10-Day Victoria Falls & Okavango Delta Safari

A Victoria Falls and Botswana safari offers exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities across multiple ecosystems. In Chobe National Park, you'll encounter large elephant herds, buffalo, lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, and numerous antelope species. The Okavango Delta is renowned for its diverse birdlife, wild dogs, hippos, crocodiles, and seasonal concentrations of predators and herbivores. Elephant Sands offers intimate encounters with elephants, particularly during the dry season when they visit waterholes. The variety depends on the season you visit, with dry seasons (May-October) typically offering the best game viewing as animals congregate around water sources.

The best time to visit depends on your priorities. For wildlife viewing, the dry season from May to October offers exceptional game drives as animals congregate around water sources and vegetation is sparse, making spotting easier. July to September is peak season with the most dramatic wildlife encounters. For birdwatching and lush landscapes, the green season from November to April is ideal, though some areas may be less accessible. For water activities in the Okavango Delta, April to October provides the most water when the annual flood arrives. Victoria Falls is most spectacular during the high water season (April-June) when water volume is greatest, creating dramatic mist and roaring cascades.

A 10-day safari itinerary typically includes multiple game drives throughout the duration, usually spanning early morning and afternoon/evening sessions. With professional safari guides conducting all game drives as part of the package, you can expect daily opportunities for wildlife viewing across different locations—Victoria Falls, Chobe National Park, Elephant Sands, and the Okavango Delta. Early morning drives (5:30-9:00 AM) are often most productive as animals are active, while evening drives (4:00-7:30 PM) offer chances to spot nocturnal species and experience stunning African sunsets. The exact number varies by itinerary, but a 10-day package typically includes 15-20 game drive sessions.

Visa requirements depend on your nationality and the countries you're visiting. Victoria Falls is located in Zimbabwe, while Chobe National Park, Elephant Sands, and the Okavango Delta are in Botswana. Most Western nationalities receive visa-free entry or can obtain visas on arrival in Botswana for stays under 90 days. Zimbabwe visa requirements vary by nationality—some visitors receive 30-day visa-free entry, while others must apply in advance. It's essential to check the current requirements with the Zimbabwean and Botswanan embassies or consulates in your country well before travel, as policies can change. Your travel insurance and documentation should be arranged accordingly.

Pack neutral-colored, lightweight clothing for game drives (khaki, tan, olive, and muted greens help you blend into the landscape). Bring long sleeves and pants for sun protection and insect defense, especially during evening drives. Essential items include a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, insect repellent, and a light rain jacket for the green season. Comfortable walking shoes and closed-toe boots are crucial for game drives and walking safaris. For Victoria Falls activities, pack quick-dry clothing and a waterproof bag. Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting, a camera with extra batteries and memory cards, and any personal medications. Nights can be cool, so include a fleece or light sweater. Check with your operator about specific recommendations, as packing requirements vary by season and accommodation type.

Victoria Falls and Botswana are generally considered safe destinations for safari tourism. Botswana has a stable political environment and well-established tourism infrastructure with professional guides and operators. However, like any travel destination, standard safety precautions apply: avoid displaying valuable items, stay aware of your surroundings in urban areas, and follow your guide's instructions during game drives and wildlife activities. Wildlife encounters are managed by experienced professional guides who understand animal behavior and safety protocols. It's advisable to check current travel advisories from your government before booking, obtain comprehensive travel insurance, and ensure your vaccinations are up to date. Consult your healthcare provider about recommended vaccinations for the region, as malaria is present in some areas.

A typical 10-day safari package includes park entrance fees, all game drives with professional safari guides, airport transfers, accommodation at specified lodges, meals as indicated in your itinerary, and drinking water provided in the vehicle during drives. Professional guiding ensures you get expert knowledge about wildlife, ecosystems, and local culture. However, international flights to and from the region are not included, so you'll need to arrange these separately. The package also excludes visa fees, travel insurance (which is highly recommended), tips and gratuities for guides and staff, personal expenses, and alcoholic beverages. Budget separately for these items, and clarify with your operator exactly which meals are included and whether they cover all beverages beyond water.

The cost of a 10-day Victoria Falls and Botswana safari varies significantly based on accommodation quality, season, and operator. Budget safaris with basic lodge accommodations typically range from $2,500-$4,000 USD per person, while mid-range packages with comfortable lodges cost $4,000-$7,000 USD. Luxury safari experiences with high-end camps and exclusive experiences can exceed $10,000 USD per person. Prices are often lower during the green season (November-April) and higher during peak dry season (July-September). Keep in mind that international flights, travel insurance, visa fees, meals not specified in the package, tips, and personal expenses are additional costs not included in the base price. Request detailed quotes from multiple operators to compare what's included and find the best value for your budget.

Yes, Victoria Falls can be explored on foot through designated walking trails that offer spectacular views of this natural wonder. The Victoria Falls National Park has several viewpoints accessible via walking paths, allowing you to experience the immense scale of the falls, the mist, and the roaring sound of water cascading over the cliff. Beyond walking, Victoria Falls offers numerous adventure activities including helicopter tours for aerial perspectives, white-water rafting in the Zambezi River below the falls, bungee jumping from the Victoria Falls Bridge, and guided nature walks. Some visitors also enjoy visiting local craft markets and learning about the region's geology and indigenous history. The specific activities available depend on your package inclusions and personal preferences, so confirm with your operator what's covered and what requires additional payment.

The Okavango Delta is one of Africa's most unique ecosystems—an inland delta in northern Botswana where the Okavango River spreads into a vast wetland rather than flowing to the ocean. This creates a lush oasis in the semi-arid Kalahari, supporting extraordinary wildlife concentrations and diverse habitats including papyrus swamps, lagoons, and islands. The delta is famous for safaris because it offers exceptional wildlife viewing in pristine wilderness, with large populations of elephants, buffalo, lions, wild dogs, and over 400 bird species. The seasonal flood (April-October) brings abundant water, attracting animals from surrounding areas. Activities include traditional mokoro (canoe) excursions through narrow waterways for intimate wildlife encounters, game drives, walking safaris, and birdwatching. The combination of water-based and land-based experiences makes the Okavango Delta one of the world's premier safari destinations, offering a more exclusive and immersive experience than many other African parks.