9 Days Elephant Encounters Safari

Day 1

On arrival at Johannesburg International Airport, you will be met in the Arrivals Hall by our Johannesburg representative. He will be holding a board with your names on it, and will show you to the check-in counter for your onward flight to Livingstone Airport in Zambia.

At Livingstone Airport, you will be met by a representative of Chundukwa River Lodge, who will transfer you by road to the lodge, 20 minute drive from Victoria Falls in the peace and seclusion of the Zambian side of the Zambezi. Chundukwa River Lodge is small and away from the crowds and has a real ‘bush’ feel.

Chundukwa River Lodge accommodates just 10 people in 5 chalets on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River.

Your stay at Chundukwa is fully inclusive of all your meals and drinks, as well as a sunset boat cruise and a guided tour of the Victoria Falls (including entrance fee).

Day 2

Enjoy a morning or afternoon elephant interaction and safari close to Chundukwa River Lodge.

This is an unforgettable experience where you will interact with the elephants and enjoy a ride on their backs as they roam in the bush, browsing, playing, socializing, and sometimes swimming!

Whilst on the ride, you will enjoy some of Victoria Fall’s most pristine scenery – and may see another wild elephant, buffalo, giraffes, zebra, wildebeest, and a host of other plains game. Along the Zambezi River, hippo and crocodile are also common and there is a wide variety of bird species.

The ride is approximately one hour and the overall interaction time with the elephants is about 3 hours.

Day 3

After breakfast, you will be transferred in a private air-conditioned vehicle to Elephant Valley Lodge in Botswana (approx. 2 hours).

Elephant Valley Lodge lies south of the Kazangula border crossing with the Kasane Forest Reserve, which is adjacent to the Chobe National Park. The camp comprises 20 ‘menu-style luxury safari tents and can accommodate a maximum of 40 guests. Each of the tents features an en-suite shower and toilet, mini-safe, and fan. Your tent also ensures that you are able to hear the multitude of night sounds as you drift away with vivid thoughts of the experiences of your days on safari.

Day 4-5

Elephant Valley Lodge is well situated around a waterhole that is well frequented by elephants, although the perimeter is fenced to keep the elephants from moving through the camp. Instead, now they move around the camp boundary, along their well-worn paths to and from the Chobe River.

Enjoy the game viewing activities offered – 4×4 safaris, boat cruises, and night drives – or just relax in camp and watch the wildlife congregating at the waterhole.

Accommodation at Elephant Valley Lodge includes all meals and safari activities but excludes drinks.

Day 6

After an early morning game drive followed by breakfast, you will be transferred to Kasane Airport, where you will be met by your pilot who will fly you to Stanley’s Camp. This is an awesome experience in itself as you fly over the delta and see the larger animals below (have your cameras ready!)

Guest accommodation at Stanley’s Camp consists of 8 classic-styled safari tents. The delicately appointed tents exude classic Africa; handcrafted beds dressed with the finest linen, antique furniture individually selected and oriental carpets that transport you to early 19th century Africa. Each unit offers en-suite facilities and a private balcony. Hammocks and Morris chairs on the balcony are perfect for relaxation in the African sunshine.

The main building is raised on decking and offers extensive views over the surrounding floodplains. Stanley’s is carefully blended into the existing tree line, its main support being a large sausage tree.

Day 7 -8

Stanley’s Camp is famous for its Elephant Experience, where you will spend time walking and interacting with a herd of semi-habituated elephants. This is a unique and educational experience as you walk with the elephants and observe them up close in their natural environment.

Stanley’s Camp offers some of the best game viewings in the Okavango, including the rare and elusive wild dog. Other activities available at Stanley’s Camp include serene mokoro canoe excursions (subject to water levels), exclusive bush dinners, and game drives in customized, open 4 x 4 vehicles – including the rare opportunity of night drives.

Due to the fact that Stanley’s Camp is in a private concession, guests also have the exclusive option of walking safaris with an armed professional guide.

Your stay at Stanley’s Camp is fully inclusive of all meals and drinks, as well as your game activities.

Day 9

Another early morning game activity, brunch, and then back to the airstrip for your flight to Maun Airport, in time for your scheduled Air Botswana flight, departing Maun at 15h00 and arriving in Johannesburg at 16h40.