Cape Town to the Okavango Delta: The Ultimate Luxury Safari Trip

Cape Town to the Okavango Delta: Where Two Worlds Meet

Imagine starting your day with a sunrise over Table Mountain and ending it with a mokoro ride through the serene waterways of the Okavango Delta. This journey from Cape Town to the Okavango Delta offers an unparalleled blend of cosmopolitan charm and untouched wilderness. Whether you're a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned traveler, this luxury safari trip promises experiences that are both exhilarating and soul-stirring.

Cape Town to Okavango Delta Safari. Outdoor golden bathtub on a wooden deck beside a bamboo fence, overlooking a lush green landscape. A potted plant and stool nearby. Relaxing vibe. — Best Bathtub in the World? Love this view at Atzaro Okavango. Photo Craig Howes

I’ve done this trip — and every time I think back, I’m reminded of how surreal the contrast is. From ocean breeze to elephant tracks in the sand in less than a day.

“Waking up in Cape Town and falling asleep to the sound of hippos in the Delta — it’s the most extraordinary contrast I’ve ever experienced. Truly once in a lifetime.” Emily W., ASM reader

See the Video from Our Trip from Cape Town to Okavango Delta.

Cape Town to Okavango Delta Safari

Aerial view of a busy beach clifton, cape town south africa with people sunbathing, turquoise ocean, white sand, rocky coastline, and distant mountains under a clear sky. — Start your trip off in Clifton with this iconic beach. Photo Craig Howes

Day-by-Day Luxury Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Cape Town

Accommodation: Check into a luxury boutique hotel with panoramic views of the city and ocean.
Activities: Relax and acclimate; perhaps enjoy a spa treatment or a leisurely stroll along the V&A Waterfront.

Luxury Boutique Hotel, Atzaro Cape Town. Two people dining at a table on a wooden deck by a pool, with a city view in the background. Greenery and light blue seating surround. — Breakfast with the best view in Cape Town. Atzaro Cape Town

Day 2: Explore Cape Town's Icons

Morning: Ascend Table Mountain via cable car for breathtaking views.
Afternoon: Visit the historic Robben Island or explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Bo-Kaap and Woodstock.
Evening: Dine at a world-class restaurant, savoring South Africa's renowned cuisine.
View from on top of Table Mountain

Day 3: Cape Winelands Excursion

Destination: Embark on a day trip to Stellenbosch or Franschhoek.
Activities: Indulge in wine tastings at prestigious estates, paired with gourmet lunches amidst scenic vineyards.
The Famous Cape Winelands.

Day 4: Journey to the Okavango Delta

Travel: Fly from Cape Town to Maun, Botswana, then take a helicopter to your luxury lodge in the Delta.
Accommodation: Settle into an exclusive safari camp, Atzaro Okavango, offering opulent amenities and personalized service.

A helicopter flies over a vast, green and brown landscape in the Okavango Delta under a partly cloudy sky. The helicopter's registration reads A2-HVG. — Flight from Maun to Atzaro Okavango in Okavango Delta

Days 5-7: Immersive Safari in the Okavango Delta

Activities:
- Morning and evening game drives to spot the Big Five.
- Mokoro excursions navigate the Delta's intricate waterways.
- Guided bush walks focusing on the region's flora and smaller fauna.
Wildlife of the Okavango Delta: Expect sightings of elephants, lions, hippos, African wild dogs, leopards and a plethora of bird species.

Wild dogs with spotted coats stand and walk on lush green grass near a small water body in the savanna. — See the famous African Wild Dogs of the Okavango Delta

“Every mokoro journey is different — some days it’s elephants, some days it’s silence. That’s the magic of the Delta.” Lasty, Guide at Atzaró Okavango

Three men in a canoe Mokoro on a Okavango Delta, with reeds and a cloudy sky. One man is standing with a pole; others sit relaxed. — Luke Evans enjoys his Makoro Safari at ATzaro Okavango

Day 8: Departure

Morning: Enjoy a final game drive or a leisurely breakfast overlooking the Delta.
Travel: Fly back to Maun for your onward journey.

Luke Evans in robe reading on a brown sofa, surrounded by a wooden table with food. Large window shows lush greenery, creating a serene mood. Luxury Safari Camp Botswana — Luke Evans enjoys his last morning at Atzaro Okavango

See the best time to visit the Okavango Delta

Safari from Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town serves as a prime gateway for various safari experiences:

Aquila Private Game Reserve: Approximately 2 hours from the city, offering Big Five safaris and luxurious accommodations.
Inverdoorn Game Reserve: About 2.5 hours away, known for its cheetah conservation program.
Gondwana Game Reserve: Situated along the Garden Route, blending fynbos vegetation with diverse wildlife.

For those seeking the pinnacle of luxury safari trips, combining Cape Town with the Okavango Delta provides an unmatched experience of urban sophistication and wild serenity.

See the best luxury lodges in the Okavango Delta.

What Our Travelers Say:

“The service at our Okavango camp (Atzaro Okavango) was exceptional — it felt like luxury without losing the soul of Africa.”

Cultural trip on Safarai. Person in a straw costume dances outside, surrounded by clapping onlookers under green trees. Mixed emotions and engagement. — Visiting the local village in Okavango Delta

“We combined Cape Town and Botswana in one trip, and it was seamless thanks to ASM’s planning help.”

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to the Okavango Delta from South Africa? The most efficient route is flying from Cape Town to Maun, Botswana. From Maun, light aircraft transfers take you directly to lodges within the Okavango Delta.

Where do you fly into for the Okavango Delta? Maun International Airport (MUB) is the primary gateway to the Delta, with several daily flights from major South African cities.

Is the Okavango Delta worth visiting? Absolutely. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Delta offers unique ecosystems, abundant wildlife, and unparalleled safari experiences.

What is the closest city to the Okavango Delta? Maun is the nearest city, serving as the main hub for travelers heading into the Delta.

What Our Travelers Say

"Waking up in Cape Town and falling asleep to the sound of hippos in the Delta — it’s the most extraordinary contrast I’ve ever experienced. Truly once in a lifetime." — Emily W., ASM reader

"The service at our Okavango camp was exceptional — it felt like luxury without losing the soul of Africa."

About Us: African Safari Mag

At African Safari Mag, we've traversed the vast landscapes of Africa, from the bustling streets of Cape Town to the tranquil channels of the Okavango Delta. Our team has experienced a myriad of safaris, from ultra-luxurious lodges to bush camps budget-friendly. We share our firsthand insights to help you plan the perfect safari tailored to your preferences.

Ready to Embark on Your Dream Safari?

If you're seeking expert assistance in planning and booking your luxury safari trip from Cape Town to the Okavango Delta, visit our Plan a Safari page. Let's craft an unforgettable journey together. Start planning your journey here!