Having just returned from Botswana on what I regard as the "Best Botswana Safari Ever," I simply must share my experience. Flying over on Air Botswana was fine, no delays as such. On arrival I was mesmerized with just how small an international airport can be, Maun airport is truly nothing that I expected, but they say, great things come in small packages but not the case here.
On arrival, my safari guide met me with a smile and really made me feel welcome. It was straight to a restaurant which is situated about 50 metres across the road from Maun airport exit. While having lunch on a Karibu safari which is included in all packages they run, I was told about my next six days itinerary which now made me very excited.
We depart Maun and drive via town to stop for beverages that you as the client must purchase or order before your arrival drinks such as alcohol and soft drinks. Water, wine and sundowners are supplied and is included in your package, but this is for the game drives and during dinner at night times. From here we head straight for our first camp which is a good hour and a bit drive from Maun as it is a dirt road all the way so very bumpy at times but all part of the experience. On arrival you get introduced to the other camping crew who sets up camp as we traverse through Botswana, this is part of an Authentic Botswana Safari. I was elated to see the set up of a tent and most of all I loved having a bed with a mattress in my tent which makes the world of difference if you have a back like mine.
The first night was scary as I had these bush babies having a ball outside my tent and me being a city boy was none the wiser as all I thought was Lions.
Day two of the best Botswana safari ever was amazing as we headed for the channels of Moremi / Okavango Delta. A 3-hour journey on the water to reach Gcadikwe Island Camp. We spent two nights here with resident wild animals roaming about like Elephant and buffalo, oh and Hippo. The staff were all fantastic characters, all so full of joy and happy to have us.
Then we moved on to Khwai where we spent two nights doing the Botswana Stanley Safari. Excellent camping area right on the river's edge. These two nights were especially scary as Lions and hyena would roar and respectively scream at night. It was said that the pride of lions were about 1 km away yet with the roar seemed like only metres away at night and I found it hard to sleep due to the excitement. Hippos were also mating, and that sound alone was deafening. Then we were off to the airstrip two days later for our light aircraft transfer back to Maun airport, wow what amazing scenery from the air.
All in all game viewing was not that great although I did see the BIG 5 and a cheetah and many more animals. The time of year was wrong as the long grass you cannot spot game so easily but still worthwhile as you can see by my added pictures.
Truly an amazing experience by far if you have never considered wild camping in Botswana.
Best Botswana Safari Ever.
Qorokwe Camp
Qorokwe Camp is a luxurious safari camp located in Botswana's southeastern Okavango Delta region, offering guests the perfect base from which to explore the diverse habitats and abundant wildlife.
Qorokwe is ideally located in the southeastern Okavango Delta region and offers guests the perfect base from which to explore the diverse habitats and abundant wildlife of this incredible area. An amazing safari experience in Botswana awaits at Qorokwe.
Chobe Chilwero Lodge
Chobe Chilwero Lodge offers 15 luxury stone & thatched bungalows all offering awe-inspiring scenery as a backdrop; the lodge is bordered by Botswana's famous National Park which is elephant country.
A wide range of safari activities awaits, including game drives through the Chobe National Park to spot elephants, lions, and other wildlife, as well as tranquil boat safaris on the Chobe River, offering a unique perspective of the park's rich ecosystems.
Shinde Footsteps Camp
The ultimate destination for those who dream of an authentic, old-school safari experience, Shinde Footsteps Camp offers unparalleled privacy and intimacy, accommodating no more than seven guests at a time. It’s truly a hidden gem, delivering a safari unlike any other.
Nestled in the heart of the Okavango, Shinde Footsteps Camp is the perfect escape from the demands of modern civilization. One of the most magical and serene safari camps for those seeking luxury and adventure in equal measure.
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.
Chobe Bush Lodge
Chobe Bush Lodge next to the northern Botswana town of Kasane is the perfect gateway to explore all that this region has to offer; including the safari destinations of Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Chobe National Park, Chobe River, and Victoria Falls to mention but a few.
The lodge is ideally situated for adventures along the Chobe River, where you can enjoy unforgettable wildlife viewing by boat, as well as trips to the iconic Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
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.
Xakanaxa Camp
Xakanaxa Camp offers up 12 Safari Tents on raised platforms on the Khwai River overlooking that famous Xakanaxa Lagoon that provides year-round boating safari and game drives within the Moremi Game Reserve.
Xakanaxa in the Moremi, is one of the most popular safari camps and game viewing and reserve destinations within Botswana and the Okavango Delta.
Mashatu Tent Camp
Mashatu Tent Camp is a luxurious safari destination situated in the heart of Botswana's Mashatu Game Reserve.
This picturesque tented camp offers an African experience, combining home comforts and nature's sounds.
Tent Camp consists of 8 Meru-style tented suites, each fully furnished with modern amenities and creature comforts, while the surrounding wilderness offers a range of activities, including night game drives, guided nature walks and bird watching.
A stay of 3-5 nights is recommended for a truly unique African bushveld experience.