Botswana Under Canvas Adventure

Botswana Under Canvas Adventure

Almost every safari experience you have ever dreamed about, comes true in Botswana. Follow the rhythms of the seasons, and whether your interests are wildlife or bird watching, or just plain getting away from it all, you too will find that you are woven into this same rhythm. Visit and explore the the Okavango, Nxai Pans, Moremi, Savute and the Chobe Game reserves.This safari offers a combination of serviced camping and lodge accommodation and a true African Safari Experience...

Okavango Safari - Botswana Safari - Chobe Safari

Botswana Wilderness Explored under Canvas...

Day 1 - 2: Maun: Nxai Mobile Camp

Day 1 – Nxai Pan:
Upon arrival in Maun you will transfer to Nxai Pan National Park. You accommodation will consist of a mobile camp.
The focal point of Nxai Pan is the water hole, situated in the midst of a large grassy plain which is dotted with a few clumps of short umbrella thorn trees. Here, and within the mopane woodland, lion, giraffe, kudu, impala, ostrich, fascinating birdlife and large numbers of springbok, together with a good population of jackal, bat-eared fox and numerous smaller creatures, are permanent residents. Once the rains have started, gemsbok, elephant and zebra migrate to the area. At that time, zebra are present in thousands and drop their young at Nxai Pan, rivalling the spectacle of the multitude of young springbok, to further enhance game-viewing opportunities. Whilst many parks are not considered to be at their best during the rains, Nxai Pan becomes a veritable Garden of Eden during the rainy season.

Day 2 – Nxai Pan:
Today you will explore the Nxai pan area. You will also visit the Baines’ Baobabs. Baines Baobabs, made famous by the explorer / painter Thomas Baine in the last century. These seven enormous Baobab trees are clustered on a small rise next to a dry pan. The Baines Baobabs have been incorporated into the Nxai Pan National Park to protect the trees for future generations.Overnight at the mobile camp at Nxai Pan.

Day 3 - 4: Moremi: Mankwe Bush Lodge

Mankwe Bush Lodge are located on the eastern border of the famous Moremi Reserve. Positioned on a slight incline within a forest area that gives a fantastic view of the local mopani bush Mankwe bush lodge offers luxury tented chalets with a rustic look and feel for that true African experience. Each chalet has also been cleverly positioned on an incline facing the setting sun, which makes sitting on your porch at dusk an ideal time to unwind.
There are seven elevated, luxury, tented chalets available, each of which sleeps two. Each chalet has an en-suite bathroom, which includes a warm shower and all commodities. A viewing platform on each chalet provides a beautiful setting from which to enjoy sunsets over the bush for as far as the eye can see.

Day 3 - Moremi:
Today you will depart from Nxai Pan and be on your way to Moremi Nationa Park. Here you will overnight at Mankwe Bush Lodge.

Day 4 – Moremi:
After an early breakfast you will start exploring the Moremi Game Reserve. You day will be filled with game viewing in this area famous for its great diversity in fauna and flora.

Day 5 - 6: Moremi: Mboma Boat Station

West of Third Bridge is a large, long island, circled by a loop road which stretches for about 50km around it. There's a spur to this at the north end, and a short cut back to Third Bridge halfway round. It's worth spending a day here, as Mboma's environments are varied and beautiful, though different from the floodplain loops nearer to Xakanaxa. I've had great sightings of cheetah on the northern side of the island, and the south is said to be a popular haunt of buffalo herds.

Day 5 – Okavango Delta:
This morning you will leave for Mboma Boat Station via Moremi Game Reserve. From Mboma you will explore the Okavango Delta flood plains by mokoro for 2 hours. After this wonderful experience you will board a motorboat and travel through the lagoons and channels on your way to the island. Sundowners will be enjoyed while travelling to your destination. Overnight at Mboma mobile camp.

Day 6 – Okavango Delta:
Today you will go on a full day excursion on the Okavango Delta with a motor boat. You will enjoy bird watching and exploring the lagoons and channels. You will also visit the Godikwe heronry breeding Island.
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

Day 7 - 8: Moremi: Mankwe Bush Lodge

Today you will leave Mboma behind and go back to Mankwe. On your way to Mankwe you will do a game Drive through to Maremi Game Reserve via the North Gate and have a picnic lunch ad Khwai River.
The Khwai River is one of the major rivers of the delta in Botswana, though it occasionally dries up, leaving a few hippo pools to await the fresh waters of the new season.

Day 9: Savute: Savuty / Linyanti Mobile Camp

Leaving Mankwe behind you will be on your way to Chobe National Park. You will explore the Savuti wilderness and overnight in a mobile camp in Savute. Savute is located southern part of the Cobe National park, where a channel, now dry, once brought an annual pulse of water to the dry land. Open spaces, several water-points for animals and palatable grasses however ensure that Savute rewards the visitor with spectacular game-viewing. Lions and hyaenas are particularly plentiful, and their troubled relationship is the subject of the film “Eternal Enemies”, a wildlife classic by Derek and Beverley Joubert. Bird-viewing in the summer months, when rain inundates the marsh, can be especially rewarding.Linanti lies to the north of Savute along the Linyanti floodplain, at the tail-end of the Chobe River. With beautiful lagoons and river-frontage, this remote and secluded area is rich in bird-life and game, although concentrations cannot rival those of the river.

Day 10: Chobe National Park: Chobe Mobile Camp

After breakfast this morning you will be on your way to the Chobe Riverfront area, famous for it’s big herds of buffalo and elephant. The Chobe National Park, which is the second largest national park in Botswana and covers 10,566 square kilometres, has one of the greatest concentrations of game found on the African continent. Its uniqueness in the abundance of wildlife and the true African nature of the region, offers a safari experience of a lifetime
A major feature of Chobe National Park is its elephant population. The Chobe elephant comprise part of what is probably the largest surviving continuous elephant population. This population covers most of northern Botswana plus northwestern Zimbabwe. The Botswana's elephant population is currently estimated at around 120,000.

Day 11: Chobe National Park: Chobe Safari Lodge

Situated in the town of Kasane, Chobe Safari Lodge overlooks the perennial and beautiful Chobe River with its Caprivi floodplains. The Lodge boasts a variety of accommodation on offer. There are luxury en-suite River Rooms, the new and highly recommended Safari Rooms, and the thatched, more traditional, rondavels. All accommodation has en-suite bathrooms, while the Safari and River rooms also offering air-conditioning.
Today you will do more game viewing on the banks of the Chobe River in Chobe National Park. In the afternoon you will go on a boat trip on the Chobe River. Overnight at Chobe Safari Lodge

Day 12: DepartAfter breakfast you will be transferred to Kasane Airport from where you will catch your flight back home.

Enjoy your Safari with Lathita Tailor-Made Travel

Okavango Safari - Botswana Safari - Chobe Safari

Botswana Wilderness Explored under Canvas...

Pilanesberg Adventure Safari

Leopard Safari in Botswana

Hire a 4x4 in Africa

4x4 Hire in Africa


















Hire one of our late model Landcruiser Prado's or Landrover Discoveries and experience real Africa. We supply rental 4x4 from all major Southern African destinations including;

Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, Durban, Johannesburg, Gaborone, Maun, Kasane, Livingstone, Windhoek, Swakopmund.

Contact us with all the details of your rental request and one of our consultants will be in touch with a quotation and proposal. Our consultants will also assist with route planning and reservations through the Southern African region.

Hire a 4x4...

Hire a 4x4 - Self Drive 4x4 Safari - African 4x4 Safari

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Toyota Landcruiser Prado 90 Series











Engine Capacity:
3.0 litre turbo-diesel engine
12 litres per 100km fuel consumption

Features:
5 seater
air-conditioning
power steering
radio/tape deck

maps and campsite guides

Minimum Rental Period:
7 days. Every day is charged.

Starting from R850 per day

Hire a Landcruiser Prado...

Hire a 4x4 - Self Drive 4x4 Safari - Afican 4x4 Safari

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Land Rover Discovery II TD5











Engine Capacity:
2.5 litre turbo-diesel engine
12 litres per 100km fuel consumption

Features:
5 seater
air-conditioning
power steering
radio/tape deck

maps and campsite guides

Minimum Rental Period:
7 days. Every day is charged.

Starting from R850 per day

Hire a Land Rover Discovery...

Rent a 4x4 - African Safaris - Self Drive 4x4 Safaris

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Botswana Safari Adventure

BOTSWANA SAFARI ADVENTURE

Paging through my favorite travel magazine my heart yearned for an African Safari….

We started planning our Botswana Safari about 6 months in advance. We were a party of 3, Johan, Pieter me… the Three Adventurers setting out to explore and experience the African Wilderness. Johan has lived in Botswana for a few years and he was therefore in charge of the route planning and accommodation booking. Pieter is from Cape Town and I am a Johannesburg yuppie, and neither of us has been on a real camping Safari in the Botswana Wilderness. The days drew closer and before I knew it, we were on the plane from Johannesburg to Gaborone. As we touched down in Botswana I felt a sense of anticipation and excitement for the adventure that lay ahead.

It took forever to pack the Jeep. By the time we strapped in the last jerry can, we looked like we were ready to cross the Sahara dessert. Each person had a small survival kit in the car. Johan’s back pack contained a Leatherman and a few cable ties, Pieter’s bag had an expensive video camera, spare batteries and a charger (he was the official movie maker for the trip) and my duffle handbag bared nothing more than a tube of sunscreen, moisturizer and a toothbrush. Our first destination, was the great expanse of the Makgadikgadi Pans. I have seen many places in Southern Africa, but nothing prepared me for the breath taking beauty of the pans. We arrived late evening and had to drive the last stretch in the dark. The moon was full, and reflected off the white powdery surface. The landscape seemed surreal – there is absolutely nothing, not a tree, a shrub or a rock– it looked like we were driving on the moon. We pitched our tents at the edge of the pan, and we felt like the only human beings at the rim of the world. This beautiful landscape however presented one serious problem, what to hide behind when you have to crouch when nature calls. We quickly made a rule – if anyone asked for the spade and TP (toilet paper), the other parties had to move to the front of the tents, and stay there until the coast is clear. As the flames of the camp fire danced over our tents, we sat chatting late into the night.

The next morning we rouse early and after a strong coffee and few Ouma rusks we were ready to push on. We drove along the edge of the pans towards to Bain’s Baobab. We made our camp under a clump of Baobab trees – the very trees where the explorer Thomas Bain laid his head, some hundred years ago, when he crossed the pans. In the late afternoon huge cumulonimbus clouds started building up and not before long a heavy thunder storm came down. The first drops exploded as they hit the arid earth, and within an hour or so the dry pans turned into a wetland, covered in 4 inches of water. We watched the landscape change before our very eyes, and we could not resist the urge to run out on the pan, splashing water and getting soaking wet from the rain. Pieter caught everything on camera, while me and Johan did a mock rain dance like true Bushmen, thanking the gods for the rain.

The next morning we set off to the north west, towards Chobe. Getting out of the pans was not as easy as driving in. The white powdery sand has turned into mud over night and the road was difficult to maneuver. This is where your 4x4 Safari driving skills get tested to the limit. As one stage we were traveling at 80km/hour, slipping and sliding across the mud, trying to go forward without loosing control of the Jeep. I was shouting to go slower, but Johan knew that if he loose traction now, we will get stuck. It is known that in some places the mud on the pans is so thick that a car can easily disappear before you very eyes, before help arrives.

By the time we hit the highway north, we have high on adrenalin and ready for more action. On the road between Gweta and Chobe, there is no fencing, and we often had to stop on the road to allow animals to cross– this is an African Wilderness – a true Botswana Safari experience. It is a long drive, and Pieter and I chatted away while Johan hummed along with the radio tunes.

We arrived late in the evening at the gates of the Chobe Reserve and after setting up camp, we made our way to the local pub. We sat on the deck, sipping Jin & Tonics, eagerly sharing our experiences of our Botswana Safari thus far, with other travelers. It is known that Jin & Tonic is a deterrent for mosquitoes and Johan used his fear of malaria as an excuse to one too many J&T’s. The next morning we set out to do game viewing. Chobe is a wilderness with an abundance of animals – we encountered herds of antelope, zebra and wildebeest grazing on the open plains. Chobe is renowned for it’s elephant population, counting over 3000. At one point we drove into a herd of elephant. I almost had a panic attack when a few boisterous males started pushing each other around a mere few feet from our Jeep. Luckily a mature male stepped in and quickly put the teenagers in their place. Pieter photographed the whole episode, and he felt confident that the pics were of the highest standard. To experience nature so up close and personal is an amazing experience. Pieter appreciated the scenery and snapped his camera at every opportunity – he was determined to find the perfect pick to send to National Geographic. We spend a few days in the reserve, mostly doing game drives during the day and relaxing next to the camp fire or going the local pub in the evening. By now we were getting into the rhythm of Africa.

From Chobe we set off to Victoria Falls in Zambia. Getting from Kasane to Livingstone we used the ferry. We arrived early at the river and took our place in the long queue. The ferry is a simple float that they use to transport vehicles and passengers across the river. The ferry is alive with people and action, there is food stalls, live chickens and goats and vehicles are ordered around to optimize on space on the ferry. We were the last vehicle onto the boat, and the Jeep was parked precariously at an angle on the ramp, which was hoisted high up into the air, when we crossed the white water. As I took my seat on the ferry I sat next to you young boy chewing on a sugar cane.

By the time we hit Livingstone I was ready to enjoy a hot bath and a soft bed. Being on a Botswana safari is marvelous, sleeping in a tent and using a make shift, hand held shower for a week is great fun and a wonderful adventure, but I was ready to enjoy a little bit of luxury. So there was a slight change in plans, rather than another camp site, I was treating my fellow safari-goers to a night in Zambezi Sun. As I laid in the hot bubble bath, soaking away the dust I closed my eyes to replay the adventures of the past few days.

The high light for our safari was the visit to one of the Seven Wonders of the World – the majestic Victoria Falls, also known as the smoke that thunders. You can hear the roar of the waterfall from miles away. As we walked down the foot path the sound became so load that we had to shout to speak. Nothing could have prepared me for the sight. From between the trees I could see the water curtain crashing down the gorge, creating a thick mist and rainbow above the water. I was in total awe and felt in touch with my creator. After I finished taking about 3 reels of film, of me in any every imaginable pose, with the Falls as the back drop, we made our way to the African craft market. This is a shopper’s haven, and if you have good negotiation skills you are sure to pick up some bargains. For a mere 200 Pula I bought the most beautiful male & female pair wooden sculptures, which would find a special place in my small house, once I get home (as if I did not have enough memorabilia from past safaris).

The next day we tackled the mighty Zambezi, to do white water rafting. After the safety talk, we were ready to launch our rafts. We were in a young, strong group (4 Yanks and the Three Adventurers) and we were ready for some REAL adventure. As we paddled our way into the stream I realized how powerful the Zambezi River flows. For the first hour of the trip we paddled casually along, enjoying the sunlight, making jokes and appreciating the view from the river gorge. Our skipper, Themba told us interesting folk stories about Yumi Yumi, the rivier god of the Zambezi. At rapid No 7, also known as the “washing machine” we got into trouble and no matter hard we paddled, the water washed us up side down, in side out and our raft flipped. Everybody was tossed into the white foam. For a few moments I was disorientated and I could feel my heart pumping as I gulped for air. My body was flushed with adrenalin as I tried to swim. Within seconds I could feel Themba’s hands grabbing my life vest, and I was pulled back onto the raft. The team laughed and shouted of joy. We felt on top of the world – invisible to the power of Yumi Yumi. The rest of the day we paddled through a few more rapids, had a picnic lunch on a small “beach” and enjoyed the landscape. By late afternoon we landed the rafts at our final destination. We were already tired from the day’s adventure and still had to walk up the gorge to reach the vehicles. The winding footpath up the hill was more like a makeshift ladder, with branches knocked into the incline to assist with the “walk”, which in many sections had to be approached on all fours. Eventually we arrived at the top where we were met by a cold beer and smiling faces. It was an adventurous day, and we arrived back at the hotel exhausted but in high spirits.

All too soon we reached the end of our safari. It’s been a glorious 12 days in Botswana and Zambia. We have seen so much, experience a great deal and learned all the words to the songs on Allanis Morriset’s Ironic album (we spend a lot of time in the car driving between destinations). The only thing that remained for us was the long drive back to Gaborone. On the way back we were quite, each busy with his/her own thoughts and trying to store as much information as possible about this Safari experience, in our minds.

When I eventually boarded my flight back to Johannesburg I was sad, but I had my wooden sculptures, my white water rafting video, several reels for wonderful photographs and the knowledge that I will be back.

Contact Lathita Tailor Made Travel to experience an unforgetable Safari in Botswana

Client Feedback

Dear Woudi,

Thanks so much for organizing a great trip. It was really everything Iasked for and more. Ihave tried to copy and paste the questionnaire, but it doesn't even download properly, as I don't have Word on my computer. Also, my printer doesn't work and Lucie'sc omputer also crashed. We are therefore unable to print it to even send to you. We don't really have many comments to add anyway. The only place we would not recommend to stay at is the last one, the log cabin place. It was really nice and the people were nice, but it was too hot and sticky, even with the small fan. We had a lot of trouble sleeping there as a resultof the heat and also because there were so many mosquito's. We arrived without one bite and left totally covered in mosquito bites. Maybe you should only send people there in the winter.

Out of the attractions, we were only disappointed in two. The Cango Caves and Monkeyland. These were 2 places I picked, so it's not your fault. They just weren't what we expected. The elephantback safari was definitely my highlight and it lived up to and beyond anyexpectations I had. The place/people and elephants were incredible and I definitely think you should add that to any future tours.

Arnold was very knowledgeable as a guide. We would definitely recommend him. The only thing I can suggest is that you make sure the guides know what they can get into for free or for a cheaper price. I paid to go on the funicular at Cape Point, while Arnold walked up the pathway. He was not aware that I could have gone on it for free if he had showed his travelguide card. There was a sign when I paid, saying it was free for S.A. travel guides/tours. I had to pay, as he was not with me and they wouldn't have given my money back afterwards. I understand that only certain things are included in the tour, but the guides should still use their access if they could get usin free. You can definitely give both our names/e-mails as contacts if anyone has questions about any aspects of the tour. Thanks once again for all the work you put in. It was really nice to meet you at the airport. We will send a CD of some of the pictures, for you and Arnold, when we get achance to organize them.

All the best,

Andrea and Lucie

Lathita Tailor Made Travel - We Personalize Every Experience

Pilansberg Safari

Botswana Lion Safari

Botswana Lion Safari

Almost every safari experience you have ever dreamed about can come true in Southern Africa.Follow the rhythms of the seasons, and whether your interests are wildlife or bird watching you too will find that you are woven into this same rhythm.This package will give you the unique opportunity to explore South Africa Arriving in Maun, then air hop to Makgadikgadi, Okavango Delta, Linyanti, Chobe through to Victoria Falls.

Price Starting From:
USD 3 800 pp sharing for 9 days (Excludes Makgadikgadi Section)

USD 4 750 pp sharing for 11 days

The rate is calculated on two people sharing. Accommodation, Meals, Scheduled daily activities, Park fees & Drinks (Excluding premium Imported Brands)
Tour Duration: 10 Nights/11 DaysDestinations: Makgadikgadi, Okavango Delta, Linyanti, Chobe and Victoria FallsPlease note: Luggage is restricted to 20 kg on air charters in soft bags ONLY including hand luggage.

Enjoy your Safari with Lathita Tailor-made Travel

Botswana Safari - Africa Safari - Wildlife Safari

Detailed Botswana Fly-In Safari Itinerary:

Day 1: Makgadikgadi Pans, Botswana
On arrival at Maun Airport, you will be met by a Flying Mission representative who will transfer you on a light aircraft to Planet Baobab Camp. Accommodation has been reserved for you for 2 nights on the Meer Kat Mania accommodation Plan.

Accommodation Planet Baobab CampRoom: 1 x Bakalanga HutIncluded: Sundowner Drinks with a 3 course dinner

Arrive at Planet Baobab - a traditionally styled Bakalanga and Bushmen grass hut village shaded by giant baobab trees whose average age is 4000 years old! Ntwetwe Pan and Sua Pan, together with numerous smaller pans, form the Makgadikgadi Pans system. The pans are the remnants of the once great Lake Makgadikgadi: 80,000 square kilometres in extent, and up to 30 metres deep, this was the largest inland sea in Africa. In the wet season, this vast area of salt pans interspersed with low-lying grass islands is the destination of herds of migrating zebra. It has an unspoilt beauty unlike any other part of Africa.At PB, you can sleep in traditionally styled Bakalanga huts with en suite showers, curl up in a Bushmen hut complete in every detail, pitch your tent, or park your 4 x 4. You can light your own camp fire, or gather round the communal blaze in the lelwapa and enjoy a cool drink, then sling your own boerewors onto the fire or enjoy PB's unique Pan-African cuisine.Base yourself here and you can take guided walks and quad bike trips into the bush and the Pans with our expert Guides discovering the geological origins of what was once the world's largest ever super lake. Follow the palm trail created by elephant droppings as these ancient creatures trekked across the arid waste when the super lake dried up. Pick up, (and replace!), thousand year old flint spear heads left by the Stone Age hunters who were the region’s first inhabitants. Meals are taken in the adjacent dining area under the spreading branches of a morula tree.

Day 2:
This morning, you will be met by a lodge guide and taken on a Village Visit with lunch, a Quad Bike activity and Overnight trip to Ntwetwe Pan with braai dinner.
Accommodation Ntwetwe PanRoom: 1 x Tent under the starsIncluded: All Meals, limited amount of beverage, Village visit and a quad bike activities.



Day 3 & 4: Okavango Delta, Botswana
At a time to be advised by your guide, you will be taken on a visit to the Meerkats (African Suricates). After spending tome with the Meerkats, you will be transferred to the lodge to pick up you luggage.
Enjoy a 2 hours scenic road transfer through a remote dry pan to Maun Airport.
Upon arrival you will be met by a Safari Air pilot and transferred to Camp Okavango.

Accommodation has been reserved for you for 2 nights.
Accommodation Camp OkavangoRoom: 1 x Standard RoomIncluded: All meals, refreshments, local spirits & wines (excluding premium brands). Motorized Boat activities, Fishing – catch & release & laundry service (on request).

The Okavango is a unique ecosystem of papyrus-lined waterways, knee-deep floodplains, water-lily lagoons, shady forest glades and rich savannah grasslands. Using Camp Okavango as your base, this intricate water wilderness can be explored and enjoyed. Camp Okavango is located right in the center of the Okavango Delta and is surrounded by channel systems and flood plains which form the core water supply to this delicate ecosystem throughout the year. Exploring the Okavango by mokoro, specially adapted boats or guided walking excursions on the islands surrounding Nxaragha Island will allow every visitor to the region the opportunity to truly experience what the Okavango Delta is all about. The main lodge building at Camp Okavango, which houses the reading lounge and cocktail bar, opens out onto an expansive outdoor lounge and fire place built under the shady boughs of huge Jackelberry trees. The elevated rooms are located along pathways which meander out to the left and right of the main lodge building. Each room has its own unique view into the lush Okavango forest from its own private deck. For the romantic Honeymooner or the guest who prefers that added extra when traveling, Camp Okavango offers an exclusive suite. From the suite, the view of the Papyrus lined channels and distant wooded islands are spectacular. Camp Okavango has its own private airfield which is located a mere five minutes walk from the main lodge area on Nxarahga Island. Alternatively Camp Okavango can be reached by means of a scheduled boat transfer system linking Xugana Island Lodge and Camp Moremi to Camp Okavango.

Day 5 & 6: Savute, Botswana
Today after your morning activity and brunch, you will be transferred on a light aircraft to Savute Safari Lodge. From a flight window explore a paradise of permanent delta with many tributaries. Accommodation has been reserved for you for 2 nights.

Accommodation Savute Safari LodgeRoom: 1 x Standard RoomIncluded: All meals, refreshments, local spirits & wines (excluding premium brands).scheduled activities & laundry service (on request).

It is on the banks of the dry Savuti channel that Savute Safari Lodge peers out from amongst the beauty of gnarled acacia camel thorn trees. This channel has a bizarre history of drying up during good rains and having flood levels at other times. The beauty of this area, created by the silhouettes of the many dead trees which relied on sustenance from the water supply of past years, combined with the congregations of old bull Elephants, diversity of animals and abundance of predators makes Savute Safari Lodge a highlight destination for any safari traveller to Botswana. Geographically, Savuti is a place of mystery and great unkowns. The fascination which adds to this true African wilderness area – The Savuti Marsh, is a remnant of a vast inland lake, cut off from its traditional supply of water many years ago by the same movement of the earth`s tectonic plates that brought the Okavango Delta into existence. It is part of the Mababe Depression and is fed by the temperamental Savuti Channel, which has not seen flowing water since it dried up in 1982.

Day 7 & 8: Chobe Game Reserve
Today after you morning activity and brunch, you will be transferred by road to Savute Airstrip for a light aircraft to Kasane.
On arrival at Kasane, you will be met by a Chobe Game Lodge representative who will transfer you by road to the lodge. Accommodation ahs been reserved for you for 2 nights.

Accommodation Chobe Game LodgeRoom: 1 x Standard RoomIncluded: All meals, refreshments, local spirits & wines (excluding premium brands). Mosi-oa-Tunya River cruiser, Skimmer motorized boats, Stargazing on request & laundry service (on request).

What makes every visit to the Chobe National Park and the Chobe River front unique to travelers staying at Chobe Game Lodge, is the fact that this premier establishment is the only permanent game lodge situated within the boundaries of Chobe National Park. Chobe Game Lodge is built along the banks of the Chobe River and offers un-surpassing views of the Chobe River and floodplains from its numerous communal areas as well as all its guest rooms.
Chobe National Park`s wildlife roams in abundance and diversity. It is home to the largest concentration of elephant in Africa and during the dry season these herds, as well as large herds of buffalo, congregate along the fertile flood plains of the Chobe River. Magnificent sightings of lion, wild dog, puku, red lechwe, sable, giraffe and roan antelope are also frequent in the area. Because of this incredible location, when staying at Chobe Game Lodge, our guests have direct access to this amazing wildlife experience without having to enter and exit the National Park with every activity. The ability to observe the sun setting over the Chobe River, with a herd of elephant crossing through the river as a silhouette, is a potential experience unique to guests at Chobe Game Lodge.
We pride ourselves in catering for the most discerning of travelers and therefore your stay at Chobe Game Lodge is fully inclusive of accommodation, all meals, local brand beverages, complimentary mini bar in room, unlimited activities, park entrance fees as well as laundry service.
The lodge can accommodate less than 95 people in total luxury, whilst maintaining an ambiance of exclusivity - offering a choice of land or water activities and the most complete game experience in the Chobe area.

Day 9 & 10: Victoria Falls
This morning at a time to be advised, you will be transferred to Kasane Airport. After clearing all passports and immigration formalities, you will be met by a Lathita representative who will transfer you by road to Elephant Hills Hotel. Accommodation has been reserved for you for 2 nights.

Accommodation Elephant Hills Intercontinental HotelRoom: 1 x Standard RoomIncluded: Breakfast daily

The resort of Elephant Hills Inter Continental, only 4km from the Victoria Falls, provides guests with a panoramic vista of the mighty Zambezi River and its surroundings. 276 rooms and an 18-hole golf course, designed by Gary Player, await you, a memorable blend of luxury and wilderness.The Elephant Hills Intercontinental Hotel is renowned for its extensive conferencing facilities and wide variety of entertainment and sporting activiteis. All arrangements for soft activities and your adrenaline rushing experiences such as the "Flight of Angels" or White Water Rafing is available. A spectacular panoramic view of the mighty Zambezi River and spary from the legendary Victoria Falls greets you from your balacony. The immaculate golf course fairways cut their way through the rugged African bush dotted with grazing antelope and the sound of baboons scolding their young. The championship course awaits your challenge with disdain.World class luxurious accommodation, superb cuisine, and the true essence of African traditions and culture have captured the hearts of the most fastidious of guests. For the nature lover, bird life abounds, whether on foot, or aboard a sunset cruise on a Zambezi riverboat to view the wildlife from a different vantage point until the sunset paints the evening sky a deep crimson and the cicadas herald the night.
While staying at the Elephant Hills Hotel you will enjoy the following activities: A Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi River, Tour of the Victoria Falls, Elephant Back Safari

Day 11: Departure
This morning after breakfast and check out, you will be met by a Lathita representative who will transfer you road to Victoria Falls Airport for your onward flight.

Enjoy your Safari with Lathita Tailor-made Travel

Botswana Safari - Africa Safari - Wildlife Safari

Violence in South Africa – the truth behind the news

Violence in South Africa – the truth behind the news

A message to the tourism industry concerning current events in South Africa, from Mike
Speed, President of the Southern Africa Tourism Services Association I am sure all of you have been watching with increasing concern, as I have, the television news bulletins that have been reporting on the current violence being experienced in South Africa. My message to you is that this violence has been confined to very specific areas, and has not affected popular tourism areas.
As usual, the news on television reports the truth – but not the whole truth. And some perceptions are being created concerning tourism that are most certainly not true.

1. The South African tourism industry is very much open for business. We are all conducting business as usual, obviously with a special regard to client safety. The current unrest has been very localised and restricted to very limited and specific areas; mainstream tourism areas (including all airports) have NOT been affected, and it is very unlikely they will be.

2. It is still safe to visit South Africa, with our vast array of attractions, wildlife and scenic beauty; and we all stand ready to welcome our guests with open arms. There is no need at this stage for anyone to cancel any tourism activity. It is sensible for us all to proceed cautiously, and keep informed on a daily basis regarding developments. In particular it would be sensible to proceed with caution with regard to township activities, and be sensitive to local developments. Whilst this xenophobic violence is a serious crisis, there is quite simply no need for blind panic and total doom and gloom in the tourism sector. And you can be confident in advising your partners and customers accordingly. Please go out and communicate this as widely and actively as possible.

3. The South African government has today decided to deploy the army, the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), in areas where they are most needed. This is welcome news. The SANDF has a great deal of hard-won experience in handling situations of this kind, gained in its extensive work in peacekeeping in many countries. They are both well trained and well equipped to assist the police, who have already done good work and arrested many troublemakers, and we are confident the SANDF will very soon help the police to get the situation under control.

It is unacceptable to all decent South Africans that people should be persecuted in 2008 in this country because of their race or nationality. We, as an association and the inbound tourism industry, condemn in the strongest possible terms this appalling behaviour - these mobs do not represent us as South Africans, and our people demand that these thugs must be swiftly brought to justice. The police and army have the unreserved support of the vast majority of the population.
It would be a huge tragedy if all the hard work that has gone into marketing South Africa in recent years was to go to waste. Indaba 2008 shattered last year’s record with more than 13,200 delegates attending this year’s show compared to last year’s 12,340, so confirming Indaba’s status as one of the top three travel shows in the world, and certainly Africa’s top travel trade show. The programme was well organised and overall a very good event.
Many of the people who have benefited from the growth in tourism are enterprising ordinary people who have started their own small businesses, and they are the people who will suffer most from any downturn in tourism. We ask you all, most sincerely, not to make any hasty decisions for future tourism plans until the situation is resolved. South Africa needs you, as her friends, to support the tourism industry in difficult times. Tourists do more good by coming to our country, and continuing to build our industry than they do by staying away.

In Africa, everyone is a welcome guest.

ENDS:
22 May 2008-05-20
Issued by: Marjorie Dean
On behalf of the Southern Africa Tourism Services Association
3rd Floor, Petrob House
343 Surrey Avenue,
Ferndale, Randburg
Tel: (011) 886 9996
E-mail: ceo@satsa.co.za
Queries: Marjorie Dean, e-mail: communications@satsa.co.za

NOTE TO EDITORS
The Southern Africa Tourism Services Association (SATSA) is the leading body representing the
private sector of the inbound industry. Small to big business, and everything in between, find a home in SATSA. Ours is a non-profit, member-driven, association of tourism service providers who are committed to providing the best tourism experience for visitors (domestic, regional and international) to Southern Africa. Over the years, SATSA has established a reputation for integrity and professionalism by ensuring that our members comply with strict criteria and a Code of Conduct. The appearance of the SATSA logo anywhere is a sign of quality and commitment to service excellence for the tourist.

For more information, please visit our website at http://www.satsa.com/

Lathita Tailor Made Travel - African Safaris, Island Honeymoons, Family Vacations

The Central Kalahari - Botswana

Botswana Safari Destination - The Central Kalahari

Larger than Denmark or Switzerland, and bigger than Lesotho and Swaziland combined, the 52,800 square kilometre Central Kalahari Game Reserve, which was set up in 1961, is the second largest game reserve in the world. Situated right in the centre of Botswana, this reserve is characterised by vast open plains, saltpans and ancient riverbeds. Varying from sand dunes with many species of trees and shrubs in the north, to flat bushveld in the central area, the reserve is more heavily wooded in the south, with mophane forests to the south and east. Rainfall is sparse and sporadic and can vary from 170 to 700 millimetres per year.

The people commonly known throughout the world as Bushmen, but more properly referred to as the Basarwa or San, have been resident in and around the area for probably thousands of years. Originally nomadic hunters and gathers, the lifestyle of the Basarwa has gradually changed with the times and they now live in settlements, some of which are situated within the southern half of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. Government is, however, encouraging these people to move to areas outside the reserve in order that they may be provided with modem facilities, schools, clinics, etc. and to integrate them into modern society.
Other fairly recent residents were Mark and Delia Owens, who spent many years in the Deception Valley area of the park undertaking research mainly on brown hyaena. They set up their camp in the northern section of Deception in a prime "tree island", however tree islands are no longer used for camping in these days of more environmental awareness. The Owens' book, "Cry of the Kalahari" brought the attention of readers to this previously little-visited area and even today many people refer to the Central Kalahari simply as Deception. The name "Deception" comes from a pan the dry surface of which sometimes appears convincingly full of water until one gets right to the edge.

Trans-Kalahari Travel
The main wildlife concentrations are to be found in the tourist areas in the northern half of this vast reserve but it is possible for adventurous and completely self-contained visitors to travel through the reserve between Khutse on the southern boundary to the northern section - a journey that takes a minimum of two days of 4x4 wilderness travelling. Undeveloped campsites are available for overnight stops at Molapo, Gope, Bape and Xaka. Those visitors wishing to travel trans-Kalahari should note that, apart from being self-contained with all fuel, food and water, they should only travel in a group of two or more vehicles with basic spares and survival aids.

How to get there
There are three entry points to the reserve, the one through Khutse in the south, then a western entrance through Xade and also in the northeast through Matswere. Access to Xade, where there are two undeveloped campsites near the Xade Wildlife Camp, is made by turning off east from the Ghanzi-Kang road about 36 kilometres south of Ghanzi where indicated by signpost. Xade is reached after following this loose sandy track for 160 kilometres, taking about three hours for the full journey from Ghanzi. Visitors should fill up with fuel at Ghanzi and ensure that they have sufficient for their entire stay. On arrival at Xade visitors are required to check in at the tourist office in the Wildlife Camp.
Access to Matswere can be made via Rakops, where petrol and diesel are available most of the time, 55 kilometres from the check-in point at Matswere. Rakops can be accessed from the north from Maun - Motopi - Kumaga - Tsoe, or from the south from Mahalapye - Serowe - Letlhakane - Mopipi. Matswere can also be accessed from Maun by travelling 57 kilometres east, turning right at the Makalamabedi junction, continuing for 20 kilometres to the village and turning right on the western side of the veterinary fence. The fence is followed south for some 80 kilometres of sand track to the Kuke corner veterinary gate, after which a further 21 kilometres down the eastern boundary of the reserve takes the visitor to the entrance gate which is then only 9 kilometres from Matswere. This "short cut" from Maun takes about three and a half hours travelling time.

Camping facilities
Matswere is the access point for designated but undeveloped campsites in the region of Deception Valley, Sunday Pan, Leopard Pan and Passarge Valley, whilst the campsites at Piper Pan can be accessed from either Matswere or Xade. New tracks and campsites have been opened up along the Passarge Valley, where game viewing can be most rewarding, and south from the Passarge waterhole area through to link up with the Piper Pan/Deception road. It is along this latter route that the new Tau campsite has been opened in an area that well reflects the very spirit of the Central Kalahari.
Plans have been made to put in rustic pit latrines to service most of these undeveloped campsites, but until this development has been completed, visitors dig their own mini-latrine to ensure they leave no signs of being there, particularly where toilet paper is concerned. Firewood may be collected from well-wooded areas but not from tree islands.
The ashes from campfires must be buried before vacating a campsite, combustible rubbish burnt and non-combustibles carried back to the pit at the entrance gate. Water for purposes other than drinking is available from the Wildlife Camp at Xade and at the Matswere entrance gate/tourist office. There is also a plan to develop some basic shower facilities at the Matswere entrance gate for visitors' use, but the provision of water for this purpose is, in common with most desert areas, a problem at present.
Wildlife
Game viewing for animals which include giraffe, brown hyaena, warthog, wild dog, cheetah, leopard, lion, blue wildebeest, eland, gemsbok, kudu, red hartebeest and springbok, is best between December and April, when the animals tend to congregate in the pans and valleys. Visitors are warned that sleeping in the open without a tent is dangerous and foolhardy and that they should keep their tents fastened to prevent snakes, scorpions, etc. from gaining entry. Foodstuffs, etc. should not be kept in the tent but should be closed into the vehicle to avoid the unwanted attentions of lions and hyaenas.

Lodge Accommodation Options at Deception Valley:

Deception Valley Lathita Interactive Safari Lodge
- Self Catering Serviced Tented Camps
- Serviced Camp Sites
- Guided Game Activities

Haina Safari Lodge
- Luxury Fully Serviced Lodge
- Serviced Camp Sites
- Guided Game Activities

Deception Valley Lodge
- Luxury Fully Serviced Lodge
- Guided Game Activities

Travel to Africa

Travel to South Africa

Promoting travel to South Africa has the potential of increasing and expanding your travel business tremendously. South Africa has so much to offer, and almost everybody thinks of "Safari" when talking to them about travel to South Africa.An African Safari is an opportunity of a lifetime. South Africa has preserved wide tracts of land for conservation; allowing visitors to witness and experience close encounters with African animals at home in their natural habitats. Many game reserves can be found around South Africa, all offering excellent opportunities and experiences. The Kruger National Park, the largest game reserve in South Africa at nearly 2 million hectares is home to an impressive number of species. The Big 5 - lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo and rhino, are among these. Also to be seen are zebra, wildebeest, giraffe, cheetah, wild dogs and hippo. Private game reserves offer exclusive luxury accommodation in harmonious bush lodges or luxury tented camps. With most of these lodges in excellent settings, it is not uncommon to see game from your private viewing deck overlooking a waterhole. Game viewing takes place from open-air vehicles and a private game guide will ensure that the experience is unforgettable, getting you up close and personal with the wildlife. Before dark falls, watch the blazing African sunset melt away and darkness take its place as a lion roars in the distance. With every modern comfort, excellent cuisine and sipping South Africa’s delicious wines, the romance of Africa is certainly captured. Later around the campfire, recall and share the exciting experiences and game viewings of that day while listening to the calls of the night.To ensure that your clients have an "experience of a lifetime" and have peace of mind about traveling to South Africa, there are certain things you need to be aware of when booking your clients on a tour and safari to South Africa. It is important to know the tour operator you are booking with. I suggest that an agent book their clients' safari vacations through a company that is familiar to them, not just an unknown company that they might have stumbled upon on the internet, but one that they personally know or that has been recommended to them. It is even better if that company has an office within the United States. Being able to call that company on a toll free number to talk directly with a representative and have all your questions answered is so assuring!Client satisfaction is key in selling any vacation, but is paramount when selling a safari vacation! Know what your clients' interests and needs are. Do your clients want a luxury tent accommodation or do they prefer a more modern lodge? Do they want to travel with a very small group only or do they want to be part of a larger group of travelers? Are they the more seasoned and adventurous traveler whose interest lies in a self-drive tour?The baby boomer generation and senior travelers travel well in small groups. Traveling in smaller groups is much more enjoyable. This offers greater intimacy, and the leader and the guide can pay attention to each client and their comforts, and they feel that this tour is designed just for them. Escorted tours and personally accompanied tours make your client feel unique and safe. They are not just a number in a large group, but they get individual attention and have the opportunity to experience South Africa just the way they always imagined to.Look for a company that can cater to your clients' needs, one that can offers specialized tours and customized travel, one that is flexible and can offer tailor-made tours to meet your clients' needs such as honey moons, anniversary destinations, small group travel where your client is made to feel unique and safe, or even cater for larger groups such as university alumni groups. Your clients might be interested in cultural experiences, the theatre, home visits to local South Africans, or food and wine tours. South Africa boasts two luxury trains. Their main route is from Pretoria to Cape Town and vice versa taking either one or two days for the journey, but there are other shorter or longer side trips that are available. Both offer a memorable and very special experience.Another important aspect to consider is the issue of malaria. There are a number of game parks and reserves in malaria-free areas that offer the "Big Five" (Lion, Elephant, Leopard, Rhino and Buffalo) game viewing experience in just a great a way as the famous Kruger National Park does. It is important for you to be able to offer this malaria-free safari option to your clients through the operator you are working with.South Africa is the destination of the future. Most of your clients have been to Europe, have done more than their fare share of cruises, and want to learn and experience something new. Exchange rates make South Africa particularly attractive. Some Americans are considering alternatives to a European holiday, as the euro-to-dollar exchange rate makes such trips more expensive. The situation has made South Africa, with the favorable exchange rate of more than 8 Rands per dollar, more alluring. And on closer look, many travelers discover the nation's offerings are often on par with those of Europe.

Lathita Travel offers unique travel to South Africa. Robin and Stella personally accompany the groups from the USA on requestand travel with them for the entire duration of the trip. For more information, contact Lathita Travel at www.lathita.co.za, robin@lathita.co.za, or call 1-866-466-8222 or 502-545-1878. (USA)