Makgadikgadi Pans | Maun (Botswana) | Okavango Delta (Botswana)
The following are Signature: Botswana's Wildlife & The Okavango Delta tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
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Welcome to Botswana. Your expedition begins as you touch down in Maun, the gateway to one of the world's greatest wildernesses. You will be met upon arrival and transferred to your hotel to unpack and unwind. In the evening, gather with your National Geographic Expedition Leader, National Geographic Expedition Expert, and fellow travellers for an engaging welcome that sets the stage for your upcoming explorations. Afterwards, enjoy a delicious welcome dinner.
You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
Your opportunity to meet your Expedition Leader and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Start the day with a visit to the Nkashi Knowledge Centre. Here, meet an inspiring researcher from the National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project for an illuminating presentation on the origins of the Okavango Delta. Next, transfer to the airport for a scenic flight over changing landscapes to the Makgadikgadi Pans, one of the largest salt flats in the world. The afternoon calls you into the bush for an exhilarating safari drive in the national park. Scan the horizon for zebras and wildebeest and the predators that naturally follow such as: lion, leopard, cheetah, and hyenas. Cap off the day with a traditional boma dinner beneath a brilliant canopy of stars.
You will meet one of the researchers of the Nkashi Trust team which has implemented the National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project (NGOWP) in a decade-long collaboration with the National Geographic Society. The NGOWP is a transboundary initiative that has spent the past ten years surveying and collecting scientific data on the Okavango river system and working with local communities, NGOs, and the governments of Angola, Namibia, and Botswana to secure permanent, sustainable protection for the greater Okavango Watershed.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Set out across the shimmering, endless salt crust of the Makgadikgadi Pans as the afternoon light turns to gold. Scan the vast arid expanse for remarkable desert-adapted wildlife, watching curious habituated meerkats pop out from subterranean burrows to forage through the scrub. Keep your eyes peeled for stealthy brown hyenas, sleek cheetahs, resilient gemsbok, and lions roaming across this ancient, otherworldly landscape.
Fly to the western bank of the Boteti River, which forms the boundary of the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park.
As dawn breaks over the pans, set out on a morning safari drive to spot wildlife at their most active. Later, meet with a leading wildlife biologist for a presentation on the delicate balance of human and wildlife coexistence, followed by a visit to the local research centre. Back at the lodge, keep an eye out for elephants at the hidden water-level hide, offering panoramic views over Makgadikgadi Pan National Park, ideal for viewing wildlife on the river's edge. Conclude the day with an afternoon safari drive before dinner.
Enjoy a morning safari in one of the world's top safari destinations. Search for elephants and giraffes grazing, photograph zebras and wildebeest and, with a little luck, you'll even spot animals feasting on a recent kill.
Take a look at how a small team of scientists and community officers are tackling one of Africa's most complex challenges - conservation efforts and the reality of human & wildlife coexistence in remote areas of Botswana. Hear from the managing director and resident wildlife biologist at Elephants for Africa, alongside the organization's community projects' manager to discuss these complex issues. The visit combines a guided camp tour with a structured presentation and open Q&A. Guests hear the issues from both the scientific and the community perspectives, directly from the people who live and work at the intersection of both.
Set out on another safari drive this afternoon to view the resident wildlife in their daily slowdown. Perhaps you'll see a few of the big cats - cheetahs, leopards and lions - as well as giraffes, antelope and herds of migratory zebra or wildebeest in search of water.
The golden morning light guides you on another safari drive through the rich habitats of Makgadikgadi Pan National Park, keeping an eye out for the resident wildlife in their natural environment. Under the midday sun, stay cool and relax at the lodge, perhaps visit the lodge's secret hide to spot birds or grazing animals drinking at the edge of the Boteti River. Following another thrilling safari drive, the evening transitions to the warmth of the crackling campfire. Sink into your seat and share stories from the day.
Enjoy a morning safari in one of the world's top safari destinations. Search for elephants and giraffes grazing, photograph zebras and wildebeest and, with a little luck, you'll even spot animals feasting on a recent kill.
Set out on another safari drive this afternoon to view the resident wildlife in their daily slowdown. Perhaps you'll see a few of the big cats - cheetahs, leopards and lions - as well as giraffes, antelope and herds of migratory zebra or wildebeest in search of water.
Board a mid morning flight into the lush green heart of the Okavango Delta, watching the arid plains transform into an intricate puzzle of shimmering waterways below. After lunch, attend an insightful afternoon talk regarding the National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project. Learn about the ongoing efforts to secure permanent, sustainable protection for this vital watershed and its rich biodiversity. Afterwards, feel the spray of the water on your face during a boat safari, navigating the channels as the setting sun turns the delta waters into liquid gold.
Bid farewell to the Makgadikgadi Pans as you fly to the wildlife-rich Okavango Delta.
Step into the heart of Botswana's wilderness on an unforgettable journey into the Okavango Delta. Your adventure begins with a scenic drive in an open 4x4 safari vehicle, travelling deep into the pristine area teeming with wildlife and rich in natural beauty. Explore the Delta the traditional way, gliding quietly through the waterways in a mokoro canoe, steered by skilled local polers who know the channels like the back of their hand. Back on land, a guided walking safari gives you the rare opportunity to connect with the bush on foot. Learn about the plants, animal tracks, and smaller wildlife often missed from a vehicle, while keeping an eye out for the Delta's bigger residents. This is more than a traditional wildlife safari, it's an immersion into one of the world's most remarkable ecosystems, guided by the people who call it home.
Awaken to the symphony of the delta and enjoy a light breakfast before your morning safari. Glide through the glass-like water in a traditional mokoro dugout canoe, listening to the gentle splash of the paddle, then step ashore for a guided nature walk across remote islands to track wildlife on foot. Spend a quiet afternoon at a secluded bird-viewing hide, watching kingfishers and herons fly above the reeds. Following afternoon tea, set out again by boat for another aquatic safari before settling into the lodge for the evening and gathering around the campfire.
Continue exploring the Delta on a bush walk or by mokoro through the channels, searching for wildlife as you go.
Head out in search of more wildlife with a morning boat safari. Watch for pods of hippos and basking crocodiles as you navigate by mokoro and motorboat, and discover the small wonders of the delta's ecosystems on an island walking excursion. Back at the lodge, spend the midday hours relaxing or gazing out from the bird-viewing area to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the local avian life. Following afternoon tea, a final boat ride reveals the delta's timeless beauty at twilight. Toast your unforgettable African expedition during a celebratory farewell dinner with your companions.
Continue exploring the Delta on a bush walk or by mokoro through the channels, searching for wildlife as you go.
Enjoy a final breakfast at the lodge, listening to the rustle of the palms and the distant calls of the bush one last time. Board a flight back to Maun, enjoying a final bird's-eye view of the vast, winding delta channels you have explored. Your extraordinary wildlife expedition concludes upon arrival at the Maun airport.
Fly out of the Okavango Delta and back to Maun to conclude the adventure.
Select a destination below to to view the hotel(s) included by G Adventures in their Signature: Botswana's Wildlife & The Okavango Delta tour:
HGHC+QP2, Boteti River, Kwaraga, Botswana
Kwaraga, Botswana
Plot 1566 Matlapaneng
Maun, Botswana
Nxaragha Island Okavango Delta, Botswana
Okavango Delta, Botswana
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Signature: Botswana's Wildlife & The Okavango Delta tour:
Max 12, avg. 8.
Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group, MaunSignature Moment: Living with Elephants, Makgadikgadi Pans. Arrival transfer. Welcome dinner. Meet with a researcher from the Nkashi Trust team which implements the National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project. Internal flight from Maun to the Makgadikgadi Pans. Morning and afternoon wildlife safari drives in Makgadikgadi Pans over multiple days. Internal flight from the Makgadikgadi Pans to the Okavango Delta. Morning and afternoon wildlife safaris by motorboat and traditional mokoro in the Okavango Delta over multiple days. Farewell Dinner. Departure Transfer. Engaging Discussions with the National Geographic Expert Throughout. Porterage at hotels and when getting on and off of vehicles. Tips are included for all activities, meals and porterage, except for your Expedition Leader. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Meet a National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project researcher for a talk on this vibrant delta, Join a wildlife biologist at a research centre for a private presentation on human-elephant coexistence, Witness the abundant wildlife in the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, Spot birds and animals from a traditional mokoro canoe and motorized boat
Comprehensive travel insurance is a mandatory prerequisite for participation in all our departures. To safeguard your well-being, your National Geographic Expedition Leader will kindly request to verify your physical policy details before you may officially join your fellow travellers.When choosing your coverage, please ensure your policy includes full medical protection, featuring a strict minimum requirement of $200,000 USD for emergency rescue and medical repatriation. For complete peace of mind while exploring, we also strongly advise securing comprehensive coverage for personal liability, trip cancellation or curtailment, and the loss of luggage and personal belongings. If you intend to rely on insurance provided through your credit card, you must supply formal proof of purchase—such as a credit card statement or receipt in your name—along with explicit confirmation from your banking institution regarding the participating insurer, exact policy limits, and their dedicated 24-hour emergency contact number.
Hotel (1 nt), Safari Lodges (6 nts).
7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners
National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert throughout.
Every National Geographic Signature departure is accompanied throughout by a dedicated National Geographic Expedition Leader, whose purpose is to ensure a seamless experience so you can fully immerse yourself in the destination. Your Expedition Leader offers deep insight into the landscapes you traverse, suggests enriching independent activities, recommends exceptional local dining venues, and connects you with our community friends along the way. Rather than acting as conventional guides, they possess a broad, sophisticated understanding of the historical, cultural, religious, and social tapestry of the region. To offer the ultimate perspective, we complement their expertise with specialist local guides whose deep regional knowledge adds profound depth to specific sites—delivering a masterfully balanced exploration.
No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details. In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Private vehicle, plane, 4x4 safari vehicle, boat, mokoro, walking.
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Cold Weather:o Long-sleeved shirts or sweatero Scarfo Warm gloveso Warm hato Warm layerso Warm waterproof jacketDocuments:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)o Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Fleece top/sweatero Footwearo Hato Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)o Locks for bagso Long pants/jeanso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottleo Shirts/t-shirtso Sleepwearo Small travel towelo Sunglasseso Swimwearo Watch and alarm clocko Waterproof backpack covero Windproof rain jacketHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)Warm Weather:o Sandals/flip-flopso Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)o Sturdy water shoes/sandalso Sun hat/bandanao Swimwear
When deciding what to pack, considerations will vary based on your specific itinerary, the regions you are visiting, and the season in which you are travelling. Generally speaking, we recommend packing thoughtfully and keeping your luggage to one checked bag at a manageable weight to facilitate seamless transitions throughout your expedition.In addition to your primary luggage, you will also require a small day pack or shoulder bag. This smaller bag is essential for keeping your camera, water, and personal items close at hand during day walks, excursions, and daily explorations.
Luxury: Five-star hospitality and meticulously curated inclusions, featuring iconic properties, fine dining, and private door-to-door service.
To ensure a seamless and elevated experience throughout your National Geographic Signature departure, gratuities have been fully taken care of for all included meals, activities, and luggage porterage.On our National Geographic Signature tours, tipping is included for all included activities and meals, and porterage. Tipping is not included for the Expedition Leader. Should you want some basic guidelines on tipping for the activities you do on your own, please see below. At the end of each trip if you felt your National Geographic Signature Expedition Leader did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline would be $10-$15 per person per day. Tipping is neither required nor expected for your National Geographic Expedition Expert.For the independent moments on your itinerary, tipping is generally not expected across Central Asia. However, should you wish to reward exceptional service during independent dining or activities, a modest gratuity of 3–5% is entirely appropriate and warmly received by local community members.