Mboma Island Expeditions: 10 Things I Love About You

Mboma Island Expeditions is our magical mobile camp located in the heart of the Okavango Delta. Mboma, here are 10 things I love about you.

1. Your blazing orange sunsets

Africa is known for its remarkable sunsets, particularly Botswana. Because of its relatively flat landscape, sunsets appear to sink into the horizon creating a feeling of being encompassed by the skies above. Sunset hues range from mandarin to dusty pinks and shocking reds – a complete kaleidoscope of bold colours. With the flat body of the Okavango’s waters mirroring the skies above, the eye is rewarded with mind-blowing reflections. The gap between between land and sky seems to merge in the Okavango Delta, with the reed-lined banks providing the only break between land and sky. Mboma Island Expeditions is situated on the banks of the channels, ensuring you feel part of the splendour of sunset on a daily basis.

2. Your top notch location in the Okavango Delta

Mboma Island Expeditions’ location is unsurpassed. Ideally located in the North Western end of the Moremi Game Reserve close to Mboma Boat Station, makes it an easily accessible camp. To find an affordable, high-quality camp nestled in the mosaic of waterways of the Okavango Delta is rare…until Mboma Island Expeditions arrived on the scene. This truly is a sought-after destination for game viewing, superlative landscapes, and adventurous activities.

3. The attention to detail with your food and decor

This camp adds unique level of sophistication to the glamping experience. Owners Lindi and Chase have years of experience in the industry, having worked on both the operational and marketing side of safaris. They know what works, and have delivered a gem of a hideaway that focuses on stylish simplicity. The food is good, and baked products have been made from scratch. From high-quality meats being cooked an open fire to on-trend salads, Mboma knows how to keep guests’ palates satisfied. Decor is modern, with a fusion of boho-chic-meets-Morocco. This glamping destination is understated, simple, and modern.

4. The fact that you offer both land and water based activities

Located at located at one of 3 remote camp sites on the tip of the game rich Moremi Game Reserve, makes Mboma a prime destination for land and water based activities. Because Moremi’s ecosystem are so diverse, the team at Mboma have ensured that all aspects of safaris are covered, from mokoro to boating and game drives. Here are your activities:

Boat excursions around the Delta islands and through the hippo-filled channels (Dependent on water levels)
When the water levels are high enough, boating excursions will head to the open waterways of the Okavango Delta to view the heronry.
Game drives into the Moremi Game Reserve to see predators, which are most active in early hours of morning and late evening.
Enjoy the reed-lined channels of the Okavango Delta in the traditional way with a guided mokoro trip.

5. Your picturesque views from camp

Mboma overlooks the floodplains of the Okavango Delta, and is surrounded by fan palms, jackleberrys, sausage trees, and the intricate waterways of the Godikwe Lagoon. Dotted across the plains you’ll notice scores of red lechwe and lumbering elephants. At night the powerful guttural roars from lions advertising their territory can often be heard echoing across the flat landscape. Sights and sounds at Mboma are a stark reminder that you’re raw and wild Africa. This is a place where you’ll fall asleep and wake-up in an other-wordly paradise.

6. How you’ve made glamping unforgettable

Glamping is a far cry from the camping experience, but there’s an art to finding the balance between being adventurous and sophisticated. Glamping doesn’t require an over the top experience, but rather one that has all the creature comforts from home coupled with stylish decor. Because Mboma is eco-aware and leaves no footprint, the camp set-up isn’t permanent. Swag beds, bedside tables, wardrobe space, carpets, and decor is all set-up prior to arrival. It’s incredible what the team can achieve to make each of the Meru tent interiors look amazing.

7. Your abundance of hippos and elephants

The water dwelling beasts love Mboma’s watery domain and always seem to be in the backdrop of images. You can count on hippo pods and elephant herds to always make an appearance in this sector of the Okavango Delta. Although hippos and elephants are in abundance, the Moremi hosts predators such as African wild dogs, lions, and cheetah. But it’s the honking of the hippos heard from camp that makes you feel like you’re completely immersed in the Delta experience.

8. An incredible base to explore the Moremi

The Moremi Game Reserve is a world-renown game reserve with local communities that own and run certain concessions. You don’t get more rugged and wild than the predator filled Moremi.

Botswana is a wildlife paradise, with elephants roaming in high numbers, hippos occupying every waterway, buffalo gathering en masse to drink from the waterholes, zebra migrations, red lechwe bounding through rivers, giraffe touching the tree tops, and warthogs shovelling the earth.

Moremi is a known wildlife hotspot, and is a protected area of the Okavango Delta. Lion, leopard, cheetah, wild dog, and spotted and brown hyena, are some of the top predator species that are frequently seen. The birdlife in Botswana is no exception to the fantastic collection of wild creatures.

9. A birder’s paradise

Whether you’re a Twitcher who loves to photograph local specials like herons or someone who chases lifers, Mboma’s long list of species is bound to keep avid birders and passionate avian communities happy. This World Heritage Site has over 400 species of bird to spot, making it one of Africa’s top birding destinations. Species to spot include the pygmy goose, African fish eagle, malachite kingfisher, slaty egret, spoonbills, and bateleur eagles, to name but a few.

10. How you are, simply put…MAGICAL

Mboma Island Expeditions is a place of magic and wonder. Point 10 is really just a way to re-iterate the 9 points mentioned above.

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An Update from Umkumbe in the Sabie Game Reserve

Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside is one of Sun Destinations’ most established properties in the Greater Kruger. Sitting in a prime position in the Sabie Game Reserve surrounded by the Sabi Sand, Umkumbe’s drawcard is its abundant predator viewing opportunities and affordability. We are often flooded with reports of leopard and lion sightings from Umkumbe’s passionate safari guides. And even during the summer season when the bushveld is thick, there are still noteworthy sightings. Guides Tyron and Elsabe sent us a few updates accompanied by their breathtaking images, which you’ve seen splattered across Facebook.

Here are the safari updates from Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside:

The local N’Weti male and female Ndzanzeni were seen mating
N’tsumi and her independent daughter-Sasekile-were also spotted
The Ubuso male, who is part of the N’waswitshaka coalition, was seen with the Kambula females
A leopard and her subadult were seen tucking into a warthog kill – guides couldn’t quite get an ID on the pair
Tyron claims that one of the major highlights of the season was spotting the rare Talamati Pride of lions soaking up the sun on Christmas morning. The pride spends most of their time in the north of the reserve, so seeing them was a real gift for the team. Tyron found the pride on the banks of the waterhole after being chased off from their buffalo kill by two hefty male lions.
The reserve is heaving with elephant sightings, in particular elephant calf sightings. Spotting new life in the reserve always brings a smile to guests’ faces.

If you like the sound of Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside, then here a few useful bits of information:

Umkumbe has a total of 10 rooms, both Standard and Superior. There are 7 Superior Suites and 3 standard rooms.
Some of the rooms overlook the Sand River, plains area and waterhole.
There is a indoor lounge with couches on which to relax, as well as a snooker table. An outdoor sitting area has views of the Sand River and a help yourself tea & coffee station.
There is a small splash pool surrounded by decking and deck chairs.
For the fitness minded, there is an on-site gym.

To find a comfortable lodge erring on the side of rustic in the Sabi Sand can be tricky, but not when you know about Umkumbe. Lining the banks of the seasonal Sand River, Umkumbe is the perfect spot for safari-goers who favour sightings and the simple way of life. You won’t find grand hallways, cascading chandeliers, and Michelin star chefs here, but you will find a sense of family, exceptional hospitality, and all the creature comforts from home. If you want Kruger authenticity combined with an unforgettable game viewing experience, then come to Umkumbe.

Chacma Bush Camp is perfect for a multi-generational safari experience

There are a multitude of safari lodges and camps that cater for a specific niche of traveller. Camps that focus on walking safaris are geared towards the fit and adventurous, while those with starbeds hold great appeal for loved up couples. This all has a place, but there’s a new kind of travel on the rise: multi-generational travel experiences. When extended families travel together with kids, parents, and grandparents in tow, you need a one-size-fits-all kind of camp. Enter Chacma Bush Camp, a small and intimate camp catering for a broad spectrum of needs that’s flexible with its safari offerings. Bring the whole family and book out Chacma—the actual camp layout, amenities, and safari experience is suited for a variety of age groups.

There are just three thatched stone chalets at camp: Steenbok, Grysbok, and Klipspringer. When configured to their maximum capacity, rooms can accommodate a total of 10 people. Because of the low capacity, Chacma’s safari experience is always personalised. Guides and managers become part of your shared experience, and you’re guaranteed to walk away with lasting friendships. Young families can stay in Klipspringer, which can sleep up to six people.

Steenberg chalet would be perfect for an older couple as it sleeps two people, but a third person can be added. Steenberg is also the most easily accessible of all the rooms, and overlooks the waterhole. Couples have been known to spend much of their downtime on the patio observing the wilderness splendour at the waterhole.

The Grysbok chalet is perfect for older families as it has two separate rooms, sleeping two people in each. This stone chalet is the perfect place for those friends and families who need a bit of privacy. This chalet has two separate bedrooms with a large indoor shower and en suite bathroom. For adults, there is a main bedroom with double bed. Children (and adults who don’t mind) can stay in the second bedroom which has bunk beds. This also has a seating area and patio, and path that flows down to the pool area.

The largest chalet is the Klipspringer chalet. The expansive outdoor shower is a firm favourite among guests who enjoy indulging in invigorating outdoor experiences. The chalet can sleep up to four adults, or two adults and four children. Your bed set up comprises a King size bed/converter, large sleep couch and two stretcher beds. This chalet is closest to the entrance of Chacma, and has a view of the swimming pool and boma area.

The shared areas are one level, and flank a bustling waterhole that’s roughly one metre from the patio and pool area. The boma is adjacent to the pool and patio, and flows out towards the outdoor dining section. Dinners are served outside at one long safari dining table, and then it’s off to the boma area to sit around the campfire to chat about life on safari while relaxing under the night sky.

You can expect two game drives a day, one in the morning and one late afternoon. Game drives depart when predators are at their most active. Chacma’s reserve is brimming with wildlife activity. Kingfishers frequently dive bomb the waters of the waterhole in front of camp, while prolific elephant herds lumber through the reserve. Among the dense populations of plains game, you’ll stumble across the local Lamai Pride of lions as well as a few shy leopards. The terrain at Chacme is a major drawcard, making it one of the most interesting lodges in terms of the surrounding landscape.

Chacma Bush Camp is the perfect place to hire out for groups travelling and can be configured to suit just about any group if booked in its entirety.

Where to Stay in Chobe and the Okavango Delta

There are a few not-to-be-missed destinations in Botswana that really define the African safari experience. For first-time visitors to the world’s most coveted safari country, the Chobe National Park and Okavango Delta are two regions worth visiting. Passionate safari goers will delight in knowing that Chobe and the Delta offer the best of both land and water based safari experiences. Chobe National Park specialises in game drives and boat cruises along the mighty Chobe River. The Okavango Delta is known for its water-based safari activities such as traditional mokoro, walking safaris, and boating. Wondering where to stay in Chobe and the Okavango? Look no further, our portfolio has three options for you: Mboma Island Expeditions, Camp Savuti, and Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge.

Where to Stay in Chobe and the Okavango Delta

Mboma Island Expeditions, Camp Savuti, and Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge are perfectly placed to enjoy the highlights of Botswana’s most revered regions. One of our consultants can help you map out your Botswana itinerary and discuss the best options to suit your timeframe and budget. Let’s reveal a bit more about our three popular camps that form part of the Sun Destinations Trails of Botswana route.

Mboma Island Expeditions in the Okavango Delta

Conveniently located on the banks of the palm-lined Godikwe lagoon, magical Mboma Island Expeditions is an idyllic hideaway in the Okavango Delta. Fringing the outskirts of the Moremi Game Reserve, Mboma is perfectly positioned to enjoy mokoro adventures in the hippo-filled channels of the Okavango Delta and game drives into the predator-rich Moremi savannah.

Mboma is a stylish, low-impact mobile camp offering an authentic wilderness experience. One could class the experience as glamping, but it’s a level up from glamping. 5 sturdy Meru-style tents sit under a canopy of trees that provide much needed shade during the heat of the day. Each tent has an en suite, open-air bathroom, private bucket showers, and chemical toilets. Interiors are comfortable yet plush, offering a cloud of comfort with the finest linen adorning swag style beds. Lantern lined pathways lead the way from the rooms to the main area of camp which houses a small lounge and bar area, and dining section. And, of course, there is an outdoor firepit area where many nights are spent under the starlit skies.

>> Click here to download the Mboma Island Expeditions fact sheet

Camp Savuti in Chobe National Park

Hiding out in a quiet corner of the Chobe National Park in the world-renown Savuti region, sits the quiet Camp Savuti. Savuti is famous for its bulk predator sightings, in particular lion and African wild dogs. The elephant herd count in this section of Chobe is staggering. Award-winning documentaries have been shot in the Savuti area, cementing its reputation as a prime wildlife destination. Camp Savuti is ideal for safari goers wanting to avoid the big crowds during season.

Activities at Savuti include two game drives a day, with the evening drive taking place in the famed Savute Marsh area. The Savuti channel was a dry channel that began flowing again in 2010, but has since stopped flowing and is currently dry. Minor earth tremors caused the unblocking of the Savuti channel which is linked to the Linyanti river system. The changes in the landscape attract unusual wildlife activity. Visitors are provided with ample opportunity to witness a spectacle of migratory wildlife.

All 5 of Camp Savuti’s spacious tented rooms overlook the marsh area, and are built on raised wooden platforms that take advantage of the views. Tents have outdoor showers for fun-loving, adventurous guests who want to elevate their safari experience. You can spend your days relaxing in the covered lounge or bar area, and spend evenings lazing around the roaring campfire in the traditional boma area.

Camp Savuti is raw and wild, and one of the most authentic camps in Chobe National Park.

>> Click here to download the Camp Savuti fact sheet

Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge

In the remote Kasane Forest Reserve sits the newly revamped Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge. The Kasane Forest Reserve is an unexplored concession bordering the Zambezi National Park in norther Botswana. The closes town is Kasane, which makes Chobe Mopani an easily accessible safari destination.

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 luxury safari options, there are also 2 Meru style tents on raised platforms that cater for guests requiring something a little bit more luxurious.

>> Click here to download the Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge fact sheet

Umkumbe Feedback and Images From Guides

Over the past few months Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside has received rave reviews for their expert guiding skills, game viewing opportunities, and warm hospitality. Today we’d like to showcase a few images from our budding photographer-guides who exhibit a passion for both the wild and the lens. In addition, we are also going to shine the spotlight on a few of the recent RAVE reviews from TripAdvisor. And who better to trust than guests who’ve travelled with Sun Destinations?

Here are our latest top 5 stellar reviews from guests who’ve travelled to Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside:

Great experience

I thoroughly enjoyed my 3 night stay at Umkumbe. My ranger, Sam, was very passionate, enthusiastic and knowledgeable. The rest of the staff were also passionate and helpful. The view over the river is amazing and we had great elephant sightings in the riverbed, including a newborn. We also had great sightings on the drives and very enjoyable bush walks. The food was delicious and I was well catered for as a vegan.

Best Trip Ever

Our group of 10 stayed at the Umkumbe lodge for 3 nights in September and the lodge was everything we hoped for. It’s in an excellent location in the Sabie Sands Reserve which is visited by a wide variety of wildlife, and is on the river bank which offers even more opportunities for game viewing outside of the daily morning and afternoon game drives.

The rooms are spacious with comfortable beds, a large sitting area, roomy bathrooms, and outdoor showers – the food was delicious – and the staff was always extremely helpful, friendly, and willing to go out of their way to make our visit a memorable one.

Our guide, Shannon, and tracker, Forward, were superb and their obvious passion for what they do helped increase the excitement and enjoyment our group experienced every time we headed out for a sighting. Whether we were on an early morning game drive, relaxing by the pool, watching elephants cross the river from the deck, or enjoying a delicious fireside dinner, Umkumbe lodge met or exceeded our expectations in every way. Highly recommended.

Immersive Experience

We had a brilliant 3 nights at Umkumbe in Sabie Sands. It is an excellent location for wildlife and the accommodation, facilities and food for us were a perfect level of comfort in the bush without being pretentious. A great spot to be bring down a fww of the barriers we put between us and nature! The hospitality and friendliness of the all staff is on point.

Our guide Tyron was awesome and we loved listening to, and asking questions of his extensive knowledge about this environment that he is so humbly passionate about. Our tracker Forward also had some amazing moments of spotting creatures that would be impossible for us mere mortals! While staying here I was training for a marathon, so I was very appreciative of the functioning gym to train in, rather than risking my life beyond the electric fence. We will certainly be recommending Umkumbe to family and friends!

Incredible place and experience of the Sabi Sands game reserve

Absolutely amazing experience visiting this place. The staff are all phenomenal, from Marko, Shannon and the rest of the team, and most of all our guide Elsabe, who is an incredible, knowledgeable and passionate person that made our experience 100 times better. The lodge conditions were brilliant and the food amazing. Could not recommend this place enough.

Second visit and as good as first time

This was our second visit to Umkumbe, the last time was November 2019 on our last trip away. The first time was brilliant with Tanya as our ranger, this trip Marco was our ranger. He was so helpful and went out of his way to ensure that our game drives were the best they could be. We see so much and had a briliant time. Can highly reccomend Umkumbe and will be planning to go again. We had a premier room and it pays to go for one of these rooms if possible as the view is a lot better than the standard rooms. This not a luxury lodge but you are not paying for a luxury lodge, the food is good, the service is brilliant and the game drives are amongst the best and this is the reason for a safari holiday

Through the eyes of a guide

Below are a few images from our guides who regularly keep us updated with their recent sightings. Tyron Combrink and Shannon Nicole Erasmus are always the first to send through photos, detailing their Sabi Sand game drive activities with images.

Introduction to Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge

Hiding out in thickets of the Kasane Forest Reserve sits Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge, a burgeoning luxury safari lodge where the focus in hospitality and the overall experience. The lesser-explored Kasane Forest Reserve is conveniently located a stone’s throw from the town of Kasane, and borders Zimbabwe and remote parts of Chobe.

The reserve is characterised by dense thickets of forests, and the predominant species in the area includes elephant, buffalo, and giraffe. Birdlife is in the area is exceptional, and visitors can expect to see a host of forest dwellers and waders. Botswana is host to over 600 species of bird, both endemic and summer migrants. A few of the more popular species to spot include: yellow-bellied greenbul, Kurrichane thrush, Dickinson’s kestrel and the African woollyneck. Plains game such as waterbuck, warthogs, sable and kudu thrive in this forested habitat.

In this forested reserve teeming with wildlife, sits the charming Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge. The lodge itself overlooks a thriving waterhole, and its concession borders that 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, making Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge one of the most accessible safari lodges in the area.

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. The lodge is the perfect safari destination for large groups seeking a comfortable lodge that’s well-run.

Accommodation at Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge

Boasting 20 bedrooms over two storeys that all face the waterhole, this secluded hideaway ensures every need is met in terms of accommodation. Each of the rooms boasts tasteful African inspired design elements, along with all the creature comforts from home. In each of the standard rooms, you’ll find fans, mosquito nets, safes, private balconies with seating, and butler’s trays. On-site there are also two luxury Meru style tents on raised platforms that cater for guests requiring something a little bit more luxurious.

Camp Life at Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge

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.

Activities at Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge

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.

Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge is the perfect addition to any Botswana portfolio, and pairs perfectly with camps in the Okavango Delta area as it provides an opportunity to explore two completely diverse regions.

African Retreats Welcomes “Perfect” Panzi Lodge

Set in the heart of the idyllic Guernsey Private Nature Reserve in a wooded gully, sits the charming Panzi Lodge. This new addition to the African Retreats portfolio of properties is fantastic, and they’ll no doubt see plenty of success. 10 beautifully appointed thatched chalets on raised wooden platforms provide the perfect escape from big city life. For local South Africans, Panzi offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy an affordable and unforgettable safari experience.

Panzi Lodge is surrounded by iconic bushveld terrain and is renown for its warm, world-class hospitality. With its 3 raised viewing decks, architects have certainly maximised the lodge’s wilderness location. The viewing decks really deserve special mention. Viewing deck one is best positioned for sunrise over the waterhole; viewing deck two is perfect for sundowners and has sweeping views of the Drakensberg; viewing deck three is the pool deck overlooking the ‘veld and pool; and the most stunning viewing deck is the water tower offering sublime views of the Kruger terrain.

The main area of the lodge is designed for relaxation, and there’s even a weekly bonfire/ barbecue evening to really enhance your safari experience. For those sizzling hot summer days, there’s a swimming pool surrounded by a deck area. The main lodge also opens up onto the bar, lounge and dining area where you can enjoy drinks and freshly made food.

For evening relaxation, the boma area is the place to be. When the summer rains hit the lands, a river runs through the boma area, creating a small waterfall which only adds to that epic natural element.

There are 10 thatched chalets designed in an A-frame style, each with their own private wooden balconies. Rooms have huge glass windows that let in plenty of light and natural scenes. The serenity of this refreshing lodge is unsurpassed. Decor is mainly muted hues, with pieces of colourful African art adding pops of colour. Rooms are connected to the main area via connected wooden pathways. On-site guests can enjoy daily bush walks and night drives in Panzi’s traverse and enjoy the close proximity to popular off-site activities such as hot air ballooning, day trips into the Kruger National Park, Panorama Route tours, and more.

Whether it’s at the lodge or further afield, guests can enjoy a flexible wildlife adventure. Giraffe, antelope, buffalo, wildebeest, zebra, and abundant birdlife can be spotted from camp. Whether you choose to relax at the poolside with a cocktail, soar across the Lowveld in a hot air balloon, or chill on your balcony, Panzi is perfect.

Panzi offers rewarding on-site activities and can arrange a multitude of off-site activities for guests. Rates include one game drive or bush walk per day. For off-site activities, there are some great packages to suit every requirement, but everything is dependent on availability.

Off-site attractions include:

A day trip/safari into the Kruger National Park
Hot air ballooning trip over the Drakensberg
Big 5 safari game drives in the Manyeleti Reserve
The Hoedspruit Centre For Endangered Species
Panorama Route Tours
Jessica the hippo
Bush walk on Big 5 area
Visit to a wildlife rehabilitation centre
Helicopter flights
Quad biking
Zip-lining
Canyoning/kayaking

Wildlife Guernsey Nature Reserve occupies 400 hectare of prime bushveld terrain with varied ecosystems and habitats. Wooded savanna and bushveld punctuated by jackalberry, knobthorn, marula, and leadwood trees. Antelope, giraffe, buffalo, impala, klipspringer, kudu, zebra, and wildebeest are the most common residents.

Birding is also spectacular, and there are over 200 species of bird in the reserve, making it a great place for twitchers. Commonly seen species include the lilac-breasted roller, southern yellow-billed hornbill, bateleur eagle, tawny eagle, Wahlberg’s eagle, and rare species such as the Martial eagle.

Trails of Botswana: Iconic Botswana 4 Night Itinerary

TRAILS OF BOTSWANA

Iconic Botswana 4 Night Itinerary

FROM US$ – (Enquire for pricing)

This 4-night itinerary offers an introduction to two premier safari destinations: the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park. You’ll spend 2 nights in the heart of safari kingdom, where one focuses on water safaris and the other land based safaris. For safari goers who want an overview of iconic Botswana and don’t have much time on their hands, then our Iconic Botswana itinerary is a good choice. You’ll begin your adventure on a private island in the Okavango Delta’s dazzling waters, and end in the prestigious Chobe National Park in the world renown Savuti region. You’ll stay at Mboma Island Expeditions and Camp Savuti.

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4 Night Itinerary Breakdown:

2 nights Mboma Island Expeditions

2 Nights Camp Savuti

Day 1: Maun to Mboma Island Expeditions

Light air transfer to Mboma Island Expeditions
Sunset boat cruise

You will arrive at Xakanaxa airstrip where your guide from Mboma Island Expeditions will pick you up in a game viewer. The light air transfer gives incredible aerial views of the Okavango Delta’s landscape below. From here, you can enjoy a 1.5 hour transfer through the Moremi Game Reserve and then jump aboard to enjoy the boat cruise through the Delta waterways to Mboma Island Expeditions. Arrive to welcome drinks, followed by a brieﬁng by the camp’s host before being shown to your classic canvas safari tent under the trees. After some refreshments, you’ll depart for a memorable sunset boat cruise on the open waters of the Okavango Delta.

Enjoy the Delta’s beauty and birdlife for a couple of hours before returning to camp for dinner and your ﬁrst night at Mboma Island Expeditions.

Day 2: Mboma Island Expeditions

Morning mokoro or game drive
Afternoon boat cruise

You’ll receive an early wake up call followed by coffee and breakfast around the campﬁre. After breakfast, you will depart on a boat cruise until you reach Mboma Boat Station where you will start your mokoro or game drive. Remember your camera and sun block, as you will be out on the activity until late morning.

Upon returning to camp, you are welcome to have a warm bucket shower and refresh before lunch is served in the dining tent. Sit down and enjoy a good meal, followed by an afternoon siesta, or a spot of birdwatching on the island.

High tea is served later in the afternoon and a sunset boat cruise complete with sundowners awaits to end the day. After your sunset cruise, return to camp to enjoy the campﬁre and a 3-course dinner before tuning in for your last night on Mboma Island Expeditions.

Day 3: Mboma Island Expeditions to Camp Savuti

Light air transfer from Mboma Island Expeditions into Camp Savuti
Sunset game drive in Savuti

Wake up early to coffee and breakfast in the dining tent on Mboma Island Expeditions before departing the Delta and heading for the predator-rich Savuti region in the Chobe National Park. After breakfast, you’re back out on the water for a boat cruise transfer from Mboma Island Expeditions to the airstrip to connect with your light air transfer to Savuti.

Upon arrival at Savuti Airstrip in Chobe National Park, your Camp Savuti guide will be waiting to meet you. You will then enjoy a 30-minute transfer through the park to Camp Savuti, located on the banks of the Savuti Channel. Receive a warm welcome and a brieﬁng from your host before having lunch and settling in to your tented room.

Later on in the afternoon you can enjoy a sunset game drive including a sundowner stop at a designated stretch point in the park, where you take in the splendour of the world famous famous Savuti region! Head back to camp and refresh before dinner.

Day 4: Camp Savuti

Morning game drive
Afternoon game drive with sundowners

You’ll receive an early morning wake up call followed by a quick continental breakfast and coffee before departing on morning game drive. Enjoy a lengthy game drive around the Savuti Marsh, and stop for coffee and rusks at a stretch point in the park. Return to camp and enjoy a hearty lunch before relaxing at the main area of the camp or the view from your private deck.

High tea is served at the camp later in the afternoon, and is followed by an afternoon game drive complete with sundowners in the bush. As the sun sets, return to camp and enjoy the open-air campﬁre and special dinner out on the deck under the stars.

Day 5: Camp Savuti to Maun/Kasane

Transfer to Savuti Airstrip
Light air transfer to Maun/Kasane

On the last morning of your safari you will receive a wake up call followed by breakfast and coffee at the lodge before departing. Enjoy the last 30 minute transfer to the Savuti Airstrip where you will connect with your light air transfer to Maun/Kasane. During your road and air transfer be sure to look out for wildlife en route.

Stay at Boteti for a Slice of the REAL Botswana

Boteti is the perfect stopover destination to decompress before or after a jam-packed safari experience through Botswana’s wild corners. Located just outside of Maun (20 – 45 minutes dependent on traffic and cattle herds), Boteti Tented Camp sits on the banks of the perennial Boteti river which is home to abundant hippos, elephants, and crocodiles.

The rustic tented camp offers insight into a less-tourist orientated way of life, and combines a bit of local flavour with a taste of the safari lifestyle. The location was chosen because the owner grew up in the neighbouring community, and wanted to give back to his surrounds. Everything at Boteti is locally sourced, and every effort is made to support community initiatives. When you stay at Boteti, you choose to travel with purpose. Our portfolio manager, Chelsea Lee, visited Boteti to check out the lay of the land.

What type of traveller would suit Boteti?

Boteti is a fenced off camp surrounded by the local community villages, and offers a slow pace of life. If that sounds like your kind of vibe, then Boteti is just the ticket.

Boteti Tented Camp would suit these kinds of travellers:

Adventurous travellers who want to gain insight into a more local way of life and combine it with tourist-orientated safari experiences. Those who don’t mind quintessential Botswana visuals of hippos and crocs on the river, while herds of goats plod past the river banks.

Keen birders who want to spot lifers and array of local specials. There are a number of waders and passerines to spot in the area, which include everything from bee-eaters, to goliath herons, wattled cranes and terns. The birding crowd are often Boteti’s most popular repeat guests.

Second time visitors who have done the major safari tourist circuit, and crave a little something different. Boteti is perfectly place to enjoy cultural experiences in Maun, the arts and crafts scene, and unique safari activities.

Planet conscious safari-goers can rest in the knowledge that Boteti only uses locally sourced produce from the surrounding farms such as milk, cheese, and yoghurt. Also, fresh fish is sourced from the Okavango Delta’s waters. Boteti also puts money back into numerous community initiatives.

What do you love about the safari experience at Boteti?

I love that if you stay for 4 days you get to experience all of the activities on offer. There’s also a fantastic 2-hour mokoro trip upon arrival at camp. This gives you a taster of what’s to come.

On a camp level, there is a viewing platform overlooking the Boteti River which is a quiet spot to observe the birdlife. They’re currently in the process of building a cocktail and dining area around the riverfront area, which will provide front row seats to the birding and hippo action.

Describe your favourite part of camp life.

Overall, it was probably the guiding. I had a local guide called Relax who was informative, entertaining, and introduced me to some interesting facts about the surrounding vegetation. He even opened up a fruit from a boabab tree, which is where cream of tartar originates. Special mention needs to go to Boteti’s staff, who are so warm and welcoming – particularly the camp manager and chef. Another highlight was the cultural boma dinner that was accompanied by traditional singing and dancing.

What is the food like?

The chef prepares basic, traditional fare that’s tasty and curated to suit various dietary requirements. Meals are rustic but filling, and include everything from hot plated meals to traditional fare. We had leek soup, lamb chops with basmati rice, Okavango fish, and the nicest packed lunch (curried chicken pasta) for our lengthy safari day trip.

People should know…

This is not your usual safari experience, it’s more a local way of life combining it with a wilderness experience. If you’ve missed out on something during your epic safari adventure, you can do this during your time at Boteti where longer stays actually include day trips.

Contact reservations@sundestinations.co.za to add Boteti Tented Camp to your Botswana itinerary.

African Retreats: Our Top 6 Reasons to Love Kruger Cliffs

Our latest blog from our sister company, African Retreats, shines a spotlight on the ultra-cool Kruger Cliffs Lodge, an idyllic self-catering destination in the Greater Kruger close to the foothills of the Drakensberg. Kruger Cliffs has elevated the self-catering experience to new heights, and brings a unique style of cool to affordable Kruger safari lodges. Owners Jochen and Mira have guided and managed a variety of safari camps and lodges, so they certainly know what guests need from a safari experience. Oh, and they also bring a bit of European flair to their awesome lodge.

There are a multitude of reasons to love Kruger Cliffs, but these are our top 6.

Private plunge pools

It’s not often that self-catering cottages have their own private plunge pool, let alone one with views of the looming Drakensberg Mountain range. The pools are located on an elevated decking area, and come complete with deck chairs and poolside amenities. The depth of each of the pools is roughly shoulder height, and has the perfect small seating area in the pool that’s also ideal for kids to play. For couples, we highly recommend cracking open a bottle of bubbles while immersed in the warm waters of your exclusive plunge pool.

Elevated position overlooking the mountains

Jochen and Mira carefully selected the position for their lodge, which enjoys an incredible aspect just beneath Mariepskop. Views of the Drakensberg Mountains fill the frame of your bedroom window, allowing for some of the Lowveld’s most incredible views. Kruger Cliffs borders the Blyde River Canyon Reserve, and is close to many of the Big 5 reserves. Cottages were built specifically so that guests could enjoy uninterrupted views of the Lowveld’s revered natural landscapes.

Cottages have outdoor showers

Each cottage has an expansive walk-in indoor shower, and lush bathrooms. But it’s the outdoor rain showers that add a whimsical touch to Kruger Cliffs. The quirky outdoor showers are made with buckets, and offer an unusual way to enjoy the refreshing outdoors. Listen to the chorus of birdsong while the hot water soothes your body. Showering outdoors is nothing short of invigorating and inviting!

Expansive private decks with BBQ facilities

The Kruger Cliffs cottages are kitted out for entertainment and experiencing the true bushveld lifestyle. Inside each cottage there are dining tables and chairs located close to a kitchen counter. If the weather turns, guests then have the option of dining indoors. But, during the balmy blissful days, the best place to dine is outdoors where there’s an alfresco dining area complete with BBQ. Whether you choose indoor or outdoor dining, you’ll be please to know that both have superb views of the mountains.

A flexible safari experience

As well as offering luxury self-catering accommodation in the Greater Kruger, Kruger Cliffs also offers an array of safaris and wilderness activities. If a fuss-free, flexible safari experience is your vibe then Jochen and Mira would love to host you. From helicopter trips to day trips into Kruger, hiking, and hot air balloon rides, Kruger Cliffs has something for everyone.

Spacious cottages

If we haven’t already mentioned it, the cottages at Kruger Cliffs are ultra-spacious. Cottages have kitchenettes, indoor and outdoor dining area, indoor and outdoor showers, living rooms with sleeper couches, king size beds.

What’s not to love about Kruger Cliffs?

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