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.
Kanana Camp
Kanana Camp is a true hidden gem, perfectly nestled in the southwest of the Okavango Delta along the serene banks of the Xudum River, just outside Botswana's renowned Moremi Game Reserve. Without question, this destination is one of the most idyllic escapes for families and couples alike.
Whether you're exploring the waterways by mokoro or enjoying a sundowner around a crackling fire, every moment at Kanana is curated to create unforgettable memories.
Selinda Explorers Camp
Located on the remote banks of Botswana's Selinda Spillway, Selinda Explorers Camp offers a unique safari experience. This intimate, eco-friendly camp combines vintage charm with modern comfort, bringing guests closer to Africa's wildlife.
Whether you're seeking thrilling adventures or tranquil moments immersed in nature, Selinda Explorers Camp promises an unmatched escape into the heart of the wild.
The Dhow Suite At Zarafa
Hidden in Botswana's Selinda Reserve, the Dhow Suite at Zarafa offers luxury and wilderness immersion. This private retreat blends African elegance with seclusion, perfect for families or small groups of up to four.
Overlooking the serene Zibadianja Lagoon, the suite places you at the heart of nature, where breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife await.
Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp
Perched on the edge of the breathtaking Okavango Delta, within an exclusive 8,000-hectare private concession bordering the renowned Moremi Wildlife Reserve, &Beyond Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp offers an unparalleled safari experience.
For those who demand nothing but the best, &Beyond Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp is a haven of luxury, adventure, and world-class service. It's an experience so thoughtfully crafted that it leaves one longing to return even before they have left.
Jacana Camp
Jacana Camp, with its five luxurious safari suites, offers an intimate safari experience in the heart of the Okavango Delta. Each suite is designed to provide breathtaking views of the Jao Flats floodplains, immersing guests in the region's natural beauty.
Guests can enjoy a variety of activities, including thrilling game drives to spot wildlife, serene canoeing adventures through the waterways, and guided walking safaris that bring you closer to nature.
Little Sable Camp
Little Sable Camp is a luxurious and intimate safari camp in the Khwai Private Reserve, a private concession in the Okavango Delta of Botswana.
This exclusive tented camp offers eight suites designed to be secluded and private, with stunning natural scenery stretching out before them.
Guests can experience various safari activities with the opportunity to see large herds of elephants in the dry season or predators such as cheetahs and lions during the green season.
With over 350 species of birds calling Khwai Community Reserve home, birdwatchers will be treated to an incredible visual feast!
Planet Baobab
Welcome to the quirky Planet Baobab Lodge in Botswana, close to the famed Makgadikgadi National Park, where you'll find yourself amongst ancient baobab trees and some of the best desert wildlife viewing opportunities in Africa.
Here you can enjoy game drives, safari walks, quad biking, and much more! The accommodation options, excellent service, and numerous amazing safari activities make Planet Baobab a top destination for safaris. Simply put, if you are on more of a budget, look no further than Planet Baobab.
Ngoma Safari Lodge
Ngoma provides an exclusive luxury safari lodge experience situated on the western edge of Botswana’s iconic Chobe National Park. This intimate retreat features just eight elegantly designed suites, each offering a private plunge pool and breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness.
Guests can enjoy personalized service, gourmet dining, and guided activities such as game drives and boat safaris, immersing themselves in the beauty of the Chobe River ecosystem.