Call Us
8:00am - 17:00PM
18 Days Desert and Wilderness
18 Days Desert and Wilderness
You will on this 18 Days Desert and Wilderness Safari be treated to the highlights of a classical Namibian Safari, including the Namib Naukluft Park and Sossusvlei, the southern Skeleton Coast, Namibia’s premier coastal holiday town, Swakopmund, and the Etosha National Park. Proceed to Johannesburg for a brief overnight to continue to the South-Luangwa Valley and the Lower Zambezi.
Highlights
- Get your jungle gear on because it's time to go on an African Safari.
- Explore the beautiful countries of Namibia and Zambia on this tour.
- This wilderness safari trip through Zambia will cover Victoria Falls, Livingstone Adventures, Zambezi white water rafting, and South Luangwa National Park among other places.
Route & Itinerary
11 Days / 10 Nights
1
Day 1:
On arrival at the Windhoek Airport you will be welcomed by a company representative and assisted onto your charter flight. Departure by seat on a charter flight on route to the Namib Desert and Sossusvlei. Midday arrival, including lunch, before conducting a late afternoon nature drive excursion in safari vehicles. Overnight accommodation will be at the Kulala Desert Lodge OR Kulala Wilderness Camp on a dinner, bed & breakfast basis. Situated on over 21,0000 ha of private property and bordering the Namib Naukluft Park, Little Kulala lies in the heart of the Namib Desert on the western side of the Kulala Wilderness Reserve and offers magnificent views of the famous red dunes of Sossusvlei as well as magnificent mountainous scenery and vast open plains. Eight thatched and canvas chalets or "Kulalas" (Swahili for "resting place") with en suite bathrooms are set on wooden platforms to provide maximum airflow. As an option for outdoor enthusiasts, bedrolls are provided for the rooftop to sleep under the stars from a private star gazing platform. The central lodge provides a lounge, pub, dining area and plunge pool all with a view of the dunes.
2
Day 2-3:
This morning will be spent conducting an early morning excursion in safari vehicles to the Namib Naukluft Park to the famed Namib Sand Sea and to the magnificent Sossusvlei dunes. Departure is before dawn to appreciate the breathtaking desert colours as the sun rises. Once in the desert optional excursions are conducted on foot to photograph the dune landscape and the desert ecology or to climb some of the highest known dunes in the world. A light breakfast is served under the spreading Camel Thorn acacia trees (Acacia eriloba) before returning to the lodge by midday. During the afternoon conduct a nature drive activity on the property, taking in the desert scenery with its unique fauna and flora. This is not a game rich area due to the harsh environment, however, what game is seen is interesting and dramatized by the contrast between desert and the magnificent animals like Springbok, Oryx and Ostrich who survive and eke out an existence on these arid plains. Overnight accommodation will be at the Kulala Desert Lodge OR Kulala Wilderness Camp on a fully inclusive basis.
3
Day 4:
After a leisurely breakfast continue via seat on a charter flight crossing the Namib Sand Sea on route to the coastal town of Swakopmund. This route includes a scenic flight along the “Skeleton Coast” viewing the “Edward Bohlen (1909)” and “Shaunee (1976)” shipwrecks and Sandwich Harbour. On arrival in Swakopmund you will be met by a company representative and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the afternoon will be at leisure to explore Namibia’s premier coastal resort. Founded in 1892 during the period of German colonial rule it served as the territory’s main harbour for years. Today this quaint town nestled between desert and ocean is enhanced by lush green lawns, palm trees and carefully tended gardens. There is a good selection of restaurants and coffee shops selling traditional German cakes and pastries. Overnight accommodation will be at the Hansa Hotel (similar) on a bed and breakfast basis only. What you would never expect in the world's oldest desert, Namibia's finest and oldest Hotel. Hansa Hotel - nestling in the very centre of the charming little town of Swakopmund, wrapped in the shape of a timelessly classical building dating from 1905, an integral part of Swakopmund's architectural heritage, offers you a feeling of being enveloped in a luxurious and sophisticated hospitality with a satisfying blend of both classic atmosphere and truly elegant interior, matched with friendly and personalized service. In recognition of the outstanding quality of selection and interest of wines featured in our wine list, we have also been awarded the prestigious Diners Club Platinum Award
4
Day 5:
After breakfast transfer to the airport for tour flight towards the renowned Etosha National Park and the Ongava Lodge OR Ongava Tented Camp. Arrival by midday for lunch and to conduct a late afternoon game viewing drive activity in open safari vehicles on the 30 000ha Ongava Ranch. Adjacent to the Etosha National Park, the Ongava Ranch is stocked with a selection of game species, including Black and White Rhino, Leopard, Lion and Waterbuck. Overnight accommodation will be at Ongava Lodge on a fully inclusive basis. The Ongava Lodge is situated on the private 30,000-hectare Ongava Game Reserve and shares a common border with the Etosha National Park. The lodge offers the full Etosha experience while providing great accommodation and service, as well as the opportunity to take night drives and nature walks on the reserve, activities that are not allowed within the Etosha National Park. The Ongava Lodge has 10 chalets, which are attractively built out of brick and thatch close to the top of a hill. All your comforts are taken care of. Each chalet has an en suite bathroom, bath, shower and double hand basins. There is air conditioning in the rooms and overhead fans. The rooms have glass-fronted doors which lead out onto a private covered verandah overlooking the bush. The main lounge, bar and dining area is also under thatch with wonderful views across the plains and floodlit waterhole below. Outdoor dining under the stars, whilst viewing game drinking at the waterhole is something never to be forgotten. There is also a swimming pool and a large curio shop stocking a good selection of "African Gifts and branded safari clothing".
5
Day 6:
Game drives will be undertaken into Etosha National Park and on the Ongava Reserve. Guided walks with armed ranger are offered on the property as well as night drives. Today’s Etosha National Park was proclaimed as Namibia’s first conservation area in 1907 by the then German government and is one of the largest game reserves in Africa. Consisting of saline desert, savannah and woodlands, its definitive feature is the Etosha Pan, a vast shallow depression. For the greater part of the year the pan is a bleak expanse of white, cracked mud which, on most days shimmers with mirages. Seeing vast herds of game against this eerie backdrop, referred to in the local vernacular as the ‘great white place of dry water’, makes the Etosha game-viewing a unique experience. Of the 114 mammal species found in the park, several are rare and endangered, such as black rhino, cheetah and black-faced impala. Etosha’s current population of more than 700 black rhino represents one of the few growing populations of black rhino in the world. About 340 bird species occur in Etosha, about one third being migratory. For the greater part of the year (the dry season) Etosha’s animals and birds are dependent on about 30 springs and waterholes. These provide excellent game viewing and photographic opportunities. During the rainy season, especially the bird life at the main pan and Fischer’s Pan is worth viewing. Overnight at Ongava Lodge OR Ongava Tented Camp on a fully inclusive basis.
6
Day 7:
After a leisurely breakfast you will be transferred to the airfield for your return seat on a charter flight to the Windhoek Airport where you will connect with your regional flight to Johannesburg. Upon arrival of your flight at Johannesburg International Airport you will be met by an Falcon-safaris representative who will transfer you to the Metcourt Laurel Hotel, five minutes away from the airport. One overnight at the Metcourt Laurel Hotel in a standard double room with private en-suite facilities on a bed and breakfast basis
7
Day 8-9:
After breakfast, depart on a scheduled flight to Livingstone, departing at 11:15. Check-in for this flight is two hours prior to arrival. Upon arrival of your flight at Livingstone Airport you will be met by a representative of Islands of Siankaba and transferred to the lodge for check-in. Known as The Jewel of the Zambezi and perfectly placed just upstream between the Victoria Falls and the Chobe National Park, the Islands of Siankaba emphasizes exclusivity, luxury and high standards.The lodge is situated on two densely forested sand islands in the Zambezi River. The Islands of Siankaba have been developed as a luxury five star lodge accommodating just twelve guests. The two islands are linked by a wooden and rope suspension bridge, leading to an overhead walkway in the tree canopy connecting the elevated chalets to Dining room, Bar and lounge. There are six comfortable, private and elegant chalets situated on the small Falcon, while the larger Falcon houses the dining room lounge and swimming pool. All chalets are equipped with an en-suite bathroom, ball and claw bath and separate shower, mini bar, large mosquito nets, ceiling fan and private safe. They are raised above ground level into the tree canopy and their balconies extend out over the river. This unique position means that you can see everything the area has to offer while relaxing in the comfort of your chalet. The staff here offers an informal, friendly and highly personalised service. Afternoon tea is served daily on the main lodge decking, allowing one to enjoy magnificent views of the mighty Zambezi River. The shade forest canopy that surrounds the swimming pool is an ideal place to relax and enjoy an afternoon drink. The up-market African dining room and lounge offers a unique experience of comfort and relaxation in a truly African setting. There is a wide choice of activities, which compliments the attractions of this elegant camp. Among the activities are romantic boat cruises, cultural visits to the nearby village, trips to Victoria Falls and Livingstone, walking safaris, helicopter and micro-light flights to name a few. Islands of Siankaba are so comfortable that you might decide to spend your days lazing around the pool or in the comfort of your chalet. 2 x Overnights at the Islands of Siankaba in a standard double room with private en-suite facilities inclusive of all meals, all local brand drinks & house windes, 1 x falls trip, laundry, sundown cruise, mokoro trips, nature trail and village/school walk
8
Day 10:
You will be transferred to Livingstone Airport in time for your scheduled flight to Mfuwe Airport. Upon arrival at the airport you will be met by a representative of the lodge and transferred to the lodge for check-in. Mfuwe Lodge, overlooks a beautiful oxbow lagoon in Zambia's South Luangwa National Park.It provides its guests with a special glimpse of Africa as it once was - untouched, unspoiled and unforgettable. Accommodation is provided in 18 open-plan chalets, each with en-suite bathroom. One third of each chalet's perimeter can be opened, to allow the guest to enjoy the views, the sounds, the scents and the mood of the African wilderness. Each chalet has a large private deck overlooking one of the lagoons. The bathrooms have both bath and shower, with separate toilet. Each chalet provides 24-hour electricity and is equipped with a ceiling fan, refrigerator, tea and coffee making facilities, mosquito nets, en-suite facilities with double vanities, separate toilets and a sunken bath with integral shower. One third of each chalet's perimeter can be opened, to allow the guest to enjoy the views, the sounds, the scents and the mood of the African wilderness. Each chalet has a large private deck overlooking one of the lagoons. To maintain the lodge's tranquil setting, none of the rooms have telephones or radios; however, the camp does maintain contact with the outside world via email, telephone and fax services which are available upon request. Activities at Mfuwe Lodge: - Day and night game drives; - Lion and leopard are often seen. - Walking safaris Bird watching opportunities 5 x Overnights at Mfuwe Lodge in a standard double room with private en-suite facilities inclusive of all meals, park fees, game-viewing activities, laundry, government taxes and service charge. (Rate excludes drinks taken from the bar)
9
Day 15:
You will be transferred back to Mfuwe Airport in time for your flight back to Lusaka. Upon arrival at Lusaka Airport you will be met by a representative of Kanyemba Lodge in the Lower Zambezi and transferred to the lodge for check-in.
10
Day 18:
You will be transferred by road back to Lusaka Airport.
Included
- Seat in charter flights between points as indicated
- Meals & accommodation as described in the itinerary
- All ground transportation
- Scheduled activities & excursions as described in the itinerary
- Government bed levies
- 15% VAT
Excluded
- Any items of a personal nature i.e. telephone, laundry & curios
- Additional meals & beverages
- Gratuities & portages
- Optional extra excursions & activities
- Any items not mentioned in the itinerary
- International Flights
- Visa fees & applications
- Personal Travel & baggage Insurance
- Change of Itinerary whilst on tour
Quotation Request
We Think You'll Love
We are thrilled to help you plan your perfect safari holiday
We'd be delighted to help you with any questions you have about properties & safaris. Please fill in the form below so that we can help you create your perfect safari holiday.
Or
Contact Us
Feel free to give us a call or send us an e-mail:
Start Planning Your Tailored African Safari
Expert Safari Knowledge
With decades of expertise, we're your trusted safari guides, ensuring every moment exceeds your expectations.
Tailor-made African Safaris
Tailored to your preferences, our African Safaris guarantee an adventure perfectly suited to your desires.
Long-term Relationships
Our enduring partnerships across Africa provide exclusive access and authentic experiences.
Carefree Travel
Leave your worries behind and accept carefree travel with Falcon Safaris, where every detail is handled to perfection.
Our Travelers Say
We travelled with Falcon Safaris in Zimbabwe and Botswana for 16 days. Falcon designed a wonderful trip with private guide to the most interesting sites in both countries. The organization of the whole trip was excellent, flights within the country, accommodation and activites. The guides were very knowledgable and told us a lot about the countries, their history, people, economy and much more. We visited the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, the Victoria Falls Tour and a number of national parks in both countries.
Rhino tracking was a real adventure! We had tremendous further game drives and saw very many animals - we did the Big Five. We had much more Victoria Falls Activities than planned and enjoyed very much.We strongly recommend Falcon Safaris to everyone planning a trip to Southern Africa and East Africa.
Wonderful trip to Zimbabwe and Botswana with excellent organization and very competent guides
Our Consultant Vimbai was very helpful and accommodating. We stayed at the Elephant hills hotel which was nothing short of amazing.Our activities included a helicopter flight, dinner cruise as well as a morning game drive. All the activities were absolutely amazing.
Exceptional!
We worked with Gertrude to schedule and organize everything and she did an excellent job. I asked a lot of questions via e-mail and she answered everyone in a timely helpful manner. Our guide at Victoria Falls was also great. He met us at the airport, provided a thoughtful tour of the Falls and got us to our next guide in Botswana. Our lodgings at River View Lodge were just as described- very comfortable and excellent food. All the staff were so pleasant and helpful. If I had to do it again I would arrange a morning boat ride as well. We only did the sunset boat rides and they were the high point of our entire trip- we saw so many animals and our guide was very knowledgeable. Just a great experience. Our lodgings at Oddball's Enclave was rustic and we loved it. So great to disconnect from the world for a bit. Leo, our guide, was the best - got us out and about, saw fantastic wildlife and got back to camp safely each time. Doc manages the camp so well. This whole trip was planned and organized by Falcon Safaris and we could not have been happier.
Fabulous, well planned trip
Falcon safaris have given my the correct advice with excellent service. The only suggestion will be to work closer with the lodges to confirm bookings as soon as possible. We have booked and pay our deposit a year in advance. We have only receive our final convermation from Chobe Safari lodge a week before departure. I do realize its not within your controle but with limit alternatives and a group of 14 people it becomes an issue to find alternative accomodation if the booking was cancelled.
Excellent and efficient service
Explore Our Africa With Customize Your Tour
We love Africa's diversity and create amazing trips for you. With 30+ years of experience, we customize every trip just for you.