Tour Introduction
Experience Southern Africa in a way few travellers ever will on this extraordinary Sisterhood adventure combining vibrant cities, thrilling wildlife encounters and exclusive stays on both land and water. From historic Johannesburg, to the African wilderness we'll enjoy our exclusive Sisterhood stay at a luxurious lodge on Namibia's Impalila Island, visit Chobe National Park by 4WD, and take a private safari boat exploring both the Chobe and the Zambezi rivers before taking to the skies for a spectacular flight to Lake Kariba, where our exclusively chartered safari ship awaits. Ending our African exsperience at Victoria Falls, it will be an incredible experience.Highlights
Experience our exclusive Sisterhood charter of a luxurious safari ship and wilderness lodge
Explore Johannesburg and its powerful Apartheid Museum
Enjoy thrilling 4WD safaris through wildlife-rich Chobe National Park
Cruise the Chobe and Zambezi rivers aboard private safari boats spotting wildlife
Visit traditional Namibian villages and learn about local life and customs
Take a spectacular private flight over the African savannah
Cruise beautiful Lake Kariba aboard our exclusively chartered safari ship
Search for elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo and hippos in Matusadona National Park
Experience unforgettable land and water safaris in the heart of the African wilderness
Stargaze beneath the brilliant African night sky from our ship’s sun deck
Witness the breathtaking power and beauty of magnificent Victoria Falls
Enjoy an elegant high tea at the iconic Victoria Falls Hotel overlooking the Victoria Falls Bridge
Friends for Company!
Inclusions
Personally escorted by an experienced Sisterhood Hostess who is on hand to assist with making your holiday a memorable one
Return economy airfares from Melbourne, including taxes (upgrades available on request)
Domestic and private charter flights throughout Southern Africa as per our itinerary
Transportation throughout the tour
Services of experienced local guides, safari guides and cruise crew
All sightseeing, safaris and excursions as per our detailed itinerary
2-night stay in Johannesburg
4-night exclusive Sisterhood stay at a luxurious safari lodge on Impalila Island
4-night exclusive Sisterhood charter aboard a luxury safari ship on Lake Kariba
2-night stay in Victoria Falls
All meals as per our itinerary, including breakfast, lunch and dinner during our safari lodge stay and Lake Kariba cruise
Local wine, beer, spirits, soft drinks and water while dining and relaxing at our safari lodge and aboard our chartered ship
4WD and private boat safaris in Chobe and Matusadona National Parks
Private scenic flights over the magnificent African savannah
Traditional High Tea at the iconic Victoria Falls Hotel
All port charges and taxes
All tipping and gratuities included (except when enjoying free time)
Willing to Share Option (subject to availability)
Meet and Greet prior to departure via Zoom
Notice
Activity Level:
This tour is designed for travellers with a good level of general fitness, mobility and balance who are comfortable with varied sightseeing, wildlife safaris and regularly boarding different forms of transport. While this is not a walking-intensive itinerary, travellers must be able to walk independently over uneven ground, stony paths, slopes, jetties and unsealed surfaces. The tour includes boarding small boats, safari vehicles, coaches and private aircraft, sometimes without steps or handrails. Travellers must also manage frequent border crossings, stand for periods during sightseeing and walk through the Victoria Falls rainforest, where pathways may be wet and slippery. There are no elevators aboard the safari ship, and travellers must be able to use stairs and move around the vessel independently. Assistance cannot always be guaranteed due to the remote locations visited.
Activity Factors:
✔ Walking over uneven, stony and potentially slippery surfaces
✔ Guided walking tours in Johannesburg and Victoria Falls
✔ Stairs and slopes throughout the itinerary
✔ No elevators aboard the safari ship
✔ Boarding and disembarking small boats independently
✔ Climbing into and out of elevated 4WD safari vehicles
✔ Boarding small private aircraft with restricted access
✔ Standing for extended periods during sightseeing and border formalities
✔ Frequent border crossings between Southern African countries
✔ Early starts and full sightseeing days
✔ Long travel days involving flights, boats and road transfers
✔ Exposure to warm weather, sun and changing temperatures
✔ Carrying and managing your own luggage
✔ Strict soft-sided luggage limits for private aircraft
✔ Remote locations where medical facilities and personal assistance may be limited
✘ Not suitable for travellers requiring a walking aid or personal assistance
✘ Not suitable for travellers unable to board boats, aircraft and safari vehicles independently
Additional Meal Allowance:
This tour is exceptionally well catered, with almost all breakfasts, lunches and dinners included throughout our journey. Meals are fully included during our safari lodge stay and Lake Kariba cruise, together with local wine, beer, spirits, soft drinks and water while relaxing at the lodge and onboard our chartered ship. For comfortable budgeting, we recommend allowing approximately AUD150 per person for any additional coffees, drinks, snacks and incidental treats throughout the tour. Travellers wishing to enjoy additional alcoholic beverages or refreshments during free time in Victoria Falls may wish to allow a little extra.
Tipping:
All tipping and gratuities for included sightseeing, transfers, safari guides, lodge staff and cruise crew are included in your tour cost. You’ll only need to tip when enjoying meals, activities or services independently during your free time. As a general guide, allow approximately 10–15% of the bill in restaurants when a service charge has not already been included.
Optional Sightseeing:
Flight over Victoria Falls - For a truly unforgettable perspective of Victoria Falls, take to the skies on the spectacular Flight of Angels helicopter experience. Soar above the mighty Falls and witness the extraordinary scale of this natural wonder from the air, with breathtaking views across the thundering curtain of water, the winding Zambezi River and dramatic Batoka Gorge below. The classic scenic flight lasts approximately 12–15 minutes, with sweeping passes designed to provide wonderful views and incredible photographic opportunities. This is one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences that really does deserve a place on the bucket list! Optional experience at additional cost and subject to weather conditions, availability and minimum passenger requirements. Cost per person AUD340 (must be pre-booked).
Visa Information and Travel Advice:
South Africa - Australian Passport Holders do not need a visa - but you need to complete a customs online traveller declaration before departure.
Namibia - You will need to apply for a visa on arrival - https://eservices.mhaiss.gov.na/visaonarrival
Botswana - Australian Passport Holders do not need a visa
Zimbabwe - You will need to apply for a visa - https://www.evisa.gov.zw/index.html
** Please contact Sisterhood Central for advice on applying. (SWT Central can obtain on behalf of the passenger for a fee - appointments are compulsory)
Please visit: https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations for further information about the above countries.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Monday 9 August 2027
Melbourne - Johannesburg (D)
Welcome to Sisterhood Womens Travel. Your tour hostess and fellow travellers will meet you at the designated departure point at Melbourne Airport for our flight to Johannesburg, South Africa. Sit back, relax and enjoy the flight.
Johannesburg, affectionately known as Jo’burg or Jozi, is South Africa’s largest and most energetic city – a fascinating place where the country’s complex history meets a vibrant, modern African culture. Once at the heart of the world’s greatest gold rush, today Johannesburg is a lively mix of leafy neighbourhoods, colourful markets, contemporary galleries and important historic sites.
For us, Johannesburg offers an opportunity to discover another side of South Africa, learning more about the people and events that have shaped the nation while experiencing the warmth, spirit and unmistakable energy of this remarkable city.
Upon arrival, we’ll be met and transferred to our hotel with dinner tonight at the hotel restaurant.
Overnight - 54 on Bath, Rosebank (or similar)
Day 2 - Tuesday 10 August 2027
Sightseeing in Johannesburg (B, L, D)
Today we enjoy a visit to the Apartheid Museum. This internationally acclaimed museum provides an absorbing and deeply moving account of South Africa’s 20th-century history and its journey through apartheid to democracy. We’ll then take a panoramic tour of Johannesburg. As South Africa’s financial capital, Johannesburg is a city of extraordinary contrasts, combining a complex history with a lively and energetic contemporary culture.
Later, we’ll return to our hotel and enjoy dinner together.
Overnight - 54 on Bath Rosebank (or similar)
Day 3 - Wednesday 11 August 2027
Johannesburg - Kasane - Impalila Island (B, L, D)
After breakfast, we’ll transfer to Johannesburg Airport and fly to Kasane in Botswana.
From Kasane, we’ll travel by small private boat to our exclusive safari lodge on Impalila Island in Namibia. During the journey, we may spot some of the region’s abundant birdlife, together with hippos and crocodiles resting along the riverbanks.
Upon arrival, we’ll be warmly welcomed by the lodge team and settle into our comfortable accommodation, surrounded by the tranquillity of the African wilderness.
Dinner and overnight - Kaza Safari Lodge
Day 4 - Thursday 12 August 2027
Chobe National Park (B, L, D)
Today promises an unforgettable introduction to the wildlife of Chobe National Park.
This morning we’ll set out in specially adapted 4WD vehicles for a thrilling game drive. Chobe is home to more than a quarter of Africa’s elephant population, together with lions, buffalo, giraffes, antelopes and a remarkable variety of birdlife.
After lunch, we’ll embark on a private boat safari along the Chobe River, cruising towards the lush wetlands surrounding Sedudu Island. Travelling quietly along the waterways provides a wonderful opportunity to observe animals gathering along the riverbanks.
Returning to our lodge for a rest before dinner.
Overnight - Kaza Safari Lodge
Day 5 - Friday 13 August 2027
Impalila Island and the Zambezi River (B, L, D)
This morning we’ll visit traditional villages on Impalila Island and learn about the customs, traditions and everyday lives of the local communities.
After returning to the lodge for lunch, we’ll set out on a private boat excursion along the legendary Zambezi River. Stretching for more than 2,500 kilometres and flowing through six Southern African countries, the Zambezi offers spectacular landscapes and an extraordinary sense of wilderness.
Returning to our lodge for a rest before dinner.
This evening, following dinner, our guide will share some of the island’s fascinating stories, traditions and legends.
Overnight - Kaza Safari Lodge
Day 6 - Saturday 14 August 2027
Chobe National Park Safari (B, L, D)
We’ll return to Botswana and the magnificent Chobe National Park for another exciting 4WD game drive.
As we travel through the park, we’ll search for elephants, lions, buffalo, giraffes, antelopes and the many colourful bird species that inhabit this remarkable wilderness.
We’ll enjoy a traditional African lunch surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature before returning to our lodge. The remainder of the afternoon is ours to relax, perhaps enjoying the swimming pool and peaceful surroundings.
Returning to our lodge for a rest before dinner.
Overnight - Kaza Safari Lodge
Day 7 - Sunday 15 August 2027
Chobe Region - Kasane - Lake Kariba (B, L, D)
This morning we’ll enjoy a final private boat safari through the Chobe region, providing one last opportunity to observe the animals and birdlife along the river.
Following lunch on the river, we’ll travel to Kasane Airport and board a private aircraft for a spectacular scenic flight over the African savannah to Lake Kariba.
Upon arrival, we’ll transfer to our (exclusive) intimate safari ship and settle into our cabins. Measuring approximately 200 kilometres long and 40 kilometres wide, Lake Kariba’s flooded valleys, hills and forests have created an environment of rare and haunting beauty.
Welcome Dinner onboard tonight.
Overnight - RV Zimbabwean Dream
Day 8 - Monday 16 August 2027
Matusadona National Park (B, L, D)
This morning we’ll travel by 4WD through Matusadona National Park, a pristine wilderness nestled between the Sanyati and Ume rivers.
Covering more than 1,400 square kilometres, the park provides a sanctuary for elephants, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles and an extraordinary variety of birdlife. With a little luck, we may also spot one of Africa’s elusive big cats.
We’ll return to our ship for lunch as we cruise across the shimmering waters of Lake Kariba. Later, we’ll set out by private boat to explore some of the lake’s most picturesque corners, watching for elephants and other wildlife coming to drink along the shoreline.
Returning to our 'floating hotel' for dinner.
Overnight - RV Zimbabwean Dream
Day 9 - Tuesday 17 August 2027
Lake Kariba & Matusadona National Park (B, L, D)
Our exploration of Matusadona National Park continues today, beginning with a private boat safari through its winding waterways and hidden coves.
Lunch will be served onboard as we cruise across the lake. Later in the afternoon, we’ll transfer to 4WD vehicles for another exciting safari as the golden light of sunset spreads across the plains.
We’ll search for lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, hippos and crocodiles before returning to the ship for dinner.
Tonight, we’ll step onto the sun deck for a magical stargazing experience. Far from city lights, the night sky reveals a glittering canopy of stars and the magnificent Milky Way.
Overnight - RV Zimbabwean Dream
Day 10 - Wednesday 18 August 2027
Cruising Lake Kariba (B, L, D)
This morning we’ll enjoy our final private boat excursion on Lake Kariba.
The silhouettes of submerged trees rising from the still waters create the lake’s distinctive and mysterious atmosphere. As we cruise, we’ll enjoy lunch onboard and an informative presentation from our guide about the lake’s history, wildlife, communities and unique ecosystem.
As the afternoon light begins to soften, we can relax on the sun deck with a drink and watch the sky turn beautiful shades of pink over the African landscape.
We'll enjoy our farewell dinner tonight with time to meet and appreciated the crew for looking after us!
Overnight - RV Zimbabwean Dream
Day 11 - Thursday 19 August 2027
Lake Kariba – Victoria Falls (B, L, D)
We’ll begin the day with a sunrise cruise towards Kariba before disembarking our ship.
On the way to the airport, we’ll visit the enormous Kariba Dam Wall. Built across the Zambezi River, this remarkable engineering project created Lake Kariba and today generates much of Zimbabwe’s electricity. We’ll also hear the stories and legends associated with the lake, including the tale of Nyami Nyami, the Zambezi River spirit.
We’ll then board a private charter flight to Victoria Falls. Upon arrival, we’ll enjoy a lunch cruise along the upper reaches of the Zambezi River.
This afternoon we’ll take a guided walking tour of magnificent Victoria Falls. Here, the mighty Zambezi River plunges more than 108 metres into the gorge below, creating the world’s largest curtain of falling water and the spectacular “smoke that thunders”.
Tonight, we’ll enjoy a lively Boma dinner, featuring a buffet, traditional dancing and interactive drumming.
Overnight - Victoria Falls Lodge (or similar)
Day 12 - Friday 20 August 2027
Victoria Falls Hotel - High Tea (B, AT, D)
With a free morning to enjoy the hotel facilities or some optional activities, this afternoon we’ll step back into the elegance of a bygone era with traditional high tea at the magnificent Victoria Falls Hotel. Built in 1904, this grand Edwardian landmark occupies one of Africa’s most extraordinary locations, just a short walk from the mighty Victoria Falls.
Seated on Stanley’s Terrace, we’ll enjoy delicate sandwiches, freshly baked scones with jam and cream, and tempting sweet treats while taking in spectacular views across the Batoka Gorge to the historic Victoria Falls Bridge. With the mist from “The Smoke That Thunders” rising in the distance, this is far more than afternoon tea—it’s a wonderfully elegant and quintessential African experience in a truly unforgettable setting. The Victoria Falls Hotel.
Returning to our lodge afterwards with the remainder of the day at leisure.
Dinner tonight at our lodge and time to celebrate our fantastic Afican Safari with new friends for company.
Overnight - Victoria Falls Lodge
Day 13 - Saturday 21 August 2027
Victoria Falls - Home (B)
After breaktast, time to say goodbye to Africa as we transfer to the Victoria Falls airport to begin our journey home via Johannesburg.
Sit back, relax and enjoy the in-flight entertainment of the airline as we head towards home.
Day 14 - Sunday 22 August 2027
Welcome Home
Our journey comes to an end as we arrive back in Melbourne. We hope you've returned home inspired by the incredible places we've explored, enriched by the friendships you've made, and already dreaming about your next adventure.
Thank you for travelling with Sisterhood Womens Travel. It has been our pleasure to share this journey with you, and we look forward to welcoming you back for your next adventure.