Lionesse on a tree in Chobe National Park, Botswana

Southern Africa Safaris & Tours

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<p>A combination of the lush wetlands of Botswana’s Okavango Delta and the famous plains of South Africa’s Kruger National Park only brush the surface of the iconic experiences you can have on a custom Southern Africa Safari from Zicasso. Ultimate luxuries, serene remoteness, and breathtaking wildlife will accompany you on a trip to remember in this fascinating region. Explore the range of experiences to be had in the inspirational itineraries below.</p>

A combination of the lush wetlands of Botswana’s Okavango Delta and the famous...

A combination of the lush wetlands of Botswana’s Okavango Delta and the famous plains of South Africa’s Kruger National Park only brush the surface of the iconic experiences you can have on a custom Southern Africa Safari from Zicasso. Ultimate luxuries, serene remoteness, and breathtaking wildlife will accompany you on a trip to remember in this fascinating region. Explore the range of experiences to be had in the inspirational itineraries below.

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Cable car to the top of Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa
Best of Southern Africa in 12 Days

12 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $8,731

Fascinating indigenous wildlife, spectacular unspoiled sceneries, and immersive historic culture sweep large regions and underpin many communities peppering South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. For 12 days, explore the best of these countries and embrace the opportunities to spot beautiful flora and fauna, gaze across iconic African safari spectacles, and delve into the cultures of the local people. The southern slice of Africa is a dream to be discovered.

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Tourists on mokoro boat safari observing an elephant in the Okavango Delta
Exceptional South Africa and Botswana: Sabi Sands to Okavango Delta

12 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $14,035

Seek out the sensational experiences sweeping South Africa and Botswana on this handcrafted 12-day tour beginning in the impressive wildlife sanctuary of Sabi Sands Game Reserve. You will indulge in the country’s iconic safari scenes before immersing yourself in Cape culture and sipping on sumptuous wines in Cape Town and Franschhoek. Heading for Botswana thereafter, the majesty of the untouched Okavango Delta will await your exploration.

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Baobab trees under the night sky in the Makgadikgadi Pan
African Grandeur: Botswana and Zimbabwe

9 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $7,015

Discover the grandeur of an African safari on this customizable 9-day tour of Botswana and Zimbabwe, leading from the sweeping Makgadikgadi Salt Pans to the Okavango Delta floodplains and culminating at the jaw-dropping Victoria Falls. Along the way, embrace the spectacular scenery of each of these destinations, including flourishing environments and sparse savannas teeming with diverse wildlife indigenous to Africa.

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Pride of lions in Selinda Reserve, Botswana
Luxury Botswana Classic: Waterways and Landscapes

10 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $14,295

Revel in the luxuries of Botswana’s immaculate safari resorts and cherish encounters with the wondrous wildlife inhabiting the country’s untouched reserves on this glamorous ten-day adventure along the Chobe River, within the Selinda Reserve, and across the Duba Plains Private Reserve. Every destination and activity is tailored to sharing opulence within the wilderness and will unveil the beauty of this beloved country.

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Herd of springbok antelopes in South Africa
10-Day Classic South Africa Safari for First-Timers

10 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $5,585

Let Cape Town’s cosmopolitan charm and cultural allure dazzle you, Franschhoek’s deep-rooted history and wine-making heritage entice you, and Sabi Sands Game Reserve’s gorgeous green grasslands and abundant wildlife enchant you on this 10-day classic South African tour and safari. With guided experiences and time at leisure allowing you to experience the best of these destinations, the stage is set for a spectacular stay.

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The Dhow Bar on the beach at andBeyond Benguerra Island.
Bush and Beach: South Africa and Mozambique in 10 Days

10 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $10,395

From the brilliant bushveld of South Africa’s renowned Sabi Sands Game Reserve to the breathtaking beaches of Mozambique’s beloved Benguerra Island, this tailored 10-day luxe bush and beach vacation shows off the spellbinding sensations sweeping Africa’s captivating coastal castaways and island escapes. Discover fascinating indigenous game, soak up the luxuries of seaside living, and embrace the beauty of untamed Africa during this tour.

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Franschhoek winelands in Western Cape, South Africa
21-Day South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe Adventure

21 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $16,375

In South Africa, Cape Town shines a spotlight on the country’s remarkable history and shares exquisite tastes of the Western Cape’s famous wines. In Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls lives up to its status as a Natural World Wonder. And in Botswana, the wilderness beckons visitors to embrace its endless beauty. These are Africa’s pinnacle destinations you may discover during this unforgettable 21-day vacation from the Cape to Moremi Game Reserve.

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Young leopard drinking from a watering hole in Sabi Sands, South Africa
Boundless Beauty: 17-Day South Africa and Mozambique

17 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $14,921

From the dazzling suburbs of the city of gold, Johannesburg, to the sweeping lush plains of Sabi Sands Game Reserve and from the bustling districts and gorgeous coastline of Cape Town to the pristine beaches of Ponta Mamoli, this 17-day tour is tailored to showcasing what makes South Africa and Mozambique must-visit destinations. Embrace their boundless beauty, from the untouched wilderness to the immaculate coastlines during your stay.

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Large male lion walking through the tall grass on the Okavango Delta, Botswana
7-Day Classic Delta Tour

7 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $5,910

From blazing campfires in Moremi Game Reserve under the starry night sky to safari drives and motorboat cruises across the pearl islands of the Okavango Delta, Botswana's beauty is yours to behold during your adventures over this tailormade 7-day tour. Discover the marvelous wilderness wonders stretching from the heart of the delta to its furthest corners, embracing safari in Botswana like never before.

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Cruising the Chobe river in Botswana aboard the Chobe Princesses by Mantis
Bucket List Botswana: Victoria Falls, Chobe, Moremi and Central Kalahari

11 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $11,226

Visiting the colossal pounding streams of the Victoria Falls and then continuing to Botswana’s breathtaking reserves, this handcrafted 11-day safari tour is bound to share many remarkable encounters with marvelous animals and vivid birdlife, among other spectacular wilderness scenes. From Chobe National Park to the Central Kalahari, explore the phenomenally diverse environments, teeming with beautiful life, that sweep across the country.

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Hippopotamus and crane standing in the grass in Botswana
Safari, Rivers and Waterfalls: 13-Day Zimbabwe & Botswana

13 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $10,135

Leave no stone unturned on this tailor-made 13-day adventure safari from Zimbabwe’s marvelous national parks to the breathtaking reserves of Botswana. Discover the majesty of Matobo, sensational sights speckling the Zambezi River and Victoria Falls, captivating creatures dwelling in Chobe’s diverse environments, and wondrous wildlife sweeping the plains of Moremi Game Reserve through many magnificent safari experiences from the regions’ fully-equipped lodges and campsites.

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Sugarbird hummingbird sitting on the endemic fynbos pincushion protea flower in Cape Town, South Africa
21-Day South Africa: Birding Safari

21 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $16,375

Let South Africa’s cosmopolitan cities seduce you, its vast, rich landscapes inspire you, its iconic animal sightings allure you, and its fabulous colorful birdlife enchant you on this safari and birding exploration from Umhlanga to Cederberg. On the journey, history and culture will come to life as nature awakens within the plains and bushveld surrounding you, an experience that will be richly rewarding.

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Southern Africa Explorer: Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia Safari

16 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $10,091

Southern Africa abounds with heavenly landscapes that dance with color and contrast. Bright red sand dunes, hippo-filled wetlands, and elephant-covered plains are all yours to take in. This 16-day tour explores the region’s astonishing natural highlights as you enjoy the best of Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Namibia. You will go deep into the wilderness with Bushmen guides to uncover untamed Africa from the ground, the water, and the air. As you consider your destinations, be sure to look through other itineraries and safaris in Zimbabwe to perfect your African safari vacation.

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Adventurous Southern Africa Tour

12 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $14,035

Experience the thrill of a lifetime during your 12-day South Africa adventure tour brimming with extreme marvels. Plunge into scenic views with the wind on your cheeks as you paraglide from Table Mountain and witness the ferocious gaze of a great white shark from the safety of a submerged cage. Capture the dizzying feeling of weightlessness during a scenic skydiving excursion and search an opulent game reserve for signs of traipsing rhinoceros or camouflaged leopards. Whether whitewater rafting, kayaking, or relaxing with an award-winning glass of wine, your South Africa tour promises hair-raising thrills and exclusive experiences.

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Southern Africa Safari and Culture Tour

14 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $9,095

Africa is an untouched paradise, home to ancient civilizations that existed at the dawn of time. Here is an opportunity to discover Africa’s magic on a 14-day adventure into the wilds. Find out what going on safari is really like as you drive into the bush in special 4x4 vehicles to watch animals going about their daily activities in their natural habitat. Experience what it’s like to dine under the stars in a traditional African boma before heading off for a good night’s sleep in some of Africa’s finest game lodges. Then waken at dawn to enjoy another game drive to view a variety of animals and birds, including the famous Big Five. Your tour guides know the bush intimately, and they will share their knowledge as well as some of Africa’s deepest mysteries with you.

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Hidden Southern Africa: A Luxury Overland Safari Through Zimbabwe

14 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $14,191

Delight in all the intimate details with an overland journey through the heart of Southern Africa. Crossing famous wildernesses and connecting the highlights of Zimbabwe, this private adventure plots a course to the essence of the African experience. Spot rhinos on foot, discover over a hundred mammal species, explore exotic ecosystems and feel the beauty of an untouched land. From Johannesburg to Victoria Falls, this 2-week journey is what Africa is all about.

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Signature Southern Africa: Cape Town Tour, Kruger Safari & Victoria Falls Itinerary

11 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $6,573

Evocative and exclusive, this signature safari unravels the colors and charms of Southern Africa. Every day takes you on a journey through surprise and wonder: walking with rhinos, hidden vineyards, prowling lions, watching elephants from a private pool, a helicopter ride above Victoria Falls. With handpicked lodges and privately guided safari activities, it’s a 2-week adventure that blends the icons of a region, with the treats that only the insiders know about.

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Icons of Southern Africa: Botswana Safari, Victoria Falls & Cape Town

12 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $11,227

Southern Africa's icons sound like myths doused in the tales of legend on this 12-day safari itinerary. A desert oasis larger than many European countries, 100,000 elephants in the forest, vertical mountains high above oceans and city, and cascades that defy notions of scale. With six days of Botswana safari as its centerpiece, this luxury itinerary envelops you in the icons of Southern Africa, unraveling the fictitious images to provide an intimate connection with the best of the continent.

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Best of Okavango & Southern Africa Safari by Private Plane

12 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $16,531

The natural wonders of Southern Africa come alive when seen from the air as the beautiful expressions of the wild blur into each other with a primitive charm. Private air charters showcase the region's wonders from an inspiring angle, and when you touch down, the thrills of the Big Five ensure an exciting safari adventure. This 12-day aerial safari will connect Southern Africa's highlights, from the Kruger savannah to the Kalahari desert and the sublime Okavango Delta to Victoria Falls.

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Enchanting Couples Escape: South Africa, Zimbabwe and Seychelles

14 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $10,915

Victoria Falls is a Natural World Wonder that is more magnificent than words can describe, Cape Town is a vibrant cosmopolitan cityscape that shares rich South African heritage, Lion Sands Game Reserve is an untamed wildlife sanctuary in the Greater Kruger National Park, and Mahe Island is a pristine seascape getaway in the Seychelles archipelago. For 14 days, explore these world-famous destinations with your partner on an enchanting couples escape.

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Weeklong Safari Adventure in Botswana and Zimbabwe

8 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $9,355

Wilderness reigns across Zimbabwe and Botswana, and you will explore these breathtaking destinations during this immersive 8-day safari experience from Victoria Falls to Chobe National Park, and ending in Moremi Game Reserve. Each destination is teeming with wildlife you will discover while partaking in stunning safari activities, from soaring helicopter tours over the staggering Victoria Falls to enchanting boat cruises across the Okavango Delta.

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5 Star Safari: South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe

13 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $18,585

Botswana’s wilderness beauty is boundless, spreading well beyond the flourishing wetlands and sprawling plains of the Okavango Delta. Neighboring countries also share the majesty of Africa, and this tailored five-star tour from South Africa to Botswana and concluding in Zimbabwe will provide unforgettable experiences within immaculate wilderness environments. Extravagant accommodations, enchanting game sightings, and emblematic African scenes await discerning travelers on this luxurious vacation.

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Self-Drive 16-Day Adventure: Botswana and Namibia

16 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $12,475

From sweeping canary-colored savannas to flourishing teal wetlands to rolling jade-hued grasslands, Botswana’s safari getaways share the country’s exquisitely diverse environments, and this tailored tour is designed to spotlight the remarkable wilderness inhabiting these untouched sanctuaries. Whether fishing in the great wetlands of the Okavango Delta, enjoying boating safaris across the Zambezi River, or sightseeing at the world-famous Victoria Falls, discover Botswana’s breathtaking trail.

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Botswana and Zimbabwe: 11-Day Diverse Habitats

11 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $8,575

From the jaw-dropping wildlife paradise that is Hwange National Park to the otherworldly spectacles of Victoria Falls and the sweeping scenes encompassing Chobe National Park to the breathtaking wildlife discoveries of Moremi Game Reserve, appreciate the immaculately diverse habitats spreading across Zimbabwe and Botswana on this riveting 11-day African safari. The stage is set to spotlight the continent’s rich tapestry of wilderness environments through iconic African safari experiences.

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Life-Enriching Travel Designed Just for You

  1. 1

    Trips curated by the world’s top destination experts

  2. 2

    Concierge-level service leading up to and during your trip

  3. 3

    Unique, exclusive experiences and insider access

Travel Tips for Your Southern Africa Safari
What countries are in Southern Africa?

From the lush floodplains of the Okavango to the vast bushveld of the Kruger National Park, Southern Africa promises spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife. Whether you are looking for the Big 5 or prolific birdlife, these are the countries in Southern Africa you can visit on our safaris:

When is the best time to go on safari in Southern Africa?

The peak safari season in Southern Africa runs from April through October, when the region experiences cool, dry weather. During these months, wildlife is more concentrated around scarce water sources, making for excellent game viewing.

Botswana's Okavango Delta offers a unique water-based safari as its channels flood from April to August. This inundation attracts wildlife like elephants, buffalo, and hippos. The dry season from September to October also brings large herds to the Delta. South Africa's Kruger National Park also offers excellent game viewing during these times of the year as vegetation is sparse, increasing visibility.

With strategic planning, a Southern African safari delivers an unforgettable experience year-round, whether you visit in the dry or wet season. The right time for your safari depends on your travel preferences, and we can help you find the best time in your preferred destination.

Where should I go on safari in Southern Africa?

Southern Africa is home to some of the world's top safari destinations. When planning your luxury safari adventure, be sure to consider these renowned safari spots and more remarkable places to visit in southern Africa:

  • Okavango Delta, Botswana: Okavango Delta is a must-visit safari destination thanks to its serene beauty, abundance of wildlife, and exotic mokoro canoe excursions that provide an intimate vantage point in the lush wetlands.
  • Kruger National Park, South Africa: As South Africa's largest game reserve, Kruger National Park offers exceptional Big 5 and wildlife sightings across its vast landscape of diverse habitats, making it one of Africa's iconic safari destinations.
  • Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe: With its pristine wilderness setting along the Zambezi River and abundant wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, and hundreds of species of birds, Mana Pools offers a spectacular and remote safari experience.
  • South Luangwa National Park, Zambia: South Luangwa is renowned for its high concentration of wildlife, including lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, and birdlife, and its walking safaris allow visitors to intimately encounter the park's diverse ecosystems and wildlife.
What are the best safari experiences in Southern Africa?

When visiting Southern Africa, there are so many incredible things to do to make the most of your safari experience. Here are some of the best safari activities and experiences this region has to offer:

  • Explore the bush on game drives in search of the Big 5 and other wildlife
  • Walk with experienced guides to get closer to the sights and sounds of the bush
  • Embark on an aerial safari by helicopter for a thrilling new safari perspective
  • Float gently over the plains and treetops for unique views by hot-air balloon
  • Glide silently through the deltas of Botswana on a traditional mokoro canoe
What animals can I see on a safari in Southern Africa?

The abundance and diversity of wildlife in Southern Africa is simply astonishing. Each national park and private game reserve promises its own unique adventures and concentrations of iconic animals, including but not limited to these top animals to see:

  • Lion
  • Leopard
  • Elephant
  • Rhino
  • Buffalo
  • Giraffe
  • Cheetah
  • African wild dog
  • Hyena
  • Zebra
  • Impala
  • Kudu
What should I pack for a safari in Southern Africa?

A Southern African safari promises grand adventures and amazing encounters with iconic wildlife. Be sure to come prepared with the proper safari attire, gear, and essentials to make your experience comfortable, safe and memorable. In addition to your personal items, we recommend packing:

  • Neutral, light-colored clothing
  • Lightweight, waterproof rain jacket
  • Long pants for bush walks
  • Hiking boots or walking shoes
  • Daypack
  • Camera with a zoom lens and extra memory cards
  • Binoculars
  • Insect repellent
  • UV protection, including but not limited to sunscreen, hats, lip balm, and sunglasses
What desert can I visit on safari in Southern Africa?

Southern Africa is home to the vast Kalahari Desert and Namibia's Namib Desert, offering a completely different desert safari experience.

Covering much of Botswana, as well as parts of Namibia and South Africa, the Kalahari is a fossil desert featuring iconic red sand dunes alongside stretches of lush, green grasslands when rains permit. Stretching nearly 1000 miles along Namibia's Atlantic coast, the Namib is the oldest desert on Earth, with towering red sand dunes, rocky plains, and ethereal fog that rolls in from the ocean.

Each of these iconic desert landscapes offers travelers a chance to experience unique safari adventures away from the crowds at other popular parks and reserves.

How safe are Southern Africa safaris?

Safaris throughout Southern Africa are safe.

Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa all have superb reputations as premier safari destinations. By heeding the instructions of your highly-trained safari guide and rangers, you can safely observe incredible creatures like lions, elephants, and rhinos in their natural habitats. Lodges and camps also take extensive security measures to keep guests safe and secure within park boundaries.

Outside of reserves, petty crimes like pickpocketing and theft can occur in some urban areas, but are uncommon on a Southern African safari within the tourism infrastructure. Practicing basic vigilance in securing valuables and passports and working closely with your guides greatly minimizes any security issues.

What are your most popular Southern Africa safari itineraries?

Whether you seek classic big game sightings or prefer going off the beaten path for more intimate encounters, we can help tailor the perfect experience just for you. Here are some of our most popular Southern African safari itineraries to spark your imagination:

Explore more information and inspiration in our Southern Africa travel guide.

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