JWP08 Aqua Earth 2025

Botswana & Namibia
17th September to 1st October 2025
15 nights/16 days

Flights:
Arrival – Fly into Kasane International Airport in Botswana on 17 September 2025 (in the morning)
Departure – Fly out of Hosea Kutako International Airport in Windhoek on 1 October 2025 (late afternoon)
Group size: 9 + 3 BSST Host/Drivers + Unbounded crew (*Need a min of 6 people to run the trip)
SOLO FEMALE TRAVELLERS
Extra Option: Self Drive -please contact carla@blueskysociety.co.za

PRICE: US$5900 – SOLO FEMALE TRAVELLERS

**30% deposit is required to book a spot on the trip within 14 days of confirming. The balance is to be paid 90 days (1st July 2025) before the departure date. The price quoted is South African Rands. T&C Apply

Summary

Exciting, challenging, and awe-inspiring … the JWP Aqua Earth adventure is about taking the road less travelled and discovering untouched hidden gems of Africa.
This incredible voyage begins in the picturesque town of Kasane, along the Chobe River. From here, we’ll embark on a memorable day trip to Victoria Falls, also known as Mosi-Oa-Tunya, or ‘The Smoke that Thunders’, where we get up close and personal with the mist and thunderous roar created by this remarkable World Heritage Site. This is also where we will meet and spend time with the team from Elephants Without Borders (EWB).
After that, we’ll cross into Namibia and embark on the Trans Caprivi Adventure, focusing on a unique section of Northeastern Namibia. Appearing fairly inaccessible and inconspicuous at first, a closer look reveals what an incredible treasure trove of diverse, beautiful landscapes this area is. With rivers such as the Okavango and Nkasa Rupura (Namibia’s largest wetland), this region is home to many species of bird life, elephant herds and various endangered species, including the Roan and Red Lechwe antelope, African Wild Dog, Cape Buffalo and many more. Traversing the roads less travelled in the Caprivi, this part of the tour will take us on a treasure hunt, in search of all Namibia’s hidden gems.
Unbounded Namibia Safaris
We’ll be joined by the Unbounded Namibia Safaris team, enabling us to experience the Caprivi Region like never before. Safety and environmental sensitivity are always a top priority, and the Unbounded guides will assist with camping, logistics and meals.
The team leader, an experienced nature conservationist, will guide us through the adventure, staying in contact via radio and imparting his wealth of biological, cultural, and historic (and four-wheel drive) knowledge, at all times.

This self-drive expedition is incredibly exciting and often not a ‘walk in the park’, but safe off-road driving practices and techniques are a top priority, and the crew are fully equipped with knowledge and recovery equipment, should there be any off-road challenges.
While some of the overnight stops are rustic and a bit unusual, you will always be safe and the crew will spare no effort in ensuring you are comfortable, well fed and, most importantly, have a wonderful time!

Do YOU have any questions? We would love to hear from you.

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Highlights

Some of the extraordinary experiences you can look forward to as part of this group of eco-travellers include:

  • 16 days / 15 nights in Botswana and Namibia
    Conservation work – meeting the team from Elephants Without Borders (EWB)
    Organizational excellence – a meticulously planned African adventure with expertly managed logistics
    Day trip to Victoria Falls – to see the falls from the Zimbabwean side
    Nature walk with the bushman
    Khaudum National Park – 4×4 sand driving challenge
    Bwabwata National Park – wildlife
    Island River bar on the Okavango River
    Nkasa Rupura National Park – Namibia’s largest wetland
    Mudumu National Park – game drive
    Boat cruise on the Kwando River
    Excellent food
    Friendly crew

This trip promises remarkable wildlife encounters, meaningful conservation contributions, and unforgettable experiences in the heart of Africa.

Frequency: Bespoke once-off annual expedition
Fitness ratings: Moderate to fit
Tour features: Wildlife conservation, English-spoken, fundraising for Elephants Without Borders conservation, single occupancy ,Female Only
Beneficiary: EWB
Accommodation: Mostly camping – single occupancy (dome or rooftop tents)
Price range: Mid-range
Min: 4 eco-adventurers
Max: 9 eco-adventurers

*Please note that this Itinerary and Price may change slightly, but the expedition host will keep you updated if anything happens. Terms and conditions apply due to availability. Please note some activities are weather-dependent and we will do our best to accommodate them all in our itinerary. In some areas, there will be minimal or no Wi-Fi signal (we do love a digital detox!).

Do YOU have any questions? We would love to hear from you.

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Includes

  • Expedition leader/host and native South African – Carla Geyser
  • Unbounded crew – to guide us through the Caprivi section in Namibia
  • Basic accommodation – single in mostly dome and rooftop tents
  • All meals and water as shown in the itinerary
  • National park fees, tourism levy and VAT/taxes, where applicable
  • All activities are detailed in the itinerary
  • Transportation to and from the airport during the expedition only
  • All road transport between places
  • Fundraising for our chosen beneficiary: EWB (This money can either be paid by the person, or fundraised by the person)

Excludes

  • Any international flights and necessary transfers to get to the start/finish of the expedition in Kasane (Botswana) and end in Windhoek (Namibia)
  • Gratuities (*we recommend US$10 per guide or activity*)
  • Any visas and border costs for Botswana, Zimbabwe and Namibia
  • All alcoholic drinks, additional personal snacks and extra meals not on the itinerary
  • Any personal expenses
  • Comprehensive travel insurance (*compulsory*)
  • Extra nights’ accommodation (pre/post-expedition) in Kasane/Windhoek
  • Any extra activities not mentioned in the itinerary

Itinerary

  Date Day Country Details Comments
1 17-Sep-25 Wednesday Botswana FLY IN – Pick up guests at Kasane airport Chobe River cruise
2 18-Sep-25 Thursday Botswana Kasane Conservation Day: EWB

Chobe Game Drive

3 19-Sep-25 Friday Botswana / Zimbabwe Kasane Day trip to Victoria Falls + Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust visit
4 20-Sep-25 Saturday Botswana Drive Kasane – Nkasa Rupura National Park Border: Ngomo Border (Meet Unbounded team)
5 21-Sep-25 Sunday Namibia Nkasa Rupura NP
6 22-Sep-25 Monday Namibia Nkasa Rupura NP – Mubola
7 23-Sep-25 Tuesday Namibia Mubola Bwabwata game drive and boat trip
8 24-Sep-25 Wednesday Namibia Mubola – Divindu Bwabwata National Park and game drive
9 25-Sep-25 Thursday Namibia Divindu Game drive
10 26-Sep-25 Friday Namibia Divindu – Khaudum National Park Game drive
11 27-Sep-25 Saturday Namibia Khaudum National Park Game drive
12 28-Sep-25 Sunday Namibia Khaudum National Park Game drive
13 29-Sep-25 Monday Namibia Khaudum National Park Grashoek – Bushman experience
14 30-Sep-25 Tuesday Namibia Windhoek
15 01-Oct-25 Wednesday Namibia Transfer guests to the airport – FLY OUT

 

*Please note that the itinerary and price may change slightly, but the expedition host will keep you updated if anything happens. Terms and conditions apply due to availability. Please note some activities are weather-dependent and we will do our best to accommodate them all in our itinerary. In some areas, there will be minimal or no Wi-Fi signal (we do love a digital detox).

This itinerary provides a detailed plan for each day of the trip, including accommodations, meals, activities, and conservation efforts, ensuring a well-rounded and impactful eco-travel experience. The itinerary may change slightly but we will keep you posted.

DAY ONE TO THREE: Kasane

Guests to fly into Kasane Airport. They will be collected and transferred to our accommodation for the next three nights. Kasane is a town in the Northeastern corner of Botswana near the borders of Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe. It’s the gateway to Chobe National Park, known for the herds of elephants that often converge on the Chobe River in the dry season. Over the next few days: we will meet the team from Elephants Without Borders to hear about the work they do, enjoy a Chobe River sunset cruise and Game Drive, and take a day trip to the magnificent Victoria Falls.

Accommodation: Thebe River Safaris (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner – Full Board (FB)

DAY FOUR: Kasane to Nkasa Rupura

Today we depart Kasane and head to Namibia. We will meet the Unbounded crew at the Ngoma Border post on the Namibian side at 9am and make our way to our first camp in Namibia, where we will be staying for two nights. In the evening, whilst being treated to our first tasty dinner from the bush kitchen, the tour guide will explain what lies ahead over the next few days. The Unbounded crew will guide us, cook our meals and set up our camps for the next few days.

Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner – FB

DAY FIVE: Nkasa Rupura National Park

After an early start, with coffee and rusks, we will head off to enjoy the adventure that is Nkasa Rupura National Park. Lush marshes, dense savannah and high river reeds make travelling through this area a dream for 4×4 enthusiasts! During the dry winter months, large herds of elephants congregate on Nkasa and Rupara islands, but the park is awash with floodwater for most of the year. Game drives go through the edge of deep pools and close to rivers where crocodiles lie in wait. Nearby buffalo or elephants may also be crossing the river. For anyone who relishes the adventures of raw, real Africa … Nkasa Rupara National Park is the place to go! By the time we return from our afternoon game drive and sundowners, the fire will be burning, and we’ll be welcomed by the Unbounded crew with a lovely last dinner around the campfire.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner – FB

 

DAY SIX: Nkasa Rupura National Park to Mubola

We will start the day with a game drive in Mudumu National Park. Our campsite for the next two nights is situated near a major pathway for animals crossing the Kwando River and lies on the boundary of the Ngonga wildlife corridor. This means there are regular sightings of game coming to drink from the forest area outside the park. Mavunje has been known to harbour lions in the dry months, as well as wild dogs, leopards and hyenas. The campsite is located on the banks of the Kwando River with toilets and shower facilities. We will have the rest of the day at leisure around the campsite, allowing us to sort out our vehicles and catch up on some reading.
Accommodation: Mokulu Camp
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner – FB

DAY SEVEN 

After a relaxed day in camp, we will be up early to go for a morning game drive in Bwabwata National Park. We’ll get back to camp in time for a lovely brunch prepared by our Unbounded crew. Later that afternoon, we have another highlight – a sunset boat cruise on the Kwando River, which has abundant birdlife (including Lesser Jacana, Black Coucal, Wattled Crane and two species of Cisticolas amongst its special species). The park also features the Racket-tailed Roller, Western Banded Snake Eagle, Shelley’s Sunbird and Arnotts Chat, amongst others.
Accommodation: Mokulu Camp
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner- FB

 

DAY EIGHT: Mubola to Divindu (Okavango River)

Today we leave the Kwando Wildlife area and head towards the Okavango River. We will spend two nights on the banks of the river at another great campsite, overlooking the Popa Falls. When we arrive at camp, the Unbounded team will have the tents set up and already be preparing dinner. We have a chance to relive the last few days in the Kwando area at the lovely island bar while watching the sun set over the Okavango River. The campsite has toilets and shower facilities, utilising solar panels.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner – FB

 

DAT NINE: Okavango River
Our second day on the Okavango will see us entering the Bwabwata National Park on the river in the morning and we will have a leisurely game drive in the park.

Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner – FB

DAY TEN AND ELEVEN: Khaudum National Park

An early start to the day will get us on the road, fuelled and stocked up with supplies as we make our way towards the Khaudum National Park. We will stay here for three nights in two different camps. The park has around 12 artificial waterholes and two natural fountains, which can all be reached by vehicle. Most of the watering holes have hides, from where the game can be viewed safely, and we can enjoy lunch.
After an enjoyable day of driving the sand tracks of the Khaudum, we return to our campsite in the late afternoon. The campsite facilities are excellent, with hot showers and revamped ablutions. We can enjoy a sundowner while looking out over the Khaudum Omarumba, watching animal herds graze and listening to birdlife.
We will spend two nights at Khaudum camp, enjoying game drives from water hole to water hole in the morning and late afternoon, and relaxing in the magnificent campsite during the day. We will be on the lookout for big herds of elephants, roan, wildebeest, oryx and other wildlife. The Khaudum is also home to a large leopard population and endangered species such as African Wild Dog
Accommodation: Khaudum Camping
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner – FB

DAY TWELVE: Camp Sekereti
Our camp for the night will be Camp Sekereti. Although rustic, it has hot showers and flushable toilets. We will drive through the park in a southern direction, passing the main water wholes on the road to Sekereti camp. There are no fences around the camp so animals can move around freely here, and we are bound to hear all of the African night sounds. The Unbounded crew will have the camp set up by the time we arrive and will do everything they can to ensure your comfort and needs are met.
Accommodation: Sekereti Camp
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner – FB

DAY THIRTEEN: Bushman Community
After an early breakfast, we begin the incredible journey to the end of our trip, starting with making our way towards Tsumkwe. Here we will have the opportunity to fuel up our vehicles and then proceed to a Bushman community, where we will spend our last night together. As soon as we have settled in, we will enjoy a walk with a local bushman guide and family who will introduce us to all the different plants and insect life in the area – so we can see and experience the way they live and survive in the bush. The campsite is in a beautiful area surrounded by Manketti trees. Facilities are rustic with a long drop toilet and bucket showers.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner – FB

DAY FOURTEEN: KNP To Windhoek

After breakfast, we will sadly have to say goodbye to our Unbounded crew after a memorable trip together. Then we will head to Windhoek for our last evening and end off with a final dinner at Joe’s Beerhouse.
Accommodation: Capbon Guest House or similar
Meals: Breakfast, lunch,  & dinner (own account)

DAY FIFTEEN: Windhoek

Today we bid our farewells. Guests will be dropped off at the airport after breakfast by the Blue Sky Society team, to catch their flights home via South Africa.

Meals: Breakfast

*Please note that this Itinerary and prices may change slightly, but the expedition host will keep you updated if anything happens. Terms and conditions apply due to availability. Please note some activities are weather-dependent, and we will do our best to accommodate them all in our itinerary. In some areas, there will be minimal or no Wi-Fi signal (we do love a digital detox).

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