7 Day Botswana & South Africa Safari

Day 01

Johannesburg to the Okavango Delta, Botswana

Your journey begins with a flight from Johannesburg to Maun, the gateway to the Okavango Delta, which takes approximately 2 hours. From Maun, you will board a light aircraft charter for a scenic flight of around 30 to 45 minutes over winding waterways and palm-dotted islands before landing at Xaranna Airstrip. On arrival, your guide will meet you and transfer you by open safari vehicle to andBeyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp, with the drive to camp taking approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour through the Delta’s pristine wilderness.

Set within a private concession on the western side of the Delta, andBeyond Xaranna offers an intimate and exclusive safari experience surrounded by permanent water channels and expansive floodplains. The spacious luxury tents are positioned to maximise views over the floodplain, where wildlife is often seen moving through the area. Each tent features elegant interiors inspired by the soft tones of the Delta, along with a private plunge pool, outdoor shower and a generous deck, creating a peaceful and comfortable retreat in one of Africa’s most remarkable natural environments.

Day 02 & 03

On Safari in the Okavango Delta

Your days in the Okavango Delta are filled with a mix of land- and water-based safari experiences offered by andBeyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp. Mornings begin early with a light breakfast before heading out on a guided game drive or boat cruise through the Delta’s channels and floodplains. These activities offer excellent opportunities to see wildlife such as elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards and a variety of antelope and birdlife. A mid-morning tea and coffee stop in the bush gives you time to relax and take in the peaceful surroundings.

After returning to camp, the midday hours are yours to unwind. You can relax on your private deck, cool off in your plunge pool or simply enjoy the views over the floodplain. In the afternoon, high tea is served before heading out on another activity. This may include a game drive, boat cruise, guided walk or a tranquil mokoro (dug-out canoe) excursion through the Delta’s waterways. If you prefer to stay at camp, the main lodge area overlooks a waterhole where wildlife is often seen.
Evenings are a special time on safari, with dinner served under the stars followed by a nightcap around the fire, sharing stories of the day’s experiences in the heart of the African wilderness.

Day 04

Okavango Delta to Grootbos Nature Reserve (Grootbos Forest Lodge)

After breakfast at andBeyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp, you will be transferred to Xaranna Airstrip for your light aircraft flight to Maun, which takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes. From Maun, you will connect with your onward flight to Cape Town, a journey of around 2 hours. On arrival at Cape Town International Airport, you will be met and transferred by road to Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, a scenic drive of approximately 2 to 2.5 hours through the Hottentots Holland Mountains, with beautiful views of both mountains and coastline along the way.

Your home for the next few nights is Grootbos Forest Lodge, set amidst ancient Milkwood forests and indigenous fynbos landscapes overlooking Walker Bay. The lodge offers spacious, elegantly designed suites, each featuring a private deck with panoramic ocean views, an outdoor rain shower, underfloor heating for cooler evenings, and luxurious amenities that blend comfort with natural surroundings. The main lodge area includes a stylish lounge, restaurant, and spa, all positioned to take advantage of the breathtaking coastal scenery. Surrounded by one of the world’s richest floral kingdoms, Grootbos provides a serene and refined setting where you can fully relax and reconnect with nature.

Days 05, 06 & 07

Grootbos Forest Lodge

Your next few days are spent at leisure at Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, a 5,000-hectare conservation area overlooking Walker Bay and celebrated for its exceptional biodiversity. Located within the Cape Floral Kingdom—one of the richest floral regions in the world—the reserve is home to hundreds of fynbos species, ancient Milkwood forests and a pristine coastline. This unique combination of mountain, forest and marine ecosystems creates a peaceful and scenic setting where nature takes centre stage.
A wide range of activities is available to suit every interest. Guided nature walks introduce you to the fascinating fynbos vegetation and the conservation work taking place on the reserve, while coastal and historical beach walks provide insight into the area’s natural beauty and heritage. Between June and November, land-based whale watching offers the chance to see southern right whales in Walker Bay, often just offshore. Guests can also enjoy beach picnics, explore the coastline, or unwind with spa treatments at the lodge.

For those looking for more adventure, activities such as horse riding through the reserve, marine safaris in Walker Bay and nearby shark cage diving can be arranged. Whether you choose to stay active or simply relax and take in the panoramic ocean views from the lodge, Grootbos offers a diverse and rewarding coastal experience to complement your safari.

Day 08

Grootbos Nature Reserve to Cape Town

After breakfast, and perhaps one last chance to enjoy the views over Walker Bay, you will be transferred back to Cape Town. The scenic drive takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, passing through the beautiful coastal roads and mountain landscapes of the Western Cape.
On arrival at Cape Town International Airport, you will connect with your onward flight. This brings your journey through Botswana and South Africa to an end, leaving you with lasting memories of the Okavango Delta’s wilderness and the spectacular coastline of the Cape.