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.
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.