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FROM US$9,240-US$13,070

Leopard Safari

Victoria Falls, Botswana and Cape Town – a classic southern African itinerary combining luxury, wilderness, safari and culture. We can't think of a better way to spend two weeks.

Leopard Safari: Day-by-day

More detailed information of what each day entails, and the various places you’ll stay on the Leopard Safari. Everything we do is completely tailor-made so while this is an idea which works well, we’ll always design an itinerary just for you.


Day 1

Starts: Victoria Falls Airport

Day 1

Victoria Falls to Old Drift by road & boat

On arrival at Victoria Falls Airport, you'll be met by a driver for the 35-minute trip to the Old Drift jetty. Here, you'll hop aboard a speedboat on the Zambezi River, headed for the lodge, an exciting transfer of 10–15 minutes, depending on wildlife you spot on the way.

Old Drift Lodge
Days 1-4

Old Drift Lodge

3 nights
Full Board & ActivitiesVictoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Combine the splendour of the Victoria Falls with a stylish safari experience in a historic setting. Set at the narrowest point of the Zambezi, downstream of Victoria Falls, Old Drift evokes the early days of exploration.

Old Drift Lodge

Combine the splendour of the Victoria Falls with a stylish safari experience in a historic setting. Set at the narrowest point of the Zambezi, downstream of Victoria Falls, Old Drift evokes the early days of exploration.

Before the coming of the railway, this section of the river – then known as Clarke's Drift – was the best place to cross. But other than claw-foot baths (and even they're on the decks), today's lodge has few connections with the Victorian era.

The tented chalets are “tents” in name only, their cool high ceilings aided by air conditioning, their large glass sliding doors opening to reveal sunloungers alongside a private plunge pool.

At the hub of camp, a series of split-level decks make enviable spots to while away the afternoon, entertained by the bee-eaters and kingfishers that add colour to the riverine backdrop. Or warm up by the fireplace indoors, drink in hand, and keep watch for the wildlife of Zambezi National Park from the comfort of a cosy sofa.

The camp's motorboat shuttles regularly between here and the Falls, so you can lunch at the aptly named Lookout Café in town, explore the sights, then return in time for a delicious dinner overlooking the Zambezi.

"Great spot on the Zambezi River."

Mr & Mrs ZfromSaratoga

Arrived 23 Sep 2022, 2 nights

The staff are friendly, the food good, the activities many and varied. It's a winning combination. See our full report on Old Drift Lodge

91%
9 reviews of Old Drift Lodge by travellers since August 2007

Activities

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Boat trip

Canoeing

Cultural excursion

Elephant encounter

Guided walking safari

Helicopter

Kayaking

Microlight

White-water rafting

Day 4

Old Drift to Savute by road & light aircraft

Today's 2½–3½-hour journey starts with a drive to the Kazungula border post where, having cleared the formalities, you'll be transferred to Kasane Airport in Botswana for a light-aircraft flight to Savute. During the final 4WD game drive across classic Kalahari terrain to Savute Under Canvas, look out for animals.

Savute Under Canvas
Days 4-7

Savute Under Canvas

3 nights
Full Board & ActivitiesChobe National Park, Botswana

A high-quality “glamping” experience which moves locations around the Savuti area, but always offers creature comforts and big-game 4WD safaris. For the ultimate in glamping, look no further than Savute Under Canvas. At first glance, it’s the simplest of bushcamps.

Savute Under Canvas

A high-quality “glamping” experience which moves locations around the Savuti area, but always offers creature comforts and big-game 4WD safaris. For the ultimate in glamping, look no further than Savute Under Canvas. At first glance, it’s the simplest of bushcamps.

Its five tents move every few days within the Savute area of Chobe National Park so that it leaves the lightest impression on the fragile environment. But appearances can be deceptive, even in a totally natural setting. Each of those tents is en suite – complete with flushing toilets and wonderfully hot showers on request.

The beds are genuinely comfortable, the food fresh, good and plentiful (do take a look “backstage”: it’s astonishing what the cooks achieve in such rudimentary conditions), and the service exemplary; how about a cooling footbath to counter the afternoon heat?

"Amazing facilities for a mobile camp"

J & JfromYork

Arrived 6 Sep 2022, 2 nights

As often as not, you’ll dine under the stars around the campfire, but a simple mess tent does service as a bar, dining room and general chat area, where tales of the day’s adventures can be shared with personable and knowledgeable guides. And at Savute Under Canvas, you should have plenty of tales – from the heart-stopping moments when animals roam into camp to the broad open spaces of the Savuti Marshes, where lion and wild dog seek out the pans – and their prey. See our full report on Savute Under Canvas

96%
23 reviews of Savute Under Canvas by travellers since August 2007

Activities

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Helicopter

Day 7

Savute to Gomoti Plains by 4WD & light aircraft

Leaving Savute mid-morning, you'll board your light aircraft for a spectacular flight south-west over the Delta, landing at Qorokwe Airstrip after around 35 minutes. A guide will be waiting to take you to Gomoti Plains, a half-hour 4WD game drive, keeping an eye out for wildlife throughout the journey.

Gomoti Plains Camp
Days 7-10

Gomoti Plains Camp

3 nights
Full Board & ActivitiesOkavango Delta Safari Reserves, Botswana

Riverine forest, open floodplains and the river itself: it’s a winning combination for wildlife at Gomoti Plains Camp. And the best of it is that for guests here, exploring the surrounding area – whether on a 4WD game drive, on the water or even on foot – is exclusive to them.

Gomoti Plains Camp

Riverine forest, open floodplains and the river itself: it’s a winning combination for wildlife at Gomoti Plains Camp. And the best of it is that for guests here, exploring the surrounding area – whether on a 4WD game drive, on the water or even on foot – is exclusive to them.

Overlooking a tributary of the Gomoti River, the camp lies in a private, community-run reserve in the south-east of the iconic Okavango Delta. Shaded by tall, elegant palms and mature leadwoods, it’s in a beautiful spot, its 10 safari tents reached along sandy paths that meander through the vegetation.

While paraffin-style lanterns set a classic safari tone at dusk, the interior of each tent has a far more contemporary feel: smart, light and bright, with wooden floors and anglepoise lamps. Chairs and a daybed on the wooden deck mean you can watch for wildlife in comfort – and privacy. Outdoor (as well as indoor) showers add a hint of adventure; in-room spa treatments a touch of indulgence.

"We loved Gomoti Plains - such a nice camp..staff..so friendly..food..amazing -"

MR & Mrs CfromW Sussex

Arrived 9 Sep 2023, 3 nights

The light hand behind the décor runs through the main area, where high stools at the bar contrast with large sofas and armchairs in the lounge. A pool deck set with sunloungers, chairs around a convivial firepit, and the potential for communal dining encourage a truly inclusive atmosphere; what better way to mull over the day? See our full report on Gomoti Plains Camp

93%
38 reviews of Gomoti Plains Camp by travellers since August 2007

Activities

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Boat trip

Fishing

Guided walking safari

Helicopter

Mokoro

Night drive

Day 10

Okavango to Cape Town by road & air

Watch out for wildlife on your final game drive to the airstrip, before the all-too-short light-aircraft trip to Maun. From here, it's a 2½-hour flight to Cape Town, then a drive into the city of 20–45 minutes, depending on traffic; look out for Table Mountain on the way.

About image
Day 10

Pick-up car: Cape Town International Airport

17:00
Cape Town International AirportSouth Africa

Your hire car will be ready and waiting for your to collect from the hire desk at the terminal in your arrival into Cape Town International Airport.

Cape Grace
Days 10-14

Cape Grace

4 nights
Bed & BreakfastCape Town, South Africa

The Cape Grace is set right in the heart of Cape Town's Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, on its very own quay. It's an ideal location if you want to be very close to the shops, restaurants and nightlife to be found in this area.

Cape Grace

The Cape Grace is set right in the heart of Cape Town's Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, on its very own quay. It's an ideal location if you want to be very close to the shops, restaurants and nightlife to be found in this area.

"very comfortable.. staff all very helpful.. location great for the Waterfront.."

Mr AfromSt Albans

Arrived 7 Nov 2021, 2 nights

See our full report on Cape Grace

98%
12 reviews of Cape Grace by travellers since August 2007

Activities

Birdwatching

Boat trip

Canoeing

Cultural excursion

Dune-boarding

Fishing

Helicopter

Horse-riding

Hot air ballooning

Kayaking

Microlight

Mountain biking

Quad-biking

Scuba-diving

Self-guided walking

Snorkelling

Watersports

About image
Day 14

Drop-off car: Cape Town International Airport

16:00
Cape Town International AirportSouth Africa

After a few days exploring Cape Town and its surrounds you'll drop your vehicle back at the airport where you collected it in time for your onward arrangements.

Day 14

Ends: Cape Town International Airport

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Experiences you can add to this trip.

Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst staying at lodges on this trip. These are usually best arranged in advance so talk to us.


Rhino Walk

Rhino Walk

Around four hours - mornings only

Spend an unforgettable morning on a walking safari tracking Mosi-oa-Tunya’s small population of white rhino, with a strong chance of being able to approach these endangered creatures on foot.

More about Rhino Walk
93% (3 reviews)
Chobe Day Trip

Chobe Day Trip

Full day - typically around 11 hours

For a top safari experience while visiting the Victoria Falls, don’t miss a day trip to Botswana’s Chobe National Park. Easily reachable from Livingstone, Zambia or Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, Chobe boasts some of the best wildlife densities in southern Africa, with exceptional numbers of elephant drawn by the permanent waters of the Chobe River.

More about Chobe Day Trip
Helicopter Flight - Zimbabwe

Helicopter Flight - Zimbabwe

Shortest flight is 12-25 minutes

While viewing the Victoria Falls from the ground is a stunning experience, seen the world’s largest waterfall from the air allows for a completely different perspective, historically said to have been so beautiful as to have been seen by ‘angels in flight’.

More about Helicopter Flight
95% (8 reviews)
Ra-Ikane River Cruise

Ra-Ikane River Cruise

Two hours minimum

Cruising the upper sections of the Zambezi reveals another dimension to the river's beauty, adding a sense of serenity to the thrill of watching it cascade over the Victoria Falls. On a Ra-Ikane river cruise, experience the river’s islands and channels, keeping an eye out for wildlife, and the spray from the Falls.

More about Ra-Ikane River Cruise
95% (35 reviews)
Elephant Encounter

Elephant Encounter

Three hours

For a very personal encounter with elephants, head to The Elephant Camp near Victoria Falls. From its sanctuary for orphaned elephants, it offers close interaction with one of Africa's most iconic species, including the chance to feed the elephants by hand, and talk to the guides who have raised and trained them.

More about Elephant Encounter
92% (5 reviews)
Elephant Art Experience

Elephant Art Experience

Three hours

The Wild Horizons Elephant Sanctuary and Art of Africa have teamed up to create a unique experience in the bush, with private tutors running painting workshops and habituated elephants provision impressive models, standing just metres away from your easel.

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Zambezi Explorer River Cruise

Zambezi Explorer River Cruise

Two hours

Watching the sunset from the middle of the Zambezi River, with the spray of the falls behind you, is an incredibly popular activity. A large variety of cruises are on offer, ranging from cheap and boozy directed towards the backpacker crowd, to much more luxurious and serene experiences. A great option for the latter style is the Zambezi Explorer.

More about Zambezi Explorer
100% (4 reviews)
Winelands Private Tour

Winelands Private Tour

Full day

Spend a day exploring the beautiful vineyards, mountains and valleys of the Cape Winelands and sample some of the well-known wines they have to offer

More about Winelands Private Tour
100% (2 reviews)
Cape Point and Peninsula Tour

Cape Point and Peninsula Tour

Full day - normally nine hours

Get your camera ready for one of South Africa’s most breathtaking coastal drives in the company of an informative guide. Take in magnificent beaches, stunning scenery, wildlife on land and at sea, and the meeting of two great oceans, then round off your day in the tranquillity of Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.

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91% (7 reviews)
City and Table Mountain Tour

City and Table Mountain Tour

Approximately four hours - AM or PM

From atop the iconic Table Mountain, the panoramic views of Cape Town can be breathtaking – and if the cable car isn’t operating, they’re just as good from nearby Signal Hill. Back at sea level, explore the highlights of this fascinating and pretty city, including the South African Museum, the Castle of Good Hope and the Houses of Parliament.

More about City and Table Mountain
93% (3 reviews)
Microlight Flight

Microlight Flight

15 or 30 minutes

For pure exhilaration, it's hard to find something better than flying in a microlight, swooping through the spray that crashes up and off the Victoria Falls, with rainbows shimmering below. If you don't like heights, then this isn't for you! For those looking for a different way to see the Falls, the microlight flights offer a stunning birds eye view of this spectacular natural wonder.

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100% (1 reviews)
Livingstone Island & Devil's Pool

Livingstone Island & Devil's Pool

Three hours

Victoria Falls is one of the world's natural wonders, and a huge attraction for many visitors to southern Africa. We're often asked if the waterfall is best viewed from the Zambian or Zimbabwean side, but we think the best way to experience the full majesty of the falls is from the middle with a visit to Livingstone Island.

More about Livingstone Island
95% (8 reviews)
Historical Bridge Tour

Historical Bridge Tour

Two hours - AM & PM departures

A feat of engineering the Victoria Falls Bridge was built in 1905 as part of Cecil Rhodes' vision to link the Cape to Cairo. With an expert guide and the appropriate safety equipment you'll not only discover the wonders of this Victorian marvel but also gain a unique perspective of the Victoria Falls themselves.

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Guided tour of Victoria Falls

Guided tour of Victoria Falls

Two hours - AM & PM departures

One of the seven Natural Wonders of the World, the mighty Victoria Falls has to be seen to be believed. Why not take an expertly guided trip to learn about the history, geology, flora and fauna of one of Africa's most spectacular sites?

More about Tour of the Falls
100% (4 reviews)
Cookery Course & Activity

Cookery Course & Activity

Six hours - afternoon activity

Make a traditional Southern African ‘potjie dinner’ on the banks of the Zambezi River. You’ll be guided through the preparation process by professional chefs before embarking on an afternoon activity while your dinner cooks. The activity is followed by a 3-course meal, including your self-made Pot as the main course.

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Bushtracks Express

Bushtracks Express

Generally four and a half hours

The Bushtracks Express Train starts its journey at Zimbabwe’s iconic Victoria Falls Station before departing on its route through Victoria Falls National Park the Victoria Falls Bridge, where guests enjoy the stunning view of the Falls. Afterwards, the train will depart for a siding out of town, for dinner.

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Helicopter Flight - Botswana

Helicopter Flight - Botswana

Various: from 30 minutes to half a day.

Low-flying, agile and offering superb views, helicopters are an ideal way to move around the Okavango Delta.You can use them instead of fixed-wing inter-lodge transfers or as an addition to other wildlife watching activities, and of course, helicopters can hover to allow that perfect pic, whereas fixed-wings can’t.

More about Helicopter Flight

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