Zimbabwe’s Zambezi to Botswana’s Chobe: In The Footsteps of Livingstone

Our guided journey follows the great wild corridors once traversed by David Livingstone. Each destination reveals its own rhythm and character: the legendary Mana Pools of the Zambezi Valley and the lapping shores of Lake Kariba, to the dramatic Zambezi Escarpment, the immense plains of Hwange National Park and the misty thunder of Victoria Falls, before culminating on the wildlife-rich floodplains of the Chobe. By the time we reach the Chobe River’s magical riverbanks, we’ll be ready to unwind after an adventure as varied as it is unforgettable.

The Itinerary

The adventure starts in Harare, where we gather supplies and prepare for the journey. Heading north, we pause at the Chinhoyi Caves, their cobalt-blue pool shimmering below, before descending into the ancient wilds of the Zambezi Valley. Spending two days in Mana Pools is an experience of a lifetime, rich with riverside, wildlife and with a possibility of the second night at the lion-haunted springs near the escarpment.

Ascending the escarpment, we continue to Kariba Town and cross the vast Lake Kariba by ferry to Matusadona National Park. Here, rugged mountains, miombo woodland and lakeside wildlife shape two tranquil nights. The route then rises for an overnight at the remote, gorge-cut wilderness of Chizarira National Park, offering cooler air and sweeping escarpment views.

A break from the Valley takes us for two nights to Hwange National Park, a classic savannah-and-teak landscape, famed for elephants and predators. We return to the Zambezi River at Victoria Falls, with its thunderous gorge system, spray and rainbows! Daring, adventure-activities are on offer for the brave!

Crossing into Botswana, we spend our final two nights on the Chobe River, where magical river cruises provide close encounters with swimming elephants amongst the abundant game of the Chobe National Park. Taking in a few luxuries of the lodge we rest, re-pack and enjoy our final evening together … until the next adventure.

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What is special?

  • It is a grand, overland route, following the wild travels of David Livingstone
  • A visit to the legendary Mana Pools
  • A ferry crossing and time on the shores of Lake Kariba
  • A night in the wild solitude of Chizarira National Park
  • A classic Hwange National Park visit
  • An intimate encounter with Victoria Falls
  • A restful and wildlife-filled finale on the Chobe River

Who is this for?

  • Adventurers comfortable with the road less travelled: remote locations, long travel days, and the rewards of reaching places seldom visited
  • Those who appreciate variety
  • Wildlife enthusiasts
  • Photographers and lovers of dramatic geography
  • Guests who enjoy rustic wilderness
  • Perfect for those who are Seasoned Wild and Wild Ready (per the ‘Find Your Wild’ quiz)