Archive for the ‘Botswana Lodges’ Category

Savute Under Canvas is a semi-permanent tented camp that moves to a different site every 5-6 days to meet the Chobe National Park regulations, ensuring that game drives always explore new areas. The sites are always located near watering holes, providing an ideal short-term base to observe high levels of wildlife activity. Savute Under Canvas combines all the advantages of mobile camping, in secluded remote areas, with very little contact with other tourists or vehicles to disturb your holiday in the remote wilderness. Guests can be certain Savute Under Canvas luxury and adventure will stay with them throughout their stay.

Savute Under Canvas is accessed by fly in charter flights from Maun or Kasane. Guests will arrive at the Savute airstrip and then be transferred by 4×4 vehicles to the camp.

The Savute (or Savuti) Channel, was once a dry, open grassland where numerous antelope and plains game congregated attracting abundant predator populations. For several decades the river remained dry until 2008 when Botswana’s strong seismic activity combined with an outstanding flood season caused the river to once again come to life. With the water back in the area game and wildlife enthusiasts are discovering the treasures of the Savute once again.

Guests to Savute Under Canvas can expect a simple kitchen that produces top camp cuisine. Breakfast and lunch are generally mixed with the day’s activities and the evening settles in with a drink around the camp fire. Guests will have a choice between wines, beers, spirits and soft drinks all to be enjoyed with your 3-course dinner.

Savute Under Canvas Accommodation

Savute Under Canvas is a camp comprising of 5 spacious, walk-in tents with en-suite bathroom, flush toilet, shaving mirror, tin basin, water jug and a selection of complimentary soaps. Each tent is furnished with a comfortable double bed and sisal matting covering the floor. Guests will find light during the night with the rechargeable lanterns provided to all the tents. Clothes can be hung in the canvas wardrobe and luggage chest.

A rolled-up canvas doorway leads from your bathroom to the bucket shower. Hot water is supplied to all tents after the day’s activities. Being places near waterholes, a variety of game tend to be seen from the comforts of your tent verandah.

Savute Under Canvas Activities

Activities at Savute Under Canvas revolve around wildlife viewing. Guests will be led by knowledgeable and professionally trained guides. Savute Under Canvas is particularly well known for large herds of migrating zebra in the summer months, and huge herds of elephant. This region is also known for high concentrations of predators, especially lion. Leopard, cheetah and African wild dog are also common sights. Hippo and crocs are expected to make a comeback in the river.

Savute is also a famous battleground for lion and spotted hyena whose ongoing fight for dominance has been captured in the brilliant National Geographic documentary film Eternal Enemies filmed by Deryck and Beverly Joubert.

Birders have the opportunity to see fish eagle, pied kingfishers, egrets and a variety of wading birds in addition to many other species.

Game Drives at Savute Under Canvas

Morning or afternoon safari in open-sided 4×4 vehicles, are conducted around the known wildlife areas of Savute, including the marsh.

Rock Art

A trip to the ancient San rock paintings at Gubatsa Hills is worth a visit.

 

Why stay at Savute Under Canvas

• In the Savute corner of the game-rich Chobe National Park, which hosts the annual zebra migration
• Fully staffed mobile tents at private wilderness campsites
• Dine beneath the stars with friendly butler service
• Camp in comfort with en-suite bathrooms and al fresco hot bucket showers

Savute Under Canvas is an undeniably high quality operation and definitely the best accommodation option in the area. The greater question is whether guests interested in this type of accommodation should be staying here or combining it with a visit to a private game concession in the Okavango or Linyanti.

 

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Oddballs Camp is situated on the edge of Chief’s Island in the Moremi Game Reserve, deep in the heart of the Okavango Delta. Oddballs Camp is accessible by light aircraft charter only. Accommodation is in dome tents, fully equipped, and set on elevated wooden decks shaded by reed shelters. The tents at Oddballs Camp are the same tents used by the majority of mobile operators in Botswana. Each tent has its own rustic bathroom, consisting of basin, toilet and shower.  This camp offers very basic accommodation and is not a luxury establishment, but is very popular all the same.

The Moremi Game Reserve is considered to be one of the continent’s outstanding wildlife sanctuaries and at 4,871 km², covers a considerable section of the Okavango Delta. It consists of an impressive variety of habitats that support enormous concentrations of wildlife, including one of the largest populations of the endangered African wild dog.

Vegetation is dominated by mopane tree canopies on the dry lands of the Moremi. The remainder of the reserve is a combination of floodplain grasses, sandveld, riverine woodland, as well as areas of permanent delta. The animals here are both numerous and somewhat more relaxed than they once were. Finding safety in numbers (and the end of indiscriminate hunting) allows vehicles to approach quite closely.

Oddballs Camp Quick Facts

LOCATION: Oddballs Camp is situated on the edge of Chief’s Island, deep in the heart of the Okavango Delta.

THE FOCUS: Oddballs Camp offers an extraordinary value-for-money experience in the Okavango Delta.  Activities are conducted by your own professional guide (a maximum of two guests per guide), a man of the swamp, born and bred in the area.

ACCESS: Serviced by Delta Air – a 20-minute flight from Maun.

CATEGORY OF SAFARI EXPERIENCE: Oddballs Camp is a water camp with bush walks and mokoro excursions.

ACCOMMODATION: Oddballs Camp accommodates 28 guests in 14 dome tents, fully equipped, and set on elevated wooden decks shaded by reed shelters. These tents are the same tents used by most mobile operators in Botswana. Each tent has its own beautiful outdoor shower, hand basin and flush toilet.

ACTIVITIES: Daily walks and mokoro excursions with your own professional guide

CHILDREN: are welcome at Oddballs Camp.

RATES: Rates are offered on a full board with activities basis.

 

Oddballs Camp Accommodation

Guests to Oddballs Camp will be accommodated in dome tents set on elevated wooden decks and shaded by reed shelters and trees. Each tent is equipped with bedding, a storage trunk and a light. Visitors looking for a more “down to earth” experience will especially like the outdoor showers as they provide both privacy and beautiful views. Each tent is en-suite.

• 14 x (2m x 2m) domed tents: These tents at Oddballs Camp are all raised on wooden decks and set in shady areas. Each tent is equipped with a mattress, bedding and a light. They also have individual rustic bathrooms consisting of a bucket shower, wash basin and toilet.
• 1 Honeymoon Suite: A chalet built out of reeds with its own en-suite toilet and hot water shower facilities. This is ideal for a rustic romantic getaway or for the more mature traveler who desires the Oddballs Camp experience.

Visitors to Oddballs Camp can relax at the central bar and lounge area that has comfortable chairs and sofas perched on an elevated deck overlooking the delta. It is a fantastic spot to watch the sunset over the plams and view wildlife at the water’s edge at the same time. It is also here you will find an extensive library and games.

Set a few hundred meters to the south of Oddballs Camp is ‘The Enclave’ which opened in June 2009. It is a small but intimate hideaway that affords some dramatic views of the surrounding floodplains. It consists of 5 x comfortable tents, each with twin beds, en-suite facilities and a rustic décor in remembrance of the Hemmingway journey ‘when safaris were a real adventure’.

The enclave has its own dedicated cook and host and each tent is assigned a personal guide, the focus being on mokoro and walking trails. This is an ideal alternative to the main camp and is perfect for family gatherings, networking or for business ‘character building’ excursions.

Oddballs Camp Activities

Activities at Oddballs Camp tend to revolve around boat trips, (water levels permitting) and walking safaris. All excursions are led by your own knowledgeable and professional guide (a maximum of two guests per guide), a local who was born and bred in the area.

Mokoro Excursions

Cruise the waterways and channels on a relaxing afternoon trip takes visitors into the further reaches of the delta. The duration is usually around 2-3 hours, depending on the wildlife and riverine activity.

A Full Mokoro Trail

For those who can stay at Oddballs Camp for a minimum of 4 nights, this trail allows explorers to spend nights 2 and 3 in the bush. You will be guided all the way – 1 guide per 2 guests. All of your camping equipment is provided which includes a 2m x 2m tent, mattresses, cutlery, crockery, pots and pans, BBQ grid and cooler box all packed into your mokoro as you set off with your guide to sleep under the stars as the nearby wildlife do.

Walking Safaris

Oddballs Camp offer walking safaris on Chief’s Island. They are usually conducted in the early morning and at a suitable pace. There is a 2 to 1 ratio of guests to guides. Trails last around 3 hours. In the cooler months many walkers prefer to stay out a bit longer and take a delicious picnic lunch.

Your walking safari will take you along winding channels lined with reeds, into the Moremi Game Reserve, an area famous for its diverse bird and animal life. Your personal guide may take you into his village, meet the elders and perhaps his family.

Oddballs Camp Eco-Friendly Practices

Oddballs Camp is powered by solar panels and where possible their water is heated in a similar fashion. As a result the camp compromises guests’ creature comforts such as air-conditioning and unlimited supplies of ice. Their mission is to provide the most authentic experience with the least amount of pollution – including noise pollution from diesel powered generators – to keep peoples impact upon the environment to a bare minimum and for this Wild Safari Africa recommends Oddballs Camp.

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Delta Camp has remained true to its original mission to remain committed to deliver authentic, classic Okavango Delta safaris. Once a pioneering camp that lead the way for others, today Delta Camp is a luxurious experience in a stunning, world-class environment. At Delta Camp there are no game drive vehicles, instead guests to Delta Camp travel as the locals do by traditional dugout canoes (mokoro) and the focus here is on bush walks on nearby Chief’s Island, a distinguished paradise home to abundant game populations.

The Okavango Delta is a shifting web of crystal clear channels, lagoons, sweeping floodplains and palm grove islands. This world-class environment is home to over 450 species of bird, 1,000 plant species, crocodiles, hippo, elephant, buffalo, a wide variety of big game and several species of antelope that are among the world’s rarest, occur here in the Okavango Delta. This pristine wilderness has remained and continued to uphold its reputation as one of the worlds, and certainly in the top of all Africa, premier wilderness areas.

What separates Delta Camp from the others? Delta Camp is unique in the fact that each chalet receives their own private guide. Delta Camp has integrated the local sustainability program by utilizing the local upliftment Young Guides program where an apprentice from the local village comes along as an assistant to the Senior guide as an opportunity to learn, practice and put to good use their local knowledge. So in actuality, there is a 1-to-1 guide to guest ratio during the escorted excursions.

Delta Camp Quick Reference

LOCATION: Situated on the South Western edge of Chief’s Island in the heart of the Okavango Delta.

THE FOCUS: Is on peace and tranquility (stalking game on foot provides all the excitement one could wish for) and guests are actively encouraged to visit the local village, home to the guides, and to interact with the people there.

ACCESS: Serviced by Delta Camp Airstrip – only Delta Air is allowed to land. A 20 minute flight from Maun.

CATEGORY OF SAFARI EXPERIENCE: Predominantly a Water Camp with walks on Islands. At Delta Camp we still use the traditional mokoro (dug-out canoe).

ACCOMMODATION: We accommodate 14 guests in 7 luxury chalets, built from reed and wood. The chalets are raised. Each chalet has a shower, WC and basin.

ACTIVITIES:
- Private mokoro (traditional dugout canoe) – included in nightly rate
- Private guided walks – included in nightly rate
- Camping and sleep outs in the surrounding area on a 4 night or more booking – Chief’s Island Walking Trail.
- Cultural interaction at an authentic Okavango Delta village where our staff live

CHILDREN: of all ages are most welcome, we have two family units.

RATES: Rates are fully inclusive of local brand drinks and all activities.

Delta Camp Accommodation

Perched on a spectacular island overlooking a flooded channel and plains with Chief’s Island in view, Delta Camp is a spectacular choice. Delta Camp only accommodates for a maximum of 16 guests in spacious “lethaka” reed chalets with en-suite bathrooms. Constructed from natural, local materials and elevated off the forest floor, each chalet has hot and cold running water, a shower (with a view!), and solar-powered electric lighting.

Guests to Delta Camp looking for something more can stay in the camps one and only multi-level en-suite tree house.

Delta Camp is an eco-friendly establishment. The camp owner is also the owner of Delta Air, the charter flight company that typically taxis guests between camps and specifically to this camp. At Air Delta they calculate the carbon output of their flights and offset this on a monthly basis. How? Delta Air specifically instructs their pilots to keep idling to a minimum and to keep taxi distances as short as possible. In addition, the airstrip at Delta Camp has NOT been treated by harmful chemicals (known poisons that are especially harmful to aquatic species) as is standard in most Botswana airstrips.

Neighboring Sedibana village collects the beer and soda cans for use in construction of their buildings. Delta Camp uses lanterns and solar power as an alternative to a petrol powered generator. Delta Camp prides itself on hiring, training, and employing the local population from the local village.

Delta Camp Activities

Kindly note, Delta Camp does not allow motorized activities in or around the camp. No game drive vehicles and no powerboats.

There is no better way to experience the Okavango Delta than to glide across its gentle waters by traditional canoe, mokoro, the local mode of transportation. Unlike a great deal of other camps, Delta Camp still uses authentic canoes that have been hand-carved from Ebony and Sausage trees native to the area.

Guests are delighted by walking safaris to really connect with the land. The pace is easy and your guide is able to explain in great detail the very minute details you’d otherwise walk past without notice. In this area it is common to view big game on foot. The wildlife is accustomed to people on foot opening up fantastic opportunities for unique interactions.

Guests to Delta Camp have a wonderful opportunity to travel by mokoro to the villages where the staff and guides are from. This is not a tourist designed interaction and is the most authentic experience. Your guide may take you to his home and introduce you to his family and friends. This is an excellent glimpse into the daily lives of the local culture and comes highly recommended.

All said and done, Delta Camp is an excellent choice for travelers looking for twice daily non-motorized game excursions into the Moremi Game Reserve, for those who like an intimate experience with a local guide and would really like to delve into the eco-systems and wildlife of the area. Delta Camp is most unique.

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Sandibe Safari Lodge is located beside the Santantadibe River, from where the lodge gets its name, a deep, wide channel that leads to a number of extraordinary lagoons. The lodge is situated in the Chitabe Concession Area (also known as NG 31) an area of 28,000km² in the heart of the world-class Okavango Delta.

Guests to Sandibe Safari Lodge are quickly familiarized by the dry plains that are transformed into a flourishing oasis by seasonal floods, creating a sensational diversity of flora and fauna. In this area, visitors are presented the opportunity to enjoy spectacular wildlife viewing and birding. The game viewing gets better when the area springs to life with the onset of floods and rains.

Travelers to Sandibe Safari Lodge are chartered in by small aircraft to the Chitabe Airstrip. From there guests are transferred by vehicle along a 30 minute game drive. In the event visitors are staying at either Chitabe Camp or Chitabe Lediba, they can also transfer by road to Sandibe Safari Lodge.

Sandibe Safari Lodge

The main lodge at Sandibe Safari Lodge is an impressive 2 storey traditional barn structure. On the ground level there is an inviting lounge area, with a well-stocked help-yourself fridge. Opposite is a covered dining area where guests are often found relaxing and socializing. The entire lodge is furnished with African décor, and the traditional reed baskets were made by the Sandibe Safari Lodge local staff members. The stairs to the first floor open out to a sitting area of comfortable chairs and sofas. Here guests will find the best view of the resident colony of epauletted fruit bats that hang in the rafters.

There is a curio shop on site selling a range of goods – traditional baskets, jewelry, African wood carvings, hats, t-shirts, and toiletries.

Just down from the lodge guests will find the small splash pool, built into a shaded raised deck, with lounge chairs, a perfect area to relax and cool off.

Why Visit Sandibe Safari Lodge?

• Situated in the oasis of the Okavango Delta, the world’s largest inland delta
• Track the Big Five, as well as the semi-acquatic lechwe and sitatunga antelope
• Day and night safaris, bush walks, mokoro and powerboat cruises
• Close to Moremi Game Reserve, so better chance of spotting the Big Five than most other Okavango lodges

Sandibe Safari Lodge Meals

Guests to Sandibe Safari Lodge will be served a light breakfast of toast, freshly-cooked muffins, fruit, cereal and tea and coffee, all served before the morning game activities. A substantial hot brunch is offered around 11h00.

Afternoon tea is served at 16h00. Expect a savory snack, refreshing iced tea, and a freshly baked cake or pie. Depending on the weather, a lamp-lit dinner is served in the boma with a choice of main dishes every night.

Sandibe Safari Lodge Accommodation

Sandibe Safari Lodge accommodation is in 8 spacious stone, cottage-style rooms, elevated on separate viewing decks and all are river facing. They have been constructed under a canopy of trees, but are high enough to look out over the surrounding bush and reed beds.

Each room is equipped with en-suite bathrooms, flushing toilet, outside shower, mosquito nets, electric lamps, writing desk, storage and hanging space, fans and safes are standard. Soaps and scrubs, shampoo, gel and conditioner, are all provided. Guests will also find mosquito repellents and various other insect repellents. It is strongly advised to not leave anything in the showers, or the baboons will take it for themselves.

Sandibe Safari Lodge Activities

The activities at Sandibe Safari Lodge concentrate heavily on wildlife viewing. Buffalo, elephant and lion are all found in abundance with the occasional sighting of the African wild dog. The large herds of impala attract leopard and if your luck is right, you might just see one.

Sandibe Safari Lodge is well known for offering flexible departure times for their activities.

Activities include:

Birding

This is a great area for raptors including African hawk eagle and the hooded vulture, which often nest on the island. Ground hornbill, greater honeyguide, scarlet-chested sunbird, red-billed hornbill, gabar goshawk and coveys of red-billed francolin are also around. The greater honeyguide is known to lead humans to bees’ nests in the hope of a favorable return.

Game Drives

Morning and afternoon game drives in open-sided 4×4 safari vehicles are complemented with night drives, an opportunity to view some of the more unusual nocturnal creatures.

Boat Trips

‘Glide as they guide’ on a specially-designed ‘silent’ electric boat along the permanent waterways of the Delta. An equally exciting mode of transport is by mokoro, a ‘dug-out’ canoe, propelled and guided by a poler, a local guy who’s expertise and knowledge will lead you on a mini-adventure in the Delta.

Bush Walks

Walking around the bush is just as dramatic as game viewing by vehicle or boat. Knowledgeable and professional guides will follow tracks and spoors, leading you through the bush in search of interesting wildlife.

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Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp is a luxury tented river camp located on its own Delta island within a 25,000 hectare private wildlife concession, (the old hunting area NG29). It is built on the site of the old Rann’s Camp. There are no permanent buildings at Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp, the facilities are all under canvas. Located in the same private concession area is its sister lodge, Xudum Okavango Delta Lodge.

The Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp island is situated in an area of permanent swamp in the Okavango Delta. Islands can be formed in a number of ways; some originate from termite mounds, whilst others are formed as a result of raised channel beds. Not only do the islands contribute to the stunning impression of the landscape, they also provide a permanent dry environment, therefore adding to the diversity of species found in the Delta.

Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp is set in a band of well-defined vegetation, but has been well-positioned to maximize the best views across the water channels and surrounding tree lines to ensure guests optimal chance to spot marauding wildlife. Wild date palm, sycamore fig, jackalberry and knobthorn are amongst the trees that line the horizon.

Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp is accessed by a fly-in charter flight from either Maun or Kasane airports (For more about Fly In Safaris in Botswana click here). Once off the charter plane guest will be transferred by boat through an exhilarating ride along a watery labyrinth of papyrus-bordered channels and floating islands of water lily pads, and across the lagoon for the final stretch until reaching Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp. Guests disembark at the dock and are greeted by a pod of carved wood hippos, standing guard on the stairs leading to a pale tented pavilion, the main lodge area.

Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp

Guests at Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp relax in the spacious lounge elevated on a wooden platform, opened on all sides to enjoy the stunning patchwork of lagoons and channel that envelope the camp. The guest area has a spacious reading zone, ideal for post-activity relaxation. The gift shop situated within the main lodge area, displays Xaranna branded safari clothing, a variety of wood carvings, antique trinkets, local crafts and jewelry, and a small selection of safari-related books.

Although Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp doesn’t have a dedicated spa facility, a licensed masseuse offers a range of treatment options including Swedish and aromatherapy massages in the guest tents upon request.

Guests can expect a breakfast buffet served before the morning game drive, consisting of cereals, yoghurt, fruit, freshly baked bread, fruit juices, tea and coffee. A full English breakfast is available upon request. Lunch is an assortment of cold meat dishes and salads, breads and a tray of cheeses. Afternoon tea is served around 16h00 just before the afternoon activities – a combination of savory snacks and cakes with tea, coffee and juices.

Dinner is a three-course affair, served with a variety of starters, followed by a choice of game meats or fish and vegetables. Delicious deserts are served afterwards, including a rich chocolate fondue (and much more!), complemented with branded alcoholic beverages, such as vintage wines, French champagnes and luxury whiskies.

Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp Accommodation

Accommodation at Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp is in 9 luxury safari tents, designed and decorated in natural colors. The outer walls are made of mesh screening and canvas shades which can be lowered for privacy. A sliding front door opens out onto a long foyer, separated from the bedroom by a wooden partition. At the far right of the entrance hallway, a counter-height stand holds bar utensils and boxed snacks. An ice chest cools an assortment of cold drinks.

Guests can relax under the sounds of nature in a king-sized bed, comforted by remote-controlled overhead air-conditioning, writing table and chair, electronic safe, private plunge pool, indoor bathtub and al fresco shower. There is also an intercom handset to communicate with the main lodge in the need of personal attention.

Additional comforts worth mentioning include a hair-dryer, cotton bath and hand towels, wash-cloths, his and hers cotton sarongs, bathrobes, slippers and pool towels and a comprehensive supply of soaps, bath oils, shampoo and moisturizing creams. Mosquito and insect repellents, flash-lights, an emergency horn and two umbrellas complete the luxuries. Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp is not your “roughing it” type camping experience.

For those who like to keep up on their health while on holiday, a wicker ‘tote bag’ comes complete with a variety of exercise equipment, including a yoga mat, elastic ropes, and 2 sets of weights.

Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp Activities

Wildlife is abundant, varied and very much in close attendance. Elephant and buffalo dominate and lion, cheetah, and the African wild dog are constantly on the look-out for unsuspecting red lechwe and the shy sitatunga. The camps guides have an excellent track record for finding leopard, especially in trees, although this is not guaranteed. The deeper lagoons and channels are home to pods of hippo. Look out for the painted reed frog, a tiny brightly colored amphibian (the guides will help point this peaceful creature out). It has a white body, streaked, spotted or blotched in red and black. They can be found in great numbers in reed beds and flooded grass plains on the edges of lagoons and pans during your mokoro excursions.

Guests to Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp have the opportunity to enjoy…

• Boat Trips

Cruise the Delta in their electrically powered ‘eco-boat’ or by the more traditional mokoro (dug-out canoe).

• Game Drives

Twice daily (morning and afternoon) game drives are conducted in open-sided 4×4 safari vehicles

• Birdwatching

The Delta is an ornithologists dream. Photographic opportunities are endless.

• Bush Walk

Ramble around the island on a guided bush walk. The chances of sneaking up on something big are excellent, and you don’t disturb the animals this way.

Birding highlights include Pel’s fishing owl, Verreaux’s eagle owl, bateleur, wattled cranes, green pigeons and various variety of kingfisher.

Although there is big game in the area, Xaranna is more of a ‘Delta waterway experience’. Water and wildlife trips are the camps specialty.

If you’re looking for a luxurious and secluded (it is important to note the camp only holds a maximum of 18 guests at any given time) experience in the Okavango Delta then Xaranna Okavango Delta is a prime choice. Don’t hesitate to contact us regarding questions and inquiries.

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Camp Savuti located within Chobe National Park in northern Botswana offers guests a touch of intimacy and comfort without the over indulgence and high price tags that are commonly associated with the area. The Savuti area has developed a reputation over the years as a prime area to view predators, especially lion and spotted hyena and Camp Savuti is at the heart of all this action. The area surrounding Camp Savuti boasts one of the highest concentrations of wildlife on the African continent and leaves visitors with outstanding stories and lasting memories.

The Savuti Channel (where the area takes its name), was a flowing river but in 1982 it abruptly stopped flowing. The event was so unusual and mysterious it attracted worldwide attention and was extensively covered by various wildlife documentaries. Then in 2010 the Savuti Channel began flowing once again. Guests to Camp Savuti will have the opportunity to learn the entire story on one of their many game drives.

In 2009 when the Government of Botswana decided to privatize numerous “public campsite” areas, Ren and Connie Mbulawa became the first Botswana citizens to own the camp. Today, Camp Savuti is among the many independent safari camps that offer a more economical approach with an emphasis on personal attention that Wild Safari Africa considers to be a great way to get more bang for your buck.

Camp Savuti Quick Facts:

LOCATION: In the heart of the Chobe National Park on the Savuti Marsh rests Camp Savuti.

THE FOCUS:  The big cats and other predators. If you like Big Cats, Camp Savuti is the place to visit.

ACCESS: By light aircraft via Savuti airstrip, 40 minutes from Maun, 40 minutes from Kasane, 20 -40 minutes from most other lodges in northern Botswana.

CATEGORY OF SAFARI EXPERIENCE: Camp Savuti offers a traditional tented safari with intimate guest areas . A real ‘safari’ experience in a camp established on a dedicated site. These safaris are operated on a FLY-IN basis or self-drive is also possible.

ACCOMMODATION: A maximum of 10 guests in 5 Meru tents with en-suite facilities, including flush toilet and safari shower.

ACTIVITIES: Game drives

CHILDREN: Of all ages are welcome.

RATES: Fully inclusive, including park fees

SOMETHING SPECIAL: The Savuti Channel is flowing again, after 25 years.

 

Camp Savuti Accommodation

Camp Savuti is a small, intimate camp consisting of 5 Meru tents accommodating a MAXIMUM of 10 guests at any given time in comfort and style. The tents have all been positioned to ensure privacy and a modest level of exclusivity throughout the camp and each tent sits on a platform, with stunning views over the Savuti Channel.

The tents are large and spacious with en-suite facilities including flush toilet and the classical safari shower.

When not relaxing near your tent, guests venture to the lounge area where there is a comfortable and intimate guest area, bar and dining area overlooking the Savuti Channel.

Camp Savuti Activities

Camp Savuti is all about utilizing the guide and tracker system to seek out Big Cats and other predators. Game drives enlighten guests with the guides sharing their knowledge about the environment and diversity of nature in the Savuti area. Private vehicles can be arranged at an additional cost.

Our take on Camp Savuti is that it’s the best of the Savuti area at a really affordable price!

 

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Moremi Island Camp is situated in one of Botswana’s most scenic and game rich areas in all of Moremi Game Reserve. Wildlife and birding enthusiast can be certain that this area is special and a large part has to do with being home to the famous Godikwa Heronries. The immediate area surrounding Moremi Island Camp is characterized by large lagoons, water channels and countless islands of all sizes. The Moremi Game Reserve is home to a variety of wildlife big and small and makes for one of the world’s premier wildlife destinations. It is without a doubt one of the very best places to experience the true beauty of the Okavango Delta wilderness.

Moremi Island Camp Accommodation

Imagine the typical stereotype of a Hemmingway safari. Moremi Island Camp is just that. The camp is basic African safari arrangement. Visitors here are most drawn to being away from it all –with the limited comforts of home – and in the heart of nature.

The accommodation at Moremi Island Camp is in 2.4 meter x 2.4 meter bow tents. The tents have Hemmingway en-suite facilities consisting of bucket shower, basin and toilet (all ensure privacy). The camp accommodates a total of 12 guests at any given time thus providing an intimate escape travelers come looking for.

The Moremi Island Camp is what we often refer to as an explorer camp. It has a rustic feel giving guests a real sense of the old world charm that lets adventures prevail. The central guest area consists of a central mess tent, outside fire pit and the 6 tents accommodating the guests. Moremi Island Camp has completely let go of any form of décor thus giving you the opportunity to relax amongst the full spectacle of nature. What better décor could you ask for?

Moremi Island Camp’s impact on the environment is about as low as you can get. This is all intricately designed into the overall experience as we do appreciate and understand the larger consequences of operating on a fragile ecosystem.

Moremi Island Camp Activities

Activities at Moremi Island Camp make the most of the areas many water channels. Guests have the opportunity to get out and explore by traditional mokoro or by small boat. These are often combined with game walks on the larger islands. You will be accompanied with qualified guides at all times to ensure your safety. Big game viewing is presented around every corner, including the rare sitatunga antelope.

Moremi Island Camp is proudly owned and operated by Botswana citizens – at Wild Safari Africa we strongly support citizen tourism ventures in Botswana, as it is the surest way to guarantee the existence and preservation of wilderness areas. To get a full appreciation of this specular region guests should spend 3 nights at Moremi Island Camp.

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Grassland Bushman Lodge is unique from most other lodges and camps you will experience while on a safari in Botswana. Family owned and operated they are proud citizens of Botswana. Apart from the family, the rest of the staff is from the local San (Bushmen) community and most have worked alongside the lodge’s family for several generations. All in all, Grassland Bushman Lodge is best described as a home away from home. Guests can expect a relaxed and informal holiday when staying at Grassland Bushman Lodge.

Grassland Bushman Lodge offers a rare look into life in the Kalahari. Travelers specifically choose Grassland Bushman Lodge to fully delve into both the culture of the people and to see the wildlife.

Scientists have confirmed the San people are the original human culture on earth, dating back some 20-30 thousand years ago. DNA evidence suggests this is the blood line we all descended from.

With the staff at Grassland Bushman Lodge speaking the local dialect, a click language, direct interpretation can facilitate guests through the motions and stories thus making for a truly one-of-a-kind cross-cultural experience.

Grassland Bushman Lodge Accommodation

At Grassland Bushman Lodge, you will be pleasantly surprised by the comfortable chalets, dining facilities, and personable staff. The lodge has 8 very well furnished chalets, each with their private en-suite bathrooms, beds, fans, closets, and dressing table.

The 8 chalets at Grassland Bushman Lodge are constructed of concrete and thatch roofs. This material is very practical and common throughout the Kalahari Desert where temperature fluctuations can be significant between night and day.

There is also a family chalet available.

Each facility is comforted with constant hot water and your laundry is done daily at no extra costs.

The Lounge Area at Grassland Bushman Lodge

The main lounge area is divided into 3 areas: A large lounge and dining room. A covered bar area that also doubles up as a dining area and an outside lounge area which is adjacent to the swimming pool.

The swimming pool is a great activity after a day full of game and cultural excursions.

All of these areas overlook a very well floodlit and extremely active waterhole where the desert comes to life and a large variety of wildlife is viewed from the comfort of easy chairs and the pool. During the evening hours guests find themselves for sundowners by the bricked fire pit to continue their Kalahari wildlife experience. The waterhole is only 50 yards away.

Grassland Bushman Lodge has two eloquent main buildings that feature an outdoor and indoor dining room. Their meals are top of the line and well prepared. They offer 3 meals per day in addition to snacks, mid-day tea and dessert, cold drinks, wine, and a fully stocked bar.

Wildlife at Grassland Bushman Lodge

Guests at the lodge have access to the diversity of wildlife specific to the Kalahari region. You can expect to see populations of eland, kudu, wildebeest, red hartebeest, oryx, and springbok. Bird life is also extremely prolific.

Predators are rarely sighted with the exception of brown hyena. They tend to be a frequent visitor to the waterhole.

Completely exclusive experience to the area is a chance to witness the sandgrouse spectacle (best seen during the dry winter months). Thousands of birds combine together as one gigantic flock and begin swooping over the waterhole for a drink. Something to truly watch for!

Activities at Grassland Bushman Lodge

While the San cross-cultural experience is the definite highlight of the lodge, there are also many other very exciting activities to be shared.

Game Drives

The Central Kalahari rewards those with patience and time with some amazing wildlife. Grasslands Bushman Lodges offers guests the opportunity to explore this world by day and by night. The reserve is well stocked and one can reasonably be expected to see most animals that are endemic to this region such as , springbok, eland, gemsbok, red hartebeest along with gnu, zebra, giraffe and if you are lucky even; lions, cheetah and leopard.
Up to 30% of all Botswana’s wildlife is nocturnal and thus it is essential to be able to offer night drives. At Grasslands Bushman Lodge, we are able to offer night drives with a guide and tracker.

Horseback Riding

By prior arrangement we can take guests out into the Central Kalahari on horseback, we do require that riders have a basic level of proficiency. The duration of the rides pretty much depend on how long guests wish to ride. One of the major advantages of this is that you at times can get really close on horseback to wildlife.

Predator Project

Grassland Safari Lodge is situated on the western side of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. On our western, northern and southern sides of our game area is surrounded by cattle ranches. Predators move from the Central Kalahari Game Reserve to these cattle areas on a very regular basis because of easy prey and water. Farmers in Botswana are allowed to shoot predators at random that hunt their livestock.

We therefore have decided to work hand in hand with the Department of Wildlife and save these predators. Problem predators are captured and kept in semi-captivity at Grassland Safari Lodge in 11 ha camps and we are working on a solution to save these predators. The animals are shown to guests as an activity at no extra cost.

The purpose of having the predators is thus not only to save them from a certain death but also to educate visitors about their dilemma and what projects such as these can do to improve the gene pool of predators in Botswana and to save the rare species such as cheetah and wild dog from extinction.

The predators are fed on donkey meat which is bought from local people all over Botswana. This has the added advantage of supporting the local communities. Donkeys are hugely over-populated in Botswana and pose a severe threat to road safety.

At the moment Grassland Safaris has lions, wild dogs, leopard and cheetah.

Our intention is to re-introduce the predators back into the wild and to breed with the wild dogs and cheetah. Especially in the case of wild dogs, which are under constant threat of canine diseases such as distemper from local dogs in the villages, it is extremely important to maintain a healthy population by breeding in semi-captivity in order to re-introduce them to the wild.

Currently the project is not sponsored but in future, contributions to maintain this valuable program will be much appreciated.

San Cultural Experience

Without any doubt Grasslands Bushman Lodge offers the most comprehensive San ‘Bushman’ experience in Southern Africa. Your hosts are of the few people not borne from San that can actually speak the language; this makes for a very deep understanding and adds significant value as well as authenticity to the experience. The San (bushman) activities are grouped as follows (hunting, gathering, games and rituals). Someone once remarked “the San is the world’s oldest living culture and from the very first time we have made contact they have been trying to teach us how to deal with each other and conservation- pity so few have bothered to listen”

Guided Game Walks

At grasslands Bushman lodge we offer guided walks with professional guide and arguably the world’s best trackers our San trackers! To get to experience the real Africa you need to get the dust of Africa on your boots. Guided walks are NOT a route march but rather follow the pace of the slowest walker, you will soon discover how of Africa you are missing by not walking.

A stay at Grassland Bushman Lodge is truly one-of-a-kind. It’s so much more than just your typical safari experience. The balance of activities transports guests straight into the Kalahari Desert. Adding this lodge to any Botswana itinerary will instantly elevate your travels to new levels. It’s highly recommended for those with a series interest in San culture.

 

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Ichingo Chobe River Lodge is actually on Namibian land but is very close to Chobe National Park in Botswana. Ichingo Chobe River Lodge can easily be combined with most safaris in Botswana or even used as a short side-excursion when staying in the Livingstone area.

Ichingo Chobe River Lodge overlooks the Chobe River on the south side of the Impalila Island at the very eastern tip of Namibia’s Caprivi Strip. Independently owned it has 8 large safari tents amidst the riverine forest.

The main lodge at Inchingo Chobe River Lodge has been constructed over the river, under thatch and set under large, shady trees. There is a lounge and bar area, and home-cooked meals served from the chefs set menu. There is an indoor and outdoor dining area. Dietary requirements can be catered for but must be mentioned in advance.

Guests to Ichingo Chobe River Lodge can relax by the swimming pool and catch some sun on the deck nestled on the edge of the river in this very distinctive African environment.

A short walk along a lush, green pathway, leads to the places of accommodation. All 8 Meru style tents are river facing, en-suite, with wooden doors. Each unit is equipped with cupboards, tables, electric lights, and guaze netting to keep mosquitoes away at night. The balcony overlooks the river and the deck is an exceptional place to bird watch.

Ichingo Chobe River Lodge has a fleet of high quality boats, each with its own dedicated guide, and boat excursions along the river banks offer excellent game viewing opportunities. Large herds of elephant are frequent visitors to the area, bringing with them an assortment of other wildlife including buffalo, giraffe, kudu, waterbuck, puku, lechwe, impala and baboons. Evening sundowner trips are frequently surrounded by elephants, a truly unforgettable experience.

For a truly one-of-a-kind experience many visitors choose to stay a night or two on one of the 2 houseboats, The Ichobezi and Ichobezi Mukwae. The houseboats compliment the lodges experience as each houseboat has 4 cabins that look out onto stunning views of the river. They both have dining area and en-suite shower. The top decks have a plunge pool, bar and lounge, and tender boats for shorter excursions. Both boats also have a crew of 5 including a chef. The food is prepared on the boat.

A popular excursion at Ichingo Chobe River Lodge is the cruise down the Chobe River. Anchor at Elephant Bay, where then the tender boats can take you on a fishing trip. As night falls guests are left with the nights starry skies, with elephants splashing in the water and hippos grunting.

Ichingo Chobe River Lodge, Fishing for Tigerfish

Fishing for tigerfish that thrive in both the Chobe and Zambezi Rivers is a favorite for passionate anglers. With over 100kms of river to be fished the area provides incredible opportunity for gold medal water access. It is undoubtedly the premier tiger fishing waters in all of Africa.

Ichingo Chobe River Lodge is renowned for the quality of its guies and their success in landing tigerfish. No need to worry about carrying tackle across the world as high quality tackle is available for guests.

 

Ichingo Chobe River Lodge Activities 

Guests can partake in excursions by Mokor dugout canoe into the small islands of the Chobe River as long as the water levels are high enough.

Other activities include island walks to local villages where you can gain insight into traditional African life.

• Game drives into Chobe National Park.
• Scenic flights over Chobe N.P. and Victoria Falls.

Guests to Inchingo Chobe River Lodge should be aware there is no land-line on the island, but cell phone reception is possible with a Botswana SIM card.

If you are planning to travel to this lodge you will be transferred from Kasane Immigration by boat to the lodge, where secure parking is available. The lodge has its own airstrip on the island, and a plane is available for scenic flights over the area and on to Victoria Falls.

This is the perfect combination for anglers and family who prefer simple relaxation and natural beauty.

 

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Chobe Game Lodge is the only permanent game lodge located inside Botswana’s famous Chobe National Park. Located some 20km upstream from the confluence of the Chobe and Zambezi Rivers, Chobe Game Lodge is the most convenient base to explore both the park and the river.

There are two options when it comes to accessing Chobe Game Lodge. First, visitors can access via the park gate at Kasane, approximately a 2 hour drive by road. Second, visitors can fly in and transfer by light aircraft from Victoria Falls or where ever you may be coming from within Botswana.

Chobe Game Lodge is popular simply for its sensational setting along the Chobe River. The river is the park’s most sought after attraction due to massive herds of elephant and buffalo being drawn into the area with great predictability during the dry season.

Guests to Chobe Game Lodge can expect top-notch facilities; A curio shop, wildlife reference library, Tshwene Bar, a luxury cigar bar equipped with a full size Victoria pool table classically overlooking the floodplains. Internet is available as well.

The outdoor eating area at Chobe Game Lodge is strategically placed under large mahogany trees on the banks of the river. Guests can have meals served here and the terrace restaurant. There is plenty of relaxing seating. Chobe Game Lodge also has a large swimming pool with its own terrace and a riverside area where guests can listen and watch local traditional performers.

Chobe Game Lodge also has a full gym onsite and conference facilities fully equipped with air-condition. The conference seats up to 90 delegates.

Chobe Game Lodge has the following room types:

• 47 standard luxury rooms at Chobe Game Lodge are river facing. AC / and fans, mini-bar, en-suite bathroom and with a private terrace
• 4 river view suites with the same amenities as the standard luxury rooms, but each of these suites also have its own private plunge pool and a separate lounge area.

Chobe Game Lodge is surrounded by wildlife. Chobe National Park is home to the largest concentration of elephant in all of Africa during the dry season. Between the massive herds of elephant and buffalo other species in the area include:

• Giraffe
• Hippo
• Crocodile
• Zebra
• Impala
• Tsessebe
• Roan
• Sable
• Wildebeest
• Kudu
• Waterbuck
• Warthog
• Eland
• Lion
• Hyena
• Jackal
• Bat-eared Fox
• Cheetah
• African Wild dog

If you’re also interested in Birding, no worries as Chobe Game Lodge is home to the Western banded snake eagle, trumpeter hornbill, narina trogon (summer), Pel’s fishing owl, bearded robin, red-faced cisticola, collared palm-thrush, swamp boubou, coppery sunbird, and purple banded sunbird to name just a few.

Chobe Game Lodge offers a choice of land and water-based activities

Game Drives

Traditional morning and afternoon game drives are conducted in open sided 4×4 vehicles, ensuring maximum visibility.

Boat Cruises

Probably the most exciting form of transport to get close-up and not too personal with river activity. Passengers can drift along in small, but highly maneuverable boats, perfect for morning or sunset cruises. Coast along the Chobe River on their double-decker river cruiser, the Mosi-oa-Tunya, with on-board bar and snacks.

Stargazing

Their resident professional guide and environmentalist also offers to view the ‘next generation’ on their stargazing deck.

Are you interested in making Chobe Game Lodge one of your stops on your safari in Botswana?

 

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