Organized tour or independent travel?

Hi all,

I will be in Gaborone for work in May/June and am trying to plan a short trip (7-10 days) around Botswana afterward. I am interested in seeing the main sights: Okavango/Moremi, Chobe, Vic Falls, and possibly Makgadikgadi pans. I'm trying to decide between joining an organized tour (Africa Travel Co or something similar?) and getting between towns on public transit and then organizing shorter trips (2-3 days) into Chobe and Okavango once on the ground in Maun/Kasane. Does anyone have experience with this type of travel in Botswana? Would I save any money on my own or would it be more hassle than its worth?

Budget is my biggest concern, I'd like to stay as close to $1000 as possible (I know that might be tricky...). I don't expect luxury and would be more than happy camping. Renting a car is not really an option as I will be traveling alone and have no 4x4 experience.

Any advice/ input would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks!

Thanks for your input!

I have decided to join a tour group/ mobile safari going from Maun to Livingstone. Can anyone advise me on getting from Livingstone back to Gaborone or Maun by bus? How much will it cost and how long would it take? I looked into flying, but I can't seem to find any direct flights...

Here's our experience with Kasane to Pretoria via Gabarone in 2009

Clair, I'll be working in Gaborone in June. Let me know if you want to meet up, or if you need any help (I can offer the little knowledge I have).