15 Day Intimate and Accommodated Scheduled Safari – 2018 Itinerary ref: IBZE

15 days tour where you will encounter With some of the world’s greatest wildlife, Botswana and Zimbabwe are perfect partners for a safari. Enjoy our guides' expertise and knowledge of both countries, and get to explore two of Southern 's most enigmatic countries with its endangered wild dogs, rhino tracking, iconic Victoria Falls and among others, a traditional canoe trip.

Highlights: Victoria Falls, Game Drive in , Sunset cruise on the Chobe River, Hwange National Park, Lake Kariba, Matobo National Park and Rhodes Grave, , Makgadikgadi Pans, Game Drives in the Moremi National Park & Khwai, experience including Mokoro excursion.

Day 1 A’ River Lodge (or similar), Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe – 1 night accommodation At arrival into Victoria Falls Airport you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the afternoon may be spent at leisure enjoying one of the many activities available in Victoria Falls. This evening you will meet your guide and the rest of your group at the lodge at 18h00 for your pre-departure meeting. Victoria Falls ‘So lovely it must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight’, said David Livingstone of the supreme Mosi-oa-Tunya (‘The Smoke That Thunders’). This legendary traveller first saw the falls from the Zambian side and his memory is enshrined in the nearby town of Livingstone. The views from the Zimbabwean & Zambian side are quite different, varying dramatically depending on the season and water flow. The falls are over a mile in length and boast the largest curtain of water in the world – over 500million litres of water per minute cascade over the falls and drop 100m at Rainbow Falls on the Zambian side. Not surprisingly is it the seventh natural wonder of the world and fast becoming one of the top adventure destinations in the world. The river is divided into a series of braided channels that descend in many separate falls. Below the falls the river enters a narrow series of gorges, which represent locations successively occupied by the falls earlier in their history. Since the uplifting of the area some two million years ago, the Zambezi River has been cutting through the basalt base rock, exploiting weak fissures, and forming a series of retreating gorges. Seven previous waterfalls occupied the seven gorges below the present falls, and Devil’s Cataract in Zimbabwe is where the next cut back will form a new waterfall that will eventually leave the present falls lip high above the river in the gorge below. Please contact our reservation office for the activities offered at Victoria Hotel.

Day 2 & 3 Chobe Safari Lodge (or similar), Chobe National Park – 2 nights accommodation After breakfast your guide will take you on a tour of the mighty Victoria Falls, known by the local Kololo tribe as Mosi oa Tunya - “the smoke that thunders”. We then travel to Kasane in Botswana, the gateway to the Chobe National Park. Chobe, which is the second largest national park in Botswana and covers 10,566 square km, has one of the greatest concentrations of elephant found on the African continent. The afternoon is at leisure to partake in optional activities or to relax by the pool. Distance: 100km; Departure: 08h00(B/B) Chobe National Park is approximately 11,000km² of wilderness area watered by the Chobe & Savuti Rivers and thus attracts huge concentrations of game. This includes lion and some of the highest concentrations of elephant in Africa – an estimated population of around 25,000 in winter. Game viewing is renowned and in the Northern areas near Kasane, both the riverboat game viewing experience and the 4x4 vehicle option are popular. In addition the spectacular annual summer migrations of plains game, especially zebra is a highlight, as well as giraffe, warthog and numerous antelope including sable, roan, oribi, reedbuck, lechwe and the colourful Chobe bushbuck. Bird watching opportunities in Chobe are ample and include some 350 species including the awesome African fish eagle, the rare Pell’s fishing owl, saddle-billed storks, long-toed Plovers, pink-backed pelicans, African skimmers, Bradfield’s Hornbills and Carmine bee-eaters. In addition, the sunsets are spectacular.

Day 4&5 Sable Sands (or similar), Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe – 2 night accommodation This morning we make our way across the border into Zimbabwe and to our lodge situated in a private concession near Hwange National Park. Over the following two days, we will have plenty of time to explore this vast wilderness on game drives. Hwange National Park is one of Africa's finest havens for wildlife and is home to great herds of elephant, buffalo, and zebra and has a very large concentration of giraffe. It is also home to many predators and endangered species plus varied birdlife. On arrival, we will visit the Painted Dog Conservation Centre to witness the work that is done to protect this endangered species. If time allows, you can partake in an optional game drive on the concession in the afternoon. The whole of the next day is spent exploring this magnificent area on a full day game drive in Hwange National Park. (BLD/BLD) Approx distance: 280 km, departure: 08h00.

Day 6 & 7 Umbozha Houseboats (or similar), Lake Kariba Zimbabwe – 2 night accommodation We travel to Binga which is located on the south eastern shore of Lake Kariba, where we will board a luxury houseboat for a relaxing two-night trip. Nested in mountains, Lake Kariba is a man-made inland sea guarded by enormous reserves of game and made beautiful and savage by sun and storm, earth and water. Our voyage takes us to the Sengwe River for afternoon wildlife activities and sunset, followed by drinks and dinner on board. In the morning we set out early for some leisurely fishing, guided walks or game viewing depending on your preference. When we return, brunch will be served whilst cruising to Elephant Bay where we will moor at one of the islands with a sandy beach. Watch the sunset over lake, relaxing around a camp fire and enjoying a beach barbecue under the starry sky (BLD/BLD) Distance: 185km; Departure 07h00

Day 8 & 9 Camp Amalinda (or similar), Matobo, Zimbabwe – 2 night accommodation We end our houseboat experience with some morning game viewing activities on Lake Kariba and cruise back to Binga where our voyage started. After disembarking we travel southwards to the majestic Matobo Hills, an area of exquisite beauty, steeped in tribal history, ancient mystery and dramatic rock landscapes. The national park has been given UNESCO World Heritage status and is home to both white and black rhinoceros, sable antelope and the world’s densest population of leopard. Birdlife is prolific and includes the highest concentration of black eagles in the world. Once the home of the San (Bushman), this area contains the richest source of the rock art found anywhere. Not only is it here that the Ndebele people buried their great king, Mzilikazi, but Cecil John Rhodes was also laid to rest on the “Hill of the Benevolent Spirit” or “World’s View” as named by him. We spend the next day in the national park, starting our morning with tracking rhino spoor by vehicle and foot. In the afternoon we further explore the scenery and wildlife of the park on game drives, ending with a visit to Rhodes’ grave (BLD/BLD) Distance: 485 km ; Departure; 08h00

Day 10 Nata Lodge (or similar), Nata, Botswana – 1 night accommodation We leave Matobo Hills and drive through the savannas of southern Matebeleland en-route to Botswana. In the afternoon we visit the Nata Bird Sanctuary, where we will have the opportunity to enjoy the magnificent view over the Sowa pan which is part of the Greater Makgadikgadi Pans. (Please note a visit to the pans is subject to the road conditions and water levels as well as time constraints.) We arrive at our lodge in the late afternoon (BLD) Approx Distance: 375km; Departure 06h00

Day 11 Plant Baobab (or similar), Makgadikgadi Pans, Botswana – 1 night accommodation A very early morning departure leads us to Planet Baobab near Gweta, from where we embark on an expedition to Ntwetwe Pan to encounter some of Botswana’s distinctive landscapes and extraordinary creatures. Ntwetwe Pan Excursion:The Ntwetwe Pan is one of the two major pans that make up the Makgadikgadi Pans, and is amongst the largest saltpans in the world. The pan was fed by the until it was left permanently dry following the construction of the Dam, which provides water for the diamond mines in Orapa. The waters may have returned to the river but Ntwetwe is now famous for its extraordinary lunar landscape, particularly the rocky outcrops, dunes, islets, and channels found along the western shore. We explore the area, in search of uniquely adapted desert species such as bat eared foxes, springbuck, kori bustards, and some of the Kalahari’s most fascinating inhabitants, the meerkats. By spending quality time with these incredibly social, superbly adapted animals, you will be able to see how they interact with each other and their environment. Due to an ongoing habituation programme it’s possible to get up-close and personal with these captivating creatures. After lunch we have the opportunity to explore a nearby village to experience modern African village culture. Learn about the history and traditions of the Batswana people from a local guide whose knowledge has been inherited from their forefathers. Visit the local primary school, ‘Sekolo’ with its outdoor classes and meet the children, visit the Kgotla – a traditional court that governs the village and get a glimpse of rural Botswana life. In the late afternoon we take a stroll with our guide through an impressive baobab grove, as he explains the local ecology, geology and the unique biology of the baobabs, which are in fact not trees but the largest succulents in the world. (BLD) Approx distance: 200 km, departure: 05h00

Day 12 Lodge (or similar), Maun, Botswana – 1 nights accommodation After breakfast we depart and make our way to Maun, a bustling safari town which serves as the gateway to the Okavango Delta. The name Maun is derived from the San word “maung”, which means “the place of short reeds”. The afternoon is yours to spend at leisure, either relaxing next to the pool at the lodge or if you are keen for some excitement, why not book an optional scenic flight over the delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and truly glorious oasis. Please contact our reservation office for the activities offered at Maun (B)Distance: 225km; Departure 07h00

Day 13 Hyena Pan Tented Camp (or similar), Khwai River, Botswana – 1 nights accommodation After breakfast we take a short drive to the mokoro station. From here, we will float in dug-out canoes through the thick vegetation of the Okavango Delta discovering a variety of birds and wildlife. Unlike other deltas, it flows into the without ever reaching the coast. After this spectacular excursion and lunch, we make our way to our camp, which is situated in the Khwai River region. After settling into our camp, we will enjoy dinner and embark on a night game drive in the concession – a fantastic opportunity to spot some nocturnal animals that are more difficult to encounter during the day.. (BLD) Distance: 150 km; Departure 07h00

Day 14 Hyena Pan Tented Camp (or similar), Khwai River, Botswana – 1 nights accommodation

After breakfast we head into the famous known as one of the most beautiful and varied reserves in Africa with an unprecedented concentration of wildlife. The full day is spent in the unspoiled nature of the Moremi Game Reserve. (BLD) Distance: 150 km; Departure 07h00

Day 15 End of tour Our safari ends after breakfast. You will be transferred to in time for your departure flight. We hope to welcome you again one day on another of our African adventures! .(B)

2018 Rates (valid to 31 December 2018) Price per person sharing US$4,719 Single supplement US$1,630 Plus Local payment US$250 French/German Guide Supplement EUR45

*Please note all rates are subject to change according to rate of exchange fluctuations

Please note there are limited single rooms available on this tour due to the size of lodges used, there is a discounted single supplement available for clients willing to share when limited single rooms available for certain nights

Min: 4 guests Max: 12 guests

2018 Departures 22 Feb; 21*Mar; 8 Apr; 9 & 25** May; 13 Jun; 4 & 16 Jul; 1* & 27** Aug; 5 & 25* Sep; 10 & 30* Oct & 9 Nov.

* German departure; ** Guaranteed departure – No Minimum Group Size; F Bilingual French/English departure

Meal Key B- Breakfast L- lunch D- Dinner

Included: Accommodation as indicated; meals (14 x Breakfast, 10 x Lunch & 10 Dinner) and activities as indicated per itinerary, transport in appropriate vehicle, game drives as mentioned, park entrance fees; experienced local guide

Excluded: Items of a personal nature; snacks and all drinks; souvenirs; sleeping bags; tips; ; optional activities; personal travel insurance; pre/post safari accommodation; flights; visas etc.

Pre-and post-tour accommodation and transfers can be arranged on request. Should you require alternative accommodation or transfers to different points, please contact Chameleon Holidays & Travel and we will gladly assist you.

Departure: The Intimate Botswana & Zimbabwe Safari departs from either A ’Zambezi River Lodge or similar in Victoria Falls. Please note that the daily departure times are a guideline only and are subject to change due to seasonal variations, as well as unforeseen circumstances. The final decision rests with the guide who will advise you at what time you will be departing each day. On the evening of Day 1, there will be a meeting presented by your guide, at 6pm, at the lodge. It is imperative that all clients attend this meeting so as not to miss out on any critical information. Whilst it is the operator every intention to adhere to the above-mentioned itinerary, there may on occasion be a necessity to make alterations in order to make the tour more enjoyable or practical. Therefore, please treat the itinerary as a guide only.

Transport: The operator uses fully equipped Toyota Land Cruisers, 12-seater 4x4 safari vehicles or other appropriate vehicle with comfortable seating, large windows for game viewing and a music and PA system and air conditioning. All luggage, besides hand luggage and photo equipment, is carried on the vehicle or trailer roof racks to ensure maximum comfort in the vehicle. For transfers between Victoria Falls and Hwange (or vice versa) 2x4 vehicles may be utilized

Travelling Times and Distances: All travelling times are affected by road conditions, border crossings, detours and weather conditions, therefore on certain days travelling times may be longer than anticipated especially where there is a lot of distance to be covered. Please keep in mind that the time it takes to travel 100km in your home country is not equivalent to the time it takes to travel 100 km on African roads, therefore we encourage you to sit back and enjoy the spectacular scenery Africa has to offer. Where possible additional stops will be made to ensure your travelling comfort at all times.

Accommodation: We make use of mid-range typical African standard lodge accommodation. Accommodation is situated either in national parks, on the banks of a river, or in other places of interest. The accommodation will be a mix of lodges, chalets and tented camps with en-suite bathrooms. All of them have a private bathroom with a shower or bath and a toilet. Some properties are equipped with swimming pools and/or bar areas.

Participation: The Intimate Zimbabwe Lodge Safari is a non-participation safari.

Spending money: Clients are advised to bring enough money to cover the purchase of curios, tips, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, water and additional entertainment. US Dollars and South African Rand are the most practical and convenient currencies.

Local Payment: A local payment is required on your safari and will be collected by the guide on the day of departure. The local payment is part of the overall tour cost and is used to pay some of the day to day operational costs that are incurred while you are on the road. The operator try to prepay as many of the costs as possible however in some cases cash payment on arrival is the only option as some of the attractions you visit on safari only accept cash. Examples include park fees at most of the national parks, a few accommodations or camp sites and any local food markets you visit to stock up on fresh produce during the tour as well as local guides. Fuel purchases also need to be paid for in cash. The local payment also ensures that a portion of your tour cost actually goes directly to the countries you visit, thus benefiting local communities as well as contributing to conservation of the areas you visit. Essentially having a local payment means your tour price is a bit lower and give you a more inclusive experience!

Meals: Where included most breakfasts and dinners will be enjoyed in the restaurants of the various accommodation establishments, however on certain nights the guide will provide an authentic meal for the group, which will be enjoyed together in the evening, often around a camp fire. Please advise us of any special dietary requirements in advance.

First Aid: The guides are trained in basic first aid and the vehicle is equipped with a comprehensive medical aid kit. Preventative Malaria medication should be taken before the trip and throughout its duration. It is advisable to consult a doctor prior to departure.

Luggage: Maximum baggage allowance is 15kg. Luggage is limited, as an overloaded vehicle is a danger to both the clients and the guide. This does not include photographic equipment and a small daypack. Please bring a backpack or soft barrel bag, not a suitcase. Don't bring too much clothing, as there are washing opportunities along the way. Please adhere to the allowance specified as space for luggage is limited.

Clothing and other items: shorts, camera, walking shoes, light trousers/jeans, swimming costume, sandals, t- shirts, sun hat, windbreaker, warm clothes (May – August) long-sleeved shirt, sleeping bag, torch, & spare batteries, water bottle; pillow, UV protection, mosquito protection, towel

Insurance: It is compulsory for all travellers to have insurance covering their personal requirements, medical expenses and personal possessions. This is to be arranged before leaving your home country.

Visas: The onus is on the client to organize all visas required to visit Zimbabwe prior to departure. Please ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months after your scheduled departure date country of travel. If this is not the case, there is a danger of being turned away by the Immigration Service on arrival at the airport – assuming your airline has agreed to bring you and risk a fine in the first place. The Operator cannot be held liable for any necessary visas or other travel documents not held by the clients. Please assure that you have the required visas for the as many entries as per the itinerary.

General information of Zimbabwe This is a country blessed with great natural beauty, game reserves and mineral wealth. The diverse landscape changes from mountainous to wilderness to typical Bushveld. The country is also home to large animals and a large bird population. Zimbabwe is a country located in the southern part of the continent of Africa, between the Victoria Falls, Zambezi River, Kariba Dam and the Limpopo River. Zimbabwe is bordered by South Africa to the south, Botswana to the west, Zambia to the north and Mozambique to the east.

Botswana: The San were among the first human inhabitants of this region before the Setswana migrated southwards and slowly occupied the region from the 16th century onwards, until early in the 19th century. By mid- century missionaries arrived, including David Livingstone and Robert Moffatt, and by 1885 the territory was a British protectorate. Botswana gained its independence in 1966 and has since been the most stable democracy in Africa. The first president ruled from 1966 until his death in 1980, the second until 1994, having been re-elected twice, before resigning and the third from 1998. The country has a strong currency with one of the highest per capita incomes in Africa and maintains a neutral international political stance. It is heavily reliant on mining, especially diamonds and tourism and maintains close ties with its neighbour South Africa, an economic powerhouse for the region. Wildlife is abundant in Botswana and includes lion, giraffe, leopard, antelope, elephant, crocodile and ostriches. Botswana is semiarid and has an average annual (summer) rainfall of 640mm (about 25in) in the north to less than 230mm (less than 9in) in the Kalahari. Drought is therefore not uncommon and the vegetation is mostly savannah. Geographically Botswana is relatively flat, the average elevation of about 1,000m and can be viewed essentially as three major regions as follows:

Chobe National Park in the north, another outstanding wilderness area of enormous diversity – lion and elephant can be viewed from river cruises or 4x4 game drives.

Optional Activates in Victoria Falls: Below is a list of some of the most popular optional activities on offer in Victoria Falls. Pre-booking is recommended to avoid disappointment. The rates are per person and are quoted in US Dollars. All activities are subject to availability and may require a minimum amount of passengers to operate. Certain activities only operate at specific times of the year. Please contact our reservation office for further information. Should you wish to partake in an activity that is not listed below, we will gladly assist you with rates and reservations: 15 Minute Helicopter Flight $172.50 (excl. levies); 22 Minute Helicopter Flight $270.00 (excl. levies); Boma Dinner $65.00; Sunset Cruise $57.50; Dinner Cruise $86.50; Bungi Jump $171.00; Elephant Back Safari (half day) $172.50; Elephant Interaction with breakfast or lunch $149.50; Canoeing (full day) $172.50; Horse Back Safaris (novice) $92.00; Rafting (full day, low water) $172.50; Rafting (full day, high water) $161.00; Flying Fox (Cable Slide) $48.50; Gorge Swing $109.00; Zip Line $79.00; Tram & Bridge Champagne Sunset Tour $75.00; Moonlight Dinner Run (tram) $170.00 *Please note prices are subject to change

If you have any questions at all, please do not hesitate to contact us. Tel: ++ 264 61 309387 Fax: ++ 264 61 220885 Email – [email protected] Web - www.chameleonholidays.com Skype- chameleon.holidays Facebook: Chameleon Holidays & Travel