Botswana Safari By Aircraft
Discover the Breathtaking Beauty of Botswana from the Sky: An Unforgettable Aerial Adventure Over the Okavango Delta and Beyond
Some people are nervous about heights; some are agoraphobic; my particular phobia is flying. Upon discovering that I would have to endure two 'big' and four 'little' planes over a period of just four days, a cold sweat came over me, which was slightly relieved when I discovered that we would be in one of the bigger Caravans instead of the much smaller Cessna’s.
While these light aircraft weren't built to be spacious, the 12-seater Caravans are more comfortable and less claustrophobic than the Cessna’s, which are either 4 or 6-seaters. The planes used to depend on the number of travellers. The Caravans also offer a slightly smoother ride, but the general rule is: if you're prone to motion sickness, sit up near the front as you won't feel the thermals as much.
As we slowly took off from Maun International Airport (don’t be thrown by the "International" part, Sunday afternoons at a ladies bridge club are busier) I sat there white-knuckled and pale-faced. After a while a strange thing happened, I started to feel comfortable. Martin, our very experienced and friendly pilot definitely eased the nerves, but I also found myself distracted by my surroundings: the little clay buildings dotted around the centre of Maun (which really is a tiny little town,) the huge amount of cattle and the full Thamalakane River which feeds from the Boro River, one of the main channels of the Okavango Delta.
This was my first time seeing Botswana from the air, and it helped put the scenery into perspective for me. Not only was the landscape impressive, especially flying over the Savute Marsh and the magnificence of the whole of the Okavango Delta, but I also saw abundant wildlife, including elephant, giraffe, and hippo fresh out of the water (which turned out to be the only hippo we saw in the whole trip).
By the time our safari had ended, and I found myself on Terra firma back at Maun Airport. I was already dreaming up my next safari and realising how much I had enjoyed my time, especially in the 'little' planes. The whole Botswana experience is a bucket-list contender, and I recommend it to everyone; the young and the 'mature'.
I certainly will be back to visit Botswana by Air again.
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Map of Lodges in and around Botswana
Lodges And Camps In Botswana
Tuli Safari Lodge Mashatu
Tuli Safari Lodge Mashatu is a luxury safari lodge situated along the banks of the Limpopo River in the Mashatu Game Reserve and Tuli Block area of Botswana. It offers guests an exclusive African experience with its luxurious appointed interiors and only eight tented suites - each featuring a private wooden deck and breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness. Guests can relax in the tranquil setting of the lodge and take advantage of its swimming pool, star-gazing deck, hide and walking trails, or explore the nearby wildlife.
Mashatu Tent Camp
Mashatu Tent Camp is a luxurious safari destination situated in the heart of Botswana's Mashatu Game Reserve. This picturesque tented camp offers an African experience, combining home comforts and nature's sounds. Tent Camp consists of 8 Meru-style tented suites, each fully furnished with modern amenities and creature comforts, while the surrounding wilderness offers a range of activities, including night game drives, guided nature walks and bird watching. A stay of 3-5 nights is recommended for a truly unique African bushveld experience.
Koro River Camp
Koro River Camp is a luxurious safari lodge located in Botswana's Tuli concession area on the Limpopo River's banks. River Camp offers seven tented suites with private decks that provide captivating views of the surrounding wilderness and wildlife. Guests can take advantage of various safari activities, including game drives, bush walks and safaris and night drives and mountain biking with experienced guides to provide a unique safari experience. Koro River is the perfect escape for families, solo travellers or groups looking to explore Botswana'sBotswana's wild beauty in comfort and safety.
Koro Island Camp
Koro Island Camp is situated on the Central Tuli Block of Botswana and is only accessible by an intricate suspension bridge over the Limpopo River. It is a classic safari camp, offering only four en-suite Meru safari tents for guests to experience the true African wilderness in comfort. Guests can partake in various activities such as game drives, bird watching and walking trails, perfect for small groups of explorers. Experience the wonders of nature in an unforgettable escape at Koro Island Camp!
Mashatu Euphorbia Villas
Mashatu Euphorbia Villas is a luxurious oasis in Botswana's world-renowned Mashatu Game Reserve. This luxurious safari lodge consists of just eight secluded villas crafted from local raw materials, offering guests an unforgettable experience amidst the stunning beauty of the Botswana bushveld. The lodge has implemented state-of-the-art solar energy and water treatment systems in keeping with its commitment to sustainability. Enjoy captivating safari activities or relax in the tranquillity of this remote hideaway for a truly unique experience.
Mashatu Lodge
The luxurious Mashatu Lodge is located in the heart of Botswana's Mashatu Game Reserve. The Lodge features just 14 luxury suites, each with modern amenities and creature comforts to ensure an unforgettable safari experience. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities while staying at Mashatu, from game walks to cultural tours and night drives. With its lush landscape and diverse wildlife, Mashatu Lodge is the perfect destination for a truly unique African safari experience.
Planet Baobab
Welcome to the quirky Planet Baobab Lodge in Botswana, close to the famed Makgadikgadi National Park, where you'll find yourself amongst ancient baobab trees and some of the best desert wildlife viewing opportunities in Africa. Here you can enjoy game drives, safari walks, quad biking, and much more! The accommodation options, excellent service, and numerous amazing safari activities make Planet Baobab a top destination for safaris. Simply put, if you are on more of a budget, look no further than Planet Baobab.
Meno a Kwena
A hidden gem of a camp perched on a rocky clifftop above the Boteti River and overlooking the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park. If you're looking for an amazing safari experience that is off the beaten path, Meno a Kwena should be at the top of your list. Whether you're a fan of wildlife viewing or just want to relax and take in the amazing night stars, Meno a Kwena Camp is definitely worth considering for your next safari in Botswana.