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.
&Beyond Chobe Under Canvas
&Beyond Chobe Under Canvas offers an extraordinary safari experience in Botswana's iconic Chobe National Park. Set in Africa's stunning wilderness, this mobile camp provides a rare, intimate way to explore one of the continent's richest wildlife areas.
The camp offers exceptional service and simple elegance, letting guests enjoy nature without sacrificing comfort. With its close wildlife encounters, attention to detail, and unforgettable experiences, Chobe Under Canvas is one of the most captivating ways to experience Africa's wilderness.
Wilderness Mokete
Nestled in the breathtaking Mababe Depression, Botswana, Wilderness Mokete offers an unparalleled safari experience. This intimate lodge provides luxurious comfort amidst wild adventure, serving as a gateway to one of Africa's most ecologically rich regions. Expansive grasslands and seasonal floodplains attract extraordinary wildlife, making every moment truly captivating.
Guests at Mokete can expect days filled with thrilling game drives, guided by expert rangers dedicated to showcasing the beauty and diversity of this remarkable area. Evenings are reserved for relaxation in stylish, eco-friendly accommodations, enveloped by the sights and sounds of the African wilderness.
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!
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.
Mbamba Camp
A stay at Mbamba in the Okavango Delta region of Botswana is, without question, a journey into one of Africa’s most captivating wilderness areas. Here, you’ll find yourself surrounded by the pristine waterways, lush floodplains, and dramatic sunsets that have made the Delta world-renowned.
Mbamba marries authentic safari adventure with a level of comfort and attention to detail that elevates every moment—from the sight of elephants moving silently at dawn to the gentle warmth of sundowners by the fire.
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.
Little Mombo Camp
Little Mombo Camp and the Moremi offers abundant big game viewing, arguably the best in Botswana.
Situated within the Moremi Game Reserve at the northern tip of Chief's Island under large shady trees with the birdlife and wildlife of the reserve surrounding on all sides.
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!