Signature: Botswana's Wildlife & the Okavango Delta - 8 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the minimum and maximum age for participants on this tour?

  The minimum age for this tour is 12 years, and the maximum age is 100 years.

• What is the maximum group size for this expedition?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 12 participants.

• What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  Accommodation includes one night in a hotel and six nights in safari lodges.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour.

• Are local flights within Botswana included in the cost of the trip?

  Yes, all internal flights are included in this trip. Please note there is a total weight limit of 20 kg per passenger (15 kg checked + 5 kg hand luggage) for these flights, and soft-sided bags are strongly recommended.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  Yes, for those travelling solo, there is a single supplement.

• What meals are included on this trip?

  The tour includes 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 7 dinners.

• What are the main highlights of this Botswana tour?

  The main highlights include meeting a National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project researcher for a talk on the delta, joining a wildlife biologist for a private presentation on human-elephant coexistence, extensive wildlife safari drives in Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, and spotting birds and animals from traditional mokoro canoes and motorized boats in the Okavango Delta.

• What modes of transportation are used during the expedition?

  Transportation includes private vehicles, planes (for internal flights), custom-engineered 7-seat 4x4 safari vehicles (capped at six explorers), boats, traditional mokoro dugout canoes, and walking excursions.

• Are there any optional activities available on this trip?

  No, there are no optional activities; all listed activities are included in the tour.

• Who will be leading the group on this expedition?

  The group will be led by a National Geographic Expedition Leader and a National Geographic Expedition Expert throughout the tour.

• What are the tipping guidelines for this trip?

  Gratuities are fully taken care of for all included meals, activities, and luggage porterage. Tipping for the Expedition Leader is not included, with a guideline of $10-$15 per person per day as a personal preference. Tipping is neither required nor expected for your National Geographic Expedition Expert.

• What are the currency and payment recommendations for this tour?

  In Botswana, you pay with Pula (BWP). It's strongly advised to bring ZAR or USD (notes newer than 2006) from home or exchange money before the tour. USD cash is required for any border visas. Visa/Plus system cards are most widely accepted, and it's recommended to carry both Visa and MasterCard. Credit cards are generally not widely accepted in many areas and may incur a 5-10% fee. ATMs can be unreliable due to power outages or running out of cash, so do not rely solely on cards.

• Is travel insurance mandatory for this trip?

  Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is a mandatory prerequisite, including full medical protection with a strict minimum of $200,000 USD for emergency rescue and medical repatriation. Coverage for personal liability, trip cancellation, and loss of luggage/personal belongings is also strongly advised.

• What general safety tips and guidelines should I follow during the trip?

  We recommend using a concealed neck wallet or money belt, leaving exceptional jewelry at home, and securing your luggage with a reliable lock. Consult your home government's international travel advisories. Your Expedition Leader may modify the itinerary for safety reasons. During unstructured time, explore in small groups, use local taxis at night, and avoid public demonstrations. Water-based activities should only be undertaken with professional guides.

• What is the National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project mentioned in the tour?

  During the tour, you will meet an inspiring researcher from the Nkashi Knowledge Centre for a presentation on the origins of the Okavango Delta and the ongoing efforts by the National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project to secure permanent, sustainable protection for this vital watershed and its rich biodiversity.

• What is Planeterra, and how does it relate to this tour?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps local communities earn income from tourism, supporting Indigenous people, empowering women, and protecting the environment. The tour operator is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of any optional 'Dollar-a-day Program' donation goes directly to Planeterra projects.