Larks & Deserts, birding the southern Namibian Biomes & Deserts
Larks & Deserts, birding the southern Namibian Biomes & Deserts; Individual Ornithology & Nature Photography Tour in Southern Namibia
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Yellow Throated Leaflove / Gelbkehlbülbül / Gelbkehl Ufer Bül
Slaty Egret / Braunkehlreiher
Pel's Fishing Owl / Bindenfischeule
Benguela Long-billed Lark / Benguela Langscchnabellerche
White-backed Vulture / Weißrückengeier
African Swamphen / Smaragdhuhn
Secretarybird / Sekretär
Rüppell's Korhaan / Rüppelltrappe
Acacia Pied Barbet / Rotstirnbartvogel
Rufous-eared Warbler / Rotohrsänger
Great White Pelican / Rosapelikan
Common Ostrich / Strauss
Tractrac Chat / Oranjeschmätzer
Tractrac Chat / Oranjeschmätzer
Lappet-faced Vulture / Ohrengeier
Monteiros Hornbill / Monteirotoko / Fleckentoko
White-tailed Shrike / Erdschnäpper
Hartlaub's Spurfowl / Hartlaubfrankolin
Rockrunner / Klippensänger
Dune Lark / Dünenlerche
Bokmakierie / Bokmakiriwürger
Cape Shoveler / Kaplöffelente
Dune Lark / Dünenlerche
Racket Tailed Roller / Spatelracke
Rock Pratincole / Halsband Brachschwalbe
Pink Billed Lark / Rotschnabellerche
Burchell's Courser / Rostrennvogel
Bronze Winged Courser / Amethystrennvogel
Kunden Auf Dünenlerchensuche In Den Dünen Der Namib
Avifauna Namibia: The Ultimate Birding Tour
You are here:
Expert-Guided Birding & Wildlife Safari
A journey through breathtaking landscapes and exceptional wildlife encounters—from the Namib Desert and Atlantic coast, across the Erongo Mountains, Etosha National Park, and the Okavango, all the way to the Delta Panhandle and the majestic Victoria Falls.
Overview
This individually designed safari is tailored to meet your specific needs, expectations, time frame, and budget. Whether you’re a serious birder, photographer, or wildlife enthusiast, the itinerary can be fully customized to ensure exceptional encounters in Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes.
Every habitat on this safari, covering the full diversity of Namibia’s landscapes, offers a remarkable array of birds, small creatures, iconic African mammals, and stunning botanical scenery!
A Journey Through All of Namibia’s Biomes:
The Acacia Savannah of the Central Khomas Highlands
The world’s highest dunes, acacia-lined dry riverbeds, lichen fields, and gravel plains of the Namib Desert
The Atlantic coastline, sandy beaches, and the tidal flats of Walvis Bay Lagoon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
The granite domes and volcanic landscapes of
Spitzkoppe and Erongo – a paradise for endemic species
Etosha National Park, with its Mopane savannah, contact springs, Tamboti woodlands, and saltbush plains
Miombo woodlands, Jackalberry and Manketti forests, papyrus-lined floodplains, lagoons, and wetlands of the Okavango, Zambezi, and Chobe – showcasing an extraordinary diversity of flora and fauna, unmatched by most African countries.
Victoria Falls, a small but enchanting spray-forest full of surprises!
The Best Time for Unforgettable Birdwatching in Namibia
Why October to March?
We carefully plan our tours during the seasons when Namibia’s birdlife is at its most diverse—a time when not only the country’s resident species are thriving, but also numerous intra-African and Palearctic migratory birds enrich the landscape. Our goal is to offer you the widest possible variety of species through high-quality birding experiences.
Namibia’s summer begins in September, as the first migratory birds return from their wintering grounds. By October, more species arrive from Central Africa and the Northern Hemisphere, significantly expanding the country’s bird diversity. As temperatures rise sharply from November, the peak summer heat makes December and January less ideal for travel, which is why we offer only limited departures during these months.
The Namibian summer lasts until April. From January to March, rainfall from the Indian Ocean brings seasonal showers, most notably in the northern and eastern regions. Many bird species respond nomadically to these rains, making February to April a particularly exciting period for birding. However, heavy rains can occasionally impact road conditions in certain areas.
In exceptional rainy years, which occur every few years, the Kalahari becomes an outstanding birding destination, as nomadic species flourish in response to the abundant water supply.
In summary: The best months to experience, observe, and photograph Namibia’s birdlife in all its diversity are from mid-October, November, February, March, and mid-April.
Highlights
- Diverse Habitats in One Journey – Explore Namibia’s full range of biomes
- Best Time for Birding optimal sightings of resident, intra-African, and Palearctic migratory birds
- Exclusive Wildlife Encounters – Spot Lions, Elephants, Cheetahs, Sable Antelope, and the rare Black Rhino
- Private Group, Top Guide – Travel with an intimate group led by an experienced guide with decades of birding expertise. 350 species guaranteed
- Rare & Iconic Bird Species – Seek out Pel’s Fishing Owl, Dune Lark (Namibia’s only endemic bird), Schalow’s Turaco, African Finfoot, and Rufous-bellied Tit
- Photographer’s Dream Safari
- Exclusive Boat Safaris
- Comfortable, Well-Located Lodges
- Iconic Natural & Scenic Landmarks
- Smooth Logistics & Easy Transfers
Accommodation
All accommodations on this trip provide the essential comfort of upper-middle-class standards, featuring “en suite” bathrooms. Furthermore, their strategic locations are chosen to enhance your wildlife viewing experience and optimize route planning for the extensive driving distances in Namibia.
Map
Overview
Detailed itinerary
Day 1
fly by night, bird by day…
- 1 overnight stay near Windhoek in the acacia savannah of the Khomas Highlands, with excellent access to various birding hotspots
inclusive:
- Dinner, Bed & Breakfast
Birdlife in the Khomas Highland
A variety of habitats…
After arriving at the airport, we head straight into nature. If we start early enough, a detour to a nearby dam is worthwhile to spot some Namibian wetland birds.
Our first accommodation is located not far from the capital and offers ideal access to top birding hotspots, including species-rich acacia landscapes, rocky slate mountains, and the dam with its diverse habitats.
In the acacia savannah of Namibia’s central highlands, we can expect exciting bird species alongside some African mammals, such as the semi-endemic Monteiro’s Hornbill, various cisticola species, and the striking Crimson-breasted Shrike. Other highlights include Bradfield’s Swift, Ashy Tit, Violet-eared and Black-faced Waxbills, Black-throated Canary, Short-toed Rock Thrush, Barred Wren-Warbler, and, with a bit of luck, the hard to spot yet not rare Orange River Francolin.
If time allows we might head out to Otjihavera to find Violet Wood-Hoopoe, Rüppell’s Parrot, the one or other Woodpecker, semi-endemic Damara Red-billed Hornbill and quite a number of Waterbirds at a few reed-lined dams.
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- Uraeginthus granatinus
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- Gabelracke, Coracias caudatus, wunderschön jedoch ornithologisch gemein
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- Eremomela usticollis, bedeutet verbrannter Kragen
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- Chrysococcyx caprius, wo bei keiner weiß, woher das “ziegenähnliche” bei dem Wort caprius stammen soll.
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- Accipiter minullus, also klein
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- Batis pririt affinis
Days 2 & 3
Life, and beauty, in dry places…
- 2 overnight stays in the Namib Desert, where ancient fossilised dunes and younger sand dunes meet in a spectacular display of color.
inclusive:
- Dinner, Bed & Breakfast
The Dune Lark in a stunning Habitat
ever seen a bird next to the highest dunes?
Our journey crosses the western escarpment, revealing breathtaking panoramas. Along the way, we pause to observe the massive Sociable Weaver nests, often shared with Pygmy Falcons, their so-called “nest parasites.” With luck, we may spot the elusive Cinnamon-breasted Warbler among the granite formations.
A true highlight is the Dune Lark, once Namibia’s only endemic bird. Its rusty-brown to orange plumage blends seamlessly into the landscape of red dunes and golden grasses. This arid habitat is also home to Grey-backed Sparrow-Larks, Stark’s Lark, Sabota Lark, and Karoo Long-billed Larks.
The dunes at sunrise create an unforgettable scene. Beyond the birdlife, we encounter fascinating reptiles and the !Nara plant, a vital desert survivor. On eco-conscious game drives, we explore the dune valleys and immerse ourselves in the profound silence of the desert.
Finally, we arrive at Sossusvlei, where towering dunes have cut off the Tsauchab River, forming a dramatic clay pan. The world’s highest dunes rise into the sky, offering a spectacular view for those who dare the climb.
We conclude with a visit to Sesriem Canyon, a stunning water-carved gorge revealing the region’s rich geological history.
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- Die Rotdünenlerche, Calendulauda erythrochlamys, kann in den bewachsenen Dünen im Namib Rand Nature Reserve gefunden werden.
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- Siedelweber am großen Siedelwebernest
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- Siedelweber am großen Siedelwebernest
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- Die Ludwigstrappe, Leonotis ludwigii, ist ein halb-Endemit der Namib Wüste
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- Ammomanopsis: Ammos = sand, manes = lieben, opsis = sieht aus wie… gray: John Edward Gray, engl. Ornithologe
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- Torgos tracheliotos, das knorpelige Ohr
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- Eupodotis rüppelii
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- Die Karoo Langschnabellerche, Certhilauda subcoronata, wird im südlichen Namibia anhand ihres langen Pfiffes oft entdeckt und beobachtet.
Extra Days on Our Farm
a Private Retreat Just for You
- 2 nights at Farm Nomtsas, a private wildlife and conservation area exclusively for Leaflove Safari guests.
inclusive:
- Full board
Nomtsas Farm, the Leaflove Sanctuary
A fourth-generation family farm dedicated to ecological principles, sustainable farming, and conservation in Namibia’s semi-desert. With exclusive access, you can explore the landscape at dawn and dusk through private game drives, walks, and birdwatching excursions.
Our 12 seasonal dams attract a wealth of waterbirds, including breeding Greater Painted-Snipes and hundreds of waders during good rainy seasons (January–March).
Known as a “Lark Paradise,” the farm hosts Karoo Long-billed, Sabota, Spike-heeled, and Stark’s Larks year-round. The grasslands provide habitat for bustards, Double-banded, Temminck’s, and Burchell’s Coursers, while the dense acacia thickets may reveal the elusive Rufous-eared Warbler.
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- Lannerfalke / Falco biarmicus / recht zuversichtlich auf Beute schauend
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- Die Goldschnepfe, Rostraluda benghalensis, am Springbokhaar Stausee. Männlich und Weiblich
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- Der Amurfalke, Falco amurensis, folgt den Insektenschwärmen nach gutem Regen und kann so bis tief in den Süden Namibias gesehen werden.
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- Der Rotohrsänger, Malcorus pectoralis, ist sehr schwierig zu finden. Er kann jedoch mit seinem Ruf angelockt werden.
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- Männliche Goldschnepfen mit ihren Jungtieren, welche nach Brutzeit von 17 Tagen wiederum bis 2 Monate bei Vater bleiben.
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- Der Temminckrennvogel, Cursorius temminckii, wird nach guten Niederschlägen auf den Monsonia Flächen gesehen.
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- Hier handelt es sich um Calendulauda sabota in der dick-schnäbligen Unterart C.s.herero
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- Laufhühnchen, Turnix sylvaticus, im grünen Gras
Days 4 & 5
Desert, Wetland, Reeds & Water
- 2 overnight stays in a centrally located boutique guesthouse.
inclusive:
- Bed and Breakfast (Dinner a la carte on own account)
not inclusive, booked on request:
- Boat trip on the “Lagoon of Walfish Bay” (approx. 4 hours)
- Eco Living Desert Safari to the “Little Five of the Desert” (approx. 4 hours)
Leaflove Birding Tip:
We found a great spot to track down Karoo Eremomela, Benguela Long-billed Lark, Gray’s Lark and Rufous-eared Warbler amongst a few very rare plants and magnificent Geology.
Traversing the World’s Oldest Desert to the Atlantic…
We traverse the seemingly lifeless gravel plains of the Namib in search of Karoo Eremomela, Rufous-eared Warbler, Tractrac Chat, and Gray’s Lark.
Rüppell’s- and Ludwigs Bustard entertain the gravel plains while we keep our eyes peeled for Namaqua Chameleon.
Who would have thought that amidst this arid landscape, one could encounter a plant nearly as old as Ginkgo biloba, first discovered by Friedrich Welwitsch in 1859?
Namibia’s coastline offers an impressive variety of habitats—if you know how to find the birds.
The Walvis Bay Lagoon is home to countless shorebirds, with an especially rich diversity between October and March. Thanks to our local expertise, we navigate hidden trails to provide excellent sightings of Damara Tern amongst numerous tern species, and a refreshing variety of waders.
We take a walk along “Bird Paradise” nestled within the dune world east of the lagoon, where grebes, ducks, and Lesser Flamingos create stunning photographic opportunities.
In Swakopmund, you can enjoy a fine coffee under palm trees, capture images of the Orange River White-eye, and browse bookshops for ornithological literature.
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- Die Eilseeschwalbe, Thalasseus bergii, heir beim fischen beobachtet in der Lagune der Walvis bay
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- Xenus cinereus
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- Der Rosapelikan, Pelecanus onocrotalus, ist den Fütterungen wegen dem Menschen sehr zugeneigt und sehr zahm.
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- Calidris canutus
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- Numenius arquata & phaeopus
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- Phoenicopterus roseus, der Rosaflamingo, wird zu tausenden auf der Walvis bay Lagune angetroffen.
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- Sterna balaenarum
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- Charadrius hiaticula
Days 6 & 7
these rocks look like balloons…
- 2 overnight stays in the northern Erongo, in a beautifully situated bush camp or lodge, where endemic species are often found right “on your doorstep.
inclusive:
- Dinner, Bed & Breakfast
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- Am Buschmannparadies in der Näher der Spitzkoppe ist der Namibschnäpper, Herero Chat, zu finden.
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- Landschaft an der Spitzkoppe
Spitzkoppe & Erongo
Finding the Herero Chat is challenging, but its habitat is a breathtaking geological destination for birding and photography. The Spitzkoppe, with its so-called “Bushman’s Paradise,” offers exceptional birdwatching opportunities, where one may encounter Layard’s Warbler, the pale schlegelii subspecies of Karoo Chat, as well as numerous Mountain Wheatears and Canaries. Klipspringers dart up the rock faces, while thick Butter Trees adorn the granite formations.
On a private farm nestled within the Erongo granite formations, we explore the rocky outcrops in search of elusive species such as Hartlaub’s Spurfowl and Damara Rockrunner. Among the region’s intriguing mammals, we may come across Klipspringer, Black Mongoose, Dassie Rat, or Western Rock Sengi. Before dawn, as we listen for the spurfowl, you will be treated to the unmistakable song of the Bokmakierie.
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- Klippensänger, Achaetops pygnopygius, auf den Granitfelsen der Omandumba Farm.
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- Hartlaub’s Spurfolw / Hartlaubfrankolin
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- Layardgrasmücke, Corruca layardi
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- Carprußmeise, Melaniparus carpi, auf einer Birkenrindenakazie
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- Namibornis herero
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- Namibornis herero
4-Day Kaokoland Extension
find a Waxbill, a Cave Chat & meet OvaHimba
2 nights in high-end lodges to break up the long journey into Namibia’s remote northwest.
2 nights in a rustic lodge near Ruacana, strategically located on the Kunene River.
inclusive:
- Dinner, Bed & Breakfast
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- Ova Himba Bei Epupa
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- Ova Himba Bei Epupa
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- Ova Himba Bei Epupa
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- Der Madagaskarspint, Merops superciliosus, kommt im Sommer in den Nordwesten Namibias und kann stellenweise an den Trockenfluß-Ufern gesehen werden.
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- Rüppellpapagei, Poicephalus ruepellii
Cinderella Waxbill & the OvaHimba People
The Kunene is a prime birding destination, boasting stunning landscapes and a diverse avifauna. A key highlight is the elusive Cinderella Waxbill, which thrives in the dry riverbeds of this remarkable region.
Our journey includes a stop in Ehomba, where we search for the rare Three-streaked Tchagra in the woodlands. At the Makalani palm groves, we expect sightings of Grey Kestrel and Rufous-tailed Palm-Thrush, with a chance of encountering the Bat Hawk hunting at dusk. The dense riverine vegetation is also home to the Kunene subspecies of the Red-necked Spurfowl.
Other highlights include the Tropical Boubou, White-browed Coucal, Schalow’s Turaco, the melodious Emerald-spotted Wood-Dove, and striking Golden Weaver. With luck, we may even spot a migrating Eurasian Golden Oriole.
A major advantage of this route is the return journey through Ovamboland, leading into northeastern Etosha, where the habitat shifts once again. Here, we encounter a completely different set of bird species, including a wealth of wetland and forest birds absent from the drier Kaokoland.
For those interested, we offer an optional short visit to a traditional Himba village, providing insight into the rich cultural heritage of this semi-nomadic pastoralist people.
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- Der Nacktwangen-Drosselhäherling, Turdoides gymnogenys, ist gern in den Mopanebäumen des Nordwestens. zu finden. Als Halb-Endemit ein spezieller Vogel.
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- Die Afrika-Zwergohreule, Otus senegalensis, ist in den Mopanestämmen supergut getarnt.
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- Cichladusa ruficauda, also mit rotem Schwanz
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- Cichladusa ruficauda, also mit rotem Schwanz
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- Polyboroides typus, also typisch. Auch Gymnogene genannt
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- Buphagus africanus, also aus Afrika
Days 8, 9 & 10
lots of birds, even more animals…
- 1 overnight stay at a good lodge near Andersson Gate, which is the southern central gate to Etosha National Park.
- 2 nights at a good lodge situated in the eastern dry Terminalia-forest, directly adjacent to the park.
inclusive:
- Dinner, Bed and Breakfast
Our vehicles are good for you!
Our Land Cruisers are designed for the ultimate game viewing experience, featuring wide window seats and a sunroof for unobstructed views. Whether seated or standing for the perfect shot, these vehicles ensure comfort and optimal photography, so you never miss a moment of the wildlife around you.
Etosha National Park
Etosha National Park, the “Great White Place,” spans over 22,000 km² and ranks among Africa’s top wildlife reserves. At its heart lies a vast salt pan, surrounded by diverse vegetation. With wildlife largely accustomed to vehicles, game viewing and photography opportunities are exceptional.
Along the roads, you may spot antelope species like Springbok, Red Hartebeest, Blue Wildebeest, Steenbok, Damara Dik-Dik, Black-faced Impala, and Oryx. Lions are commonly seen, while Leopards and Cheetahs are more elusive. The park also hosts Elephants, Giraffes, and the rare Black Rhinoceros.
Among the avian highlights, expect regular sightings of Kori Bustard, Red-crested Bustard, and White-quilled Bustard. Etosha is home to a remarkable variety of larks, including Eastern Clapper Lark, Red-capped Lark, Stark’s Lark, and Pink-billed Lark. Around midday, Burchell’s Sandgrouse flock to waterholes, followed by Double-banded Sandgrouse after sunset.
Raptors are well represented, with good chances of spotting Martial Eagle, Tawny Eagle, Booted Eagle, African Hawk-Eagle, Brown Snake Eagle, and Wahlberg’s Eagle.
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- Pink-billed Lark / Rotschnabellerche
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- Aquila rapax
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- Panthera leo
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- Malcorus pectoralis etoshae, = pertaining to the breast and occuring in Etosha
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- Asio capensis
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- Cursorius rufus
Days 11, 12, 13 & 14
Miombo and other forests…
1 overnight stay at a bird-rich lodge on the upper Okavango River, serving as a strategic stop to explore the area’s abundant birdlife.
2 nights at a beautiful lodge directly in the birder’s paradise Shakawe, where the Okavango panhandle shows many sought-after species. (located in Botswana)
1 overnight stay on a nice lodge near Mahango National Park in Namibia.
inclusive:
Dinner, Bed and Breakfast
2 Boat Trips on the Okavango
Kavango / Okavango
The northeastern dry forest and Miombo woodlands host a rich array of central African species. We search for rarities like the Rufous-bellied Tit, Souza’s Shrike, Sharp-tailed Starling, and Grey-headed Parrot.
Our species list grows rapidly in the lush riparian vegetation of the Okavango Delta’s Panhandle, where we focus on the elusive Pel’s Fishing Owl.
In Mahango National Park, a compact yet biodiverse reserve, we find Tsessebe, Sable, and Roan Antelopes, along with Giraffes, Elephants, Red Lechwe, Waterbuck, Sitatunga, and Common Reedbuck along the Okavango’s shores. If time allows, we also explore Buffalo Park, a remote, wildlife-rich area on the eastern bank.
Even in the garden, we spot Amethyst Sunbird, Brown-, Jameson’s-, and Red-billed Firefinch, White-browed Robin-Chat, and Meyer’s Parrot. A flatboat excursion offers chances to see Warblers, African Skimmer, Herons, Bee-eaters, and other species. With luck, we may encounter sought-after birds like African Snipe, Slaty Egret, White-backed Night Heron, and Allen’s Gallinule.
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- Eine Fülle an Diversität ist am Ufer des Okavango zu sehen. Hier treffen sich Antilopen und Gänse
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- Apaloderma narina – Blume in der Sprache der Khoi
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- Scotopelia peli
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- Pelecanus rufescens, = becoming fufous
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- Poicephalus meyeri, nach entweder dem deutschen Ornithologen Bernhard Meyer, oder George FW Meyer, welcher das Catalogus Avium publizerte.
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- Trigonoceps occipitalis & Gyps africanus
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- Chalcomitra senegalensis
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- Cinnyris talatala
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- Panthera leo im Bwabwata Park, Buffalo Core Area
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- Tockus bradfieldi
Days 15 & 16
central African birdlife
2 overnight stays at a comfortable lodge directly on the mighty Zambezi, featuring a beautiful birding garden.
inclusive:
- Dinner, Bed & Breakfast
- Boat cruise on the Zambezi
Zambezi
Today, we enjoy some roadside birding, looking for species like the Racket-tailed Roller, Broad-billed Roller, Black-headed Oriole, Red-headed Weaver, Tinkling Cisticola, and Arnot’s Chat. This lush region also hosts various Bee-eaters and Kingfishers, while the Southern Banded Snake Eagle is a frequent sight.
The mighty Zambezi River splits into long islands and side channels. Though much wildlife has been displaced by the dense Lozi population, a boat trip offers fantastic photography opportunities, featuring various Turacos, the rare African Finfoot, and several Bee-eater species. From August onward, Southern Carmine Bee-eaters nest in the riverbanks—a must-see for birders.
We also take a 4WD route across the Upper Chobe floodplains, a prime spot for Black-bellied Bustard, Rosy-throated Longclaw, Yellow-throated Sandgrouse, and waders like the African Snipe.
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- Der Schalowturako, Tauraco schalowi, wude nach dem deutschen Ornitholohen Hermann Schalow benannt und kann im Waldstück bei den Victoria Wasserfällen und am oberen Zambezi schön gesehen werden.
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- Auf den Floodplains des Chobe bei Kasika sind Rubinkehlpieper zu finden.
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- Atimastillas flavicollis – gelbe Kehle
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- Podica senegalensis – aus senegal. Ein scheues Tier, schwierig zu finden.
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- Half Collared Kingfisher / Kobalteisvogel
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- Megaceryle maxima – am größten
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- Ardeola rufiventris – roter Bauch
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- Microparra capensis – aus dem Kap
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- im November werden Jungvögel gefüttert
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- Der Karminspint, Merops nubicoides, brütet ab Ende August in den Uferbänken des Okavango, Kwando und Zambezi
Days 17 & 18
true amalgamation of natural life…
- 2 nights at a well-maintained lodge directly on the Chobe, offering excellent access to the wildlife-rich riverbanks and the bird-rich vegetation in the surrounding area.
inclusive:
- Dinner, Bed and Breakfast
- 2 boat trips on the Chobe. The spacious, flat-bottomed boats offer a comfortable and stable ride, making them perfect for wildlife observation and photography.
Chobe National Park – Botswana
Today, we head to the Chobe River, where Namibia, Zambia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe meet in one of Africa’s most wildlife-rich regions. Each year, the Chobe River floods shallow islands, creating a thriving ecosystem.
Elephants line the riverbanks, sometimes swimming—a spectacular sight for photographers. The islands are grazed by Buffalo, Impala, Puku Antelope, and Waterbuck, while hundreds of Hippos and large Nile Crocodiles bask along the shores or slip into the water.
Flocks of African Openbills wade through the shallows—can we capture one with a dripping Apple Snail in its bill? Overhead, White-backed Ducks, Spur-winged Geese, and Pratincoles glide past.
Along the banks, we may spot the elusive Slaty Egret or the Black Heron, which forms a wing canopy to lure prey.
For photographers, kingfishers are a highlight! They perch on open branches, offering stunning shots—sometimes with a fish in their beaks. Whether Malachite, Half-collared, or Giant Kingfisher, the Chobe River delivers unforgettable moments.
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- Mit Nestmaterial im Schnabel fliegt der Nimmersatt auf die hohen Feigenbäume der Chobe Inseln
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- Nettapus auritus – grüner Fleck am hals
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- Haliaeetus vocifer
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- Der Afrikascherenschnabel, Rynchops flavirostris, brütet auf den schnee-weißen Sandbänken des Chobe.
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- Der Rotschnabel-madenhacker, Buphagus erythrorhynchus, hat mit seinem Schnabel eine Schnittwirkung, weniger Zupfwirkung, und ist daher von Büffeln geduldet.
Day 19
a natural garden and it’s wonders…
- 1 night at a good lodge near Victoria Falls.
inclusive:
- Bed and Breakfast (Dinner a la carte on own account)
Services NOT included:
- US$ 50 for visa
- US$ 50 entrance fee to the falls (please bring separately)
Victoria Falls and Its Unique Spray Rainforest (Zimbabwe)
At Victoria Falls, a constant mist nourishes a lush spray rainforest, where Cape Figs, Ferns, Water Pear Trees, and towering Baobabs thrive along the riverbanks.
As you admire the ripening Ficus sur fruits, a Trumpeter Hornbill may flutter above, feasting on the abundant figs and berries, while the striking Schalow’s Turaco flashes its vivid red wings with an excited call.
We keep an eye out for Bearded Scrub-Robin, Honeyguides, and Spectacled Weaver, all high on our target list. Hidden in the undergrowth, the Thrush Nightingale moves discreetly, the Red-faced Cisticola calls loudly, and the tiny Bronze Mannikin darts between the ferns.
With over 470 bird species recorded, this is a true biodiversity hotspot.
If desired, we can arrange a scenic helicopter flight over the breathtaking Victoria Falls for an unforgettable aerial perspective.
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- Victoria Falls
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- Der Trompeterhornvogel, Bucanistes bucinator, kann im Wald bei den Victoria Wasserfällen in den großen Ficus sur / capensis / Kapfeigen beobachtet werden.
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- Erythropygia quadrivirgata – viergestreift.
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- Scopus umbretta
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- Terpsiphone viridis
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- Cisticola erythrops
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- Chlorophoneus sulfureopectus
Day 20
So long, for now
sadly the time for departure has arrived…
inclusive:
- Transfer to Victoria Falls Airport.
unfortunately time for goodbyes…
From Victoria Falls Airport, multiple international flights operate daily, offering excellent connections via Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Windhoek to destinations worldwide.
We will ensure a smooth and timely transfer to the airport and sincerely hope your journey has been filled with unforgettable birdwatching experiences and extraordinary moments in nature, leaving you with lasting memories of our time together.
indicative Rates for 2026
Please request your individual direct price, as prices may vary depending on the booking date, season, and room category.
| Participants per vehicle | per Person |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | Request all rates via email |
| 2 Persons | |
| 3 Persons | |
| 4 Persons | |
| 5 Persons | |
| 6 Persons | |
| 7 Persons | |
| Single Room Supplement |
Inclusions:
- Transportation in a travel- and safari-friendly four-wheel-drive Toyota Land Cruiser.
- Transfers as outlined in the itinerary.
- Guaranteed window or single seat for each participant.
- Accommodation and meals as specified in the itinerary.
- Scheduled activities as per the itinerary.
- All entrance fees to National Parks and attractions as outlined in the itinerary.
- An experienced trilingual tour guide proficient in English, German, and Afrikaans.
- Guided tours conducted in English, with the option for the guide to communicate in German and Afrikaans.
- Complimentary drinking water provided in the vehicle.
Exclusions:
- Personal expenses
- Beverages and gratuities
- International & regional flights
- Visa Expenses
We are happy to answer frequently asked questions in advance
At what time of year is this trip suitable?
If your main interest is abundant wildlife—especially mammals—September to November is ideal, as animals gather around shrinking water sources and sightings are frequent.
In contrast, February to March is fantastic for birdlife, with migratory species and breeding activity at its peak, but larger mammals can be more dispersed and harder to spot.
How high is the risk of malaria?
The risk of mosquito bites is very high in the months of January to May and you should definitely take precautions and protect yourself against mosquito bites. The months of June to November are hardly dangerous, but you should still protect yourself from mosquito bites and/or even take prophylaxis.
We would like to do some additional birthing around Cape Town, would that be possible?
Flight Option & Cape Extension
You can also choose to fly via Cape Town to Walvis Bay, giving your journey a fresh twist by starting and ending it a little differently. And if you have the time, we’d be happy to guide you at the Cape as well—it’s absolutely worth it.
Best Time for Birding
If you’re coming for the birds (and really, who isn’t?), the best time to travel is from October to April. You’ll catch a wealth of migratory species, and many resident birds are breeding during the lush green season. We even make a dedicated trip to southern Namibia in March just to photograph Sclater’s Lark. Yes, they’re that special.
Is it advisable to start the trip in Walvis Bay?
Definitely! You will have to change trains once, but you will gain a lot of time on connecting routes and will be overwhelmed by the birdlife at the World Heritage Site of the lagoon immediately after arrival. We strongly encourage you to start all your trips in Walvis Bay, as this is stress-free and safer.
Why Booking Flights Through a Travel Agent Still Makes Sense in the Digital Age
In a time when flight bookings are just a few clicks away, it may seem old-fashioned to involve a travel agent. But when it comes to navigating the ever-changing world of air travel—delays, reroutes, strikes, cancellations, and the charming surprise of “you no longer have a seat”—working with a real human still has very real advantages when unexpected challenges arise, such as:
Delays and last-minute flight changes
Strikes or changes made by the airline
Seat changes without prior notification
The need to rebook during your trip
Especially in those moments—just imagine being on safari while these changes occur—it is incredibly helpful to have a reliable contact person who handles everything quickly and professionally.
Our Recommendation:
Even if booking flights through a travel agency may seem slightly more expensive, it is absolutely worth the investment. The service, support, and peace of mind it provides, particularly in problematic situations, are priceless.
We’ve had consistently excellent experiences with the following agencies – they are professional, fast, and reliable.
Important:
Please make sure to always mention that you are booking through Leaflove Safari / Albert Voigts.
This is the only way we can ensure that all flight times are accurately recorded and that we can coordinate with the agents to perfectly align the itinerary with your travel plans – e.g. for organizing transfers, airport greetings, or handling last-minute changes.
Namibia:
Anja Badenhorst – Tokkies Travel
📱 +264 81 249 8760
✉️ ticketing@tokkiestravel.com
➡️ Anja has already assisted many of our guests – reliable, fast, and solution-oriented.
Sonja Etzold – Molo Africa Travel
📱 +264 81 202 6002
✉️ sonja@moloafricatravel.com.na
➡️ Sonja is also highly experienced and particularly helpful when it comes to last-minute rebookings.
An offer especially for you! Simply let us know your change requests in the form.
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This Safari was last updated on 20. May 2025 @ 16:50.
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