I am interested in your tour for this September. I would like to know about the accommodation, ie how many days I would stay at camp site vs lodge. Do I need to erect my own tent each time? Do I need to bring own sleeping bag and blanket?

To answer your question on camping versus lodge we give you the choice of two options for the accommodation on this Overland tour, both available on the trip. Each option stays in the same place each night, just using a different level of accommodation. Camping: As the name suggests, the majority of your time will be spent camping. We include easily erected tents and camping mattresses; all you need to bring is a sleeping bag & towel (and pillow if you need one). Some nights spent in towns and cities may be spent in hotel or lodge rooms instead of camping - please see the itinerary for details. During hotel stays, all couples will be given a private double room. Friends booking together will also share a room. Accommodated: This level is designed to bridge the gap between a basic camping tour and an expensive lodge holiday. So, we use good quality hotels, lodges and camps rated at the local 2 to 4-star level, with the majority of rooms en-suite. In some places more basic properties with separate bathrooms, or permanent safari tents may be used. We aim always to use accommodation that is in keeping with the local area so there is a good variety. Local star ratings may vary slightly from international standards. Accommodation is based on twin or double rooms, chalets, bungalows or safari tents. All couples will be given a private double room. Friends booking together will also share a room.

I am booking a family trip for 4 and I'm interested in the Grand Southern Safari tour. I see that it is a medium intensity tour. My parents are older and prefer an easier more laid back trip while my sister and I are fine with more intense activities. Would it be okay for my parents to skip some of the more demanding activities, or is it more of a fast paced trip? Would you recommend us to book an easier more relaxing trip?

To answer your question about the suitability of this trip. I think it could be the perfect balance for your family if you went for the accommodated rather than the camping option. It is easy going and any hikes or longer walks for example can easily be skipped.

How much would a solo supplement be. ALSO, how much would the supplement be for staying in hotels, lodges, etc.?

Camping - US$3765.00 per person with an optional single supplement of US$295.00. Accommodated - US$5715.00 per person with a mandatory single supplement of US$705.00.

Would you be able to pair me up with another single traveler?

This trip operates based on 4 to 24 people. On the 13th December 2025 date we don't currently have anyone booked, therefore the trip will likely not be running. We can help with the date from the 20th of Dec 2025 to the 8th of Jan 2026: Accommodated - US$ 5190 plus mandatory single supplement of US$605, Camping - US$3495 and an optional single supplement of US$255. Would this date be of interest to you?

Your tour map shows you going to Zambia at the end, but there is not mention of it in the itinerary. Can you please explain this?

We will see how we can edit the map pins so it shows that the trip ends in Victoria Falls on the Zimbabwe side, not the Zambia side.

What are the booking payment options?

Booking payments can typically be made via major credit cards, bank transfers, or other designated platforms as specified by the tour provider.

What is the cost for fully accommodated tour?

The accommodated price for the 5th of Jul 2025 to the 24th of Jul 2025 is priced at A$8405.00 per person sharing, 2 per room. Included: 19 night's accommodation in hotels/lodges/guesthouses/camps, All transport on a fully equipped 25-seat expedition vehicle, All 'included highlights' as mentioned in the itinerary, 2 truck crew (driver/guide plus assistant/cook), Local guides for sightseeing tours and activities as per the itinerary, Meals as indicated in the itinerary.

What is included and excluded in the tour price?

The tour price typically includes all accommodations, transport, and most meals as per the itinerary, already planned out. Flights, visa fees, and personal expenses are excluded.

What are the transportation options during the tour?

The transport options throughout the tour include a fully equipped expedition vehicle, applicable to all activities as mentioned in the itinerary.

How can I upgrade accommodations during the tour?

You can upgrade your accommodations on certain nights subject to room availability at that location when you arrive.

From

US $3,765 per person

The Grand Southern Safari

20 days

•

From Cape Town to Victoria Falls

4.5 (2 reviews)

View all
It was absolutely FANTASTIC! It was very well organized & I can't say anything but great things about it.
Kim•traveled in July5.0
View all

From

US $3,765 per person

Price based on Cheapest Room

Price based on Shared Room

Price based on Private Single Room

Price based on Private Double Room

Booking needs min. 2 travelers

Select Date

1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Best price guarantee Learn More

Plan your adventure:

Gold Operator: Encounters Travel
Safari: Track iconic wildlife on unforgettable game drives
Group Tour: Join a group and forge lifelong friendships
Fully Guided: An experienced guide will be with you for the entire tour
Medium Intensity: Travelers should be comfortable with somewhat-demanding activities
Guided in English
Group Size 4 - 20
Ages 10+

Image of a map showing the route of the tour

Itinerary

Day 1
Cape Town to Cederberg
Cape Town to Cederberg
Meals
Dinner
Landmarks
Cederberg
Day 2
Citrusdal to Orange River
Citrusdal to Orange River
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Activities
- Spring Wild Flowers viewing (July – September)
Landmarks
Namaqualand
Orange River
Day 3
Orange River to Fish River Canyon
Orange River to Fish River Canyon
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Activities
- Scenic walk along the rim of Fish River Canyon
Optional Activities
- Canoe on the Orange River
Landmarks
Fish River Canyon
Day 4
Keetmanshoop to Namib-Naukluft National Park
Keetmanshoop to Namib-Naukluft National Park
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Activities
- Quiver Tree Forest visit
- Giant's Playground visit
Landmarks
Quiver Tree Forest
Giant's Playground
Namib-Naukluft National Park
Day 5
Namib-Naukluft National Park
Namib-Naukluft National Park
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Activities
- Sesriem Canyon visit (accommodated departures)
- Hike up Dune 45
- 4x4 shuttle to Sossusvlei / Deadvlei
Landmarks
Dune 45
Sossusvlei
Deadvlei
Sesriem Canyon
Day 6
Namib-Naukluft National Park to Swakopmund
Namib-Naukluft National Park to Swakopmund
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Dinner out at a local restaurant)
Included Activities
- Guided desert walk with local expert
- Tropic of Capricorn stop
Landmarks
Tropic of Capricorn
Day 7
Swakopmund
Swakopmund
Meals
Breakfast
Optional Activities
- Dolphin cruise
- Skydiving
- Sandboarding
- Quad biking
Landmarks
Swakopmund
Day 8
Swakopmund to Brandberg
Swakopmund to Brandberg
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Activities
- Brandberg Hike
Landmarks
Walvis Bay
Lichen Fields
Brandberg
White Lady (Brandberg rock art)
Day 9
Brandberg to Etosha National Park
Brandberg to Etosha National Park
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Landmarks
Etosha National Park
Etosha Pan
Day 10
Etosha National Park
Etosha National Park
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Activities
- Afternoon game drive in truck
Landmarks
Etosha Pan
Day 11
Etosha National Park
Etosha National Park
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Activities
- Afternoon Game drive
Day 12
Etosha National Park to Divundu
Etosha National Park to Divundu
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Landmarks
Kavango River
Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area
Day 13
Divundu
Divundu
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Activities
- Morning Boat Cruise
Optional Activities
- Afternoon game drive into Mahangu National Park
Landmarks
Mahangu National Park
Day 14
Divundu to Maun
Divundu to Maun
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Landmarks
Okavango Delta
Day 15
Maun to Khwai Conservation Area
Maun to Khwai Conservation Area
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Activities
- Okavango Delta scenic flight
Landmarks
Okavango Delta
Khwai Conservation Area
Day 16
Khwai Conservation Area
Khwai Conservation Area
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Activities
- Full day Game Drive Moremi Game Reserve
Landmarks
Moremi Game Reserve
Day 17
Khwai Conservation Area to Nata
Khwai Conservation Area to Nata
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Activities
- Salt Pans viewpoint (seasonal access dependant)
Landmarks
Botswanan Salt Pans
Day 18
Nata to Kasane
Nata to Kasane
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Activities
- Chobe National Park boat cruise
Landmarks
Chobe National Park
Day 19
Kasane to Victoria Falls
Kasane to Victoria Falls
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Optional Activities
- Chobe National Park game drive
- Optional dinner at a local restaurant
Landmarks
Victoria Falls
Batoka Gorge
Day 20
Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls
Meals
Breakfast
Optional Activities
- Visit Victoria Falls
- Zambezi Sunset Cruise
- Bungee Jump
- Helicopter Flights
- White Water Rafting
Landmarks
Victoria Falls

Landmarks
Cederberg

Landmarks
Namaqualand
Orange River

Landmarks
Fish River Canyon

Landmarks
Quiver Tree Forest
Giant's Playground
Namib-Naukluft National Park

Landmarks
Dune 45
Sossusvlei
Deadvlei
Sesriem Canyon

Landmarks
Tropic of Capricorn

Landmarks
Swakopmund

Landmarks
Walvis Bay
Lichen Fields
Brandberg
White Lady (Brandberg rock art)

Landmarks
Etosha National Park
Etosha Pan

Landmarks
Etosha Pan

Landmarks
Kavango River
Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area

Landmarks
Mahangu National Park

Landmarks
Okavango Delta

Landmarks
Okavango Delta
Khwai Conservation Area

Landmarks
Moremi Game Reserve

Landmarks
Botswanan Salt Pans

Landmarks
Chobe National Park

Landmarks
Victoria Falls
Batoka Gorge

Landmarks
Victoria Falls

What's Included

Expand All

Accommodation
Guide
Meals
Additional Services
Transport

What's Not Included

Flights
Insurance
Optional
Additional Services

Operated by

Encounters Travel

Gold Operator

Rating: 4.5 (895 reviews)
Response time: 10 hours
Response rate: 74%
Cancellation policy

Traveler Reviews

4.5

Overall rating based on 2 Reviews

Itinerary
4.5
Transport
4.0
Guide
4.5
Accommodation
4.5
Food
4.5
Tour Operator
4.5

Kim5.0•July 2025
It was awhile ago that I took this tour but it was absolutely FANTASTIC! Wonderful guide and driver. He was...
Show more
Traveled in June 2018
Reply from: Encounters Travel
Thank you so much for your wonderful review, Kim! We’re thrilled to hear that your Grand Southern Safari left such a lasting impression - even after some time, that’s exactly the kind of experience we aim to create. It’s fantastic to know you found the tour so well organised and that your guide made it even more memorable - we’ll be sure to pass along your kind words. We really appreciate your support and hope to have you join us on another adventure in the future!
Show more
Henry4.0•May 2018
The itenerary was not always followed. The most egregious problem was staying 250 km (3 hrs.) on an extremely rough...
The itenerary was not always followed. The most egregious problem was staying 250 km (3 hrs.) on an extremely rough road from the gate of sossusvlei (dunes). It also made the day before about 150 km longer and the day after 100km longer. Neither accommodation listed on the itinerary was used. We also didn't get a half day in the delta that was on the itinerary. I will send a more detailed evaluation to trip advisor when we finish our trip.Show more
Traveled in April 2018
Reply from: Encounters Travel
Thank you for sharing your feedback. We’re sorry to hear about the issues you encountered with the itinerary and accommodations. We understand how disappointing it can be when the planned schedule isn’t followed, especially with the long travel times and missed experiences like the half-day in the Delta. We take your concerns seriously and will review the changes with our team to ensure better communication and adherence to the itinerary in the future.
Show more

Dates & Availability

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What our customers ask about this tour

The content in our FAQ section is subject to change.

All questions

We couldn't find results

Try a different search term or ask a question to this adventure's experts

T
Timothy
Asked on February 6th, 2026
I am interested in your tour for this September. I would like to know about the accommodation, ie how many days I would stay at camp site vs lodge. Do I need to erect my own tent each time? Do I need to bring own sleeping bag and blanket?
Accommodation
- Encounters TravelOperator•Written February 2026
  To answer your question on camping versus lodge we give you the choice of two options for the accommodation on this Overland tour, both available on the trip. Each option stays in the same place each night, just using a different level of accommodation.
  
  Camping: As the name suggests, the majority of your time will be spent camping. We include easily erected tents and camping mattresses; all you need to bring is a sleeping bag & towel (and pillow if you need one). Some nights spent in towns and cities may be spent in hotel or lodge rooms instead of camping - please see the itinerary for details. During hotel stays, all couples will be given a private double room. Friends booking together will also share a room.
  
  Accommodated: This level is designed to bridge the gap between a basic camping tour and an expensive lodge holiday. So, we use good quality hotels, lodges and camps rated at the local 2 to 4-star level, with the majority of rooms en-suite. In some places more basic properties with separate bathrooms, or permanent safari tents may be used. We aim always to use accommodation that is in keeping with the local area so there is a good variety. Local star ratings may vary slightly from international standards. Accommodation is based on twin or double rooms, chalets, bungalows or safari tents. All couples will be given a private double room. Friends booking together will also share a room.
T
Tamara
Asked on November 2nd, 2025
I am booking a family trip for 4 and I'm interested in the Grand Southern Safari tour. I see that it is a medium intensity tour. My parents are older and prefer an easier more laid back trip while my sister and I are fine with more intense activities. Would it be okay for my parents to skip some of the more demanding activities, or is it more of a fast paced trip? Would you recommend us to book an easier more relaxing trip?
Age Range
Tour Details
- Encounters TravelOperator•Written November 2025
  To answer your question about the suitability of this trip. I think it could be the perfect balance for your family if you went for the accommodated rather than the camping option. It is easy going and any hikes or longer walks for example can easily be skipped.
T
Trevor
Asked on September 29th, 2025
How much would a solo supplement be. ALSO, how much would the supplement be for staying in hotels, lodges, etc.?
Accommodation
Single supplement
- Encounters TravelOperator•Written September 2025
  Camping - US$3765.00 per person with an optional single supplement of US$295.00. Accommodated - US$5715.00 per person with a mandatory single supplement of US$705.00.
I
Irene
Asked on September 22nd, 2025
Would you be able to pair me up with another single traveler?
Group size
Single supplement
- Encounters TravelOperator•Written September 2025
  This trip operates based on 4 to 24 people. On the 13th December 2025 date we don't currently have anyone booked, therefore the trip will likely not be running. We can help with the date from the 20th of Dec 2025 to the 8th of Jan 2026: Accommodated - US$ 5190 plus mandatory single supplement of US$605, Camping - US$3495 and an optional single supplement of US$255. Would this date be of interest to you?
L
Leah
Asked on August 12th, 2025
Your tour map shows you going to Zambia at the end, but there is not mention of it in the itinerary. Can you please explain this?
Tour Details
- Encounters TravelOperator•Written August 2025
  We will see how we can edit the map pins so it shows that the trip ends in Victoria Falls on the Zimbabwe side, not the Zambia side.
J
Joanna
Asked on February 2nd, 2025
What are the booking payment options?
Payments
- Encounters TravelOperator•Written February 2025
  Booking payments can typically be made via major credit cards, bank transfers, or other designated platforms as specified by the tour provider.
J
Joyce
Asked on January 6th, 2025
What is the cost for fully accommodated tour?
Price / Availability
- Encounters TravelOperator•Written January 2025
  The accommodated price for the 5th of Jul 2025 to the 24th of Jul 2025 is priced at A$8405.00 per person sharing, 2 per room. Included: 19 night's accommodation in hotels/lodges/guesthouses/camps, All transport on a fully equipped 25-seat expedition vehicle, All 'included highlights' as mentioned in the itinerary, 2 truck crew (driver/guide plus assistant/cook), Local guides for sightseeing tours and activities as per the itinerary, Meals as indicated in the itinerary.
M
Mélanie
Asked on January 3rd, 2025
What is included and excluded in the tour price?
Price / Availability
- Encounters TravelOperator•Written January 2025
  The tour price typically includes all accommodations, transport, and most meals as per the itinerary, already planned out. Flights, visa fees, and personal expenses are excluded.
D
Diego
Asked on December 4th, 2024
What are the transportation options during the tour?
Transport
- Encounters TravelOperator•Written December 2024
  The transport options throughout the tour include a fully equipped expedition vehicle, applicable to all activities as mentioned in the itinerary.
B
Birgit
Asked on November 6th, 2024
How can I upgrade accommodations during the tour?
Accommodation
- Encounters TravelOperator•Written November 2024
  You can upgrade your accommodations on certain nights subject to room availability at that location when you arrive.

From

US $3,765 per person

Price based on Cheapest Room

Price based on Shared Room

Price based on Private Single Room

Price based on Private Double Room

Booking needs min. 2 travelers

Select Date

1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Best price guarantee Learn More

Plan your adventure:

Good to Know

Tour ID: 45617

Currencies
P
Pula
Botswana
$
Namibia Dollar
Namibia
R
Rand
South Africa
$
US Dollar
Plugs & Adapters
As a traveler from USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand you will need an adaptor for types D, M, G. As a traveler from England you will need an adaptor for types D, M. As a traveler from South Africa you will need an adaptor for type G.
Type D
Botswana
Type M
Botswana
Type G
Zimbabwe
Vaccines
- These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
- Typhoid - Recommended for Botswana.Namibia.South Africa.Zimbabwe. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
- Hepatitis A - Recommended for Botswana.Namibia.South Africa.Zimbabwe. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
- Tuberculosis - Recommended for Botswana.Namibia.South Africa.Zimbabwe. Ideally 3 months before travel.
- Hepatitis B - Recommended for Botswana.Namibia.South Africa.Zimbabwe. Ideally 2 months before travel.
- Rabies - Recommended for Botswana.Namibia.Zimbabwe. Ideally 1 month before travel.
- Yellow fever - Certificate of vaccination required if arriving from an area with a risk of yellow fever transmission for Botswana.Namibia.South Africa.Zimbabwe. Ideally 10 days before travel.
- Cholera - Recommended for Namibia.South Africa.Zimbabwe. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
Visa
- Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
- Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
Payment information
- For any tour departing before October 9th, 2026 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after October 9th, 2026, a minimum payment of $250 is required to confirm your booking with Encounters Travel. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 65 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
- Some departure dates and prices may vary and Encounters Travel will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
- The following cards are accepted for "Encounters Travel" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
Cancellation Policy
- Your money is safe with TourRadar, as we only pay the tour operator after your tour has departed.
- TourRadar is an authorized Agent of Encounters Travel. Please familiarize yourself with the Encounters Travel payment, cancellation and refund conditions.
Accessibility
Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveler, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team, who are ready and waiting to help you.
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The Grand Southern Safari

Itinerary

Included Activities

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Included Activities

Included Activities

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Included Activities

Included Activities

Included Activities

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Optional Activities

Included Activities

Included Activities

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Optional Activities

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What's Included

What's Not Included

Traveler Reviews

Dates & Availability

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What our customers ask about this tour

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