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.
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.
Chobe Marina Lodge
Chobe Marina Lodge with 60 rooms on offer is uniquely located right on the banks of the Chobe River bordering the National Park, a riverboat cruise and sunset tour into the park is undoubtedly a highlight of one's stay here.
This lodge is an excellent choice for safari enthusiasts, whether you're exploring the park's vast landscapes or relaxing by the river, Chobe Marina Lodge offers a memorable stay for those looking to experience the beauty of northern Botswana.
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.
Jack's Private Camp
Nestled within the vast expanse of Botswana's Makgadikgadi Pans, Jack's Private Camp offers a truly one-of-a-kind safari experience. This exclusive retreat seamlessly blends unparalleled luxury with the raw, untamed beauty of its surroundings.
Whether you're seeking thrilling adventures or tranquil moments amidst nature, Jack's Private Camp promises an unforgettable escape in one of Africa's most extraordinary landscapes.
San Camp
San Camp offers up seven luxurious khaki tented suites set in a private concession that adjoins the Makgadikgadi National Park, offering up spectacular and endless vistas of these magnificent pans.
San Camp is nestled within the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans in Botswana; this luxury camp offers guests unrivalled access to some of the most unique and wildlife-rich landscapes in Africa. From game drives to walks with bushmen trackers, San Camp provides an authentic and immersive safari experience that you will 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.
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.
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.