Safaris by design
SOUTHERN AFRICA SIGNATURE SAFARI
SCHURMAN SAFARI
HOW MANY DAYS BEFORE THE MAGIC STARTS?
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WHY YOU’D LOVE IT!
Experience a luxury Southern Africa safari across the five most breath-taking landscapes of spectacular Southern Africa. A once-in-a lifetime, custom African safari adventure where you will enjoy astonishing wildlife, luxury accommodation, and extraordinary experiences
Explore the mountains, rivers, and grasslands of South Africa’s extraordinary Welgevonden Private Game Reserve at your leisure. A UNESCO conservation site and the location of your four-night Big-5 Safari
Experience a water safari through Botswana’s stunning Chobe National Park spotting hippos, leopards, giraffes, crocodiles, and more from the comfort of the exquisite Chobe River House Boat. Drink in the phenomenal views from the private viewing deck.
See the astonishing sight of Zimbabwe’s incredible Victoria Falls. Enjoy everything from elephant encounters to white-water rafting, helicopter tours, a visit to a traditional African village, and bungee jumping!
A truly astonishing safari adventure, filled with magical experiences that you won’t find anywhere else in the world!
OVERVIEW
Itinerary at a glance
◽️ DAY 0 | Travel
Departure
◽️ DAY 1 | South Africa
Johannesburg arrival
◽️ DAY 2-5 | South Africa
Welgevonden GR
◽️ DAY 6-13 | South Africa
Hunt
◽️ DAY 14 | South Africa
Johannesburg
◽️ DAY 15-17 | Zimbabwe
Chobe River houseboat
◽️ DAY 18-19 | Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls
◽️ DAY 20 | Return
Departure
MAP
MAP
Visualize your journey!
3 DESTINATIONS ACROSS SOUTHERN AFRICA
DESTINATION 1
SOUTH AFRICA
BIG 5 SAFARI
- 4×4 land-based safari
- Shared safari vehicle
- Luxury accommodation
DESTINATION 2
BOTSWANA/NAMIBIA BORDER
CHOBE RIVER
- Water-based safari
- Tiger fishing
- Elephants galore!
DESTINATION 3
ZIMBABAWE
VICTORIA FALLS
- Victoria falls experience
- Elephant interaction
- Optional activities
DAY 0
DEPARTURE
Travel
DEPARTURE
Your adventure starts now!
Embark on an African safari and anticipate breathtaking landscapes, encountering diverse and majestic wildlife in their natural habitats, and immersing yourself in the rich cultural experiences of the continent.
* See your safari itinerary for transfer logistics
DAY 1
JOHANNESBURG
Overnight
📍 The Lakes Lodge
THE LAKES LODGE
Guest House Overview
Bed & Breakfast, Dinner à la Carte** | Wifi available | No laundry service
The Lakes Lodge in Silverlakes, Pretoria, is an enchanting retreat that promises a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Nestled within a beautiful estate, the lodge boasts stunning views of serene lakes and lush gardens, providing an ideal backdrop for unwinding. Guests can enjoy leisurely strolls along the scenic pathways, savoring the peaceful ambiance while spotting diverse bird species that call the area home.
In addition to its picturesque setting, The Lakes Lodge offers a variety of amenities and activities to enhance your stay. From luxurious accommodations and an inviting restaurant to nearby golf courses and wellness facilities, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo retreat, The Lakes Lodge is the perfect destination for overnight accommodation.
DINNER, B&B
GUEST HOUSE
OVERNIGHT
DAY 2-5
WELGEVONDEN GR
Safari days
📍57 Waterberg Lodge
WELGEVONDEN GAME RESERVE
Welgevonden Game Reserve offers a captivating and unspoiled haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, providing a unique opportunity to witness the splendor of the African wilderness up close. Spanning over 37,000 acres of pristine landscapes, the reserve boasts a remarkable commitment to conservation.
The reserve comprises mountainous terrain that is dissected by deep valleys, while flat plateaus characterize most hilltops. Altitude varies from 1,080 m in the north to ±1800 m in the southern section of the reserve. With a size of 98,000 acres in mountain bushveld surrounding rivers, this private reserve has never been used for game hunting, so the wildlife is more relaxed and approachable.
The Reserve was founded in 1987 and constitutes farmland that has been reclaimed for wildlife conservation, and it has extensively been restocked with numerous species, including the Big Five: lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and cheetah. It is home to over 50 different mammals and various antelope species, with a diverse birdlife to be found in the rolling bushveld terrain. It has one of the largest populations of white rhino on any private reserve in Africa!
The diversity of habitat leads to a wide range of wildlife, with grassy plains abounding with antelope, from the largest eland to the diminutive duiker, all of which attract large predators such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs, which are regularly seen close by. There are also numerous rare and unusual species, such as brown hyena, aardwolf, pangolin, and aardvark, all best seen at night. Over 300 bird species can be seen on the reserve, including rare blue cranes, which breed in the southern section early in the year.
Visiting guests will enjoy unlimited traversing through the reserve and experience an environment where biodiversity conservation and game viewing are managed in harmony. Welgevonden protects a unique and special environment, and the reserve’s management is deeply committed to ongoing conservation, research, and development.
Encounter the iconic Big Five and immerse yourself in a sanctuary where diverse flora and fauna thrive harmoniously. Thrilling twice-daily game drives, relaxing evenings, and luxury accommodation
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Actitity: Safari days
The vast 36,000 hectares of the Welgevonden Game Reserve is a treasure trove of life, boasting a remarkable 65 mammal species, 300 different bird species, and the iconic Big 5. Yet, what sets Welgevonden apart are its unique residents, including the elusive aardwolf, the enigmatic brown hyena, and the graceful cheetahs.
Embark on two daily game drives led by experienced rangers who will unveil the intimate secrets of the abundant flora and fauna, many of which are unique to the Waterberg region. As the sun dips below the horizon, savor sundowner drinks and let the enchanting embrace of the African bush envelop you during evening game safaris. It's here, under the veil of night, that the African bush comes to life, with predators stealthily stalking their prey, a truly magnificent sight to behold.
57 WATERBERG LODGE
Lodge Overview
FULL BOARD
CHALET
GAME VIEW
DAY 6-13
HUNTING
Cape Buffalo hunt
📍 Hunting Camp
PORT ELIZABETH HUNTING
FULL BOARD
CAMP
HUNT
DAY 14
JOHANNESBURG
Overnight
📍 African Sky Boutique Hotel
AFRICAN SKY HOTEL
Guest House Overview
Dinner & Breakfast (drinks excl.) | Wifi available | No Laundy service
Welcome to South Africa! Johannesburg (JNB / OR Tambo) Airport arrival with meet & greet service.
Your arrival night overnight accommodation: AfricaSky Boutique Hotel is conveniently located only 10 minutes from Johannesburg's O.R. Tambo International airport. A short drive will have you arriving at an oasis, rooms beautifully appointed and nestled in a peaceful lush garden. Enjoy dinner, bed & breakfast all on-site. True African hospitality and service excellence.
Just look out towards the information desk located in the arrivals hall for your pick-up with your name on it. 10 Minute road transfer to your overnight accommodation.
DINNER, B&B
GUEST HOUSE
OVERNIGHT
DAY 15-17
CHOBE RIVER
Water based safari!
📍 Chobe Princess House Boat
CHOBE RIVER
Area Overview
Chobe National Park includes two incredible wildlife areas: Chobe Riverfront and Savute. The Chobe River is one of Africa’s magical rivers, attracting animal of all sizes. Chobe also offers the highest density of elephants to be found anywhere in Africa, Chobe National Park is the ultimate safari destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Immerse yourself in nature's grandeur and witness the breathtaking spectacle of Chobe River's prolific wildlife, where majestic elephants roam freely, diverse bird species take flight, and unforgettable safari adventures await, making it a must-visit destination for every intrepid traveler.
The Chobe River forms its northern boundary and in the extreme south-west it borders the Moremi Game Reserve. The riverfront is a markable wildlife area due to the permanent water source of the Chobe River. Most wildlife activity occurs along the banks of the river - especially during the drier winter months (May – October) when animals congregate at the river to quench their thirst. The spectacle of all the animals coming to drink and frolic at the water's edge is a sight to behold! Birding enthusiasts will find the riverfront a fantastic destination at this time with more than 400 species of birds, including migratory species and numerous birds of prey.
All that said, Chobe National Park is most famous for its elephant and buffalo populations, both of which can herd in mammoth proportions. With an estimated 40,000 to 60,000 elephants, these gentle giants constantly surround you.
The park's picturesque wetlands also attract a wide variety of bird life, with the chance to see numerous species among the 460 that call this place home or pass through, including raptors, vultures, and waterfowl.Head out on a sunrise game drive to observe the animals at the beginning of their day, when they are most active. You might even spot a leopard returning from a hunt.When you return to your luxury accommodations at the lodge in the evening, take pleasure in the comforts it offers, gather for dinner, and share stories about your day.
CHOBE PRINCESS
House Boat Overview
Full board, excl. premium drinks | Wifi (limited) available on the boat | No laundry services available
Take your Chobe River game viewing experience to another level! With no set itinerary and only a small number of guests per boat, staying here feels like being on your own houseboat – and a very well appointed one! .
Cruising along the Chobe River (Chobe NP) at a leisurely pace with ever-changing landscapes is an exclusive and unique experience! Give your safari an edgy flavor and include a stay on a beautiful house boat -the perfect end to your trip! Game viewing from the water provides a different perspective to wildlife behavior and the fishing opportunities are a dream come true for any avid fisherman!
Each cabin is tastefully decorated in a contemporary style, and each has its own private view onto the ever-changing landscapes beyond.As you lie on your king-sized bed, spot an elephant grazing on the riverbank nearby, or see a fish eagle diving for its prey. On the upper entertainment deck, a spacious lounge and bar area encourages you to take time out while there’s also a plunge pool that’s perfect for a refreshing dip. After a day spent doing as you please, fall asleep with the calls of hyena or even a lion drifting through the open doors of your cabin.The house boat has a minimum of 2 smaller “tender” boats for use on daily excursions.
A major attraction of the area is the elephants, whose resident population is estimated to be over 120,000. Over 450 bird species found in this wetland paradise, try your hand at landing a tiger fish, or capture Africa’s unique beauty on a photographic safari. Whatever you choose to do, your day trips will be personal and flexible because you’ll be sharing the tender boats with a small number of guests. Alternatively, simply laze on a deck chair with an ice-cold drink in hand as you soak up the tranquillity that surrounds you.
Kasane Airport or Kasane Immigration point pick up is followed by motorized boat transfer to the Namibian Immigration Office to get your passport stamped; proceed to the boat. Get ready to be amazed! See your safari itinerary for transfer logistics
HOUSEBOAT TRANSFER & OTHER INFO
MAP

ENTRY & DEPARTURE INFO
As the houseboats are based on the Namibian side of the Chobe River, please ensure you familiarize yourself with visa requirements applicable to Botswana and Namibia as guests will be required to enter both countries. For more information on visa requirements for Namibia, click here.
The Namibian Government require all visitors to Namibia to have at least six full blank pages (3 back-to-front empty) in their passports on arrival into the country and require that the passport be valid for at least six months beyond the intended departure date from Namibia. Proof of onward travel documents are also required. Unabridged birth certificates are required for all minors traveling in Southern Africa.
Please note that you as the traveler is responsible for determining what documentation is required, as well as ensuring any such documentation including medical certificates, passports, visas, unabridged birth certificates are up to date and have been obtained before travel within the restrictions related to each country.
Due to constantly changing border entry requirements, it is recommended that travelers and or/travel agents contact the appropriate embassy for accurate and up-to-date information
KASANE AIRPORT ARRIVAL
In order to check-in from Kasane, you will need to exit Botswana and enter Namibia and the process will take around 30 – 45 minutes from the time of arrival in Kasane:
On arrival, your first priority is to make sure you get your passport stamped at the airport
- You’ll then be met by a representative at the airport who will help with your luggage and transfer you to the Kasane Immigration Office in an air-conditioned vehicle
- Once you arrive at Kasane Immigration Office, a Zambezi Queen Collection staff member will meet you and help with your luggage as well as formalities at passport control as you exit Botswana
- A Zambezi Queen Collection staff member will then transfer you by motorized boat to the Namibian Immigration Office, where you’ll get your passport stamped. Please wear comfortable shoes, a hat and sunscreen as there is a short walk to the immigration office
- Both Kasane and Namibian immigration offices open at 07h30 and close at 16h30 daily
- When arriving at the Kasane and Namibian Immigration Offices guests needs to fill in the required immigration forms to gain access and departure permission from the relevant authorities. This process can take between 45 to 60 minutes to complete and needs to be considered in terms of timing and pre-planning when coming to stay on one of the houseboats or at the lodge.
- Should you know beforehand that you will arrive at Kasane Immigration office before 13h00 on the day of your arrival, please notify our reservations office 48 hours before you arrive
- Collection is from 13h00 on day of arrival
- Drop off is from 09h30 on day of departure
TRANSFER TO THE HOUSE BOAT
Traveling with minors? Note the unabridged birth certificate & consent letter requirement when traveling minors.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
MEDICAL
Should you make use of a CPAP (a small medical supervising device), the houseboats switch over to an inverter system after 22h00 at night and we connect the CPAP to our inverter system. Please advise at time of booking whether you require medical assistance.
In the unlikely case of an emergency:
Nearest hospital in in Kasane – this is a government hospital and only a 10 minute drive from Kasane Immigration Office.
There is a nurse on Impalila Island that our operations team will contact if there is an emergency.
Kasane Primary Hospital • Hospitals - Public • Kasane, Kasane (medpages.info)
POWER & CONNECTIVITY
On board the houseboats, there is limited mobile and roaming connection. Wifi is available intermittently on the Zambezi Queen. Wifi is not available on the Chobe Princess houseboats however, see this as the perfect opportunity for you to unplug and be in the moment, while you reconnect with nature and shore up exciting stories to share with your friends once you get back on dry land. Cellphone reception is possible throughout most of the Chobe and Zambezi rivers.
ELECTRICITY SUPPLY:
The main electricity supply on all houseboats within the Zambezi Queen Collection is supplied by generators. The Zambezi Queen switches over to land generators at 20h00 and the Chobe Princesses at 22h00 and both switch back onto generators at 06h00. Everything functions as per usual. In case of a generator failure, there is an inverter emergency power supply that will supply power to all lights, air-conditioning and select plugs in cabins.
POWER ADAPTORS:
- Botswana: M-plug & G-plug adaptors. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
- Namibia and South Africa: M-plug adaptors. The standard voltage is 220 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
SPECIAL DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
DRONES
Drones are banned for use within 5 nautical miles of Namibian national parks unless you have permission to do so. The Zambezi Queen Collection does not permit the use of drones due to our proximity to the Chobe National Park. Drone laws are constantly changing therefore we advise you check with the relevant aviation authority to ensure you are up to date on the latest drone laws prior to your trip.
DRESS CODE
GRATUITIES
DISABLED FACILITIES
WATER ON BOARD
RESPONSIBLE TOURISM
- The most fuel efficient and lowest emission generators during the day. After 22h00, the entire boat switches over to the battery power through the night
- Hot water is provided by a solar heating system on-board the vessel
- Energy-saving lights are installed through the vessel
- All our cleaning detergents and amenities are biodegradable
- We use an eight-stage river water purification plant for water in showers, taps and our pool
- A water jet propulsion system replaces the conventional propeller system causing no damage to the riverbed and/or fauna and flora
- As part of our commitment to preserving our surroundings, we aim to leave no lasting footprint on the environment in which we operate
FAQ’S
Kasane.
Are there are flights from Johannesburg to Kasane
There are flights from Johannesburg to Kasane daily.
What is the nearest access point for the Chobe Princess / Zambezi Queen?
Kasane. There are flights from Johannesburg to Kasane daily.
How far is Kasane from Victoria Falls?
Approximately 90 minutes by road – it can easily be combined with a stay in Victoria Falls.
What is included in the rate?
Apart from the accommodation on-board, three meals daily, all scheduled activities and selected wines, beers, ciders and soft drinks.
What transfers are included?
Road transfers to & from Kasane Airport are included in the rate.
Does the Chobe Princess / Zambezi Queen sail on the Zambezi River?
No, the vessel was named on the river it was built, but it sails on the Chobe River. The confluence of the Zambezi and Chobe River is 5 km from the vessel's first mooring point.
How far does the Chobe Princess / Zambezi Queen travel on the Chobe River?
Approximately 25 kilometers.
Are guests seated together at mealtimes?
No, unless they form part of a group booking.
Are children permitted and from what age?
Yes, children from ages 7 upwards. Triple rooms are available for kids sharing with their parents (Max 1 child per suite)
What about special dietary requirements?
Where possible, dietary requirements will be accommodated by prior arrangement. Halaal and Kosher meals are regrettably not possible.
What currencies are accepted on-board?
Namibian Dollar, South African Rand, Botswana Pula and US Dollar.
Are credit cards accepted?
Yes, Master and Visa cards are accepted
Do you offer fishing?
Yes, tiger and bream fishing is possible on the Chobe River. We offer basic fishing tackle for keen fishermen.
Can you confirm whether all cabins are air conditioned?
All cabins are air-conditioned. However, please note at 22h00 when the generators are switched, the secondary supply starts then the cabin fans can be used
Can I use my CPAP (small medical supervising device) at night?
The houseboat switches over onto an inverter system after 22h00 at night and at this point the CPAP machine connected to the inverter system. Please indicate when making the booking
Plug points in the suites?
The 3 prong South African plugs and the 2 prong European plugs available in the cabins. Should you require an American adaptor this is available upon Click here for Amazon to buy M-plug adaptors
FULL BOARD
HOUSE BOAT
GAME VIEW
DAY 18-19
VICTORIA FALLS
Experience
📍 528 Vic Falls Guest House
VICTORIA FALLS
Area Overview
Victoria Falls is the 7th wonder of the world! Located in Zimbabwe, situated in the heart of Southern Africa and entirely landlocked. 12% of its land is allocated to National Parks and Game Reserves.
Undoubtedly, the country's most iconic attraction is the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, the largest waterfall in the world, locally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya, or the "Smoke That Thunders" because of the spray made by the mass of water dropping 100 meters below in the gorges. Victoria Falls is twice the size of Niagara Falls and stretches across a significantly longer distance. Visitors can get up close to the falls, but be prepared to experience some splashing.
The Victoria Falls, now in it's 150 millionth fantastic year, - its zenith in about May each year. It’s a truly awe-inspiring experience—the sight, the sound, the smell—and the humbling feeling that this is indeed nature's supreme masterpiece. No photograph can begin to depict reality. And nothing prepares you for your first sight. .
The Victoria Falls present a spectacular sight of awe-inspiring beauty and grandeur on the Zambezi River, forming the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe—the largest sheet of falling water in the world and significant worldwide for its exceptional geological and geomorphological features and active land formation processes with outstanding beauty attributed to the falls, i.e., the spray, mist, and rainbows.
David Livingstone was the first European to see the Victoria Falls in 1855. The Scottish explorer is believed to have been the first European to view the falls, and he named them Victoria Falls in honor of Queen Victoria.
While in Victoria Falls, don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a delightful cruise on the Zambezi River for a different perspective of the falls, especially during sunset. You can also opt for a thrilling helicopter ride over the falls. For a unique experience, consider having afternoon tea at the classic Victoria Falls Hotel. Additionally, if you're interested in shopping, Victoria Falls is an excellent place to purchase local souvenirs, artwork, and handcrafted carvings.
528 VIC FALLS
Bed & Breakfast | Wifi available | Laundry available at adl.cost
The ideal destination from which our guests can explore the mighty Victoria Falls! and surrounds!Neutral and earthy-tones are blended with splashes of bright colors throughout the lodge. As you enter the house, after passing the lovely pond, a warm foyer greets you with a mixture of wall art and a curious wallpaper.
Each of the 7 rooms have their own view over the gardens. All rooms have en-suite, stylish bathrooms with bronze washbasins, and showers with hand-carved screens.
The main dining area, where breakfasts are served is bright and colorful thanks to more art and the large glass windows that stretch to the high double volume ceiling. From this room, the doors open onto the patio, the garden and the swimming pool.
Lounges and patios are the perfect spot for reading, relaxing and chatting. One of the highlights is the "Treetop Bar" on the third floor, which has wonderful views above the tree canopy and beyond to the Zambezi River and Zambia in the distance.It's an ideal place for sun-downers and as evening settles in, to gaze up at the endless African night sky.
ACTIVITIES
Explore everything the Victoria Falls Rain forest are has to offer! Crafts, curios and more!
*A warm welcome awaits on arrival at the airport! Please be on the lookout for your driver with your name sign. Baggage assistance followed by a 20 mins. road transfer to your accommodation.
*See your safari itinerary for transfer logistics
Transfer to Victoria Falls via commercial flight. Flight time from Cape Town to Victoria Falls is 3 hrs, and 1.5 hr from Johannesburg. Flights are booked and details provided by AfricaPhotoSafaris.
B&B
GUEST HOUSE
TOURS
DAY 20
RETURN
DEPARTURE
See your safari itinerary for transfer details
Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end! Goodbye to the safari life, feeling relaxed, mesmerizing scenery, great food, family time, and romantic memories.
Morning road transfer back to the airport for your outbound flight... dreaming of the trip of a lifetime!
IMPORTANT INFO TO TAKE NOTE OF
PAPERWORK
THE FOLLOWING 4 ITEMS MUST BE COMPLETED AND RETURNED TOGETHER WITH THE DEPOSIT PAYMENT:
1. Passports
2. Safari Contract
3. Indemnity
4. Safari Guest information
TAKE ACTION:
- Email or Whatsapp a clear color copy of all travelers' passports
- Notes:
- Passport must be valid at least 6 months past your return date to your home country
- Please check the 👉 number of blank Visa pages required by each country
- Please note 👉 special requirements when traveling with a minor(s)
ACTION ITEMS:
- Click to download the 👉 Safari Contract
- Print & fill out and sign
- Take a picture with your phone of the first & last page and email back to Africa Photo Safaris
ACTION ITEMS:
- Print, fill out & sign APPENDIX C / Indemnity 👉 Click here
- Return a copy to Africa Photo Safaris
Note:
APPENDIX C / Indemnity is required for each person going on the safari.
ACTION ITEMS:
- Download the 👉 Safari Guest Information sheet
- Fill oput all the details, sign and return a copy to Africa Photo Safaris
Note:
- Complete and return a copy for each person going on the safari
OTHER IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS TO TAKE NOTE OF, AS THIS IS GUEST REPONSIBILITY
1. Visas
2. Special requirements when Traveling with Minors
VISA Application/Approvals & PASSPORT Validity, incl. the required amoutn of emty Visa Pages in the passport are guest’s sole responsibility.
Africa Photo Safaris can assist you with Visa applications (addl. fee applies)
ACTION ITEM:
- Please refer to https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html for updated information on each country.
- 👉 Click for more detailed information
- US citizens need to obtain a visa at the port of entry:
- Zimbabwe: Cost is US $ 50 per person and should be paid in US$ cash/Dollar bills
- Namibia: Approx US $ 90 per person and must be purchased online prior to travel
- Tanzania: $ 100 and must be purchased online prior to travel
- Kenya: $ 32 and must be purchased online prior to travel
- Uganda: $ 50 and must be purchased online prior to travel
‼️ Requirements for travelling with underage children / minors
IMPORTANT MANDATORY REQUIREMENT FOR TRAVELING TO SOUTHERN AFRICAN COUNTRIES, including South Africa, Namibia, Botswana & Zimbabwe
👉 TRAVELING WITH MINORS TO SOUTHERN AFRICA
All minor children travelling through any South African port of entry must have comply with the requirements below, depending on their spesific situationn:
- CHILD ACCOMPANIED BY BOTH PARENTS
- CHILD ACCOMPANIED BY ONE PARENT
Click for the 👉 Official website