An Okavango Delta Safari

An Okavango Delta safari opens up a world of opportunity to spot wildlife rarities while enjoying iconic water safari activities such as boating and mokoro. Most safari goers choose to safari in the Okavango Delta because it’s a UNESCO world heritage site that’s pristine, untouched and boasts unsurpassed game viewing opportunities. Most people are drawn to the area because of its remarkable beauty, geography and sublime places to stay. You cannot visit Botswana without a stop in the Okavango Delta.

Click here to book your Okavango Delta safari with Sun Destinations

The Okavango Delta was formed roughly 60,000 years ago from a result of tectonic plate movement that stopped the flow of the Okavango River. It’s the world’s largest inland delta and offers a mosaic of lagoons, permanent swamps, seasonally flooded grasslands, waterways and islands. The Okavango “sinks” into a unique landscape characterised by typical arid Kalahari vegetation. This inland Delta system is a sanctuary and oasis for a wealth of wildlife that congregate on the banks and on every bend in this oasis. For birders, an Okavango Delta safari is a must.

The concentrations of waders, birds of prey and passerines on the banks of the channel is remarkable. There are heronries, nests and constant birdsong. Within the Moremi Game Reserve and Khwai region, this is where you’ll discover leopard, lion, and African wild dogs. Antelope like red lechwe, waterbuck, sitatunga (an Okavango Delta special), elephants, giraffe and zebra are commonly spotted. Birds to spot include African fish eagle, slaty egret, wattled crane and African skimmer, amongst others.

Activities on an Okavango Delta Safari

The Delta offers a combination of both land and water-based safari experiences. Here are a few of our favourites:

Mokoro: Traditionally, mokoros were constructed from the trunk of a Kigelia (sausage) tree and used for local transport across the myriad of waterways. In an effort to conserve the trees, mokoros are now made from other materials such as fibreglass. The canoe-like vessel is manually “driven” through the channels by a poler. A guided mokoro trip is now a sought-after activity in Botswana.
Boating: Boating offers a fantastic way of spotting wildlife on the reed-lined banks of the Delta’s open waterways. These small motorised boats speed through the waterways, providing plenty of opportunity to see wildlife. They’re too big to navigate the narrow channels, which are usually reserved for mokoro adventures.
Game drives: Game drives typically take place in the Moremi Game Reserve, a protected area that combines the best of dry savannah and mosaic of waterways. The Moremi is home to wild dogs, the Big 5 and a plethora of birdlife.
Walking tours: Guided walking tours offer an introduction

Okavango Delta Safari Accommodation

Looking for the ultimate Okavango Delta safari accommodation? We have just the place—Mboma Island Expeditions. The Okavango Delta offers numerous accommodation options, ranging from comfortable to classic tented camps and safari lodges. Most of them are situated in remote locations on the fringes of waterways, islands or on the outskirts of the Moremi.

We love Mboma for your Okavango Delta safari accommodation because it offers an authentic place to stay and it’s eco-friendly. Mboma is mobile camping with expansive Meru-style tents fully-kitted with beds, ensuite bathrooms, wardrobes and an outdoor seating area. Located on the edge of the game rich Moremi Game Reserve at the meeting point of the Delta’s waterways and the unique Moremi savannah, Mboma is nothing short of magical.

Mboma Island Expeditions offers:

5 light Meru-style canvas tents equipped with twin beds and ensuite, open-air bathrooms
Exquisite location in a well-known wildlife hotspot and a protected part of the famed Okavango Delta
Reduced carbon footprint – everything about camp is eco-friendly
Best of land based and water safaris
Unfenced camp with wildlife free to roam freely throughout.

Botswana Safari Tours

Interested in combining your Okavango Delta with other popular safari destinations in Botswana? Then choose from our range of Botswana safari tours and Okavango Delta tours.

4 Night – ICONIC BOTSWANA From US $3020
4 Night – CLASSIC DELTA From US $3140
4 Night – ULTIMATE SAFARI From US $3740
5 Night – DISCOVERING BOTSWANA From US $3920
6 Night – BLISSFUL BOTSWANA From US $4520
6 Night – SAFARI SERENITY From US $4800
8 Night – RIVERSIDE EXPLORER From US $5550
10 Night – BEST OF BOTSWANA From US $6970

We Answer Your Okavango Delta Safari FAQs

Thinking about an Okavango Delta safari but have some FAQs before embarking on this journey of a lifetime? Don’t worry, our team is here to assist! The Okavango Delta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site sprawling across the remote and pristine Kalahari basin of Botswana; and is one of the most coveted safari destinations in Africa. Planning for this safari isn’t a last-minute affair; it requires careful preparation. Our crown jewel in the Okavango Delta is Mboma Island Expeditions, offering a magical experience for adventurous souls seeking both land and water-based safari experiences.

To help you plan your journey, we’ve scoured the web for 10 of the best and most popular Okavango Delta safari FAQs.

Where is the Okavango Delta and how was it formed?

The Okavango Delta is the world’s largest inland delta (alluvial fan) located in the western region of Botswana, sprawling across 16,000 sq. km of land—it was formed an estimated 60,000 years ago. The source of the Okavango Delta sits in the Angolan Highlands, home to numerous smaller tributaries (principally Cuito and Cubango) that converge on Angola’s border to form the Okavango River. Tectonic plate movement stopped the flowing, causing the mass of water to drain into the landscape.

Comprising swamps, lagoons, seasonally flooded grasslands, riparian forest and woodlands, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit. Instead of flowing into the sea, this inland delta’s waters are soaked up by the arid desert sands of the Kalahari Basin. The landscapes shifts during the seasons, making it one of the most ecologically diverse areas in Africa. It is the ultimate oasis offering the best of both land and water based game viewing.

How do I get there?

Known as the gateway to the Okavango Delta, Maun is the closest international airport. From here they either arrange a smaller charter flight to their camp/lodge that lands at a small bushveld airstrip, road transfer or boat transfer. Most Okavango camps and lodges are remote, requiring either a combination of flying and boating or a road transfer followed by boating, especially if you’re staying on one of the islands.

Click here to find out how you would get to Mboma Island Expeditions

Can I do game drives in the Okavango Delta?

Yes. The area is quite aquatic nature, which is why only the experienced conduct their own self-drives. Most guests go on guided game drives with their camp/lodge, which usually traverse their own private concessions and regions within the Moremi Game Reserve. The Moremi is where Mboma Island Expeditions conducts their game drives.

Is the Okavango Delta expensive?

Yes, but for good reason. It’s remote, secluded, pristine and completely uncrowded. Botswana has a low impact high cost model, where there’s a limit to the number of guests and camps within areas; ensuring the Okavango Delta remains pristine.

The most affordable and immersive way of experiencing the Delta is to opt for a luxury glamping mobile safari like Mboma Island Expeditions.

What is the best time of year for an Okavango Delta safari?

Typically, the Delta has three distinct seasons: low, green and peak season. Peak season is from June to October. This is when the rains subside and the channels/lagoons are full – and it’s easier to spot wildlife. December to March is low season, where you’ll experience lush landscapes and incredible birding. It’s also the season to see the zebra migration. Green or shoulder season is when wildlife like impala and other antelope give birth.

What wildlife can I see in the Okavango Delta?

Red lechwe, sitatunga, slaty egret, puku and African open bill are just a few of the rarities to look out for while in the Okavango Delta. There are 500 species of bird, over 80 species of fish, 160 mammal species – including a wealth of big cats. The Okavango Delta boasts high concentrations of wildlife, in particular elephants.

What is the weather like in the Okavango Delta?

It depends on the season. Summers are extremely hot and humid, while winters can be cold. Mornings are usually crisp, and it gets hot during the day. While boating, you’ll feel the cold breeze off the water, so pack warm clothes. Generally, you can expect a warm/hot climate year-round.

What accommodations are available in the Okavango Delta?

From high end to classic camps and mobile camps, the Okavango Delta offers a range of accommodations, most of which have a minimal impact on the environment. Mboma Island Expeditions is a mobile safari camp with expansive Meru-style tents, kitted out with all the creature comforts of home. The entire camp is set-up just before guests arrive.

How far in advance do I need to book my safari to the Okavango Delta?

Because Mboma Island Expeditions is an eco-aware, mobile camp with a small number of guests and is closed from December to March, you’ll need to book in advance.

What is a mokoro?

A mokoro is an ancient mode of water transport that takes the shape of a canoe. In days gone by, a traditional mokoro was carved out of a Kigelia (sausage tree) or Ebony tree trunk. These vessels were used to carry goods across narrow channels and waterways by poling slowly through the waters (was this the start of stand-up paddle boarding??!). To conserve the trees, modern mokoros are made from fibreglass and other materials.

We can arrange other camps as add-ons to Mboma, that form part of carefully curated Botswana itineraries.

Your Monthly Dose of Kruger Wildlife

It’s about high time we filled out your prescription and administered your monthly dose of wildlife, a theme we hope to continue over the next few months. After all, nature is the finest therapy! As we slowly migrate into the peak safari season, we’re noticing a shift in bushveld colours and increase in predator sightings. Giant herbivore herds are also appearing in dense concentrations, delighting onlookers with their often comical behaviours’. Our content channels are buzzing with reports of big cats, wild dogs, elephants in camp, and side-striped jackals hooting and howling on camp perimeters. There was also a real showstopper sighting of a pangolin.

Chacma Bush Camp, Maseke

Local lion legends, the Grietjie Pride have become quite comfortable on Chacma’s traverse. If you recall, a few weeks ago this hungry pride was seen gorging on a buffalo kill. Since then, they’ve been spotted on a regular basis engaging in very lion-like behaviours. It’s incredible to see sightings of this pride escalating, indicating that they’re happy with the prey and water sources on offer in the reserve.

On 24 March, Chacma’s guides were trundling down the jeep track when they stumbled across the pride sprawled across the road. Lions are known to sleep for up to 20 hours during the heat day, which meant our talented guides had to navigate their way around the flat cats. In total there were 4 sub-adult and two lionesses from the pride showing off for the camera.

Just when you thought things couldn’t get more awe-inspiring, camp manager Karen sends through yet another incredible safari update…A lone male African wild dog appeared at the waterhole in front of camp to replenish his thirst! There are only four African wild dogs that come into this area of Chacma, marking this as a rare occurrence.

Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside, Sabie

We’ll never tire of featuring Umkumbe’s remarkable lion and leopard sightings. The Sabie Game Reserve is the heart and soul of predator activity, with a biodiverse landscape that provides abundant easy meals, drainage lines and riverbeds for hiding cubs, and easy access to water during the drier winter months. It’s a haven for predators.

Here’s a summary of the sightings enjoyed over the past few weeks:

The Kambula Pride of lions, together with their cubs, were spotted on a warthog kill
Again the Kambula Pride was spotted but this time with the N’waswitshaka male
The team enjoyed another lion sighting of the Kambula Breakaways
A rare sighting of a hyena darting through a crash of rhino, provided a bit of game viewing entertainment for everyone
The guiding team reported an endearing sighting of a huge elephant herd with a really young calf feasting and feeding on greens
A sighting that really stood out was that of Ntsumi the leopard walking in front of the lodge
In other Umkumbe news, Ndzanzeni the leopard was seen casually walking down the road toward the vehicle, not flinching as it strutted past.

nThambo Tree Camp and Africa on Foot, Klaserie

I know what you’re thinking: Vuyela Pride of lions. But what if I said Western Pride of lions? April Fools’ Day is long gone, so this isn’t a joke. For the second time in a couple of months, a small pride of lions from the western area have wandered across into Vuyela turf around Africa on Foot and nThambo Tree Camp. Some believe these are breakaways from the Sark Pride. Could this breakaway pride cause trouble for the Vuyelas? We’re not sure yet—but so far, so good.

Right…back to the Vuyela Pride of lions. They were spotted feasting on a zebra carcass just recently and a kudu kill a few weeks ago together with their cubs. From gorging on kills to lying across the road and sharing affectionate moments, the Klaserie team frequently spot the Vuyelas engaging in typical lion behaviour.

Iconic guide JD, Calvin and the team were leading a group at Africa on Foot when they spotted yet another apex predator: African wild dogs! The dogs were seen in full course mode chasing after an impala on both game drives and walking safari. Also, the team enjoyed a magnificent sighting of a leopard, buffalo, and elephants frequenting nThambo Tree Camp’s swimming pool.

Two of the more unique sightings included that of the shy Schlegel’s blind snake (Africa’s largest blind snake), white rhino and….a PANGOLIN!

#GuestSafariFeedback: Delving into the World of Brenda Kerr

We’re delighted to unveil today’s #GuestSafariFeedback article, a much-anticipated guest-centric blog piece where we interview the dynamic Brenda Kerr. Brenda is a cherished member of our online community and is known for her thoughtful interactions and insightful feedback across our social channels. With her extensive experience exploring our camps, Brenda has evolved into a trusted on-the-ground expert, offering invaluable insights from a guest’s viewpoint.

We’re simply smitten by Brenda and her dedicated fandom. When our team discovered her talent as a children’s book author, it only added another layer of intrigue. You might notice that she mentions her son Rogan in her answers—he is none other than Roaming Media, a sought-after wildlife content creator, videographer and photographer. Anyway, let’s get back to Brenda.

Without delay, let’s delve into the world of BRENDA.

Brenda, you’re one of our biggest fans! Which of the camps in our portfolio have you visited?

I have been to Chacma twice, Nambu once, Nthambo Tree Camp twice and Africa on Foot three times.

Which of the “unvisited” camps in our portfolio do you have your sights set on?

Well … any and all! I would absolutely love to visit the Botswana camps.

Please list one wildlife sighting from each camp that stood out for you.

It’s always the cats for me! A very special encounter with Nyaleti (?) on our last trip to Nthambo. I think we spent close to an hour with her, close up and personal. She really showed off. Rogan and I had a very brief glimpse of her crossing the drainage with two cubs on a later visit to Africa on Foot. At least we thought it was her! Another favourite sighting was when Rogan and I sat at sunset with a big male lion near Africa on Foot, watching him disdainfully ignore us as he chilled in the last rays of the sun. He slowly got up and gave us a fabulous chorus of sunset roars!

I am also really very happy to have been able to get up close to several resident white rhino in the Klaserie. As you know this is a particular passion of mine. At Chacma I have loved sitting by the pool overlooking the waterhole and watching the elephant come to drink. Such a peaceful and unique experience.

Nambu was a treat! We finally saw wild dogs—a first for me and also had several fab sightings of Ezulwini (not sure of his name)—but a magnificent old BIG tusker. Such a relaxed fellow. He really helped me get over my fear of being too close to ellies!

Tell us about an aspect of the safari experience that tourists don’t read about in guidebooks.

No-one can imagine the soul replenishing feeling that a safari experience gifts you. Waking to the joyous sound of bird song encouraging you to get up and go, that early morning coffee laced with Amarula on the back of a game drive vehicle warming you up as you watch the sunrise over a misty waterhole, and the adrenalin rush of seeing your first leopard/lion/wild dog. Then, there’s the peaceful calmness of observing a breeding herd of ellies as they rumble gently to each other and silently graze their way through the brush, only the cracking of branches giving their location away. Of course, the enthusiastic welcome from camp staff every time you return to the lodge makes you feel like royalty, while boma fires and shared stories after a fabulous evening meal provides connection. And finally, going to sleep with a chorus of insects lulling you into oblivion. There just is nothing to compare with a visit to these wild places.

What predator do you most enjoy spotting on safari, and which “small” creature holds a special place in your heart?

That’s a hard one! I think a leopard, but lion, wild dogs, hyenas—they all hold charm. I would love to see a wild cat, but I also really enjoy seeing a honey badger! My favorite small creature is probably an elephant shrew!

What can our guests expect from the safari experience, over and above the usual safari activities?

Sun Destinations offers so much more than just a generic “safari experience”. Guests can personalise their visits, with private celebratory sundowner “picnics” for special occasions like anniversaries, birthdays etc. Fabulous game viewing from pool decks in all of the resorts, great meals and choice of cocktails etc served with a smile and lots of ice on hot days. Walking safaris for the brave from Africa of Foot. Comfortable rooms, beautifully furnished, all the facilities needed at hand(I particularly liked the portable siren next to my bed in case of an emergency!) The fact that these camps have limited guest numbers makes for a very pleasant, personal visit. Family groups are always catered for with consideration to other guests and transported separately on drives.

Tell us about yourself. Where did your passion for the wild begin?

I grew up in Zimbabwe, wild and free. As a little girl my Granny used to encourage me to look for the beauty in the ordinary, small, often overlooked plants and creatures. Africa is in my soul – its rich diversity is just so inspiring. I cannot imagine living anywhere else. There is still so much to explore and enjoy!

How has being immersed in nature during your safari experiences impacted your perspective on conservation?

I am passionate about conservation. From trees, to grasses, rhinos to antlions. The more I visit our nature reserves, and see the impact of human settlement and climate change, the more motivated I am to preserve, protect, and extend the wild spaces of our land. I believe that education is the most important factor in achieving these goals. Tourism is a hugely beneficial source of income for affected communities on the borders of our reserves, so giving them the knowledge and understanding of the importance of these spaces is key.

During your downtime at our camps and lodges, what do you do?

CHILL! I read, walk around the camp, watch the birds, follow snakes (!) to make sure they leave, wait in anticipation for the bats to disembark on their nightly adventures and swarm out of the bat box, swim, sleep. I just revel in being there and don’t want to miss a single minute.

And lastly…This one’s about you. What inspired your children’s book “Counting in Africa”?

Growing up in Zimbabwe, I developed a love of the open spaces and the bush, and the increase in poaching have all been motivators. I was surprised at the lack of knowledge our children have about the big and little five, so used this platform as a way of entertaining and educating at the same time. It has led to me being able to visit numerous schools in South Africa and Zimbabwe and share the importance of learning the truth about the waning numbers of wildlife in our continent, and being able to encourage children to participate actively in conservation efforts wherever they find them.

The Counting in Africa book is aimed primarily at children aged two to ten, but has appeal to parents and educators as well. It is also extremely well suited to the tourist industry as a memento of visits to the game reserves, and is a perfect, lightweight gift to take home to family and friends overseas. Will also appeal to expats who miss our beautiful continent and want to share their heritage with their families and friends. A great book for gift shops at lodges, for children to use and refer to on game drives.

I have a framed photo of a crash of rhino who I sat with in Kruger for a few peaceful minutes some years ago. It brought to mind the wonderful poem by Wendell Berry “The Peace of Wild Things”. I have adapted it for Africa and myself …

“When despair for the world grows in me, and I wake in the night at the least sound in fear of what my life and my children’s lives may be, I go and lie down where the wild rhino’s roam, and the great lions lie in the shade of the spreading marula trees. I come into the peace of wild things who do not tax their lives with forethought or grief. I come into the presence of still water. And I feel above me the day blind stars waiting with their light. For a time I rest within the grace of the world, and am free.”

BRENDA, THANK YOU FOR SPENDING TIME WITH US!

The Lodge Life at Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside

Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside cemented its position on the map for being a place to spot leopards, earning itself a reputation as being “leopard central”. Its location in the newly formed Sabie Game Reserve (previously part of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve), ensures guests are never short of, arguably, award-winning predator sightings. There is a high density of prey in the area, abundant drainage lines for cubs, and ready availability of water, which are all the “ingredients” needed to make predator populations thrive. The Sabie Game Reserve is centred around the confluence of the Sabie and Sand Rivers, and is a hotspot for a diverse array of species. Twice-daily guided game drives from the team at Umkumbe, along with optional bush walks, offer abundant opportunities to spot an array of species.

Amidst these exhilarating activities, the lodge offers moments of relaxation and downtime. Curious about how to make the most of your free time? Then read on to discover the array of on-site amenities and experiences at Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside.

A Safari Style Gym

The small gym at Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside has enough essential equipment for a satisfying workout. Fitness enthusiasts keen on maintaining their cardio fitness can make use of the treadmills, which offer a picturesque view of the lush lawns. It’s not unusual to spot a variety of wildlife such as bushbuck, vervet monkeys, and nyala grazing on the grass. In fact, one guest recently had the delightful experience of spotting an elephant while working out in the gym. A gym with these kinds of wilderness views? Count us in!

The Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside gym is open to all guests and provides an opportunity to burn off the delicious safari-style meals served during your stay. Unlike many lodges that lack exercise facilities, Umkumbe recognizes the importance for guests to stay active and energized while on safari.

The Safari Curio Shop

It’s always delightful to bring back a handmade curio from your vacation destination. Rather than hurrying through the airport’s duty-free shops, take your time exploring Umkumbe’s small yet jampacked curio shop. You’ll find everything from soft toys to accessories and locally crafted items available for purchase. Whether you’re looking to bring a piece of your safari back for loved ones or seeking a memento of your Kruger holiday, Umkumbe’s shop has something special for everyone.

Poolside and Viewing Deck

Umkumbe’s swimming pool is perfectly placed to take advantage of the views. The pool is placed in the centre of the wooden viewing deck and winding pathway, and flows to the edge of the deck. Both the poolside deck and pool directly look down onto the seasonal Sand River, an area that’s a major drawcard for buffalo, elephants and a variety of common species like nyala, impala and zebra. Guests frequently relax in the pool and soak up the sun while trying to spot wildlife. The deck area is adorned with sun loungers, while the expansive viewing deck is the ideal place to catch up with fellow travellers or connect with new friends. Get a coffee, a drink and game watch from the lodge.

Have you ever lazed around in a small swimming pool while staring at elephants? If you haven’t, you can at Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside!

Spa Treatments

While on safari, you’ll find plenty of time to relax. During your “lodge life” time, you can choose to engage in a gym session, hang out at the poolside or relax in the lounge. If you’re after a complete pamper session, Umkumbe can also arrange that for you. Your spa treatment sessions need to be prebooked with reservations and paid directly at camp. Make your safari both an adventure and an indulgence!

Lounge Area with Snooker Table

Why bother with pubs and clubs when you can enjoy a lounge area and snooker table during your safari adventure? Whether it’s daytime entertainment or a post-drinks session at the boma area, the lounge provides a perfect setting for a few rounds of games. If snooker or pool isn’t your preference, there’s also a suite of comfortable couches available for relaxation.

While on safari in the Sabie Game Reserve with Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside, you’ll find plenty of opportunity to enjoy the lodge life at Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside!

Our Top 5 Compelling Reasons to Choose Mboma Island Expeditions

Mboma Island Expeditions champions eco-friendly safaris in the Okavango Delta, seamlessly blending the best of both land and water-based game viewing. These are just two of Mboma’s major drawcards—there are a host of other standout features, which we’ll explore in this blog post. Owners Lindi and Chase have created an absolutely enchanting mobile camp where understated style meets a planet-conscious ethos. From location to sustainability, activities and wildlife; there are a wealth of compelling reasons to choose Mboma Island Expeditions for your next Okavango Delta safari.

Here are our top 5.

Champions of the eco-friendly Okavango Delta Safari

Sustainable safaris are sought-after by international tourists. People from around the world are realising the need to conserve the world’s pristine and revered places, so they seek the sublime spots that tread lightly on this earth. Mboma is a champion of eco-friendly safaris, and has truly established itself as a renowned eco-destination.

To recap one of our previous blog posts about Mboma’s eco-friendly status, here are our top 5 reasons why Mboma are leaders when it comes to sustainable safaris:

There is the sole use of solar-power throughout camp
Use of bucket showers and chemical eco-friendly toilets
Decor is in perfect harmony with the surrounds
Tents are constructed prior to guests arrival, and taken down when they leave
Food is locally sourced

Situated on the meeting point of the savanna and waterways

Mboma’s location is both surreal and unreal. When visiting Botswana, safari-goers often combine an iconic savanna-style safari with a quick sojourn on a Delta island. Here’s where Mboma takes centre stage. Located on the meeting point of the Moremi Game Reserve’s savanna floodplains and the crystalline waters of the Delta, makes Mboma a sought-after destination. They’re quite literally at the tip of the famed game rich Moremi Game Reserve, giving them easy access to a wealth of safari activities. It goes without saying that birding is excellent and game viewing superlative.

Water and land based game viewing activities

A safari destination that offers both land an water based safari activities is major win in our books. Because Moremi’s ecosystem is so diverse, the team at Mboma have ensured that all aspects of safaris are covered, from mokoro to boating and game drives. Game viewing from camp is also exceptional. Mboma overlooks the floodplains of the Okavango Delta, and is surrounded by fan palms, jackleberry and sausage trees, and the fascinating waterways of the Godikwe Lagoon. When you’re not soaking up the splendour of camp life, you’ll be out there in the wild, exploring with your dedicated safari guide.

Activities include:

Boating: motorised boats will take you through the narrow papyrus lined channels of the Delta and the lagoons.
Traditional mokoro trips: experience the true Botswana activity, a mokoro trip. An experienced Poler will guide you gently through the channels, where you are encouraged to look closely in the dense reeds where it’s possible to see the shy sitatunga, lechwe and elephants.
Game drives: game drives take place in the famed Moremi Game Reserve, a haven for predators, African wild dogs, cheetah and black rhino. Of course, there are over 500 species of wildlife in the Moremi to spot. You certainly won’t be short of incredible sightings while out on your guided game drive.

Exclusive access to wildlife hotspots

Mboma Island Expeditions can access remote and exclusive areas of the Okavango Delta, away from larger tourist crowds, ensuring a more private safari adventure. Guides do traverse through popular game-rich areas of the Moremi, but Mboma’s remote location lends itself to some intense and immersive game viewing moments. How do you know your location is remote? Look at the “road” to getting there! The more remote a safari destination, the better access to game viewing opportunities and untouched beauty.

Getting to Mboma Island Expeditions requires a few stops. Fly-ins are picked up the bushveld airstrip of Xakanaxa and 4×4 self-drivers are to meet at Mboma Boat Station. From the boat station it’s about an hour to PARADISE! Don’t be surprised to hear hippos honking, ellies in camp, African fish eagles soaring above and more.

It’s glamping, redefined

Our fifth and final reason to choose Mboma Island Expeditions, is simply because “it’s cool”. It’s a level up from glamping – each tent is well-appointed with beautiful pieces of furniture, luggage space, carpets, seating areas and en suite bathrooms. It’s a slice of glamping luxury in the middle of an absolute wildlife haven. The Meru-style tents provide an opportunity for you to experience a true explorer’s way of life.

Big Cats, Big Stories

It’s Big Cat Roundup Day, a day that we’ve set aside to share a few momentous occasions with our ferocious felines. This is a big story day, where we won’t be sharing images of lions lying around. Today is a bigger and better day, where we celebrate cats doing what they do best: taking down prey, nurturing cubs, stalking, and devouring their meals in the most gluttonous fashion. We reached out to our guides across all camps and collated the updates from our Kruger side. Here are the more unique sightings over the past month.

Loving Lions, Ferocious Feeders

Location: Africa on Foot | nThambo Tree Camp

Having been rewarded with both leopard and lion sightings over the past month, the Klaserie is really beginning to shine as a big cat paradise. The recent batch of Vuyela Pride lion cubs is absolutely thriving in their environment, looking well-fed and healthy. When cubs are born, the mother stashes them in a secret spot to nurse. Once they reach six weeks, they are introduced to the rest of the pride. These cubs are now joining the rest of the pride at the ‘dinner table’, having grown from strength to strength

Here is a list of the crazy antics from our lions and leopards:

The Vuyela Pride took down THREE buffalo and spent days feasting on the carcasses
As if the pride isn’t big enough, a Vuyela male and female were caught mating!
In an interesting turn of events, five DIFFERENT lionesses were spotted on the Klaserie traverse. They have been identified as the Sark Pride. They are the natal pride of the Vuyela males.
The Sark Pride was spotted again, this time feasting on a zebra kill.
Two leopard cubs were spotted stuck in a tree, one was balancing on a thin branch! Hyenas were circling below, trapping the cats up above.

Setting aside their playful antics and aggressive take downs, we were fortunate to receive a captivating collection of photographs from Stew Nolan, who skillfully captured our lions in a few endearing moments. From intimate mating scenes to heartwarming moments, his images beautifully reveal the essence of lion behavior.

Lost Lioness, Clever Cat

Location: Chacma Bush Camp

This might not be a “big story”, but it deserves to be called out in today’s blog post. When we’re traversing crunchy khaki bushveld and travelling down unchartered dusty roads, it’s pretty easy to get lost. That’s why lodge signage is always a good thing. We didn’t quite expect one of our top Apex predators to display the capacity to read when lost! These two images were certainly taken in the right place, at the right time.

In more news from Chacma Bush Camp recently spotted the Grietjie Pride of lions gorging on a buffalo kill, with their cubs in tow. There was a clear display of hierarchy at the food table when Karen snapped these images. The lion sightings at Chacma have certainly escalated over the past few months, indicating that the local prides of the area are finding abundant prey and water sources on Chacma’s traverse.

Leopard Looks, Friendly Felines

Location: Nyala Safari Lodge

Nyala Safari Lodge is certainly in the heart of big cat territory in the Greater Kruger’s Balule Nature Reserve. Camp manager, Dave, sent through these incredible images of their recent cat sightings. The images that impressed us the most, were the ones of the leopard and her cub. Their affectionate moments and bond is evident in these pictures. Leopardesses are great mothers and usually nurture their cubs until the age of two, teaching them independence and how to thrive in the wild. After cubs separate from their mother, they typically linger near the edges of her territory and frequently cross over.

Looking for the ultimate Kruger safari where the focus is on spotting big cats in a natural environment? Let the Sun Destinations team arrange the perfect safari in Africa for you. Our Kruger camps and lodges are all located in private Big 5 reserves.

Our 2024 Kruger Itineraries

The Sun Destinations portfolio offers a myriad of Kruger camps and lodges located in game-rich private reserves. From understated luxury at Nambu Camp to intrepid walking adventures at Africa on Foot and magic moments in treehouses; our Kruger circuit has something for every type of safari-goer. Typically, we don’t formulate itineraries, but we’ve developed some recommended packages to assist you in combining the ideal camps. Choosing a single destination in Kruger can be challenging, so we’ve paired up a few for you. If you’re an adventurous soul who craves an immersive experience but also enjoys luxury experiences, then we have the perfect package for you! For those yearning to truly sync with the enchanting Kruger bushveld, we’ve crafted an exclusive package that promises an all encompassing experience. Elevate your journey and seize the opportunity for an extraordinary adventure with our enticing packages—the safari lifestyle awaits!

Don’t know where to start when it comes to planning your Kruger safari? Then email us at reservations@sundestinations.co.za to help you plan.

4 Nights – Safari Elegance from R 25320

You deserve an elegant safari experience that has a certain romantic charm. You’ll spend two nights in a treehouse-style wooden chalet on stilts at nThambo Tree Camp and two nights on the banks of the Mohlabetsi River at Nyala Safari Lodge. The focus here is on the lodge experience and the twice-daily game drives in predator-rich reserves.

4 Nights – Wildlife Wonders from R 22470

Spend two nights at Africa on Foot in the famed Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, where mornings will start with a professionally guided walk and finish with a sundowner game drive. Your last two nights will be at the charming Chacma Bush Camp overlooking a thriving waterhole. Chacma is where guests relax around the pool while watching elephants and buffalo in the waters below.

4 Nights – Sunset Safari from R 19280

This four night itinerary is perfect for leopard fans who enjoy luxury. You’ll spend two nights at Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside in the Sabie Game Reserve (Leopard country), which is located on the banks of the seasonal Sand River. Your last two nights will be at the sublime Nambu Camp in the Olifants West Nature Reserve, a well-appointed camp elevated above the landscape.

6 Nights – Kruger Explorer from R 36650

Stay at Umkumbe, Nyala and Chacma for 6 nights and explore romantic, adventurous, and authentic places. At both Nyala and Umkumbe you can enjoy the riverfront location, while Chacma offers unforgettable moments at the in-camp waterhole. These three camps are located in contrasting regions within the Kruger and all offer something unique.

6 Nights – Wilderness Explorer from R 26375

Immerse yourself in a 3-night guided walking trail in the Kruger and finish off with a tranquil stay at Nambu Camp. These guided trails offer an immersive experience in the wild, where you’ll learn about the smaller things in the wild. Nambu is an incredible way to finish off your stay, as it offers a have of luxury elevated above the landscape.

8 Nights – Ultimate Big 5 Safari From R 44600

This ultimate safari experience affords ample opportunity for guests to view predators, birds and all the small creatures in the wild. You’ll spend equal amount of time at Umkumbe, nThambo, Nyala and Nambu. Experience the romance of a treehouse in the Klaserie, the iconic Umkumbe on the banks of the river, the sublime Nambu Camp, and the sophisticated Nyala.

8 Nights – Kruger Kaleidoscope from R 47010

Experience game drives and morning walks when you stay at Umkumbe, Africa on Foot, Nyala, and Chacma. This adventurous itinerary is a great combination of simple luxury and authenticity. It offers the full spectrum of safari experiences – not to be missed!

About The Camps and Lodges Featured in Our Kruger Itineraries

Africa on Foot

Set in the sought-after Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, Africa on Foot is the pioneer of the morning walking safari. This relaxed and comfortable camp offers accommodations in thatched rondawels with basic amenities. On-site you’ll find an adventurous and lofty treehouse for overnight stays, two swimming pools and an iconic boma. Mornings start with a walking safari and your day ends with an afternoon/evening game drive. It’s here where you can get to know the famous lion prides of the area.

Africa on Foot Wilderness Trails

Because of the success of the morning walking safari at Africa on Foot, the owners decided to open an extended walking trails camp. Africa on Foot Wilderness Trails is set in a beautiful part of the Greater Kruger in the Maseke Game Reserve, a Big 5 area with boulder-strewn landscapes and outcrops. Trails is a 3-day adventure where you overnight in dome shaped tents in a different spot each night. Walks are guided and there’s no set-up from your side required. A complete Kruger adventure for the active at heart who crave an immersive safari experience.

nThambo Tree Camp

Africa on Foot’s sister camp, nThambo Tree Camp, is ideal for romantic couples seeking a unique stay in Big 5 territory. With just 5 wooden chalets on stilts, nThambo offers guests an opportunity to stay in luxury eco-friendly chalets with elevated views of the wilderness. The lounge, dining, bar and pool area all harmoniously combine to make a well-appointed open plan main area. Activities include two game drives a day and the opportunity to observe the regular herds of elephants that traipse down to the camp’s swimming pool.

Chacma Bush Camp

Situated in the Maseke Balule Game Reserve, charming Chacma Bush Camp is an intimate camp built on the fringe of a small waterhole. Famed for its incredible in camp sightings, Chacma is known as a mini safari paradise in the Greater Kruger. With just three thatch and stone chalets, Chacma holds great appeal for the more discerning traveller. Activities include two game drives per day. From the swimming pool to the dining area, Chacma boasts a number of idyllic relaxation spots.

Nambu Camp

Elevated above the landscape of the Olifants West Nature Reserve, sits the sophisticated yet understated Nambu Camp. Rooms are fresh, minimal and have all the luxurious of home. Expect expertly crafted meals and some of the best guiding in Kruger. You can expect two game drives a day complete with sundowner and coffee stops. Nambu’s abundant repeat guests are testament to its reputation.

Nyala Safari Lodge

Resting comfortably on the banks of the seasonal Mohlabetsi River in the Greater Kruger’s Balule Nature Reserve sits the inimitable Nyala Safari Lodge. Distinct in design, this 5-bedroomed lodge offers thatched accommodation in an iconic rondawel style, an archetype of Kruger accommodation. The lodge also has a wrap-around viewing deck mimicking the curves of the river, and runs the full length of the lodge. On-site there’s a swimming pool, expansive wooden viewing deck and floodlit waterhole. This piece of safari heaven offers some memorable boma sessions, alongside some amazing game viewing opportunities.

Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside

Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside is a well-established lodge in the Sabie Reserve, an area known for its epic leopard sightings. Situated on the banks of the seasonal Sand River, Umkumbe is a longstanding favourite of guests. There are two game drives per day, optional bush walks and plenty of opportunity to spot wildlife from the comfort of your lodge. Accommodation options include suites or standard rooms, with some of the suites offering exquisite views of the river. The small splash pool and deck area is ideal for relaxing while observing the herds filtering down to the area in front.

Decoding virality: unravelling the success behind our Facebook lion video

On 6 November 2023, we posted a video of a lion roaring on the Africa on Foot Facebook page. It was a simple, yet fantastic close-up of a healthy lion belting out his best contact call roar. One of our guides captured the clip, intending to highlight the power of one of the dominant leaders within their local lion pride. We shared the video with the hopes of bringing attention to this legend of a lion. To our surprise, the video quickly gained widespread popularity, accumulating 4.3 million reach, 85.5k reactions, 5.6 shares, and 2.5k comments. Remarkably, this occurred organically in just a matter of days, without any marketing budget allocated for boosts and promotion.

Precise statistics elude social media experts when it comes to something going viral. Virality occurs when a post naturally reaches a vast audience, with engagements and shares skyrocketing in a brief period, often within hours. While there’s no exact science to achieving this fame-status, there are strategies to enhance the likelihood of your posts gaining widespread recognition.

Before the video went viral, we observed a consistent increase in views across the four videos we had previously shared. The substantial viewership, shares, and engagement on those videos served as a precursor to the eventual viral success of the latest video. For instance, we garnered 80.2k views for a lion video featuring contact calling, 415k views for buffalo swimming in a dam, and 527.4k views for lions lazing around a waterhole.

These earlier successes paved the way for a video to potentially go viral. Similar to the unpredictability of golf, where expertise doesn’t guarantee outcomes, the viral trajectory is uncertain. Nevertheless, taking strategic steps and laying the groundwork increases the likelihood. If it happens, best of luck with managing the influx of comments!

In today’s blog, we delve into the reasons behind our unexpected viral success, sharing our theories, offering advice, and providing insights on how to effectively manage a viral video.

The Video: Know your audience

We really spent a lot of time unpacking why this video did better than the others. We do understand that it was shared on a strong platform with well-performing videos and an established fan base, but there was still research to be done. Why this one and not the others?

Here are the answers:

Lions: Lions as a subject matter do well in videos. According to Google Ads, “lions safari” performs 63% better than “bird safari”.
Targetted audience: We have an in-depth understanding of our audience, and delivered a video about a topic they typically engage with. The Africa on Foot Facebook page attracts a wealth of lion fans who follow the many prides in the area.
Clarity: The video is crisp and clear, without looking over edited and is captured in fantastic natural lighting.
Sound: The action happens the moment you play the video – it’s loud, booming and showcases the sound of the wild. The roar SOUNDS like Africa!
Authenticity: This is not an over-edited or professional video. There’s nothing curated about it – it comes across as being authentic and real-time.
Proximity: This is a case of “man vs beast”, where we see part of the vehicle close to one of Africa’s top predators. You feel CLOSE to this lion.
Length: Facebook users don’t like lengthy videos. This video is exactly 36 seconds long, which is the ideal length for viewer retention. According to our stats, most people viewed the video for 12 seconds, which is higher than usual.

The video was good and captivated attention because it got to the action, quickly.

The Content: Craft compelling headings and short descriptions

Write ups for social media should be to the point and attention grabbing. Make your audience feel that anticipation. You may not apply this to every post, but if your goal is to make one go viral, adhere to this rule.

Here’s how we did it.

We used a simple, attention grabbing headline with few words with bold call to action, scattered with just enough emoticons to break up the text: SOUND UP A King and his call . Keep it simple and use a powerful word (king) and make it sound action-orientated.

The description was short and sensationalist—really focusing on the power of lions. We created engagement by asking a question, gave detail about the sighting and added the web address to drive traffic to the camp’s website. Fluff and filler descriptions were avoided.

This is the text:

One of the Vuyela male lions was spotted relaxing on the entrance road, contact calling to the rest of his pride. We managed to enjoy the most remarkable close up, and listen to his earth shuddering roar that reverberated through the entire vehicle! Thanks to our camp manager for this amazing clip.

Ever been close to a LION KING contact calling?

Spotted at www.africaonfoot.com in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve.

Optimal Times: Is there a right time to post?

Facebook’s algorithm determines when your audience is most active and engaging—listen to the advice. We scheduled this video when Facebook recommended. Generally, audiences are most active during these times: 7:00 – 9:00 am; 13:00 – 15:00 pm; and 19:00 – 21:00 pm. However, it’s best to look at your niche audience and consider their location.

Page History: Laying the groundwork

It goes without saying that were were at an advantage when we posted the viral lion video. Given that our page has a 32,000 followers and 4.8 k average content interactions, the groundwork was already done. Established in 2009, this Facebook page has a longstanding presence in search engines. While not all viral videos originate from “established” pages, it’s an additional factor in the social dynamics that can contribute to success.

Managing a Viral Video: Engage with your community

Because the comments and likes escalated, we set aside time to deal with the comments. It’s impossible to get on top of each comment, but it’s crucial to engage for the first few hours. A quick engagement rate is great for even higher visibility. It shows that you value opinions and dialogue. The rule is simple. Create boundaries by blocking and deleting negative, unnecessary comments. Engage with those who offer value in the comments section and check in with your comments section for the first few days of going viral.

Remember, don’t feed the trolls and fuel any negativity. Block and delete during your viral management phase is paramount to the success of your post.

Results of Going Viral: Dealing with post-viral fame!

We don’t have much to report on when it comes to fame. Some viral videos get picked up by the likes of DailyMail and other media institutions, but we have yet to get there! We observed a moderate rise in engagement and shares following the video, although not significantly. On the other hand, the click-through rate and website traffic have experienced a notable increase, potentially translating to more direct inquiries. While the video still garners views and engagement, the situation is now more manageable. One thing is certain – a viral video is beneficial for both business and bragging rights!

Our viral video was a combination of solid groundwork, strategy and luck. Algorithms are forever changing!

#KnowYourGuide: Chatting to Tyron from Umkumbe

Introducing our new series, #KnowYourGuide, where we engage in conversations with experienced safari guides across all our camps and lodges. This ongoing series will feature a blend of written interviews and guide-centric videos. In today’s spotlight, we highlight Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside, providing an in-depth look into the much-loved guide, Tyron Combrink. Tyron, a personable and well-informed guide, consistently earns glowing reviews from our guests.

A vital element in ensuring a successful safari experience is your safari guide. These guides play multifaceted roles as companions throughout your stay, serving as mentors, educators, and protectors. Alongside the tracking team, they meticulously observe wildlife behavior and movements to identify patterns. Your khaki-clad hero or heroine possesses not only academic knowledge but also practical wisdom, learned while on the ground in the bushveld. Through a comprehensive study of guiding theory and hands-on experience, these guides contribute significantly to the overall success of a lodge.

Did you know? Safari guides aren’t just there to teach you about the wild and find your bucket-list sightings. While you’re cocooned in comfort in the dead of night, guides and predators alike begin to stir. Typically, a guide gets up way earlier than you think—they prep the vehicles for morning game drive, pack the snacks and coffees, and makes sure you’re awake in time for drive. These early morning tasks represent just a fraction of their extensive role as guides.

Let’s get nosy and chat to Tyron Combrink!

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Welkom in the Free State, a mining and farming community without much wildlife—only farm animals.

Why did you decide to become a guide?

My love for the bush started from a young age! When we had career days at school, I always dressed as a field guide. Watching Steve Irwin and wildlife documentaries fueled that desire.

How long have you been a guide at Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside for?

I have been working at Umkumbe for just under 3 years now.

What’s your favourite thing about Umkumbe?

Apart from the wide variety of wildlife we get to see on a daily basis. My favorite part of Umkumbe is the people I work with.

Please share details about your guiding history

I qualified as a field guide during Covid, so it actually made things tricky. I was an intern for a lodge adjacent to the Kruger National Park and spent some time on a small game reserve before starting as a field guide at Umkumbe.

What’s your top rated animal and why?

African wild dogs. When we are lucky enough to see them, it is such an adrenaline rush as they are usually very active. The fact that they are so misunderstood and endangered definitely contributes to them being my top rated animal.

Which species do you fear the most?

The Black mamba snake is the animal that I fear the most.

What’s the most unexpected encounter you’ve had with wildlife while guiding guests?

The most unexpected encounters were following a skittish group of rhinos through long grass and stumbling upon a cheetah mom and her two cubs.

Any advice for someone pursuing this profession?

My advice would be that you can never know everything. You must keep on learning new things and listening to mentors—even after you qualify as a safari guide.

Please give us a cool story from your time at Umkumbe

Spotted hyenas have a bad reputation for being scavengers, but I have always been an advocate for spotted hyenas because although they scavenge they are also very efficient hunters.

On one evening safari we were lucky enough to actually see a lone male hyena take down an adult impala right next to our vehicle. We found him right next to our lodge looking quite interested in a bachelor herd of impalas and started to chase them in circles. The impalas certainly did not think too much of the silly hyena chasing them. What the hyena actually did was to figure out which impala was the weakest—the moment he identified the weaker ones, he put so much pressure on that impala that it was forced to break away from the herd with the hyena in hot pursuit.

Within seconds the hyena got hold of the impala and the rest was history!

And lastly, what sets apart an excellent safari guide from an average one?

I think what sets an excellent guide apart from an average guide is that you need to have passion for not only animals but also people. Always keep learning and bettering yourself. I think the most important is to have respect for wildlife and humans alike.

Thanks Ty! Here’s a bit of “formal” information about the lodge where Ty is based.

About Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside

Set on the banks of the seasonal Sand River in the renown Sabie Game Reserve, is Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside. This well-established lodge is one of the most affordable in the area, offering guests a premier safari experience in a sought-after reserve. Fondly known as “leopard central”, the Umkumbe team frequently spots these cats on their traverse. The lodge sleeps a maximum of 20 guests in 11 chalets/rooms ranging from expansive suites to standard rooms. This authentic lodge offers plenty to do during your downtime between game drives.

The on-site swimming pool and deck area overlooks the riverbed, and provides ample opportunity to spot wildlife from the comfort of the lodge. The lounge and dining area bring a sense of comfort to the lodge, while the small gym provides a place for the more active minded to keep on track with their fitness goals. Avid shoppers can delight in knowing that there’s a small curio shop in the main area that stocks a variety of plush toys, accessories and curios.

Like most Kruger safari lodges, Umkumbe offers twice-daily games that depart at first light and late afternoon. Morning drives include a coffee stop and evening drives include a sundowner/snack stop. For keen walkers, there is the option of a bush walk after breakfast which takes place upon request. Walks are always guide and weather dependent, and conducted in English.

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