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Devil's Cataract in Zimbabwe

Southern Africa: Travel to the Ends of the Earth

Example 9 Day Cruise aboard Zimbabwean Dream
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At the edge of a fast-paced world, southern Africa’s beautiful, tranquil landscapes await. From Johannesburg to Victoria Falls, you’ll not only discover spectacular panoramas and tumultuous histories, but also incredible wildlife and carefully crafted menus that reflect the flavors and savors of Africa. This in-depth tour will take you to the heart of one of the most beautiful natural reserves—Chobe National Park. On board your ship, you’ll discover the secrets of Lake Kariba—a veritable oasis at the other end of the earth—before taking in the grandeur of what David Livingstone called the “smoke that thunders,” Victoria Falls. 
Lion in Chobe National ParkVictoria Falls, ZambiaHippo in Chobe National ParkElephant herd crossing the Chobe river at sunsetDevil's Cataract in Zimbabwe
Highlights
  • Hike to Victoria falls, where you will have exceptional views
  • Encounter hippos, crocodiles, elephants and other wildlife
  • Discover the traditions of Impalila Island from a local
  • Visit Chobe National Park for a water safari experience
Places Visited
Activity Level: Relaxed
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Johannesburg, South Africa

Before lunch, meet your guide at the hotel and depart by a coach. Have lunch before visiting the Apartheid Museum which opened in 2001. It is famous the world over for being the first museum centering on South African history in the 20th century, and more particularly on Apartheid. Afterward, set off for a panoramic tour of the city. In addition to being South Africa’s financial capital, Johannesburg is also the city of superlatives. It is indeed the richest town in Africa, with the tallest buildings and widest social discrepancies, but is also infused with one of the best atmospheres you can ever come across. Arrive at a four-star hotel LS where you are welcome to settle into your rooms before dinner. Spend the night at the hotel.

Day 2: Fly to Kasane, Botswana

  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
This morning you'll fly from Johannesburg to Kasane, Botswana. Transfer from the airport to your lodge on board a small private boat. During this water-transfer, you can observe numerous bird species living among the flooded flatlands. You may even catch a glimpse of a few hippos or crocodiles basking in the sun! Receive warm greetings from the crew upon arrival and settle into your comfortable lodge. Enjoy your dinner and spend the night at the lodge in absolute tranquility at the heart of the wilderness.

Day 3: Chobe National Park

  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Enjoy a full-day jeep safari journey to explore the Chobe National Park, home to more than 1/4 of the total elephant population in Africa. You'll have lunch in a “floating restaurant” in the middle of the river where the views of the surrounding nature are unparalleled. Afterward, board a small private boat and sail along the Chobe River all the way to Sedudu Island and its marshes. Enjoy your dinner and spend the night at the lodge.

Day 4: Impalila Island

  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Today, you'll visit the villages on Impalila Island, Namibia, to discover the traditional Namibian houses, culture, and customs. Return to the lodge for lunch. This afternoon, you can enjoy leisure time at the lodge, taking advantage of the pool and comfortable fittings, or join a discovery of the Zambezi River on a small private boat. After having dinner at the lodge, a local will tell you all about the traditions of this particular island. Overnight at the lodge.

Day 5: Kasane | Lake Kariba | Embark the African Dream

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
This morning partake in one last water safari in the Chobe National Park area. After lunch, transfer to the Kasane airport. Aboard private planes, you will be amazed at the stunning panoramas over Lake Kariba and the changing landscapes of the wilderness during your flight from Kasane to Kariba. You will transfer to the ship and settle into your cabins. Begin sailing across Lake Kariba, which reaches over 140mi/200km in length and spanning a distance of approximately 25mi/40km at its widest point, the lake flooded flatlands, hills and forests alike, creating unique and emblematic landscapes. Enjoy your dinner and night on board.

Day 6: Lake Kariba | Sailing on the Gache-Gache River

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
At sunrise, set sail through the rare and mysterious landscapes of Lake Kariba where drowned trees reach skywards from the depths of the reflecting water. Board a small private boat to discover the Gache Gache River and its unique wildlife. Gliding along its meanders, large bends, and small, unspoiled inlets, you will be amazed by the magical atmosphere all around. Return on board for lunch. This afternoon, the ship sails towards Changa. When the sun starts to set, board a small private boat to admire the changing colors of the sky.

Day 7: Lake Kariba | Matusadona National Park

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
This morning, journey out on a safari to discover the area around Matusadona National Park. Bordered by the Sanyati and Ume Rivers, this 1,400km²/540 sq mi-large untouched area is home to numerous animal species such as elephants, hippos, crocodiles, buffalos as well as thousands of birds, among which the legendary African Sea Eagle, the majestic Yellow-billed Stork, or the Black Heron with its interesting hunting method. You might be lucky enough to cross paths with a big cat or two! The history of the park is closely linked with that of the lake: during the construction of the dam, the rising floodwaters affected the native wildlife although the damage was mitigated by Operation Noah, an initiative which saved the lives of over 6,000 animals. This rescue operation allowed for large mammals, big cats, impalas and more to be moved to Matusadona where hunting is strictly prohibited. Enjoy your lunch on board and start sailing again. During this time, take the opportunity to join the round table and learn more about the creation of the lake, its inhabitants as well as its ecosystem. 

Day 8: Kariba | Disembark | Victoria Falls

  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
At sunrise, set sail towards Kariba to disembark and transfer to the airport. Discover the gigantic Kariba Dam which was created in 1955 to form Lake Kariba. Today, the dam serves as a source of electric power for 70% of Zimbabwe. Learn about the history and legends surrounding the creation of the lake, including the tale of NyamiNyami, the river god. Fly to Victoria Falls onboard private planes. Lunch will be served on a Zambezi River cruise, upstream from the falls. This afternoon, disembark the boat for a walking tour of the falls where the views are among the most exceptional in the world. Observe where the Zambezi River plunges over the cliff to become the widest waterfall in the world, creating the “smoke that thunders.” Tonight, enjoy dinner and spend the night at a four-star hotel.

Day 9: Victoria Falls

  • 1 Breakfast
Enjoy your breakfast this morning. If you wish, there is an optional early morning excursion to soar over Victoria Falls in a helicopter (must be booked before departure). 

Ship/Hotel

Zimbabwean Dream

Johannesburg - Hotels

Dates & Prices

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Per person starting at
$7,701
Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
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Suite
17 square meters. 6 suites, all open to the outside. Suites include a safe, air-conditioning, 22V voltage and adapters, TV, hairdryer, lounge chairs, and exterior sofas
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Balcony Suite
17 square meters. 2 suites, open to the outside with a private balcony. Balcony Suites include a safe, air-conditioning, 22V voltage and adapters, TV, hairdryer, lounge chairs, and exterior sofas

Notes

15% discount for children between 7-15 years sharing a cabin with adult
Children under 7 years old are not allowed for security reasons.

Solo travelers are subject to a single supplement.
Included
  • 8 Breakfasts, 8 Lunches, 8 Dinners
  • 4 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Travel assistance and repatriation insurance
  • Double-occupancy cabin with shower in bathroom
  • Excursions included in the package selected
  • All port fees
  • Gratuities
  • Domestic Flights
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Drinks from the special lists, or drinks ordered during excursions or transfers
  • Cancellation and baggage insurance
  • International flights and their taxes

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Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!
Meyer Smolen

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