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.
North Island Okavango
North Island Okavango, an exclusive safari camp situated in the heart of Botswana's Okavango waterways, offers guests a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore one of Africa's most iconic wildlife hotspots.
With only three luxurious and spacious safari suites available, North Island offers a truly unique and intimate safari experience. With access to a variety of habitats and activities, including game drives, walking safaris, boating excursions, mokoro adventures and scenic helicopter flights.
Nxamaseri Island Lodge
Located in Botswana's Okavango Delta Panhandle, Nxamaseri Island Lodge offers a unique African safari experience. Guests can relax in one of eight Safari Chalets, built with traditional materials and furnished with locally made pieces that showcase the region's culture.
Nxamaseri Island Lodge is the ultimate retreat for those seeking an extraordinary Botswana safari and a truly memorable African adventure.Nestled in the tranquil Panhandle region of Botswana's Okavango Delta, Nxamaseri Island Lodge offers an exceptional African safari experience.
Duke's East Camp
Tucked in Botswana's Okavango Delta, Duke's East Camp offers an authentic safari experience. Combining luxury with a close connection to nature, this retreat perfectly balances comfort and adventure.
At Duke's East, every detail is thoughtfully designed to immerse guests in the magic of the Delta, from the warm, welcoming atmosphere to the carefully curated decor that reflects the region's rich culture and history. It's a place where every moment feels special, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
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.
Ngoma Safari Lodge
Ngoma provides an exclusive luxury safari lodge experience situated on the western edge of Botswana’s iconic Chobe National Park. This intimate retreat features just eight elegantly designed suites, each offering a private plunge pool and breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness.
Guests can enjoy personalized service, gourmet dining, and guided activities such as game drives and boat safaris, immersing themselves in the beauty of the Chobe River ecosystem.
Eagle Island Lodge
There's a reason why Belmond Eagle Island Lodge has been called the "most beautiful lodge in the world."
From its prime location on a private island in the heart of Botswana's pristine wetlands to its luxurious accommodations and attentive service, Belmond Eagle Island is simply unforgettable.
Whether you're canoeing through the papyrus-lined channels of the Delta or watching elephants roam from your own private plunge pool, a stay at Eagle Island Lodge is an experience you'll never forget.
Kwetsani Camp
Kwetsani offers just five spacious, tree-house thatch chalets, each designed to blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings. These elevated chalets provide breathtaking views of a vast Okavango floodplain, which is home to an array of wildlife, including herds of Lechwe and Wildebeest.
The area is also a paradise for bird enthusiasts, boasting some of the most remarkable birdlife in Botswana. Whether you’re seeking tranquility or adventure, Kwetsani offers an intimate and unforgettable safari experience in the heart of the Okavango Delta.
Meno a Kwena
A hidden gem of a camp perched on a rocky clifftop above the Boteti River and overlooking the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park. If you're looking for an amazing safari experience that is off the beaten path, Meno a Kwena should be at the top of your list.
Whether you're a fan of wildlife viewing or just want to relax and take in the amazing night stars, Meno a Kwena Camp is definitely worth considering for your next safari in Botswana.