Red-billed Oxpecker / Rotschnabel-madenhacker

Loewenbeobachtung im Nkasa Lupala Nationalpark

Ufervegetation des Kwando, per Boot genoosen

Wildlife – Big Five, a guided Safari

Wildlife watching, biodiversity and wildlife photography in Namibia,
a guided individual tour, flexibly customisable to the wildlife-rich areas of Namibia.

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Overview

This journey is meticulously designed to immerse you in the realms of game viewing, biodiversity exploration, and the art of wildlife photography. As an example, you may begin with the knowledge that zebras inhabit Namibia, but leave with a profound understanding of the various species and subspecies of zebras that call this remarkable country home.
The striking dichotomy between the arid semi-desert landscapes of western and eastern Etosha National Park and the lush, water-rich ecosystems of the Okavango, Kwando, and Chobe regions in the Caprivi Strip reveals a staggering diversity of flora and fauna. This ecological diversity sets Namibia apart, offering an unparalleled opportunity to encounter a wide spectrum of animals and plants, making it a rarity in the African continent.
This expedition is a dream come true for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers alike.

Highlights

Remark:

It is our firm belief that authentic animal experiences can only be achieved when observing creatures in their natural habitats. We do not endorse intrusive activities in small game reserves where animals may be tagged and their natural behaviour disrupted. However, we support meaningful research initiatives and promote tolerance in such cases. Therefore, our operations primarily focus on wilderness areas, where the serendipity of wildlife encounters is cherished. This approach ensures that our clients return home with genuine and authentic wildlife images, capturing the true essence of these magnificent creatures in their natural environment.

Map

Procedure

Days 1 & 2

Arrival & drive into a wildlife rich nature reserve .
The afternoon game drives come highly recommended, as they frequently lead to sightings of elephants and formidable big cats. .

Day 3

Africat, leopards, cheetahs, porcupines, but especially brown hyenas and white rhinos are wanted
The African Cat Foundation has created a large nature reserve which offers wonderful wildlife viewing and a wealth of information.

2 additional days...?

Hobatere Nature Reserve in Damaraland
Wilderness with desert elephants, predators and endemic birds

Days 4 & 5

2 nights in the central area of the Etosha National Park at a good private lodge outside the park or in a semi-government Waterhole Chalet directly at the world famous Okaukuejo Waterhole
"Great White Place", Etosha National Park, is over 22 000 km/2 in size and one of the most game-rich parks in Africa.

Day 6 & 7

2 nights at a good lodge situated in the eastern area of Etosha, adjacent to Etosha Park.
The wildlife has lost its fear of vehicles and offers excellent opportunities for game viewing and photography.

Days 8 & 9

2 nights on the panhandle of the Okavango Delta at a lodge near the Bwabwata Nature Reserve, directly on the banks of the Okavango.
Elephants, lechwe, waterbuck, and reedbuck frequently grace the banks of the Okavango. The majestic African Fish Eagle with its distinctive call and striking appearance never fails to leave an impression. .

Additional days for ornithologists, birders & photographers:

Okavango Panhandle in Botswana. Even within the garden itself, the Amethyst sunbird, Red-billed Firefinch, White-browed Scrub-Robin, and Meyer’s Parrots grace us with their presence.
Keep your hopes high, for this is where the elusive Pel's fishing owl resides, and we'll do our utmost to seek out this extraordinary bird!

Days 10 & 11

The Kwando/Linyanti/Liambezi alluvial river basin is distinguished by its expansive reed belts, numerous lagoons, and extensive floodplains along the river's course
The Bwabwata National Park on the west bank with the legendary Horseshoe Bend is home to numerous animal species and offers a true wilderness.

Additional Days at Linyanti?

Nkasa Rupara National Park in the "Namibian Okavango Delta"
pure wilderness deep in the African bush... Searching for lions on termite mounds

Days 12 & 13

Chobe National Park, 2 nights on the Kasika Floodplain directly opposite Sedudu Island on the Chobe, which is heavily populated with buffalo
This is where the African wildlife gathers. Boat trips to large herds of hippos, elephants come to the water, fantastic scenery and bird photography.

Day 14

Victoria Falls and the Spray Forest
David Livingstone aptly described the Victoria Falls as a sight even the „angels must have gazed upon“, given their breathtaking beauty.

Day 15

Flights and logistics in Africa
Many flights depart from Victoria Falls Airport, offering travellers various destinations and options.

Detailed itinerary

Days 1 & 2

2 nights at a comfortable lodge in the middle of a private nature reserve.

inclusive:

Dinner, bed and breakfast
2x game drives in open game vehicles guided by well-trained rangers.

Natural:

We opt for a comfortable lodge located directly alongside the Omaruru Dry River, where many animals naturally gather around the local waterhole. Supplementary feeding does attract the wildlife, but for families, it offers an up-close encounter with a wide variety of species.

Classic:

Your stay will be at a highly sought-after medium-sized lodge, known for its well-guided game drives where you often have the chance to spot predators like lions and leopards in their natural habitat. You’ll have the opportunity to interact with fellow travellers, although some animals may be tagged, potentially impacting the wilderness experience. Nevertheless, the overall experience and photo opportunities are excellent.

Luxury:

While the animal density here may not match some expectations, the accommodation and services are of the highest quality, and the number of tourists is pleasantly moderate. Game drives still offer a wealth of wildlife sightings, and the diverse plant life adds to the richness, especially in terms of small animals and bird species.

Arrival & drive into a wildlife rich nature reserve

Amidst the enchanting acacia savannah of the central high plateau, you’ll discover a captivating red sandy terrain, adorned with imposing termite mounds and graceful umbrella acacias.

Our itinerary allows for a two-night stay in this remarkable locale, where locally guided game drives present an array of thrilling wildlife encounters.
These afternoon game drives come highly recommended, as they frequently lead to sightings of elephants and formidable big cats.

For a more relaxed and leisurely experience, the waterholes adjacent to the lodge provide a peaceful setting where giraffes, numerous antelope species, and an array of avian wonders can be observed and photographed. This tranquil atmosphere is ideal for those who prefer to “be the late bird” and savour the delights of wildlife photography while basking in the serenity of the surroundings.

: junge Giraffenbullen üben das “halsen”, das kämpfen schon von jungem Alter.

: Schon an der Unterkunft sehen Sie viele Tiere… und wollen oft gar nicht mehr auf Pirschfahrt.

: Breitmaulnashörner sind sanftmütige Grasfresser

: Leoparden sind meist allein, hier jedoch Mutter mit Tochter

: Der Sekretär, Sagittarius serpentarius, beim Nest auf dem Erindi

: Auf Pirschfahrt ist man sicher, auch vor Löwen

: Loewen sind auf dem Erindi Naturreservat sehr schön zu beobachten

: Leoparden sind auf dem Erindi Naturreservat sehr schön zu beobachten

Day 3

1 night at one of the Okonjima Lodges. All lodges here are comfortable and tastefully decorated.

inclusive:

Dinner, Bed & Breakfast
1x game drive in open game vehicle guided by well trained rangers.

natural:

Plains Camp is designed for “regular tourists” and happens to be the largest accommodation provided by the Africat Foundation. While it maintains a high standard, it can also host larger groups.

 classic:

The Bushcamp stands as one of Namibia’s premier lodges, offering luxurious accommodations. Here, you’ll enjoy an all-inclusive experience and individualized attention.

luxury:

The African Villa is nothing short of a dream; perfection personified!

Cheetahs, Leopards & Brown Hyenas

This is the exclusive domain of the Africat Foundation, dedicated to the preservation of African cats. Here, you can virtually count on a successful encounter with wild leopards, and the chance to observe other magnificent felines like cheetahs.
Porcupines and intriguing antelope species, such as the crown duiker, are frequently spotted. The landscape, adorned with expansive red termite mounds in vast plains, is exceptionally picturesque. Notably, the awe-inspiring sight of the incredibly rare brown hyena, protected within this sanctuary, can be a truly memorable experience.

Additional days in Hobatere?

2 nights at a lodge situated directly on the Otjovasandu dry river, in the middle of the Mopane savannah near large winter thorn acacias.

inclusive:

Full board
2x local guided game drives / night game drives

Hobatere Communal Nature Reserve in Damaraland

A truly “untouched” nature, where wildlife can still follow the daily rhythm of Africa. Expect encounters with endemic Hartmann’s mountain zebra, numerous antelope and giraffe. Lions, leopards, cheetahs and elephants like to roam this area, being able to observe them is always a matter of luck (and a little experience).
We also like to use this area for the birdlife, as Bare-cheeked Babbler, Little Sparrowhawk and Scops Owlet can already be found in the garden here.
The lodge offers night drives, which can lead to encounters with aardvark, porcupine, genet, bat-eared fox, spring hare and other nocturnal animals.

Days 4 & 5

Enjoy two nights in Etosha National Park’s central area. Choose between a private lodge just outside the park for comfort and tranquility, or a Waterhole Chalet by Okaukuejo Waterhole for unparalleled wildlife viewing at your doorstep.

inclusive:

Dinner, Bed & Breakfast

natural:

In the central area, all the private lodges tend to be quite large and bustling with tourists. However, since most of your time will be spent exploring the park itself, this aspect might not be a significant concern for many visitors.

classic:

While Okaukuejo does offer more affordable double rooms, we have opted for and charged you for the chalets. It’s important to be aware that this area tends to draw larger numbers of visitors, so it’s advisable to be patient when it comes to accommodation and service. The location, though, is well-suited for this purpose.

luxury:

If you seek a more exclusive experience, wish to escape the crowds, and prioritize superior accommodation, we strongly recommend considering one of our handpicked, smaller lodgings located outside the park.

Etosha National Park – West & Central

The long drive through the west of Etosha National Park (if you have booked the additional days) leads to many waterholes, which are often unexpectedly visited by Africa’s mammals.The “Great White Place,” Etosha National Park, sprawls over 22,000 km², making it one of Africa’s most wildlife-rich reserves. While the thrill of spotting a lion by the roadside or encountering a herd of elephants is undeniable, it’s essential to recognize that this vast landscape can be unforgiving, with wildlife enduring challenging conditions.
The park’s immense salt clay pan, spanning over 4,000 km², gives rise to artesian springs along the south bank, known as “contact springs.” These oases become crucial gathering points for diverse game species, particularly during drier and warmer seasons. It’s a testament to nature’s resilience and adaptability in the face of challenging environments.

Animal photography made easy…

Our specially converted Land Cruisers are designed for optimal game viewing experiences. With spacious window seats and a roof that can be raised at the waterholes, you’ll have the perfect vantage point for comfortable photography, whether you prefer sitting or standing.

Days 6 & 7

2 nights at a good lodge situated in the eastern area, directly adjacent to the park.

inclusive:

Dinner, Bed & Breakfast

natural:

In the eastern area, the private lodges are all of commendable quality. For your stay, we’ve selected a very good bush camp, which offers excellent value without compromising on comfort.

classic:

Our choice of accommodation places you in the heart of the arid Terminalia dry Forest, surrounded by nature’s beauty.

luxury:

Prepare to be pampered in a lavish villa nestled within the enchanting Terminalia Dry Forest. This secluded and highly individual villa is often sought after as a honeymoon suite, promising a truly unforgettable experience.

Etosha National Park – East

The Etosha agama and the majestic blue cranes captivate our attention, as do the striking Makalani palms and the diminutive Dik-dik. The ever-changing flora of this region contributes to its remarkable biodiversity – here, it’s not just about seeing a multitude of animals, but also encountering a stunning variety of species.
Remarkably, the local wildlife has grown accustomed to the presence of vehicles, providing exceptional opportunities for both game viewing and photography. Along your journey, you’ll encounter several species of antelope, including springbok, red hartebeest, wildebeest, steenbok, the rare black-nosed impala, and the iconic oryx. Predators such as lions make frequent appearances, while leopards and cheetahs are somewhat more elusive. This rich ecosystem is also home to magnificent pachyderms, including the rare black rhino, white rhino, and savannah elephants that call this place their own.

Days 8 & 9

2 nights on the panhandle of the Okavango Delta, where you’ll find a lodge nestled near the Bwabwata Nature Reserve, offering a prime location right on the banks of the Okavango River.

inclusive:

Dinner, bed and breakfast
Boat cruise on the Okavango

natural & classic:

We’ve arranged accommodation at a quality lodge near the Mahango Core Area of Bwabwata National Park. This lodge provides excellent game drives, including access to the wildlife-rich Buffalo Core Area.

luxury:

For a luxurious experience, you’ll be staying at a high-end lodge with a spa, situated near the Popa Rapids. What sets this lodge apart is the opportunity for a boat ride that takes you right up to the rapids—an exclusive experience not offered at lodges further south.

The (O)Kavango

As we venture into the deep north-east, we embark on a journey into a region that could be straight out of an African picture book. The first glimpse of traditional Nyemba huts, the scent of smoke from Girigu campfires, and the occasional crossing of the road by chickens and cattle signify our entry into this captivating real-africa realm. Here, the vegetation becomes progressively lusher and denser, and before us, the Kavango (later known as the Okavango) unfolds its grandeur.
Though Mahango Park may not be vast, it is a sanctuary for rare species like the tsessebe, sable, and roan antelopes, alongside the more common giraffes. Elephants, lechwe, waterbuck, and reedbuck frequently grace the banks of the Okavango. The majestic African Fish Eagle with its distinctive call and striking appearance never fails to leave an impression.
As we navigate the sandy trails of Mahango West, we may encounter the unique Chapman Zebra subspecies and often spot small herds of buffalo. Our reliable vehicle enables us to explore the eastern bank of the Okavango, particularly the Buffalo Core Area. Here, massive herds of buffalo and elephants are a common sight. Our objective is also to spot the magnificent Wattled Cranes and, with luck, even the elusive African Snipe in the southern mudflats of this region.

Additional days for ornithologists, birders & photographers?

2 nights within Botswana close to the delta on the bird-rich Okavango river

inclusive:

Dinner, bed and breakfast
Embark on a captivating boat excursion along the Okavango River, leading to a jackal berry forest. Here, the odds of encountering the elusive Pel’s fishing owl are notably high, promising an unforgettable wildlife experience.

Okavango Panhandle in Botswana

Even within the garden itself, the Amethyst sunbird, Red-billed Firefinch, White-browed Scrub-Robin, and Meyer’s Parrots grace us with their presence. On a flatboat excursion, we’ll embark on a quest to spot Skimmers and African Openbill, along with the Rufous-bellied heron, Striated heron, and a host of other fascinating new species. If fortune favours us, we may even have the pleasure of encountering sought-after species like the Slaty egret and White-backed Night-Heron. And keep your hopes high, for this is where the elusive Pel’s fishing owl resides, and we’ll do our utmost to seek out this extraordinary bird!

Days 10 & 11

2 nights directly on the Kwando. The Bwabwata National Park on the west bank with the legendary Horseshoe Bend is home to numerous animal species and offers a true wilderness.

inclusive:

Dinner, Bed & Breakfast
1x boat trip on the Kwando
1x game drive to Horseshoe Bend in the Kwando Core Area of the Bwabwata National Park.

natural:

An unassuming tented chalet, positioned right on the banks of the Kwando River, providing convenient access to a range of locally guided activities.

 classic:

A well-appointed lodge located on the eastern bank of the Kwando River.

luxury:

Situated on Nambwa Island, a splendid lodge perched on stilts, boasting a rustic yet opulent ambiance. This lodge immerses you in the heart of this extraordinary wilderness, delivering exceptional wildlife viewing experiences right at your doorstep.

Kwando in Caprivi Central, Bwabwata National Park

The Kwando/Linyanti/Liambezi alluvial river basin is distinguished by its expansive reed belts, numerous lagoons, and extensive floodplains along the river’s course.
This unique landscape acts as a magnet for a diverse array of wildlife.
These waters teem with life, hosting thriving populations of hippos, crocodiles, and Nile monitor lizards. The riverbanks are a vital water source for a variety of antelope species, the striking Chapman zebra, buffalo herds, and an abundance of elephants. The allure of this wilderness extends to regular sightings of pythons and an increasing number of leopard encounters, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.
For birdwatchers, this region is a true treasure trove, offering ample opportunities to observe a wide range of avian species.
In essence, it’s an unspoiled haven of pure nature!

Additional Days at Linyanti?

2 nights at a rustic wilderness lodge within Nkasa Lupala National Park

inclusive:

Dinner, bed, and breakfast
1x locally guided sundowner safari-drive
1x locally guided combined game drive and boat safari in the Linyanti region.

Natural & classic:

A rustic tented lodge nestled within Nkasa Lupala National Park. Here, you’ll immerse yourself deep in the pristine African wilderness.

Luxury:

A rustic yet more upmarket tented lodge situated on the banks of the Linyanti River. This small lodge is tucked away in the heart of the African wilderness and offers a truly unique experience.

Note:

Since the wildlife density here is not as high as in Bwabwata National Park, and you’ll also be visiting the wildlife-rich Chobe, these two days could be omitted if needed due to logistical or cost considerations.

Nkasa Rupara Park

If you knew the Okavango Delta, you wouldn’t believe you were anywhere else in this wilderness. The vast floodplains of Linyanti showcase a picture-perfect Africa with termite mounds, grassy plains, and small palm islands.

Here, the animal density isn’t as high as in other places, but the feeling of wilderness, created by stunning sunsets and distant lion roars, is as genuine as it gets.

We can even explore the history of David Livingstone with you through a small museum…

Days 12 & 13

2 nights on the Kasika Floodplain directly opposite Sedudu Island, which is heavily populated with buffalo.

inclusive:

All Meals
3 x boat trips. The flat aluminium boats are very comfortable (you also have a lot of space) and are very stable and quiet, so great for any wildlife viewing and photography.

natural:

A modest tented chalet positioned right on the banks of the Chobe River. Being slightly further west, it offers a decent animal presence on the south bank, although not as densely populated as the eastern areas where exclusive lodges are found.

 classic:

A charming family-operated lodge nestled on the Kasika Floodplain, conveniently close to the renowned and wildlife-rich Sedudu Island.

luxury:

Indulge in the utmost comfort at a high-quality lodge located on the Kasika Floodplain, directly overlooking the famed and wildlife-abundant Sedudu Island. Here, the rooms are elevated on stilts, providing an exceptional vantage point right on the Chobe River.

Chobe National Park, Kasika Floodplain & wildlife-rich Sedudu Island

Today, our journey takes us to the remarkable Chobe River, nestled in the upper corner of Namibia, where it forms borders with Zambia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. This region boasts the densest wildlife population in all of Africa. Each year, the Chobe River floods numerous shallow islands, creating a bountiful ecosystem that supports a thriving web of life.
As you gaze along the riverbanks, you’ll be greeted by the sight of numerous elephants, some even taking a leisurely swim – a photographer’s dream come true. The flat islands are a haven for buffalo, impala, the rare grass antelope known as the “puku,” and waterbuck. Meanwhile, lurking Nile crocodiles keep a watchful eye from the water’s edge.
Above, the skies come alive with flocks of African Openbill storks, White-faced whistling Ducks, Spur-winged geese, and Pratincoles during our boat cruise. Slaty egrets make appearances along the shore, and the enigmatic Black heron captivates with its unique fishing technique of forming its wings into a bell shape. For avid kingfisher enthusiasts, exceptional photographic opportunities are virtually guaranteed in this avian wonderland.

: Am Ufer des Chobe leben sehr viele Nilpferde. Oft kommt es zu kämpfen zwischen den Bullen.

: Elephanten am Chobe Fluss und Nationalpark

: Der Afrikascherenschnabel, Rynchops flavirostris, brütet auf den schnee-weißen Sandbänken des Chobe.

: Der Rotschnabel-madenhacker, Buphagus erythrorhynchus, hat mit seinem Schnabel eine Schnittwirkung, weniger Zupfwirkung, und ist daher von Büffeln geduldet.

: Haliaetetus vocifer, Schreiseeadler. Garantiert gute Fotos am Ufer des Chobe, Zambezi, Kwando und vor allem im Okavango.

: Krokodile schwimmen am Chobe mit leicht geöffnetem Mund ins Wasser – guter Fotomoment.

Day 14

1 overnight stay near Vic Falls at accommodation selected and tested by us.

inclusive:

Overnight stay & breakfast (dinner a la carte in the restaurant not included)
Transfer to Vic Falls / Hotel & to the airport

natural:

We suggest a reasonably spacious lodge near the falls that offers simplicity but provides excellent value for your money.

classic:

Consider a small, charming, and contemporary guesthouse of exceptional quality, providing a high standard of comfort.

luxury:

Indulge in the iconic Victoria Falls Hotel, a place many consider a must-visit when embarking on an African safari. A night’s stay at this legendary hotel is often deemed an essential experience.

Victoria Falls and the unique biotope at the falls

David Livingstone aptly described the Victoria Falls as a sight even the „angels must have gazed upon“, given their breathtaking beauty.
These falls, the largest on our planet due to their impressive width, are a true wonder of nature, despite other falls being higher or wider individually. It’s the combination that makes them truly awe-inspiring.
As you approach the Victoria Falls, a constant misty rain envelops the surroundings, nurturing a lush forest of Cape figs, ferns, water pears, and towering baobab trees along the imposing riverbank. Here, you’ll marvel at the fruit-laden ficus sur trees while the Trumpeter hornbill feasts on the abundant figs and berries above you. The green Schalow’s turaco, with its striking red wings, calls out sharply, adding to the thrill of this vibrant ecosystem.
During your tour, you’ll encounter different viewpoints, each offering a unique perspective of the falls, which plunge a staggering 108 meters into the depths below.
Zimbabwe is home to many talented artists, and you’re likely to discover captivating works of art and meet intriguing individuals in this vibrant and colourful town.

Day 15

inclusive:

Transfers to the chosen airport, as well as further transfers to accommodation or international airports..

Flight logistics in Africa

Victoria Falls, located on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, is a popular tourist destination with an international airport, Victoria Falls Airport (VFA). Many flights depart from Victoria Falls Airport, offering travellers various destinations and options.
Let us help you finding the correct schedule getting you home safely.

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:

Indicative prices for 2024

Participants	natural	classic	luxury
1 Person	$ 12'523.00	$ 14'404.00	$ 19'883.00
2 Persons	$ 7'713.00	$ 9'481.00	$ 14'469.00
3 Persons	$ 6'109.00	$ 7'840.00	$ 12'664.00
4 Persons	$ 5'307.00	$ 7'020.00	$ 11'762.00
5 Persons	$ 4'826.00	$ 6'527.00	$ 11'220.00
6 Persons	$ 4'505.00	$ 6'199.00	$ 10'859.00
7 Persons	$ 4'276.00	$ 5'965.00	$ 10'602.00
single room supplement	$ 488.00	$ 771.00	$ 2'112.00

We are happy to answer frequently asked questions in advance

Which accommodations do we stop at?

Please get in touch with us. Unfortunately, our detailed route descriptions are now being peddled and we only like to disclose these details directly. We would be happy to send you the route with specific accommodation links.

At what time of year is this trip suitable?

If you are particularly interested in abundant wildlife, the months of September to November would be ideal. In February to March there are many birds but few mammals.

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.

Can we get across the borders to and from Botswana and Zimbabwe without any problems

Yes, please only check that your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your return and that there are at least 4 free pages available.

An offer especially for you! Simply let us know your change requests in this form.

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This Safari was last updated on 30. November 2023 @ 15:58.

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