MONTHLY DESERT & DELTA SAFARIS UPDATE
November 2021
It was so exciting to spend the last 3-months with bumper guest numbers throughout the properties. If you are still waiting for travel restrictions to ease from your country, we can’t wait to have you here!
Guests have the pleasure of feeling carefree and connected with nature while at the same time extremely comfortable with our COVID safety measures. We are excited to announce that nearly 100% of our camp staff are fully vaccinated, ensuring their safety while working in our camps and peace of mind for our travellers. Owing to the remote locations of our lodges, the distribution of vaccines has been a challenge. Still, we are proud of the work we have done in supporting the government to speed up vaccine distribution into the remote locations of Botswana.
We’re also celebrating the addition of Nxamaseri Island Lodge to our portfolio. Below you will find more information on Nxamaseri Island Lodge and what this unique property has to offer.
WATER LEVEL UPDATES
THE OKAVANGO DELTA
Levels are low but normal for this time of year thanks to good 2020/21 rains
At this time of the year, it is normal for the Okavango to be approaching its lowest level. The water volume from the catchment areas in Angola that travelled down the Kavango River was lower than average. However, good rains in the last summer season have helped maintain a decent water level throughout our Okavango based properties.
It is too early to tell what we are in store for in terms of water levels for the coming months but metrological sources are forecasting a good rainy season which is positive.
Remember – all Desert & Delta Safaris camps & lodges based in the Okavango offer all-year-round water activities.
THE LIONS OF SAVUTE
UPDATES ON THE FORMIDABLE MARSH PRIDE & NORTHERN PRIDE
The Savute Marsh Pride continues to grow in numbers, now consisting of more than 30 members. Their sheer size has enabled them to continue their domination of the Savute region. As our guest numbers increase, regular sightings of the pride have been a highlight for travellers staying at Savute Safari Lodge. The Savute Marsh has dried up through the winter months forcing the wildlife to congregate at water points like Marabu Pan and Rhino Vlei. This is where the pride wait patiently for their next meal.
With the Marsh Prides dominance around the Savute Marsh, the Northern Pride have moved onto the fringes, but the guides are still reporting regular sightings of the pride, sometimes at the waterhole right in front of the lodge. The young males in the pride continue to grow in stature, so we are eagerly watching to see where the subsequent conflict between the two prides will occur.
THE CHOBE RIVER AND ELEPHANT UPDATE
WATER LEVEL UPDATES AND ELEPHANT MOVEMENTS IN THE CHOBE REGION
The Chobe River saw good levels of water push in from the Zambezi River earlier this year. Currently, the river is home to vast numbers of wildlife, including Sable, Giraffe, and other plains wildlife congregating around the nearby floodplains. A sight to behold from the comfort of one of our solar-powered safari boats.
September & October, in particular, has been epic for elephant herds along the Chobe River. Guides at both Chobe Game Lodge and Chobe Savanna Lodge have seen more than 800+ elephants on an afternoon safari cruise.
THE BOTETI RIVER & THE ZEBRA MIGRATION
WATER LEVEL UPDATES AND ZEBRA MOVEMENT ON THE BOTETI RIVER
The floods down the Boteti River were significant this season. While the water levels are currently dropping, the excellent rains earlier in the year and the strong flow from the Okavango Delta ensured plenty of water in the river for a spectacular zebra migration.
Between mid-April and mid-October, our guides reported remarkable zebra sightings from the boat as well as on daily game drives. At the end of the season, water levels dropped steadily, creating a spectacle in front of the lodge where the zebra congregated at the remaining water.
Due to the falling water levels, boating activities are not possible for the foreseeable future. The region has received its first rains, and with the above predictions of high rainfall through the coming season, we wait to see the impact on the Boteti River.
Meanwhile on the Salt Pans
Our salt pans sleep-out trips have been a huge hit.
“Best experience in my life”
“Absolutely unbelievable”
“The most amazing thing we’ve ever done”
A few of the comments and feedback from recent guests.
The first signs of rain are already appearing so unfortunately the season is just about closed but those still planning 2022 safaris must consider 3-nights at Leroo La Tau between 15 July – 31 October and include a complimentary sleep-out under the stars.
SIGHTING OF THE MONTH
FEATURING TSODILO HILLS at NXAMASERI ISLAND LODGE
We are just so excited about the addition of Nxamaseri Island Lodge to our group. Our most recent trip included an in-depth exploration of the Tsodilo Hills cultural experience and a hike to the top of Botswana (the Male hill). This month we have gone with two photos for sighting of the month. The first shows off the unique location of Nxamaseri Island Lodge at sunset with the Tsodilo Hills in the background. The second was captured on arrival at the Tsodilo Hills in the early morning as we prepared to explore the cultural heritage site.
A visit to Nxamaseri will allow you to explore the Tsodilo Hills, home to an impressive collection of ancient rock art and incredible history. Something quite unique to Botswana and well worth a visit on any itinerary to the country!
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