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This unforgettable 14-day journey through Southern Africa, led by expert guides, will take you to all the best spots to see endangered African wild dogs.
You'll experience Hwange National Park's rich wildlife, the Painted Dog Conservation Center and the iconic wild dog packs of Mana Pools National Park. Visit the majestic Victoria Falls, the continent's adventure capital. Explore predator-rich and diverse Linyanti Concession in the Chobe ecosystem on guided walks, game drives, canoe trips and scenic helicopter flights. Finally, conclude your adventure in the Khwai Community Area as you see diverse wildlife while searching for painted wolves and participate in cultural tours - ensuring a truly immersive African safari experience.
Explore the best wild dog spotting areas in Africa. Visit Hwange, Mana Pools, Victoria Falls, Linyanti, & Khwai. Experience guided bush walks, game drives, mokoro excursions and canoe trips - all in search of painted wolves
Overview
Length: 14 days / 13 nights
Group Size: Flexible – you tell us how many in your party
Location: Eastern Hwange National Park, Mana Pools National Park and Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, Linyanti Concession and Khwai community area in Botswana
Departure Dates: 01 May - 15 Nov
Lodges visited: Sable Valley Lodge, Stretch Ferreira's Goliath Tented Camp, Batonka Guest Lodge, Linyanti Bush Camp, and Khwai Lediba
Highlights
Thrilling game drives in search of African wild dogs and other wildlife such as elephants, buffalo, lions and leopards
Mokoro excursions along various waterways
Canoe rides on the Zambezi River
Scenic helicopter flip in Linyanti
Unique opportunity to experience wild dogs on foot during bush walks
Day trips into Hwange National Park
Exclusive use of a private safari vehicle in Hwange
Visit Hwange's Painted Dog Conservation Centre
Access to underground hides and treetop platforms for unique wildlife encounters
The iconic Victoria Falls - 'the smoke that thunders'
Prices and dates
2025 Rates - 14 days / 13 nights | |
MAY, 1-15 NOV | |
Per person sharing | US$ 13,735 |
Per single | US$ 17,615 |
JUN-OCT | |
Per person sharing | US$ 17,850 |
Per single | US$ 23,385 |
Lodges visited: Sable Valley Lodge, Stretch Ferreira Safaris, Batonka Guest Lodge, Linyanti Bush Camp, Khwai Lediba
Includes:
Flights:
Scheduled Flights:
Johannesburg to Victoria Falls
Maun to Johannesburg
Light Aircraft Flights:
Hwange to Mana Pools
Mana Pools to Victoria Falls
Kasane to Linyanti
Khwai to Maun
Helicopter Flights:
1 x 20 min scenic flight in Linyanti
Transfer from Linyanti to Khwai (20 min)
Transfers: All airport meet and greets, road, and intercamp transfers
Accommodation: Provided as per the itinerary
Meals: Provided as per the itinerary
Activities: Detailed activities included at each location
Beverages: Included except in Victoria Falls
Fees: All national park and conservation fees included
Laundry: Available at designated stops
Additional inclusions:
At Sable Valley:
Game drives and bush walks: Including day trips into Hwange National Park
Private vehicle: Exclusive use of a private safari vehicle
Visit to the Painted Wolf Center
Access to underground hide and treetop platform
At Stretch Safaris:
Activities: Bush walks, drives, and canoeing
Fishing: Available (limited rods & tackle)
At Batonka Guest Lodge: No activities included
At Linyanti Bush Camp:
Activities: Morning, afternoon & night game drives, walking safaris, and mokoro rides (subject to water levels)
Helicopter flight: Scenic 20-minute helicopter flight
At Khwai Lediba:
Activities: Game drives (morning, afternoon, and night), walking safaris, seasonal mokoro safaris, bird watching, sundowner drinks, cultural tour
24/7 Office support
Excludes:
International flights, unless otherwise stated
Airport departure tax, if applicable
Excess weight charges for luggage
Visa or entry permits
Telephone calls
Travel, cancellation, and medical insurance (recommended for safaris)
Breakfast, lunch and drinks while in Victoria Falls
Optional safari extensions and unspecified activities.
Personal expenses and any charges not specified in the itinerary
Tips and gratuities
Areas visited
Eastern Hwange National Park
Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe’s oldest and largest national park, situated on the fringes of the Kalahari Desert in the north-western corner of Zimbabwe, bordering Botswana. Hwange is renowned for its diverse wildlife, and game-viewing can be extremely rewarding. The park features the Big 5 (although rhinos are seldom seen) and large herds of buffaloes and elephants. Wild dogs, lions, and substantial elephant herds are frequently seen in the park. Visitors also enjoy regular sightings of cheetah, roan and sable antelope. Night drives can be very rewarding, with good sightings of aardvark, aardwolf and pangolin. Habitats include Kalahari scrub, teak and mopane woodlands, granite hills and salt pans – resulting in over 400 species of birds. Visitors can enjoy guided bush walks, game drives, and horse riding safaris, offering superb photographic opportunities. Hwange is also known for unique natural features like the seeps of Nehimba and Shakwanki, where animals dig for water.
While in Hwange, you will stay at Sable Valley Lodge, an intimate lodge with 11 traditional thatched rondavels and a central area with panoramic vistas of the Dete Vlei. Lounge beside the pool or marvel at wildlife sightings from the comfort of the central area, where elephants, buffalo, and rare sable antelope roam freely. This concession has good sightings of African Wild Dogs throughout the year. Zimbabwe is a stronghold for these endangered animals, boasting one of the largest populations.
READ MORE about Hwange here
Mana Pools National Park
Nestled in northern Zimbabwe, Mana Pools National Park is a lush and vibrant region sustained by the Zambezi River. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features diverse landscapes, including floodplains, forests, and iconic baobab trees, making it a haven for photographers. Recognised as an Important Birding Area, the park is one of Africa's top wildlife destinations, offering excellent opportunities to see wild dogs, elephants, lions, and leopards.
The road network covers only a small area of the park; the rest can only be explored on foot, by canoe or river cruises. Mana is the only national park in Africa with sizeable dangerous wildlife where you can walk without a guide.
While in Mana Pools, you will stay at Stretch Ferreira's Goliath Tented Camp. The camp hosts only 12 guests at a time in luxurious tents, and there is ample space and privacy in this shaded grove beside the Zambezi.
READ MORE about Mana Pools here
Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)
Victoria Falls is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the World's Seven Wonders. It’s also an adventure centre of note. You could stay for ages and enjoy a different activity every day, from bungee jumping, gorge swinging, and whitewater rafting to helicopter and microlight flights (a.k.a. the flight of angels), sunset boat and steam train cruises, horse riding, game drives, canoe trips, and so much more.
During your stay on the Zimbabwe side of Victoria Falls, walk across the bridge to visit the Zambian side, which offers an exhilarating walk across the ‘Knife-edge Bridge’, a close-up view of the ‘Boiling Pot’ (a scary whirlpool at the base of the falls) and, for the adventurous, a dip in the famous ‘Devil’s Pool‘. Just wandering the streets of this quaint town is a memorable experience as you negotiate for souvenirs, dodge warthogs (and elephants!), hang out with locals and sample a range of restaurants and bars.
While in Victoria Falls, you will stay at Batonka Guest Lodge. Just 2.1km (1.3 miles) from the Falls, Batonka is nestled within lush gardens, providing a serene retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the town yet conveniently close to all the main attractions.
Linyanti Concession
Linyanti lies in the remote north-western corner of Chobe National Park, bordered by the Linyanti River and Namibia to the north and linked to the Okavango Delta by the Selinda Spillway. Habitats include riverine forests along the Linyanti River, marshy reedbeds, lagoons and deciduous woodlands. Packs of wild dogs roam here, while lion, leopard, and cheetah sightings are common. The prime time to see wild dogs is during the dry winter months of May and June. During this period, water sources become scarce, wildlife gathers in concentrated areas, and wild dogs establish den sites, making sightings more frequent and thrilling.
Renowned for its diverse wildlife and luxurious safari experiences, the Linyanti's dry season attracts large herds of impala, blue wildebeest, giraffe, buffalo, and the world's highest concentration of elephants. Night drives reveal nocturnal creatures like civets, genets, honey badgers, and spring hares. This expansive, pristine wilderness offers an exclusive African adventure in a remote and remarkable habitat.
READ MORE about Linyanti and Chobe National Park here
You will stay at Linyanti Bush Camp while in Linyanti. This intimate retreat in a private concession features six luxury tents with en-suite bathrooms and private decks overlooking the marshland. The elevated communal area features a cosy lounge, bar, dining area, and a plunge pool with stunning views of the unique Linyanti landscape. Linyanti Bush Camp is perfectly positioned on the banks of the Linyanti Wetlands, a crucial water source during the dry months. This area teems with diverse wildlife. In addition to elephants and buffalo, the region is home to an array of other wildlife, including lions, leopards, and the elusive sitatunga antelope.
Khwai Community Area
The Khwai Community Area delivers an authentic wildlife encounter similar to the reserve, enhanced by its status as a private concession. This designation allows for enriching experiences like walking safaris and night drives, promising a deeper exploration of Botswana's remarkable wilderness. The Khwai area is characterised by the Khwai River, which winds through the area, creating a lush, verdant landscape. Operated by the local communities who take immense pride in their natural and cultural heritage, the Community Area is dotted with beautiful riverine forests along the riverbanks.
READ MORE about Khwai here
While in Khwai, you will stay at Khwai Lediba Bush Camp, which offers tented accommodations for up to 16 guests. Each of the six double rooms and one family unit features modern furnishings, an en suite bathroom with indoor and outdoor showers, and a private deck with luxurious bedding. The central camp includes a pool, a dining area with an open kitchen, and a bar with a sunken lounge, all surrounded by sycamore and leadwood trees offering stunning river views. The area around Khwai Lediba is renowned for its incredible wildlife sightings, including a good chance of spotting the elusive wild dog.
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Victoria Falls Airport, you will be met by your driver/guide and transferred to Sable Valley Lodge, bordering Hwange National Park. This scenic 2.5-hour journey will take you through breathtaking landscapes to your destination.
Sable Valley, where comfort meets wilderness, will serve as your base as you explore Hwange for the next couple of days:
Underground hide and treetop platform: Enjoy unique wildlife encounters at Sable Valley's underground hide and treetop platforms. Equipped with modern amenities like Wi-Fi, charging stations, an indoor fireplace, and a well-stocked mini-bar, the hide and tree platform seamlessly blends comfort and adventure. Spectacular 180-degree views of sunrise and sunset make for excellent photographic opportunities as resident elephants, buffalos, and sable antelope visit on a daily basis. The viewing platform above Sidule Hide, shaded by leafy teak trees and equipped with bean bags, offers stunning views of the sprawling vlei.
Private safari vehicle: Enjoy the flexibility and privacy of your own private safari vehicle, allowing for personalised wildlife viewing experiences. Early morning game drives leave at dawn, into Hwange National Park and a private concession. Afternoon drives leave at around 3pm and return at night, allowing you to spot wildlife with torches.
Wild dogs: Home to approximately 200 wild dogs in over 30 packs, Hwange boasts one of the largest concentrations of this species in Africa. Your stay also includes a morning or afternoon tour of the Painted Dog Conservation Centre. Learn about the conservation efforts, rehabilitation, and research aimed at protecting these fascinating creatures. There is no entry fee; donations are appreciated. The painted dog conservation project is one of the longest-running initiatives to preserve this endangered species.
Walking safaris: Embark on walking safaris with one of the professional resident guides, either from your game drive vehicle or starting at Sable Valley. Explore this private concession and discover flora and fauna up close. Experience the thrill of encountering some of the Big Five on foot, guided by expert knowledge.
Spend 3 nights at Sable Valley
This morning, enjoy a leisurely breakfast before packing up and checking out. Your adventure begins with a game drive transfer to the airstrip for your charter flight to Mana Pools National Park. You will be warmly welcomed and transferred to Stretch Ferreira's Goliath Tented Camp upon arrival.
Goliath Tented Camp offers an authentic glimpse into the heart of Mana Pools, from intimate wildlife encounters to captivating bush walks:
Morning game drives and bush walks: Rise with the sun and set off on exhilarating game drives and walks guided by Stretch Ferreira, a seasoned professional with over 35 years of guiding experience. Mana Pools is renowned for its rich wildlife.
Photographing wild dogs: Mana Pools was the setting for the wild dogs episode of David Attenborough’s ‘Dynasties’ wildlife series. It’s renowned for its exquisite lighting and backdrops, providing unique photographic opportunities. This park is one of the few places where you can experience wild dogs on foot under the supervision of an experienced guide. You stand a good chance of seeing wild dogs on foot and game drives, especially during the winter months between July and October.
Bush teas and lunches: Enjoy bush teas amidst the wilderness and savour delicious lunches overlooking the Zambezi River.
Afternoon siestas and canoe rides: Unwind with afternoon siestas or leisurely canoe rides on the river.
Sundowners and dinners: As the day draws to a close, toast to nature's splendour with sundowners along the riverbank, followed by enchanting dinners under the stars.
Spend 3 nights at Stretch Ferreira Safaris
Today, it is time to bid farewell to the amazing Mana Pools. After breakfast, you will check out and head to the airstrip for your charter flight to Victoria Falls.
Upon arrival at the airport, you will be met and greeted before transferring to Batonka Guest Lodge.
Batonka Guest Lodge offers true tranquillity and Zimbabwean hospitality in the town of Victoria Falls, a stone's throw away from the Falls:
Victoria Falls: Experience the majesty of one of the world's greatest natural wonders, just a short distance from the lodge.
Adventure activities: For thrill-seekers, there are exhilarating activities such as white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and zip-lining over the gorge.
Leisurely activities: Enjoy leisurely river cruises down the Zambezi River, providing a different perspective of the stunning landscape and wildlife.
Spend one night at Batonka Guest Lodge on a bed-and-breakfast basis
After a leisurely morning breakfast and pack-up, it will be time to check out from Batonka and meet your transfer driver for the transfer to Kasane International Airport. Here, you will embark on a fixed-wing flight to Linyanti Airstrip (35 min) and a helicopter flip from Linyanti Airstrip to Linyanti Bush Camp.
At Linyanti Bush Camp, you will Immerse yourself in the raw African wilderness of the Linyanti Concession in the Chobe ecosystem:
Wild dogs: The vast open spaces of northern Botswana offer great opportunities for wild dog sightings, serving as a sanctuary for several packs of wild dogs.
Game drives: Enjoy morning, afternoon, and night drives in open 4x4 vehicles led by experienced guides.
Walking safaris: Embark on guided bush walks (for guests 16 years and older), offering an up-close encounter with wildlife of all sizes - from insects to birds and elephants.
Mokoro excursions: Seasonal canoe trips through the waterways provide a peaceful and immersive wildlife experience.
Bird watching: Spectacular birding opportunities are on offer year-round, with various species to observe.
Scenic 20-minute helicopter flights: Seasonal flights offer a bird’s-eye view of the pristine wilderness.
A visit to a community project can be arranged.
Spend 3 nights at Linyanti Bush Camp
After a final morning activity and leisurely breakfast, it will be time to pack up your belongings. Your driver/guide will then take you to the airstrip, where you will board a helicopter for a 20-minute transfer from Linyanti to Khwai.
Upon arrival at the airstrip, you will be warmly welcomed and taken to Khwai Lediba, a luxury tented safari camp nestled along the banks of the Khwai River in Botswana's Khwai Concession.
Khwai Lediba is a safari paradise with stunning landscapes and rich wildlife:
Wild dogs and other predators: This scenic area offers regular sightings of wild dogs, lions, leopards, and wild dogs, ensuring a prolific and world-class safari experience. The combination of breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife makes the Khwai Concession a must-visit destination for any safari enthusiast.
Game drives: Explore the Khwai Concession on morning, afternoon, and night game drives, witnessing wild dogs, lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, and more in their natural habitat.
Walking safaris: Join guided walks after breakfast to get up close and personal with the wildlife and learn about the flora and fauna from experienced guides.
Mokoro safaris: Glide through the waterways in a traditional canoe, experiencing the delta's unique ecosystem (water level-dependant).
Bird watching: Discover a phenomenal array of bird species, perfect for beginners and avid birders.
Sundowner drinks: Enjoy drinks and snacks at a secluded spot during your afternoon game drive just before setting out on a night drive.
Cultural tour: Visit the nearby Khwai Village preschool and witness the positive impact of the community empowerment project.
Spend 3 nights at Khwai Lediba
As your wild dog safari draws to a close, enjoy one last morning activity followed by breakfast at Khwai Lediba. Afterwards, take a moment to pack up and bid farewell to the friendly staff, who have made your stay unforgettable.
Departure arrangements: Your driver/guide will escort you to the airstrip for your flight to Maun, where you will connect to your onward journey back to Johannesburg.
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