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Travel Update: Rivers and Re-openings in Botswana

admin — Tue, 09 Jun 2020 16:32:58 +0000

Despite the worldwide lockdown (and a distinct lack of guests to enjoy it) we’re thrilled to have Botswana’s rivers return in such abundance.

In May 2019, President Mokgweetsi Masisi officially declared drought across Botswana. Thankfully, excellent rains have fallen and our lodges across the Okavango Delta are surrounded by floodwaters once again.

In a double dose of good news, many camps and lodges are also open again! Where’s the first place you want to go?

Here’s an update on the rivers and re-openings in Botswana’s best addresses.

Chobe Safari Lodge and Chobe Bush Lodge Update

Botswana’s National Parks have been open for 14 days already following the national lockdown, which lasted for seven weeks to help contain the spread of the Covid-19 virus. The elephants of Chobe National Park are still going about their merry munching business and the Chobe River floodplains are positively brimming.

This video taken from Chobe Safari Lodge shows how high the Chobe River has risen. In fact! Our favourite sundowner spot, Sedudu Bar, was even underwater in May 2020.

However, Chobe River water levels are already starting to subside again.

Safari operators across Botswana are working towards recommencement of travel for international guests around October. However, tourism is likely to only be open for selected destinations as global governments and tourism bodies monitor the global pandemic and subsequent border controls.

The Botswana Tourism Organisation has issued strict Tourism Industry Covid-19 Guidelines for reopening.

We are incredibly pleased to help pioneer resumption of travel with the announcement that Chobe Safari Lodge and Chobe Bush Lodge are open for local travel from today, 10 June 2020.

Chat to us about planning your future safari in charming Chobe National Park.

Okavango Delta Water Levels 2020

The rain in Angola falls between November to April before slowly meandering south into Botswana. Usually, the Okavango Delta fills by late May or June and floods peak during July and August.

Contradicting the most water-laden plains, this is actually Botswana’s dry season.

There are water stations at various points of the Okavango River system. Data from Hydrology Services in Namibia showed water levels rising steadily and 2020 waters at their highest in past five years. On 24 February 2020 water levels measured 7.06m at Rundu compared to 2019 measurements of 5.14m and well above the annual average of 5.59m.

After entering Botswana at Mohembo, the Okavango River then spreads near Seronga where it starts to form Botswana’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Okavango Delta. There are then three main channels that develop, namely Thaoge, Jao and Nqoga. Jao is the central channel and seems to be carrying the most water this year. This middle channel later becomes the Boro River.

After 18 months since the last floods and having travelled 2000km from the Angolan highlands, these are the first waters of the 2020 Okavango flood. On 12 May, the Boro River brought water to the safari base town of Maun, passing it into the Thamalakane River.

As rivers start to reform again it is tradition for Batswana to fetch water from these fresh floodwaters. Many believe it is the beginning of new life for everything.

On 20 May 2020, floodwaters travelled a further 13km since passing below the Matlapaneng Old Bridge and continue to hit the Boteti River on 28 May 2020.

Moremi Crossing and Gunns Camp Report

Last year we introduced game drive safaris to Moremi Crossing and Gunns Camp due to dry conditions. However, both camps are now back to being water-based stays again as floods have completely islanded the lodges!

Camp managers report that the boats are back on the water and walking safaris will take place on Chiefs Island (via a mokoro crossing over the Boro River) until the Okavango Delta swamp waters recede again. You’ve gotta love the rhythms of nature!

Note: As of April, Pom Pom camp is now part of the Kwando Safaris family.

Mma Dinare and Rra Dinare Lodge Report

Although we have had no guests for the past two months, our camps have still been busy. A skeleton staff remained on call to ensure lodge upkeep, and they have also enjoyed some fabulous sightings.

Both Rra Dinare and Mma Dinare lodges are located to make the most of glorious views and game across the Gomoti River. Floodplains are full again and at much higher water levels than last year. These lodges share the same concession, which borders Moremi Game Reserve.

If you’re confused about concessions, read this guide to the Okavango Delta, which lays it out simply for travellers.

Mokoro excursions are all in action and expose visitors to the soothing tranquillity of the floodwaters up close.

Nata Bird Sanctuary Report

Sadly, the blessing of floodwaters has not extended as far as Sua Pan in the Nata Bird Sanctuary. The Nata River received water twice this year but with very shallow flows. At the moment, the Makgadikgadi Pans here are bone dry, but that doesn’t make it any less magical.

Nata Lodge is also open for business!

Keen to see Botswana in all its glory? Contact us about staying at one of our lodges or camps for local deals.

The post Travel Update: Rivers and Re-openings in Botswana appeared first on Under One Botswana Sky Blog.

Gallivanting by Game Drive at Moremi Crossing & Gunn’s Camp

admin — Wed, 21 Aug 2019 10:16:41 +0000

As of the end of July, game drive safaris are now offered at both Moremi Crossing and Gunn’s Camp in the Okavango Delta!

With water levels lower than usual in the Okavango Delta, there are greater expanses of unexplored land mass within our private concession that offer perfect opportunities for wildlife viewing by game drive. Game drives are a new additional activity, which will be available to guests at Moremi Crossing and Gunn’s Camp during the drier cycles when water activities may become more limited.

Game drives added to two camps

The introduction of game drives adds even more value to these well-priced delta camps popular with smaller groups, families or travellers looking for a more intimate and authentic delta experience. Enjoy a morning or late afternoon game drive exploring the remote wilderness and diverse wildlife in our private concession, with sundowners ending off the afternoon drive.

Enjoy a chilled drink while watching the sun set over the Okavango Delta before heading back to camp

From Gunn’s Camp, game drive vehicles will carry a maximum six guests per vehicle, while those from Moremi Crossing will take up to nine guests. Game drives are offered as one activity only per night’s stay and there is no private vehicle option available at these camps.

Mekoro and walking safaris remain

During high water season our guests will once again get to delight in the ever popular mekoro, boat cruise and fishing for the ultimate delta experience.

Cruise through the interconnected channels of the Okavango Delta on a mekoro when water levels are high

Walking safaris on the famous Chief’s Island in the Moremi Game Reserve, as well as within the concession, in combination with seasonal mekoro remain the highlight and a year-round activity.

Year-round adventure camping

What’s more is that this is the only area where guests can book a night or two in the wilderness for an adventurous and rustic experience in our bush camp.

Camp in the remote wilderness of the Okavango Delta no matter what time of the year

Adventure camping is now available year-round and must be pre-booked. The nights spent camping in the wilderness must be in between at least one night at Gunn’s Camp or Moremi Crossing.

Contact us for more information on these exciting safari experiences.

The post Gallivanting by Game Drive at Moremi Crossing & Gunn’s Camp appeared first on Under One Botswana Sky Blog.

What Our Guests Say

admin — Fri, 28 Sep 2018 08:02:23 +0000

Guests weigh in on their stay at Under One Botswana Sky lodges and camps.

Guests have been loving the complete safari experience offered at our properties located within all of Botswana’s world-class destinations. Here are some of the reviews received by guests staying at Under One Botswana Sky lodges and camps over the course of this year so far.

Chobe Bush Lodge

Good Base for Exploring Chobe River

The Chobe Bush Lodge has large, modern rooms with a balcony overlooking the pool area. The open-air dining room is on the first floor. The sister facility, across the highway, is similar but with a larger dining buffet and is a gateway to the pontoon boats used to navigate the Chobe River on game drives. Overland game drives in Safari vehicles were also experienced. Definitely, can be recommended.

Home location: United States
Travel date: June 2018

Chobe Safari Lodge

Great Place

My fifth visit to this lodge and I already have reservations for 2019 and 2020 sorted too. It’s the best description of my experience I can think off…Ohh, yes, I travel all the way from Scandinavia every summer to visit this place. Great service, fantastic safari, friendly locals and great activities!

Home location: Scandinavia
Travel date: September 2018

Nata Lodge

Camping

We camped at Nata Lodge on our stay-over from Kasane to Francistown for two nights, the rates were surprisingly good! Had a great stay amongst the trees and relaxed next to the pool. Ablutions were neat and easily accessible. Close proximity to Nata Pans where the flocks flamingos and pelicans are, just a few of the birds we saw. Well recommended.

Home location: unknown
Travel date: September 2018

Gunn’s Camp

Outstanding Camp

Gunn’s Camp is set on the Okavango Delta, there is a stunning view from every tent and from the communal area. Our tent was wide, with king size bed and a lot of space to put our things. There is a safe inside the wardrobe. Toilet and sink are inside the tent, while shower and bathtub are outdoor. In the morning they wake you up bringing a cup of tea or coffee. The food was very good, and wines were well paired with food. There was a wide choice of different kinds of tea and infusion. All the staff is top level.

Home location: Italy
Travel date: August 2018

Moremi Crossing

Highlight of Our Southern Africa Trip!!!

I can’t say enough about Moremi Crossing! Words can never describe how amazing this resort is. We left the Chobe River and National Park right before we came to Moremi. We thought nothing in the world could top that experience, but we were so wrong! My husband and I have been a lot of places and seen a lot of things, but nothing compares to the few nights we spent at Moremi Crossing. If you can live without the internet and a few creature comforts, you won’t find a better way to experience the Okavango Delta and the nature it holds!

Home location: unknown
Travel date: August 2018

Pom Pom Camp

Extraordinary, Immersive Africa Experience

What an amazing, if expensive experience. This is the immersive Africa experience; think elephants with their little ones near your accommodation, the silence of the delta and the bush, the little aeroplanes moving you between camps/local airports, and the magic of seeing members of the Big 5 (we saw four). The staff at Pom Pom Camp are more than people serving you. You develop a relationship with them, even on a short stay. Our family is saving up to go back. Loved the place.

Home location: unknown
Travel date: August 2018

Rra Dinare Camp

Luxury Lodge with Wonderful Facilities and Excellent Game Drives

The layout of this property ensures total privacy and the feel of luxury. The food is wonderful and staff excellent. Totally worth the money spent for the inclusions and experience. The opportunity to shower under the stars is something that should not be missed.

Home location: Australia
Travel date: February 2018

Mma Dinare Camp

Fantastic Holiday

Mark was excellent in his advice when I was trying to organise our trip to Botswana and Victoria Falls. He knows his stuff and catered brilliantly for our requests. A great holiday experience and well worth the trip, a once in a life time opportunity. Pom Pom Camp, Garden Lodge in Kasane and Victoria Falls Hotel were outstanding and the location of Mma Dinare with viewing of at least 40 elephants at lunch time right by the lodge.

Home location: United Kingdom
Travel date: August 2018

The post What Our Guests Say appeared first on Under One Botswana Sky Blog.

Why You Should Take a Bush Walk in Botswana

admin — Thu, 23 Aug 2018 12:27:04 +0000

Step out of the safari vehicle and into the wilderness on a bush walk in Botswana.

Taking a game drive in a safari vehicle is perfect for sighting wildlife from a higher angle, particularly if the bird or animal is far off and a pair of binoculars is needed. In order to have a more intimate encounter with the local fauna and flora, however, you’ll want to put on your walking shoes and take to the stomping grounds of Botswana’s abundant wildlife.

If you’re not yet convinced about the bush walk experience, here are three reasons that may just help you make up your mind.

1. Journey off the beaten track

Explore Botswana on foot © Under One Botswana Sky

Leaving behind the paths well-ridden by many safari vehicles means you get to encounter the small details of the bush, which might otherwise pass you by when elevated during a game drive. The intricacy and inter-connectivity of the local ecosystem through which you walk is visible, for instance, in the architecture of a bird’s nest and the various symbiotic relationships that occur between birds and animals.

Enjoy bush walks at Chief’s Island when at Moremi Crossing © Under One Botswana Sky

Nestled into the palm-fringed Ntswi Island in the Okavango Delta and bordering the Moremi Game Reserve, Moremi Crossing is an ideal spot from which to visit Chief’s Island to view abundant game from the ground. Going into the bush on foot means being an active part of the wildlife experience rather than simply observing from a safari vehicle. An exciting part of a bush walk is taking paths that are completely inaccessible to vehicles; hike to caves, waterfalls and elevated rocky outcrops.

2. Learn something new

Get up close to Secretary Birds © Under One Botswana Sky

Do you fancy yourself something of a detective? Well, a bush walk is a great way to figure out the clues of nature. The highly experienced and knowledgeable ranger that guides you through the bush will teach you how to identify animal spoor and droppings, the calls of various species of birds, and the difference between medicinal and poisonous plants.

Adventure in the wilderness surrounding Rra Dinare © Under One Botswana Sky

In the south eastern section of the Okavango Delta, Rra Dinare offers stunning views of the Gomoti River, connecting floodplains, riverine forest and the wildlife that inhabit this area. Bush walks starting from either Rra Dinare or Mma Dinare are seasonal and dependant on the water levels. When they are possible, you can learn about the plants and insects that are characteristic to this particular delta biome.

3. Get in touch with nature

Find peace in the company of giants © Under One Botswana Sky

Few would doubt that surrounding yourself and connecting with the natural world is good for the soul. Another key benefit to trekking through the bush is that it should help to slim down your waistline, which might be necessary after indulging in the scrumptious snacks offered on game drives.

Immerse yourself in nature when at Gunns Camp © Under One Botswana Sky

However, don’t be alarmed about the level of fitness needed to embark on a bush walk. It’s not meant to be a strenuous day-long hike or a fast sprint to the end point. Rather, chat to the guide about what pace you would like to go at and what interests you have so that they assist you in getting the most out of the experience. Similarly placed as Moremi Crossing, Gunns Camp is also a good place from which to explore neighbouring Chief’s Island on foot.

If you’re interested in booking a safari, chat to us about how we can customise an itinerary for you that will include all modes of game-viewing transport.

The post Why You Should Take a Bush Walk in Botswana appeared first on Under One Botswana Sky Blog.

Unforgettable Destinations For Your Honeymoon – Botswana

admin — Wed, 29 Jun 2016 06:45:25 +0000

Whether you’re looking for a luxurious yet affordable island accommodation, the adventure of a lifetime, or a private and romantic getaway, there are plenty of destinations that will meet and even exceed your expectations.

The old standbys like Hawaii are great, and have become established for a reason, but there are many possibilities beyond the obvious, in this vast and beautiful world we live in.

Botswana, Africa is full of adventure, sights to see, and wonderful people to interact with.
The most breathtaking safari adventure is waiting for you in Botswana. Untouched wilderness gives you access to amazing sights, from lions stalking their prey to beautiful bird life.

Under One Botswana Sky offers six lodges and camps to choose from, at various price points giving access to four major safari destinations. You won’t find a more wildlife-rich experience than in Botswana.

Originally posted on the Huffington Post. Read the whole article here.

The post Unforgettable Destinations For Your Honeymoon – Botswana appeared first on Under One Botswana Sky Blog.

Romance Safaris in Botswana

admin — Fri, 20 May 2016 10:35:50 +0000

From magical intimate dinners under a canopy of stars, luxury vintage safari camps with amiable nostalgic safari atmosphere and starlight baths, chilled champagne in your tent to exhilirating game viewing in Botswana’s wildlife-rich, untamed and unspoilt wilderness – what better place than the remote and romantic Okavango Delta for creating unforgettable memories?

Special activities included in the Romance safari is a private mokoro trail with surprise champagne and a fishing expedition with picnic – full or half day options. Other activities on offer are game walks, mokoros, sunset motorboat cruises with sundowners and game drives, off road and at night with trackers, in Pom Pom’s private Okavango concession area. As an optional extra for the more adventurous secluded islands sleep-outs at Gunn’s Camp are available.

Originally published on VictoriaFalls24.

The post Romance Safaris in Botswana appeared first on Under One Botswana Sky Blog.

How to Choose Safari Accommodation

admin — Mon, 21 Dec 2015 12:18:55 +0000

Imagine sleeping in a humble tent in the deepest African bushveld, only accompanied by the raw sounds of wilderness. For many, this is precisely how a safari should be experienced. But safari accommodation comes in a variety of other forms too. From camping on the banks of the Chobe River to staying in modern boutique rooms with stylish design, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Luxury Safari Tents

Sleeping in a safari tent gives you the opportunity to be close to nature and experience the real spirit of Africa. Hearing wildlife roaming past your tent or birds chirping their melodious mating calls near Pom Pom, Gunns Camp or Moremi Crossing in the heart of the Okavango Delta is a thrilling affair.

Safari Rooms

Staying in a contemporary setting can also be a base for your Botswana safari experience. Chobe Bush Lodge’s rooms provide a comfortable stay with bush-style design. The safari rooms are made of an intriguing mix of modern-day luxuries and traditional African décor.

Camping

Camping is a brilliant option for those who are keen to experience an authentic wilderness stay. You cannot get much closer to wild nature than setting up a tent on a campsite overlooking the Chobe floodplains or just beyond the secluded Makgadikgadi Salt Pan, surrounded by utter silence.

Thatched Chalets

The great thing about Nata Lodge’s chalets is the fact that they are built on stilts and set in a rustic African style to seamlessly combine the essence of Africa and the comfort of home. One of the chalets has also been built to accommodate the physically challenged and guests who require easier access to the shower and toilet.

Rondavel

Chobe Safari Lodge’s original accommodation type, the traditional thatched rondavel, provides an excitingly unique safari visit. These independently positioned units create an intimate wilderness base.

The post How to Choose Safari Accommodation appeared first on Under One Botswana Sky Blog.

Safari Sunsets in the Beautiful Botswana

admin — Tue, 29 Sep 2015 08:45:48 +0000

Botswana is a country of many wonders. Just look at the immense herds of elephants that come to drink and play in the Chobe River. Catch a glimpse of one of the renowned predators of Moremi or trek deep into the vast, mysterious sands of the Makgadikgadi Pans to feel the magic of untouched Africa.

What really sets Botswana apart from other safari destinations is the sheer exquisiteness of its sunsets. Time and time again the shades of red and orange paint the sky with an incredible mix of colours as the sun slowly makes its way below the horizon.

Here is a selection of our favourite sunset photos:

Chobe National Park. Photo credit: Chobe Safari Lodge

Okavango Delta. Photo credit: Gunns Camp guest, Rob van Grieken

Chobe National Park. Photo credit: Chobe Safari Lodge guest, John Rogers

Okavango Delta. Photo credit: Pom Pom Camp guest, John Rogers

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Candice’s Botswana Trip

admin — Fri, 14 Aug 2015 13:04:02 +0000

Day 1

An excited Candice flew from Cape Town to Maun via Johannesburg. The Airlink flight from Jo’berg to Maun was delayed for 2 ½ hours and she whiled away the time watching how Airlink handled the situation and found it fascinating eavesdropping the reactions of the passengers especially as 90 % of the flight was American tourists, which happens to be our key market.

A note from Candice regarding immigration at the Maun border: “Expect an inordinate amount of paperwork and hand writing of forms and documents – nothing is electronic!”

She was met by a rep from Moremi Air and promptly air hopped into Pom Pom Camp. Besides the awe inspiring views of the Okavango Delta from the air, it was exciting when the pilot needed to buzz low over the runway to chase some animals away before landing – welcome to Botswana!

Candice loved Pom Pom Camp, especially the staff. From the ‘welcoming committee’ who sang for her on arrival, to the fun but professional managers (Andy and Dineo) to her great tracker and guide team, BT and Shaku.

Her first night was quite eventful when during a short rain storm, a yapping hyena decided to take shelter under her tent (raised on stilts). She was able to relax and laugh about it the next morning when her guides took her on a calming mokoro (dugout canoe) ride along the winding waterways of the Okavango Delta.

Some facts:

Pom Pom Camp has nine units with unit 3 being a family unit and unit 9 being the honeymoon suite with the amazing bath that we featured in our Best Baths Blog post. Safari activities include game drives and mokoro rides and the camp also features a pool.

Day 2

Her next stop was Gunn’s Camp, also in the Delta overlooking the Moremi Game Reserve, and only a 15 min airhop away. Compared to Pom Pom, Gunn’s Camp is more established and slightly smaller with only 6 units. A memorable feature is that the camp is on an elephant migration route which is a sight to behold. The walkway between the tents and the public area is about 200m long, and happens to be exactly where the elephants cross! Candice was hosted by Chocs and Dudu (the managers) and taken on a later afternoon river cruise.

She also site inspected the nearby Moremi Crossing Camp which is the largest of the three camps with 17 suites, and therefore more suited to groups. The tents are slightly smaller and the reception area is designed and crafted out of local products to resemble a turtle!

Some facts:

Safari activities at these two camps include river cruises, mokoros and walks in the Moremi Game Reserve.

Day 3

It was an hour’s flight from the Moremi region to Kasane in the Chobe region. Kasane is the entry/ exit hub for travellers going from the lodges and camps in Botswana’s Chobe National Park to Zambia – in particular to and from Victoria Falls.

Here Candice stayed at Chobe Safari Lodge, one of our favorites which always receives great feedback from our clients. Even though it is a large lodge, this Kasane accommodation is cleverly laid out and managed so that you don’t feel it. PLUS the game viewing is superb here.

Some facts:

The river cruise boat takes up to 40 people at a time and departs once a day in the afternoon.

Day 4

Her final stop on her whirlwind agent’s inspection trip was Nata Lodge. Located midway between Maun and Kasane and more popular with self-drivers, the lodge is set just a few minutes away from the Sua salt pans and is a paradise for birders. The accommodation is less luxurious than Pom Pom, Gunns and Chobe Safari Lodge, but she definitely got to experience the warm hospitality that Botswana famous for!

Some facts:

There are 22 thatched ‘rondavel’ units each fitted with air conditioning; 1 wheelchair friendly suit and 10 tented units. There is an oasis-styled swimming pool. You can do an excursion to the salt pans in the afternoon. It takes place within the Nata Bird Sanctuary. Various birds and antelope roam the pans. There are no big cats or predators here.

Originally published on Southern Destinations by Stef Black.

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