9-Days Nine-Day Zambian Big Five Explorer

Welcome to Maun, your safari gateway! Upon arrival at Maun Airport, you'll be met by your Great Safaris guide and transferred to your accommodation. Settle in and attend a pre-safari briefing to learn about the week ahead, wildlife safety, and your fellow adventurers. Spend the afternoon relaxing or exploring the local area to acclimatize before your African adventure begins.

Enter the world's largest inland delta as you journey into the Okavango's pristine waters and islands. This day combines game drives with traditional mokoro (canoe) excursions, offering unique perspectives of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spot water buffalo, hippos, elephants, and diverse birdlife as your experienced guide navigates through papyrus channels and lagoons. Camp under the stars in this remote wilderness.

Venture into the exclusive Khwai Concession, a private reserve renowned for exceptional wildlife density and Big Five sightings. Full-day game drives maximize your chances of encountering lions, leopards, African buffalo, elephants, and rhinoceros. Your guide's expertise combined with the concession's abundant game makes this an unforgettable day. Return to camp for an evening briefing and dinner under the African sky.

Travel to Chobe National Park, home to Africa's largest elephant concentration with over 120,000 roaming the landscape. Experience thrilling game drives through diverse habitats including savanna, woodland, and riverine areas. Late afternoon brings the highlight: a sunset river cruise along the Chobe River where elephants, buffalo, hippos, and countless birds congregate for water. This is safari at its most spectacular.

Dedicate another full day to Chobe's wonders with comprehensive game viewing across different zones. Morning and afternoon game drives take you through prime wildlife areas where lions, hyenas, wild dogs, and numerous antelope species thrive. The riverfront habitat provides exceptional birdwatching opportunities with over 450 species recorded in the park. Your guide shares fascinating insights into animal behavior and ecosystem dynamics.

Depart Chobe and travel to the magnificent Victoria Falls, one of the world's seven natural wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The journey takes approximately 3-4 hours through scenic landscapes. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation and prepare for an evening exploration of the falls. Witness the thundering cascade as mist rises dramatically, creating rainbow displays in the late afternoon light.

Experience Victoria Falls beyond the viewpoints with optional adventure activities (at additional cost). Choose from thrilling options including bungee jumping, white-water rafting, helicopter flights, or leisurely guided walks through the rainforest. Alternatively, spend the day at multiple viewpoints photographing this natural wonder from different angles and learning about its geology and history. Your guide can arrange any preferred activities.

Cross into Zambia and explore lesser-known attractions that showcase the region's rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. Visit local communities and learn about traditional ways of life, or undertake additional game drives in nearby reserves. This flexible day allows your guide to customize experiences based on group interests. Enjoy authentic Zambian hospitality and cuisine while reflecting on your safari adventures.

On your final day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and reflect on your incredible nine-day adventure. Transfer to Victoria Falls Airport for your departure flight, or extend your stay to explore more of this remarkable region. Your Great Safaris guide will bid you farewell, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Africa's most iconic destinations, remarkable wildlife encounters, and the camaraderie built with fellow travelers.