Your holiday starts at the group accommodation in Livingstone. Airport transfers are provided. In the early afternoon we meet our fellow travellers and guide for a briefing. The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy the town or relax at the campsite.

Today is yours to spend at leisure around Livingstone and the mighty Victoria Falls. Close to the falls are several handicraft markets which are great for some souvenir shopping. If you are feeling a little more adventurous or wish to see the falls from a different angle, you may wish to consider one of the extra activities that are available to book and payable locally. These include white water rafting, half-day canoeing the Zambezi or maybe a scenic flight. Whatever you chose you'll have a fabulous first full day on this incredible journey through Southern Africa. Depending on season, water levels of the falls will vary (late November to early April is the wet season, with the remainder of the year being dry).

After breakfast, we leave Zambia for the natural wonderland of Namibia. We travel via Kazungula and Ngoma, crossing briefly through Botswana (the most efficient route). Wedged between the borders of Botswana and Angola, the Caprivi Strip provides a significant habitat for the endangered African Wild Dog and is also a vital corridor for elephants moving between Namibia, Botswana, Angola and Zambia. In the late afternoon we take to the water for a boat safari cruise on the Kavango River in this remote and beautiful region. Approximate drive time: 5hrs 30. With border crossings and lunch a travel day of approximately 7hrs 30mins.

Enjoying breakfast with the chorus of African river-life our exploration of Caprivi leads us further into the area. The area sees many rivers and permanent waters, attracting big herds of elephants in the dry season. Lion, leopard and hyena are present, as well as the majestic giraffe munching on tall trees. Hippos, buffalo and zebra can be seen - a true feast of the eyes and binoculars in the early stages of this marvellous safari holiday. Approximate actual drive time: 3hrs. With stops a travel day of approximately 4hrs.

This morning we have time to appreciate the river and we hope to spot many of the resident bird species such as the Lesser Jacana, Racket-Tailor Roller and Coppery Tailed Coucal. Although a rare spot, Pel's fishing owls are also resident in this region. Moving on from the Caprivi Strip, we continue our journey west skirting the border of Angola along the River Kavango and onto our campsite near the Namibian town of Rundu. Luck being with us we can enjoy a spectacular sunset whilst sipping our sundowner. Approximate actual drive time: 3hrs. With stops a travel day of approximately 4hrs.

We set off this morning with our goal of the Etosha National Park. This is Big Game country. Four of the Big 5 are found here: lion, elephant, leopard and a healthy population of black rhino. Just the buffalo are missing. The central feature of the Park is the Etosha Pan, a 6000 square kilometre salt-flat, which can manifest itself either as a parched white desert or as a lush green land of plenty according to the season. Many of the rare animal species manage to survive here, such as the black rhino, the roan antelope and black-faced impala, which we may be fortunate to see on our afternoon game drive into the park. Etosha is, without doubt, Africa's most distinct National Park. Approximate actual drive time: 8hrs. With stops a travel day of approximately 9hrs 30mins

During infrequent flooding, the pan attracts thousands of flamingos and other wading birds, although the water is so mineral-rich that it is undrinkable. The key to life here is the occurrence of underground springs which form waterholes on the edge of the pan. Together with the savannah grassland that they nourish, these springs enable more than 110 species of mammals to exist in an otherwise hostile environment. One of the highlights in dry season will be the chance to view big cats and game such as giraffe, zebra and several antelope species, gathering at one of the many waterholes. The rainy season at Etosha extends from November into March and April. This is a season of plenty, when grazing animals and their predators are widespread across the park as they seek out better grazing. Regardless of the season, your experienced leader, will endeavour to seek out the best of Etosha's wildlife during your game drives. In the evening we return to our campsite for the evening African chorus and a traditional sundowner. Full day game drive.

Today we cross Namibia's desert landscapes getting a real taste of a prehistorical land in the area which has ruggedly beautiful, untamed, stark plains, petrified forests as well as the peaks of the Brandberg Massif. We have a short walk to see the Petrified Forest. The name Brandberg means 'fire mountain' which refers to the glowing red colour of the rocks, seen at sunset. With a dense concentration of San Bush art, dating back several thousand years, we walk with a local guide see the famous 'White Lady' rock painting. This evening our campsite is situated at the dry Ugab River, home to the rare desert elephants. Slightly smaller in size, with wider feet to adapt to desert conditions, desert elephants are often seen with broken or worn tusks as they are used to dig through hard dry ground in search of water. Approximate actual drive time: 7hrs 30mins. With stops for lunch and sightseeing a travel day of approximately 9hrs

Our adventure continues as we drive to the enchanting lunar looking site of Spitzkoppe. The granite dome peak of 1784m, is impressive with its majestic wild beauty rising from the surrounding flat terrain demonstrating some very old volcanic activity. The light is stunning during sun rise and sun set illuminating the plains and rock into pinks, reds and warm ochre colours. Speak to any guide who knows this region and camping in Spitzkoppe is always the highlight. The silence and wide open spaces add to the mystery and we have a lovely walk in the afternoon to the top of some domes for some splendid views. Camping here, away from the light pollution, allows us to star gaze until we have seen countless shooting stars and pointed out many constellations of the southern hemisphere. Approximate actual drive time: 6hrs. With stops for lunch and sightseeing a travel day of approximately 10hrs

Emerging from our tents in the pleasant cool of the morning we make ready for the day. Whilst our breakfast is cooking around camp, in the trees, you might see some rosy faced lovebirds, or a hornbill ready for a tasty insect for their breakfast. Crossing the incredible plains our destination today is the breezy Atlantic town of Swakopmund. We meet the Atlantic coast just south of the famous Skeleton Coast of Namibia where we stop at the Cape Cross Seal Reserve, the world's largest breeding colony of Cape Fur Seals. A short drive from here is our destination. Cool breezes, palm-lined streets and an ambiance reminiscent of a small German village, Swakopmund offers a distinct and refreshing Namibian experience. Here we have a couple of nights away from the canvas and stay in a guesthouse. Approximate actual drive time: 3hrs 30mins. With a morning walk and a visit to Cape Cross travel day of approximately 6hrs 30mins

Arguably Namibia's premier holiday resort, the town of Swakopmund was founded in the last decade of the nineteenth century, as the principal deepwater port of German South West Africa. Today it is a rather unusual place, with a quaint and atmospheric feel, sandwiched as it is between the Namib Desert and the cold Atlantic Ocean. It is as if a piece of 1950's Bavaria has somehow been cast ashore on the harsh Skeleton Coast. Amongst the distinctly Germanic architecture, an eclectic community have made Swakopmund their own, from artists to world travellers and big-game fishermen to stately African tribesmen, all contribute to the distinct character. We spend the day at leisure in this wild and whacky port-town. There are lots of activities that can be arranged locally, such as boat trips in search of dolphins, or to visit a nearby seal colony, ocean canoe safari, dune-boarding and even scenic flights over the Namib and along the Skeleton Coast - these are entirely optional and payable directly. Alternatively, you may choose to take it easy, visit the Crystal Galley, do a township tour or stroll along the beach.

Moving through the ever changing landscapes we make our way to the edge of the Namib-Naukluft National Park, the second largest game park in Africa (after the Central Kalahari), with a total area of just under 50000 km2. Here we find the iconic sharp-ridged Sossusvlei Dunes of the Namib Desert. Argued to be the highest dunes in the world, their ever changing colours make for wonderful photographic opportunities from sunrise to sunset! On arrival we walk for around 3-4km to Dead Vlei (the place of the iconic Namibia photo). Time permitting we might be able to ascend the highest sand dune of the area - Big Daddy (325m). For those who do not want to walk, there are optional 4WD vehicles (operated on a shuttle service by the park and payable locally) that can drive you in to the bottom of the dunes. Walking in these dunes is a true experience and provides us with superb views up and down the Sesriem Canyon of the Tsauchab River. If we are lucky we may spot an ostrich or even a jackal. Later, at our beautiful campsite, we discover the true meaning of being 'star-struck' under African desert skies. Approximate actual drive time: 5hrs. The desert scenery is varied but the road is rough gravel so with a few stops it's a travel day of approximately 7hrs 30mins

First thing this morning we have the opportunity to walk up Dune 45, it is absolutely stunning. Going down is a lot quicker and easier than going up! It also gives us a sense of scale and enormity as these dunes reach almost unbroken, from here to the Atlantic coast. This afternoon we can visit the Sesriem Canyon, and it is a place of arid beauty. The dreamscape stretches from towering lunar rock formations through to a natural sphinx formation close to the canyon mouth. With ample time to catch the ever-changing colours of a Namib Desert sunset, we return to our camp site for a second night of desert skies.

Located in a basin between the Khomas Highlands and Eros Mountains, Windhoek's charm is its fusion of African and European cultures. With a cosmopolitan atmosphere, we drive from African bush into the heart of a Germanic colonial era. More of a town than a bustling capital city, Windhoek's friendly centre, makes for easy exploration. On arrival we have the opportunity to spend some time seeking out souvenirs, or to simply admire the city's Neo-Baroque cathedral spires and colonial architecture. Windhoek is a wonderful city break within this safari adventure. Approximate actual drive time: 5hrs. Starting the day on rough gravel road we climb the escarpment for a travel day of approximately 6hrs.

Departing from the dreamland of Namibia we cross into the beauty of Botswana and head for the heart of the Kalahari. A desolate but mesmerising landscape, the territory of the Bushmen spans across most of Southern Africa with significant differences across each of the tribes. Hosted in traditional grass huts, it is possible we learn of Kalahari culture during the course of the evening. Approximate actual drive time: 7hrs 30mins. An early start on all tarmac roads, and with border crossings and stops including lunch a travel day of approximately 8hrs 30mins.

Before leaving the bushland we take a cool morning walk with the San Bushmen and learn more of their ancient and fascinating way of life. Bidding farewell to our San hosts, we drive onwards to the Okavango gateway town of Maun, where there is the opportunity to have experience free time in Maun. You may prefer to relax and take a dip in the pool or explore this capital town of Ngamiland. Alternatively there is the option to take a light aircraft flight over the Okavango Delta (payable locally). Maun has a wonderful laid back atmosphere and also provides a chance to participate in a spot of shopping for local handicrafts, as we prepare to depart the delta region of Botswana. Approximate actual drive time: 4hrs 30mins. After a morning walk, a good tarmac road to Maun and supply shopping, a travel day of approximately 5hrs 30mins.

Transferring into our open 4WD vehicles, we will drive for approximately 2 hours into the Okavango Delta. Every year, over 11,000 cubic kilometres of water flows from the Angolan Highlands into the Delta, making it the world's largest inland Delta. During our two days in the Delta we explore this wonderful wetland by way of a traditional dug-out canoe, the mokoro. Whilst the Delta is a wondrous-wetland, there are countless islands that are home to a vast number of wildlife species. Being gently poled along in our mokoro, provides the perfect opportunity to move within a safe distance of the wildlife without disturbing them as they go about their daily business. Such idyllic isolation of the Okavango makes for the most unusual encounters with the larger, iconic residents. Hippos, elephants, crocodiles and further down the food chain, antelope can be seen as we glide across Africa's most famous of waterways. Conditions today will dictate the timings of our Delta exploration. We make our way to our wild camp here in the bush. After the traditional African 'sundowner' we help out with the preparation of dinner and afterwards we can settle down for the night in the Delta accompanied by the soundtrack of croaking frogs. Transfer time to the Delta: 2 hours

The best time of the day in Africa is the early morning and with the sounds of the dawn chorus all around us we set out in the relative cool on a nature walk to explore this wonderful wetland. Before the walk our guides will give a safety briefing. We may encounter elephants or even lions on the walk and it is important to listen to the briefing and to follow the instructions of the guides. Returning to our camp for a well deserved brunch we have time to relax during the heat of the day and perhaps take a swim in the clear waters. We head out again into the Delta where we can enjoy another beautiful sunset before returning to camp or we may take another walk. Back at camp there will be an opportunity to take a bucket shower before dinner and spending our second night surrounded by the nocturnal murmurs of the Okavango.

Driving out of the Delta we may be lucky enough to encounter some wildlife en-route before preparing for another dramatic change of scenery. The shimmering salt pans of Makgadikgadi (pronounced ma-h'adee-h'adee), provide a glorious illusion of an endless plain. During the wet season when the pans transform into a valuable refuge of grassland, great herds of wildebeest and flamingos flock here in their thousands. However, in the dry season the expansive landscape transforms into a desolate and empty flat space from horizon to horizon, an eerily gigantic place to explore and appreciate. Although very little flora exists within the pans, Baobab trees thrive in this environment and have become very useful landmarks when navigating across this barren land. Approximate drive time: 4 hours.

The Chobe River is a stunning feature of our time in Chobe and is a crucial lifeline to one of the greatest concentrations of wildlife in Africa. Chobe is famed for herds of elephant which reside in the National Park. During the year the elephant population can vary from 500-50,000 and are most likely to be found on the banks of the Chobe, cooling off. Owing to its year-round supply of water, Chobe provides a permanent source of water for the elephant population of the Kalahari, known for their short brittle tusks due to calcium deficiency in the soil. Taking to the water in the afternoon, we embark on a sunset safari cruise to optimise our chances of meeting these majestic animals. Finishing the safari with the tradition of a sundowner, we return to our accommodation for a final evening. Approximate actual drive time: 4hrs. a travel day of approximately 4hrs 30mins.

We cross the border from Botswana into Zambia and drive to Livingstone. Our holiday ends at Livingstone Airport, Zambia. If your flight departs from Victoria Falls Airport you will transfer from Botswana into Zimbabwe, and therefore not entering Zambia. Approximate actual drive time: 1hr. Its not a long way, but the border crossing can be busy and slow, so a travel day of approximately 3hrs.