13-Day Tour in the Footsteps of Livingstone in Zimbabwe

Upon arrival at Victoria Falls airport, we proceed directly to our lodge. Situated overlooking Zambezi National Park, you can unwind from your journey in the two-tiered tropical pool, enjoy a drink on the deck as dusk descends, and anticipate the arrival of wildlife. The lodge's bar, voted as one of the 'Great Bars of the World', offers a view of a natural waterhole frequented by thirsty elephants, buffalo, and kudu each evening.

Victoria Falls Safari Lodge (5-star)

We kick off our journey with a visit to Victoria Falls - one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Discovered by Livingstone in 1855, its pre-colonial name, ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya' (the smoke that thunders), aptly captures its natural power. Spanning a mile in width, the waterfall plunges down the rockface for nearly a quarter of a mile, creating mists visible from up to 12 miles away. Following a guided walk with stops at various viewpoints, we embark on a sundowner cruise along the Zambezi River. Before the cascade, the water at the top of the falls flows gently, attracting hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and giraffes to its edge for a drink.

Victoria Falls Safari Lodge (5-star)

Today, we explore Mpisi, a nearby rural village near Victoria Falls, where we gain an understanding of traditional life. Here, we learn about indigenous customs, centuries-old farming techniques, and practices related to medicine and healing. The afternoon is free for leisure activities back at the lodge.

Victoria Falls Safari Lodge (5-star)

Crossing the border into Botswana, we arrive at Kasane - the gateway to Chobe National Park. Our home for the next seven nights is located on the tranquil banks of the Chobe River. With monkeys, kudu and countless species of bird on our doorstep, it’s the perfect base to relax and watch the wildlife from the riverbanks after a day exploring the park.

Chobe Safari Lodge (4-star)

Chobe was Botswana’s first national park, and the overflowing tributaries, lily-strewn waterways and miles of floodplains are home to Africa’s greatest concentration of wildlife - including the largest elephant population on earth. On our first game drive into this pristine and protected wilderness, keep a lookout for lion, cheetah, elephant, giraffe, buffalo and antelope.

Chobe Safari Lodge (4-star)

Up with the birdsong, this morning we cruise along the river to spot yawning pods of hippo, basking crocodile and herds of bathing elephant. A paradise for birdwatchers, Chobe is home to more than 450 species - including heron, stork, jacanas and bee-eaters. Look out for small oxpeckers as they hitch a ride and a free meal on the back of thick-skinned hippos.

Chobe Safari Lodge (4-star)

Having already observed Chobe's wildlife from both land and water, today we opt for a different vantage point: the skies. Flying alongside the Zambezi River in a light aircraft, we enjoy a distinctive view of Chobe's marshy terrains. From above, the scattered islands and winding tributaries resemble ink on litmus paper, while herds of elephants, giraffes, and buffaloes are visible below us.

Chobe Safari Lodge (4-star)

Returning to terra firma, today we delve further into the national park. A river cruise offers additional opportunities to spot elephants, hippos, and vigilant birds along the riverbanks, while a 4WD safari presents the potential for encountering more significant wildlife, such as lions, cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, leopards, sables, and wildebeests.

Chobe Safari Lodge (4-star)

We’ve been living on the wild side all week, so today is free to take stock, relax and recharge. Spend the day by the pool, watch the world go by from the riverbanks, and reflect on our favourite moments with new friends.

Chobe Safari Lodge (4-star)

In the early hours of the morning, we embark on our last game drive, immersing ourselves in the sights and sounds of the savannah, having already encountered much of the wildlife we hoped to see. Later in the afternoon, you have the choice to enjoy a boat excursion or fishing trip departing from the lodge.

Chobe Safari Lodge (4-star)

Crossing the border back into Zimbabwe this morning, we'll transfer to Victoria Falls airport for our overnight flight back to the UK.

Victoria Falls - In flight

Upon arrival your Titan vehicle will be waiting for the journey home.

UK