Desert & Delta Safaris unveils new Botswana ultra-trail run itinerary
Desert & Delta Safaris has unveiled Botswana’s four-night, 100km ultra-trail as part of its Epic Experiences Collection.
A completely new experience in Africa, it links two iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the waterways of the Okavango Delta and the ancient Tsodilo Hills, known as the “Mountains of the Gods.”
Launching on April 9 2026, it is designed for runners seeking unique wildlife refuges, cultural heritage, and exploring Botswana’s natural world.
The Okavango to Tsodilo Ultra-Trail breaks new ground by exploring a territory rarely accessed on foot. Desert & Delta Safaris spent more than a year planning and testing this route to ensure it offers not only natural beauty and cultural immersion but also optimal safety and logistical support.
James Wilson, Sales & Marketing UK and Europe for Desert & Delta Safaris, said: “Botswana’s wilderness is alive with stories that few visitors ever experience, and with this trail we’ve created a pathway to discover them.”
The Okavango to Tsodilo Ultra-Trail is perfectly suited to solo adventurers joining the fixed departure (9– 13 April, 2026) or running clubs and small groups looking for fully bespoke journeys for private events.
The itinerary is a mix of challenging trail running and immersive cultural experiences.
Day 1 — The Water Route (30-35 km)
It starts in the Okavango Panhandle, traversing the Nxamaseri Channel and island forests. The day includes encounters with remote fishing villagesand a seasonal mokoro (traditional canoe) crossing. The night is spent at the exclusive Nxamaseri Island Lodge.
Day 2 — The Heritage Connector (40-45 km)
Runners cross vast sand dunes and approach the Tsodilo Hills. This day offers opportunities to explore the ancient rock art sites, the most extensive in southern Africa, considered sacred by the San Bushmen. Stay the night in the Tsodilo Hills Sleep-Out Expedition Camp.
Day 3 — The Summit Challenge (20-25 km)
Day three is an intimate exploration of Tsodilo Hills, with options to summit Male Hill, Botswana’s highest peak. Guests can delve into rock art sites. Return to Nxamaseri Island Lodge in the delta.
Day 4 — The Ultimate Finish Line
The final day is dedicated to rest and celebration at Nxamaseri Island Lodge, with spa treatments, yoga on the yoga deck, optional mokoro excursions, and a celebratory dinner. Runners depart the following morning.
Desert & Delta Safaris is one of the original safari operators in Botswana, founded in 1982.
The nine Desert & Delta Safaris camps are set in prime locations in northern Botswana’s game reserves, national parks & wilderness concessions with one across the Chobe River in Namibia’s Eastern Zambezi Region.
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