What if you could experience the tallest sand dunes of Namibia, the roaring wildlife of Botswana, and the mighty Victoria Falls all in one seamless journey through Southern Africa tour in 3 weeks?
In this blog, you’ll uncover a 3-week Southern Africa itinerary that takes you through the best of Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe, complete with travel highlights, seasonal tips, and guidance on which safari experiences suit your style best.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler craving the ultimate overland adventure, this guide will help you explore the wild beauty and soul of Southern Africa in 3 weeks from Cape Town to Victoria Falls.
Week 1: Cape Town to Namibia – City Life to Desert Dreams
Your journey begins in Cape Town, recently voted as the best city in the world. With its Table Mountain backdrop, buzzing food scene, and its coastal beauty, it’s the perfect place to ease into your African adventure. Add onto your adventure within one of Cape Town’ famous/ best vineyards or a scenic ride up Table Mountain.
From there, you head north into Namibia, where the landscapes grow more dramatic by the hour. Begin at Fish River Canyon, the second-largest canyon in the world, before moving into the surreal red dunes of Sossusvlei and the white salt pans of Deadvlei.
Next, you reach the coast at Swakopmund, a German-influenced town known for adventure activities like sandboarding and skydiving. Continue the journey to Etosha National Park, a wildlife haven home to big cats, black rhinos, elephants, and vast salt pans.
Travel Tip: Pack light layers. Namibia’s desert temperatures can swing from hot days to chilly nights.
Week 2: Botswana – Elephants, Waterways & Remote Safari Camps
Crossing into Botswana, you enter a landscape defined by water-based safaris and remote wilderness areas. The country is known for its wide open spaces and a sustainable tourism model that limits visitor numbers, allowing for quieter, more meaningful wildlife experiences.
Begin with the Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you glide through winding waterways in a mokoro (dugout canoe). Explore Moremi Game Reserve, a pristine ecosystem teeming with wildlife and birdlife.
Your next stop is Chobe National Park, famous for its enormous elephant herds and striking sunsets over the Chobe River. Expect small-group game drives, relaxed safari lodges, and that feeling of being off the grid.
Why It’s Special: Botswana’s high-value, low-volume model means fewer vehicles, more wildlife, and deeper wilderness immersion.
Week 3: Zimbabwe – Mighty Falls & Safari Farewell
Your final week brings you to Zimbabwe, home to the spectacular Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, known locally as “The Smoke That Thunders.”
Highlights include a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, guided visits to the falls, and optional adventures like helicopter flips, white-water rafting, or traditional cultural experiences.
End your journey in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe’s largest reserve. It’s known for its lion prides, painted dogs, and unique underground hideouts that let you see wildlife up close, right at the watering hole.
Travel Tip: Bring a wide-angle lens. Vic Falls and Hwange deliver unforgettable scenes worth capturing.
Why Travel This Route?
Here’s why this itinerary stands out from the rest when it comes to comfort, value, and variety.
– Experience four iconic countries in one seamless itinerary
– Explore a mix of natural wonders, wildlife, culture, and adventure
– Enjoy expert guides, hand-picked accommodations, and stress-free logistics
– Perfect for long-haul travellers who want to maximise their time in Africa
Take the Hassle Out of Planning: The Northern Experience Tour
This route is based on Jenman African Safaris’ Northern Experience — a 24-day, small-group guided tour designed for travellers who value comfort and convenience it includes flights, accommodation, and transport. Starting in Cape Town and ending in Victoria Falls, the journey covers some of Southern Africa’s most iconic highlights, with all logistics taken care of.
Explore the full itinerary here: Northern Experience • 24 Days
Best Time to Travel: Comparing the Seasons
Southern Africa has two main travel seasons, the dry winter months and the lush green summer. Each offers something different depending on your travel style and what you hope to experience.
May to October – The Dry Season
This is the most popular time to visit, especially for safari lovers.
Advantages:
- Wildlife viewing is at its best in parks like Etosha, Chobe, and Hwange, as animals gather around waterholes.
- Temperatures are cooler in the mornings and evenings, especially in Namibia’s desert regions.
- Clear skies make it ideal for photography, stargazing, and consistent travel conditions.
- Fewer mosquitoes and a lower malaria risk in areas like Botswana and Zimbabwe.
Considerations:
- As high season, some areas can get busy, and prices are generally higher.
- Landscapes tend to be drier and less green — particularly in Namibia and Zimbabwe.
- Dust can be a factor in desert regions and on gravel roads.
Best suited for:
Travellers prioritising wildlife sightings, first-time safari-goers, or those wanting predictable, dry weather.
November to April – The Green Season
Also known as the rainy season, this time of year transforms landscapes — and offers a quieter, more relaxed experience.
Advantages:
- Vegetation is lush and vibrant, especially in northern Namibia and around Victoria Falls.
- Fewer travellers mean more lodge availability and better value in many areas.
- Excellent for birdwatching, particularly in the Okavango Delta and Hwange National Park.
- February to May is the best time to see Victoria Falls at full volume.
Considerations:
- Afternoon showers are common, and some remote roads may become muddy or difficult to access.
- Wildlife may be harder to spot due to thicker vegetation.
- Hotter, more humid conditions can be expected in low-lying regions.
Best suited for:
Travellers who enjoy slower travel, vibrant scenery, and fewer crowds — or who are returning for a second safari and want a different perspective.
What to Choose?
If you want dry roads, easy wildlife sightings, and crisp mornings — go for the Dry Season (May–Oct).
If you prefer lush green landscapes, fewer people, and don’t mind a little rain — the Green Season (Nov–Apr) offers a more tranquil and scenic experience.
Learn more on how you can plan your next safari holiday with our seasonal guide.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been dreaming of Africa but unsure where to start this is it. A rich and diverse journey that offers city escapes, desert silence, river safaris, and roaring waterfalls, all in just three unforgettable weeks.This isn’t just a holiday. It’s a journey across the soul of Southern Africa.
