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.
Rra Dinare
Rra Dinare is a breathtaking camp situated right next to the iconic Moremi Game Reserve on the southeastern edge of the majestic Okavango Delta. Perched perfectly to overlook the renowned Gomoti River and its expansive floodplains, this location is a dream for wildlife and birdlife enthusiasts.
The plains are alive with diverse wildlife, offering guests an unmatched safari experience. The stunning views create a serene, immersive connection to nature.
Sitatunga Private Island Suite
Located in the stunning Okavango Delta, the Sitatunga Private Island Suite offers a unique blend of luxury and nature. This exclusive safari villa combines serene surroundings with world-class facilities, creating a haven of comfort and tranquillity.
Thoughtfully designed to complement the natural environment, the Sitatunga Private Island Suite boasts exquisite interiors, a private deck overlooking the flowing waterways, and access to a range of awe-inspiring activities.
Savute Elephant Lodge
Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge has 12 luxurious safari suites on raised wooden decks overlooking the Savuti Channel, one of the most popular lodges in the Chobe National Park that we offer, and for a good reason.
Depending on the flood levels, safari activities at Savute Elephant Lodge include; game drives (morning and afternoon) as well as tours to the nearby rock paintings.
Little Vumbura Camp
The Vumbura private concession in the Okavango Delta is, without a doubt, one of the most remarkable safari destinations in Botswana. Offering incredible wildlife sightings and an unparalleled variety of activities, it guarantees an experience that is both thrilling and unforgettable.
Little Vumbura is a luxurious retreat in the heart of the stunning Okavango Delta, offering the perfect mix of exclusivity and comfort. This intimate lodge is ideal for both adventure and relaxation.
Mombo Camp
Mombo Camp is located on Chief's Island in the Moremi Game Reserve (part of the Okavango Delta) and is second to none in Botswana.
This is Mombo, a luxury option for those seeking the finest in service, decor, cuisine, and wildlife in the reserve; there is simply no other safari camp quite like it in the whole of Botswana.
Hyena Pan
Hyena Pan is an intimate safari camp in Botswana's beautiful Khwai Private Reserve. This exclusive camp offers unparalleled access to the wildlife of the area, including elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard and wild dog, as well as abundant birdlife.
Guests can enjoy luxurious tented suites with private decks and stunning views over the bushveld.
A variety of activities are available such as morning and afternoon game drives, a ground-level hide alongside the waterhole and wildlife walks with a highly skilled guide.
Families with children over 6 years are welcome and can make the most of this unique experience!
Little Sable Camp
Little Sable Camp is a luxurious and intimate safari camp in the Khwai Private Reserve, a private concession in the Okavango Delta of Botswana.
This exclusive tented camp offers eight suites designed to be secluded and private, with stunning natural scenery stretching out before them.
Guests can experience various safari activities with the opportunity to see large herds of elephants in the dry season or predators such as cheetahs and lions during the green season.
With over 350 species of birds calling Khwai Community Reserve home, birdwatchers will be treated to an incredible visual feast!
Skybeds
Nestled deep within the heart of Botswana's wilderness lies a truly unique safari experience—Skybeds. Offering an unparalleled opportunity to sleep under the vast expanse of African stars, Skybeds combines rustic charm with subtle touches of luxury.
Elevated three metres above the ground, these intimate wooden platforms provide a front-row seat to unspoiled landscapes and abundant wildlife, making it an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts and romantics alike.