Introducing the newest chapter in our Epic Experiences collection: The Okavango to Tsodilo Ultra-Trail.
On the 11th of April 2026, we’re launching something completely new in Botswana’s safari space: A 4-night, 100 km ultra-trail adventure connecting two UNESCO World Heritage Sites—the Okavango Delta to the ancient Tsodilo Hills.
This isn’t a race. It’s an intimate expedition for the kind of travellers who don’t just want to see Africa; they want to feel it underfoot, earn it with every kilometre, and share it with a handful of fellow adventurers doing something nobody else has done there.
We’ve spent a year plotting the route, testing the terrain, and creating what we believe is one of the most exciting new ways to experience Botswana’s wilderness. This is your invitation to be part of the inaugural journey.
START AT THE VERY BEGINNING
Who: Trail runners, trekkers, and adventure seekers. Solo travellers can join our set departure; running clubs and small groups can create their own tailor-made dates.
How: Book our annual April departure (11-15 April 2026) or request bespoke dates—completely customisable to suit your group.
Why: Endurance experiences are booming globally, yet this region remains unexplored on foot. It’s time to add a real adventure to your Botswana safari—the most authentic way to experience this wilderness.
RUN WITH HEART & SOUL
More than just an adventure, every Okavango to Tsodilo Ultra-Trail raises funds to recruit and train local long-distance runners, promoting healthy living, discipline, and social connection in marginalised communities. You’ll run alongside local community members, celebrating the culture of the birthplace of humanity through the power of running and choosing to do hard things together.
YOUR ROUTE, THE SHORT VERSION
DAY 1, THE WATER ROUTE:
Route Highlights: Nxamaseri Channel; Okavango Panhandle; Remote fishing villages; Island forests; Floodplains; Seasonal mokoro crossing.
Distance: 30-35 km.
Overnight: Nxamaseri Island Lodge.
DAY 2, THE HERITAGE CONNECTOR:
Route Highlights: Lush Okavango to arid Kalahari; Run parallel to megascale sand dunes; approach Tsodilo Hills; explore ancient rock art.
Distance: 40-45 km.
Overnight: Tsodilo Hills Sleep-Out Expedition Camp.
DAY 3, THE SUMMIT CHALLENGE:
Route Highlights: Tsodilo Hills trail; Further exploring rock art; Optional summit up Botswana’s highest peak, the Male Hill.
Distance: 20-25 km.
Overnight: Nxamaseri Island Lodge.
DAY 4, THE ULTIMATE FINISH LINE:
Highlights: Leisurely day at Nxamaseri Island Lodge; Spa treatments; Yoga on the Yoga Deck; Mokoro excursions; Activities; Poolside recovery.
Overnight: Nxamaseri Island Lodge. Celebrate this epic achievement with fellow runners before departure in the morning.
ASKED & ANSWERED
WHAT MAKES THIS ROUTE SAFE?
This region of the Okavango Panhandle has been carefully selected. Predator sightings in this area are rare, making confrontations with big cats or buffalo extremely unlikely. While sightings of hippos, crocodiles, and occasionally elephants are possible, the route is professionally planned and you will be accompanied throughout by expert guides trained in wilderness safety and a qualified medic. The group moves together under professional management.
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
Professional Support: Expert trail running guide with extensive local knowledge; Qualified medic; Support staff at refreshment and refuelling points
Accommodation & Meals: 4 nights accommodation (3 Nxamaseri Island Lodge; 1 Tsodilo Hills Sleep-Out Expedition Camp); Full board: All meals and beverages; Celebration dinner on return to Nxamaseri.
Activities & Experiences: All guided trail running/hiking; Traditional mokoro crossings (when water levels permit); Cultural connection with local communities; San Bushman cultural evening at Tsodilo Hills; Guided exploration of Tsodilo Hills rock art sites; Optional Male Hill summit.
Logistics: Refreshment and refuelling points en route; Luggage transfers between camps; Emergency support and communications; Park fees and community contributions
Note: Runners are expected to carry their own hydration packs and personal running equipment.
HOW TO PREPARE?
Pre-Trail Acclimatisation: We strongly recommend arriving 2-3 days before the trail begins. This gives you time to adjust to the heat, shake off the flight, and settle into the rhythm of the region—ensuring you start the trail fresh and ready.
Suggested Pre-Trail Package: 2 nights at Sedia Hotel, Maun , known as the gateway town to the Okavango Delta. Use this time to: Recover from travel and adjust to the altitude and climate; Enjoy shake-out runs on routes hosted by the local running community; Visit local breweries, gin distilleries, markets and restaurants; Meet fellow participants and build excitement for the adventure ahead.
Essential Equipment: Hydration pack or running vest with water capacity; Trail running shoes (broken in); Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, high SPF sunscreen); Personal medications and any specific nutrition requirements; Head torch for early starts; Running gear suitable for hot conditions; Optional trekking poles for support. Detailed kit list provided upon booking.
WHAT ABOUT AN EPIC SAFARI?
Combine adventure, cultural immersion, and wildlife with our post-trail safari offering. Every itinerary is fully customisable, but here’s what we recommend:
Day 1-2: Sedia Hotel, 2 Nights (Pre-Trial Acclimatisation).
Day 3-6: Nxamaseri Island Lodge, 4 Nights (Ultra-Trail + 1 Night Sleep-Out).
Day 7-9: Camp Moremi or Camp Xakanaxa, 3 Nights (Authentic Land/Water-Based Safari).
Day 10-12: Savute Safari Lodge, 3 Nights (Stunning Scenes & Game-Viewing Focus).
Day 13: Departure from Maun.
This combination creates a truly comprehensive Botswana experience.
THIS IS IT!
This is the Okavango to Tsodilo Ultra-Trail—the newest chapter in our Epic Experiences collection. In Botswana, one of the few places on Earth where such a journey can unfold, we invite you to stand with us at the start line. It marks the beginning of an adventure few have ever witnessed—shared step by step, all the way to the finish.
For bookings, enquiries and more information, kindly email James by clicking HERE.
Images by Gareth Roberts.