Having just returned from Botswana on what I regard as the "Best Botswana Safari Ever," I simply must share my experience. Flying over on Air Botswana was fine, no delays as such. On arrival I was mesmerized with just how small an international airport can be, Maun airport is truly nothing that I expected, but they say, great things come in small packages but not the case here.
On arrival, my safari guide met me with a smile and really made me feel welcome. It was straight to a restaurant which is situated about 50 metres across the road from Maun airport exit. While having lunch on a Karibu safari which is included in all packages they run, I was told about my next six days itinerary which now made me very excited.
We depart Maun and drive via town to stop for beverages that you as the client must purchase or order before your arrival drinks such as alcohol and soft drinks. Water, wine and sundowners are supplied and is included in your package, but this is for the game drives and during dinner at night times. From here we head straight for our first camp which is a good hour and a bit drive from Maun as it is a dirt road all the way so very bumpy at times but all part of the experience. On arrival you get introduced to the other camping crew who sets up camp as we traverse through Botswana, this is part of an Authentic Botswana Safari. I was elated to see the set up of a tent and most of all I loved having a bed with a mattress in my tent which makes the world of difference if you have a back like mine.
The first night was scary as I had these bush babies having a ball outside my tent and me being a city boy was none the wiser as all I thought was Lions.
Day two of the best Botswana safari ever was amazing as we headed for the channels of Moremi / Okavango Delta. A 3-hour journey on the water to reach Gcadikwe Island Camp. We spent two nights here with resident wild animals roaming about like Elephant and buffalo, oh and Hippo. The staff were all fantastic characters, all so full of joy and happy to have us.
Then we moved on to Khwai where we spent two nights doing the Botswana Stanley Safari. Excellent camping area right on the river's edge. These two nights were especially scary as Lions and hyena would roar and respectively scream at night. It was said that the pride of lions were about 1 km away yet with the roar seemed like only metres away at night and I found it hard to sleep due to the excitement. Hippos were also mating, and that sound alone was deafening. Then we were off to the airstrip two days later for our light aircraft transfer back to Maun airport, wow what amazing scenery from the air.
All in all game viewing was not that great although I did see the BIG 5 and a cheetah and many more animals. The time of year was wrong as the long grass you cannot spot game so easily but still worthwhile as you can see by my added pictures.
Truly an amazing experience by far if you have never considered wild camping in Botswana.
Best Botswana Safari Ever.
Tawana Camp
Nestled in the heart of Botswana's Okavango Delta, Tawana Camp is a sanctuary of untamed beauty and refined luxury. Surrounded by pristine wilderness and teeming with diverse wildlife, this exclusive retreat offers an authentic safari experience like no other.
Every detail has been thoughtfully crafted to ensure an experience of unparalleled comfort and style. Whether you're relaxing in the beautifully appointed spaces or enjoying the attentive care of the exceptional staff, Tawana Camp delivers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Africa's natural beauty.
Kanana Camp
Kanana Camp is a true hidden gem, perfectly nestled in the southwest of the Okavango Delta along the serene banks of the Xudum River, just outside Botswana's renowned Moremi Game Reserve. Without question, this destination is one of the most idyllic escapes for families and couples alike.
Whether you're exploring the waterways by mokoro or enjoying a sundowner around a crackling fire, every moment at Kanana is curated to create unforgettable memories.
Little Machaba Camp
Little Machaba Camp is a private and intimate safari camp located in the Khwai Concession of Botswana within sight of the famed Khwai River floodplains.
Little Machaba offers classic safari-style tented suites to a maximum of 8 guests at any time, providing visitors with an authentic and romantic experience.
Guests can enjoy game viewing and birding from the safari lodge while immersing themselves in the wildlife-rich surroundings.
Experience night game drives and dinner under the African stars for an unforgettable safari getaway in a safari region just north of the Moremi Game Reserve.
Kings Pool Camp
Kings Pool Camp in the Linyanti Wildlife Reserve offers up nine of the most luxurious safari suites in the whole of Botswana; overlooking Kings Pool Lagoon, each suite has its own private plunge pool and a sala.
Kings Pool Camp is one of the best Linyanti bush camp options; yes, expensive, but oh so worth it in every way possible.
Stanleys Camp
Stanley’s Camp is an intimate safari retreat featuring just 8 exquisitely designed luxury tents, each radiating a classic charm that perfectly complements the surrounding wilderness. Set within an exclusive 260,000-acre concession, this camp offers a front-row seat to some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife.
The wildlife sightings here are truly exceptional and include everything from giraffes and hippos to the elusive wild dogs, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.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.
Okavango Spirit Houseboat
Okavango Spirit Houseboat is an unforgettable safari experience located on the pristine Okavango River in the Panhandle region of Northern Botswana.
This safari houseboat features seven luxurious en-suite cabins with private decks and glass doors for maximum privacy and incredible views of the wildlife, including pods of hippos and crocs from dusk till dawn.
Enjoy a relaxing stay or explore the stunning surroundings with game viewing on boats or walking excursions - Okavango Spirit Houseboat will make your African adventure even more special!
Chobe Elephant Camp
Chobe Elephant Camp offers breathtaking views overlooking the iconic Chobe River and its surrounding floodplains, which are teeming with the diverse wildlife and birdlife that make the Chobe National Park so renowned.
Whether you're embarking on thrilling game drives, enjoying the tranquil sunsets, or indulging in the warm hospitality, Chobe Elephant Camp is the ideal destination for an unforgettable African safari in Botswana.