Welcome to Abu Camp Okavango!
Abu Camp Offers Special Activities, Okavango Ultimate Wilderness Retreat Special Safari Packages and Activities for Guests Daily Through the Okavango Delta Tours
Abu Camp is a luxury wilderness camp. It is set deep in half a million acres of private concession on the western side of the Okavango Delta in Botswana. The Camp is named after Randall Moore’s legendary elephant ‘Abu‘ and is surrounded by open grasslands, island sanctuaries and papyrus- fringed channels, which make it an exceptional safari hide-out for vacations in Botswana
Because of this fragile ecosystem, Abu Camp remains one of the world’s unspoilt and beautiful wildernesses where a vast diversity of animals and birds can be seen. The main deck is sculpted around giant African Ebony and Sycamore Fig trees, creating a dappled, cool atmosphere where meals and drinks are enjoyed.

Camp Facilities
Abu Camp boasts 6 custom-built, stylishly furnished luxury tents each with its own tree-shaded deck overlooking the lagoon. The tents are luxurious, smart, teak-wood polished furniture, with fully zipped entrances with pull up flaps on the windows in unique styles but maintaining high standards.
All tents are beautifully and individually furnished with mahogany four-poster beds / antique sleigh beds. There is also a lounge tent a more perfect place to relax in soft and comfortable chairs. A well-stocked library is available too, with a number of reference books. Each tent has an en-suite bathroom complete with copper or porcelain baths, shower and flush toilet. The dining area is set on layered teak decking that wind its way around African Ebony and Sycamore Fig trees. A ratio of four staff to each guest ensures the best of attention and service. There is a professional chef does the magic preparation of magnificent meals, catering to all tastes and dietary requirements.
The latest development to the Abu Camp safari experience is the addition of the Abu Private Villa situated across the lagoon which comfortably sleeps up to 4 guests with more privacy. Guests enjoy their own butler, chef and guide with exclusive use of a vehicle.
So, whether one wishes to commune quietly with the silence of the bush from the veranda of one’s own tent, or exchange stories around the fire at the mess tent, Abu Camp is the perfect hideaway for a safari to remember and savour for ever. Abu Camp was strategically set emphasis that there can be no better way of interacting with the wilderness and wildlife of the Delta.
How to Get There
The most ideal way is by air with a light aircraft. It is a short 30-minute flight from Maun. Private charters from Johannesburg, South Africa can also be arranged.
ABU CAMP SAFARI ACTIVITIES
. Day / Night Game Drives – At Abu Camp, the game drives are conducted in large comfortable custom-made saddles into the shimmering landscape of the Delta, on the most effective and stately of all 4×4′s.
. Elephant Back Safaris – The enthralling elephant back safaris are based at the Camp particularly on the western side of the Delta.
. Nature Walks – There are guided long walks through the bush
. Bird watching trails
. Mokoro rides
. Boat cruises
. Fishing
. Horse riding
Check-In: 02:00 PM
Check-Out: 11:00 AM

Vacation Packages In Botswana

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Botswana Honeymoon Packages
Just married and speculating where to go in Botswana for your honeymoon? Make a special and memorable beginning to your new life. Make your honeymoon an affair to remember with a getaway to some of the most exotic destinations. Botswana posses many wonderful private destinations for honeymoon couples. The beautiful landscape and pleasant atmosphere make Botswana very ideal for honeymoon vacations. There are numbers of romantic destinations in the country for the newly wed couples. Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve, Central Kalahari Desert and Victoria Falls are among most visited destinations for honeymoon vacations.  There are various Honeymoon packages in Botswana. One can select a right package to make honeymoon very romantic, memorable and delightful moments of life.
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sandibe-safari-lodge

Safari Lodge Vacations
If you book discounted full safari vacation packages as a couple or for the whole family in Botswana, you are likely to save money. You have to consider the location of the hotel and customer reviews before you make a decision. There are number eco-lodges in Botswana offering a unique experience of getting close to the nature. Some of them will have its own mini private tropical garden, hammocks, balcony and an outdoor shower as well. If you are able to choose the right location for your Botswana vacation, you can stay in the wild while enjoying all the comfort you need. The stunning flora and fauna is something you can never get enough of in Botswana, and eco-lodges are great places to get away from it all.
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Wildlife Vacations

Wildlife Vacations
Botswana is blessed with tremendous natural beauty and this makes its a wildlife safari enthusiast’s dream. Part of this beauty is because of the unique flora and fauna that exists in the forests of Botswana. Entice your safari vacations in Botswana and explore the fascinating dimension encompassed by the exotic wildlife. Retreat your eyes and senses with the enchanting splendour of the amazing bio-diversity that the country delights in. Those who treasure adventure will love the experience of discovering the country’s rich wildlife beauty. Explore its exotic national parks and wildlife sanctuaries during Botswana safaris. Some of the finest national parks of Botswana are Chobe National Park, Moremi Game Reserve, Central Kalahari Game Reserve and Nxai Pan National Park.
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Luxury Accommodation
A Botswana Vacation combines adventure with excellent accommodation at the heart of the action. Vacationers are guaranteed a unique opportunity to experience untouched wilderness and relax in a truly African ambiance. Botswana is exceptional and boasts plenty of luxury lodges for instance Elephant Valley Lodge as well as bed and breakfast offers for the budget traveler. Botswana vacations promise a real insight into the true Africa and will no doubt leave you with memories that will last for a lifetime.
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Luxury Resort Vacations
Botswana is an amazing destination for vacation. Some exclusive resorts offer discounts for off-peak seasons. The weather is great all over the year at many places of the country, so why not take an unusual time. Some places see only a little rain during the wet season, and the waters are suitable for swimming, diving and water sports. Some of the best resorts in Botswana are Phakalane Golf Estate Hotel Resort, Palm Hotel Casino Resort and Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge. They tend to offer discounts for group reservations, so if you know that your friends also wanted to visit Botswana, you can make a booking together to apply for the group discount.
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Chobe River Rafting

Adventure Tours
Adventure Tours in Botswana draws popularity from the spectacular inland Okavango Delta, the Kalahari Desert and several other alluring places of interest in the country that provide vacationers with total pleasure and satisfaction. Adventure safaris in Botswana offer travelers splendid and diverse experiences. An adventure trip to Botswana offers first hand experience of African holiday. Vacationers can enjoy mokoro rides and Delta Nature Walks in the Okavango Delta. Other adventure tours in Botswana are Skiing, Camping, Water Sports and White Water-Rafting
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Camping Vacations

Camping in Botswana
One of the most amazing travel experiences is waking up to the sound of elephant footsteps right outside your safari camp. Botswana camping idea offers one of the best idea ways for spending a vacation in Botswana in a different way. It is a relaxation method in laps of Mother Nature and also a hide out one can get from the busy city life. Some of the best places for camping in Botswana are Nxabega Safari Camp, Chobe Game Lodge, Savuti Camp, Baines Camp, Camp Okavango, Xigera Camp, etc.
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Luxury Private Tours
Botswana welcomes all types of travelers; with plenty of unique opportunities available to luxury travelers in even the most family-friendly locations. The majority of luxury travel opportunities here – from shopping and dining to private tours and spa treatments – revolve around the country’s premier beach resorts.
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Botswana Adventure Tours
Vacation in Botswana is made more delightful by customizing the trip to suit the travelers’ expectations. Several Botswana holiday packages are made available in the markets by travel agents and tour operators. Just book one of your choices and enjoy holidays in this globally famous Southern African country and take back home remarkable memories to relish in forever.

Sandibe Safari Lodge
Description: Sandibe Safari Lodge has 8 exclusive twin-bedded safari cottages expertly positioned to capture the presence of special trees and natural splendours such as a vast termite mound. Each cottage is fitted with en-suite bathrooms, open-air showers and private game-viewing decks. The central dining and sitting area is tucked under a soaring canopy of trees. The elevated game-viewing decks of each cottage overlook the Santantebi River.
The spacious rooms are decorated in a rich fusion of ochre and tactile textiles like silk and leather, and feature woven mats, copper and rough-hewn wood.  A quiet generator, solar power and absence of air-conditioners mean that your comfort is ensured without interfering with the environment and the area’s natural tranquillity.
The sparkling lounge and dining areas create a scenic setting that so serene and healing in nature under a soaring canopy of trees. Shaded decks slung with hammocks afford views across the watery labyrinth and grassland. The communal areas face into the sunset. The meandering paths of the camp are those used by elephant and wildlife for hundreds of years. Sandibe has a candelabra-illuminated, low-walled half boma (enclosed reed area) and a custom-designed charcoal-cooled wine cellar which offer guests the opportunity to feel the royal treatment and pleasure.

Cottage Interior                                                               Boma Area
In the boma at night, numerous candles and an open fire cast a golden light onto dining tables and leaf-strewn forest floor. The private verandas also prove romantic settings for intimate bush breakfasts and candlelit bush dinners.
Adjacent to Moremi, Sandibe’s environment features towering stands of palm trees, thick riverine vegetation and several huge old baobabs. It’s a lovely mix of forested areas interspersed with floodplains and permanent deep-water channels.
Facilities: All of the lodge’s eight spacious, airy terracotta rooms face the river; have a refreshing open-air shower, each cottage has a raised private deck which allows broad vistas of the surrounding area. The main dining area is a soaring, open structure with a plunge-pool nearby, a full-service restaurant is open year round. There is a shaded swimming pool and well stocked curio shop.

Sandibe Safari Lions
Activities
Daily Game drives – The lodge offers an incredible array of wildlife that Day and Night game drives in open 4×4 safari vehicles. Night game drives are particularly action-packed as they afford guests an opportunity to see the lesser known but interesting nocturnal animals of the Delta. Guests can also expect to see lion prides cheetah and leopard. Herds of red lechwe favour the edges of floodplains, often feeding in the company of tsessebe. Hippos reside in deeper channels and lagoons. Honey badgers are observed during daylight hours. Roan and sable antelope favour taller grass in open woodlands while the sitatungas keep to dense papyrus beds.
Bush Walks – Bush walks are guided by professional guides through the wetland wilderness. The walks are also offered on the private reserve with those incredible views, and to catch a glimpse of the denizens of the Moremi bush.
Balloon safari – Another option, at an extra cost, is early morning ballooning, beginning at first light. The balloon safari offers a truly unique experience to soar silently above the magnificent sand dunes and desert, with a champagne breakfast being served at your landing site.
Mokoro Excursions – The excursions are particularly carried out in the Delta areas.
Santantebi River Cruises – Boat trips in a specially-designed ‘silent’ electric boat along the permanent waterways. The lodge is refreshingly flexible about the timing of these activities.
Best time to Visit
All year round

Chobe Elephants

1. Guided Game Drives
Thrilling guided game drives in open vehicles bring visitors to the heart of Africa’s largest concentration of elephants, as well as hippos, buffalos, puku, antelopes, lions and other creatures that gather on the Chobe River’s banks. Elephants feature largely on any activity at Chobe Chilwero. Game drives in open-sided 4 x 4 vehicles bring these grey giants into easy reach as they drink and frolic at the water’s edge in their boisterous herds. Open safari vehicles are driven by an experienced guide who points out various animals that you almost certainly wouldn’t even notice. Hippos, buffalos, puku, antelope, lions and other creatures that gather on the banks of the Chobe River are common sightings. The guide will also give you the names of the colourful birds and other animals that you come across. Early mornings and late evenings drives are good times to view animals.

Chobe River Cruise

2. Sundowner Cruises
Sundowner Cruises are organized on the Chobe River. They offer one of the best ways to end a safari day. Specially designed riverboats take guests up close to elephants as they wade in the river or near to the buffalo who gather on its shores. Sundowner cruises are also a great way of seeing animals up close as they come out of the shade to graze in the cooler evenings.
3. Fishing Excursions
These are arranged on request. They are taken to Chobe Safari Lodge jetty for the activity. Here they are handed over to the coxswain and agree on a pick up time for the transfer back to the lodge. The winter months of May, June, July and August present the best season for fishing at Chobe Chilwero because that’s when the water is slowing down. The types of fish guests can expect to catch are Bream and Tiger Fish, on a catch and release basis.
4. Victoria Falls Tours
Your stay at Chilwero would really be incomplete if you don’t visit the Victoria Falls. The lodge is only an hour and a half’s drive from the spectacular Victoria Falls. Chobe Chilwero is a great base from which to explore this great wonder of the world. The tour usually takes one and a half hours stopping at the various viewing points. Guests are advised to wear appropriate clothing and shoes for the walk, as well as suitable waterproof gear for camera equipment.

BOTSWANA BIRDING HOTSPOTS

Nata Bird Sanctuary
The Nata Bird Sanctuary is located 170km northwest of Francistown and 20km south of Nata and the eastern tip of the Makgadikgadi Pans. Nata Bird Sanctuary is the only protected reserve of the area where a variety of species of birds and mammals can be seen. The bird sanctuary has about 165 species of birds; the Lesser and Greater Flamingos, Great White Pelican and Pink-Backed Pelican are the most dominant species, they arrive annually in large numbers as part of their migration during the winter season. (Nata Bird Sanctuary is one of the largest breeding sites of lesser and Greater flamingo in the world.) The lesser flamingos feed on algae and are plentiful in the warm shallow waters of salt pans. Other notable bird species include Avocet, Black-Winged Stilt, Blacksmith Lapwing, Cape Teal, Kori Bustard, Martial Eagle, Black-Necked Grebe, Bustards, Geese, Korhaans, Carmine, Darters, African Fish Eagle, Pied Kingfisher, Black-Chested Snake-Eagle, Blue-Cheeked Bee-Eater, Red-Knobbed Coot, Secretary Bird, Spoonbills, and White-Faced Whistling Duck.

Manyelanong Game Reserve
Nestled in between the sheer cliffs of the Manyelanong Hills, Manyelanong Game Reserve is one of the celebrated birding spots in Botswana. Although small in size, the Reserve protects a breeding colony of Cape vultures. It is this protection of the cape vultures that to the list of the destination for Botswana Bird watching Packages. The vultures are usually seen flying about the area and, when in season, the young birds are sitting on the rocks. Today there are just fewer than 70 breeding pairs of birds in the colony, but it still counts as one of the largest colonies of vultures in Botswana.
Okavango Delta
The Okavango Delta is the world’s largest inland delta and a remarkable bird sanctuary. A total of 450 species of bird have been recorded in the Delta. It is also a much preferred destination for the migratory birds such as the African Fish Eagle, Scared Ibis, and Crested Crane. Significant numbers of wetland birds occur in the delta swamps, notably the Herons. Several other resident bird varieties found within the Delta include Marabou stork, White-breasted Sunbird, White-headed Black-chat, Sharp-tailed Glossy-starling, Angola Babbler, Barred Wren-warbler, Bradfield’s Hornbill, Racket-tailed Roller, etc. Most of the species occur in exceeding numbers.

Makgadikgadi Pans
The Makgadikgadi Pans National Park is situated in north-eastern Botswana. It is home to some of the world’s largest salt pans and is a premier destination for those who want to experience both the best and the most extreme that nature has to offer. The flat salt-baked expanse of the Makgadikgadi pans which, with the adjacent national park host seasonal birds particularly during the wet season. When the Makgadikgadi fills with the annual rains, the Pans (Sowa Pan in particular) become breeding grounds as hundreds of thousands of water birds migrate to the area, creating a colourful spectacle. Flamingos and other water birds such as the Pelcans are found here.
Moremi Game Reserve
It rests on the eastern side of the Okavango Delta. Moremi Game Reserve is home to more than 500 species of birds which makes it one of Botswana’s prime birding areas. The Pelicans, Ibises, Herons and Storks are only some of the species which bring gorgeous splashes of colour and sweet melodies to the reserve. The bird population includes many water birds and during the wet season bird watchers can enjoy exceptional bird watching opportunities when the migrants have returned. Bird watching is best on the Xakanaxa and Gadikewe lagoons. Some of the many bird varieties to watch include Saddle-billed Stork, Denham`s Bustard, Yellow-throated Sandgrouse, Caspian Plover, etc.

OTHER BIRDING DESTINATIONS
- Chobe National Park
- Gaborone Game Reserve
When to Go Birding in Botswana
In Botswana, the perfect time for bird watching is between November and April. This is the rainy season, and it is also when several migrant bird populations are returning, and the vegetation is lush and green.
Also See:
Bird watching in Uganda | Bird watching in Malawi | Bird watching in Mozambique | Bird watching in Namibia | Bird watching in Rwanda | Bird watching in Seychelles | Bird watching in South Africa | Bird watching in Tanzania | Bird watching in Zambia | Bird watching in Zimbabwe | Bird watching in Madagascar| Bird Watching in Lesotho | Bird Watching in Zimbabwe

Africa Quick Links and Information
Africa Flights | Africa Hotels | Africa National Parks | Africa Vacations | Africa Holidays | Safari Vacations | African Safaris | Africa Honeymoon Safaris | Africa Travel Guide | Map of Africa | Africa Tours | Wildlife Safari | Africa Tour Operators | African Countries | African Cities

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BEST SAFARI OPTIONS IN BOTSWANA
Botswana safaris are available in various types. The three main ones are mobile safaris, luxury honeymoon safaris and fly-in safaris. In mobile safaris 4×4 vehicles are usually pressed into service to cover larger areas or a variety of different habitats in a single trip. Luxury honeymoon safaris are for the romantic couples who want to spend time sipping champagne on a private terrace while gazing out over the vast plains of Botswana. Fly-in safaris utilize top luxury safari camps in high-density game areas like the Okavango delta.

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Okavango Delta Safari Tours – The Okavango is the world’s largest inland delta. Nowhere on earth is the life giving force of water more apparent than this large delta in Botswana. A Botswana wildlife safari will almost always consist of the Okavango Delta. The Waters of the Okavango River originates in the highlands of Angola and spill out across 15,000 sq km, irrigating the Central Kalahari Desert. Although, the area is subject to seasonal flooding, the Delta is open to safaris year round. Okavango shelters great populations of elephant, Cape buffalo, and its variations of plains game, including southern Africa’s large predators (big cats!) and over four hundred species of birds! The diversity of wildlife makes the Okavango Delta a high quality gem of top Botswana wildlife safari destinations.

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Moremi Game Reserve Safaris – Moremi Game Reserve is one of Africa’s premiere Wildlife Reserves. The 1,881 square-mile Reserve is located on the magnificent Okavango delta. More than 300 bird species teem in the delta’s massive maze of inlets and islands, in addition to the hippos, crocodiles, elephants passing through, and lily pads that appear to stretch on forever. Avoid the summer-wet season if you can, as there would be too much water for the traditional mokoro ride at that time of the year. Make yourself comfortable at the Audi camp, which offers extremely moderate rates and plenty of attractions.

Chobe games drive

Chobe Safaris – Chobe National Park is a perfect spot for Botswana travelers passionate about elephants.  Chobe safari is one of the defining best activities of safaris in Botswana. You can take a cruise on a river boat just before sunset on the stretch of the Chobe River from Kasane town to Serondela campsite and watch masses of hippo, crocodile and elephant along the banks as the fiery orb dips slowly beneath the horizon with a glass of champagne in your hand. Visitors can not miss to catch a glimpse of the African Big Five. There are also has big buffalo herds which attract lion and hyena; zebra, lechwe, the chobe bushbuck and the rare puku antelope. Leopard and cheetah also avail themselves of the big gazelle herds and the Savuti channel which bisects the park is a good place to see the predators. Birding is also spectacular especially between November and March when many bird migrations occur.

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Mombo Camp Safaris – Situated in the Mombo Concession, which is one the northern tip of Chief’s Island, the Mombo Camp is one of the most extraordinary safari experiences on offer in the industry today. The camp itself falls within the area of the Moremi Game Reserve, which is based in the Okavango Delta of Botswana. What’s important about this fact is that it means a truly expansive range of both graceful game and their determined predators roam. Specially organised game drives are conducted in powerful 4×4 safari vehicles to ensure that tourists are able to travel everywhere and anywhere there is a sight worth investigating. The experience opens great photo opportunities particularly of the giraffes and blue wildebeest. Visitors have full day enjoyment of wonder and adventure. Nights Mombo Camp are filled with blissful relaxation under the clear Okovango stars.

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Camping Safaris – Botswana camping brings you closer to nature with the camp sites specifically being outfitted to create that camping feel while trying to make you comfortable during your wilderness experience. The “Migration Routes” which is priced from $ 3,048 per person is another great safari adventure. This is a 9 day camping safari that once again incorporates the use of a light aircraft and 4×4 safari vehicles. The tents and equipment are the same as the Untamed Lands safari. These are 3m x 3m dome tents with mini-verandas, pure cotton linen on stretcher beds, bedside tables with silver lanterns and mini luggage benches. This safari starts at either Maun or Victoria Falls; the decision is totally up to you. The difference between this safari and the Untamed Lands safari is that Makgadikgadi Pans and Nxai Pans are not in the destination itinerary.
Botswana Lodge Safaris – Botswana Lodge safaris by road offer a more cost-effective way of travel, without skimping on the luxury of staying in a lodge. Sizes are kept small to ensure personalized attention. There are several such camps scattered throughout the Okavango and Chobe. Your choice of camp will depend on what time of year you go for your Botswana safaris. Some of the perfect options are available in Okavango Delta, Moremi, Linyanti, Selinda, Savute, Kalahari, Chobe and The Tuli Block. Savute Elephant Lodge, Chobe Savanna Lodge, Deception Valley Lodge and Leroo La Tau offer some the best lodge safaris in Botswana.
Other African Destinations
Skeleton Coast Tours
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Kalahari Desert
Namibia
Victoria Falls Tours
Zambia Tours
South Luangwa National Park
Kruger National Park
Cape Town Tours
Bazaruto Archipelago
The Gambia
South Africa  Safaris
Kilimanjaro Hiking Safaris
BEST TIME FOR BOTSWANA SAFARIS
The best time to visit Botswana is between May and October, this is when the climate a little more temperate. Although, the rainy summer months between November and April, also offer fantastic bird-watching opportunities. The best way to explore Botswana is through a safari holiday. Travel operators and agents offer a range of safari choices.

© Copyright Botswana Safaris 2 www.guideforafrica.com cc. 2011

Chobe Lodge

LODGE DESCRIPTION
The structural design of the lodge is Moorish and of graceful high arches, barrel-vault ceilings and tiled floors create an ambiance of capaciousness. There are 47 rooms artistically well-rendered and air-conditioning river facing en-suite rooms accommodating up to 94 guests including children of all ages. For travelers who demand the ultimate in exclusivity, there are 4 private suites in original African carvings and paintings each fitted with their own plunge pool, tiled floors and a separate lounge area. An outstanding cuisine is served at a terrace restaurant overlooking the Chobe River with a taint of African flavor and bush meat.
Other facilities include a large swimming pool with a terrace, a riverside boma area where traditional dancers perform, a gym, beauty & spa treatments, laundry, wildlife reference library and stylishly decorated Linyanti bar and lounge area. Business needs are met by a fully equipped conference room and a business centre. Meals are catered for at the terrace restaurant overlooking the Chobe River.

Chobe Impalas

WILDLIFE ATTRACTIONS
Chobe National Park is known to have the largest single concentration of elephants in Africa surviving within a proclaimed national park. The wildlife roams in profusion and diversity. The majestic Chobe elephants are migratory and move 200 kilometers from the Chobe River to the pans of the Southeast of the park during the rainy season. During the harsh dry season, the herds migrate south to north and congregate along the perennial Chobe River and fertile floodplains. Other major species such as Lions, Buffalos, Red Lechwe, Wild Dog, Sable and Roan Antelope are encountered in many areas of the reserve. The sight of the red winter sunsets is spectacular and unforgettable.
CHOBE GAME LODGE SAFARIS

• Self Drive Safaris:
  

  Chobe Safari Drive Break

  Self Drive trip in order to take your time in the maximum comfort. The drives offer unmissable experiences within Chobe’s abundant wild animals, notably elephant. The large herds of elephant roam in the forested areas. Other animals spotted are buffalo, giraffe, leopard, lion, kudu, waterbuck, puku, lechwe, impala and baboons.

• Fishing & Photographic Safaris: The magnificent Chobe River is a popular site for those overseas visitors Fishing Africa on a fishing expedition as well as many a photographic society wishing to capture the landscape, the wild animals and the variety of birds that migrate to the area from November to March each year.
  
• Birding Tours: Birding trails from Chobe Lodge enables sight of a wide variety of beautiful exotic birds in the jungles of the park. Area such as Ngoma, Kazungula, Kasane, the floodplains, Chobe River and seasonal pans are the best birding spots in Chobe. The total bird list of this area exceeds over 450 species. Coppery Sunbird, Rufousbellied Heron, Luapula Cisticola, Greater Swamp Warbler are some of the most common birds.
• Wilderness Walking Trails: Chobe lodge walking trails are affordably priced and offer a 2 – 6 night walking trails. Most Chobe trails are designed for 2- 8 guests. The daily walks are about 15km between camps and take 4 hours to complete and are guided by an armed Chobe Park guide. Meals are prepared over an open campfire under the stars.
• Chobe River Cruises: Cruises on small boats or aboard the Mosi-oa-Tunya, afford spectacular wildlife viewing and unforgettable African sunsets. Game viewing on the Chobe River is conducted by small, shallow draft and highly maneuverable boats piloted by expert boatmen.

Important Information
Accommodation Rates From: USD 519.00
Swimming Pool Rates: Southern Africa: $400 – $600
Check-In: 02:00:00hrs
Check-Out: 11:00:00hrs

A Botswana Supermarket
WHERE TO GO SHOPPING IN BOTSWANA
In general, shops in Botswana open between 08:00 and 18:00 during the week and from 08:30 to 13:00 on Saturday. Shops are usually closed on Sunday and some smaller shops may close for an hour or two at lunchtime.

• African Arts Market: Located next to the Bushman Craft Shop near the airport terminal. Sells an impressive range of products including photographic prints, traditional items, jewellery and locally made pottery.
• Spar Supermarket: Spar Supermarket in the Ngami Centre is another perfect choice for the ardent shoppers
• South Ring Mall: Sells several products ranging from home utensils, stationery, fresh products, etc
• Shopprite Supermarket: Shopprite is one of the biggest and most elegant shopping areas in the country.
• Score Supermarket: Score supermarket sells fresh meat, fruit and vegetables, and has sections that are stocked fresh bread, sandwiches and other products.
• Kingfisher Trading Co: This simple shop sells African curios at fixed but fair prices
• Botswanacraft: Botswana’s largest craft emporium sells traditional souvenirs from all over the country including weavings from Oodi and pottery from Gabane and Thamaga.
• Jewel of Africa: This attractive shop offers an eclectic range of carvings, sketches, shawls and other assorted African knick-knacks.
• General Trading Co: This sells a huge range of high-priced safari gear, books, videos, and locally produced jewellery, pottery, drums and baskets.
• Craft Workshop: This small complex of shops sells crafts and souvenirs, and also host to a flea market every last Sunday in a month.
• Craft Centre: Sells pottery, paintings and handmade paper products and regularly features exhibitions of other arts and crafts.
• Bushman Craft Shop: Deals in a range of both local and international books, videos and woodcarvings

Others are;

• Broadhurst Mall
• Riverwalk Mall

WHAT TO SHOP IN BOTSWANA
There are shops for the local assets of each region. Come to Botswana and choose from a wide range of options ranging from handicrafts, bush-men crafts, leather wear, bone-carvings and woodcarvings, woven items, pottery, jewellery, basketry, textiles, Carpets, Papier-mache, Shawls, Silk and Tweeds, Woodwork, Pherans, Brass, Copper and Silverware, Wall hangings with naqqashi work, Saris Cricket Bats, Crewel Furnishings, Namdas, Kullu shawls all are must have for the tourists.
SHOPPING TIPS
It may be difficult to know where to actually start your shopping here; but, with a few tips, your shopping experience will be a great one. There are certainly more options for shopping in Botswana and you really need to have a list to save you a heap of time visiting store after store selling duplicate boring goods. Below are some essential tips and recommendations we believe should guide and inspire Botswana shoppers in making remarkable decisions on where to go and what to buy.

• Make a shopping list which will guide you to a veritable products when you next travel to Botswana
• Go shopping to places that give you a flavor of the culture and diversity
• Liaise with your travel agent (in the case of visitors) to avoid being victim of fraud

TOP RESTAURANTS IN BOTSWANA

Bull & Bush Pub, Gaborone
Bull & Bush Pub is one of the many restaurants in Botswana you will want to try out. It offers a variety of wonderful foods in a friendly and warm atmosphere. It has an open place with two bars, inside and outside dining, a pool room, a separate, wood fired pizza kitchen and a private dining area.
Phone: +267 3975071 / + 267 3975070
Email: bullbush@global.bw
Hilary’s Restaurant, Maun
Situated off Mathiba I Lane in Maun, Hilary’s Restaurant is a homey place offering big budget portions on their menu served family style. It’s ultimate for vegetarians and anyone sick of greasy sausages and soggy chips. Guests also enjoy indoor or outdoor dining.
Café Prego, Gaborone
This is another spot where you may see a famous celebrity while enjoying breakfast. It is like a romantic hideaway and specialises in breakfasts and homemade pastas.
Curry House Restaurant & Takeaway, Maun
Curry House Restaurant & Takeaway is another place that is popular for their tasty foods in Maun, Botswana. This restaurant serves excellent meals in Indian delicacies that will keep you coming back for more. Local dishes are also prepared.
Equatorial Café, Gaborone
When asking yourself where to eat at in Gaborone you may want to try Equatorial Café. It offers an impeccable menu of professionally spiced foods served along with fruit smoothies and gourmet sandwiches. Situated on Riverwalk Mall, Village, this is a very special place for Botswana tourists to eat from.
Fishmonger, Gaborone
This is a local restaurant that serves great cuisine. It is all seafood at Fishmonger. So long as you don’t think about where the nearest ocean is, you’re going to enjoy the fish here.
French Connection, Maun
This elegant café has a French trained chef who adds great flair to meals served here. Special menus of classic European standards are prepared such as croissants, cappuccinos, baguettes and speciality salads. It is found in Maun.
Terrace Restaurant, Gaborone
On the terrace of the Cresta President Hotel, this eclectic restaurant is a good spot to have a relaxing and casual first date for lovers. The Terrace serves up a variety of dishes including curries, grilled meats, continental cuisine and a few local specialities. It is also a fantastic place for ice cream.
Sanitas Restaurant
Located in Gaborone, Sanitas Restaurant is an exceptionally more comfortable spot for eating. It boasts good night lighting and is a perfect place for dates in Botswana.
Primi Piatti Restaurant
To get a truly Botswana travel experience, it is paramount to eat where typical local dishes as well as international cuisines are served eat. And this should be at Primi Piatti Restaurant. It is located on Riverwalk Mall in Gaborone.
Phone: +267 3700068
Cafe Dijo
Sampling the local Botswana food at Cafe Dijo is a must if your want to make your Botswana travel memorable. If you miss out on tasting the local delicacies at this spot, you miss out on a huge part of travelling. It is located at Kgale Shopping Centre in Gaborone city.
Phone: +267 3180575

Nxai Pan National Park

The Park is dominated by short, sweet grass that provides the springbok with grazing. Islands of umbrella thorn provide shade and a number of large baobabs dot the pan. The baobab tree is capable of living for more then 4,000 years, and can attain a height of over 25 metres, with a circumference of some 30 metres. The clumps of trees on the pan consist mostly of Umbrella thorn and Bustard umbrella thorn. Mopane trees are found on the clay soils and a variety of Combretum trees on the mixed sand and clay. Other tree species in the pan areas include Lekkerbreek, Coffea Bean, Silver terminalia, Brandy bush, Kalahari taaibos, Sickle bush, Camphor bush and the beautiful purple-flowered legume commonly known as the fish poison bush.
During the rains the Park boasts a large array of wild flowers, of which the large Brumsvigia lily is probably the most spectacular.
Wildlife

Nxai Pan Safari Leopard

Nxai Pan National Park is well known as one of the finest places in Botswana to sight the secretive leopard, which often lies out in the open catching the morning sun. Lion, cheetah, spotted and elusive brown hyena, honey badger, gemsbok, zebra, giraffe, kudu, hartebeest, black-backed jackal, rare wild dog and in summer even the occasional elephant are seen in the park. This is one of the few places where impala and springbok cohabit, as they are normally separated by habitat preferences. Also present in the Park are large numbers of bat-eared fox. At times rhinos have also been sighted. Since the park is not enclosed, wildlife wanders in and out at will that it is not common to find high numbers pitched at one point like it may be in Chobe National Park although at times impala, gemsbok, hartebeest and kudu may appear in large numbers during the migrations. Game is usually exceptional between December and late March when most animals drop their young
Bird life
The Nxai Pan area is also excellent for birding, especially during the rains as several raptors congregate around the plains preying on rodents and reptiles. Approximately 250 species of migratory birds including wild birds inhabit the Pan areas. This rich bird checklist makes the park a frequent stop for bird enthusiasts. The world’s largest living bird, the ostrich is most prominent here. Some of the other bird species found in the park are the greater kestrel, pale chanting goshawk, Red Billed Francolins, etc.
Other attractions
—    Boteti River; the Boteti River is a natural watercourse that stretches from Ngamiland to the main Boteti District. It is particularly scenic during the dry season when most other seasonal ponds and drainages have dried up because wildlife congregates here to quench.
—    Mokolane Palm Islands; Mokolane Palm is an archipelago with the park with a diverse range of vegetation species. It is widely known for the white nut carves commonly used in making jewellery and crafts. The palm liquid is also distilled to make palm wine.
Getting There
There is a clearly marked road access route 138 km from Maun and 167 km from Nata. Visitor can also charter a light aircraft to Maun; or hire a 4X4 Safari vehicle from the several Botswana tour operators and safari agent available.
Best Time to Visit
There is more game to be seen between October and March. Best game viewing months at Nxai Pan is during the rainy season from December to April. During the rains Nxai Pan becomes transformed to a green wonderland abounding with massive concentration of animals, accompanied by their newly born offspring. During the winter dry season, animals concentrate around the Boteti River. Veld flora is also spectacular during this time.
Where to Stay

Nxai Pan South Camp

The best facility is the Nxai Pan Lodge with 8 ideally built tents that can accommodate up to 18 visitors. It has a dining room; lounge area; and viewing deck enabling easy game viewing. The lodge also offers a swimming pool, library and curio shop. Other places where to stay are nearby Xwaraga Camp, Nata Safari Lodge and Gweta Rest Camp. Two other bush campsites at Njuca Hills, 20 km from the game scout camp equally good especially for the true wild experience.
Activities
—    Birding Tours; particularly
—    Game Drives; usually offered in 4×4 vehicles.
—    Camping Safaris
—    Walking Trails
—    Historical Tours; these are organised to Baines Baobabs.

CHOBE NATIONAL PARK

Chobe Safari Giraffes

The diverse collection of flora and fauna of Chobe call on scores of wildlife enthusiasts from several parts of the globe for Chobe wildlife safaris. This national park is the second largest and one of the foremost attractions of Botswana Tourism. It is divided into four sections, the Savute Marsh area, the Serondela area, the Nogatsaa-Tchinga, and the Linyanti Marsh. The park boasts over 120,000 elephants, which you will see moving in family groups, old and young alike. It is located next to the Okavango Delta stretching to Chobe River and the Savute Channel. Chobe is the country’s prime destination to spot the African Big Five and to explore the unseen adventures of wildlife of Africa. Aside from massive concentrations of elephants which are easily spotted, other special wildlife found in Chobe are Black-backed jackal, bat-eared foxes, Lions, tsessebe, kudu, buffalo, antelope, impala and ostrich abound. Botswana safaris to Chobe Park will also enable to spot thousands of migrating zebra and wildebeests.
Birding is also excellent, particularly throughout November to March when many bird migrations occur, allowing magnificent views of huge flocks covering the skies. Over 300 resident bird species are found in the Savute areas. From water birds to forest birds, you’ll find a diverse display that will dazzle you with their colours and numbers.

KGALAGADI TRANSFRONTIER PARK
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is one of Africa’s and the world’s most famous wildlife parks. Covering over a total area of 38,000 sq km, the Park bestrides between the borders Botswana and South Africa and adjoining two national parks namely the Kalahari Gemsbok National Park in South Africa and Botswana’s Gemsbok National Park. The Park provides a conservation area to two of the largest ecological processes of Africa, i.e. savannahs and grasslands. It is home to several migratory movements of wild ungulates including large mammalian predators such as black-maned Kalahari lions, cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas. Migratory herds of large herbivores such as blue wildebeest, springbok, eland, and red hartebeest also live and move seasonally within the park, providing sustenance for the predators. More than 200 species of bird can be found in the park, including vultures and raptors such as eagles, buzzards and secretary birds.

MAKGADIKGADI PANS NATIONAL PARK

Makgadikgadi Yawning Lion

The Makgadikgadi Pans consist of two major basins, relics of one of the world’s largest super-lakes.
Standing in this vast expanse which was once a super lake but has dried up to form a huge salt pan which is flat as far as the eye can see with an occasional rocky outcrop and sand dune dotting the landscape is an amazing experience.
Makgadikgadi Pans National Park is not so scenic during the harsh dry season because the wildlife is scanty. This is because the pans become desolate and dry. The only birds here in the dry season are ostriches, Chestnut-banded Plover and Kittlitz’s Plover. The dry season presents the best time for visitors to explore the salt pans on quad bikes. However, the contrast with the wet season is simply breathtaking. The Park becomes an important habitat for migrating animals including wildebeest and one of Africa’s biggest zebra populations, and the large predators that prey on them. It is also the best season to as animals migrate here to take advantage of the temporary pans that form. The wet season also brings migratory birds such as ducks, geese and Great White Pelicans. The pan is home to the only breeding population of Greater Flamingos in southern Africa. Thousands of migratory flamingos arrive to breed in the pan also during the rainy season.

NXAI PAN NATIONAL PARK
Adjacent to the Makgadikgadi Pans is Nxai Pan National Park. It is situated north of the Maun-Nata main route in north-eastern Botswana. It was declared a national park in 1992 and today covers an area of 2,578 sq km which includes Baines’ Baobabs. On the pans are “islands” of Acacia trees that form shady spots in which the animals often rest during the day. The short nutritious grasses on the pans provide excellent grazing, particularly for the springbok, which is almost always abundant in this area.
Within the mopane woodland are wild animals including lion, giraffe, brown hyena, kudu, the hartebeest, bat-eared fox, impala, ostrich, fascinating birdlife and large numbers of springbok, together with a good population of jackal, bat-eared fox and numerous smaller creatures, are permanent residents. Once the rains have started, gemsbok, elephant and zebra congregate at the Pan. At that time, zebra are present in thousands and drop their young at Nxai Pan, rivalling the spectacle of the multitude of young springbok, to further enhance game-viewing opportunities. Game viewing can be rather unpredictable in Nxai Pan, especially during the dry season.

Mokolodi Nature Reserve

Wildlife
The real treasure of Mokolodi Nature Reserve is its astonishing wildlife. Reedbuck, aardwolf, aardvark, baboon, bushbuck, caraca, civet, crocodile, duiker, grey, eland, elephant, fox, cape, gemsbok, genet, spotted giraffe hare, cape hare, mountain rhinoceros, red rock hartebeest, hippopotamus, sidestriped klipspringer, hyena, brown hyrax, impala, jackal, kudu, leopard, mongoose, banded mongoose, dwarf mongoose, slender mongoose and the white-tailed monkey are the some of the wildlife here. Others are black-backed jackal, cape clawless pangolin, polecat, porcupine, white springhare squirrel, ground squirrel, tree steenbok, warthog wildcat, African wildcat, black footed, wildebeest, blue Zebra, Burchells.

Mokolodi Safari Elephants

Bird life
Beside the wildlife, the reserve boasts an impressive diversity of bird species.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit is from May to October. This is the dry season the landscape becomes scored and devoid of vegetation, game is easy to spot as it gathers around the permanent water logged areas.
Getting There
The park has a well-developed network of 4×4 routes, although some are still being repaired as a result of the flood damage caused in the 2000 heavy rains. Within the reserve is also Pilanesberg International Airport for direct light flights.
Where to Stay
For accommodations, there are 5 well-rendered and self-catering chalets found in the reserve. These fairly-priced private camping facilities are situated on a kopjie (rocky outcrop) overlooking a waterhole offering fascinating views of the reserve. They are well spaced out to ensure confidentiality and, as the road to the chalets is not open to other visitors, you can be assured of perfect peace and quiet. Each chalet is constructed in traditional style, the thatched roof providing warmth in winter and a cool retreat in the summer. They welcome visitors all year through. Other nearby accommodation options are Mokolodi Backpackers (1.4km); Oppi-Koppi Bed & Breakfast (7.4km); and Sun International Gaborone Sun (15.9km).
Activities
—    Game Drives; Numerous game drives can be arranged. The early morning and late evening drives are the most rewarding as during the heat of the day most animals retreat into the shade. The evening drives are equally adventurous as animals are easily seen wandering in corridors of the reserve. Game drives present perfect chances for spotting the more unusual nocturnal creatures such as the small cats, porcupines and spring-hares.
—    Night Drives; Mokolodi at night is a magical world; the night sky can be seen in all its glory.
—    White Rhino Tracking; Mokolodi also offers the chance to track the endangered white rhino. Mokolodi Nature Reserve is one of the only places in the world where one has the chance to track these impressive animals in their own environment, and it is certainly an unforgettable experience. The age limit is 16 and above.
—    Cheetah Tracking; If we ask tourists who have visited the reserve before what they would most like to see on their safari here, the answer is usually a unanimous the cheetah. Cheetah tracking is the highlight of most safaris to Mokolodi.
—    Elephant Walks; The elephant walk enables guests to spend a few hours walking through the park literally with the elephants. One of the added advantages of the elephant walk is that the other game is not threatened by a human presence, so with care you can walk remarkably close to the other game in the park.
—    Guided Walks; Take a walk through the bush guided by an armed tour guide.

• New Year’s Day,1 January
• Labour Day,1 May
• Freedom Day, 14 June
• Sir Seretse Khama Day, 1 July
• Presidents’ Day, 3rd Monday in July
• Botswana Day, 30 September
• Botswana Day holiday, 1 October
• Independence Day,
• Mother’s Day, 9 Oct
• Christmas Day, 25 Dec & Boxing Day, 26 December

Accommodation
Finding a good, comfortable and affordable stay in hotels is equally important. If you are travelling to Botswana, especially the first timers, it’s recommended that you always book your hotel accommodation in Botswana well in advance. Similarly those planning for Botswana holidays, it’s plausible to make prior arrangements for your lodging and accommodation. Availability of safari lodges in Botswana is very hard to find even during the off seasons especially in major tourist places in Botswana.
Your pocket budget is a very important thing to plan your Botswana trip. The Hotel where you will be staying needs to fit into your budget. It is sensible that you find out the room rates beforehand by either calling up at the hotel or by simply searching online hotels in Botswana. All hotels in the country match the world class categories. Visitors are encouraged to make their reservations in advance.

OUR RECOMMENDED DESTINATIONS

Okavango Delta
The Okavango Delta is located in the Kalahari Desert, Botswana. It is the largest inland delta in the world and covers an area of about 15,000 sq km. This is one of the famous attractions of Botswana. Flourishing with diverse wildlife and unmatched scenic beauty, the Okavango offers visitors an unparalleled African experience. Ardent birders can get chance to see thousands of species represented in the delta. You can also see several desert animals including elephant, zebra, hippo and giraffe.

Gaborone City

Gaborone City
Gaborone is the capital city of Botswana. It is located in the south eastern region of the country and lies only 15km from South Africa. Gaborone offers a judicious mixture of traditional African style and modern western sensibilities. On the streets, you can find quality restaurants and shops to enjoy your time there. You can visit the National Museum and Art Gallery to explore Botswana’s history and culture. Also, visiting to nearby reserves could be a great fun too.

Chobe National Park
Covering 10,566 sq km, Chobe National Park is not only the second largest national park in Botswana but also has one of the greatest concentrations of game found on the African continent. It was declared a National Park in 1967. You can enjoy game and boat cruises here.
Moremi Game Reserve
Situated to the northeast of Maun, in the heart of the Okavango Delta Botswana, Moremi

moremi-camp

reserve is regarded as one of the most beautiful on the entire African continent. At the Moremi Reserve you can get up close and personal with a huge variety of wildlife. Holiday in Moremi Game Reserve for outstanding game viewing at privately owned safari lodges in the Okavango Delta.
Khama Rhino Sanctuary
The sanctuary is situated on the Serowe-Orapa-Maun road 25 km north of Serowe. The reserve covers 4,300 hectares of Kalahari sandveld with Serowe Pan. It was created to safeguard the remaining rhino and to re-establish the black and white rhino

Khama Rhinos

population in Serowe area. Rhino share the reserve with a variety of indigenous game including red hartebeest, ostrich, brown hyena, leopard, jackal, antelope and smaller mammals such as the bat-eared fox, lynx and wild cat. There is also abundant birdlife in the sanctuary with a large variety of raptors. The sanctuary is operated by a local community trust for the benefit of both the people of Serowe and the nation as a whole. The reserve offers guided nature drives and nature trails accompanied by expert guides.
Kalahari Desert

kalahari

The Kalahari Desert is one of the most treacherous deserts in the world. It covers an area of 930,000 sq km. The Kalahari Desert is a destination that people from all around the world come to visit for varied reasons and interests. It is one of the most famous places to hunt big game such as lions, hyenas, and a variety of other wildlife that wander the desert areas.

The National Museum and Art Gallery
The National Museum and Art Gallery in Gaborone displays a collection of traditional crafts and paintings by local and regional artists. The Museum is home to numerous original paintings by international artists. There is a curio shop within the Museum, Bobi

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Arts, which is worth a visit.
Central Kalahari Game Reserve
Central Kalahari Game Reserve is an extensive national park in the Kalahari Desert of Botswana. Established in 1961 it covers an area of 52800 sq km. The reserve is characterised by vast open plains, saltpans and ancient riverbeds. Available wildlife includes gemsbok, giraffe, brown hyena, blue wildebeest, eland, cheetah, leopard, red hartebeest, lion, warthog, wild dog, kudu and springbok. Botswana safaris in the reserve are best between December and April when the animals congregate in the pans and valleys to quench.
Kasane Hot Springs

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Many people visit this area out of wonderment and in the process, not only do they discover this mystery, but also they wander into the only wildlife corridor between the village of Kazungula and the Township of Kasane.
Khutse Game Reserve
Khutse Game Reserve lies only 250 km from Gaborone, Botswana, and borders the Central Kalahari Reserve. The extensive mineralised pan system within Khutse is a significant habitat for wildlife. Several herbivores are attracted to graze on the grasses of the pans, quench the mineralised water- especially during the rain seasons. These herbivores in turn attract predators, such as lion, cheetah

Botswana Holidaymakers

and leopard. It offers an ideal spot for game viewing.
Gchwihaba Caves
As said, the Gcwihaba Caves set in the undulating Kalahari dunes are certainly one of the wildest and remotest of all tourist destinations in Botswana. These beautiful caves are situated 50km south east of Aha Hills. They are common Botswana holiday tour spots for the hard travellers who enjoy adventuring.
Seboba Water Rapids, Chobe
This is the only area in Botswana where one can find permanent water rapids. The water rapids create a beautiful natural setting to make a perfect destination for safari holidays

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in Botswana. It is here, where the waters of the Chobe River meet an equal powerful force that is ready to block its passage; a stretch of undulating rock bases.

Abu Camp
Abu Camp spreads over on 160 000 acres in a private concession on the western side of the Okavango Delta. It lies in a secluded location which also a wilderness haven. Surrounded by open grasslands, island sanctuaries and papyrus fringed channels Abu camp offers an ultimate safari experience particularly with the elephants. More about Abu Camp
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Chitabe Camp
Chitabe Camp is located in a private area, south-east of the Okavango Delta.  This luxurious eight-roomed tented camp is nestled on one of the most beautiful Okavango Delta islands adjacent wildlife-rich Moremi Game Reserve. Guests experience breathtaking mix of landscapes, habitats and wildlife surrounding this camp. The camp offers accommodation in eight spacious artistically designed tents built on raised wooden decks. More about Chitabe Camp.
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Eagle Island Camp
Eagle Island Camp located on Xaxaba Island is a hidden camping paradise in the Okavango Delta. Luxury Eagle Island Camp is surrounded by Illala Palms; the camp overlooks a surrounding lagoon fed by the tranquil waterways of the Delta. More about Eagle Island Camp
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Jao Camp
Jao Camp is a magnificent luxury safari located in a private reserve on a remote large island, west of wildlife-rich Moremi Game Reserve in Okavango Delta. It has nine spacious, individually artistically designed tents, each fitted with luxury facilities and wonderful views of the amazing surrounding floodplains. More about Jao Camp
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Seba Camp
Seba Camp is a family safari camp set in an ancient riverine forest in spectacular Okavango Delta. Seba Camp offers guests offers secluded and luxurious accommodation in beautifully laid tents overlooking a lagoon and seasonal floodplain teeming with animal and bird life. It offers a perfect spots for game viewing. More about Seba Camp
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Little Vumbura Camp
Little Vumbura is situated on an island in a private reserve in northern Okavango Delta. The camp occupants have a guaranteed chance to experience the incredible Okavango Delta diversity of habitats, wildlife and birdlife. Little Vumbura is a first-rate Okavango camp for bird-watching.  Little Vumbura is bounded by large fresh water rivers. More about Little Vumbura Camp
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Xigera Camp
Xigera is a luxury tented camp situated in the Moremi Game Reserve, in the heart of the Okavango Delta. The camp has 9 grandly equipped tented rooms with en-suite facilities. This model tented camp is nestled in a magnificent riverine forest offering several water and land-based safari activities in neighbouring Moremi Game Reserve. More about Xigera Camp
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Sandibe Safari Lodge
Sandibe Safari Lodge beautifully nestles between permanent water and grass-swept plains of the glorious Okavango Delta, southeast to game-wealthy Moremi Game Reserve on a 270 sq km private concession. The beautiful thatched intimate lodge has 8 exclusive twin-bedded safari cottages surrounded by abundant wildlife form Moremi. More about Sandibe Safari Lodge
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Nxabega Safari Camp
Nxabega Camp is located in Okavango Delta on a 7 000 hectare exclusive wildlife concession on the western border of the Moremi Wildlife Reserve. Nxabega is a perfect tented safari camp said to be a pure model example of standard safari accommodation. It is also known for its breathtaking views to explore the thrilling bird and animal life species that live in the Delta. More about Nxabega Camp
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Baines Camp
Set amongst the shady trees and water of the Okavango Delta, intimate Baines Camp consists of 5 luxurious suites set on raised wooden decks in the tree line. The elevated platforms offer excellent views over the Boro River and a lagoon flourishing with life. More about Baines Camp
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Camp Okavango
Camp Okavango is situated on the remote Nxaragha Island in the center Okavango Delta. Camp Okavango accommodates 24 guests in intimate exclusivity in East African-style safari tents, privately nestled on raised teak platforms with en-suite facilities and game viewing activities such as bird viewing and guided nature walks. More about Camp Okavango

Gaborone city is home to 191,776 residents (2006 est. statistics). Locally referred to as Gabs, it is a relatively small but exciting city that is served by the Sir Seretse Khama International Airport. All international Flights to Botswana touch down at this airport.

This young city in Southern Africa has of late become a seat of power for one of Africa’s most successful economies, Botswana. The city has numerous busy shopping malls where you may go to buy full range of imported and locally produced goods. Go to The Main Mall, or national Assembly, Kgale Hill or St. Claire Lion Park. The city is also the place that hosts the annual Botswana International Trade Fair. Again if you have taken cheap flights to Gaborone and are looking for some entertainment you may to sports clubs and various night clubs scattered around the city.
Eating-Out / Restaurants
Gaborone has a range of excellent restaurants, and cafes where you may go for eating out or for having a cup of tea or coffee there. Visitors should expect finding some world-class international quality hotels for accommodation. These hotels are located near many shopping centres and industrial complexes. There are also some areas that boast some low-cost housing, and blocks of flats for accommodation. Some of the top-class hotels / accommodations in Gaborone include Metcourt Inn at the Grand Palm, Phakalane Golf Estate Hotel, Mondior Summit Hotel, Gaborone Sun Hotel, Cresta President Hotel, Kgale View Lodge, Planet Lodge and Cresta Lodge Gaborone.

CITY ATTRACTIONS

• The National Museum and Art Gallery – The dazzling National Museum is located in the city centre and houses essential collections of traditional art pieces, paintings by local and sculpture works by prominent artists. It also serves to preserve Botswana’s natural and cultural heritage.
• Gaborone Game Reserve – The Gaborone Game Reserve is spread more than 600-hectare and boasts diverse topography and rich flora and fauna. Established in 1988, Gaborone game reserve lies in the west of the city on LimpopoDrive and of late has become the third-busiest park in Botswana. It attracts a large number of tourists and wildlife enthusiasts on Botswana safaris because of its significant wildlife variety including impala, kudu, wildebeests, bushbuck, warthogs, springbok, zebras, gemsbok, duiker and widespread Eland. The Park is also a thrilling birding destination. Several Birds in the marshy section of the park include snake eagles, gallinule, kingfishers and hornbills.
  

  Gaborone Game Reserve

GABORONE WEATHER – Best Time to travel
Gaborone city experiences a hot semi-arid climate. For most of the year, the city is hot and dry. Summers can be blisteringly hot. The nights are cool. Usually, the summers with little rainfall are warmer than summers with regular rainfall. Drought is usually experienced in January when it is hottest. Before the rains starts usually in October, temperatures are equally high not good for open travel. During the winter season, days are still warm but the nights become cold. There is on average one day per year with temperatures below 0 °C.  Most of the rainfall in Gaborone falls during the summer months form October to April.

The best time to travel to Gaborone is in the spring or autumn which comes between late September / early October and late March / early April.

Caution!
Botswana travelers to Gaborone are urged to be cautious during there stay in the city. Repeatedly are the increasing incidences of crime to visitors, particularly armed robbery and rape in Gaborone and other towns. Avoid driving late night. Botswana wildlife and some bad sections of the roads are not good for driving on car lights especially for visitors.

Chobe Safari Lodge Room

The Lodge has two Restaurants for its guests: All accommodation has en-suite bathrooms fitted with air-conditioning facilities. There is 24-hours fast internet access with an internet Café. The luxury en-suite luxury en-suite River rooms have rondavels independently situated to provide space for late night animal viewing.

The apartment has a swimming pool just outside. It also has a volley ball court, glass back squash court, a fitness gym and a hairdresser salon.
Available is a Terrace Restaurant which serves both International and Local dishes. Buffet is served for lunch but on request with bush meat, salads and a range of other local dishes. Depending on wish, snacks are at times served for lunch. There is also a large and varied breakfast buffet is offered in the terrace restaurant, with a choice of a Continental or fully cooked English breakfasts.
There is a Cocktail Bar where Chobe safari travelers are spotted on evening after the day trail in the park. Some choose to relax around the pool.

Chobe Lodge Guests Relaxing

Chobe Safari Lodge offers a number of activities to guests, which include 4×4 late afternoon Game Drives especially in the Caprivi floodplain and Chobe River to spot migratory elephants and buffalo as they cross the River, boat cruises along the River, bird watching, walking safaris that take in the Zambian side of the River, occasional fishing on the River, common also are sun downer cruises as well as Victoria Falls tours.
During lunch picnics the lodge residents are popularly seen on full day’s game drives guided by expert Botswana tour operators in Chobe particularly during the dry season of April to late August when the several elephants congregate at the River banks to quench their thirst.

The camp accommodates 16 guests in en suite chalets constructed out of natural materials but still offers all the luxuries of contemporary safari accommodation.

The Delta Camp chalets are artistically designed to take advantage of the surrounding indigenous trees of their island forest. Each chalet fits modestly into its setting, joining together into the surrounding to offer clear views over the Okavango flood plains.
Game of all sorts is easily spotted on game drives including buffalo, elephant, lion, giraffe, leopard, crocodile, hippopotamus plus numerous rare species of antelope such as the lechwe and sitatunga.
Overlooking the confluence of two channels, Delta Camp’s lounge and dining area is raised to offer the fantastic panorama of the riverine forest as well as the Okavango swamps. The Delta Camp also stands out as one of the few safari camps in Botswana to permit accommodation to children.
Camp Amenities
Excellent meals ensure that guests are well prepared for their walks; tea and coffee are available at all times, and the open bar is on hand to wet your whistle, whether dried by the African sun or a close encounter with exciting game.
The lodge has an elegant dining area with stunning views of the area and the roaming wildlife. If you are looking for a more secluded dining experience, you can have a prepared picnic on one of the islands.

okavango-giraffes

Activities
Go for walking Safaris with your expert Guide. Delta Camp guests are actively encouraged to explore neighbouring local villages, which are essentially the home areas of most guides where you interact with the residents in the surrounding local communities. A wide range of game is observed from the deck plus over 450 bird species more importantly in late evening.

The Camp is consummately situated amidst the Okavango riverine forest surrounded by giant trees and verdant shrubs; and adjacent is the magnificent Okavango Delta. Occupant at the safari camp have chance to explore the majesty of the Okavango Delta – the largest inland delta in the world which is also home to a magnificent array of wild animals and exceptional birdlife as well as abundant waterways. The Okavango also harbours several aquatic and land species.

nxabega-safari-camp

Nxabega safari Camp has accommodation capacity of up to 18 guests only, in exclusive tented suites which are set around the floodplain. All the tents are en suite and are nestled on elevated platforms to offer perfect game viewing of the Moremi wild animals. Shade at the camp is impressively provided by canopies of giant ebony trees in the surrounding.
The main lodge area has a lounge and dining room with a broad viewing deck, swimming pool and there is also a camp fire area. Break fast is offered in bed on request as well as lamp-lit cocktails.

Inside Tent Nxabega

Nxabega safari Camp Activities

• Game drives – Residents at Nxabega Camp go for early morning and afternoon / evening adventure game drives to track the rich wildlife surrounding Nxabega particularly the Big Five usually in an open air safari vehicle accompanied by a highly trained armed guide and tracker. Other wildlife spotted includes the semi-aquatic lechwe and sitatunga antelope, the shy bushbuck which hides upon seeing a vehicle as well as the elusive Pel’s fishing owl. The drives that extend into the evening include the use of a spot light, allowing you the chance to see some of the fascinating night life.
• Guided bush walks – take a leisurely walk in the surroundings of the Camp to take in the sights, smells and sounds of the Okavango Delta escorted by an armed guide. Bush walks offer excellent opportunities of experiencing the bushes as well as getting closer to the wildlife.
• Boat excursions – Nxabega Camp also offers river cruises in electrically powered boats locally known as ‘mokoro’.  Nxabega occupants sail on the waterways of the Okavango by boat in the company of expert guides provided by the Camp management. It is an exciting experience and tranquil way the Okavango waterways. However, these are seasonal. Their best season is usually between June and late July.
• There is also excellent birding particularly in the riverine forest of the Okavango. A host of several rare birds and other water creature can be observed while relaxing around the camp.

Baines Camp

Baines Camp is an exciting example of sustainable apartment that offers an intimate experience of one of the most scenic areas of the Moremi Game Reserve; occupants are assured of accommodation which is spacious in a serene surrounding.
The Camp is ideally situated in an area where there are abundant waterways, beds of papyrus and animal species. It also has excellent game viewing and bird watching particularly in the channels of the Delta.
Camp Facilities

• 10 en-suite rooms well equipped with ceiling fan and safe
• Each camp has natural stone en-suite bathroom facilities.
• Restaurant
• Outdoor dining
• Laundry services
• Mini Bar
• Swimming pool
• Spacious reception area
• A lounge area which allows for excellent views of the lagoon

Activities

Baines Camp interior

• Enjoy the surrounding area from your chalet
• Water-borne excursions on small motorboats
• Afternoon / late evening game drives to the nearby Moremi Game Reserve
• Guided bush walks for the more adventurous
• Relax and cool off in the swimming pool
• Baines Camp also offers a fascinating 4 hour Elephant interaction motion, which includes a leisurely paced walk with a trio of semi-habituated elephants.

Camp Okavango

Accommodation at the camp is in intimate exclusivity in 12 East-African-model en suite safari tents, each gracefully nestled on elevated private sun-decks.
The interior each tent is artistically furnished with a wardrobe, luggage rack, dressing table, bedside pedestals and traditional director’s chairs.
Other facilities include a cocktail bar, wildlife reference library, laundry service, sheltered bird-viewing area, reading benches and a delightful sun-deck and plunge pool for relaxation during the hot afternoons.

For those guests who may demand pristine exclusivity; services offered are friendly from knowledgeable guides and excellent pan-African cuisine. Meals are served at romantically lit candelabra dining tables.
Camp Okavango boasts “Okavango Suite”, a superb thatched cottage offering complete privacy and which has proved to be popular with honeymooners with several options of private game-viewing activities. There is also an expansive open-air patio for evenings around a blazing camp fire.

Activities at the Camp

There are several game viewing activities in Camp Okavango. The camp neighbours Moremi Game Reserve, a diverse habitat that is home to a wide variety of animals which makes it possible to see Wild Dogs, Cheetahs and Leopards wandering within the reserve on guided game drives. Resident species include Buffalo, Lion, Elephant, Hippo, Giraffe, Kudu, Red Lechwe, Hyena, Zebra, Sable and the Roan Antelope. Seasonal fishing and motorboat rides are also popular activities. There is bird watching which also eye catching particularly near the water logged areas and Okavango swamps. However, children below the age of 16 years are not permitted.

Map of Botswana

Botswana has several places to visit. Botswana safaris take you to the world’s finest tourist destination, a land where wildlife competes for land and resources with man.
Geographically, Botswana is flat and up to 70% of Botswana is covered by the Kalahari Desert. The Botswana map shows the country is bordered by South Africa to the south and southeast, Namibia to the west and north, and Zimbabwe to the northeast. It meets Zambia at a single point.
Administratively, Botswana has nine districts, and its capital is Gaborone. Kasane, Kazangula, Francistown, Gweta, Nata, Serowe, Maun, Ghanzi and Shakawe are the other main towns in Botswana.
The tourism map of Botswana depicts a country of magnificent extremes with several national parks and game reserves including Chobe National Park, Moremi game reserve, Makgadikgadi and Nxai Pan National Parks, Central Kalahari Game Reserve, Khutse Game Reserve and many others.

For more Botswana travel, tourism, safaris, people and location information, visit our Botswana country profile page.

REGISTERED TOUR OPERATORS IN BOTSWANA 

Hippo in Chobe River

Declared a National Park in 1967, Chobe covers 10,566 sq km and is the third largest national park in Botswana after Central Kalahari Game Reserve and Gemsbok National Park. This first National Park in Botswana lies along Chobe River in the Northern region and borders Moremi Game Reserve in the south.

Of the three National Parks, Chobe is the more diverse and houses the largest number of elephant in Africa. Also home to the African Big Five, Chobe is particularly renowned for elephants and buffaloes; plus the two rare antelope i.e. the puku and the Chobe bushbuck. The wide Chobe River is the lifeblood of the area and feeds adjacent floodplains much loved by Elephants.

Chobe becomes a wildlife lover’s haven particularly between May and late September (the dry spell), because massive herds of Buffalo, Eland, Giraffe, Impala, Oribi, Roan, Tsessebe, Waterbuck, Wildebeest and Zebra become superbly visible more easily especially when the foliage has reduced.

Chobe Ecosystems – Chobe topography has 4 distinct ecosystems namely;

Serondela Area

Serondela Safari Elephants

Serondela area with its lush plains is situated in the extreme Northeast of the park. The area is covered with extensive savannahs and rolling grasslands, which makes wildlife particularly dynamic in this section of the park. The famous bee-eater is also spotted here, along the river. Serondela is reputed for its annual migration of zebras and predators. The Chobe River, which flows along the Northeastern border of the park, is a drinking spot for elephants and buffaloes in the dry season.

Linyanti Swamps

Linyanti Swamps

Situated at the North-west corner of Chobe and to the North of Savuti, are adjacent to Linyanti River. To the west of them lie Selinda Reserve and on the Northern bank of Kwando River is Namibia’s Mamili NP. Close to these 2 rivers are riverine woodlands, open woodlands plus lagoons, while the rest of the region mainly has flood plains. Prominent are high concentrations of leopards, lions, wild dogs, Roan antelopes, Sable antelopes and hippopotamuses.

Savuti Marsh

Savuti Marsh in size 10,878 sq km constitutes the western stretch of the park. The Savuti Marsh is the relic of a large inland lake whose water supply was cut a long time ago by tectonic movements. The marsh is presently supplied by the erratic Savuti Channel, which fills up when rainfall is abundant and floods up at other times. The region is covered with extensive savannahs and rolling grasslands. When it’s dry, tourists can easily view warthogs, kudus, impalas, zebras, wildebeests and the bully elephants. In the wet seasons, the rich birdlife of the park (over 450 species) is well represented. This region is also reputed for its annual migration of zebras and predators.

Hot Dry Hinterland

hinterland-birds

Hot dry hinterland has a very rich Birdlife.

Central Kalahari Game Reserve
Central Kalahari Game Reserve, the largest game reserve in the world and Africa’s most remote area covers 52,800sq km of wilderness and dominates the central regions of Botswana. The Game Reserve is an extensive national park in to Kalahari Desert. It also doubles as the largest game reserve in Botswana and its characterized by vast open plains and salt pans. This extensive national park  and was established in 1961 and is highly remote characterize by unforgiving climate and harsh terrain which have kept it pristine and only the fully self-sufficient traveler would venture into the reserve alone. However of recent it has been closed to the public.
Flora and Fauna

Central Kalahari Blue Wildebeests
CKGR is a habitat to a wide range of wildlife including brown hyena, blue wildebeest, eland, gemsbok, cheetah, giraffe, warthog, wild dog, leopard, lion, kudu and red hartebeest. Game here is in barren region compared to what exists in the northern parks: desert species dominate: springbok, gemsbok and eland – and there is a sound number of predators, particularly lion. Although there are permanent waterholes, more water-dependent animals like elephant and buffalo are absent while the huge water-based migrations of blue wildebeests and zebra are, unfortunately no longer present.
Geography
This arid terrain is generally even and gently rolling covered with shrub grasses with some sections covered in sand dunes punctuated with areas of larger trees. Existing river valleys are fossilized with salt pans plus 4 ancient riverbeds whose rivers meander through the reserve; for instance Deception Valley-a dusty old watercourse which began to form about 16,000 years ago- but a radiant game watching vicinity today. The reserve is also dominant with flaxen grasslands. Some solitary mopane, camel thorn, Kalahari apple, and silver custer-leaf trees stand in isolation in expansive fields of grass.
The San Bushmen

Kalahari San Bushmen
Central Kalahari Game Reserve surprisingly was established not to protect the endangered wildlife, but instead focused on providing defensive cover to the nomadic San Bushmen. It was to create a refuge for the San Bushmen in this natural environment for their survival. These Bushmen have inhabited Kalahari for thousands of years ever since roaming here as nomadic hunters and being the original inhabitants of this land for the last 30,000 years.
They survived in nomadic-hunter cluster families, an art form in the Kalahari. They lived a defined lifestyle which turned disgrace to the stylish Europeans after colonizing Southern Africa. As a result the Bushmen found themselves being hunted to extinction.
It was because of this that their survival became a prime issue in 1961 when Botswana was still a British Protectorate, and the Central Kalahari Game Reserve was formed as their homeland. Most have now intermixed with other tribes such as the Bakgalagadi, and live in villages at the southern end of this reserve. Their traditional lifestyle is now extinct although some bush survival knowledge is still passed on present generations.
Best time to visit
Wet Season; The best time to visit the northern Central Kalahari Game Reserve is during or slightly after the rains which come in late November to late March. This is when the grazing is at its finest. The birding during this time is admirable especially when the resident species have been joined by migrant birds, and raptors are particularly well represented. However the rainfall is at times irregular. Rainstorms are common and in most times make the roads very muddy and impassable.
Dry season: May to October is hot, dry and dusty in the Kalahari with little water and limited animals. The hottest spell peaks in October.
Getting There
To get there you’ll need to charter a flight plane from Maun – a small town on the Okavango Delta, otherwise it’s a long and dusty drive. In the event of driving, a fully equipped 4WD is highly recommended.

THE “BIG FIVE” IN BOTSWANA

African buffalo; this is one of Africa’s most fierce of the “Big Five” – so named for being exceptionally dangerous animals by early hunters. They tend to become exceedingly aggressive if cornered or injured.

Elephant; Botswana boasts Africa’s largest population of elephants – well above 100,000 in number, mostly concentrated in the country’s north. Perfect viewing is along the Savuti Channel, Linyanti and along the riverfront in Chobe National Park.

Leopards; are reliably common all over Botswana. They live a solitary and cautious lifestyle. Leopards are terrific hunters and prey on a broad range of species including impala, warthog, bushbuck, birds. A visit to the Okavango Delta presents the most vivid chance for seeing a leopard in Botswana.

Lions; are found throughout much of Botswana in the huge areas protecting wildlife in the country. There is an estimated 2500-3500 lions wandering wild in Botswana, with a good number residing in Chobe National Park, Linyanti, the Okavango Delta as well as in the southern Limpopo regions; they are also predominant in the Central Kalahari and Makgadikgadi areas.

The Black and White rhinoceros had been extinct in Botswana since the 1980′s but have recently been reintroduced in the Okavango Delta. These animals have been brutally hunted to extinction in much of their original range for their horns, which are used in the Far East for superstitious, virility medications and potions.

LARGE PREDATORS

African wild dog; it is one of the most endangered animals in Africa, with estimates of 3000-4000 animals left in the wild, most in southern Africa. The Okavango and Linyanti are their strongholds in Botswana. This is another prized safari animal and many people come to Botswana with the wild dog on the top of their desire list.

Spotted hyena; occurs widely throughout in Chobe National Park, the Okavango and Linyanti. This animal is considered to be one of Africa’s “super predators” along with lions. They are mistakenly thought to be scavengers by many; however, they are extremely proficient hunters in their own right.

Brown Hyena; is a very strange animal and hence seen less as their numbers are far lower. In Botswana they occur in the central Kalahari and the Makgadikgadi in sizeable numbers but seldom in the Okavango.

HERBIVORES

Eland; this is Africa’s largest antelope species, with males averaging 600 kg., but reaching 900 kg. They are uncommon in Botswana, but Chobe has a recognizable number and they occur sporadically in the Okavango.

The hippo (Hippopotamus); these bulky animals are very familiar in Africa and popular wherever suitable habitat, that being fresh water, is found. Come second in body weight only to the elephant, with adult average weight close to 1.5 tonnes.

Giraffe; this is Africa’s tallest animal and is common wherever its preferred trees i.e. acacia, Lead wood, sausage trees, and other species grow. The giraffe’s long neck and jagged spot patterns make it another unmistakable animal and a favorite for its graceful motion and calm nature.

Cheetahs; this is Botswana’s big cat and also a prized attraction for cat lovers. Cheetahs hunt by running down their prey with their incredible speed over short distances. Cheetahs have been clocked chasing prey at over 100 km/ hr, but can only keep up this pace over short distances and they must rest to recover before feeding. Cheetahs need wide open spaces to hunt their prey and are found on the dry islands of the Okavango and the Central Kalahari areas.

ANTELOPES

Blue wildebeest; is often seen grazing alongside zebras on Botswana’s grassy plains. Together with the zebra, they form the great herds of Botswana and the only remaining migration in the country.

Gemsbok; is a swift antelope with long, straight and very impressive horns ending in a sharp point. Very dangerous when wounded and it has been known to impale lions with its horns. Dominant in dry habitats.

The sitatunga; this is a shy animal that typically stays hidden in the papyrus and a sitatunga sighting is a special treat. As one of Botswana’s semi-aquatic antelopes along with red lechwe and waterbucks, it depends on water; it is not an amphibius animal. It is common around permanent water-inundated areas of the Okavango Delta and the Linyanti river system.

Roan antelope; The roan is also found only in specific habitats and is not abundant anywhere, making it another special Botswana safari sighting.

Zebra; Botswana’s zebra are the Burchelle’s zebra and they are certainly one of the more recognizable animals for anyone on a safari. Zebra are the “wild horse” of the African plains and their beauty as the graze in herds is one of Botswana’s most photogenic sights.

Great efforts are being done to protect all this wildlife, although it requires joint collaboration from other countries to make everything working. A Botswana is simply a unique place for wildlife conservation and Botswana safaris.

Its people are called ‘Batswana‘ regardless of background. Formerly a British protectorate of Bechuanaland, Botswana adopted its new name after gaining Sovereignty within the Commonwealth on 30th September 1966.

Geography and environment
Geographically the country is flat and up to 70% of Botswana is covered by the Kalahari Desert. Botswana was one of the most impoverished countries in Africa when it became independent in 1966.

LOCATION

The Okavango Delta

At 600,370 sq km, Botswana is the world’s 45th-largest country. It is comparable in size to Madagascar. It is predominantly flat, tending toward gently rolling tableland and is dominated by the Kalahari Desert, which covers up to 70% of its land surface. The Okavango Delta, the world’s largest inland delta, is in the northwest. The Makgadikgadi Pan, a vast salt pan, lies in the north. It shares borders with South Africa in the south and southeast, Namibia in the west and north and Zimbabwe in the northeast; and meets Zambia at a single point.

The Limpopo River Basin, the major landform of all of southern Africa, lies partly in Botswana, in the southeast of the country. The Chobe River lies to the north, providing a boundary between Botswana and Namibia. The Chobe River meets with the Zambezi River at a place called Kazungula. The Zambezi River is the boundary between Botswana and Zambia.

Fast Flowing Section of the Zambezi

BOTSWANA WILDLIFE
Botswana has diverse areas of wildlife habitation. In addition to the delta and desert areas, there are grasslands and savannas, where Blue Wildebeest, many antelopes, and other mammals and birds are found. Northern Botswana has one of the few remaining large populations of the endangered African Wild Dog. The Chobe National Park, found in the Chobe District, has the world’s largest concentration of African elephants. The park covers about 1000 sq km and supports about 350 species of birds.

Chobe Park Elephants in Serondela

The Chobe National Park and Moremi Game Reserve are major tourist targets. Other reserves include the Central Kalahari Game Reserve located in the Kalahari Desert in Ghanzi District; Makgadikgadi and Nxai Pans National Parks in the Makgadikgadi Pan. Mashatu Game Reserve is privately owned located where the Shashe River and Limpopo River meet in eastern Botswana. The other privately owned reserve is Mokolodi Nature Reserve near Gaborone. There are also specialized sanctuaries like the Khama Rhino Sanctuary renowned for Rhinoceros and Makgadikgadi Sanctuary prominent for Flamingos both found in Central District.

ECONOMY
Since independence, Botswana has had one of the fastest growth rates in per capita income in the world. The country has transformed itself from one of the poorest countries in the world to a middle-income country. By one estimate, it has the fourth highest gross national income at purchasing power parity in Africa.

Today, it is home to a relatively stable political system and a rapidly developing market economy. Being closely tied with the economy of South Africa, the country’s economy is one of the most successful in Africa and is dominated by the fast-growing service sector, world-renowned diamond industry, tourism, and manufacturing. Botswana boasts of a high level of economic freedom compared to other African countries. Rich in diamond also, Debswana is the largest diamond mining company operating in Botswana, with 50% owned by the government. Mineral industry provides about 40% of all government revenues.

WEATHER IN BOTSWANA

Botswana experiences a semi-arid climate although it is hot and dry for most of the year.

Summer in the country begins in November climaxing in late March. It usually characterized with extremely high temperatures. This is the time when Botswana is hottest especially in the weeks that precede the coming of the cooling rains. Shade temperatures rise to the 38°C mark.

Winter in Botswana commences in May and ending in late July. This is also the dry season when virtually no rainfall occurs. Winter days are invariably sunny and cool to warm.

In Botswana, the rains dominantly occur in the summer with October and April being transitional months. Rainfall is irregular and tends to be a regional phenomenon. Often a heavy downpour may occur in one area while 10 or 15 km away there is no rain at all.

The Okavango Delta
The Delta, a tranquil and isolated oasis set in Botswana’s harsh and arid desert – widely considered as being one of Africa’s best safari destinations with its special diversity of fauna and flora. The River Okavango, which rises in the highlands of Angola, never reaches the sea; instead, its mighty waters empty over the sand of the Kalahari Desert. Here the thirst land of the south meets a blue-green wilderness of fresh water, with emerald reedbeds and towering trees.

Okavango Wildebeests
Okavango Wildlife
The Okavango delta is both a permanent and seasonal home to a wide variety of wildlife which is now a popular tourist attraction. Species include; the white and black rhino, the Nile crocodile, hippos, African Bush elephants, African buffalo, Zebra, antelopes among many others. These animals feed on aquatic plants and take to water once they are threatened by predators. Majority of these estimated 200.000 large mammals in and around the delta are not year round residents. They leave with the summer rains to find renewed fields of grass to graze on and trees to browse, and then make their way back as winter approaches. Large herds of buffalo and elephant total about 30,000 beasts.

The African Fish Eagle

There are about four hundred bird species which have been recorded in the delta and they include the Crested Crane, Ostrich, African Fish Eagle, Lilac-breasted Roller and Sacred Ibis.
Okavango Seasonal Floods
An important feature of the Okavango is the seasonal flooding which commences in mid-summer in the north and ends about six months later in the south. This seasonal flood peaks in the dry season. This results in a cyclical motion of water rising in the north as it recedes in the south during summer, and a rising in the south as it drops in the north during winter. The nature of the annual floods is gentle with floodplains and islands disappearing under water and then reappearing in an ever-changing landscape at the end of each season – this is particularly pronounced in the central Okavango. Excellent game-viewing is during annual flood
Accommodation in the Okavango Delta
Most of the safari lodges located on the edges of the delta.

Jao Camp Okavango
A number of Safari lodges and camp to cater for tourists on Botswana Safaris are numerous in and around this watery wilderness. These include Abu Camp, Delta Camp, Jao Camp, Xakanaxa Camp, Okavango House Boats, Oddball’s Camp, Kwara Camp, Mapula Lodge, Oddballs Enclave, Moremi Crossing, Camp Moremi, Xugana Island Lodge,Little Kwara Camp, Khwai River Lodge, Nxabega Safari Camp, Baines Camp, Sandibe Safari Lodge, Xudum Delta Lodge,  Mapula Lodge and many others.
During your African safari to the Okavango Delta you have several options of where to stay as you experience close encounters with big herds of wildlife as well as several rare bird species.
ACTIVITIES IN THE OKAVANGO DELTA
Game Safaris
Okavango Delta is a permanent and seasonal habitat to a wide variety of animals such as; the white and black rhino, the Nile crocodile, hippos, African Bush elephants, African buffalo, Zebra, antelopes among many others. July to October is the prime game viewing period in the Delta. Game safaris can include a foot tour or tours by canoe.
Bird Watching
The Okavango Delta offers a safe haven for innumerable bird varieties which makes a bird watchers paradise, both on and off the water. There are over 500 species of birds which have been recorded in the delta among which includes ostrich, sacred ibis, African fish eagle, crested crane, the lilac-breasted roller, etc.
Mokoro Rides
Visitors can decide to venture into the Delta’s wild on a canoe or a mokoro using the vast network of rivers and swamps or choose to take you camera on a game drive, the diversity of this unique habitat never fails to impress.

Botswana is a small landlocked country situated in southern Africa. It shares borders with South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Zambia. Botswana is a scenic country that welcomes adventure and air travelers from all over the world who come to have a glimpse of some of Africa’s last great wildernesses, including the famous Okavango Swamps and the Kalahari Desert. Every permutation of the African safari experience is possible in this country. It is because of this that most Botswana flights are competitive and pricy. Guideforafrica offers you a fast guide and information on the cheap flights to Botswana, your flight destination and flying with cheap airlines.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana is responsible for all air travel and airports in Botswana.

Flights to Botswana from popular destinations

• Flights to Botswana from South Africa – best Airline is South Africa Airways

• Flights to Botswana from Namibia – best Airlines is Air Namibia

• Flights to Botswana from Switzerland – Multiple Airlines.

• Flights to Botswana from Zimbabwe – best Airline is Air Zimbabwe.

Cheap flights to Botswana are relatively easy to find, but better deals may be available flying into South Africa.

Airlines to Botswana

Air Botswana-National Carrier

A large number of International Airlines offer price cut flights to Botswana on a regular basis.

• Air Botswana – This is the national carrier and has the largest scheduled network. It operates daily returns flights from Johannesburg to Maun with some via Gabon depending on weather. Three return flights weekly to Kasane from Johannesburg and three times a week direct from Cape Town to Maun.

• South African Airways

• British Airways

• Delta Air

• Virgin Atlantic

• Northwest Airlines

All flights from South Africa head off from Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport with SAA flying directly to Botswana.

Others Airlines offering cheap flights to Botswana include;

Egyptair, Virgin, Lufthansa, BMI, Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Air France, Ryanair Airlines, Royal Air Maroc, the Emirates, Atlas Blue Airlines and El Al Israel.

Most major Airlines with cheap Botswana flights set off from neighbors South Africa. Our sincere recommendation is that you book your air ticket long in advance because of the busy schedule of most Airlines to the country.

Domestic Botswana flights are available within the country. Charter flights are also available to further remote destinations with most charter flights originating from Maun.

Popular Departure Airports for Botswana Flights

• Glasgow International
• Aberdeen
• Teesside
• London Heathrow
• Belfast City
• Birmingham
• Edinburgh
• Inverness
• Newcastle
• Manchester

Botswana Airports

• Sir Seretse Khama International (GBE)

Sir Seretse Khama International

This is main International Airport and is situated 9 miles northwest of Gaborone, the capital city; and handles direct flights from South Africa with Air Botswana and South African Airways. The flight time is about 1hr from Johannesburg because it’s close.

• Maun International Airport (MUB) – this handles direct flights from Windhoek, Johannesburg, Cape Town and Harare.

Chobe National Park Elephants

Chobe was Botswana’s first national park and is impressively famous for its immense numbers of elephants. The Park has arguably the largest Elephant population in the world and is home to great numbers of other game species. The wide Chobe River is the lifeblood of the area and feeds adjacent floodplains much loved by Elephants. The Park covers a variety of the country’s riverine forest including floodplains and the mopane and miombo woodland.

Chobe  Eco-systems & the wildlife: Chobe is divided into four clearly diverse Eco-systems;

• Serondela area with its lush plains and situated in the extreme Northeast of the park. The area is covered with extensive savannah and rolling grasslands, which makes wildlife particularly dynamic in this section of the park. The famous bee-eater is also spotted here, along the river. Serondela is also reputed for its annual migration of zebras and predators. This is probably the most visited park section, partly due to its proximity to the Victoria Falls.
• The Linyanti Swamps located at the North-west corner of the park and to the North of Savuti, is adjacent to Linyanti River. To the west of this area lies Selinda Reserve and on the Northern bank of Kwando River is Namibia‘s Mamili National Park. Close to these 2 rivers are riverine woodlands, open woodlands plus lagoons, while the rest of the region mainly has flood plains. Prominent are high concentrations of leopards, lions, wild dogs, Roan antelopes, Sable antelopes and hippopotamuses.
• Hot dry hinterland; Birdlife is very rich here.
• The Savuti Marsh in the west about 50 km north of Mababe gate. The rare red lechwe, sitatunga or crocodile also occur in the area.  Adventurous travelers who desire to experience a large scale migration of animals you must visit the Savuti Marsh. It is renowned for its annual trek of zebras and predators.  Sometimes you will have them uncomfortably close, as both they and marauding hyenas do wander through the campsite

Elephants crossing River Chobe

When to Visit
Chobe National Park said to be a natural world lover’s haven particularly between May and late September (the dry spell), has immense herds of Buffalo, Eland, Giraffe, Impala, Lechwe, Oribi, Roan, Tsessebe, Waterbuck, Wildebeest and Zebra that can be observed more easily. In other words the animals are superbly visible especially when the foliage has reduced. Such a multiplicity of habitats attracts a variety of natural world.
Chobe Safaris
Game drives in the Chobe National Park offers excellent game viewing opportunities. Cruise down the Chobe River in a luxury safari boat. In the dry season, Elephants congregate by the river in enormous numbers with the river side area offering magnificent bird viewing. Predators like Leopards and lions are common figures in Chobe National Park; similarly there are several Hippos and Crocodiles in Chobe River. Wild pig, baboons and monkeys also make Chobe National Park their habitat.

Chobe Bird

Birding is amazing especially when the migrant birds come between late November to late March. It is such uniqueness in abundance of wildlife that makes Chobe a true African safari nature deservedly to experience in anyone’s life span.
Caution!!!
There are no fuel supplies available within the Chobe and therefore tourists traveling between Kasane and Maun should be prepared with fuel to take them through the whole journey. Carry your own boiled drinking water or chemically treated. Mosquitoes are prevalent throughout the park and visitors are strongly advised to take an anti-malarial treatment before, during and for four weeks from visiting the park, especially during the rainy season.
Chobe National Park’s basic attraction is its elephant concentration. You have not experience the true  African elephant on a Chobe safari.

Makgadikgadi Salt Pans Botswana

The Nxai pans were once part of the great lake that covered central Botswana, but now they are mostly fossil pans, covered with good grasslands rather than salt. In the wet season, after December, the game is plentiful with large herds of gemsbok, springbok, zebra and wildebeest and many lion, cheetah and hyena.
There may be no permanent accommodation safari lodges or guest houses in the park, but there are several designated campsites. However, this hinders quick access and camping safaris in here. Nonetheless the fully equipped private-drive tourist or those on tailor-made safaris can maneuver through to satisfy their interests.
Private Safari Trails in the Park
For Botswana Safaris, a 4WD is recommended throughout this park, as even in the dry season the pan surface can be treacherous with the unseen water table lurking often just inches under the hard-baked surface. Once on the pans the exhilaration of speeding across the flat surface in unforgettable.

Be at one with nature on one of the most excellent safari accommodation in Africa. For the ultimate Botswana vacation experience, you will often team up your presence with nature’s beauty here.
Botswana, one of Africa’s breathtaking wildernesses is an exceptional luxury safari destination and boasts one of the most comprehensive tour operators with tremendous lodges and safaris on the continent.
These Safari accommodation options range from top class hotels, luxury lodges and ancient safari camps, to budget guesthouses, canvas tented lodges and Crest suites.
Guideforafrica.com makes for you a quick selection of the best safari accommodations for your memorable Botswana safaris visit
A variety of cuisines are served at these facilities ranging from local favourites and game meat, to continental and Asian dishes. There are also plenty of fast food outlets and small restaurants/takeaways offering local dishes spiced up with game meat at times.
Nxabega Okavango Safari Camp: Nxabega Okavango Safari Camp is located on the edge of the Okavango Delta in a 7,000- hectare exclusive wildlife concession bordering the Moremi Game Reserve. This intimate camp provides magnificent views of the Okavango Delta and its array of Birds and wild animals.
Sandibe Safari Lodge: Set on a permanent channel of the magnificent Okavango Delta, the beautiful thatched Sandibe safari camp is adjacent to the game-rich Moremi Wildlife Reserve on a 72 sq km private concession.
The major tourist destinations in the country also have a choice of public camping sites. Botswana’s environmental extremes allow for an appealing variety of holiday. There are also some others though a bit restricted due to the nature of their inaccessibility and ruggedness. The country’s hotels and safari lodge facilities are of international standard and renowned for their class and distinctiveness.
The Chobe reserve for instance takes pride in a number of up-market game lodges, camps and hotels as well as other modern amenities such as Chobe Chilwero, Chobe Marina Lodge, Chobe Safari Lodge, Liya Guest Lodge, Mowana, Safari Lodge, Sedudu Guest House, The Garden Lodge, Water Lily Lodge, Baobab 1 & 2 Safari Lodges, Muchenje Safari Lodge, and Chobe Game Lodge to mention but a few.
Gaborone, the capital City also boasts a number of safari accommodations include Boiketlo Lodge, Brackendene Guest House, Cresta Lodge, Cresta President Hotel, Ditshane Lodge, Falcon Crest Suites, Gaborone Hotel & Casino, Gaborone Sun Hotel, Hotel Crystal Palace, Innisfree Apartments, Mopken Guesthouse, Letlhakeng Lodge, Kgale View Lodge, Lape Lodge, Rehoboth Guest House, Metcourt Inn, Planet Lodge -Ext 4 and Sedibeng Guest House.
The Okavango Basin, an endorheic basin that includes the Okavango River and Okavango Delta also poses with facilities like Camp Okavango, Chitabe Camp, Delta Camp, and Duba Plains Camp, Camp okuti plus many others. Contact information is available on their official websites.
Other available Botswana accommodation options found in Maun, Kgalagadi, and Kasane include Savuti Elephant Camp, Panda Rest Camp, Ngina Safaris Botswana, Toro Safari Lodge Star, Elephant Valley Lodge, Lesoma Valley Lodge and Senyati Safari Camp
It’s because of the quality offered, that a number of Botswana accommodations have received international recognition and are award winners. This is attributed to their superior accommodation, hospitality of camp guides and eco-oriented hotel practices available at unusual discounted rates.
Interesting to note also is the presence of explicit family safaris in Okavango and Kalahari, one of the exceptional attractions of the young explorer’s safaris. These have exclusivity as each family has solitary use of a personal camp, enabling daily schedule to be flexibly personalized around their class, ages and preference of family members. Your Botswana travel is sure to have you coming back for more.

The Mombo Camp

aren’t too close for comfort. Each tent is expertly positioned within the protective and refreshing  shade of some huge ebony and fig trees overlooking the glorious open floodplains adjoining the northern tip of Chief’s Island with stunning large concentrations of wildlife.
Bathroom facilities are all en suite and showers are available. The spectacular views from this location are simply awe-inspiring and guests can take in these inspirational sights from the comfort of the long lounge areas.
The central living areas of the camp are all thatched. Dinner is served inside the boma

Mombo Game Drive Safaris

which allows guests a panoramic view of the night sky.
Mombo camp, a legendary area of Borea, is run that offers abundant big game viewing throughout the year to possibly rank the most excellent in Botswana. Its spotlight is the concentration of plains game and the predators – including the big cats. Visitors have chance to also see Elephants, Zebra, Wildebeests, Giraffes, White and Black Rhinos as well as large herds of Buffalo. Lion sightings are particularly first-class as commonly said that this is the ‘original predator capital of

Immature Mathata Pride

Africa’, and the only place in Botswana where the ‘Big Five’ can be seen in one tourist destination. Access into this zone is mainly limited to light aircrafts. The huge numbers of big cats in this region and inter-predator interaction a safari feature is why Mombo has become Botswana’s most sought after camp, often booked 9 months in advance.
Mombo Activities
Mombo area is one of the most excellent wildlife viewing opportunities on earth. It’s an exclusive wildlife destination especially for predators a

Mombo Camp Interior

record unrivalled in Africa, Leopard Buffalo, Lion, Cheetah, Elephant (Big Five) and all the major predators are common in the region. It has become renowned for its high concentration of predators including the Wild Dog. Birdlife is also prolific. The excellent, thriving wildlife and excellent viewing around Mombo has sprung this area Botswana’s top wildlife documentary location. The additional bonus of being the only place in Botswana where the ‘Big Five’ can be found in one location, Mombo’s game viewing is not only unique but continually terrific year in year out. Plentiful game viewing is feasible in all seasons with the highlight being the enormous concentrations of particularly the predators and the big cats.
- Game Drives: Game drives take place in a comfortable and powerful 4×4 to ensure that guests are able to travel to each corner of the reserve with guidance of professional game rangers.
- Night Camping: Visitors get chance to enjoy nights filled with blissful relaxation under the clear Okavango stars outside the camp.
Best Time to Visit for Safari
For the weather, May and October offers the best time to vacation in the country, when the Delta is in flood, the temperature is perfect and game viewing is at its most outstanding. November and December also present splendid times on safari because of the evident transformation of the habitat as a reason of the rains.

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conditions.
Wildlife
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park has several different species of animals including large herds of migrating springbok, oryx and blue wildebeest and the desert adapted gemsbok. The Park is also home to the Kudu, grey duiker, red hartebeest, steenbok and the rare eland and impala. Other predators present are cheetah, leopard, brown and spotted hyena and wild dog. Smaller animals include the cape and bat eared fox, yellow, slender and banded mongoose, honey badger, aardwolf, polecat, pangolin and genet. The Park is famous for the huge, black-manned Kalahari Lion.
Bird Life
Over 290 species of bird are found in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park including more than 50 different species of raptors seen patrolling the skies over the reserve such as buzzards, eagles and secretary birds. However, only about 96 are resident. Determined birders can not also fail to spot the birds of prey which are seasonal in the park such as the Pygmy falcon – the smallest falcon in Africa.
Accommodation
On the Botswana side;
- Tow Rivers camp
- Twee Rivieren camp
- Rooipute Camp
- Polentswa Camp
In South Africa;
- Twee Rivieren RestCamp
- Mata Mata Rest Camp
- Nossob Rest Camp
Getting There
For visitors from South Africa, you can only use the road leading to entrance at Twee Rivieren Gate situated approximately 260 km north from Upington. It is a nice road with good stretches that you can even drive over 3 hours at constant speed. However, visitors are warmed to fuel in Upington since there are no more opportunities on the road up to the park. For cases of emergencies, pack all you need for the trip. There are no places to acquire the basics such as food, drinking water, and firewood.
For visitors from Botswana, there are two entries i.e. Kaa and Mabuasehube. Similarly have full tank before to drive and pack all the basics for the safari.

Savuti Camp

Camp Description
Savuti Camp is a comfortable luxury camp which offers intimacy unmatched in the reserve. The camp lodge was constructed in a way that night drives and walking safaris are possible if the resident chose to do. It is well hidden in place for perfect game viewing.
It is facilitated with;

• 7 luxurious en-suite tent facilities.
• A Swimming pool.
• Thatched dining area
• A waterhole nearby
• It also has a curio shop and a boma area.
• Its rooms are raised off the ground on firm wooden decks
• It has a bar as well

Linyanti Wildlife Reserve
The Linyanti is widely regarded as a predator’s commune with all the cats on show and

Savuti Camp Room

great diversity of overall game. It offers one of Africa’s most exhilarating wildlife safari experiences. It extends up to 125,000 hectares of prime wildlife country lying between the Chobe and Okavango vicinities. The reserve is comparable twice South Africa’s Sabi Sands Game Reserve in size. The large concentration of elephants are the reserve’s major attractions .Several thousand elephants roam around the waterholes and waterways especially in the winter months when they are forced to gather there for water especially after it has rained. Other animals common in Linyanti Game Reserve are the Red Lechwe, Zebra, Wildebeest, Impala, Waterbuck, Sable, Roan, Eland, Giraffe, Baboon, Monkey, Warthog, Crocodile and Buffaloes. Then there are the predators Lion, Leopard, Cheetah, Wild Dog and Hyena.
In plenty also are the Birds. Birding is wonderful in Linyanti game reserve. Some of the common bird species found here include the Slaty Egret, Whiterumped Babblers and Wattled Cranes and the bushveld species.
Savuti Early Bushmen
The early hunter-gatherers undoubtedly had settlements here, evidenced by sites in the hills around Savuti with rock art. Archaeologists connect these paintings with those in the Tsodilo Hills, and with the traditions of people of the Okavango. These sites are known to some of the guides at the lodges, and if you are accommodated here then request for your guide to show them to you. Not only is exploring on foot against the park’s rules, but the concentration of lion and elephant population here is enormous that it’s dangerous for the inexperienced.

Wildlife

Camp Moremi

• Camp Moremi: it’s nestled on the amazing Xakanaxa Lagoon in the Okavango Delta and is said to be one of the best game viewing areas in Botswana. Camp Moremi can only accommodate a maximum of 22 visitors.
• Baines Camp: it’s located on River Boro in a secret concession NG32 adjacent the Game Reserve. It is another superb view point for viewing all animals and birds.
• Mombo Camp: This secret paradise of Mombo is positioned just off the northwestern tip of the scenic Chiefs Island and about 800m from the original Mombo. Large concentrations of wildlife are common in front of the new camp.
• Moremi Crossing safari camp: This is a 16 bedded tented safari camp situated on a beautiful palm dotted island overlooking Chief’s Island in the Reserve. It offers its guests luxury with uniqueness.
• Banoka Bush Luxury Camp: this is a relatively small camp situated in the Khwai Concession deep in a private area in north eastern Okavango Delta. It offers only 10 canvas units for perfect safaris in Botswana.
• Kwai River Lodge: Nestled on the edge of a leadwood and fig tree forest, overlooking the vast Khwai River floodplains and it’s renowned for its large concentrations of mammals.

Others camps Sandibe Safari Lodge, Chiefs, Stanleys, Little Mombo, Xigera, Xakanaxa Camp and Kwara Camps

Botswana safari packages guarantee Botswana adventure travelers memorable experiences with amazing wildlife, rich cultural heritage, striking landscape, pleasurable safari activities as well as luxury lodging accommodations.
Botswana is where it all begins. It’s also home to some of the world’s greatest wildlife and an absolute family safari destination. What makes Botswana such a special destination is that it offers travellers a wonderfully varied range of natural, unspoilt environments and classic safari adventures that will convince you that there really are wild places still left in the world today.
As one of the best and classy safari destinations in Africa, the country boasts of 2 major family safari camps-Jack’s Camp and the San Camp. Recommended family vacations in Botswana are the Okavango Delta, the Kalahari Desert (where one encounters rhinos with Bushmen) and the Victoria Falls. I would advocate for children of 10 years old and above getting the most out of  family safaris in Botswana. The minimum age for children to be 7 on this trip since most of the accommodation is in small private camps surrounded by wildlife.
Botswana wildlife safaris offer a true African wildlife experience. You can enjoy a lot of safaris from the water in local canoes called mokoros. There are chances to track the natural world with San Bushmen and crossing the border to view the magnificent Victoria Falls. The fact that most travel within Botswana is done by light aircraft, you also don’t have to spend too much time in cars driving lengthy distances, which at times gets boring to kids.
In Jack’s Camp, for instance the only site of assured guarantee to view the rare elusive brown hyenas, tour guides (often graduate students on research) most times combine with the local Bushmen in accompanying visitors through the game drives and morning walks. The Bushmen impart knowledge of plant life, animal behavior plus essential survival skills thus offering a complete desert experience.
Four wheel drive quad bikes are preferred for penetration into the centre of the Makgadikgadi. During the wet season incredible transformation occurs here with numerous species of migratory birds descending to decorate the watery grasslands.
Where to Stay
Once on safari to Botswana, you should have no accommodation worries. This celebrated tourist destination offers its visitors a wide range of accommodation options from top class hotels, luxury lodges and safari camps, to budget guesthouses and camping grounds. The major tourist areas have a choice of private lodges, safari camps, and public camping sites.
Several varieties of cuisines are served in these facilities from local dishes to international meals most times flavoured with game meat. There are also plenty of fast food outlets and small restaurants/takeaways offering local dishes.
Like in San Camp which is known to be one of the most romantic camps in Africa and located on a private concession adjoining the Makgadikgadi National Park occupies a tremendously remote reef. It nonetheless poses with classy customized lodge facilities with complete bucket showers, comfortable 4-poster beds with mosquito net canopies as well as flush toilet facilities.
Nxabega Safari Camp: Nxabega Okavango Safari Camp is situated on the edge of the Okavango Delta bordering the Moremi Game Reserve. This intimate camp provides magnificent views of the Okavango Delta and its array of Birds and wild animals.
Sandibe Safari Lodge: Built on a permanent channel of the glorious Okavango Delta, the beautiful thatched Sandibe safari camp lies adjacent to the amazing Moremi Game Reserve on a 70 sq km concession.
Top Safari Attractions in Botswana

• Vast Kalahari Desert
• Moremi Game Reserve – one of the world’s most amazing game reserves
• Awe-inspiring Okavango Delta – a lush watery wonderland in the midst of the arid Kalahari
• Fascinating culture of the San Bushmen

Best Time to Go
Important to note is that most Botswana safari tours are dominant in the months of March and November. You’ll therefore need to properly plan well in advance for your Botswana travel as there are 2 simple but distinctive seasons each with different interests and attractions. Peak season falls during the dry winter months between May and October, offering great game viewing as the wildlife becomes increasingly concentrated around water source.