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.
Vumbura Plains Camp
Vumbura Plains Camp, featuring 14 luxurious safari tents, is perfectly situated within the breathtaking Vumbura Plains Reserve. Spanning an impressive 130,000 acres of pristine wildlife terrain, this exclusive destination offers an intimate safari experience for a fortunate few.
Guests can immerse themselves in nature through exciting game drives or serene water-based safaris, enjoying the chance to spot a variety of wildlife and stunning landscapes in one of Africa's most remarkable wilderness areas.
Okavango Explorers Camp
Set in Botswana's wilderness, Okavango Explorers Camp brings the spirit of 1920s safari exploration to life. Located in the Okavango Delta, this exclusive camp offers a blend of adventure, tranquillity, and intimacy.
Whether you're seeking thrilling wildlife encounters or peaceful moments in nature, the camp provides an authentic connection to Africa's extraordinary landscapes.
Sable Alley
Sable Alley is an exclusive safari camp in Botswana's Khwai Area, offering world-class wildlife and birdlife viewing opportunities.
Guests can take advantage of day and evening game drives, as well as dugout canoe and game walk safaris.
Sable Alley has 12 luxurious tented suites and rooms, including a honeymoon suite for couples looking for a romantic getaway, and all rooms feature en-suite bathrooms with both indoor and outdoor shower options.
For those wanting to immerse themselves in nature truly, guided game walks along the banks of the Khwai River offer an unforgettable Botswana safari experience.
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.
Xigera Safari Lodge
Xigera Safari Lodge, with twelve luxury safari suites in this wildlife reserve like no other, offers activities including walking safaris, Moremi mokoro trips, game drives and powerboat outings in total and utter privacy.
Xigera in the Moremi Game Reserve offers visitors the absolute in luxury, service and game viewing activities, one of the best in Botswana's Okavango Delta.
Camp Linyanti
Camp Linyanti is purely for those with a passion for experiencing the wilds of Africa; this is a camp that is more about the quality of guiding, wildlife and birdlife over luxury accommodation.
Camp Linyanti offers up exceptional game drives and wildlife safaris.
Selinda Suite
The Selinda Suite is a haven of exclusivity and elegance in Botswana's Selinda Reserve. Perfect for those seeking privacy, this luxurious two-bedroom retreat offers a truly personalised experience.
With a spacious layout, refined decor, and dedicated staff—including a private guide, vehicle, chef, and butler—your stay is tailored for comfort and convenience at every step.
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.