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The journey
A 4-day adventure combining the Okavango Panhandle with the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Tsodilo Hills. Explore deep river channels by guided boat cruise or traditional mokoro, enjoy specialized bird-watching and tiger fishing, and discover ancient rock art with local San Bushman guides. The journey contrasts the permanent freshwaters of the Okavango River with the dramatic quartz monoliths of the Kalahari. It also includes an immersive cultural sleep-out experience at the foot of the hills.
At a glance
Day by day
Arrive in Maun and transfer to a riverside lodge in the Panhandle, such as Nxamaseri Island Lodge.
Spend your time on guided boat cruises or traditional mokoro (dugout canoe) excursions along papyrus-lined channels.
Enjoy specialized bird-watching, including the chance to look for Pel's fishing owl or African skimmers, as well as tiger fishing.
Spend your time on guided boat cruises or traditional mokoro (dugout canoe) excursions along papyrus-lined channels.
Enjoy specialized bird-watching, including the chance to look for Pel's fishing owl or African skimmers, as well as tiger fishing.
Spend your time on guided boat cruises or traditional mokoro (dugout canoe) excursions along papyrus-lined channels.
Enjoy specialized bird-watching, including the chance to look for Pel's fishing owl or African skimmers, as well as tiger fishing.
Take a sunrise hike or optional trail ascent among the quartz rocks of the hills.
Conclude the adventure with a scenic transfer back to the Panhandle lodge or a connecting flight back to Maun.
The route
The fine print
Accommodation
2 nights at a Panhandle lodge/camp: riverside en-suite tented rooms or lodge chalets (e.g., Nxamaseri Island Lodge or similar standard).
1 night at Tsodilo Hills Sleep-Out: stays in specialized, modern canvas pods or dome tents featuring open-air or en-suite facilities right at the foot of the hills.
Scheduled Activities
Guided rock art excursions: expert interpretation of the ancient paintings by a local San Bushman guide and host.
River safaris: guided motorized boat cruises and traditional mokoro (dugout canoe) trips along the Okavango Panhandle channels.
Nature walks & hikes: guided tracking walks and sunrise trail hikes around the Tsodilo monoliths.
Transportation & Fees
All ground transfers: road travel between Maun and the Okavango Panhandle/Tsodilo Hills using an open or closed 4x4 safari vehicle.
Park & community fees: all national park entry permits, conservation levies, and local community-trust camping fees.
Food & Drinks
All meals: full-board catering including daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner cooked by a professional camp chef.
Beverages: teas, coffees, bottled water, soft drinks, and select local wines or beers.
International flights: you must purchase your own long-haul airfare into Maun (MUB).
Travel & medical insurance: comprehensive medical evacuation and trip cancellation coverage are mandatory but not included.
Premium beverages: imported champagnes, rare spirits, and premium cellar wines incur an extra charge.
Personal trail gear: hydration packs, specialized trail shoes, and specific endurance nutrition (like energy gels) must be brought by the runner.
Staff gratuities: discretionary tips for your running guides, camp staff, trackers, and medical team are handled out of pocket.
Neutral Tones: Pack earth-coloured clothing (khaki, beige, olive) to blend into the bush. Avoid bright colours, pure white, and camouflage patterns.
Warm Layers: Temperatures drop rapidly at night in the Kalahari. Pack a fleece, a windproof jacket, a beanie, and a scarf for the evening.
Long Sleeves & Trousers: Wear lightweight long pants and long-sleeved shirts in the evening to protect against insects and brush.
Worn-In Hiking Shoes: Bring sturdy, comfortable hiking boots or trail shoes with good grip for navigating the rocky terrain of the hills.
Wide-Brimmed Hat: Critical for shielding your face and neck during day treks.
High-SPF Sunscreen: The sun can be intense, even during cooler months.
Insect Repellent: Bring a high-quality spray or cream containing DEET or Picaridin.
Polarised Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the strong African glare.
Health & Medical Requirements
Malaria Protection: The Okavango Panhandle is a high-risk malaria zone, especially near the water. Consult your doctor before traveling to secure prescription malaria prophylactics.
Required Vaccinations: Routine vaccines should be up to date. If you are entering Botswana from a country with risk of Yellow Fever virus transmission, a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is legally required for entry.
Hydration: The Kalahari climate is incredibly dry and hot. You must drink filtered or bottled water, which is provided continuously by your camp.
Strict Luggage Limitations
Soft-Sided Bags Only: You must pack your gear in soft, duffel-style bags without rigid frames or pull-along wheels. Hard suitcases will not fit into the 4x4 safari vehicles or light aircraft cargo pods.
Weight Limits: If your package includes a light aircraft charter flight, you are strictly limited to 15 kg (33 lbs) total weight, including your camera gear and hand luggage.
Logistics
Your 4 days finish where they began, in Maun.
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