South Africa, Zimbabwe and Botswana Tours & Trips

What our customers ask about South Africa, Zimbabwe and Botswana Tours & Trips

• What are the must-see highlights in these three countries?

  Each country offers distinct natural wonders and wildlife experiences. South Africa's Table Mountain rises above Cape Town while the Cape Winelands stretch through rolling valleys. The thundering Victoria Falls creates a natural border between Zimbabwe and Zambia with its 108-meter drop. Botswana's Chobe National Park stands out for its large elephant populations while the Okavango Delta provides water-based safaris in traditional mokoro canoes. Kruger National Park remains a cornerstone for viewing Africa's most iconic animals. As one TourRadar reviewer shared: "The variety was incredible - from the cosmopolitan Cape Town to raw wilderness in Chobe where we saw countless elephants to the magnificent Victoria Falls."

• What type of accommodation can I expect on tours through these countries?

  Tour accommodations range from basic camping to upscale lodges. Many visitors spend nights at properties like the Timbavati Safari Lodge near Kruger Park before moving to canvas tents in the Okavango Delta's remote areas. The Victoria Falls Waterfront lodge serves as a common base with rooms facing the Zambezi River. A TourRadar traveler notes: "The accommodations were far beyond my expectations - from comfortable lodges to magical bush camping in the Delta where you could hear hippos talking to one another at night."

• What cultural experiences are available in these countries?

  Local traditions and history run deep across these nations. Johannesburg's Apartheid Museum documents South Africa's path to democracy while Soweto township tours connect visitors with local communities. Near Kruger Park Shangaan performers share traditional dances. Zimbabwe's Matobo National Park contains preserved bushman art and Botswana offers chances to learn from San Bushmen communities. According to one TourRadar traveler: "The mokoro polers in the Okavango Delta shared their culture through songs and dances making for an unforgettable evening around the campfire."

• How much spending money should I budget for additional expenses?

  A 15-day tour typically requires USD 545-710 per person beyond the tour cost. This covers non-included meals and popular activities such as Victoria Falls helicopter rides (USD 150 for 15 minutes) Chobe River cruises (USD 50) and full-day Kruger safaris (USD 60). Local beers cost USD 2-3 and mid-range restaurant meals run USD 15-20. While major tourist areas accept credit cards cash remains essential for local markets and smaller towns.

• What are the best times to visit South Africa, Zimbabwe and Botswana?

  Weather patterns and wildlife movements determine the ideal visiting times. Kruger National Park's dry winter (May-September) brings clear skies and 25°C temperatures perfect for animal spotting. The Okavango Delta's flood season (June-August) creates waterways for boat safaris. Victoria Falls reaches peak flow February through May though heavy mist can limit views. Many travelers find April-May and September-October offer balanced conditions with moderate weather and consistent wildlife sightings across all regions.

• What wildlife can I expect to see in these countries?

  The region's diverse ecosystems support remarkable animal populations. Kruger National Park hosts all members of the "Big Five" (lion leopard elephant rhino buffalo). Chobe National Park's elephant numbers exceed 70000 making it Africa's largest concentration. Matobo National Park in Zimbabwe claims the world's highest density of leopards and black eagles. One TourRadar traveler reports: "We saw the 'Big 5' in the first week! Including TWO leopards. Even the guides were shocked."