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SPU Travel Package

Price:

from €4,200

Group Size:

4+ People

Duration

10 Days incl. SPU

Depature:

Maun

Explore Botswana: All-Inclusive Travel Packages for the SPU

We’re excited to offer 10 day all-inclusive travel packages that combine the Salt Pans Ultra Marathon with unforgettable wildlife experiences. These packages are designed for international runners but are also available to local participants and those from Southern Africa.

Your adventure will include the thrill of the Salt Pans Ultra alongside mobile safaris and stunning wildlife encounters at the Boteti River in the Makgadikgadi and the Okavango Delta.

Experience the ultimate adventure in Botswana by combining the challenge of the Salt Pans Ultra with an unforgettable wildlife and cultural journey. Our exclusive travel package is designed to give runners and their supporters a unique taste of Botswana’s stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and rich wildlife. From the vast salt flats to the lush waterways of the Okavango Delta, this trip offers the perfect balance of endurance, exploration, and relaxation.

This is an exclusive offer for a group of 4 – 8 people.

Witness the Great Migration at the Boteti River: Spend two days at the Boteti River and marvel at the breathtaking sight of thousands of zebras and wildebeests as they migrate through the region.

Run the Toughest Flat-Route Ultra-Marathon in the World: Take on the challenge of the Salt Pans Ultra, a race like no other, set in one of the most extreme and mesmerizing landscapes on Earth.

Immerse Yourself in the Okavango Delta: Enjoy three days in the UNESCO-listed Okavango Delta, where you’ll explore the waterways by boat, embark on thrilling game drives, and meet the local communities that call this incredible ecosystem home.

All transport

Park Fees

Accommodation

Game Drives

Breakfast

All meals African Culture Journeys

Lunch and Dinner Boteti River Lodge

Airport shuttle

Flights

Alcoholic beverages (except African Culture Safari)

None Alcoholic beverages (except African Culture Safari)

Lunch and Dinner in Maun

Cultural activities Maun

Optional cultural activities

All accommodation except Sedia Hotel will be tented accommodation

If any of the suggested accommodations are unavailable due to peak season, we will arrange equivalent alternatives.

Fill up the inquiry form below if you need more information or just book your tour.

Price
€ 
0.00

  • Day 1 Maun
  • Day 2 - 3 Boteti River
  • Day 4 - 6 Salt Pans Ultra
  • Day 7 - 10 Okavango Delta
  • Day 10 Maun
  • Day 11 Departure
  • Day 1
  • Day 2 - 3
  • Day 4 - 6
  • Day 7 - 9
  • Day 10
  • Day 1
  • Day 2 - 3
  • Day 4 - 6
  • Day 7 - 10
  • Day 10
  • Day 11

Day 1 - Welcome to Maun

Welcome to Maun – Botswana’s vibrant tourism hub and the gateway to the breathtaking Okavango Delta. This lively town is the perfect starting point for exploring the Central Kalahari, the Boteti River, and the vast Salt Pans, offering a diverse blend of landscapes and wildlife experiences.

Upon arrival, settle in and unwind at Sedia Hotel, where you can relax by the pool and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. Alternatively, dive into Maun’s rich culture with a guided cultural tour, where you’ll explore the town’s fascinating history, visit local markets, and experience traditional crafts and storytelling.

No matter how you choose to spend your first day, Maun welcomes you with warm hospitality and a taste of adventure!

Set on the banks of the beautiful Thamalakane River in northern Botswana, Maun is the third-largest town in this spectacularly scenic southern African country.

Maun is the starting point for most expeditions into the Okavango Delta and as a result, has developed into a bustling metropolis that is considered Botswana’s tourism capital. Area attractions include a renowned riverboat that offers cruises up and down the Thamalakane River; the forest groves of the Maun Game Reserve; and Moremi Game Reserve, home to hippos, lions and rhinos. Maun also serves as the jumping-off point for many safaris and air charters as well as offering private 4x4 rentals.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Nhabe Museum exhibiting the local history, art and culture of the Ngamiland region.

Nhabe Museum is a Community based Museum for Ngamiland in Maun, North-west of Botswana, established out of a need to preserve and conserve the local cultures. This small and simple museum is housed in a historic building built by the British military in 1939 and was used during WWII as a surveillance post keeping tabs on the German presence in Namibia.

The Museum outlines the culture and natural history of the Okavango Delta and is managed by a board of Trustees. The various exhibition found in the museum includes historical crafts, fine art, Bayei fishing net, photography, basket-weaving, art and written poetry. The guests have a variety of selection in the gift shop and nursery where various nursery and plants are sold.

Following its inception in April 1996, the museum plays a pivotal role in the promotion and preservation of local arts and culture and natural heritage, as well as the improvement of livelihoods of local communities by promoting and encouraging the local communities to engage in activities of cultural importance including activities of self-expression and production of handicrafts for a living.

The museum also houses the Bailey Arts Centre, which allows local artists to produce and sell baskets, screen prints, paintings and pottery, among other things. Various exhibition by local artists are often held at the museum, an admission fee is payable to enter the museum

Established in 2019, the Okavango Craft Brewery is Northern Botswana’s first licensed microbrewery. We produce award-winning craft beer from the finest quality ingredients, including locally sourced millet and mineral water from the Okavango Delta. Join us on our journey to brew for conservation and enjoy great craft beer.

 

The 140-acre Elephant Havens orphanage is nestled along the banks of the Gomoti River, at the edge of the Okavango Delta. It is an ideal place for young elephants to live and receive daily care and companionship until they are ready to be reintroduced to the wild. Originally only 45 acres, the sanctuary has tripled in size and now has many amenities for staff and visitors.

We’ve been positively impacting conservation efforts and building healthy communities in Botswana since 2018.

The country’s only elephant orphanage, makes strides toward the preservation of the African elephant by rescuing orphaned and abandoned elephants, reducing human-elephant conflict, and protecting wild habitats from human encroachment.

Day 2 - 3 Exploring Boteti River & Makgadikgadi

Wake up to the sounds of nature at Boteti River Camp, a charming eco-friendly retreat near Makgadikgadi Pans National Park. The Boteti River, a vital lifeline for wildlife, marks the western boundary of the park and attracts large herds of zebra, wildebeest, elephants, and predators like lions and leopards.

Your days will be filled with a mix of morning and afternoon game drives, offering incredible wildlife viewing along the riverbanks and into the national park. Expect to see Africa’s second-largest zebra migration, a spectacle as thousands of animals move between grazing lands.

For a cultural experience, visit a nearby village and school to gain insight into local traditions and daily life. This is a wonderful opportunity to interact with the community and understand the unique coexistence between people and wildlife in the area.

Between activities, unwind at the camp’s viewing deck, which overlooks the Boteti River—a perfect spot to watch animals gathering to drink. You can also relax by the pool, soaking in the tranquility of the Botswana wilderness.

As you travel to and from the Boteti River, you’ll get a glimpse of the vast Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, one of the world’s largest salt flats and home to the Salt Pans Ultra Marathon. This rugged and breathtaking landscape offers a stark contrast to the lush Okavango Delta, showcasing the diverse beauty of Botswana.

Evenings at the camp are best spent under the stars, sharing stories around the fire, and enjoying the sounds of the African night.

One of Botswana’s hidden gems, the Boteti River offers breathtaking scenery and awe-inspiring wildlife sightings as it makes its way across the salt pans.
Overlooking the riverbed, Boteti River Camp is an oasis on the edge of Makgadikgadi National Park, close by the Khumaga entrance gate and within easy reach of Nxai Pan National Park and Central Kalahari Game Reserve.

Offering a striking contrast to the lush waterways of the Okavango Delta, the Boteti River and the western reaches of Makgadikgadi Pans National Park provide a unique and dynamic safari experience, showcasing Botswana’s diverse landscapes and wildlife.

Easily accessible from Maun by light aircraft or tarred road, the Khumaga/Boteti River region offers an off-the-beaten-path adventure, rich in wildlife and natural beauty.

The Boteti River is not a permanent waterway, as its flow depends on seasonal inflows from the Okavango Delta and the Thamalakane River. Regardless of its levels, the river remains a lifeline for wildlife, sustaining large herds of zebra and elephant, as well as community livestock. The surrounding woodlands and riverbanks are home to a spectacular array of birdlife, including bee-eaters, Goliath herons, terns, and the elusive wattled crane. African fish eagles and pied kingfishers are common sights, while owlets can often be heard calling in the acacia trees—sometimes even during fireside conversations at camp.

As the seasonal zebra and wildebeest migration moves across Botswana, the Boteti River and Khumaga area become a hub of activity, with thousands of animals gathering to drink and graze. This movement is part of a complex migratory pattern stretching from Nxai Pan, Savuti, and Chobe in the north to the southern Makgadikgadi Pans, covering vast distances in search of fresh grazing.

Predicting the exact timing of this wildlife spectacle is challenging, as migration is driven by rainfall patterns and instinct, much like the Serengeti migration. However, a general rule of thumb is that the drier it is in Makgadikgadi and Nxai Pan, the more likely you are to witness thousands of animals congregating along the Boteti River—an unforgettable safari experience.

day 4 / 5 / 6 - Salt Pans Ultra marathon

Friday: Your journey begins in the morning as you leave the wild and rugged landscapes of the Boteti River. Traveling along the southern edge of the vast Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, you’ll witness the striking transition from riverine woodland to the endless, white expanse of the pans. Upon arrival at the Salt Pans Ultra Marathon Camp, take the day to settle in, explore the unique surroundings, and soak in the otherworldly beauty of this remote wilderness. Use this time to relax, hydrate, and mentally prepare for the big race ahead. As the sun sets over the pans, enjoy a sundownder at our race briefing in the pans and an dinner under the stars before turning in for an early night—ready for the adventure that awaits at dawn.

Saturday: The moment you’ve been training for has arrived—race day at the Salt Pans Ultra Marathon 2025! Either under the stars or as the first light breaks over the horizon, runners will set off across the seemingly endless expanse of the pans, testing their endurance in one of the most unique ultra marathons in the world. Whether you’re tackling the 50km or the grueling 100km distance, you’ll experience the raw beauty of this untouched landscape, with mirages dancing in the distance. The race is as much a mental challenge as a physical one, pushing you to your limits in an environment unlike any other. After crossing the finish line, celebrate your achievement with fellow runners and enjoy a well-earned evening of rest and camaraderie at the camp.

Sunday: After an early breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to the salt pans. We’ll transfer you back to Maun, where you will spend the night at the Sedia Hotel. Here, you can unwind and recover from the race. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and reflect on your incredible ultra marathon experience. If you’re up for more adventure, optional activities such as a visit at Elephant Haven, a Sightseeing Tour through Maun or dinner at the German Brauhouse can be arranged.

Day 7 - 10 african culture Journey / Mobile Safari

Embark on a captivating 4-day / 3-night expedition with African Culture Journeys, journeying from Maun through the iconic Moremi Game Reserve to Khwai Village in the North of Moremi.

This safari adventure offers unparalleled game viewing opportunities in both Moremi and the Khwai Conservation Area. Immerse yourself in the heart of the wilderness as you partake in guided bush walks, gaining insights into the rich biodiversity of the region.

Additionally, experience the traditional modes of transportation in the Delta. In cooperation with local community a poler from the Khwai village will bring you by Mokoro deeper into the Delta. 

Moremi Game Reserve is a protected area in Botswana. It lies on the eastern side of the Okavango Delta and was named after Chief Moremi of the BaTawana tribe.

Moremi was designated as a game reserve, rather than a national park, when it was created. 

Location and setting
Moremi Game Reserve is just under 5,000 square kilometres (1,900 sq mi) in extent, covering much of the eastern side of the Okavango Delta and combining permanent water with drier areas, which create some startling and unexpected contrasts.

Some prominent geographical features of the Reserve are Chiefs Island and the Moremi Tongue. In the Moremi Reserve one can experience excellent views of savannah game as well as bird-watching on the lagoons. There are also thickly wooded areas, which are home to the Cape wild dog and leopard. To the northeast lies the Chobe National Park which borders the Moremi Game Reserve. Only about 30% of the reserve is mainland, with the bulk being within the Okavango Delta itself.

Situated on the banks of the Khwai River near the famous Okavango swamp, the village of Khwai is set in the North-West District of Botswana.

The village fringes the magnificent Moremi Game Reserve which is known for its incredible array of wildlife. It serves as a gateway to the reserve as it is set just outside the North Gate. of Moremi. Khwai provides an excellent base from which to explore the spectacularly scenic surrounding area.

It is to be home to some of Botswana's most beautiful landscapes which feature vast grass plains, a patchwork of lagoons, shallow pans and lush woodland forests. Visitor can look forward to spotting a fantastic variety of wildlife, learning about the San community and enjoying a wide selection of ecotourism activities.

Commonly spotted wildlife species include: lion, leopard, elephant, cheetah, hippo, wild dog and buffalo.

Located between the Chobe National Park and the Moremi Game Reserve in Botswana, the 200 000-hectare Khwai Conservancy is an enthralling place of wild landscapes and abundant wildlife.

The plentiful Khwai River running through the park and dense Mopani forests in the interior provide the perfect home for numerous animals, and the incredible scenes of animals drinking from the river allow for superb photography opportunities.

Visitors can look forward to seeing large elephant herds, and spotting lions, leopards and hyenas quite easily. Other species include wild dog, zebra, giraffe, wildebeest, buffalo, lions, cheetahs, leopard, hyenas, hippos, Kudu, Tsessebe, and reasonably rare Roan and Sable. Hiking, game drives, guided walks, spa treatments, and open-air camping are just some of the activities on offer.

The Okavango Delta in Botswana is a vast inland delta formed where the Okavango River reaches a tectonic trough at an altitude of 930–1,000 m in the central part of the endorheic basin of the Kalahari.

It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the few interior delta systems that do not flow into a sea or ocean, with a wetland system that is largely intact. All the water reaching the delta is ultimately evaporated and transpired. Each year, about 11 cubic kilometres (2.6 cu mi) of water spreads over the 6,000–15,000 km2 (2,300–5,800 sq mi) area. Some flood waters drain into Lake Ngami. The area was once part of Lake Makgadikgadi, an ancient lake that had mostly dried up. 

The delta was named one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa, which were officially declared on 11 February 2013 in Arusha, Tanzania. On 22 June 2014, the Okavango Delta became the 1000th site to be officially inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Day 10 - Rest day in Maun

Upon arrival back in Maun you can opt for a leisurely day at the pool at Sedia Hotel, or alternatively, join us for a guided tour of Maun, where you’ll have the opportunity to explore local cuisine or learn more about local art at the Nhabe Museum.

For those interested, we offer an optional excursion to Elephant Haven, a sanctuary dedicated to caring for orphaned elephants that have lost their families. It’s a unique opportunity to witness firsthand the incredible work being done to protect and rehabilitate these majestic creatures.

The 140-acre Elephant Havens orphanage is nestled along the banks of the Gomoti River, at the edge of the Okavango Delta. It is an ideal place for young elephants to live and receive daily care and companionship until they are ready to be reintroduced to the wild. Originally only 45 acres, the sanctuary has tripled in size and now has many amenities for staff and visitors.

We’ve been positively impacting conservation efforts and building healthy communities in Botswana since 2018.

The country’s only elephant orphanage, makes strides toward the preservation of the African elephant by rescuing orphaned and abandoned elephants, reducing human-elephant conflict, and protecting wild habitats from human encroachment.

Day 11- Departure

For added convenience, airport transfers is arranged upon booking. Kindly confirm your arrangements with the hotel to ensure a smooth departure.

Maun International Airport(FBMN) is located within Maun Town boundaries, in the North West District, and is about one and half hours flight from Gaborone and two hour from Johannesburg. The airport is open to both domestic and international traffic, and mainly serves as the gateway for tourists visiting the world famous Okavango Delta.

Maun International Airport is the second busiest airport in Botswana in terms of passenger traffic from Sir Seretse Khama International Airport and the base for tourist activities in the Okavango area and other parts of North West District.

In terms of aircraft movements (majority of which are short-hop flights to and from airfields in the Delta) Maun International Airport is ranked top airport in Africa, i.e. excluding the number-one-ranked OR Tambo International, of South Africa.

The airport functions as a hub for small single and twin-engine aircraft feeding mainline carriers.

No Tears in the Salt Pans

Read the article from Carla Farina. 

She’s a Hoka ONE ONE runner, our Salt Pans Ultra Race Ambassador and also writes a monthly column in the South African running magazine “Trail MisAdventures”.

You can read the article here:

Racecheck Gold Award 2024 for Salt Pans Ultra Marathon

We’re incredibly proud to announce that the Salt Pans Ultra 2024 has again been awarded the Racecheck Gold Award, with an impressive 4.93-star average rating from over 50 reviews! This milestone brings us closer to earning a spot among the Top Rated Races on Racecheck, a platform dedicated to helping athletes find, review, and choose the best endurance events worldwide.

Ranked 13th out of 1,750 off-road running races in 2024 we are high in the Top 1% of races.

Racecheck connects a global community of runners, cyclists, and triathletes, allowing them to share race experiences and recognize events that truly stand out. Achieving this award reflects the passion and commitment of everyone involved—from participants to volunteers, to our dedicated team behind the scenes.

Thank you to each and every one of you who voted and helped make this possible. We look forward to creating even more memorable moments together at future events!

Jodie Russell's Remarkable Victory at the 2024 Salt Pans Ultra 50km

In a stunning display of endurance and speed, Jodie Russell claimed first place in the 2024 Salt Pans Ultra 50km, finishing with an impressive time of 5 hours and 35 minutes—just 3 minutes shy of the course’s fastest record. Known for its demanding terrain across Botswana’s vast salt flats, the Salt Pans Ultra is a true test for any ultra-runner, and Russell rose to the challenge with grit and determination.

Russell’s near-record time is a testament to her relentless training and racing prowess, as she maneuvered through the rugged landscape with an impressive pace and strategic precision. The Salt Pans’ harsh environment, with its expansive, barren flats and ever-changing weather conditions, tested every runner, but Russell stayed focused, drawing strength from the raw beauty and challenge of the terrain.

After the race, Russell shared her excitement about her win and the unforgettable experience. “Running on the salt pans is unlike anything else—it’s challenging, yet incredibly rewarding,” she said. “It was just me and the elements out there, and that pushed me to dig deeper.”

Congratulations to Jodie Russell on her outstanding performance in the Salt Pans Ultra 50km! Her remarkable achievement brings her within reach of the course’s fastest time, setting the stage for future challenges and inspiring the ultra-running community.

Tyler Rocha Shatters Record to Win 2024 Salt Pans Ultra 100km

Tyler Rocha shattered the Salt Pans Ultra 100km record with an impressive 11:37 finish in 2024. The grueling course, softened by the absence of mud this year, allowed Rocha to push limits and set a new benchmark. Battling winds and the vast salt flats, the ultra runner effort’s are all the more impressive as he is new to the sport.

In his post-race interview, Rocha expressed gratitude for the support from fans, fellow runners, and his team. He also credited the unique beauty and challenging terrain of the Salt Pans for pushing him to reach new levels in his performance. “There’s something about the salt pans that pulls you in,” he shared. “It’s humbling, but it’s also inspiring. It makes you give everything.”
Congratulations to Tyler Rocha on this incredible achievement! His record-breaking time is sure to be celebrated by the ultra-running community and will serve as a high benchmark for future competitors aiming to tackle the Salt Pans Ultra.