Epic Africa
This grand tour of Africa takes you to some of the most game rich regions in the south where you can enjoy a range of safari activities, from game drives to walking and boat safaris before you head east to the lush rainforests of Rwanda to find the mountain gorilla.
Journey highlights
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An incredible variety of safari experiences, from game drives, walking safaris, boat safaris and even canoeing and mokoro trips
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Visit the raging Victoria Falls, a UNESCO world heritage site
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Enjoy a sunset boat cruise on the mighty Zambezi
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The Lower Zambezi is renowned for fantastic canoeing
- Epic itinerary:Our Epic Journeys offer unforgettable cutting-edge hotels, experiences and restaurants with a focus on design, fashion and innovation
Our tailor made journeys include:
- Your dedicated Travel Consultant who will take care of arrangements
- Private international airport transfers in destination
- Your own private, English-speaking local guides
- Unique experiences, hand-picked by our Journeys team
- Entrance to must-see local sites
- Dedicated 24/7 team providing in-country support and guidance
- Complimentary access to My Scott Dunn – industry-leading travel app providing pre-departure information and in-journey support
When to visit
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Botswana’s winter is May to October when the weather is hot during the day (not stiflingly hot) and cold at night. Botswana's summer months (November to April) can be hot and humid and there is a chance of rain. Botswana has one rainy season which runs between mid-December and runs through to mid-March.
There are two very distinct seasons at the Victoria Falls, the wet/flood season and the dry season. These seasons do not reflect the quantity of rain, rather reflect the volume of flow of the Zambezi River. From around March through to July the river surges in size as the rainfall in Angola and Zambia from months before swells the current. The nights are cold and the days warm at this time of year. From around September to January the water levels drop, the falls are more accessible and views are clearer as the flow can drop in volume by 90%. It is worth noting that the rains come from late October through to February, this combined with high heat, 40 celsius or more, in October and November, causes high levels of humidity.
The Lower Zambezi has a moderate to sub-tropical climate with three distinct seasons: from November to March is the Emerald, or the rainy season, April to July is Zambia's winter, when the weather is cool and dry, and August to October is summer, when the weather is hot and dry. In terms of game viewing, the drier months, meaning a higher concentration of game at the permanent water sources, are a superb time to visit. Alternatively come for some superb birdwatching at the end of the rains.
Rwanda can be visited at any time of year. There are two annual rainy seasons: the long rains which last from mid-February to the beginning of June, and the short rains from mid-September to mid-December. Rainfall, especially over the mountains, is heavy during these two periods, particularly from March to May. The long dry season, June to September, is the best time for tracking gorillas in the Volcanoes National Park although their habitat is a rainforest and it can rain or be misty any day of the year, so it's best to be prepared for this.
Itinerary
Fly to Kasane
Nxabega Concession, Okavango Delta and Moremi, Botswana
Your epic vacation begins as you land in Maun and are transferred by light aircraft to your lodge in the Okavango Delta. Enjoy a scenic flight over the many water channels and lush green ecozystem of the Delta.
On landing into the airstrip, you will be met and transferred to your lodge where you will spend the first three nights of your trip. This part of Botswana is beautiful and you can expect reed-filled waterways, sparkling lagoons and lush grasslands. Each day here will be spent exploring either the land or water on day and night safaris, bush walks, and seasonal mokoro excursions amongst the reeds and waterways and boat safaris and even fishing. The Delta is well-known for being one of the best places in Africa for a safari and during a stay here you can expect to see elephant, lion, leopard, giraffe, red lechwe, hyena and much more.
Accommodation: &Beyond Nxabega Okavango Safari Camp ( 3 nights )
Livingstone, Zambia
Today you will be transferred via light aircraft up to Kasane and then by boat you will cross the Zambezi River into Zambia where you will be transferred to your next property located along the river where you will spend the next three nights.
This stretch of the river is a lot quieter than staying in Livingstone town, offering some peace and tranquillity while remaining close to the action. From the lodge you will be able to head to Victoria Falls for a guided tour, go on a game drive in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, enjoy a sunrise or sunset boat trip, as well as some cultural experiences like village and school visits.
For the thrill seekers, try out a micro-light flight over the falls, bungee jumping, white water rafting and even a helicopter flight over Victoria Falls (these experiences come at an extra cost).
Accommodation: Tongabezi ( 3 nights )
Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambia
Next, your vacation continues into the Lower Zambezi National Park in Zambia. You will spend the next three nights here in a lodge on the banks of the Zambezi River. Enjoy a feeling of being in an untouched wilderness where you will see hippo and crocodiles, as well as game like elephant, zebra, giraffe, leopard and buffalo.
Activities can be completely centerd around being on the river, with boat safaris and canoeing available as well as typical safari activities like game drives and walking safaris. Each day can be a busy or relaxed as you like, with plenty of opportunity to explore and enjoy this area of Zambia.
Accommodation: Sausage Tree Camp ( 3 nights )
Kigali, Kigali and central Rwanda, Rwanda
It is time to leave Southern Africa and head East. Today you will board a light charter flight and fly to Lusaka where you will board an international flight to Kigali, Rwanda.
Your first night will be spend in Kigali, the capital. Here you can relax, refresh and prepare for your gorilla trekking adventure.
Accommodation: The Retreat by Heaven ( 1 night )
Volcanoes National Park, Virungas and northern Rwanda, Rwanda
Today you will make your way up into the volcanic mountain range of Volcanoes National Park. Enjoy a three night stay looking out over an impressive landscape of magnificent volcanoes and lush green vegetation.
A trip to Rwanda would not be complete without a visit to the ‘Gorillas in the Mist’. Reminiscent of the days of classic explorers, you will hack your way through thick foliage, pushing aside tall prehistoric looking ferns until you find the gorilla family. Here you will have one spell binding hour in their presence, a truly memorable experience and a bucket list adventure for every wildlife enthusiast. During your stay you will gain an insight into the vibrant culture of Rwanda and the hospitality of these generous people and marvel at some of the most spectacular scenery.
Accommodation: Bisate Lodge ( 3 nights )
Fly from Kigali
Call us on 212 660 0228 to start planning your holiday.
Price Guide: (per person based on double occupancy and excludes international flights)
| Departing |
Price from*
|
Deposit from * | Enquire |
|---|---|---|---|
| November 2024 | $26,800 | $6,700 | plan your trip |
| December 2024 | $26,800 | $6,700 | plan your trip |
| April 2025 | $26,800 | $6,700 | plan your trip |
| May 2025 | $34,700 | $8,700 | plan your trip |
| June 2025 | $34,700 | $8,700 | plan your trip |
| July 2025 | $34,700 | $8,700 | plan your trip |
| August 2025 | $34,700 | $8,700 | plan your trip |
| September 2025 | $34,700 | $8,700 | plan your trip |
| October 2025 | $26,800 | $6,700 | plan your trip |
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November 2024
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$26,800
Deposit from*$6,700
-
December 2024
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$26,800
Deposit from*$6,700
-
April 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$26,800
Deposit from*$6,700
-
May 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$34,700
Deposit from*$8,700
-
June 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$34,700
Deposit from*$8,700
-
July 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$34,700
Deposit from*$8,700
-
August 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$34,700
Deposit from*$8,700
-
September 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$34,700
Deposit from*$8,700
-
October 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$26,800
Deposit from*$6,700
- plan your trip
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