Lathita Tailor Made Travel

Image the tranquility you will experience as you watch the sun set on the bush horizon, with the wind softly rustling through the acacia trees above your head. Or the inner piece you will find, listening to the rhythmic breaking of the waves on a white beach, just steps away from your bed. Let your imagination run wild, and allow Lathita to create a tailor made holiday for you, to that make that dream a reality.

At Lathita Travel we pride ourselves in the fact that we offer clients what they want - our packages are all tailor made. We can create tailor made products to the following destinations: South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Lesotho, Swaziland, Mozambique, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Seychelles, Maldives and Mauritius. We have more than 400 properties and dozens of activities to choose from. You tell us what your “wants” & “needs” are, and one of our consultants will work with you to create an unforgettable holiday or safari.

We offer the following variations on any of our packages:

- Choice of destination to any Southern/Eastern African country of Indian Ocean islands. You can combine countries if you desire

- Departure date and duration of package

- Preferred style of accommodation: different star grading lodges, hotels, guest houses, African tented suites or camping

- Preferred mode of transport: self drive, guided safari or tour, fly-in package, car rental self drive or even camper vehicle

- Selection of activities to choose at each destination

- A package to suit every budget

Lathita Travel aims to provide all clients with a professional and personalized service. Our experienced guides and tour consultants will advise you on the best time of the year to visit certain regions, the most scenic destinations to include in your package, the best routes to follow and the most suitable properties (accommodation) to meet your needs.

Whether you want to do a family holiday, an African Safari adventure or a romantic honeymoon – Lathita will be able to put a package together.

Sample Itineraries:

-Do a guided safari to Botswana and include Chobe Game Reserve, Okavango Delta, Central Kalahari and Makgadikgadi Pans as destinations on your safari

-Do a fly-in safari to Victoria Falls and include a Rhino and Lion walk experience as part of the package

-Do a self drive adventure to Namibia and visit Windhoek, Etosha National Park, the Skeleton Coast, Swakopmund, Luderitz, Sossusvlei and Fish River Canyon as part of the route

-Explore the scenic Garden Route, located between Port Elizabeth and Cape Town and include an Elephant Back safari, Cango Cave adventure, Knysna Lagoon experience and Winelands tour as part of the activities.

-Travel through South Africa in 3 weeks and include all the highlights this beautiful country has to offer, Kruger Park, Drakensberg, Wild Coast, Garden Route and Cape Town.

-Create the perfect African Honeymoon – choose between a selection of mountain, beach, island or bush destinations and properties

For more ideas, visit the accommodation, lodge & game reserve and tours & safari sections of the Lathita website. Tell us what you would like to experience on your next holiday our consultants are waiting to assist you.

Contact Lathita Travel with you special request!

Kalahari & Delta Experience

Kalahari & Delta Experience - R14500 pps
Kalahari & Okavango Delta - Botswana

Experience two of the most magnificent wilderness areas in Africa with this day luxury Botswana Safari, and visit the Central Kalahari Game Reserve and the Okavango Delta.

This Package includes:
- 2 nights accommodation at the luxurious Haina Safari Lodge,
- 2 nights at the picturesque Pom-Pom Camp,
- 2 game activities per day
- all meals,
- all transfers
- flights Ex JHB

Contact Lathita Expeditions for this unique Botswana Safari Experience.

African Safari – Botswana Safari - Kalahari Safari

Southern Africa Conservation Areas.

Nature has endowed Southern Africa with great riches and the sub continent is host to a multitude of game species, birds, plat life, reptiles, butterflies and several smaller creatures that are quite easily overlooked. No less diverse than its wildlife is its scenery; a mosaic of lakes, rivers, waterfalls, vast salt pans, towering mountains, beaches, forests, woodlands, and a fascinating array of geological formations. Fortunately, much of the sub-continent's wildlife heritage and many of its unique attractions enjoy the protection of conservation.

South Africa
Offering a variety of landscapes and wildlife experiences, South Africa is justifiably promoted as "A World in one country". Within its borders are the expansive plains of the Karoo, the Cape Floral Kingdom, towering mountain peaks, vast tracks of bushveld and mikes of unspoilt beaches. It is recognized as a world leader in the field of conservation and counts among its parks two of the oldes conservation areas in Africa, Hluhluwe-Umfolozi and St.Lucia. Other well known parks include the Kruger National Park, Richtersveld, Addo Elephant National Park, and the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park in the Southern Kalahari.

Botswana
Approximately 17% of Botswana enjoys conservation status as national Parks, Game Reserves, or forestry areas. The Okavango Delta in undoubtly the country's main attraction and nearly one third of the Delta is protected within the boundries of the Moremi Game Reserve. Contrasting sharply with the waterways of the Delta are the vast saline pans of the Makgadigadi and the savanna woodlands of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. Other game reserves in Botswana includes Chobe National Park with its vast herds of Elephant, Savute, Khama Rhino Sanctuary, Khutse Game Reserve, Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, and the Thuli Block.

Lesotho
Situated on the Drakensberg escarpment in the south eastern Lesotho, Sehlabathebe National Park is Lesotho's only conservation area. Its main attractions are the spectular mountain scenery, strangely shaped sandstone formations, rock paintings and excellent trout fishing.

Mozambique
Many years of civil war have destroyed much of Mozambique. including most of its wildlife heritage. The country is however rebuilding its tourism industry and ans is currently enjoying the attention of private investors as well as government. Most visitors are attracted by the superb scuba diving and spectacular beaches of the Eastern Coast. National Parks includes Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park, Bazaruto National Park, Parque Nacional da Grongoza, and the Maputo Elephant Reserve.

The next issue of this blog will follow shortly with more information on parks in the following countries;

Namibia
Swaziland
Zambia
Zimbabwe

Experience a African Safari with Lathita Expeditions.

Explore Botswana - 10 day Lodge Safari

Explore Botswana - African Lodge Safari

Explore the best of Botswana on this 10 day Lodge Safari and visit Chobe, Makgadigadi, Moremi, the Okavango Delta, and get a glimpse of the Victoria Falls in Zambia.

Destination(s): Botswana, Zambia

Tour Details: Livingstone to Maun

Trip Duration: 10 Days and 9 Nights

Highlights : Livingstone (Vic Falls), Chobe, Makgadikgadi Pans, Okavango Delta, Moremi and Maun.

DAY 1: Livingstone, Zambia

You will be met at the airport and taken to the Zambezi Waterfront Lodge. Your afternoon will be spent talking about the great experience and adventure lying ahead and exploring the area. You will spend one day in this magnificent location near the majestic Victoria Fall. There are ample activities to keep one busy in the Victoria Falls, one of the seven world wonders, so your afternoon will be a busy one.

Accommodation: Zambezi Waterfront Lodge

Activities: Numerous adventure activities, sight seeing at the Victoria Falls and curio shopping.

DAY 2: Chobe, Botswana

This morning you will travel to ‘’the smoke that thunders’’. As you feel the drizzle of the water from the falls your breath will be swept away by the awe-inspiring site. You will leave the magnificent site of the falls behind and depart for your next stop in the marvellous Chobe Region. A new country and a new location beckon you to continue your journey. The Chobe area is a stunning green-shaded area in Northern Botswana. The Chobe river makes its flowing blue mark on the ground while, at sunrise and sunset, the sky is painted purple-pink and yellow by the sun. The Chobe is famous for its stunning sunsets and game viewing opportunities. The sunrises will give you the opportunity get up early and the sunsets the opportune occasion to unwind with a cold beer. As you enjoy sipping your beer and looking out over Chobe River you may see some elephants drinking the Chobe’s water.

Accommodation: Elephant Valley Lodge

Activities: Game viewing and boat cruises

DAY 3&4: Makgadigadi, Botswana

It will be an early start as you depart from the famous Chobe and the elephants to the infamous Makgadigadi area with its Baobab Trees and salt pans. Although it is a 5 hour drive you can enjoy the remarkable scenery and the solitude of the landscape that is so different from the roads travelled at home! The Baobab trees is known as the ‘’upside down tree’’, and upon looking at one it is clear why. The tree and its branches create and image of the roots of a tree. Compared to humans they grow to be humungous. Today you will see this awkward phenomenon. Tomorrow you will have the opportunity to experience another one: the Ntwetewe pans.

Accommodation: Planet Baobab

Activities: Guided Baobab Bush Walk, Visit to Ntwetwe Pans, Half day quad bike excursion and game drive.

DAY 5 & 6: Okavango Delta, Botswana

This morning you will make your way to Maun. On arrival in Maun, board your flight over the Delta and fly to Camp Okavango. This afternoon why not enjoy a Mokoro excursion? Alternatively you can spend the evening relaxing and enjoying the natural environment. Your guide will not accompany you on this part of the journey, but rest assured as you’ll be met by a local guide at Camp Okavango.The delta environment has large numbers of animal populations that are otherwise rare, such as crocodile, red lechwe, sitatunga, elephant, wild dogs, buffalo, wattled crane as well as the other more common mammals and bird life. You will experience a sense of solitude in this wildlife filled area of waterways as you explore them, but feel safe in knowing that you have guides that know the Delta. On your second day at Camp Okavango you can choose between numerous ways to pass the time and take in the delta landscape.

Accommodation: Camp Okavango

Activities: You can chooses between motorised boat activities, a guided walk or another mokoro excursion.

DAY 7 & 8: Moremi, Botswana

Board your flight mid-morning and make your way back to Maun. Your guide will meet you when you land and transfer you to Moremi for a 2 night stay at Mankwe Bush Lodge. Moremi is located east of the Okavango Delta. The wildlife reserve is a magnificent site and renowned for its beauty. The wildlife is as diverse as the green shades of the bush and the amount of experiences. Originally the idea behind Moremi was to support the locals of the area in creating an honourable living. Today, Moremi help visitors to create fantastic memories.

Accommodation: Mankwe Bush Lodge

Activities: Game Viewing

DAY 9: Maun, Botswana

Today you will travel back to Maun. The name Maun comes from the word ‘’Maung” meaning ‘’place of short reeds’’. You will realise that although the tour were a short 10 days long, the memories of this place, Botswana, will last a life time.

Accommodation: Island Safari Lodge

Activities: Sightseeing

DAY 10: Maun, Botswana

Stand up and breathe in the breathtaking beauty of Botswana. Take a last look around and take in as much as possible of the scenic surroundings. The journey is at its end, but the sharing of the experiences you had is just beginning. You will be sad to leave this brilliant country and although it has only been ten days the memories will last you forever!

Experience Botswana with Lathita Expeditions.

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Explore Namibia - African Safari

Explore Namibia on this epic African Safari with Lathita Expeditions.

Tour Details: Namib Desert, Swakopmund, Brandberg, Ethosha, Otjiwarengo, Windhoek
Tour Duration: 15 days

DAY 1: Windhoek - Namibia
Your guide will meet you at Windhoek Airport. From here you will leave for a relaxing night at Hochland Nest, a game reserve just outside Windhoek. Windhoek is the capital of Namibia and has a combination of a cosmopolitan and German flair. Windhoek is a wonderful town and the ideal location to start your tour.
Accommodation: Hochland Nest
Hochland Nest is a mere 40 minutes drive from Windhoek and is the ideal breakaway from the city or for you to start your journey in Namibia. The Lodge is cozy and intimate with friendly staff providing attention to each and every guest. It is a home away from home. The chalets are individually styled and furnished. They have private en-suite bathroom and secluded outdoor deck. Generous spacing between the chalets ensures complete privacy. What makes Hochland Nest so unique is the fact that it is next to the Friedenah Dam, which has water through out the year. In this dry sand-filled country this is truly an amazing site. Almost just as amazing and unique as the experiences of the tour that lies ahead.
DAY 2: Aloe Grove Safari Lodge -Namibia
Today your Namibian adventure begins. During the early morning you will go on a nature drive after which you will drive to your next destination: The Aloe Grove Safari Lodge near Otjiwarongo. Otjiwarongo is neat, prosperous and green. The town has got modern facilities such as banks, shops and restaurants. A quick drive through this town will bring you to your next destination that, as in Otjiwarongo, boasts with modern facilities in the middle of the bush.
Accommodation: Aloe Grove Safari Lodge
The atmosphere at the lodge is as phenomenal as the sunrises and sunsets. As an international tourist you can expect international standards. The cuisine and service are of the highest quality. You will feel safe in your comfortable and luxurious room after the game drive in the bush. For Nature-lovers and photographers, Aloegrove is sheer bliss. The spectacular bird- and wildlife of these Savannah will captivate you. Animals to be seen include kaleidoscopic birds and sensational game such as lion, kudu, eland, giraffe, oryx, mountain-zebra, hartebeest etc.; and of course the scurrying warthogs! For those who venture out on one of our many hiking-trails, the experience will be truly memorable. Your experience in the bush does not end with a game drive, but continue when you are given the opportunity to feed the leopard, lion and cheetah!
At Aloegrove you will be spoilt by beauty and able to savour an unspoilt landscape from the vantage point of a luxury Bungalow.

DAY 3: Onguma Lodge, Etosha, Namibia
Etosha is a beautiful National Park with plenty animals and easy game viewing. Depending of the season, animals will roam the open plains or cluster around watering holes, where you will see herds of zebra, impala, springbok, lions and elephants. Be sure to go to Etosha Pan, where you can park at the pan edge to view the vastness of this moon landscape.
Accommodation: Onguma Tented Camp
Onguma Tented Camp is a beguiling mixture of sophistication and relaxation, of elegance and the earth. It is the intriguing combination and attention to detail that makes Onguma Tented Camp the ultimate in safari chic.
The surrounding nature lends itself to long lazy afternoons, spent relaxing on the sofas in the lounge, watching the animals go. And when things heat up, all that is required is a gentle stroll to the rim flow pool.
In the local Herero language, Onguma means,” the place you don’t want to leave”. With the atmosphere, and the daily activities taking place around the water hole at Onguma Tented Camp you certainly wish you could stay longer.
DAY 4 & 5: Etosha Mountain Lodge, Etosha, Namibia
After breakfast you will drive to Etosha National Park. Etosha, meaning "Great White Place", is dominated by a massive mineral pan. About two million years ago, this area was an enormous lake, fed by the Kunene river. Although the lake dried up, the game is flourishing. Two nights in Etosha should allow for ample game viewing opportunities. Be sure to go to Etosha Pan, where you can park at the pan edge to view the vastness of this moon-like landscape.
Accommodation: Etosha Mountain Lodge
Etosha Mountain Lodge is situated on the southern border of the Etosha National Park. The lodge is situated amongst dolomite hills and offers a combination of luxury, wilderness & cuisine. The private reserve on which the Etosha Mountain Lodge is situated is well stocked with game and you can expect to encounter both black & white rhino as well as giraffe, eland, mountain zebra, kudu, oryx, cheetah, leopard, springbuck, blue wildebeest, black-faced impala, sable, hartebeest and other wildlife endemic to the area.
With all there is to see in Etosha you will be happy to close your eyes and rest after the busy day.

DAY 6 & 7: Brandberge, Namibia

This morning you will drive to the Brandberge in Damaraland which is famous for its bushman rock engravings – the ‘’White Lady’’ being the most famous. Damaraland is well known for its awkward looking plants and trees that look like they have been imported from outer space. The Brandberge is the highest mountain in Namibia and is sure to be one of the highlights of your stay.
Accommodation: Brandberg White Lady
The lodge is named after Namibia's most famous rock painting, the White Lady, which graces the side of a hill in the Brandberg Mountains. After a local mine closed in the early 1990s, a group of unemployed men in the community got together and organized the service after unescorted tourists were found to be defacing and stealing the rock paintings. In 2004, the Tsiseb Conservancy opened a visitors' center that offers a coffee shop, Internet café, tourist booking office and a crafts shop. The impressive stone building is a source of pride for the community. And through their efforts of conservation your are able to see the mark left by the early inhabitant of this area.
DAY 8 & 9: Cape Cross, Namibia

Today you will travel from the Brandberg Mountains to the sand and see of the skeleton coast. The Portuguese seafarer Diego Cão, in 1486, was the first European to arrive in Cape Cross - He put up a Padrao (cross) in honour of the king of Portugal. As you arrive in this seldom-explored town you will be amazed by the awe-inspiring site of the awesome beaches. Although it is one of Namibia’s smaller towns with little permanent residents, an enormous colony of 100 000 seals, has made Cape Cross its home.
Accommodation: Cape Cross Lodge
You will be staying on the sand in luxury and under the beautiful Namibia sky listening to the waves of the Atlantic ocean.
The atmosphere is that of a holiday beach house. You are almost forced to relax. And in the tranquil surroundings that is created by the staff and the décor you will be reluctant to do anything else.
Day nine will be packed with activities: Your journey starts off with a visit to the biggest Cape Fur Seal-breeding colony in the world on the main land. During your visit to the Seal colony, the guide will inform you of all relevant information regarding the seals and the historical background of Cape Cross. Cape Cross was the first European contact in Southern Africa in the year 1485. This was so important that a replica of the original cross was created and erected. As Namibia is internationally renowned for big herds of breeding Seals, Cape Cross is known for this unique feature. Then we proceed to the petrified salt lagoon, where you can dig and see the crystallization of salt over 400 years old and experience the process of salt mining.
Thereafter and on our way to the Messum Crater, we stop at one of the richest Lichen stretches of the Namib Desert where we have found all six species that have to date been discovered in Namibia. The nutrient rich, cold Benguela Current not only generates a wealth of marine life, but it also produces fog which ensures the survival of an intriguing variety of desert adapted animals and plants.
We then depart to branches of the Messum River where a dense population of Welwitschias are growing, including the largest recorded Welwitschia in Namibia. Thereafter, the excursion continues across the stark lunar landscape to view the Messum Crater. The silence and solitude of the Crater is totally contrasting with the turbulence of other destinations.
After such an event filled day you will be glad to go and unwind in your room hearing the waves in the back ground.
DAY 10 & 11: Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, Namibia

After a good breakfast you will tackle the drive to Swakopmund, the second largest town in Namibia. You will stay in Swakopmund for two days, giving you the opportunity to explore the town and surrounding area, with its many restaurants and pubs. A visit to Walvis Bay will be well worth your while: The route to Walvis Bay is amazing with yellow-shaded sand dunes on one side and the blue Atlantic Ocean on the other. Both Swakopmund and Walvis Bay allows for a wide variety activities that can be enjoyed during your stay.
Accommodation: Langholm hotel
The Hotel offers all the comforts of home. The comfortable lounge and private bar are open every evening until 22h00, where guests may have a drink or simply relax after a busy day. Langholm is a stone's throw away from the lagoon, golf course and swimming pool. Tours into the desert, the lagoon and surrounding areas can be arranged to make your stay more enjoyable. Langholm's bedrooms are comfortably and tastefully furnished with en-suite bathroom, telephones with direct dialing and television.
During your stay in Swakopmund you will be going on a quad-bike adventure on the sand dunes. You can ride the dunes: It will be like the wildest and spiral roller-coasters of the Namib. The 38 – 50 km guided tour includes drinks, safety gear and transfers. It provides excellent photographic opportunities and guarantees an adrenaline rush.

Day 12 & 13: Sossusvlei, Namibia
You will leave early morning going into the Namib Desert. While visiting the Sosusvlei area you will go on hot air balloon excursion in the Namib where you will have a champagne breakfast and a nature drive. You will receive a flight certificate. You will also go on a sun downer trip at Betesda. Overnight at Betesda Camping Site. (Dinner included).
Day 14: Windhoek, Namibia

After breakfast you will depart on your way back to Windhoek. You will be able to explore the city of Windhoek. Visit some of the attractions like the Craft market, the National assembly or the Natural Scientific Museum. Relax at the hotel and make use of the many activities they offer. Overnight at Windhoek Country Club Resort. (Accommodation includes breakfast)
Day 15: Departure
Depart to Windhoek Airport from where you will catch your international flight.

Explore Namibia with Lathita Expeditions.

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Tuli Block - Botswana

Tuli Block - Botswana - African Safari

The attractions of eastern Botswana are today, one of its best-kept secrets. In the past however, it was populated by a civilisation that we know very little about. Some of the ruins at Mashatu pre date the nearby mysterious Great Zimbabwe ruins, and there is a permanent on-site archaeologist to enlighten you as to its ancient inhabitants.
The Tuli block became its awkward long narrow shape when it was given to Cecil John Rhodes in the late 1800's to build a railway line. There were far too many small rivers to cross, so the line was eventually constructed further west.

Access to the area was historically bad due to poor quality dirt roads and by the 1960's it became obvious that game farming and tourism were the better options for Tuli Block land. Farms began to consolidate into conservation areas, which became privately owned reserves including the Tuli Game Reserve and Mashatu - which is the largest privately owned game reserve in Southern Africa.
The wildlife areas are located between the Limpopo, Motloutse (Great Elephant) and Shashe Rivers and is a diverse wilderness of open grass plains, marshlands, massive trees hugging the riverbanks and a fascinating variety of rock types. Giant boulders and rocky outcrops are punctured by huge peculiar-looking Baobab trees and cacti-like Euphorbias.

There are few fences in the entire Tuli area which permits unrestricted travel for animals along a large section of the Limpopo River. As a result most game farms and private lodges see migrant populations of impala, wildebeest, kudu and zebra as well as resident bushbuck, waterbuck, warthog and hippo. Nearer the Motloutse River you can add hyena, elephant, lion, leopard and cheetah to the list.
Mashatu boasts the single largest population of elephants on privately owned land (in excess of 700), and you are almost guaranteed to see lion and leopard while staying there plus a zebra, giraffe, eland, impala, steenbok and cheetah.
During night drives you are likely to encounter the strange-looking springhare, which resemble small kangaroos as they hop around in the headlights. Genet, lynx, leopard, porcupine, aardwolf and aardvark are all shy nocturnal animals that might be seen.
There are a wonderful variety of birds here, some who soar and others who prefer to keep their feet on the ground. Circling in the thermals you will see lappetfaced vultures, majestic black eagles and martial eagles, while darting to catch insects are brilliantly coloured bee-eaters, kingfishers and rollers,. On the ground are ostriches, huge kori bustards, saddle-billed storks and the rather peculiar-looking ground hornbill. Other birds to watch out for are giant eagle owls and Meyer's parrots.

Rain falls any time between September through to May and the area turns green and many of the antelopes give birth. Mid-summer months are December, January and February. The land is arid and dry during the Winter months of June - August. There are few insects around and although it is cooler, it is still very pleasantly warm during the daytime with cold nights.

TULI & MASHATU SPECIALITIES·

-Elephants of every size in large numbers

-Good chance of seeing leopards, lion and cheetah·

-Mashatu offers mountain biking, horse riding, walking and game drives.

-Night drives reveal rare nocturnal animals·

-Eagles and eagle owls·

-Ground hornbill.

-Unique geology with unusual rocky outcrops.

The Tuli wildlife areas are all under private management, so all visitors must have prior bookings. Night drives are a speciality Rangers and trackers are usually from the Tswana tribe. Mashatu is right on the South African/Botswana border so a safari to this reserve is an easy trip by road from Johannesburg or by direct flight into Mashatu by Air Botswana. This is a malarial area.

Experience African Safaris to Botswana with Lathita Expeditions.

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Namib Naukluft Park - Namibia

Namib Naukluft Park - Namibia Safari

Information on one of Namibia's National parks. Namib Naukluft Park is the largest game park in Africa (40 000 sq. km) and fourth largest in the world. There are four sections in the park: Sossusvlei and Sesriem, Naukluft, Namib section and Sandwich Harbour.

Naukluft.

Camping sites are located near Naukluft River. Naukluft Mountain Zebra park was established in 1964 with the accrual of farm Naukluft as a sanctuary for Hartmann's zebra. Most of the farm surrounding Naukluft mountain massif were purchased by 1970. In 1979 the area known as Diamond Area 2 (south of Kuiseb river, including Sesriem and Sossusvlei) was added to form Namib Naukluft Park. The vegetation of the Naukluft complex has been classified as semi-desert savanna. There are several interesting species occurring in the area. Aloe sladeniana, Aloe karasbergensis, cluster fig, Commiphora, Acacia (thorn) and Euphorbia.Wildlife. The following mammals are likely to be seen: steenbok, springbok, oryx, kudu, mountain zebra, dassie rat, chacma baboon, rock dassie, klipspringer. Up to 200 bird species have been recorded in the area.

Sesriem and Sossusvlei.

Entrance for the visitors is between sunrise and sunset only. 18 camping sites are available at Sesriem with communal ablution facilities. Distance between Sesriem and Sossusvlei is 65 kilometres. Last 5 kilometres before Sossusvlei can be negotiated with 4x4 vehicle only. There are several local companies providing shuttle services from 2x4 parking area to Sossusvlei. Sesriem Canyon is located only 4 kilometres from Sesriem. The canyon, approximately 2 to 4 million years old, is up to 40 metres deep and about 3 kilometres long. Sossusvlei is one the places definitely worth to see in Namibia. Huge red sand dunes, camel thorn trees and vlei (shallow water pond) itself, filled occasionally after a good rains are the attractions of the area.

Visit dunes as early as possible (temperatures are not that high yet and you can take the best pictures), always carry a water with you, sun block cream is a must, as well as a hat. The name of Sesriem is derived from the fact that to reach water six ox thongs were used in old times.

Namib.

Camping sites are at: Mirabib, Kuiseb river bridge, Homeb, Kriess-se-Rus, Bloedkoppie, Vogelfederberg, Tinkas and Ganab. Visitors must provide own equipment, water, food and fire wood.

Sandwich Harbour.

No camping allowed. Open to day visitors between sunrise and sunset. Only 4x4 vehicles are allowed. Entry permits are available in Swakopmund. No angling allowed between 25 January and 15 April.

Sossusvlei Lodge - Wolwedans - Kulala Lodge - Namib Naukluft Lodge - Namibgrens GuestFarm - Zebra River Lodge - Sossus Dune Lodge -Kulala Tented Camp
Sossusvlei Wilderness Camp - Little Kulala Lodge - Le Mirage Sossusvlei River Camp
Betesda Rest Camp

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Etosha National Park - Namibia

Etosha National Park - Namibia



Etosha National Park is one of Southern Africa's finest and Game Reserves. Etosha Game park was declared a National Park in 1907 and covering an area of 22 270 square km, it is home to 114 mammal species, 340 bird species, 110 reptile species, 16 amphibian species and, surprisingly, one species of fish.


Etosha, meaning "Great White Place", is dominated by a massive mineral pan. The pan is part of the Kalahari Basin, the floor of which was formed around 1000 million years ago. The Etosha Pan covers around 25% of the National Park. The pan was originally a lake fed by the Kunene River. However the course of the river changed thousands of years ago and the lake dried up. The pan now is a large dusty depression of salt and dusty clay which fills only if the rains are heavy and even then only holds water for a short time. This temporary water in the Etosha Pan attracts thousands of wading birds including impressive flocks of flamingos. The perennial springs along the edges of the Etosha Pan draw large concentrations of wildlife and birds.
A San legend about the formation of the Etosha Pan tells of how a village was raided and everyone but the women slaughtered. One woman was so upset about the death of her family she cried until her tears formed a massive lake. When the lake dried up nothing was left apart from a huge white pan.


The game viewing in Etosha National Park is excellent, the best time being from May to September - the cooler months in Namibia. Visitors to Etosha Game Reserve can expect to see many buck species, elephant, giraffe, rhino and lions. More fortunate visitors will see leopard and cheetah. There is a network of roads linking the three campsites and subsidiary roads lead to various waterholes.
When it was originally proclaimed at the turn of the century the Etosha Park consisted of an area of 100,000 square kilometres. This was the largest reserve on earth but in the 1960's political pressure resulted in the Park being reduced to its current size.


Accommodation:
Inside the Park:
Namibia Wildlife Resort Rest Camps - Namutoni, Halali and Okaukuejo
All three camps have floodlit waterholes, two of which provide excellent night game viewing. Rhino and elephant are often seen at the waterhole at Okaukuejo, while the newer waterhole at Halali is fast attracting more wildlife.
Bordering the Park:
Onguma Safari Camp - Mowani Mountain Camp - Epacha Game Lodge - Eagle Tented Lodge - Mokuti Lodge



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South Africa Accommodation – Namibia Accommodation – Botswana Accommodation – Zambia Accommodation

Vic Falls, Okavango Delta and San Culture

Vic Falls, Delta and Bushman
Botswana, Namibia, Zambia
Experience the beauty of one of the natural wonders of the world when you hear the thunder of the Victoria Falls and see the towering column of spray when the river is high. Become part of the African culture when visiting the traditional Bushmen villages, and experience the wild life of Botswana in their rich habitat between the waters of the Okavango Delta.
Areas visited include; Victoria Falls, Chobe, Makgadigadi, Kalahari, Moremi, Okavango Delta, and Ganzi.

DAY 1 & 2: Livingstone, Zambia
Start your tour off in Zambia, home of the majestic Victoria Falls. Spend your time doing sightseeing at Vic Falls and doing curio shopping at the local traditional market. Also enjoy a sunset cruise on the mighty Zambezi.

DAY 3 & 4 : Chobe National Park, Botswana
After breakfast you will take the ferry across the river and into Botswana. In the later afternoon you will go for a sunset cruise on the Chobe River to view hippo and elephant roaming on the river banks. A game drive is also included during your stay. You will have the option to go on more game drives, boat cruises and even a fishing expedition, departing from the lodge.

DAY 5 & 6: Makgadigadi Pans, Botswana
As the sun peaks over the horizon you will get ready for your departure to Makgadigadi – it is a 5 hour drive!! Few places in Africa are as remote as the vast expanses of Botswana’s Makgadigadi Pans. Enjoy the remarkable scenery and the solitude. This landscape will take your breath away! During your stay in Makgadigadi, enjoy a Baobab bush walk.
DAY 7 & 8: Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana
After a good breakfast you will depart from Makgadigadi to Moremi. During your stay you will enjoy 1 night game drive on the open 4x4 game viewer vehicles. You are free to do more game drives at your own expense.

DAY 9 & 10: Okavango Delta, Botswana
Today you will enjoy a 20 minute light aircraft flight over the Okavango Delta to Oddballs Camp. This afternoon you will go out for either a mokoro excursion or a walking safari. On day two of your stay in the Delta you will do an early morning walk in Moremi Game Reserve and then after lunch another excursion by mokoro – the rest of the time you can relax and enjoy the natural environment.

DAY 11 & 12: Ghanzi (Kalahari), Botswana
Before departing the Delta this morning, take part in an early morning walking safari before being taken back to the airstrip for your 20 minute flight to Maun. From here you travel to Ghanzi where you will enjoy a ‘Bushman cultural experience’.

DAY 13 & 14: Windhoek, Namibia
Travel to Windhoek today, the largest town in Namibia. This interesting German settlement has beautiful German architecture and is full of history and interesting stories about the people of this region. Windhoek is a popular destination for most tour operators and there are usually many tourists in town – this is a good time to relax at the end of your trip and meet some local people – the people in Namibia in general are very friendly and they enjoy a good social.


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Marakele National Park - South Africa

Marakele National Park - North West - South Africa

The Marakele National Park in the heart of the Waterberg Mountains, as its Tswana name suggests, has become a 'place of sanctuary' for an impressive variety of wildlife due to its location in the transitional zone between the dry western and moister eastern regions of South Africa. Contrasting majestic mountain landscapes, grass-clad hills and deep valleys characterize the park. Rare finds of yellowwood and cedar trees, five metre high cycads and tree ferns, are some of the plant species found here. All the large game species from elephant and rhino to the big cats as well as an amazing variety of birds including what’s probably the largest colony of endangered Cape vultures (more than 800 breeding pairs) in the world, have settled here.
Marakele National Park is currently divided into two parts (namely the +/- 2500 ha ‘Kwaggasvlakte’ section and the Greater Marakele National Park), by a public gravel road (the Hoopdal Road). Most parts of the park are only accessible by 4x4.


Camps
Tlopi Tented Camp
Tlopi is the name that the locals call the river, which feeds the dam on which the camp is situated. The name Tlopi is derived from the word Motlopi, which is the Tswana, name for the tree, Boscia albitrunca or “witgat”. Its common english name is Shepherd’s tree and it is is quite common on the banks of the Tlopi river.This tented camp was formally located some 15 km to the northeast on the banks of the Matlabas River. It was moved partly for contractual reasons, but also to concentrate the park's accommodation on the park periphery.
Bontle Camping Site
Bontle is also a Tswana word that means beautiful. This camping site is located adjacent the park's new reception and administration offices. These are located at the former entrance gate to the picnic area at Kwaggasvlakte.
These names are the outcome of a consultative process locally and park management feel that the names are very applicable.


Areas of Special Interest
A narrow tar road takes visitors up to the top of the Waterberg massif. Views and scenery are spectacular. One is also in the proximity of the vulture colony and these large birds will soar past at close quarters.


5 Things to Seek
Cape Vulture – the park hosts one of the world’s largest breeding colonies of this endangered species. While birds may be seen in the air catching thermals anywhere in the park, the drive up to the Sentech Towers is nearest to the colony and close encounters with these enormous birds will leave visitors breathless.
African Elephant – while some elephant had been previously reintroduced into the park, it was the release of the Tuli elephants in 1999 that captured the public’s and media’s imagination. Rhino – Marakele has a high density of both rhino species and most visitors should see these animals, particularly the more gregarious and diurnal white rhinoceros.
Kudu – as browsers these antelope are in their element at Marakele. Look out for the bulls with their magnificent spiral horns.
The not-so-often-seen-elsewhere antelope species such as reedbuck, mountain reedbuck, eland and tsessebe can be found here.



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The Tuli Block - Botswana

Experience an African Safari in the The Tuli Block.

The attractions of eastern Botswana are today, one of its best-kept secrets. In the past however, it was populated by a civilisation that we know very little about. Some of the ruins at Mashatu pre date the nearby mysterious Great Zimbabwe ruins, and there is a permanent on-site archaeologist to enlighten you as to its ancient inhabitants.
The Tuli block became its awkward long narrow shape when it was given to Cecil John Rhodes in the late 1800's to build a railway line. There were far too many small rivers to cross, so the line was eventually constructed further west.
Access to the area was historically bad due to poor quality dirt roads and by the 1960's it became obvious that game farming and tourism were the better options for Tuli Block land. Farms began to consolidate into conservation areas, which became privately owned reserves including the Tuli Game Reserve and Mashatu - which is the largest privately owned game reserve in Southern Africa.
The wildlife areas are located between the Limpopo, Motloutse (Great Elephant) and Shashe Rivers and is a diverse wilderness of open grass plains, marshlands, massive trees hugging the riverbanks and a fascinating variety of rock types. Giant boulders and rocky outcrops are punctured by huge peculiar-looking Baobab trees and cacti-like Euphorbias.

ANIMALS & BIRDS

There are few fences in the entire Tuli area which permits unrestricted travel for animals along a large section of the Limpopo River. As a result most game farms and private lodges see migrant populations of impala, wildebeest, kudu and zebra as well as resident bushbuck, waterbuck, warthog and hippo. Nearer the Motloutse River you can add hyena, elephant, lion, leopard and cheetah to the list.
Mashatu boasts the single largest population of elephants on privately owned land (in excess of 700), and you are almost guaranteed to see lion and leopard while staying there plus a zebra, giraffe, eland, impala, steenbok and cheetah.
During night drives you are likely to encounter the strange-looking springhare, which resemble small kangaroos as they hop around in the headlights. Genet, lynx, leopard, porcupine, aardwolf and aardvark are all shy nocturnal animals that might be seen.
There are a wonderful variety of birds here, some who soar and others who prefer to keep their feet on the ground. Circling in the thermals you will see lappetfaced vultures, majestic black eagles and martial eagles, while darting to catch insects are brilliantly coloured bee-eaters, kingfishers and rollers. On the ground are ostriches, huge kori bustards, saddle-billed storks and the rather peculiar-looking ground hornbill. Other birds to watch out for are giant eagle owls and Meyer's parrots.

SEASONS

Rainy Season: Rain falls any time between September through to May and the area turns green and many of the antelopes give birth. Mid-summer months are December, January and February.

Dry Season: The land is arid and dry during the Winter months of June - August. There are few insects around and although it is cooler, it is still very pleasantly warm during the daytime with cold nights.

TULI & MASHATU SPECIALITIES·

Elephants of every size in large numbers· Good chance of seeing leopards, lion and cheetah· Mashatu offers mountain biking, horse riding, walking and game drives· Night drives reveal rare nocturnal animals· Eagles and eagle owls· Strange-looking ground hornbill· Unique geology with unusual rocky outcrops
FACTS

The Tuli wildlife areas are all under private management, so all visitors must have prior bookings. Night drives are a speciality Rangers and trackers are usually from the Tswana tribe. Mashatu is right on the South African/Botswana border so a safari to this reserve is an easy trip by road from Johannesburg or by direct flight into Mashatu by Air Botswana.This is a malarial area.

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Tsolwana Nature Reserve

TSOLWANA NATURE RESERVE
The primary purpose of the Tsolwana Nature Reserve is the conservation of a representative sample of the region’s karroid landscapes, habitats, heritage and species.

Tsolwana Nature Reserve
Tsolwana was the final result of the state-subsidised stock reduction schemes that was introduced by the government in the severe drought of the late sixties to help protect the soil against erosion.
The decreased stock numbers eventually resulted in the increase of indigenous animals, which eventually led to the area becoming a conservation area and finally in 2005 Eastern Cape Parks Board became responsible for the management of Tsolwana.
Tsolwana is in a mountainous area, with grass plains and acacia thornveld, which is home to a wide variety of fauna and flora. It is 8500ha in size and marks the start of the Karoo plains.
The reserve gets its name from the Xhosa word "Spike" which is characterised by a prominent hill within the reserve.

Location
Tsolwana Nature Reserve is situated approximately 60 kilometers west of Queenstown and 30 kilometers south east of Tarkastad, nestled on the edge of the Winterberg range.

Climate
Tsolwana lies within a summer rainfall region, but rainfall is unpredictable and often falls in heavy storms, sometimes with accompanying hail, particularly in November. Rainfall peaks during January to March.
Snow is not uncommon in the winter months and spells of cold, wet southerly winds can cause wildlife losses, particularly in plains species.
Temperatures also vary greatly. Summer maximum reaches 38°C, but frost can be expected between May to August. Strong north-westerly winds can be expected from July to September, while frequent southwesterly winds bring rain in summer.

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