Elife Travel - Africa Tours - South Africa Tours - South Africa (Southern) Tours - Overland Truck Tours - The Grand Southern Safari

The Grand Southern Safari

Name: The Grand Southern Safari
Brand: Elife Travel
Price: 3495 USD
Availability: InStock

Country:

South Africa

Flight:

Not included

Favorite

Tour id:

45617

Operator:

Encounters Travel
Length:

20 days
Group size:

20 pax
Age:

10 to 85
Difficulty:
Difficulty levels:
- Relaxing
- Easy
- Moderate
- Serious
- Heart-pumping

02.08-21.08.25 request
16.08-04.09.25 scheduled
02.09-21.09.25 scheduled
06.09-25.09.25 scheduled
09.09-28.09.25 scheduled
13.09-02.10.25 scheduled
30.09-19.10.25 scheduled
01.11-20.11.25 scheduled
08.11-27.11.25 scheduled
15.11-04.12.25 scheduled
29.11-18.12.25 scheduled
06.12-25.12.25 scheduled
13.12-01.01.26 scheduled
20.12-08.01.26 scheduled
27.12-15.01.26 scheduled
03.01-22.01.26 scheduled
13.01-01.02.26 scheduled
17.01-05.02.26 scheduled
24.01-12.02.26 scheduled
10.02-01.03.26 scheduled
14.02-05.03.26 scheduled
11.04-30.04.26 scheduled
14.04-03.05.26 scheduled
21.04-10.05.26 scheduled
25.04-14.05.26 scheduled
05.05-24.05.26 scheduled
09.05-28.05.26 scheduled
12.05-31.05.26 scheduled
19.05-07.06.26 scheduled
30.05-18.06.26 scheduled
02.06-21.06.26 scheduled
20.06-09.07.26 scheduled
23.06-12.07.26 scheduled
27.06-16.07.26 scheduled
14.07-02.08.26 scheduled
01.08-20.08.26 scheduled
11.08-30.08.26 scheduled
22.08-10.09.26 scheduled
29.08-17.09.26 scheduled
01.09-20.09.26 scheduled
27.10-15.11.26 scheduled
31.10-19.11.26 scheduled
07.11-26.11.26 scheduled
17.11-06.12.26 scheduled
21.11-10.12.26 scheduled
24.11-13.12.26 scheduled
05.12-24.12.26 scheduled
15.12-03.01.27 scheduled
22.12-10.01.27 scheduled

Itinerary

Leaving Cape Town, we head north through the Cederberg Mountain Region en route to Namibia. Crossing the border into Namibia our first stop is the Fish River Canyon where we take a scenic hike along the rim in order to gain some perspective as to just how large this natural phenomenon is. We continue to the Namib-Naukluft Park, which is one of Namibia's geographic gems and at 50,000km2, is one of the largest parks in Africa. There are massive sand dunes in the Sossusvlei desert area as well as the remarkable landscape. Next we stop at Swakopmund the adventure capital of Namibia, where you can enjoy many fun options such as skydiving, sand boarding and quad biking. We continue on to the Etosha National Park, which boasts an amazing abundance of wildlife making it one of Southern Africa's finest and most important game reserves. We spend plenty of time wildlife viewing before moving onto Namibia's capital city Windhoek. After a short tour of the city we wave goodbye to Namibia and cross the border into Botswana. Our first stop is at Ghanzi for a cultural evening of tribal song and dance from the San community. We then spend time exploring the Okavango Delta. The Okavango Delta is the world's largest inland delta, a labyrinth of lagoons, lakes and hidden channels covering 17,000km2. We have a full day in the Greater Moremi Game Reserve section of the Delta with game drives and boat trips on board Mokoro's, traditonal poled boats used in the Delta. We'll then enjoy a full day's game drive through the Savuti Game Reserve before arriving at the second largest wildlife reserve in Botswana. Here in the Chobe National Park we take to boats again on the look out for the park's famous elephant population. Futher optional game drives wrap up our activities before we head over to the border where we find ourselves in Zimbabwe and our final destination, the one and only Victoria Falls, crossroads of Africa. Accommodation is either camping based or in comfortable hotels, lodges and permanent camps and travel is on a specialist expedition vehicle with large windows, charging points and an experienced tour leader/driver and cook on board. 2026 Update: Please note that for departures in 2026 we have removed the free day in Namib Naukluft and introduced an additional night in Divindu, where there is an option to pre-book an afteroon game drive in Mahangu National Park

Tour program

Day 1

Cape Town to the Cederberg

The grand southern safari starts in the Cape Town city centre, where we'll all gather before heading off towards the Cederberg region of the Western Cape, which boasts spectacular mountain ranges and orange farms. The Cederberg is also the home of the Rooibos bush, which is indigenous to the slopes of the Cederberg mountains. The leaves of this tree are used to make a herbal beverage which has international acclaim as a healthy and refreshing option to regular tea. We'll have dinner together at our accommodation in Citrusdal for the evening, which offers a great opportunity to get acquainted with the rest of the travelling group whilst enjoying some South African hospitality. Route: Cape Town to Citrusdal. Included Highlight: Traditional Dinner. Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions. Facilities - Accommodated: Rooms with en-suite bathrooms. OVERNIGHT:. Marcuskraal. MEALS:. Dinner, Lunch. EXTRAS:. None

Day 2

Namaqualand to the Gariep River

From Citrusdal, we make our way to Namaqualand, which provides the first view of the desert vistas which will be a regular occurrence in the days ahead. We travel north, stopping in Springbok to refuel before we make our way to our camp located on the banks of the Orange River - the longest river in Southern Africa. If you are lucky enough to be travelling during the South African spring months between July to September - you will be greeted with colourful expanses of wildflowers that are unique to the region. Route: Citrusdal to Orange River. Included Highlight: Spring Wild Flowers (July – September). Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions. Facilities - Accommodated: Rooms with en-suite bathrooms. OVERNIGHT:. Felix Unite Cabanas. MEALS:. Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch. EXTRAS:. None

Day 3

Namibia

Though originally called Gariep, meaning "river" in the local KhoeKhoe language, the Orange River later took its name from the Dutch Royal House. Today, you can experience the river firsthand on an optional morning canoe trip. After lunch, we leave the Orange River and travel inland to the Fish River Canyon, Namibia's longest river and Africa's largest canyon. We'll drive to the canyon's edge for a leisurely walk along the rim. Later, we'll head west towards Keetmanshoop for our overnight stay. Route: Orange/Gariep River to Keetmanshoop. Included Highlight: Scenic walk along the rim of Fish River Canyon. Optional Activity: Canoe on the Orange River. Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions. Facilities - Accommodated: Rooms with en-suite bathrooms. OVERNIGHT:. Schutzenhaus Guesthouse. MEALS:. Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch. EXTRAS:. None

Day 4

Quiver Tree Forest, Giants Playground, Namib-Naukluft National Park

This morning, we'll explore the Quiver Tree Forest and The Giants Playground, a maze-like formation of massive dolerite boulders stacked upon each other. Today's journey takes us deeper into the Namib Desert, through long, dusty roads and sparsely populated farmlands, offering a glimpse into the vastness of rural Namibia. The landscape gradually transforms from eastern grasslands to the red dunes of the west, showcasing the diverse faces of this desert nation. Our next two nights will be spent near the dune fields, where the unique calls of the elusive Barking Gecko lull us to sleep. Route: Keetmanshoop to Namib Naukluft NP Area. Included Highlight: Quiver Tree Forest, Giants Playground. Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions. Facilities - Accommodated: Rooms with en-suite bathrooms. OVERNIGHT:. Hammerstein Lodge. MEALS:. Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch. EXTRAS:. None

Day 5

Namib-Naukluft National Park

Today is put aside for you to relax and recharge while taking in the landscapes of the desert. Optional activities such as self-guided walks from camp are available. Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions. Facilities - Accommodated: Rooms with en-suite bathrooms. OVERNIGHT:. Hammerstein Lodge. MEALS:. Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch. EXTRAS:. None

Day 6

Sossusvlei Dunes - Namib-Naukluft National Park

We start the day early as we spend time in the Namib-Naukluft National Park and climb up the famous Dune 45, which offers a spectacular vantage point to marvel at the changing colours of the desert. We'll enjoy a hearty breakfast before we hop into a 4x4 to Sossusvlei & Deadvlei, where we'll explore its vast salt pans before we settle in at our campsite in the Namib-Naukluft National Park for the rest of the day. Included Highlight: Sesriem Canyon (accommodated departures), Hike up Dune 45, 4x4 shuttle to Sossusvlei / Deadvlei. Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions. Facilities - Accommodated: Rooms with en-suite bathrooms. OVERNIGHT:. Boesmans Camp. MEALS:. Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch. EXTRAS:. None

Day 7

Swakopmund

On our final day in the desert, we have the privilege of joining a local expert for an enlightening desert excursion. While b idding a reluctant farewell to the Namib, we make a stop to commemorate our crossing of the Tropic of Capricorn. Having taken in the wonders of the Namib Desert we turn west and head into the sunset to our next destination, the bustling coastal town of Swakopmund where adventure awaits along w ith a welcome touch of civilization. Upon arriving in Swakopmund , we will be presented with the opportunity to book any number of thrilling adventures available. Tonight we’ll enjoy a dinner out at a local restaurant. Route: Naukluft Area to Swakopmund. Included Highlight: Guided desert walk with local expert, Tropic of Capricorn. Facilities - Camping: Rooms with en-suite bathrooms. Facilities - Accommodated: Rooms with en-suite bathrooms. OVERNIGHT:. Haus Garnison or Amanpuri. MEALS:. Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch. EXTRAS:. None

Day 8

Swakopmund

Swakopmund may be Namibia's adventure capital, but it's much more than just adrenaline filled fun. You have the day free to explore the town on your own. Be sure to visit one of its famed coffee shops and bakeries that offer a variety of German-inspired treats. Local options: Dolphin cruise, skydiving, sandboarding, quad biking. Facilities - Camping: Rooms with en-suite bathrooms. Facilities - Accommodated: Rooms with en-suite bathrooms. OVERNIGHT:. Haus Garnison or Amanpuri. MEALS:. Breakfast. EXTRAS:. None

Day 9

Swakopmund to Brandberg

Our journey through the desert progresses northwards, reaching the dramatic point where the hot sands meet the cold Atlantic waters. Our itinerary includes a photo stop at the seaside holiday town of Wlotskabaken. Following this, we will visit the Lichen Fields, where your guide will lead a viewing and provide commentary on the Lichen Colonies. Subsequently, we turn our attention to Brandberg ('Burning Mountains'), recognised as Namibia's highest mountain range. This area is renowned for its rock art, including the famous 'White Lady', one of over 45,000 paintings. We will undertake an approximately two-hour return hike to visit this specific painting, which is thought to be around 2,000 years old. (Please be advised that this activity will take place either this evening or tomorrow morning early. The hike does traverse rough terrain along the gorge of the normally dry Tsisab River). Route: Swakopmund to Brandberg. Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions. Facilities - Accommodated: Two per room with en-suite bathroom. OVERNIGHT:. Brandberg White Lady Lodge. MEALS:. Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch. EXTRAS:. None

Day 10

Brandberg to Etosha National Park

With vast salt pans, savanna and woodland, Etosha is one of Africa’s finest game parks. At 18 000 sq km, it is one of the biggest Parks in Southern Africa. Etosha means “great white area”, which refers to the large dried pan in the middle of the Park. We will spend the afternoon exploring the park in the overland Truck. Route: Brandberg to Etosha National Park. Included Highlight: Afternoon game drive in truck. Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions. Facilities - Accommodated: Two per room with en-suite bathroom. OVERNIGHT:. NWR: Okuakuejo. MEALS:. Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch. EXTRAS:. None

Day 11

Etosha

Today we are out on safari in Etosha National Park, one of Africa’s premier game reserves. It is known for a distinctive feature – a massive salt pan that is found in the middle of the park which is so big that it can be seen from space. The salt pan, as well as the smaller ones surrounding and adjoining it, attracts wildlife to its banks in numbers. We explore this unique wilderness on an afternoon game drive. Included Highlight: Afternoon game drive in truck. Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions. Facilities - Accommodated: Two per room with en-suite bathroom. OVERNIGHT:. NWR: Okaukuejo. MEALS:. Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch. EXTRAS:. None

Day 12

Full-DAY Safari in Etosha

This afternoon we time traversing Etosha on a game drive. A safari in the African bush provides the opportunity to see something different at every moment, and we enjoy the anticipation of seeing unique sightings around every corner. Route: Etosha National Park. Included Highlight: MAfternoon Game drive. Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions. Facilities - Accommodated: Two per room with en-suite bathroom. OVERNIGHT:. Kupferquelle resort. MEALS:. Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch. EXTRAS:. None

Day 13

Etosha to Divundu

We leave the white sands of Etosha behind and venture towards the Kavango River for our overnight stop in Divundu. Route: Etosha National Park to Divundu. Included Highlight: Walk through Windhoek with your guide. Facilities - Accommodated: Two per room with en-suite bathroom. Facilities - Camping: Campsite with Shared Ablutions. OVERNIGHT:. Mahangu. MEALS:. Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch. EXTRAS:. None

Day 14

Divundu to Maun

Prior to departing for Maun, we enjoy a leisurely boat cruise on the beautiful Kavango River. We then cross the border into Botswana and head towards the gateway to the Okavango Delta, the town of Maun. We overnight in Maun before heading for our next adventure – The Okavango Delta. Route: Divundu to Maun. Included Highlight: Morning boat cruise. Facilities - Camping: Two per room with en-suite bathroom. Facilities - Accommodated: Two per room with en-suite bathroom. OVERNIGHT:. Creta Maun. MEALS:. Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch. EXTRAS:. None

Day 15

Okavango - Khwai Conservation Area

You will be separated from the truck for the next 2 nights and it is therefore important that you pack/gather your personal belongings which you may need, before we depart Maun. Please pack lightly and only take what you need for the following two nights. Today we make our way towards the Okava ngo Delta . Early risers will have the opportunity to go on an optional scenic flight over the Delta (time and weather permitting). After your optional flight, you will be collected from Maun and will be transferred to the Khwai Conservation area in smaller safari type vehicles. Our guide will prepare us on what to expect for our afternoon mokoro excursion into the Okavango Delta. Route: Maun to Khwai Conservation area. Optional Activity: Okavango Delta scenic flight. Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions. Facilities - Accommodated: Permanent tent with en-suite bathroom. OVERNIGHT:. Khwai Tented Camp. MEALS:. Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch. EXTRAS:. None

Day 16

Moremi Game Reserve Area

Today is a full day game drive as we spend most of our day on safari in the Moremi Game Reserve in search of the species that roam the plains. Expect some bumpy roads as we traverse this wilderness area in our 4x4 vehicles. Offering habitats from wetland, open water to the grasslands and Savannah woodland, we hope to see as many specie s of fauna and flora possible. This evening we arrive back at Khwai to share and compare all the amazing sightings while on safari. Included Highlight: Full DAY Game Drive Moremi Game Reserve. Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions. Facilities - Accommodated: Permanent tent with en-suite bathroom. OVERNIGHT:. Khwai Tented Camp. MEALS:. Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch. EXTRAS:. None

Day 17

Khwai to Nata

Today’s journey from Khwai to Nata passes the Botswanan salt pans . You will pack up camp and depart at first light on the open 4x4 safari vehicles before meeting the Nomad truuck in Maun . The scenic drive from Maun to Nata showcases some of Botswana's breathtaking landscapes and the rich cultural heritage. Keep an eye open as there is always a chance of a wildlife encounter or two before reaching your overnight destination in Nata. This afternoon, after our arrival in Nata, we enjoy a guided drive to the Nata pans , which forms the breeding ground for a host of water birds including pelicans and flamingo in their thousands (birds dependant on seasonal migratory patterns). Route: Khwai Conservation Area to Nata. Included Highlight: Afternoon pans drive. Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions. Facilities - Accommodated: Two per room with en-suite bathroom. OVERNIGHT:. Nata lodge. MEALS:. Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch. EXTRAS:. None

Day 18

Chobe National Park

Those who have chosen to take the optional game drive in Chobe National Park will start early for their morning safari in open 4x4 vehicles. They'll return to camp for lunch before we all head out in the afternoon for a leisurely boat cruise which should afford us great views of some of the many elephants that make this park home (Chobe has some of the highest concentrations of African elephant on the planet). Included Highlight: Chobe National Park boat cruise. Optional Activity: Chobe National Park game drive. Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions. Facilities - Accommodated: Two per room with en-suite bathroom. OVERNIGHT. Thebe River Safaris. MEALS:. Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch. EXTRAS:. None

Day 19

Victoria Falls

We say goodbye to Botswana today as we cross the border into Zimbabwe and travel towards the Victoria Falls - one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and the major waterfall on the Zambezi River in Africa. You have the day free to explore this natural wonder at your leisure. There are a range of optional adventure activities to enjoy as well if you're looking for an adrenaline rush. If you're looking to relax, there are various craft markets and coffee shops to enjoy. Route: Kasane to Victoria Falls. Optional Activity: Victoria Falls entry fee, Zambezi Sunset Cruise. Facilities - Camping: Two per room with en-suite bathroom. Facilities - Accommodated: Two per room with en-suite bathroom. OVERNIGHT. Shearwater Explorers Village. MEALS:. Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch. EXTRAS. None

Day 20

Victoria Falls

The tour comes to an end after breakfast. With the variety of activities on offer in Victoria Falls, feel free to try some of them at your leisure. Optional Activity: Visit the Vic Falls, Zambezi Sunset Cruise, Bungee Jump, Helicopter Flights, White Water Rafting. OVERNIGHT:. Own Arrangements / Post tour accommodation can be booked. MEALS:. Breakfast. EXTRAS:. None

Tour Details

accommodation

19 night's accommodation either camping or in hotels/lodges/guesthouses/permanent camps (supplement applies)

flights

International flights are not included but may be available on request.

guide

Local guides for sightseeing tours and activities as per the itinerary

2 truck crew (driver/guide plus assistant)

insurance

Insurance is not included. Travel insurance is required for this tour. Please make sure you are adequately covered.

meals

19 breakfasts, 19 lunches and 19 dinners

optional

Extra nights and airport transfers are available before and after the tour.

Additional optional activities are available during the tour.

others

All 'included highlights' as mentioned in the itinerary

Visa fees if required

Locally available optional activities (see itinerary and tour notes)

'Accommodated hotel upgrade' (hotels/lodges/permanent camps instead of camping)

Drinks, snacks and other personal expenses (e.g. laundry)

Single Room Supplement (applicable when a same sex room share cannot be arranged - contact us for details)

Tips for guides and drivers

transport

All transport using a specially designed 25-seat expedition vehicle.

Additional safari vehicles may be used where required

Good to know

Currency

ZAR

Rand

South Africa

Customer reviews

Overall

Itinerary

Guide

Transport

Accommodation

Food

Operator

4.5

Faq Tour

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Yes, changes or cancellations are possible, however penalties may apply depending on the time before the tour starts.

What documents are required to participate in the tour?

You will need a passport with a valid visa (if required) to visit countries along the tour route.