The Best of Southern Africa: Desert & Deltas

South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, September 24–October 4, 2026

Embark on an extraordinary journey through some of Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and wildlife-rich reserves. This carefully curated itinerary blends adventure, cultural immersion, wild life safaris and relaxation, ensuring a once-in-a-lifetime experience that deepens your appreciation for this remarkable part of the world.

Trip Highlights

Johannesburg: Step into the heart of South Africa’s largest city, where history and innovation converge. Visit the dynamic art and music scenes, gain insight into the country’s past and future, and experience the energy of this ever-evolving metropolis.
Okavango Delta: Immerse yourself in one of the most pristine wilderness areas on the planet. Explore the winding waterways of the Okavango Delta by traditional mokoro canoe, enjoy game drives with expert guides, and spot the legendary “Big Five” in their natural habitat.
Chobe National Park: Experience unparalleled wildlife encounters in Botswana’s famed Chobe National Park, where vast herds of elephants roam the floodplains and predators lurk in the tall grasses. Enjoy both land and water safaris, offering unique perspectives on this diverse ecosystem.
Victoria Falls: Witness the awe-inspiring power of one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, Victoria Falls. Known as “The Smoke That Thunders,” this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a spectacle of cascading water, lush rain forest, and breathtaking viewpoints.

Get a Glimpse

Faculty Host: Daphne Lamothe

Daphne Lamothe is Smith’s chief academic officer, responsible for curriculum and for faculty teaching and research support. She plays a pivotal role in achieving Smith’s institutional goals through stewardship of the college’s academic mission. Academic and co-curricular units within the provost’s portfolio include all academic departments as well as the libraries; the museum of art; the botanic garden; Institutional Research; the Office of the Registrar; and the Office for the Arts. She also chairs the Committee on Academic Priorities and oversees the long-term composition of the faculty.

Learn More About Provost Lamothe

More Information

Itinerary at a Glance

Date(s)	Travel Schedule
September 24	Depart U.S.
September 25	Arrive in Johannesburg
September 26	Johannesburg, Okavango Delta
September 27–29	Okavango Delta
September 30	Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park
October 1	Chobe National Park
October 2	Chobe National Park, Victoria Falls
October 3	Victoria Falls
October 4	Victoria Falls, Johannesburg, Depart for U.S.

Trip Details

Duration: 11 days
Activity Level: Easy to moderate
Cost: $13,999 per person, based on double occupancy
Single Supplement: N/A
Deposit: $1,250 per person, payable to Immersion Journeys
Co-Sponsors: None

Registration

To reserve a space, please complete and return the form with your deposit of $1,250 ($1,550 per person including Cape Town extension) payable to Immersion Journeys. Mail to 455 Main Street, Suite 5M, New York, NY 10044 or email: info@immersionjourneys.com. You can also sign up online. We will not process your deposit until you are assigned a place on the tour. Please contact 917-686-2620 or info@immersionjourneys.com if you have any questions about the registration process.