Safari Nxai Pan National Park

Safari Nxai Pan National Park

Experience the contrasting landscapes of the Kalahari with this short safari to the Nxai Pan National Park. Ancient Pans that ones formed part of a large inland lake system and now only filled with water during the rainy season, vast grasslands with herds of african wildlife and predators roaming the perimiters...

INCLUDED IN PACKAGE:

Destinations: Botswana, the Kalahari and Nxai Pan National Park

Transfers: All Schedules Transfer

Accommodation: Luxury tented camp

Meals: All meals and some beverages while on Safari

Activities: see itinerary for details

Park Fees: Included

Guided: Yes

Package Price USD1,960.00 per person sharing

(This rate is calculated as a price for four people sharing – Accommodation and flights are subject to availability)

Kalahari Safari - Botswana Safari - Nxai Pan Safari

Experience the Nxai Pans and the Kalahari...

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Day 1, 2 & 3 MOBILE CAMPING – NXAI PAN National Park

On arrival you will transfer from the Maun to Nxai Pan National Park. There is nothing here before the supply team arrives, but they travel ahead to set up camp, spacious meru tents with twin beds, fitted with sheets, blankets and warm duvets. The bathroom is ensuite, with a bush bucket shower, and a “long drop” toilet. A fibre-glass base sits over a deep hole, providing a toilet seat and we supply a bucket with ashes and a scoop to maintain a clean environment.

Game drives are conducted in open sided 4 x 4 vehicles ensuring maximum visibility. After tea we embark on the afternoon game drive. As the sun sets on the African savannah, we enjoy sundowners and head back to camp for dinner. Three course meals are cooked over an open fire and dinner is served either in the marquee tent or under the stars. The evening is spent around the fire listening to the sounds of the wild, discussing the events of the day.

At dawn, we have an early light breakfast, and then head out on our morning activity, returning for a hearty brunch. Then there is a short siesta time to relax, and your showers are filled with warm water at your request, usually in the afternoon, as the morning breeze can be quite cold. As the midday hours are very hot, most of the animals retreat to the shade and are harder to spot during this time. If the roads are passable we will go and see the famous Baines Baobabs. The seven giant trees dominate a small island on the edge of the open grassless Kudiakam Pan.

We spend two days here at Nxai Pan, exploring the pans that were once part of the great lake that covered central Botswana. Perhaps the focal point of Nxai Pan is the water hole, situated only two kilometres from the entrance gate, in the midst of a large grassy plain which is dotted with a few clumps of short umbrella thorn trees. The park is located just north of the Maun-Nata main road and adjoins the Makgadikgadi Pans on its northern border. The pan itself is a fossil lake bed about 15 sq. miles (40sq. km) in size. The landscape is dotted with clusters of umbrella acacia trees and Mopane woodland in the north. During the rains from November to April, the pans become covered in grass - a landscape typical of the Kalahari. Nxai Pan is well known for a huge springbok population, as the short-cropped grasses can testify, and extraordinarily large herds of giraffe with up to 30 in a group. Also to be seen are blue wildebeest, gemsbok, eland, greater kudu and red hartebeest. The more commonly seen predators are spotted hyena, cheetah, leopard and jackal with the elusive brown hyena a rare treat.

Day 4 Transfer back to Maun

After breakfast, we drive back to Maun to connect to your onward flight to your next destination.

Kalahari Safari - Botswana Safari - Nxai Pan Safari

Experience the Nxai Pans and the Kalahari...

ENJOY YOUR SAFARI WITH LATHITA TAILOR MADE TRAVEL

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Rates include:

• Meet and Greet at Maun Airport

• Accommodation for 3 nights in ensuite meru tents in the the Nxai Pan Game Reserve

• Activities in Nxai Pan consisting of Game Drives

• All National Park Fees and Camping Fees in Botswana

• All meals and beverages including mineral water, soft drinks, beer, and local wines ( cash bar for Spirits is available on request)

• Daily Laundry Service while camping when there are no water restrictions

Rates exclude:

• International flights to Maun

• Alcoholic Spirits, these can be provided via cash bar on request

• Any extra activities not mentioned on original itinerary and quote

• Rates quoted for guests are from midday on date of arrival to after breakfast (leaving camp latest 8.30am). This is to avoid additional Park fees due to strict Park regulations. Guests wishing to arrive/depart before or after these stated times will be liable for additional Government Park and Guides fees.

• Tips and gratuities for guides and staff

Kalahari Safari - Botswana Safari - Nxai Pan Safari

Experience the Nxai Pans and the Kalahari...

ENJOY YOUR SAFARI WITH LATHITA TAILOR MADE TRAVEL

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Nxai Pan National Park and Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

Situated west of Maun on the main road to Nata, these two Parks are littered with fossil pans that are covered by short grasses that attract hundreds of zebra and wildebeest every year to graze, this migration is an essential part to the survival of these herds, as the water dries up in the Savuti and Chobe areas they make their way south, for here there are fewer predators, lush grazing and water! The Parks of the Makgadikgadi and Nxai Pan are also host to Steenbok, Oryx (Gemsbok) and Springbok. The big cats are represented with the cheetah flourishing in the vast open expanses of Nxai Pan, and most recently the Lions of Nxai pan featured in the IMAX movie “Roar”, the hugely popular giant screen format film from National Geographic and Tim Liversedge Productions.

When Nxai Pan was first declared a game reserve in 1971 it was small at only 1 676 km², but in 1992 it was enlarged to its current size of 2578 km² and was changed to its National Park status. Baines Baobabs were named after the famous painter and explorer of the last century Thomas Baines, who painted this unusual group of baobabs in 1862 during his journeys through Southern Africa. This remarkable cluster of trees, also known as Seven Sisters, has been immortalized by other painters as well, including Prince Charles. Today, the scene that captivated Baines, inspiring him to record the formation on canvas, is little changed and still attracts the attention of visitors, although now the baobabs are recorded on film. The seven giant trees dominate a small island on the edge of the open grassless Kudiakam Pan. They used to be an ideal picnic spot for visitors, but now that this area has been incorporated in the national park this is no longer permitted, and it will be years before the area recovers from the damage of uncontrolled camping.

Makgadikgadi Pans National Park lies to the south of Nxai Pan National Park and covers a vast area of 7 800 km² it was established in 1971. In June the herds of zebra and wildebeest start their west ward migration to the Boteti region of the pans, this once great migration darkened the savannah for days but sadly due to the encroachment of humans, the destruction of habitat and the construction of the controversial “Buffalo Fence” in the 1970’s the annual migration is but a shade of what it used to be.

A visit to Botswana is not complete without a trip to the pans, the sense of vulnerability, witnessing the vast nothingness gives a new perspective.

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...

Leopard Safari in Botswana

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

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!

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!

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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.

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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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