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.
Dinaka Camp
Dinaka Camp is located just north of the famed Central Kalahari Game Reserve in its own 200km² private game reserve. Dinaka Camp, surrounded by the beautiful Kalahari Desert landscape and home to some of the best wildlife in southern Africa, Dinaka Camp is a safari lover's paradise.
With game drives and guided bush walks available, as well as several photographic hides and platforms, you are sure to see some amazing desert wildlife during your stay. And don't forget the swimming pool - perfect for cooling off after a hot day in the desert sun!
Pangolin Chobe Hotel
The Pangolin Chobe Hotel is close to the Chobe on a site that commands stunning views out onto the Chobe floodplains and importantly quick access to the National Park and a 3-minute drive to the airport.
With its intimate and stylish design, it offers a tranquil retreat while keeping you close to the area's best attractions, allowing you to experience the beauty and excitement of Chobe without compromising on comfort or convenience.
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.Chobe Game Lodge
Chobe Game Lodge has 47 Suites facing the Chobe River while offering up the greatest concentration of Elephants in Africa part and parcel of your stay, the only permanent game lodge situated within the Park.
Whether you're watching elephants gather by the riverbank or catching a glimpse of a lion on the prowl, Chobe Game Lodge offers an unparalleled journey into the heart of Africa's wild beauty.
Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp
Perched on the edge of the breathtaking Okavango Delta, within an exclusive 8,000-hectare private concession bordering the renowned Moremi Wildlife Reserve, &Beyond Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp offers an unparalleled safari experience.
For those who demand nothing but the best, &Beyond Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp is a haven of luxury, adventure, and world-class service. It's an experience so thoughtfully crafted that it leaves one longing to return even before they have left.
Shinde Camp
Shinde Camp is one of the most enchanting safari destinations in the Okavango Delta. Nestled on a lush, palm-studded island in the heart of this pristine wilderness, it offers an exclusive and intimate experience.
Shinde consists of 8 beautifully appointed twin-bedded safari tents, each thoughtfully designed to blend traditional charm with modern comfort. Surrounded by breathtaking views and teeming with wildlife and birdlife, this is a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Duke's Camp
Duke's Camp is a luxurious safari lodge located in the heart of Botswana's Okavango Delta, providing guests with an ultimate African experience. This exclusive camp is named after Sarefo 'Duke' Sarefo and consists of eight lavish safari suites set among raised wooden decks beneath a canopy of ebony and leadwood trees.
Expert safari guides will take you on exciting game drives and mokoro cruises through the Okavango Delta to uncover its hidden secrets and explore its abundant wildlife.
Machaba Camp
Machaba Camp is a classic safari camp in the Khwai Private Reserve, just north of Botswana's famous Moremi Game Reserve. Spanning 35,000 hectares of pristine wildlife habitat, Machaba offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Guests can enjoy game drives, mokoro adventures on the Khwai River, and walking safaris to spot Africa's iconic wildlife, including lions, leopards, wild dogs, cheetahs, buffalo, and elephants. Wildlife and birdlife can also be viewed without leaving the camp.