Compare Birding for Beginners: A Southern African Safari by Road Scholar vs Rovos Rail and River Slow Travel Safari by Ker & Downey Africa

Day 1

In Transit to Program

In Flight

Day 2

Arrive Johannesburg, Check-in, Welcome Dinner, Orientation

Johannesburg  D  Courtyard Hotel Eastgate

Activity note: Hotel check-in from 2:00 p.m.

Afternoon: After checking in at the hotel, take some time to freshen up and relax before our welcome dinner.

Dinner: At the hotel, our buffet welcome dinner will feature a starter, entrée, and side dishes. A welcome drink, coffee, tea, and bottled water included; other beverages available for purchase.

Evening: Orientation: The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. We are fortunate to have as our Group Leader a knowledgeable expert who will also serve as our primary lecturer. In addition, we will have the benefit of local experts who will join us at different sites. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Continue getting to know your fellow participants, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.

Day 3

Birding at Marievale

Johannesburg  B,L,D  Courtyard Hotel Eastgate

Activity note: Walking approx. 2 miles total throughout the day; paved walkways. Driving approx. 45 miles each way; about 1 hour.

Breakfast: At the hotel, the expansive buffet will feature a variety of hot and cold items such as cereals, fresh fruit, cold cuts, pastries, breakfast meats and vegetables, plus eggs and waffles cooked to order. Fruit juices, coffee, tea, water included.

Morning: Boarding our motorcoach, we’ll then transfer to the Marievale Bird Sanctuary east of Johannesburg, a provincial nature reserve that has been designated an Important Bird Area in South Africa. Marievale has been shaped by the gold mining activities in the area; much of the water that fills the floodplain has been pumped up from underground, creating a body of water that attracts an extraordinary number of birds. Habitats within the sanctuary include shallow open water, reedbeds, and grassland, so the variety of birds is impressive with some 280 species having been recorded in the area. Here, one can often see special birds like little bittern, slaty egrets, black and squacco herons, and handsome red-knobbed coots along with the usual aquatic species such as African rails, crakes, moorhens, cormorants and snipes. Additionally, it may well be the only place in the Gauteng region where it is relatively easy to see fulvous duck and South African shelduck. The wetland sanctuary does have a history of attracting extremely rare vagrants, with past sightings including buff-spotted flufftails, buff-breasted sandpiper, and a black-tailed godwit. With instruction from our Group Leader, we will walk around the varied environments in Marievale looking for birds while learning some tips on binocular use and birding basics. Our Group Leader will also give an on-site lecture on how to ID birds.

Lunch: In Marievale, we’ll find a nice spot to enjoy our boxed lunches with bottled water.

Afternoon: We’ll continue birding in Marievale. In the mid-afternoon, we will return to the hotel with some time to relax before dinner.

Dinner: Hotel buffet.

Evening: At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and flight tomorrow.

Day 4

Fly to Zambia, Victoria Falls from Zambian Side

Livingstone  B,D  The River Club

Activity note: Flight to Zambia approximately 2 hours. Getting on/off a motorcoach. Driving approx. 40 miles total throughout the day, with stops; about 1.5 hours total. Walking approx. 2 miles; about 2 hours at the falls. In order to access all of the viewpoints at Victoria Falls, one must go up and down around 150 stairs one way; the path may be slick due to the waterfall's mist, too. It is possible to still see the waterfall without climbing all of the stairs, but only from one viewpoint.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: After checking out of the hotel and transferring to the airport, we will board our flight to Livingstone, Zambia.

Lunch: Meal provided in flight.

Afternoon: We’ll arrive in Livingstone early in the afternoon and transfer to our lodge to check in. After settling into our rooms, we will join our Group Leader in the lodge lounge for a general overview of Zambia. Afterward, we will board a motorcoach and transfer to visit the famed Victoria Falls where the Zambezi River opens out into an extravaganza of roaring, spray-tumbled water, known to the locals as “Mosi oa Tunya” (the smoke that thunders). Few sights are as awe-inspiring as this, when the ground rumbles with the forces of the water. We will view the falls this afternoon from the Zambian side with accompanying commentary provided by our Group Leader, followed by a visit to the local, on-site crafts market. We’ll then return to the lodge.

Dinner: At the lodge, dinners will vary each night between plated choices from a select menu and a buffet with various selections. Each will have a starter, main meat or vegetarian entree with assorted vegetable or starch side dishes, and a dessert. Table wine and bottled water included; other beverages available for purchase.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 5

Birding Along the Zambezi River, Livingstone Museum

Livingstone  B,L,D  The River Club

Activity note: Driving approx. 20 miles; about 1 hour total. Early morning start for pre-breakfast birding boat ride; getting on/off the boat from a dock; ride is approx. 1.5 hours. Walking at the museum up to 1/2 mile; periods of standing. Walking approx. 1 mile throughout the day during group activities.

Breakfast: After our birding boat ride, the buffet at the lodge will consist of many bread, cereal, and fruit choices in addition to various hot English-style breakfast dishes cooked to order, plus fruit juice, coffee, tea, water.

Morning: In the early morning before breakfast, we will embark on a boat cruise on the Zambezi River for birding along the river banks. Interesting species sighted may include the half-collared kingfisher, Schalow’s turaco, red-chested flufftail and African skimmer. Light breakfast snacks will be served on board the boat, and a full breakfast will be available at the lodge upon our return. In the late morning after breakfast at the lodge, we will transfer to Livingstone and its colorful produce market for a field trip led by our Group Leader. Livingstone is a classic old colonial town of former Northern Rhodesia, and evidence of this fact can still be seen in some of its architecture. While here, we will also visit the Livingstone Museum, known for its archaeological and ethnographic displays. Most notable is the museum’s collection of artifacts that belonged to Dr. David Livingstone, the Scottish explorer and missionary who is credited with discovering Victoria Falls and helping to map much of the interior of Africa in the mid-1800s. We will return to the lodge in time for lunch.

Lunch: At the lodge, lunches will vary each day between plated choices from a select menu and a buffet with various selections. Each will have a starter, main meat or vegetarian entree with assorted vegetable or starch side dishes, and a dessert. Coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.

Afternoon: Free Time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. In the early evening, we will regather at the lodge with our Group Leader for a discussion about birds, including their origins, colors and variations, behaviors, and habitats.

Dinner: At the lodge.

Evening: At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.

Day 6

Victoria Falls from Zimbabwean Side, Game Drive

Upper Zambezi River  B,L,D  Imbabala Zambezi Safari Lodge

Activity note: Early morning start for pre-breakfast birding drive. Walking approx. 2 miles to see all waterfall viewpoints; paths may be slick from mist, mostly flat. Driving about 50 miles throughout the day; approx. 2 hours total, with stops for field trips and border crossings. Game drives are each approx. 3-4 hours.

Breakfast: Lodge buffet.

Morning: Before breakfast, our Group Leader will lead an early morning birding drive close to the lodge, within Mosi oa Tunya National Park; keep an eye out for the pied kingfisher, scimitar-billed hoopoe, white fronted lapwing and pearl spotted owl. We’ll then return to the lodge for breakfast. After breakfast, we will transfer via minibus over the border into Zimbabwe where we will see Victoria Falls from the Zimbabwean side. Since the waterfall spans the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, it is visible from both countries, but viewing from the Zimbabwean side is preferred as more of the waterfall falls on this side. While here, our Group Leader will show us how, through the millennia, the forces of nature have created this marvelous spectacle, Africa’s greatest waterfall. The rainforest around the falls also offers a great birding opportunity, with species such as Livingstone's turaco, carmine bee-eaters, rock pratincole, European storks, and Lilian's lovebird having been spotted. Afterwards, we will continue to Imbabala Lodge to settle in and enjoy the riverfront scenery.

Lunch: At the lodge, we’ll have a small buffet with starter salad, main entree with a side dish, and dessert. Local brand alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages included; other beverages available for purchase.

Afternoon: Over afternoon tea, our Group Leader will provide an overview of Zimbabwe. Then, we will embark on a late afternoon game drive in the private reserve surrounding the lodge. The 5,000 acre national park concession has nearly nine miles of private Zambezi River frontage. The reserve also borders the Chobe Forest Reserve, which is renowned for its massive elephant population. Game drives will be in open-air safari vehicles in the early mornings and late afternoons when the animals are most active; each vehicle has its own local safari expert. Each game drive lasts for approximately three hours, with a rest break half-way through. Game drives consist of moving slowly through the reserve searching for birds, predators and other animals, with commentary from our safari expert. In the early evening, we will return to the lodge.

Dinner: At the lodge, we’ll have a small buffet with starter salad, main entree with a side dish, and dessert. Local brand alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages included; other beverages available for purchase.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 7

Safari Activities, Journey of Migratory Birds

Upper Zambezi River  B,L,D  Imbabala Zambezi Safari Lodge

Activity note: Game drives typically last between 3 to 4 hours in the early mornings and late afternoons, when the animals are most active.

Breakfast: At the lodge, the buffet will feature various bread and cereal choices, fresh fruit, and hot items such as eggs and breakfast meats cooked to order. Fruit juice, coffee, tea, water included.

Morning: We will begin our morning with a game drive in the lodge’s private reserve. In addition to the multitude of mammals resident in the area, there is an immense amount of birdlife present, with over 400 species being recorded in Imbabala's private reserve. Bird species spotted may include: long-toed plover, western banded snake eagle and swamp boubou, as well as red-winged pratincole, purple heron, green-backed heron, and spotted thick-knee.

Lunch: Lodge buffet.

Afternoon: After some time to relax in the early afternoon, we’ll regroup over afternoon tea and our Group Leader will give a lecture on the journey of migratory birds, including methods and reasons for migration. Next, we will embark on a boat safari on the Zambezi River. Here we may have the chance to spot wildlife coming to drink and bathe in the river, as well as observe the multitude of birds that gather on the river’s banks. Species seen here can include the African spoonbill, African skimmer, squacco heron, water thick-knee, southern red bishop and all species of southern African bee-eaters.

Dinner: Lodge buffet.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 8

Chobe National Park, Botswana

Upper Zambezi River  B,L,D  Imbabala Zambezi Safari Lodge

Activity note: The drive to Chobe National Park is approx. 7 miles one way; less than 1 hour, including the border crossing. Game drive is approx. 3 hours. Getting on/off motorboat; ride is approx. 2 hours. Minimal walking throughout the day.

Breakfast: Lodge buffet.

Morning: A short drive will take us over the border into Botswana and Chobe National Park for a full-day field trip. After crossing the Botswana border, we will embark in open-air safari vehicles on a game drive within the park accompanied by a local safari expert. Chobe National Park remains one of Africa’s prime game-viewing areas. Here, one finds all of the “Big Five,” except for rhino. This is elephant country, home to the largest population of elephants in the world…many of these great grey giants can be seen at this time of year. (Note that seasonality makes a big difference in how much game one will see. If it’s dry, larger herds gather; if it has recently rained, the animals will be more dispersed.) The park forms part of Botswana’s northern-most border and is a contrast of desert aridity and flood plains. The Chobe region is best known for its vast magnificent river and floodplains filled with grazing herds of big game. Buffalo, sable, lion, leopard, hippo, hyena, and many species of antelope find safety in this huge national park. Chobe is one of Africa’s most pristine ecosystems and greatest wildlife refuges.

Lunch: At a lodge near Chobe National Park with a beautiful view over the Chobe River, we’ll enjoy an expansive buffet with numerous salad, main dish, and dessert choices, plus coffee, tea and water; other beverages available for purchase.

Afternoon: After a short walk to the dock, we’ll set out on our game-viewing boat safari, during which we will explore the Chobe River by motorboat, potentially coming face to face with the elephant, buffalo and other wildlife that gather on the banks of the river to drink and bathe. Immersed in this unique environment, we will view numerous birds including African jacana, sacred ibis, blue heron, goliath heron, saddle-billed storks, marabou storks and little egrets. After the boat safari, we will be driven back across the border to Imbabala Lodge.

Dinner: Lodge buffet.

Evening: At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.

Day 9

Hwange National Park, Elephant Behavior, Night Game Drive

Hwange National Park  B,L,D  Ivory Lodge

Activity note: The drive to Hwange National Park is approx. 150 miles; about 3.5 hours. Afternoon game drive is approx. 3 hours; night game drive is about 1 hour.

Breakfast: Lodge buffet.

Morning: Once checked out of the lodge, we will board our minibus and head south to Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe’s premier safari destination. Hwange is legendary for its wonderful array of wildlife, particularly the massive herds of elephant and buffalo. Birdlife in the area is also prolific, with more than 400 species found, some of which frequent teak woodlands in addition to those that are more typical of the drier Kalahari climate. In the summer months, large antelope herds migrate onto the plains, closely followed by large predators. Shallow pans are spread throughout the park, around which wildlife congregates, making for excellent and reliable game viewing. Elephant, Cape buffalo, sable, roan, southern giraffe, blue wildebeest, impala and sometimes even gemsbok (oryx) can be seen here. In addition, this park is also one of the best for spotting predators; lion, leopard, wild dog and cheetah are regularly sighted, along with the smaller African wildcat, serval, honey badger, civet and spotted hyena. Upon arrival at the Ivory Lodge, we’ll check into our rooms and settle in.

Lunch: At the lodge, we’ll have a small buffet with a starter, main dish, side dish, and dessert, plus local brand alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages included; other beverages available for purchase.

Afternoon: We’ll gather at the lodge with our Group Leader for an informative lecture on elephant social structure, behavior and culling issues. Then, during our afternoon game drive we will search for a variety of bird species including the Kalahari robin, lilac-breasted roller, ground hornbill, eastern red-footed kestrel, Lanner falcon, hobby falcon, and the Steppe eagle, which migrates to southern Africa all the way from the Central Asian steppes.

Dinner: At the lodge, we’ll have a plated meal featuring a salad or starter, main course with side, and dessert, plus local brand alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages included; other beverages available for purchase.

Evening: Following dinner, we’ll set out on a short night game drive with a local safari expert in search of the nocturnal species active in the area. Some species we could spot may include civet, genet, bushbaby, pearl spotted owl, African scops owl, and Verreaux’s eagle-owl.

Day 10

Safari Game Drives, Bush Walk

Hwange National Park  B,BR,D  Ivory Lodge

Activity note: Walking approx. 1 mile on the morning bush walk; about 1 hour; uneven, sandy terrain. Early morning and afternoon game drives are approx. 3 to 4 hours each; evening game drive is about 1 hour.

Breakfast: Early at the lodge before our game drive, we’ll have a light buffet with cold cereal, fresh fruit and rusks, plus coffee, tea, water.

Morning: On an early morning game drive with a local safari expert, we will search for the varied wildlife in the area before returning to camp.

Brunch: At the lodge, a small buffet will consist of hot and cold breakfast and lunch dishes. Local brand alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages included; other beverages available for purchase.

Afternoon: In the company of a safari specialist, we’ll set out from the lodge for a bush walk where we may encounter wildlife and birdlife, as well as explore the little surprises in the bush. You may wish to take some time on your own to rest during the heat of the day and enjoy the lodge's amenities. The camp’s viewing “hide” provides a great place to safely observe animals coming to drink from the waterhole in the heat of the day. Following afternoon tea, we will embark on a late afternoon game drive. Keep an eye out for the Whalberg's eagle, swallow-tailed bee-eater, crested guinea fowl and Bradfield's hornbill.

Dinner: Lodge plated meal.

Evening: We’ll then set out on a short night game drive in search of the nocturnal species active in the area.

Day 11

Game Drives, Lion Social Structure & Behavior

Hwange National Park  B,BR,D  Ivory Lodge

Activity note: Walking approx. 1 mile on the morning bush walk; about 1 hour; uneven, sandy terrain. Early morning and afternoon game drives are approx. 3 to 4 hours each; evening game drive is about 1 hour.

Breakfast: Light lodge buffet.

Morning: On our morning game drive, we will search for birds and wildlife that may have eluded us thus far. Then, we will return to camp.

Brunch: Lodge buffet.

Afternoon: After a bush walk around the area led by a safari specialist, we’ll have some relaxation time to escape the heat of the day. Mid-afternoon, we will regroup for a tea-time lecture given by our Group Leader, which will focus on the social structure and behavior of lions. Afterwards, we will depart on our final afternoon game drive to search for species such as the Steppe buzzard, harrier hawk, Cape vulture and secretary bird.

Dinner: Lodge plated meal.

Evening: Following dinner, we’ll set out for a short night game drive to look for nocturnal species. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.

Day 12

To Victoria Falls, Local Village Visit

Victoria Falls  B,L,D  A'Zambezi River Lodge

Activity note: Driving approx. 110 miles to Victoria Falls; about 2.5 hours. Walking approx. 1/2 mile in the village; uneven terrain; periods of standing.

Breakfast: Early lodge buffet.

Morning: We will embark on our last early morning game drive of the program in search of animals we haven’t seen yet. After returning to the lodge in the late morning, we will transfer via minibus from Hwange to the restaurant in Victoria Falls.

Lunch: At a local restaurant with scenic views of Victoria Falls, we’ll enjoy a 3-course plated meal from a select menu, with bottled water; other beverages available for purchase.

Afternoon: From lunch, we’ll be driven directly to Intabayengwe Village, a nearby traditional village. Here, we will have the chance to meet members of the community and see how they live. We will help the local women prepare a traditional meal and see what role women play in the village. The visit will also take us to a local, illegal “moonshiner’s” distillation facility where we will learn about this underground industry. Visits to some of the homes and the local pre-school will round out our afternoon. From the village, we will transfer to our lodge for check-in in the late afternoon.

Dinner: At the lodge, we’ll enjoy a buffet meal featuring a starter, choice of main dishes, a variety of side dishes, and desserts. Coffee, tea, bottled water included; other beverages available for purchase.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 13

Elephant Interaction, Livingstone Class, Free Time

Victoria Falls  B,D  A'Zambezi River Lodge

Activity note: Early start and transfer to the elephant interaction location for our pre-breakfast field trip; approx. 10 miles; about 1/2 hour each way. Walking approx. 1 mile before breakfast at elephant interaction site; flat, uneven, dirt pathways.

Breakfast: After our early morning field trip at the elephant interaction site, we’ll enjoy an on-site plated breakfast featuring eggs, breakfast meats, sides, and toast, plus fruit juices, coffee, tea, water.

Morning: With an early start, we’ll transfer by motorcoach to a nearby location for our elephant interaction. While here, we will have an opportunity to learn more about the past, present and future of elephant conservation from local experts while also gaining insight into these gentle giants through up-close, personal time with the resident elephants. In the company of our local experts, we will be escorted on a walk alongside the elephants through the pristine bush and valley of the Masui River. We’ll keep our eyes peeled because there is also excellent birding on site with over 50 species to be sighted, which can include the black eagle, Taita falcon and thick billed weaver. Upon conclusion of our elephant interaction, we will enjoy breakfast on site before returning to the lodge, where we will have time to rest and freshen-up before a mid-morning class. After regrouping over coffee, tea and refreshments at the lodge, a noted local historian will join us to discuss the story of Scottish explorer Dr. David Livingstone, who first visited Victoria Falls over 150 years ago, and whose journeys laid the groundwork for the Colonial era that followed.

Lunch: This meal has been excluded from the program cost and will be on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Afternoon: Free Time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most in the town of Victoria Falls. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions and will also lead a birding walk in the area for those of us who are interested. In the early evening, we will regroup at the lodge and be driven a short distance to our dinner location.

Dinner: Our farewell dinner will be taken at a neighboring lodge and consist of a 3-course, set menu meal including bottled water, coffee, tea; additional beverages available for purchase.

Evening: At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and departures tomorrow.

Day 14

Fly to Johannesburg, Program Concludes

In Flight  B

Activity note: Driving approx. 15 miles to Victoria Falls Airport; about 1/2 hour. Flight from Victoria Falls to Johannesburg is approx. 1.5 hours.

Breakfast: At the lodge, we’ll enjoy an expansive breakfast buffet with many choices including cereals, fruit, breads, cold meats and cheeses, and hot items including eggs, breakfast meats, plus coffee, tea, fruit juice, and water.

Morning: We’ll then have some time to pack before our mid-morning transfer to the Victoria Falls airport to board a commercial flight to Johannesburg.

Lunch: In flight meal.

Afternoon: We’ll arrive in Johannesburg in the mid-afternoon. Our program concludes upon arrival. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!

Day 15

In Transit From Program

In Flight

Morning: Arrive home.

Day 01 – 04 : Arrive Cape Town, South Africa

Your slow travel safari starts on arrival at Cape Town International Airport. A Ker & Downey® Africa representative will welcome you and accompany you to the Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel in a private vehicle. An oasis in the heart of Cape Town, this iconic pink hotel is set against the backdrop of Table Mountain and makes for the perfect base to explore the city at a leisurely pace. During your stay you will have the opportunity to discover the Cape Floral Kingdom on a guided sunset walk on Table Mountain, as well as a half day excursion  through the Cape Winelands.

Where you’ll stay: Belmond Mount Nelson

Belmond Mount Nelson is located in the heart of Cape Town with easy access to the city’s top sights. With Table Mountain as a backdrop, this iconic blush hotel is a tranquil oasis and guests can enjoy access to the Librisa Spa and hair salon, fitness centre, two swimming pools, tennis courts and nine-acre lush garden.

Mount Nelson Interior Deluxe Suite

Mount Nelson Gardens

Belmond Mount Nelson Tea Lounge

Mount Nelson Pool

Mount Nelson Lobby

Experiences:

Discover Cape Town’s unique history before getting in touch with nature on a sunset walk through Table Mountain National Park. Guests can also enjoy leisure time at the hotel’s swimming pool, savour afternoon tea in the lounge or sip on a refreshing cocktail at the Planet Bar overlooking the property’s gardens.

Fynbos Bird Close Up

Mount Nelson Food

Winelands Tour

Mount Nelson Spa

Mount Nelson Pool Aerial View

Continue your trip

Day 05 : Transfer Pretoria

After a fresh breakfast at the hotel, your driver will meet you to transfer you to Cape Town International Airport for your scheduled flight to OR Tambo Airport in Johannesburg. From here, you can enjoy a private transfer to the luxurious Castello Di Monte in Pretoria. The Tuscan style property is surrounded by landscaped gardens and boasts panoramic views of the city. Unwind after your travels with an in-room wellness treatment or relax by the Roman style swimming pool with a refreshing drink from the bar.

Where you’ll stay: Castello Di Monte

Located in the heart of the city, Castello Di Monte is the perfect urban oasis for your overnight stay in Pretoria. The Tuscan-style estate features an outdoor pool, manicured gardens and panoramic views of the city.

Castello Di Monte Suite

Catello Di Monte Pool Area

Day 06 – 08 : Train Icon

Transfer Rovos Rail Station

Check-in Rovos Rail

Today, your driver will accompany you to the Rovos Rail Station in Pretoria. Step back in time as you board the luxurious Rovos Rail for their bespoke 4 day journey north to Zimbabwe. The ultimate slow travel experience, sit back and relax as the train ambles from Pretoria, through Warmbaths, Nylstroom and the Tropic of Capricorn before traversing Hwange National Park to your final destination, Victoria Falls. Life on board is effortless and you can enjoy the charm of a bygone era while mingling in the lounge car, watching the scenery unfold with the wind in your hair from the open-air observation deck and sipping on bubbles before a culinary experience in the dining car. In Hwange, you can enjoy an afternoon game drive at The Hide, home to herds of elephant, buffalo and following close behind, lion.

Where you’ll stay: Rovos Rail

Recapture the atmosphere of a bygone era aboard the Rovos Rail, a reconditioned train. The train features luxurious suites, an old world dining car and observation car – the perfect spot to watch the world go by.

Couple Walking Near The Rovos Rail Luxury Train

Rovos Rail Train Interior

Rovos Rail High Tea Interior

Rovos Rail Observation Car

Rovos Rail Train Exterior

Rovos Rail Dining Car

Experiences:

Enjoy the day unfold at a leisurely pace, soak up the ever-changing scenery from the observation car and relish in world-class culinary experiences at the dining car. Guests will also have the opportunity to enjoy a safari.

the_hide_september-282

The Hide Bush Dining

Rovos Rail and River Slow Train High Tea

Rovos Rail and River Slow Train Dining

Day 09 : Train Icon

Arrive Victoria Falls Station

Today, marks the end of your luxury train safari. As the train pulls into Victoria Falls Station, you will meet a representative who will accompany you to the historic Victoria Falls Hotel. Located in Victoria Falls National Park and within walking distance of the Falls, the 1904 Edwardian-style hotel is the perfect base for your night in Zimbabwe. In the afternoon, follow the direct footpath to the Falls or enjoy a traditional afternoon high tea served on Stanley’s Terrace with spectacular views of the spray from the Falls below.

Where you’ll stay: Victoria Falls Hotel

Built in 1904, the historic Victoria Falls Hotel exudes an old world charm and is ideally located a short 10 minute walk from the Falls. The hotel is renowned for impeccable service, luxurious accommodation and exceptional facilities.

Victoria Falls Hotel Exterior View

Victoria Falls Hotel Swimming Pool

Victoria Falls Hotel Suite

Victoria Falls Hotel Entrance

Victoria Falls Hotel Lounge

Experiences:

The highlight of your stay will be meandering through the manicured garden to Victoria Falls. Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s Heritage Tour,  tea overlooking the Victoria Falls bridge and relaxing beauty treatments.

Victoria Falls Hotel Afternoon Tea

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and Zambia

Rovos Rail Travel Safari Fine Dining

Victoria Falls Garden

Day 10 – eleven

Boat Cruise Icon

Transfer Chobe River

Board Zambezi Queen

Your slow travel safari continues on the luxurious Zambezi Queen, a world-class floating hotel designed with all the creature comforts for the discerning traveler. Your guide will meet you at the Victoria Falls Hotel and transfer you from Kasane through to the Namibian banks of the Chobe River. Here, you will enjoy two nights on board the Zambezi Queen as it glides by wallowing hippos and elephants drinking from the shores. There are an array of water-based safari activities on offer including tiger fishing, photographic safari expeditions, water-based birding excursion and guided river safaris. After adventurous days exploring the banks of the Chobe, return to your floating hotel and relax in the spacious lounges, enjoy the pool on board and world-class dining.

Where you’ll stay : Zambezi Queen

An ever-elegant floating hotel, the Zambezi Queen features 14 pristine suites, a swimming pool and luxurious dining area. Guests can enjoy their very own front facing private deck – the perfect vantage point to watch the landscape unfold with plenty of big game viewing opportunities.

Zambezi queen sustainable safaris

Zambezi Queen Suite

Zambezi Queen Bar

Zambezi Queen-lounge_area_2

Zambezi Queen-lounge_area_3

Experiences:

Your time onboard the Zambezi Queen can be designed according to your mood. Join your guide on a unique boat safari, fishing expedition or work on your photography skills. Land based activities include visiting Africa’s most ancient baobab trees and a tour of the local village.

Zambezi Queen Photo Safari

Zambezi queen sustainable safaris experience

Zambezi Queen Fishing

Zambezi Queen River Safari

Village Visit Wooden Sculptor

Zambezi Queen Sunset Drinks

Day 12: Departure

Transfer to Kasane International Airport

As the Zambezi Queen returns to the riverbank of the Chobe River, your guide will accompany you through the Namibia Immigration Office and transfer you to Kasane International Airport for your onward journey home.