Showing posts with label Kasane. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Kasane. Show all posts

Thursday, 29 August 2024

Botswana 2024 general updates

Botswana 2024 general updates

Botswana Weather

During the cold fronts that came through recently, we had guests who were seemingly unaware of the potential severity of how cold it can get on safari – and not just in Botswana*. Some guests arrived with very light jackets and no alternative attire, meaning they had to purchase items from the curio shops in camp. This can sometimes prove difficult when it comes to availability and sizes.

• We recommended that guests pack allowing for layers for all activities. In winter a warm layer is essential for the early mornings and evenings. Long-sleeved shirts with roll-up tabs, and zip-off trousers allow one to adapt to local weather conditions as temperatures rise (breathable items are recommended as these can adapt to changing temperatures throughout the day/night). Dressing for ease and comfort is key. Please refer to our suggested packing list to ensure guests carry appropriate clothing.

* In Central and East Africa, the temperature variation is generally less marked in the summer months when it can be quite hot and/or humid; the winters usually do not become as cold. Requirements for a visit to Rwanda are very specific so please contact your Travel Designer for further details.

Mokete Direct Helicopter Transfers

As of 11 June 2024, in order to provide a more seamless experience for our guests, please note the change in operational logistics: all Wilderness Mokete arrivals and departures are flown directly by helicopter transfer with Helicopter Horizons.

• Applicable routes include from Maun International Airport as well as certain Wilderness and third-party camps within the Delta and Linyanti.

• All above transfers are direct with no stops en-route.

• The estimated flight duration is 40 minutes from Maun International Airport to Mokete, and provides an exceptional aerial safari, adding a unique touch to the overall Wilderness Mokete experience.

• The no-stops exception is to/from Kasane Airport, from where there will be a number of stops en-route with Wilderness Air Botswana per fixed wing to Santawani Airstrip. From Santawani Airstrip, the onward helicopter transfer to Wilderness Mokete is direct with no stops along the way.

• The vehicle transfer from Mokete Helicopter pad to camp is approximately four minutes.

Water Level — Update

Based on the information provided by Botswana Operations on 18 July, here is a summary of the water activities available:

• Qorokwe - Mokoro activities on offer

• Vumbura and Little Vumbura — Boating and mokoro activities 

• DumaTau and Little DumaTau — Boating and barge activities 

• King’s Pool — Barge activity is currently not operational

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Sunday, 10 December 2023

Botswana: Chobe Game Lodge - Celebrating 50 years in tourism

Celebrating 50 years in tourism in Botswana, Chobe Game Lodge.

Chobe National Park, Botswana – In a celebration of fifty years of pioneering excellence, Chobe Game Lodge, the iconic property in the heart of Chobe National Park, unveils its brand-new website. The new website highlights the beauty of the lodge and its’ unparalleled location, which enables diverse activities to explore the park (by water and land in silent, environmentally responsible electric craft), thus ensuring unforgettable safari experiences and connection with nature.

An Iconic Beginning and Unique Legacy

Strategically placed overlooking the Chobe River five decades ago, Chobe Game Lodge is a one of its kind within the Chobe National Park. This secluded location amidst the wildlife continues to offer an unrivalled perspective for guests on the beauty and wonders of the area. Later, as the first five-star safari lodge in Botswana, it marked the dawn of the luxury ecotourism era in the country.

Part of Chobe Game Lodge’s legacy is the story of Hollywood legends Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, who found not only solace but also love amidst the serene beauty of the lodge. Their love story culminated in a historic wedding ceremony at the lodge in 1975.

In 1992, Chobe Game Lodge merged with Desert & Delta Safaris to form the subsidiary Chobe Holdings Limited (Chobe). By 1999, Chobe were the first and now remain the only ecotourism company to be listed on the Botswana Stock Exchange, thus ensuring broad based citizen ownership and all revenues received in Botswana.

Over the years Chobe Game Lodge has undergone regular rebuilds, additions and refurbishments, including an extensive raised walkway with viewing platforms, aptly named the “Chobe Deck of Fame” for its commanding views of the Chobe River and its game rich floodplains.

Evolution into Leading the Way in Sustainable Tourism

Our unwavering commitment to the environment has evolved over the years, propelling us to the forefront of responsible tourism. The lodge’s dedication to minimizing its ecological footprint led to the introduction of the first solar-powered electric safari boats in Africa. This ground-breaking initiative not only reduced the impact on the delicate ecosystem and transformed the famous Chobe River safari into a smooth, silent experience but also set a new standard for environmentally conscious tourism practices.

The lodge also introduced several electric game-drive vehicles in 2014 while supplementing the property’s power supply with a vast solar plant in 2018. Amidst several other recycling and eco-initiatives we are committed to pioneering responsible tourism with the smallest footprint possible.

Empowerment and Trailblazing

Chobe Game Lodge’s legacy extends beyond our commitment to sustainability; we have also been a trailblazer in empowering women within the tourism industry. In 2004, the lodge hired the first female safari guides in Botswana, which later culminated in the formation of the continent’s first all-female guiding team, aptly named the ‘Chobe Angels’. This initiative opened new doors for women in a traditionally male-dominated field and fosters our  workplace diversity and inclusivity ethos.

Andrew Flatt, Marketing Director of Chobe Game Lodge, expressed his enthusiasm about the lodge’s 50-year celebration and the launch of the new website, saying, “It’s not easy to encapsulate such a wonderful property and rich history in a website, however the last fifty years have been a remarkable journey of guest excellence, innovation, and people empowerment. Our new website represents not just our history but our vision for the future. Featuring refreshed imagery, the website is designed to provide our guests with an immersive and interactive experience. We want our future travellers to appreciate our unique location inside Chobe National Park, thus ensuring outstanding wildlife experiences and to get a feel for how beautiful our lodge is and the friendly staff that await them.”

A Glorious Present and a Bright Future

Managing Director Jonathan Gibson, who rebuilt the lodge in 1983, spoke about the significance of this milestone, stating, “Chobe Game Lodge’s 50-year anniversary is a testament to the enduring spirit of our team and our unwavering commitment to putting Botswana and the Chobe region high up on travellers’ wish list. As we look back on our history, we also look forward to a future where responsible tourism remains at the forefront of our efforts. This milestone signifies not just our past achievements but also the boundless potential of what we can accomplish in the years to come.”

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Monday, 4 December 2023

South Africa: AirVentures Hot Air Ballooning

AirVentures Hot Air Ballooning

Three new balloons added to our fleet

AirVentures Hot Air Ballooning has added three new hot air balloons to it's fleet, all of which feature the latest technology enhancing the safety of the balloon ride experience. The balloons are all manufactured by Cameron Balloons in the United Kingdom. Cameron Balloons is the largest manufacturer of passenger-carrying balloons in the world and has held this achievement for several decades. With full approval and type certification by the South African Civil Aviation Authority, Cameron Balloons has been the choice of manufacturer for AirVentures since it's inception.

The additional hot air balloons bolster the flight offering of AirVentures, providing a comprehensive range of carrying capacities suitable for large groups, families, friends, and couples. We believe our diverse modern fleet, combined with an exceptional flight experience over the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site, positions us well to be your primary choice of balloon operator.

2024 RATES

CLASSIC FLIGHT

The Classic Flight takes you through the heart of the Cradle of Humankind, offering an exclusive perspective as our balloons gracefully navigate through the Swartkops Mountain gorge. Drift along the Crocodile River, immersing yourself in the beauty of the natural surroundings, all while being enchanted by the mesmerizing spectacle of a sunrise casting its warm rays across the countryside.

Price per person

Group rates: from  of 6 or more: R 2 900 per person.

SAFARI FLIGHT

Our Safari Flight is a one-of-a-kind adventure that provides guests with a unique and awe-inspiring perspective on the natural wonders of the Cradle of Humankind. Glide serenely above vast plains and witness a wide variety of wildlife below. From graceful giraffes to powerful rhinos, our hot air balloon offers an unparalleled vantage point to appreciate the rich biodiversity of the region.

Price per person

Group rates: from  of 6 or more: R 3 070 per person.     

Our African Identity

Our primary balloon fleet was designed as a tribute to an African sunrise, with the warmth of the colour spectrum reflected in the use of reds, oranges and yellow. The intricate pattern used for the balloon "envelope" incorporates the geometric design of tribal artwork, and our baskets are woven in the traditional manner.

Khaki uniforms for ground crew and pilots, continue our safari theme, and our towing vehicles are well suited to traverse the African bush terrain. From our website, to our logo, from our flight confirmations, to our certificates, we focus on the detail that ensures we provide an experience that encompasses all that is great about Africa.

Beautiful Flying Areas

Cradle of Humankind (World Heritage Site): 

We are the only balloon operator to launch our balloons centrally within the Cradle of Humankind, and to offer a full flight experience within the 53 000 hectare world heritage site. Proclaimed a world heritage site in 1998, this protected area is predominately made up of large private game reserves, it contains 13 fossil sites, and has over one third of all hominid fossil finds in the world. With minimal human impact, this area is a true wilderness gem to fly in.

Magaliesberg: 

Renowned for ballooning, this picturesque area boasts a range of mountains that are almost a 100 times older than Everest , and are literally thousands of millions of years old. An area of significant South African and geological history, its vastness and beauty can only really be appreciated from the air. Like the Cape vulture that soars in the thermals around these mountains, a hot air balloon ride is un-paralleled in its ability to provide silent, 360 degree visibility.

Okavango Delta (World Heritage Site) - Botswana: 

AirVentures is the sole licensed provider of hot air balloon safaris over the Okavango Delta, operating over the remote North Western region. We provide the opportunity for you to experience the epitome of a balloon safari, drifting over one of Africa's great wilderness destinations. A unique landscape flooded with water interspersed with winding channels, dotted with islands and surprisingly large expanses of woodland forests. This age old adventure explores the Okavango Delta in a completely unique way, offering a 360 degree panoramic view from tree top level to a thousand feet in the air.

Okavango Balloon Safaris

Seloko Plains (Chobe Region) – Botswana

The Seloko Plains is a vast concession in the the Chobe Region. Situated 45 minutes south of the town, Kasane, the Seloko Plains are an important wildlife corridor, extending from Zimbabwe to join up with, the Chobe National Park, and the Kasane Forest Reserve. A diverse habitat with large tracts of forest which open up into wide open grassland plains, the area offers a variety of wildlife species to be viewed from the hot air balloon.

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Sunday, 12 March 2023

Botswana: Sun Destinations: Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge

Sun Destinations

Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge

We officially welcome Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge to the Sun Destinations portfolio. The lodge complements the rest of our accommodation options along the Trails of Botswana route, offering plenty of scope to explore the Chobe Region.

Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge overlooks a thriving waterhole in the remote Kasane Forest Reserve, a relatively unexplored concession bordering the Zambezi National Park in the northern stretches of Botswana. The closest safari tourist town is Kasane, which has an airport open to both domestic and international flights.

Boasting 20 bedrooms over two storeys that all face the waterhole, this secluded hideaway ensures every need is met in terms of accommodation. Fans, mosquito nets, safes, private balconies with seating, and butler’s trays in each room provide a much needed sense of comfort. 

In addition to the standard bedroom options, there are also 2 luxury Meru style tents on raised platforms that cater for guests requiring something a little bit more luxurious.

For those needing a respite from the African heat, you’ll be pleased to know that there is a swimming pool on-site, complete with a deck area with chairs and umbrellas. When you’re not soaking up the tranquility of the bushveld at the pool’s edge, you can spend time in the boma area where a crackling fire breaks the silence of the bushveld.

Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge overlooks a thriving waterhole in the remote Kasane Forest Reserve, a relatively unexplored concession bordering the Zambezi National Park in the northern stretches of Botswana. The closest safari tourist town is Kasane, which has an airport that is open to both domestic and international flights.

The lodge’s claim to fame is its prolific elephant herds, many of which can be spotted congregating around the lodge’s waterhole - it’s not uncommon to spend evenings dining with elephants. In addition to Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge’s enviable location, it is also fast becoming a sought-after safari destination for large groups seeking a lodge of superior quality with African inspired design.

Boasting 20 bedrooms that all face the waterhole (two levels), this secluded hideaway ensures every need is met in terms of accommodation. Fans, mosquito nets, safes, private balconies with seating, and butler’s trays in each room provide a much needed sense of comfort. In addition to the standard bedroom options, there are also 2 luxury Meru style tents on raised platforms that cater for guests requiring something a little bit more luxurious.

The main area of the lodge is joined to the rooms by a quaint wooden walkway that meanders its way from the rooms to an expansive reception area housing a curio shop, and a further viewing deck overlooking the waterhole. There is also a massage spa being built, which will offer another dimension to the already sublime safari experience.

The two dining areas each have a small bar area, and like the rest of the lodge, overlooks the bustling waterhole. Safari goers can expect to dine in splendour, while being introduced a fusion of flavours during meal times. Dining at Chobe Mopani is a protracted affair, and great care is taken with the dishes served. Hospitality here is top notch.

For those needing a respite from the African heat, you’ll be pleased to know that there is a swimming pool on-site, complete with a deck area with chairs and umbrellas. When you’re not soaking up the tranquility of the bushveld at the pool’s edge, spend time in the boma area where a crackling fire breaks the silence of the bushveld.

Included in your safari experience are two activities per day, which can include sundowner drives to the Kazuma Pan; a full day into the Chobe National Park for game drives and a boat cruise; cultural village tours; and day trips to Victoria Falls. These safaris open up a world of opportunity to view the high concentration of African wild dog, leopard, buffalo, elephant, lion, impalas, zebras, antelope, and plains game. Because the lodge is located between two parks - Chobe National Park and the Zambezi National Park - the game viewing is exceptional.

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Monday, 14 November 2022

Botswana: Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge joins Sun Destinations

CHOBE MOPANI FOREST LODGE

We officially welcome Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge to the Sun Destinations portfolio. The lodge complements the rest of our accommodation options along the Trails of Botswana route, offering plenty of scope to explore the Chobe region.

Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge overlooks a thriving waterhole in the remote Kasane Forest Reserve, a relatively unexplored concession bordering the Zambezi National Park in the northern stretches of Botswana. The closest safari tourist town is Kasane, which has an airport open to both domestic and international flights.

Boasting 20 bedrooms over two storeys that all face the waterhole, this secluded hideaway ensures every need is met in terms of accommodation. Fans, mosquito nets, safes, private balconies with seating, and butler’s trays in each room provide a much needed sense of comfort.

In addition to the standard bedroom options, there are also 2 luxury Meru style tents on raised platforms that cater for guests requiring something a little bit more luxurious.

For those needing a respite from the African heat, you’ll be pleased to know that there is a swimming pool on-site, complete with a deck area with chairs and umbrellas. When you’re not soaking up the tranquility of the bushveld at the pool’s edge, you can spend time in the boma area where a crackling fire breaks the silence of the bushveld.

Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge overlooks a thriving waterhole in the remote Kasane Forest Reserve, a relatively unexplored concession bordering the Zambezi National Park in the northern stretches of Botswana. The closest safari tourist town is Kasane, which has an airport that is open to both domestic and international flights.

The lodge’s claim to fame is its prolific elephant herds, many of which can be spotted congregating around the lodge’s waterhole - it’s not uncommon to spend evenings dining with elephants. In addition to Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge’s enviable location, it is also fast becoming a sought-after safari destination for large groups seeking a lodge of superior quality with African inspired design.

Boasting 20 bedrooms that all face the waterhole (two levels), this secluded hideaway ensures every need is met in terms of accommodation. Fans, mosquito nets, safes, private balconies with seating, and butler’s trays in each room provide a much needed sense of comfort. In addition to the standard bedroom options, there are also 2 luxury Meru style tents on raised platforms that cater for guests requiring something a little bit more luxurious.

The main area of the lodge is joined to the rooms by a quaint wooden walkway that meanders its way from the rooms to an expansive reception area housing a curio shop, and a further viewing deck overlooking the waterhole. There is also a massage spa being built, which will offer another dimension to the already sublime safari experience.

The two dining areas each have a small bar area, and like the rest of the lodge, overlooks the bustling waterhole. Safari goers can expect to dine in splendour, while being introduced a fusion of flavours during meal times. Dining at Chobe Mopani is a protracted affair, and great care is taken with the dishes served. Hospitality here is top notch.

For those needing a respite from the African heat, you’ll be pleased to know that there is a swimming pool on-site, complete with a deck area with chairs and umbrellas. When you’re not soaking up the tranquility of the bushveld at the pool’s edge, spend time in the boma area where a crackling fire breaks the silence of the bushveld.

Included in your safari experience are two activities per day, which can include sundowner drives to the Kazuma Pan; a full day into the Chobe National Park for game drives and a boat cruise; cultural village tours; and day trips to Victoria Falls.

These safaris open up a world of opportunity to view the high concentration of African wild dog, leopard, buffalo, elephant, lion, impalas, zebras, antelope, and plains game. Because the lodge is located between two parks - Chobe National Park and the Zambezi National Park - the game viewing is exceptional.

Sun Destinations
Rotsvy Road
Rock Fig Centre, Shop 6
Hoedspruit, Lp 1380
South Africa

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Sunday, 4 September 2022

Botswana: Senyati Safari Camp update | Сеньяти Сафари Кемп Парк Чобе Ботсвана

Senyati offers an excellent basecamp for people who do not want to stay in Chobe National Park. Senyati Safari Camp is located only 20 km from the main gate of Chobe National Park in the Elephant Corridor leading to Zimbabwe. Although Senyati Safari Camp is very private, the waterhole knows no privacy.

The waterhole is well lit through the night with a spotlight and guests can enjoy viewing animals during the whole evening. A well-stocked bar has given Senyati the reputation as the place with the bar with the best view in the world.

Free internet is provided to all guests from the viewing deck. A variety of animals come and go throughout the day. The waterhole is frequented by a good variety of species such as hyena, banded mongoose, warthogs, roan antelope, monkey baboons, buffalo, sable, elephants and the occasional leopard. During summer months buffalo herds easily exceed 300 in number and it is not uncommon to see buffalo and elephants competing for position at the waterhole. Should the king of the wild make an appearance, lion of course, the buffalo make a hasty retreat. It is a possibility that visitors have the ultimate experience of watching the king of the wild quench his thirst at the waterhole along with the regulars — the elephants. It not uncommon to see as many as 400 elephants at Senyati during October and November. Senyati is located just off the Nata Kazangula road in the Lesoma Valley right in the Elephant Corridor between Botswana and Zimbabwe. Senyati has 19 campsites, each equipped with an electric point, private shower, toilet and cooking area. Furthermore, Senyati is famous for the elephant hide from which professional as well as amateur photographers can take photos of elephants from ground level from a very close distance where you can see the animals from very closely, but the animals cannot see the photographer. Senyati offers free Satellite Wi-Fi to all guests. From 5pm to 9pm Senyati also has a gift shop with local curious as well as day-to-day necessities. The chalets are self-catering equipped with a fridge with a small freezer, stove, microwave, kettle, toaster, cutlery and crockery. Chalets are cleaned on a daily basis and are all located around the waterhole.

Chalets

(All Chalets are located around the waterhole area and have their own BBQ)

What do your chalets include?

Senyati’s chalets are spacious, equipped with cutlery, crockery, glasses, kettle, toaster, induction stove, fridge, air-conditioned(s)/fan, mosquito nets, 220V electric plugs, bedding, flushing toilet with toilet paper, hot water, braai area, chairs, tables and each chalet has a BBQ area right in front of the chalet. Wood and meat is for sale at reception.

Family Chalet (there are 3 units)

A family chalet consists of a unit which is ideally designed for a family, parents and 2 kids. Our family chalets have the extra two beds on a mezzanine floor. This is also suitable for two couples who are comfortable with each other as the second sleeping area is not enclosed. Also, if you are not fit and cannot climb steep stairs then you will not be able to sleep on the mezzanine area. There is one bathroom in each family unit.

Family Chalet with Double Bed (We only have 1 of these chalets)

This family unit has a double bed and 2 x ¾ beds in one open plan sleeping/ living area. The kitchenette is separate from the sleeping area, and it has a lovely big tree under which the braai stand is situated. It is located towards the middle of the property with a partial view of both the waterhole and the pan.

Double Chalet (there is 1 unit)

This unite has a unique view of the waterhole. It can sleep 4 and is best suited for a family. It has 1 double bed and 2 ¾ beds, all on one level. It is an open pan sleeping room with an en-suite bathroom. Outside next to the chalet there is a Bush Bath. Perfect for Honeymooners

Double Twin Chalet (We only have 2 that can sleep 10 each and 1 that can sleep 6)

These chalets are huge. They can sleep a max of 10 people and have two main bedrooms with 2 x ¾ beds inside and 2 single beds. The other beds are on the closed veranda. This chalet has a huge living dining area and is suitable for families who want to spend a holiday together.

Camping sites

Each campsite has its own private ablutions and power points (220v electric plugs), shower, toilet. Wood and meat are for sale at reception. Groups are allocated. Depending on the size of the group and the availability of campsites. Each campsite also has their own BBQ/Braai stand. You will need to bring your own equipment (Tents, Pots and Pans Etc.) We do not put toilet paper at the campsites. If you need toilet paper, kindly ask at reception. It is for free. If your campsites are infested with ants, please ask for ant poison at reception. It is for free

Electric Points: Available at all campsites (220v electric plugs).

Hot Water Boilers at Campsites: Staff arrive at 7.30 am and will start to make the morning fires. Should you wish to make your own hot water earlier, kindly do so. Please make a small fire as big fires destroy our boilers and can be dangerous.

Fire wood?

Wood is sold at reception. It is illegal to collect firewood in Botswana from the side of the road and there are officials who control is, so please refrain from doing so and if caught, you might find yourself in trouble.

Fuel/Petrol/Gasoline

All fuel originates from the South African refineries and is usually a little cheaper than in sunny South Africa.

There is no fuel available in Chobe National Park. Make sure you fill up before departure to go to or from Chobe National Park.

Kasane is your last place to refuel if you go to Moremi, Savuti etc. but then one does not use as much petrol as you imagine, as you do not drive that far. You drive long hours, but small distances. If you are going into Savuti and Moremi, it is advised that you take an extra Jerry can.

Fuel can be bought by credit card in most main towns, but cash is always the best.

No "Petrol Cards" or "Garage Cards" are accepted.

Gifts:

African gifts are available in our gift shop, Elephantastic, located at the Reception Area of Senyati.

Groceries: There is a lovely Spar in Kasane, which stocks just about everything, huge Choppies very close to Senyati (about 6km away), a fantastic Chemist in town, so just pack yourselves and come! Not necessary to stop in Francistown etc. for groceries.

How long do people stay at Senyati?

Most people stay for a minimum of 3 days. One day the day they arrive, then the next day they do a Vic Falls Transfer and the next day they go on a Chobe River cruise and then depart the next day, so a total of 3 days is recommended, but of course it depends on the need of the tourist. A fourth day can be used for a Safari drive; however, the safari drive can be combined on one day with the boat cruise. The Victoria Falls trip is an entire day trip so don’t plan anything else on that day.

Ice: Ice is available from reception.

Internet (Wi-Fi) from 5pm to 9 pm. Only for Guest staying at Senyati. Kindly ask for the password. Wi-Fi is available from the deck only.

Kids

Kids are welcome, but we ask parents to contain their kids as most of our clients visit Senyati because of their love for animals. Please see that your kids remain quiet on the deck. Your kids can play and enjoy the pool. Kids should not be unattended at pool PLEASE KEEP YOUR KIDS AWAY FROM THE ELECTRIC FENCING around the pool. Senyati will not take responsibility for any injury Parents are expected to look after their kids.

We recommend that you take your kids on a Chobe Boat cruise, which is wonderful, and to the crocodile farm in Kazungula. More information on that in this pamphlet. Or ask for details at reception when you are here. Kids enjoy playing in the sand at Senyati and are welcome to do so.

No kids are allowed into the hide without their parents. We ask for absolute silence in the hide. Senyati welcomes everyone; however, Senyati cannot take responsibility for the safety of kids if people do not look after their own kids.

But, yes, we welcome well behaved, nature loving, sweet kids as much as we love our elephants.

Senyati can be accessed by 4x4 from the Senyati sign on the Nata-Kazangula Road, however, campers who have only 2x4 transport can email Senyati for directions to an alternative route.

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Saturday, 26 March 2022

Flame of Africa: Trip to the only International Quadripoint in the World

#kazungulaquadripoint, #flameofafrica #chobe #botswana #dronesberg

Trip to the only International Quadripoint in the World!

What’s New in Chobe?

Kazungula Bridge Tour, home to four different Countries!

The newly built Kazungula Bridge is certainly unique, not only by its interesting design but also by it straddling four international countries. Yes that’s right, that makes this the only International Quadripoint in the world!

Join Flame of Africa for a really unique trip. We will take you to the point where the four countries meet. This is approximately 15 minutes drive from Kasane and then 35 minutes by boat. There is no need for Immigration procedures as we will not leave Botswana Waters.

While on the cruise we will provide interesting facts from the four Countries along with their cultures and beliefs.

Have your cameras ready, you will have plenty photo opportunities and don’t forget that all important Selfie!

Ever wondered why the Bridge is curved? Jump on board and we will tell you more.

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Monday, 20 December 2021

Desert & Delta Safaris: Top 10 Reasons To Visit Botswana

TOP 10 REASONS WHY BOTSWANA – WITH US – IS THE ULTIMATE POST-PANDEMIC TRAVEL DESTINATION

The global vaccine rollout is helping boost consumer confidence. Airline schedules around the world are ramping up and the road to recovery has begun in earnest. 

We’ve heard of new terms like “Revenge Travel” pop up. The idea that after over a year in lockdown there is a massive pent up demand for international travel and rather than postponing, people are opting for that dream destination they always wanted to visit…now! Spending more and making up for lost vacation time.

Either way, we believe a boom is inevitable and are already seeing more and more guests arrive by the day. Travellers are sensible in their decision making and we believe Botswana should be considered as one of the best places for a post-pandemic travel destination.

In choosing where to go abroad, guests will want safe destinations where they will spend plenty of time in the outdoors, reconnect with nature and be away from people as much as possible. Botswana is all that – and more!

We’ve put together a guide to help you understand why coming on a trip with Desert & Delta Safaris is the best travel choice.

#1 SAFETY FIRST  – EXTREMELY HIGH STANDARD OF HYGIENE & SAFETY PROTOCOLS

Botswana is considered one of the world’s most exclusive international travel destinations. Attracting travellers from around the world to enjoy the highest standard of accommodation, service and of course safari experience.

We’ve ensured that our COVID safety protocols go above and beyond the expected standards for our international visitors.

Not only are the camps ensuring that hygiene standards are at the absolute maximum but travelling in Botswana is a safe way to minimize exposure. The camps and lodges we operate are effectively COVID free bubbles with all staff tested before arriving into camp and movement in and out of camp can only happen with negative test results.

Every international traveller arriving into Botswana needs to present a negative PCR test valid no more than 72 hours from time of test and as an extra precaution the airports of Maun and Kasane (the main gateways to the safari regions) perform a complimentary RAPID Antigen test on arrival at the airport.

#2 BOTSWANA IS CONSIDERED ONE OF AFRICA’S MOST EXCLUSIVE, UNCROWDED SAFARI DESTINATIONS IN AFRICA

National parks, game-reserves and private concessions are all stringently controlled so you can expect to enjoy huge, remote wilderness areas with minimal numbers of other travellers. Try a stay at the private Xugana Island Lodge in the Okavango Delta with thousands of hectares of islands, waterways and open floodplains to explore with a maximum of 16-guests.

#3 NATURAL SOCIAL DISTANCING WHILE ON SAFARI

All our safari activities are already designed to maximise space and privacy. Every game drive vehicle is designed with a guaranteed window seat with ample space, both for photographic purposes and social distancing. All boat activities will ensure the middle seat remains unoccupied. Mokoro activities are designed for a maximum of two-guests at a time or if you’re travelling as a single, just you. While on a walking safari at Camp Okavango or Xugana Island Lodge, each group is split into maximum six guests and you’ll have all the space you will ever need.

#4 WORK WITH OPERATORS WITH A PROVEN TRACK RECORD & ESTABLISHED OPERATION IN THE COUNTRY

Desert & Delta Safaris is the longest standing luxury safari group in Botswana. We’ve been through it all over the years and will come out of every crises wiser and stronger.

Our style of doing business over the years is what has kept us going all this time. You will be looked after like a part of our family from the moment you join us.

#5 ALL YOUR SAFARI PLANS UNDER ONE SOLID OPERATOR

Keep your logistics simple. By working with an operator like us you can keep your whole safari under one company. We have our own charter flight company called Safari Air and own eight different safari lodges around the country. From the Chobe River, home to the highest concentration of elephants, to the renowned Moremi Game Reserve, islands in Okavango Delta and the vast Makgadikgadi Salt Pans. Desert & Delta Safaris covers all the key-ecosystems in Botswana.

#6 THE BEST ADVENTURES IN REMOTE AFRICA AWAIT YOU IN BOTSWANA


During the lockdown we’ve refined two of our most epic sleep-out experiences to appeal to the post-pandemic traveller. We know the lockdown has increased our desire to reconnect with the true remote wilds of the world. Our sleep-out experience on the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans does just that. A maximum of six-people and your specialist guide will venture out into the middle of the world’s largest salt flats to sleep under the stars. Something our guests have called life-changing!

Or if you want a more luxurious adventure try our romantic sleep-out deck at Camp Okavango. Just you and your loved one under the vast Botswana sky on a raised deck, with a large double bed, on a private corner of the island.

#7 CONTINGENCY PLANS IN PLACE FOR THE NW WAY OF TRAVEL

We know there is a certain amount of apprehension with travelling post-pandemic but rest-assured we have considered every eventuality and have a contingency plan for everything. We also have a strong relationship with the government, local authorities and our partners in providing COVID tests. We’ve got it covered.

We want you to feel completely relaxed while knowing all the ground arrangements are taken care of.

#8 A BUMPER YEAR FOR WILDLIFE & SAFARI THIS 2021

Rains were phenomenal in the season earlier this year. Around double the average in some places. This means that those looking to enjoy the water activities in the Chobe & Okavango will be treated to brimming levels of water and outstanding scenery. Perfect on the lush floodplains in a traditional mokoro (canoe).

Generous rainfall results in more grasses, more birds and herbivores and of course with the plethora of life comes an increase in predator activity.

So this year promises to be a remarkable Botswana safari year!

#9 RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL IS AT THE HEART OF THE DESTINATION

The pandemic has made us realise we need to be responsible in the way we travel. Too many destinations have become overcrowded and unsustainable. Botswana, on the other hand, has had a strict low-volume and high-revenue model since independence in the late 60’s. Putting conservation at the heart of the way we run our business.

It’s also critical that responsible tourism empowers the citizens of Africa as well as protect the wildlife. At Desert & Delta Safaris empowerment of the local community is the pillar of our success. One of the first premier safari circuits in the country to be full run and managed by Botswana citizens.

We’ve retained and supported all our staff throughout the pandemic.

Your safari with us goes a really long way in making a lasting positive impact on the people and protection of the environment.

#10 CHOOSE THE PERFECT DESTINATION – NOT THE BEST DEAL

At Desert & Delta Safaris we are proud of our exceptional value. Offering a world-class safari in Botswana for an affordable rate. Coming to our country will leave you feeling enriched and energised. Pure, unadulterated African wilderness delivered at a time, after a year of lockdown, when you need that connection to nature again!

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