Monday 13 November 2017

Zambia: Taita Falcon Lodge | Таита Фалкон Лодж Замбия

#ТаитаФалконЛоджЗамбия #VictoriaFalls #Livingstone #BatokaGorge #Zimbabwe #UNIVisaZimbabwe #Kwacha #TaitaFalconLodge #Zambia

Taita Falcon Lodge
Taita Falcon Lodge Zambia
LOCATION
Taita Falcon Lodge is situated on the Zambian side of the Zambezi River, 11km by road from the Victoria Falls, 20km from Livingstone.  The Lodge is perched on the very edge of the Batoka Gorge above Rapids 16 and 17, offering a spectacular view of the raging waters 230m below.

Taita Falcon Lodge Zambia
ACCESS
Access to Taita Falcon Lodge is via Livingstone and Victoria Falls by road or air.  Scheduled and chartered airlines fly into Livingstone, including British Airways, South African Airways, Air Kenya (Via Nairobi to Cape Town), S.A Airlink from Nelspruit. 
A high clearance vehicle is recommended at all times. (The last 11km being a dirt road)
Taita Falcon Lodge provides collection and drop off transfers from either the airport, Day Activity Centre (Sun Hotels), bus or train stations or from Livingstone Town or Victoria Falls border post.  These transfers are included in the Package rates. Transfers can be arranged from Victoria Falls Airport and Botswana for an additional charge.  Taita Falcon Lodge also has a heli-pad.

Taita Falcon Lodge Zambia
VISAS
Some nationalities have to pay visas on entering Zambia. Please enquire if you need to know how much. Visas – (single and double entry) can be acquired on entry with Immigration as well as a Univisa with which you can travel freely between Zambia and Zimbabwe for 3 months or to Botswana for the day but we would suggest that, where possible, clients can get visas (or enquire in advance if not sure) from the Zambian Embassy/High Commission in their countries. Multiple entry visas must be applied for in advance.

Taita Falcon Lodge Zambia
HEALTH

We suggest that malaria prophylactics are taken at least one week prior to arrival and are continued for at least two weeks after their stay at the Lodge.  A basic medical kit should always be carried in Africa.  A doctor’s surgery is available in Livingstone and we are members of an immediate medi-vac scheme for all of our clients provided they have their own insurance.
Taita Falcon Lodge Zambia
THE ENVIRONMENT
The Lodge is situated in a natural bush environment with each chalet secluded amongst the native flora.  The gardens around the Lodge and chalets are a colourful blend of indigenous plants with paths weaving from the chalets to the pool, restaurant and bar areas.
Bird life is abundant around the Lodge grounds, with resident Vereaux (Black) Eagles, Peregrine Falcons, and the Taita Falcon from which the Lodge takes its name.  A variety of other raptors and smaller birds are familiar to the Lodge and are commonly sighted.

Taita Falcon Lodge Zambia
ACCOMMODATION
Each chalet is en-suite, with mosquito nets on all the beds.  The chalets are open plan and constructed of reed and stone with bathroom and hot shower and they all have their own private garden with cold showers in the garden. We use mosquito coils in the rooms during summer and hot water bottles in the beds during the colder months.
Of the 7 chalets, 2 can be made up to family rooms sleeping a maximum of 2 adults and 3 children (rooms are big and spacious).  The remaining 5 chalets can be made up as either double, twin or triple rooms.
We serve a sumptuous 3 course buffet meal in the evenings.  Light and dark meats are served each night and a selection of vegetables, salads and freshly baked bread.  The Lodge needs to be advised of any special dietary requirements prior to the clients’ arrival.

Taita Falcon Lodge Zambia
GENERAL INFORMATION
The atmosphere at Taita Falcon Lodge is casual and informal and normal safari resort clothing is both practical and acceptable.  During the summer months, cool clothing is essential, with long protective clothing for evenings.  From May to August, it can be quite cold in the evenings and early mornings, so warmer clothing is advised.
Hats, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, walking shoes and appropriate clothing and shoes for activities such as white water rafting, abseiling and horse riding should be brought along.  Binoculars are also advised.  For white water rafting, shoes which are suitable for rock climbing but which can get wet and can be strapped securely to the foot are essential.

Taita Falcon Lodge Zambia
ACTIVITIES
Taita Falcon Lodge offers hiking trails from 1.5 hours to 2-3 days in and around the Batoka Gorge.  These are guided walks, and for overnight camps, clients must bring their own camping equipment.
Game drives, cultural village tours and sunset cruises can be offered exclusively by Taita Falcon, and the various activities that the region has to offer are arranged by the Lodge.  These include white water rafting, elephant and horse-back safaris, scenic flights, canoeing to name but a few.  A full list of activities and current prices are available on request.

Taita Falcon Lodge Zambia
PHOTOGRAPHY
The Victoria Falls area is a photographer’s paradise, particularly along the Zambezi where one can capture wildlife scenes against a landscape of water and African vistas.  A telephoto lens of 100-300mm is advised for both game and bird life and ultra violet filters should be considered.  For early morning and late afternoon game drives, high speed film is recommended. 35mm film can be developed and memory sticks downloaded in Livingstone.

Taita Falcon Lodge Zambia
CLIENTS’ PAYMENTS
Clients will need to pay for additional activities and extras directly at the Lodge.  Taita Falcon Lodge accepts cash payment in US Dollars, Sterling, Euro, Rand and our local currency, Kwacha. Kwacha can be obtained from cash machines locally.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- Visa
Some nationalities have to pay visas on entering Zambia. Please enquire if you need to know how much. Visa (single and double entry or Univisa (The Univisa can be aquired on entry to Zambia or Zimbabwe which gives you free movement between Zambia and Zimbabwe for 3 months and between Zambia and Botswana for a day visit to Botswana -this might change anytime -please check with us before you arrive)) can be acquired on entry with Immigration but we would suggest that if not sure clients must get visas in advance (or enquire where necessary) from the Zambian Embassy/High Commission in their countries. Multiple entry visas must be applied for in advance.
- Zimbabwe visits
Please also note that visits to Zimbabwe and to the Victoria Falls on the Zimbabwean side, are possible.  Most nationalities however require a visa, which can be purchased at the border but most countries can now get a Univisa  - this visa can be acquired on entry to Zambia or Zimbabwe which gives you free movement between Zambia and Zimbabwe for 3 months and between Zambia and Botswana for a day visit to Botswana -this might change anytime -please check with us before you arrive.
Alternatively, if clients are arriving at Victoria Falls Airport, we can combine a Zimbabwe visit with either the arrival or return transfer.
HELICOPTER TRANSFERS ARE AVAILABLE TO THE LODGE VIA A SCENIC FLIGHT OVER THE VICTORIA FALLS AND GORGES.  PRICES DEPENDING ON NUMBER OF PAX - PLEASE REQUEST CURRENT PRICES.
WE CAN MAKE ARRANGEMENTS FOR OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES IN THE REGION.

Check in/out times: Check in time is usually from 14h00 and check out time is by 11h00. These can be flexible, please contact the lodge if you require different timings and we shall do our best to accommodate you if possible.
YouTube channel: Exploring Namibia
Purchase photo/4K video: portfolio
Aerial photo/video service & other inquiries contact: info@traveltonamibia.com

Namibia: Khaudum Camp

#KhaudumCamp #KhaudumNationalPark #SikeretiCamp
 
Khaudum Camp

If you looking at exploring Khaudum National Park than you will be happy to know that the campsites at Khaudum in the north have been renovated. The park offers diverse, spectacular landscape and wildlife, an excellent place where guests can expect to spot a roan antelope and wild dogs.
There are now 6 sites situated under camelthorn trees, overlooking the omuramba. Each site has a braai area, wooden structured private ablutions and a shading seating area.
Khaudum National Park is a 4x4 only destination. The Park must be entered by at least two 4 X 4 off road vehicles per party Comment: Due to the difficulty of the roads and no facilities such as petrol stations or vehicle repair in or near the park it is required to enter the park with two 4x4 vehicles to ensure that support in case of getting stuck or vehicle problems is at hand


Road directions to and from


To enter the Khaudum Game Park from the south (Sikereti Camp) Tsumkwe
From Tsumkwe to Sikereti is approx. 50 km
From Tsumkwe drive north on the D3315 and D3303 to Sikereti To enter the Khaudum Game Park from the north (Khaudum Camp) Popa Falls

From Popa Falls to Khaudum Camp is approx. 141 km
From Popa Falls take the C48 north to the B8 turn off (approx. 6 km)
Turn left into the B8 and drive to the Khaudum turn off (approx. 80 km)
Turn right into the deep sandy road and follow it to the Khaudum Camp (approx. 55 km)
The C48 is gravel, the B8 is tar road and the road to Khaudum Camp is extremely deep sand
Note: Although it is only 55km from the B8 turn off to Khaudum Camp, this section of road is extremely sandy and travellers should plan for a trip of about 4 hours to cover these 55 km.
Airstrip There is no airstrip in the Khaudum Game Park.

The closest airstrip in the south of the park is the Tsumkwe Airstrip
The closest airstrip in the north of the park is the Bagani Airstrip
Bagani Airstrip (FYBG) South: 18 degrees 07’ 06” East: 21 degrees 37’ 47" Elevation: 3,000 feet Length: 900 meter Width: 25 meter Surface: Gravel Direction: 08/26 Weather & seasons Rains fall in the Khaudum between December and March. During this time the park roads become extremely muddy, and driving becomes extremely difficult. During winter (May to September), the park is extremely cold with average night temperatures at approximately 7 degrees Celsius. During summer, the temperature is extremely hot with temperatures rising to 40 degrees Celsius
YouTube channel: Exploring Namibia
Purchase photo/4K video: portfolio
Aerial photo/video service & other inquiries contact: info@traveltonamibia.com

Namibia: Oranjemund is opened to public

A diamond-mining town in Namibia that previously restricted visitors has opened to the public in hopes of boosting tourism and diversifying its economy.

The remote town of Oranjemund, which lies in a diamond-mining area called the Sperrgebiet, or "prohibited area" in German, held celebrations this month to declare an end to its isolation from the rest of the country.

The Namibia Press Agency said a new road has opened between the Namibian town of Rosh Pinah and Oranjemund, ending a decades-long system whereby travelers had to get security clearance before entering the Sperrgebiet.

Namdeb, a joint venture between Namibia and the De Beers company, operates in the Oranjemund area. Diamond-mining on land is expected to wind down in coming years, while more focus is being placed on offshore mining operations.

Sunday 5 November 2017

Namibia: The Elegant Desert Eco Camp | Элегант Дезерт Эко Кемп Намибия

#ElegantDesertEcoCamp #Namibia #Sesriem #Sossusvlei #ElegantDesertLodge

The Elegant Desert Eco Camp 

The Elegant Desert Eco Camp is ready for occupancy from 01 October 2017.
°    The Camp has 10 tented units and accommodates up to 20 guests.
°    Each unit will be equipped with a king size extra length bed, an on suite bathroom and outside shower, with hot and cold water.
°    24 hour power by means of solar panels with 2 power outlets to recharge electronics.
°    A coffee/tea station with a  portable Mini Bar
°    A central pool area with a deck and a flood lit waterhole.
°    All meals will be served at the Main Lodge (The Elegant Desert Lodge).
°    Check-in will be done at the Main Lodge (The Elegant Desert Lodge)
°    Parking and 24 hour porter service will be available.

YouTube channel: Exploring Namibia
Purchase photo/4K video: portfolio
Aerial photo/video service & other inquiries contact: info@traveltonamibia.com

Botswana: Dinaka Camp opening in March 2018 | Динака Кемп Ботсвана

#ДинакаКемпБотсвана #DinakaCamp #Ker&Downey #Botswana #CentralKalahariGameReserve

New camp Dinaka opening in March 2018

Ker & Downey Botswana successfully acquires a new camp for the 2018 season.

An exclusive private reserve hugging the northern edge of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, Dinaka is host to one of the most unique biodiversities in Southern Africa. This ever-changing desert landscape gives refuge to the Kalahari lion, springbok, Oryx and brown hyena. The camp provides the perfect start or finish to any discerning travellers Botswana safari.

Situated alongside the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, the focus of activities at Dinaka is exploring the Kalahari experience with wildlife ranging from giraffe to the antelope, small mammals like the honey badger, bat eared fox and porcupine to predators including the Kalahari lion, cheetah, leopard and brown hyena. Activities include morning and afternoon game drives in open safari vehicles, with afternoon game drives often continuing into the evening. Our window seat guarantee ensures no more than four guests per vehicle when out on game drives. Alternatively, you may get more up close and personal with nature along with an insight into the San Bushmen culture with guided bush walks. Birding is particularly spectacular as Dinaka hosts over 200 different bird species including the Kori Bustard and Crimson Breasted Shrike and a high concentration of Pale Chanting Goshawks.

For those a little more adventurous spend the night beneath the vast Kalahari sky at the Dinaka Sleep Out Deck.

Dinaka, meaning “horns”, is a private reserve located on the northern boundary of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. Year-round water holes result in spectacular photographic opportunities either from the vehicle, on foot or one of several hides and underground bunker. The perfect contrast to a stay in the Okavango Delta, with an added hidden treasure!

YouTube channel: Exploring Namibia
Purchase photo/4K video: portfolio
Aerial photo/video service & other inquiries contact: info@traveltonamibia.com

Botswana: new Kalahari Okavango serviced safari 2018 | Окаванго Калахари сафари 2018

#KalahariOkavango #HainaSafariLodge #Botswana #San #CentralKalahariGameReserve #MakgadikgadiNationalPark #MoremiGameReserve #OkavangoDelta #ChiefsIsland #ОкавангоКалахарисафари2018

Our New Kalahari Okavango Serviced Safari 2018
 

17-27 Jan / 1-11 Feb / 2-12 Mar 2018
Maun to Maun
US$ 4125 per person sharing  with maximum 7 guests per departure
1 Night Haina Safari Lodge a great first night in Botswana. An evening presentation on Conservation, Nights Skies & the San People of the Kalahari by expert Mr Paul Sheller
3 Nights serviced camping in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve
2 Nights serviced camping in the Makgadikgadi National Park in search of the Makgadikgadi Pans zebra migration
1 Night Camp Kalahari with a visit to a habituated meerkat colony
3 Nights Moremi Game Reserve with an optional scenic flight over the Okavango Delta and Chiefs Island

YouTube channel: Exploring Namibia
Purchase photo/4K video: portfolio
Aerial photo/video service & other inquiries contact: info@traveltonamibia.com

Thursday 2 November 2017

Namibia flooding: heavy rains poured at Long Beach near Walvis Bay | Наводнение Намибия

#FloodsNamibia #HeavyRainsAfrica #Namibia #LongBeachNamibia #Swakopmund #WalvisBay #НаводнениеНамибия

A heavy rains caused floods at Long Beach located between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay