready as we head into the Chobe Reserve to be ready to watch the game as they filter down to the river for their last drink of the day before the sun sets.  Head back to the lodge for dinner and rest after an incredible day.

Overnight: Chobe Bakwena Lodge.   View Brochure              Fully Inclusive – Includes accommodation, all meals, laundry, wine, beer, cider and soft drinks, two game activities per day, Chobe National Park entry fees,

 Nov 12 - Sunrise Safari Cruise, Chobe to Zimbabwe, The Wallow at Victoria Falls   

Morning breakfast at the lodge before embarking on the 4 Corners Boat Cruise.   One of the world’s wonders unknown to many is the Kazungula quadripoint. This is where four countries (Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe) meet. It is located at the confluence of the Zambezi and Chobe Rivers in Southern Africa. Kazungula is one of only a few places in the world where the borders of four countries come together at a single point.  It's an extraordinary boat journey to this unique location. As you navigate the pristine waters of the Chobe River, marvel at the breathtaking scenery where Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe come together. This captivating experience offers not only remarkable encounters close up to the wildlife but also the opportunity to witness the intersection of borders, cultures, and natural beauty.

Upon return to the lodge we will check out and transfer by coach to our next destination – the adrenalin capital of Africa, Victoria Falls. Transfer time is approximately 1 ½ hrs depending on border crossing time.

(Visas will be obtained upon arrival at the border – you will request the KAZA Univisa, which gives you unlimited access to Zimbabwe and Zambia – cost is currently $50. Please note this could change and will be advised before you travel)

Welcome to Zimbabwe! A nation of spectacular natural beauty, the friendliest people in such a rich culture.  Arrive at Wallow Lodge, your home for the next 3 nights, in time for a late lunch. Check into our hidden gem, The Wallow, located in the Wild Horizons Wildlife Sanctuary. A birds eye view would show you the blue shimmer of the Masuwe River snaking through a lush green and gold wilderness. It’s punctuated with a gorge where the rapids of the Zambezi river froth 140 m below the edge. The mist of the falls hang like a heavy white cloud above the treetops. The main lodge and “canvas suites” blend seamlessly with the surroundings. This place is high end for distinguished guests who expect attention to detail. So intimate and enchanting. There’s only 16 tented suites with signature style to give you the feel of the classic African safari. Each has a private balcony with decorative themes and luxury bathrooms. This is not just a camp but a luxury wilderness experience!

Victoria Falls - Known to locals as ‘The Smoke That Thunders’ – is one of the seven natural wonders of the world, and the sheer power of this massive body of water plunging into the Zambezi Gorge is awe-inspiring and unforgettable. Set on the magnificent Zambezi River, which creates the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, it is considered to be the world’s widest waterfall, measuring an impressive 1708 meters in width. The small town of Victoria Falls, which lies adjacent to the waterfalls, serves as a great base from which to explore the many attractions on offer. The surrounding area provides a wide range of adrenalin-filled activities for adventure lovers, including scenic flights, micro lighting, white water rafting, bungee jumping, kayaking, and the world-known Devils Pool.

Afternoon Game Drive, Cocktails & Canapés at the Batoka Gorge

Today enjoy your first Game Drive in Zimbabwe. No two game drives in nature are ever the same. Here with over 4500 acres of wilderness, you’ll see plenty of animals, too numerous to mention, as our professional and passionate Safari rangers lead the adventure deep into the bush.

Our Safari is followed by a visit to the stunning Botoka Gorge for sunset views like no other. Enjoy canapés and sundowners, a selection of cocktails here. It’s the perfect place for our AFS group photos at the rim, with the mighty Zambezi Rapids just below.

Nestled among ancient riverine trees, the new 5-star Wallow Lodge is situated in a private concession within the Victoria Falls National Park. Our dedication to eco-friendly practices can be seen throughout the lodge, from our solar-powered water heating system to our use of locally sourced and sustainable materials.  The lodge boasts panoramic views of the Masuwe River, providing a stunning backdrop for our main area, complete with a swimming pool and sunken fireplace on the expansive deck. A short twenty-minute transfer from the camp brings you to the iconic Victoria Falls, where you can experience the thrill of Africa's Adventure Capital.

It's all-inclusive at The Wallow Lodge. You'll enjoy the perfect balance of exclusivity in the bush and eco-friendly luxury.  Our favorite features of this lodge are the spacious lounge & dining area with views of the Masuwe River, fully stocked bar, curio shop & library, Free Wi-Fi in the main complex area, main swimming pool, with deck and fire pit area.  All rooms are river facing and have a private viewing deck, air-conditioning & ceiling fans, indoor & outdoor showers, tea/coffee stations, 220v AC electricity, with a back-up generator, mosquito nets & room safe.

Overnight: The Wallow Lodge - 3 nights  Fully Inclusive –  accommodation, all meals, beverages and shuttle transfer to Victoria Falls town.  View Lodge iBrochure

The Wallow Lodge offers the perfect blend of exclusivity in the wilderness and eco-friendly luxury. Immerse yourself in extraordinary beauty and experience a testament to sustainable tourism.  Wallow Lodge is an eco-friendly gem nestled among ancient riverine trees. Created by Wild Horizons and they embody an unwavering dedication to conservation and sustainable tourism.  It's nestled within Victoria Falls National Park so Wallow Lodge offers an unparalleled experience. Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking panoramic views of the Masuwe River that serve as a stunning backdrop to our main area. Delight in the expansive deck with its inviting swimming pool and sunken fireplace, where you can unwind and savor the tranquility of the surroundings. And just a short twenty-minute transfer from the lodge awaits the world-famous Victoria Falls, allowing you to partake in the exhilarating adventures of Africa's Adventure Capital.

Nov 13 - Victoria Falls and Wildlife Trust Tours

This morning we will head off to view the great Victoria Falls on a guided tour.

Guided Tour of the Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls is one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage site.  On your guided walking tour of the falls, you will have the opportunity to discover the many facets of the magnificent Victoria Falls, including Horseshoe Falls, Rainbow Falls, Boiling Pot and more. Explore the rainforest while learning about the history of the Falls, its geological significance and its flora and fauna. You'll have the opportunity to soak up the beautiful vistas, lush surroundings, magical waterfalls, and the spray of the Falls. It’s always dramatic. The sights and sounds are humbling in this masterpiece of nature.

After the tour of the falls, you will be given some time to browse the local Craft Markets with so many wonderful African masks, batiks, wood carvings, and beaded souvenirs, among others.  We will head back to the lodge for a delicious lunch overlooking the Masuwe River.

No trip to the falls is complete without experiencing a Sunset Cruise on the great Zambezi River. If you have not watched the magnificent sun setting over Africa while the stillness of night creeps in, you have not lived Africa.   The Sunset cruise is very popular and includes finger snacks, beer, wine, local spirits and soft drinks. There are great photo opportunities against often-spectacular African sunsets. Flocks of birds skim the waterline as the sun sets behind the African skyline. Always a favorite in Victoria Falls. At dusk, especially with a full moon, the spray creates rare lunar rainbows or Moonbows over the sky.

Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust Visit -  We focus on creating a space where guests can form a relationship with and learn about the environment they are in. We do this through our partnership with The Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust, located in the Wild Horizons Wildlife Sanctuary adjacent to the lodge. The Trust is a non-profit entity promoting conservation awareness, education, and community empowerment. A tour of the Trust is part of our guest experience. This place fully supports Zimbabwe villages and conservation initiatives so your booking here Gives Back with sustainable tourism.  We will visit the High-Care Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre and Laboratory facilities to learn about innovative conservation initiatives from a team of passionate research and wildlife experts. One never knows what animals may be here from the recently rescued, to those being treated for wounds or rewilding back into the bush. This Trust strives to save all beloved species from extinction.

Overnight: Wallow

Nov 14 -   Free to Play in Zambia & Zimbabwe

Today you have at leisure to explore the many options available. This is the BEST time of year for you to experience the world renowned Devil's Pool on Livingstone Island – only open between November and March. This is also an opportunity to cross over the famous railway bridge connecting the Zimbabwean and Zambian side of the falls. An easy border crossing with the KAZA Univisa. As we cross the bridge we can watch those daring people bungi jumping off the bridge down into the abyss below. Other options include white water rafting, float trips, the Flying Fox, Flight of the Angels, even Makuni Big 5 Lion Walk. Full details will be provided to assist you with booking any activities. Here are the AFS favorites…

Devil’s Pool - LIVINGSTONE ISLAND TOUR AKA DEVIL’S POOL – the most exciting swim in the world! 

Livingstone Island is a 5-8 minutes boat ride from the Royal Livingstone Hotel and is located in the middle of the Zambezi River right on the edge of the Victoria Falls just before the water thunders down a 103 metre drop. To protect the sensitive environment, only 16 guests may visit. It is highly recommended to book a Livingstone Island Tour in advance. After a briefing, your guide will gently escort you to falls edge for the iconic and best Instagram of all photos of your lifetime.

Microlight Flight over the Falls An exhilarating flight over the Victoria Falls, the islands near the Falls and thundering Zambezi River with breathtaking views of the Falls and the spectacular gorge that the Zambezi River has carved into the surrounding landscape over many thousands of years. One person with an experienced pilot take a 30-minute microlight flight to take you over the Victoria Falls, the Batoka Gorge, the Zambezi River and the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park.

Gorge Swing at Zero Gravity!

The Wild Horizons Gorge Swing is a thrilling and mind blowing experience. Leap into the wide-open air as you plunge into the mouth of the Batoka gorge, Victoria Falls. Scream as you break free of the fear and trepidation you felt before you threw yourself off the platform. Imagine swinging in a child's swing in the playground...now imagine a giant swing 95m long and 120m high above water...now imagine a 70m free fall before you begin swinging. Test your courage! It’s a gentler version of a bungee jump.  Our Gorge Swing is suspended across the gorge at a point where the width is 316m and 120m deep. A harness is attached to the jumper and then the jumping ropes, the other end of which is pivoted to the middle of the cable.

Flight of the Angels Helicopter Experience

To put the Victoria Falls into true perspective, they must really be seen from the air. The sheer size and grandeur of the spectacle becomes all the more clearer from above.  The huge Zambezi River flowing slowly south as the water spreads across the full width of a great rent in the earth before crashing over the lip in a burst of spray and then squeezing into a narrow, foaming, blast of water rushing down the zigzag funnel of the gorges.

Back at our luxury Wallow camp, enjoy a Boma Dinner under the stars in authentic old African tribesman style with a delicious barbecue feast and dancing to drums.

Overnight: The Wallow

 Nov 15 -  Fly to South Kruger, Game Drives and Shalti!

Transfer to Victoria Falls airport- approximately an hour for your flight to South Africa. Flight from Vic Falls to Kruger MQP  10:30AM to 12:15PM.

On the the southern most tip of Africa and one of the most culturally and geographically diverse places on earth, fondly known by locals as the 'Rainbow Nation', South Africa boasts 11 official languages, and its inhabitants are influenced by a fascinating mix of cultures. Its untamed wilderness is astonishing: wildlife roams freely across massive unfenced game reserves such as the world-famous Kruger National Park.

On arrival at Kruger Mpumalanga International airport you will be collected and transferred by coach to the world famous Kruger National Park. Transfer time about 2 hours though the park. Keep your eyes focused for the many wild animals along the way.

The vast Kruger National Park is a tract of land nearly 20 000 square kilometres ( 7722 square miles) , allowing the wildlife to live in a protected space and follow their old migratory routes. More recently it has become part of the Greater Limpopo Transfrontier Park, an international collaboration joining the Limpopo Park in Mozambique and the Gonarezhou Park in Zimbabwe. As a result, animals can now move freely across international borders as they would have done for thousands of years.

Check into the fabulous Kruger Shalati, voted by Conde Nast as one of the most exciting luxury hotels in the world.  Everyone is talking about it! On arrival, we'll be welcomed with high tea before heading out on our evening Game Driveinto Kruger. Early morning and evening game drives are the best time of day to view the game as they are most active before the heat of the day. Track the lion as they hunt for prey, spend time with the elephant and search for the elusive leopard and wild dog.

8PM back to lodge for dinner.  Kruger Shalati guests enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner and high tea daily with all drinks included. The food is truly exceptional and meals seem to roll from one gourmet meal to another, all served on a beautiful deck. Watch out for the monkeys.

Overnight: Kruger Shalati      View iBrochure

Fully Inclusive – accommodation, all meals and local brand beverages, two game activities daily with National park fees included.

Permanently stationed on the historically-rich Selati Bridge above the Sabie River in the iconic Kruger National Park, Kruger Shalati offers the most unique luxury accommodation in a re-envisioned train.

The train carriage rooms are designed to ensure breathtaking views and comfort. Each room is designed with local art and crafts to celebrate Africa's beautiful designs. Our vintage rooms are perched over the Sabi River as wildlife roams freely below. There are no fences here. Animals are drawn for the water. (“As I soaked in a bath, I saw herds of ellies pass below me.”)  Aligned with the floor level of the train lies a deck with a pool, offering guests the unique experience of taking a dip while watching crocodiles, hippos and elephants just meters below. Book your spa treatments on arrival to enjoy a massage in your room ( additional cost).

Overnight: Kruger Shalati    B, L, D  View iBrochure

Nov 16 – Safaris in Kruger National Park

Spend the day exploring Kruger on an early morning game drive and evening game drive. You never know what is around the corner, but Kruger is never dull.

The southern area of South Africa’s most famous game reserve, the Kruger National Pak, is separated from lush farmland by the Crocodile River, a popular area to spot crocodiles, playful hippos and thirsty wildlife. The game viewing area is known as the ‘Southern Circle’ and is renowned for its rhinos and lions, with different prides boasting an array of different hunting techniques and behaviors to observe. Near the Hippo Pool, visitors can view ancient San rock paintings. The Southern Kruger offers incredible game-viewing opportunities and magnificent landscapes covered in African bushveld and savannah.

Enjoy the time in between drives relaxing around the pool or simply sitting on your deck hovering over the great Sabie River, watching the game come to you.  Shalati includes accommodation, all meals and local brand beverages, two game activities daily.

Overnight: Kruger Shalati    B, L, D  View Brochure

Nov 17 - Kruger National Park

Early morning game drive as we use the Sporrer to track what's happening overnight and watches the game come close to the water holes to drink before the heat of the day. Return to the lodge for another breakfast feast.  Afternoon free to enjoy the amenities or consider an optional visit to Elephant Whispers.  At 4 PM, another Game Drive. The symphony of sounds at night with twinkling stars above is truly an immersive experience to awaken our five senses. Our expert Rangers with spotlights point out things we don't see. Predators are active and anything can happen in the bush. Last year our group was awestruck when two leopards jumped in their jeep!

This evening you’ll be treated to an incredible Boma Dinner, a traditional feast served in the open air along with singers and dancers celebrating the beat and rhythm of Africa. It’s the perfect farewell for our Africa journey well done.

Now 18 -  Game Drive, Flight Kruger to Jo’burg and Departure

 After early breakfast, enjoy your last Game Drive before being transferred Skukuza Airport for your flight back to Johannesburg.

Fly Airlink – SZK to JNB  1:35PM – 2:40PM.  Note there are no international flights departing Johannesburg before 6 PM. So the timing is perfect for all to make your connections home. Some may want to extend elsewhere post trip.

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