SAFARI
TRAVEL: BOTSWANA
Botswana
is without doubt the most dramatic wildlife safari destination
in Africa, and is an ideal destination after a Namibia
adventure - the contrast of Namibia's surreal desert landscapes
with the tranquil waterways of the Okavango Delta will
impact and impress even the most seasoned traveller.
Although
Botswana is a landlocked desert country, the waters of
the mighty Kavango river empty into the Kalahari desert,
turning the thirsty wastelands into a vast and magnificent
oasis, teeming with wildlife, birds and vegetation. This
is Big Five country at its best and a myriad of experiences
and opportunities await the safari traveller throughout
this pristine wilderness.
 |
If
combining Namibia with Botswana, the ideal mix is
at least 5 - 7 days in each country. In Botswana,
it is best to split the time between two contrasting
regions, to benefit from a combination of land and
water activities.
The
primary waterways are concentrated in the heart
of the Okavango, where a highlight is exploring
in a dugout Makoro canoe. There are also swamps
and rivers in the Savute, Linyanti and Chobe regions,
while the Moremi game reserve is drier wood and
grassland with an abundance of game, including all
the Big 5.
Expect
ot pay between US$400 - US$800 per person per day
sharing for unrivalled safari lodge luxury during
the peak seasons between May and October. Prices
often drop considerably at other times, while at
the top end of the scale an elephant back safari
comes in at around US$1600 per person per day sharing. |
There
are also overland Botswana safaris throughout the Okavango
and Chobe regions - these range from participatory camping
safaris such as the 10 day Mopane (around US$ 1900 per
person during peak season) to a luxury fly-in safari such
as the Ospey at US$ 2500 per person sharing for 5 days.
Lodges
in Botswana are mostly small and exclusive, catering for
between five and 20 guests. These camps operate in private
concession regions, making for a truly exclusive safari
experience. Access is by light aircraft charter from Maun
or Kasane. These two gateway towns are serviced by scheduled
flights out of Johannsburg and Windhoek. Victoria Falls
- a mere 90 minute drive from Kasane - makes a perfect
ending to a Botswana safari.
CLICK
BELOW FOR MORE DETAILS ON THESE TOP BOTSWANA SAFARI DESTINATIONS:
