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Scenic landscape with red dunes and green grass on a Namibia and Botswana guided self-drive safari.
Small Group Guided Self-drive Safari

Windhoek to Chobe – Scenic Wonders

16 Days from 6,950 USD person sharing a double room

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Windhoek to Chobe - Scenic Wonders – 16-day Small Group Guided Self-drive Safari

Countless incredible moments await you on this 16-day guided self-drive safari through Namibia and Botswana.

You explore mesmerizing red dunes of Kgalagadi National Park and the expansive game-rich plains of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve.

We’ll then immerse ourselves in the abundant wildlife of the Moremi and Khwai regions, traverse the arid beauty of Savuti, and conclude our adventure in the majestic Chobe.

Lodge accommodation

Roof top tents | facility campsites & wild camping

Accommodation style

Starting price per person

Travellers

Min 4 – max 6 vehicles

Travellers

Departure dates calendar

25 September 2026

Departure dates

Highlights

Day 1-2 Namibia | Day 3-4 South Africa | Day 5-16 Botswana

Not more than 12 travellers

Small Group Guided Self-Drive Safari

Not more than 12 travellers

Self-drive game drives in the Kalahari

Kgalagadi Transfontier Park

Self-drive game drives in the Kalahari

Self-drive game drive the harsh, sprawling terrain dominated by grasslands.

Central Kalahari Game Reserve
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Self-drive game drive the harsh, sprawling terrain dominated by grasslands.

Self-drive game drives | high numbers of predators and big cats | African Wild Dog

Moremi & Khwai Region
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Self-drive game drives | high numbers of predators and big cats | African Wild Dog

Self-drive game drives in the remote section of the Chobe National Park

Savuti Region

Self-drive game drives in the remote section of the Chobe National Park

Game drive in the Chobe National Park and boat cruise on the Chobe River

Chobe National Park
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Game drive in the Chobe National Park and boat cruise on the Chobe River

Who Should Go

This route is designed for seasoned adventurers, 4×4 enthusiasts, and wildlife lovers with a passion for untamed places.

If you crave raw nature, don’t mind rough roads and remote camps, and want to experience Botswana in its purest form – this guided self-drive safari in Namibia and Botswana is for you.

It’s perfect for those seeking a deeper connection to the wild, far from the crowds and close to the heartbeat of Africa.

Botswana off-road experience on Kgalagadi safari tours

Offroad Enthusiasts

Botswana newbies

Botswana Newbies

Nature Lovers

Nature Lovers

Adventurers

Expedition Trailblazers

Dirk Reiche
This guided self-drive safari in Namibia and Botswana combines stunning scenery and the chance to see the Big Five in some of southern Africa’s best wildlife destinations. We drive across varied terrain from remote desert landscapes to wildlife-dense national parks. Don’t forget your camera to capture it all!
Dirk | Botswana Travel Expert

Accommodation

1 guesthouse, 9 campsites and 2 wild camping over 16 days/15 nights
The outdoor area at the Elegant Guesthouse in Windhoek
Day 1
The Elegant Guesthouse Windhoek
1 night Bed & Breakfast
Day 1
A rental 4x4 car with a roof top tent on a campsite.
Day 2-16
Sleeping in roof-top-tents
On top of your 4x4 vehicle
Day 2-16
A group of self-drive travellers sitting around a campfire at night.
Day 2-16
Authentic experience
A million star experience
Day 2-16
A campsite on a guided self-drive tour in Botswana.
Day 2-16
Campsites
Facility campsites & wild camping
Day 2-16
Sunrise seen from inside a bush shower cubicle.
Day 2-16
Bush Bathroom
Either bucket shower or shared ablutions
Day 2-16

Tour Itinerary

Small group guided self-drive safari | minimum 4 vehicles, maximum 6 vehicles | 8 – 12 people

Set out on a journey of discovery through Botswana’s best-known wildlife areas, accompanied by an expert guide.

This 16-day guided self-drive safari in Namibia and Botswana is defined by the mesmerizing red dunes of Kgalagadi National Park, the expansive, game-rich plains of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, and the abundant wildlife of the Moremi & Khwai regions.

Travel deep into the Kalahari region and learn about this area renowned for its high number of predators, then continue through the arid beauty of Savuti before ending at Chobe National Park on the banks of the majestic Chobe River.

Throughout this adventure, you’ll overnight at campsites together with a few nights of wild camping under African stars.

Please note that on this guided self-drive safari in Namibia and Botswana, most days will be long and a good knowledge of deep sand driving is beneficial. This adventure takes you through challenging Kalahari terrain where proper sand driving techniques and stamina for extended travel days are essential for fully experiencing these diverse wilderness regions.

Itinerary map for the guided self-drive tour in Namibia and Botswana, from Windhoek to Chobe.

Start Windhoek

Ends Kasane

The garden area at the Elegant Guesthouse in WIndhoek, the starting point for this guided self-drive safari in Namibia and Botswana.

Day 1 | Windhoek

Distance approx. 50 km; driving time approx. 1 hour

Windhoek

Distance approx. 50 km; driving time approx. 1 hour

Upon arriving at the airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your guide and crew, setting a delightful tone for your adventure in Namibia.

Together, you’ll journey to your accommodation in the charming city of Windhoek, where the vibrant culture and friendly atmosphere will greet you.

As evening falls, you dine at the renowned Joe’s Beerhouse (own expense). Here, you can savour delicious local cuisine while your tour guide paints a vivid picture of the thrilling adventures that await.

This is just the beginning of an unforgettable journey filled with the stunning landscapes and rich experiences that make Namibia so extraordinary.

You will stay at the Elegant Guesthouse for the night.

Short grasslands and the horizon in the Kalahari at evening light.

Day 2 | Windhoek – Kalahari

Distance approx. 550 km; driving time approx. 6 – 8 hours

Windhoek – Kalahari

Distance approx. 550 km; driving time approx. 6 – 8 hours

After a hearty breakfast, we’ll rise early, filled with anticipation as we set off south towards the Kgalagadi – the first stop on our guided self-drive safari in Namibia and Botswana.

Leaving the well-trodden roads behind, we’ll embark on an adventure through the backroads of southern Namibia, where the landscapes are raw and wild. Our first stop will be the Kalahari Game Lodge, nestled close to the border with South Africa and the breathtaking Trans Kgalagadi Frontier Park.

Here, the golden sands of the Kalahari stretch endlessly, and the promise of incredible wildlife encounters fills the air. Get ready to immerse yourself in the magic of this unique desert environment.

Overnight Campsite in roof-top tents and shared facilities.

Breakfast Lunch Dinner
A zebra stands in tall golden grass in the Kalahari.

Day 3-4 | Kalahari, Namibia– Trans Kgalagadi Frontier Park, South Africa

Distance day 3: approx. 150 km; driving time approx. 2 – 3 hours | Distance day 4: approx. 170 km; driving time approx. 6 – 8 hours

Kalahari, Namibia– Trans Kgalagadi Frontier Park, South Africa

Distance day 3: approx. 150 km; driving time approx. 2 – 3 hours | Distance day 4: approx. 170 km; driving time approx. 6 – 8 hours

This morning, after a delicious breakfast, we’ll cross the border into the stunning Trans-Kgalagadi Frontier Park, where we’ll spend the next two nights immersed in the wild beauty of the Kalahari.

As we traverse the arid landscapes, we’ll journey through the dry riverbeds of the Auob and Nossob rivers, each turn revealing the rugged charm of this extraordinary region.

Our quest will be to seek out the incredible array of animal and bird species that call this unique environment home, from majestic predators to vibrant avian life. Every moment in this untouched wilderness will be an invitation to connect with nature and witness the remarkable resilience of life in the Kalahari.

Overnight Campsite in roof-top tents and shared facilities.

Breakfast Lunch Dinner
A cheetah looking to the side.

Day 5-6 | Trans Kgalagadi Frontier Park, South Africa - Trans Kgalagadi Frontier Park, Botswana

Distance approx. 110 km; driving time approx. 4 – 5 hours

Trans Kgalagadi Frontier Park, South Africa - Trans Kgalagadi Frontier Park, Botswana

Distance approx. 110 km; driving time approx. 4 – 5 hours

After checking in at Twee Rivieren and crossing into Botswana, we’ll set off into the wild heart of Gemsbok National Park, part of the breathtaking Transfrontier Park.

This adventure promises to be nothing short of extraordinary! As we journey across expansive dunes and vast pans, we’ll venture deeper into the enchanting Mabuasehube region.

This area is celebrated for its rich wildlife, and we’ll be on the lookout for the elusive Kalahari black-maned lions, graceful cheetahs, elusive leopards, and the intriguing brown hyenas. Keep your eyes peeled for bat-eared foxes, lynxes, and silver foxes as we explore this remarkable landscape.

Every moment spent here will be a thrilling connection to nature, where the beauty and majesty of the Kalahari come alive.

Overnight Wild Camping with bucket shower and bush toilet.

Breakfast Lunch Dinner
The moon rises in a purple and pink sky in the Kalahari.

Day 7 | Trans Kgalagadi Frontier Park – Kang

Distance approx. 250 km; driving time approx. 5 – 6 hours

Trans Kgalagadi Frontier Park – Kang

Distance approx. 250 km; driving time approx. 5 – 6 hours

After a refreshing night’s rest and a hearty breakfast, we’ll set off on an exciting journey along the back roads of southern Botswana, making our way towards the Central Kalahari Game Reserve.

Our first stop will be in Kang, where we’ll stock up on fuel and supplies, ensuring we’re well-prepared for the adventures ahead. Once we’ve gathered everything we need, we’ll unwind at camp, soaking in the serene atmosphere of this beautiful landscape.

The afternoon will be a perfect opportunity to relax, letting the rhythms of the Kalahari wash over us as we anticipate the incredible experiences that await us in this breathtaking wilderness.

Overnight Campsite in roof-top tents and shared facilities.

Breakfast Lunch Dinner
A leopard crossing the road in front of a 4x4 rental car.

Day 8-9 | Kang – Central Kalari Game Reserve

Distance day 8: approx. 220 km; driving time approx. 4 – 6 hours | Distance day 9: approx. 180 km; driving time approx. 6 – 8 hours

Kang – Central Kalari Game Reserve

Distance day 8: approx. 220 km; driving time approx. 4 – 6 hours | Distance day 9: approx. 180 km; driving time approx. 6 – 8 hours

Today, we’ll embark on an incredible journey into the heart of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, where we’ll spend the next two nights exploring the captivating northern section of this wild sanctuary.

Our adventure will take us through the breathtaking landscapes of Xade and Deception Valley, each moment brimming with excitement and discovery. The reserve’s expansive and rugged terrain unfolds before us, revealing vast grasslands teeming with life.

Here, we’ll be on the lookout for an array of magnificent wildlife, including graceful giraffes, stealthy cheetahs, cunning hyenas, and the majestic lions that roam this untamed paradise.

As we delve deeper into the beauty of the CKGR, every encounter will connect us to the raw spirit of the Kalahari, making this an unforgettable experience in one of Africa’s most remarkable ecosystems.

Overnight Campsite in roof-top tents and shared facilities.

Breakfast Lunch Dinner
The sun sets behind a tall tree, the sky is bright orange.

Day 10 | Central Kalari Game Reserve – Maun

Distance approx. 290 km; driving time approx. 4 – 6 hours

Central Kalari Game Reserve – Maun

Distance approx. 290 km; driving time approx. 4 – 6 hours

After bidding farewell to the mesmerizing landscapes of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, we’ll journey north on our guided self-drive safari in Namibia and Botswana towards Rakops, where we’ll pause to refuel our vehicles and recharge our spirits.

From Rakops, we’ll continue our adventure towards Maun, a vibrant gateway town that beckons travellers heading into the breathtaking Okavango Delta. Upon our arrival in Maun, you’ll have the afternoon free to explore this lively hub, filled with the warmth of local culture and hospitality.

Take this opportunity to indulge in a delicious meal at one of the local restaurants (own expense), savouring the rich flavours of Botswana’s cuisine. As you relax and soak in the atmosphere, you’ll feel the excitement building for the incredible adventures that lie ahead in this stunning country.

Overnight Campsite in roof-top tents and shared facilities.

Breakfast Lunch
A bird drinking from a body of water in the Khwai Region.

Day 11-12 | Maun – Khwai

Distance day 11: approx. 150 km; driving time approx. 4 – 6 hours

Maun – Khwai

Distance day 11: approx. 150 km; driving time approx. 4 – 6 hours

Leaving Maun behind, we’ll head east towards the enchanting Moremi Game Reserve and the captivating Khwai Community concession.

As we approach this beautifully preserved area, we’ll find ourselves in a wildlife-rich ecosystem, where a patchwork of lagoons, shallow flooded pans, open grass plains, and lush woodland forests create a stunning backdrop for our adventure.

Over the next two days, we’ll immerse ourselves in this remarkable region, renowned for its diverse array of wildlife and vibrant birdlife.

Our camp, nestled along the banks of the serene Mbudi Channel and shaded by majestic Mopane trees, offers the perfect sanctuary to connect with nature.

For those seeking a deeper experience, there’s an opportunity to join a mokoro excursion on the Mbudi Channel (at your own expense). Gliding through the tranquil waters, you’ll feel the magic of the Khwai region envelop you, creating unforgettable memories in this breathtaking corner of Botswana.

Overnight Wild camping with bucket shower and bush toilet.

Breakfast Lunch Dinner
A giraffe eating from the tree canopy.

Day 13-14 | Khwai - Savuti

Distance approx. 130 km; driving time approx. 4 – 6 hours

Khwai - Savuti

Distance approx. 130 km; driving time approx. 4 – 6 hours

Leaving the lush embrace of the Khwai River, we’ll journey into the remote Savuti region of Chobe National Park, a hidden gem celebrated for its exhilarating big game viewing.

This arid landscape, with its rugged beauty and vast horizons, is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.

For the next two nights, we’ll immerse ourselves in the heart of Savuti, where the thrill of spotting the elusive predators that roam this untamed territory awaits. From majestic lions to stealthy leopards, each moment spent here is a chance to witness nature’s raw drama unfold.

As we traverse this stunning wilderness, the sense of adventure will pulse through us, making every sunrise and sunset a breathtaking spectacle.

Overnight Campsite in roof-top tents and shared facilities.

Breakfast Lunch Dinner
A young elephant standing in the Chobe River, a highlight on this guided self-drive safari in Namibia and Botswana.

Day 15 | Savuti – Kasane

Distance approx. 170 km; driving time approx. 3 – 4 hours

Savuti – Kasane

Distance approx. 170 km; driving time approx. 3 – 4 hours

As we traverse the sandy ridges and past the expansive floodplains of the Chobe, we’ll make our way to the vibrant town of Kasane.

The anticipation builds for the afternoon’s adventure – a boat cruise on the majestic Chobe River, where the magic of nature unfolds before our eyes.

As we drift along the water’s edge, keep an eye out for the magnificent elephants making their way to the river for a refreshing drink or a playful swim. Known as the “Land of Giants” this remarkable region can host over 50,000 elephants during the dry season, creating an unforgettable spectacle of wildlife.

As the sun begins to set, painting the sky in hues of orange and gold, we’ll soak in the tranquil beauty of the river. After this enchanting experience, we’ll return to Kasane for our final dinner (at your own expense) at one of the local restaurants, where we can reflect on the incredible adventures we’ve shared.

Overnight Campsite in roof-top tents and shared facilities.

Breakfast Lunch
Two hippos out of water grazing on the banks of the Chobe River.

Day 16 | Kasane

Distance approx. 10 km; driving time approx. 10 min

Kasane

Distance approx. 10 km; driving time approx. 10 min

Today marks the last day of our guided self-drive safari in Namibia and Botswana.

After an early morning game drive in open safari vehicles through the breathtaking Chobe National Park, we’ll return to camp for a well-deserved brunch. The thrill of the morning’s wildlife encounters will linger in the air as we savour our meal together.

Then, it’s time to pack up one last time, holding onto the memories of this incredible journey. As we prepare for your transfer to Kasane International Airport, take a moment to reflect on the stunning landscapes and remarkable wildlife you’ve experienced in Botswana.

With hearts full of adventure and unforgettable moments, we’ll say our farewells as you embark on your connecting flight home, carrying the spirit of Botswana with you.

Safe travels until we meet again!

Breakfast

Included

  • 12 nights in campsites with shared facilities, 2 nights wild camping and 1 night in a guesthouse (depending on availability, accommodation of a similar standard will be booked)
  • meals according to the itinerary
  • 4x4 equipped vehicle with rooftop tent
  • fuel
  • professional guide and crew
  • all park fees

Excluded

  • flights (international and domestic)
  • vehicle deposit (refundable)
  • possible tolls and cross-border fees
  • meals not indicated in the itinerary
  • alcoholic and soft drinks not specified above
  • optional activities
  • tips
  • personal expenses, visa fees, travel insurance

Upcoming Departures

If you prefer different dates or have any questions, please get in touch - we are happy to help!
Season per person sharing per person single room
25.09.2026-
09.10.2026
6,950 USD 8,600 USD

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