Namibia – Botswana Round Trip

20 Days / 19 Nights
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Tour Overview

Destinations Icon
  • Windhoek
  • Gobabis
  • Ghanzi
  • Maun
  • Nata
  • Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
  • Chobe, Botswana
  • Zambezi Region
  • Kavango
  • Otavi Mountain Region
  • Etosha East
  • Etosha South
  • Waterberg
  • Windhoek

The Nam-Bots Round, 20-day Self-Drive tour, is a circular route starting and ending in Windhoek, and is a combination of the focal highlights of Botswana, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and central and northern Namibia. The tour allows you to travel through three countries, but at the same time picking-up and dropping-off the vehicle in the same location. With a combination of vast variety of landscapes, a wide variety of wildlife, birding and cultures, this tour has a lot to offer.

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Destination Nights Driving Time Distance
Windhoek 1 +/- 45 Minutes 50 km
Gobabis 1 +/- 2.5 Hours 95 km
Ghanzi 1 +/- 5.5-6 Hours 505 km
Maun 2 +/- 3-4 Hours 310 km
Nata 1 +/- 4 Hours 300 km
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe 2 +/- 4-5 Hours 320 km
Chobe, Botswana 2 +/- 2 Hours 85 km
Zambezi Region 2 +/- 3-4 Hours 250 km
Kavango 1 +/- 4.5-5 Hours 450 km
Otavi Mountain Region 1 +/- 3-4 Hours 360 km
Etosha East 2 +/- 2 Hours 170 km
Etosha South 1 +/- 3.5-6 Hours 200 km
Waterberg 1 +/- 2-3 Hours 250 km
Windhoek 1 +- 3 Hours 250 km
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Hippos partially submerged in a calm river water during sunset.

Tour Highlights

  • Explore three incredible countries – Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe – on one unforgettable circular self-drive adventure.

  • Experience the breathtaking Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

  • Discover the wildlife-rich Chobe National Park, famous for its enormous elephant herds and scenic boat cruises.

  • Visit the spectacular Makgadikgadi Pans and the renowned Nata Bird Sanctuary, home to seasonal flamingos and pelicans.

  • Experience the lush Bwabwata National Park, Kavango and Zambezi Regions, where rivers, wildlife and diverse cultures create a striking contrast to Namibia's deserts.

  • Enjoy unforgettable self-drive safaris through Etosha National Park, one of Africa's premier wildlife destinations.

  • Learn about the traditions of the San Bushmen in Botswana's Kalahari region.

  • Explore the scenic Otavi Mountain Region, known for its limestone mountains, underground lakes and the famous Hoba Meteorite.

  • Enjoy the convenience of a circular self-drive route, collecting and returning your vehicle in Windhoek while experiencing the very best of Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrival in Namibia, Windhoek

Rustic outdoor dining area at Joe's Beerhouse in Windhoek featuring thatched roofs, tropical palms, and a koi pond.
Historic Christuskirche Lutheran church framed by palm trees against a clear blue sky in Windhoek, Namibia.
Local craft market stall in Windhoek, Namibia, displaying handmade African jewelry, wooden carvings, and traditional souvenirs.
Male Greater Kudu with spiral horns standing in the middle of a gravel road on a Namibian safari.
Independence Memorial Museum in Windhoek featuring the Sam Nujoma statue and grand outdoor stone staircase.
HKI Airport to Windhoek:
Est. driving time: +/- 45 Minutes
Est. total km: 50 km
Situated in Central Namibia, the cosmopolitan city of Windhoek functions as the capital of the country. It is home to an international airport and a plethora of restaurants, shops, entertainment venues and accommodation options. The city is clean, safe and well-organised, with a colonial legacy that is reflected in its many German eateries and shops, and the widespread use of the German language. Windhoek has an interesting mix of historical architecture and modern buildings, many of which are worth a look, including the Alte Feste an old fort, the 1896 Christuskirche Christ Church, and the more contemporary Supreme Court.

Day Itinerary

Welcome to Namibia. Upon arrival at Windhoek International Airport, a Melbic driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel or our office in Windhoek. Vehicle handover depends on your arrival time, airport formalities, and transfer duration. 
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Day 2: Central Namibia

Tranquil savanna waterhole surrounded by golden grass and acacia trees during a Namibian safari
Small bat-eared fox standing in dry savanna grass on a Namibian wildlife safari
Large glowing sun setting behind a mountain silhouette over vast golden desert plains
Secretarybird with long legs and crest feathers walking across dry open plains in Namibia
Travelers relaxing around a campfire under a brilliant Milky Way night sky at a Namibian safari camp
Windhoek to Gobabis:
Est. driving time: +/- 2.5 Hours
Est. total km: 95 km
The Gobabis District serves as the gateway between Namibia and Botswana, making it a popular stop for travellers crossing the Trans-Kalahari Highway. While often viewed as a pass-through destination, the region offers a peaceful escape with vast open savannahs, traditional cattle ranches and warm Namibian hospitality. Visitors can enjoy spectacular sunsets, abundant birdlife and comfortable guest farms and lodges, providing the perfect opportunity to relax and experience the authentic charm of rural Namibia before continuing their journey.

Day Itinerary

For your first morning in Namibia, enjoy a relaxed morning in Windhoek. Today you will travel to a destination of pure nature, take in this very tranquil and relaxing place. Animals that live in the region include common warthogs, jackals, chacma baboons, and several species of antelope (including the eland, gemsbok, springbok, hartebeest, steenbok and kudu), and many species of birds and reptiles.
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Day 3: Ghanzi

Open African savannah landscape with dry grass, green shrubs, and acacia trees under a clear blue sky.
A herd of springbok antelopes grazing in the tall dry grass of the African plains.
San Bushmen in traditional leather attire standing outdoors during a cultural heritage experience.
Vibrant golden and orange sunset in the African bush with silhouetted acacia trees.
A large male eland antelope standing in dry African savannah vegetation during a safari tour.
Gobabis to Ghanzi:
Est. driving time: +/- 5.5-6 Hours
Est. total km: 505 km
Situated 300 kilometres southwest of Maun and just north of the Trans-Kalahari highway, which runs from Lobatse in Botswana to Walvis Bay in Namibia, the small town of Ghanzi is sometimes referred to as the 'Capital of the Kalahari'. It serves as the administrative centre of the Ghanzi district which covers a vast area of cattle ranches and farmland in the west of Botswana. The Ghanzi area has a number of lodges which focus on cultural tourism as well as wildlife viewing - here you can experience the fascinating world of the San Bushmen as they explain to you how they forage, hunt and find water in this harsh environment.

Day Itinerary

From Gobabis area, you will drive through the Namibian Buitepos border into Botswana. Today, your destination is situated in the middle of the Kalahari Desert, home to the Bushman of the Kalahari.
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Day 4-5: Maun

Aerial view of a boat safari cruising along a wide river surrounded by lush green riverbanks.
A red lechwe antelope wading through shallow blue water in a safari nature reserve.
Aerial view of the Okavango Delta waterways and wetlands taken from a small airplane window.
An African fish eagle perched on grassy mounds near open water in the wetlands.
Local guides poling traditional mokoro canoes through reed-lined channels in the Okavango Delta.
Ghanzi to Maun:
Est. driving time: +/- 3-4 Hours
Est. total km: 310 km
Set on the banks of the beautiful Thamalakane River in northern Botswana, Maun is the third largest town in this spectacularly scenic southern African country. Maun is the starting point for most expeditions into the Kavango Delta and as a result, has developed into a bustling metropolis that is considered Botswana’s tourism capital. Area attractions include a renowned riverboat that offers cruises up and down the Thamalakane River; the forest groves of the Maun Game Reserve; and Moremi Game Reserve, home to hippos, lions and rhinos. Maun also serves as the jumping off point for many safaris and air charters. Don’t miss the Nhabe Museum exhibiting the local history, art and culture of the Ngamiland region.

Day Itinerary

You will make your way further east into Botswana towards Maun, the "tourism capital" of Botswana. You will be staying at the gateway to the Delta and Moremi Game Reserve. Enjoy optional activities such as Mokoro trips, horse trails, sunset cruises, bird watches and scenic flights.
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Day 6: Nata

Flock of pink flamingos wading and feeding in shallow water reflecting golden sunset light.
A male African ostrich walking across open grassy plains near a large termite mound.
Aerial view of grass islands dotted across the vast, dry Makgadikgadi salt pans under a blue sky.
Local San Bushmen guides demonstrating traditional tracking skills to tourists on a cracked salt pan.
Herd of springbok and wildebeest gathering around a desert waterhole during an African safari.
Maun to Nata:
Est. driving time: +/- 4 Hours
Est. total km: 300 km
The small village of Nata is a popular stopover between Maun and Kasane along a road known as the ‘game drive route’ as there is often a chance to catch a glimpse of wildlife along the way. The unique landscape that surrounds the area around Nata features white sand, tall termite mounds and the Mokolwane palm trees. Nata is a convenient stop for tourists to fill up at numerous filling stations. Nata serves as an excellent base from which to explore the eastern section of the spectacular Makgadikgadi Pans. The Nata Sanctuary is a popular stop and a highlight for avid bird watchers, where lucky visitors can be rewarded with large flocks of Flamingos and Pelicans, which breed here each year.

Day Itinerary

After check-out, you will continue east of Botswana towards the village of Nata, which lies along the Nata River. The area is well known for its proximity to the Makgadikgadi Pans making for great Four-wheel drives into the pans. Also take time to visit the community project of the Nata Bird Sanctuary, which is a must -visit.
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Day 7-8: Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Aerial view of Victoria Falls Bridge spanning the gorge with mist rising from the waterfall below.
Pod of hippos submerged in the calm waters of the river during a safari boat tour.
Tourists in life jackets navigating heavy white water rapids on an inflatable raft.
Massive curtain of water cascading over the crest of Victoria Falls into a misty gorge under a blue sky.
A tall giraffe standing behind green leafy bushes in the African savanna.
Nata to Victoria Falls:
Est. driving time: +/- 4-5 Hours (depending on time spend at the border)
Est. total km: 320 km
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, is one of Africa's most iconic destinations and home to the spectacular Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Situated on the southern banks of the mighty Zambezi River, the vibrant town serves as the perfect base for exploring the falls and the surrounding attractions. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking viewpoints, scenic helicopter or microlight flights, exhilarating white-water rafting (seasonal), bungee jumping and relaxing sunset cruises on the Zambezi River. With its excellent accommodation, diverse restaurants, lively craft markets and warm Zimbabwean hospitality, Victoria Falls offers an unforgettable blend of adventure, natural beauty and cultural charm.

Day Itinerary

From Nata, you will head north, cross the border from Botswana into one of the seven Natural Wonders of the World - Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Enjoy the views of the largest sheet of falling water in the world! And take part in the guided tours of the falls, elephant back rides, bird watching and sunset cruises on the Zambezi River.
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Day 9-10: Chobe River Front

Golden morning sunrise over the mist-covered Chobe River with silhouetted hippos swimming.
A large herd of African elephants and young calves drinking water at the riverbank on a Chobe safari tour.
Scenic view of the Chobe River and lush green banks taken from a safari cruise boat under a clear blue sky.
Scenic view of the Chobe River and lush green banks taken from a safari cruise boat under a clear blue sky.
A lioness lying gracefully on sandy ground during a game drive in Chobe National Park.
Victoria Falls to Chobe:
Est. driving time: +/- 2 Hours
Est. total km: 85 km
The Chobe River forms the northern boundary of the Chobe National Park, renowned for its diverse and abundant game viewing opportunities. This section of the park is best known for its dense concentration of wildlife including elephant and hippo populations, but the waters attract all manner of game including large herds of buffalo and the lions that prey on them. A visit to this area guarantees close encounters with an array of African wildlife. Visitors can look forward to some exciting activities such as: cruising along the river in a motorboat, spotting rare birdlife and for a unique, luxury safari experience, hire a houseboat.

Day Itinerary

Depart from the Victoria Falls and head west towards Kasane; here you will again cross the border from Zimbabwe into Botswana, Kasane.
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Day 11-12: Bwabwata National Park

Aerial view of lush green wetlands and winding water channels during a scenic flight tour.
African fish eagle spreading its wings to take flight from grassy mounds in the savanna.
Double-decker boat full of tourists cruising down a river into a golden African sunset.
Large herd of wild African elephants gathered at the water edge to drink during a safari.
Water wake from a safari boat navigating a calm river channel in the Okavango Delta.
Chobe to Bwabwata:
Est. driving time: +/- 3-4 Hours
Est. total km: 250 km
Stretching over 6200 square kilometres in northeast Namibia, the Bwabwata National Park includes the Caprivi Game Park and the Mahango Game Reserve which extends along the narrow Caprivi Strip. The park functions as a wildlife sanctuary and practices community-engaged conservation. Dubbed the 'People's Park', the local Caprivian people live in harmony with the land and the animals. With an ever-growing wildlife population, the park is home to many animals including, elephant, leopard, lion, buffalo, wildebeest, crocodile, as well as red lechwe. Avid birdwatchers will be thrilled to find over 330 bird species in the area. Visitors can look forward to excellent game viewing, boat safaris, nature walks and camping under the Namibian night sky.

Day Itinerary

Early this morning, you will drive through the border from Botswana and once again into Namibia, the Caprivi strip. Home to a number of national parks and tribes, the strip is well known for its wide abundance of wildlife, cultures, rivers and bush.
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Day 13: Kavango River

Aerial view of the Kavango River winding through lush channels and rapids at sunset.
Hippo surfacing with open mouth in the calm waters of the Kavango River during a safari.
Tourists riding in traditional mokoro canoes guided through calm waters filled with blooming water lilies.
Vibrant blue and orange Malachite Kingfisher perched on a twig along the riverbank.
Tourists enjoying a guided pontoon boat cruise on the Kavango River during golden hour.
Bwabwata to Kavango:
Est. driving time: +/- 4.5-5 Hours
Est. total km: 450 km
The Kavango River is the fourth-largest river system in southern Africa. Starting in Angola, it runs south-eastward into Namibia and forms part of the Angolan/Namibian border. Visitors can soak up the magnificent views of the cascading Popa Falls a popular tourist attraction, just before the river crosses over into Botswana creating the renowned Kavango Delta. The area surrounding the river is known for its lush vegetation, spectacular natural beauty, and abundant wildlife. It is home to 150 species of fish and supports over 400 species of bird, making it a popular fishing and birding destination. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of adventure opportunities in and around the river, jump on a scenic boat cruise, visit the many reserves which dot the region, and explore the riverside town of Rundu, set on the banks of the Kavango River, it is the rural capital of the Kavango Region.

Day Itinerary

This morning, make a turn at the Mashi Crafts shop before you head towards Rundu. Along the way you will cross parts of national parks.
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Day 14: Otavi Mountain Region

Panoramic view of the rocky Otavi Mountains and dry valley landscape in Namibia
Majestic male Greater Kudu with spiral horns standing in dry grass on a Namibian safari
Deep turquoise water of Lake Otjikoto sinkhole surrounded by steep limestone cliffs near Otavi
Warthog standing by a stone waterhole in the dry reddish terrain of Otavi Namibia
Large Common Eland antelope standing in front of lush green trees during a safari in Otavi Namibia
Kavango to Otavi:
Est. driving time: +/- 3-4 Hours
Est. total km: 360 km
Situated in the Otjozondjupa Province, in the centre of what is known as the ‘Golden Triangle’, the towering Otavi Mountains are surrounded by the Northern Namibian towns of Otavi, Tsumeb, and Grootfontein, which are roughly 60 kilometres equidistant from each other. The landscape features golden maize plantations, spectacular dolomite mountains, and underground lakes. Visitors to this spectacular region can look forward to a variety of activities including: visiting the Hoba Meteorite, the largest ‘space object’ on earth and a national monument; explore Dragon’s Breath Cave which holds world’s largest underground lake; or viewing the bottomless ‘sinkhole’ Lake Otkikoto, boasting emerald green water is one of two permanent lakes in Namibia. Other interesting activities include: hiking, biking, fishing, off-roading, and game viewing safaris. Don’t miss the impressive Gaub Cave, filled with sensational stalactites and stalagmites.

Day Itinerary

Take advantage of a sunrise cruise or a game drive before embarking further on your tour to the Otavi Mountain region.
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Day 15-16: Etosha National Park - East

Tourists on a guided open safari vehicle watching a herd of wild African elephants cross the path
An African cheetah sitting attentively on the open ground during an Etosha safari game drive
Herd of zebras and springboks drinking water at a natural waterhole on a Namibian safari
An Angolan giraffe standing among sparse acacia bushes during a Namibian safari tour
Large herd of zebras, ostriches, and springboks gathering in the dusty plains of Etosha Salt Pan
Otavi to Etosha East:
Est. driving time: +/- 2 Hours
Est. total km: 170 km
Etosha East is a protected sanctuary in the eastern part of the world-renowned Etosha National Park, known as one of the most accessible game reserves in Southern Africa. Etosha East boasts vast open plains scattered with semi-arid savannah grasslands dotted with watering holes and secluded bush camps. An impressive 5000-square-kilometre Etosha salt pan makes up a large area of the eastern side of the park and can even be seen from space. This remote area teems with abundant wildlife such as lions, elephants, black rhinos and giraffes, as well as a variety of birdlife featuring flamingos, ostriches, eagles, hornbills, and owls.

Day Itinerary

From the Otavi Mountains, head to the greatest wildlife sanctuary in Namibia, Etosha National Park, The eastern side has a reputation of having the best views of wildlife. You can enjoy guided game drives or alternatively, you are welcome to do your own self-drive around the park at your own pace and viewing pleasure. Best times to view animals are early mornings and later afternoons when the heat is not too intense for you and the animals.
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Day 17: Etosha National Park - South

Scenic view of a natural waterhole with animals drinking under a clear sky in Etosha National Park
A black rhino walking through the arid bushveld during a safari in Etosha
Aerial view of a 4x4 safari vehicle driving along an open gravel road across the Etosha plains
A majestic male lion standing on a dirt road during a game drive in Etosha National Park
African elephant, springboks, and zebras gathering at a waterhole in Etosha National Park
Etosha East to Etosha South:
Est. driving time: +/- 3.5-6 Hours (depending on stops)
Est. total km: 100 km
Etosha South makes up the southern region of the Etosha National Park paradise. The national park can be accessed via the southern entrance at Andersson’s Gate. Visitors can visit a variety of waterholes and catch a glimpse of a wide range of wildlife such as: lion, giraffe, elephant, white and black rhino, and a gathering of plains game. Popular activities include: guided / self-drive game drives, or watch the sunset over this magnificent landscape.

Day Itinerary

Enjoy some breakfast and drive from the southern part of the park towards the eastern side of the national park. Enjoy the breath-taking scenery and wildlife sightings. Please note: The national park has a speed limit of 60km/hour.
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Day 18: Waterberg Region

Panoramic view from the top of Waterberg Plateau overlooking the expansive green plains below
A rare roan antelope standing in high grass during a wildlife safari in Waterberg Namibia
Dramatic red sandstone cliffs rising above lush green vegetation at Waterberg Plateau National Park
Hikers trekking up a rocky forest trail towards the red cliffs of Waterberg Plateau
Tourists on a guided horseback riding safari observing a wild rhino in Waterberg Namibia
Etosha South to Waterberg:
Est. driving time: +/- 2-3 Hours
Est. total km: 250 km
The Waterberg Region incorporates the Waterberg Plateau National Park and the farming districts from Outjo and Otjiwarongo in the west to Grootfontein and Tsumeb in the west.

Day Itinerary

After your last morning in Etosha National park, you will then drive towards your next destination in central Namibia.
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Day 19: Windhoek

A long paved highway stretching through a grassy landscape toward two distinct pointed mountains in the background.
A close-up side view of a white rhinoceros standing on dry ground under a clear blue sky.
A group of hikers walking down a dirt path on a sunny mountain ridge with scenic views of rolling hills.
A large gemsbok oryx standing in dry, tall yellow grass with distant blue mountains.
An elevated view of a vast grassy savannah scattered with low trees during a warm sunset.
Waterberg to Windhoek:
Est. driving time: +/- 3 Hours
Est. total km: 250 km
The region surrounding Windhoek offers a tranquil introduction to—or farewell from—Namibia. Set amidst rolling hills, acacia-dotted plains and abundant wildlife, it provides a peaceful bush experience just a short distance from the capital city. Whether enjoying a final game drive, relaxing by the lodge or taking in one last African sunset, this region offers the perfect ending to an unforgettable self-drive journey.

Day Itinerary

After a relaxed morning, return to the Windhoek region for your final overnight stay in Namibia, where you can relax and enjoy one last evening in the African bush.
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Day 20: Departure

Day Itinerary

Enjoy a relaxed morning before returning your rental vehicle to Melbic. Following the vehicle inspection, you will be transferred to Hosea Kutako International Airport, marking the end of your unforgettable Namibian adventure.

What’s Included

  • Accommodations / campsites as per itinerary
  • Meals as per itinerary
  • Planning
  • Advising
  • Bookings
  • 24/7 backup during your trip

What’s Not Included

  • Additional Meals
  • Entrance fees into parks and sightseeing spots
  • Flights and Visas
  • Activities – can be arranged

Need Help or Have Questions?

Driven by passion, we go above and beyond to deliver an unforgettable experience and ensure you receive the very best service.

Frequently Asked Questions
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Need Help or Have Questions?

Driven by passion, we go above and beyond to deliver an unforgettable experience and ensure you receive the very best service.

Frequently Asked Questions
Contact Us

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