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Honour Boipuso Independence Week at Botswana’s Heritage Spots

admin — Mon, 09 Aug 2021 14:30:03 +0000

The Independence Day of Botswana, commonly called Boipuso, is a national holiday observed in Botswana on September 30 of every year.

Botswana is sought after by tourists from across the globe. Lonely Planet describes Botswana as “Blessed with some of the greatest wildlife spectacles on earth, Botswana is one of the great safari destinations in Africa”. It is also a country growing in stature with a secure economy and political stability.

Celebrate Independence Day and experience your beautiful Botswana like never before. Fatshe leno la rona!

Under One Botswana Sky and its sister properties with Kwando Safaris are offering great deals for the long weekend, get in touch with our team for resident’s rates.

Here’s a guide on where to honour Botswana’s heritage.

1. Visit Botswana’s first national park

Kasane’s oldest tourism offering, Chobe Safari Lodge is a landmark establishment on the border of Botswana’s first and oldest national park. Following the successful and prosperous tourism appeal of the Kruger National Park, the vast lands of the Chobe district were officially declared as a non-hunting zone in 1932 by the resident commissioner, Charles Rey, in then-Bechuanaland. However, the area was proclaimed a national park just one year after independence in 1967.

Chobe Safari Lodge has helped travellers explore Chobe National Park for 60 years. Set up to overlook the charming Chobe riverfront, this lodge is the only one in town sharing a border with Chobe National Park.

Book now: Celebrate Independence Day and experience Chobe as you’ve never seen before! Just BWP799 B&B per person sharing. Book three nights and get a free river cruise 🎉 Call 625 0336 to make a reservation or mail diane@chobesafarilodge.com

2. Explore Botswana’s blessed UNESCO World Heritage

The Okavango Delta is one of the best places in the world to go on safari and was declared the Earth’s 1000th UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014.

Each of our Okavango Delta camps is situated in a private concession, offering an exclusive safari experience with a light-on-the-earth footprint.

Meander by Mokoro at Moremi Crossing

Eco-friendly Moremi Crossing rests below tall palm trees in the Okavango Delta. It’s islanded for most of the year when water, flowing south from the highlands of Angola, fills the swampy floodplains. This incredible annual descent of water makes Moremi Crossing an ideal destination for boating and walking safaris.

Book now: Experience the Okavango Delta with us from just BWP1900 per person per night fully-inclusive 🎉 Please email reservations1@underonebotswanasky.com or reservations@underonebotswanasky.com for enquiries

Celebrate in Style at Mma Dinare

An intimate, relaxed camp, Mma Dinare comprises just eight tents that all share a jaw-dropping communal deck, outdoor firepit and dining area with views that make the most of the abundant Gomoti River that flows right past. Parades of elephant are regular visitors to these scenic floodplains, as are Red Lechwe and, of course, enormous buffalo herds.

Bordering the open plains of the Moremi Game Reserve, guests can expect plenty of wonderful wildlife sightings. Predators, such as jackal, leopard and prides of lion are regularly spotted and the Dinare concession is a known hotspot for seeing African Wild Dogs.

Book now: Enjoy a luxurious stay at our newest lodge from just BWP2900 per person fully inclusive 🎉 Please email reservations1@underonebotswanasky.com or reservations@underonebotswanasky.com for enquiries

3. Make for Makgadkigkadi, the motherland

A recent study of mitochondrial DNA states that the mother of all modern humans originated in northern Botswana 200,000 years ago. The Makgadkikgadi might very well be our motherland!

Located within this unique environment, Nata Lodge provides a shady refuge while still blending naturally into its surroundings. Luxury chalets and camping tents balance out the preferences of different types of travellers. The main areas, such as the swimming pool and bar, are spaces to relax and reflect on the day out on the pan or meet others.

Book now: Embrace the sun-kissed sanctuary of Nata Lodge from just BWP699 per double room per night 🎉 Call 247 1112 to make a reservation or mail diane@chobesafarilodge.com

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Botswana residents rates are available – please enquire!
These rates are valid with immediate effect for stays until 14 November 2021 inclusive.
Single supplement is 30% and chargeable for those aged 18 and above.
Self-drive is possible to Mma Dinare in a 4WD (essential).
Mma Dinare: A game drive transfer from Maun (3h+, one way) is included in the rate for a minimum of 2 pax.
Should the Botswana government impose an alcohol ban, prohibiting the consumption of alcohol in camps, there will be no refund or reduction on the rates.

Please note, Gunn’s Camp is closed for maintenance and Rra Dinare is only operational when Mma Dinare is full.

The post Honour Boipuso Independence Week at Botswana’s Heritage Spots appeared first on Under One Botswana Sky Blog.

When is it safe to book my next Botswana safari?

admin — Tue, 07 Jul 2020 07:33:36 +0000

Dear traveller, we know you are probably stuck in your home right now as borders remain tightly shut to your favourite destinations.

While virtual safaris may have tided you over these past few months, the real experience of being out in the Botswana bush has never been so elusive.

As the coronavirus/Covid-19 pandemic declines and spikes across the globe, some countries are relooking travel restrictions, others are opening travel bubbles or channels and many are boosting domestic travel opportunities. What is happening in Botswana?

Current travel regulations in Botswana

Botswana went on a countrywide lockdown from the beginning of April and lasted for seven weeks to help contain the spread of the Covid-19 virus in Botswana. Botswana’s National Parks have been open for over a month already following the national lockdown.

Currently, the Government of Botswana has banned entry to all visitors (except residents) from high-risk countries and has not set a date for the resumption for international travel.

Also see our Travel Update: Rivers and Re-openings in Botswana

However ironic it may seem, there’s actucally never been a better time to book your Botswana safari.

Book now because beds are filling fast

Thank you, conscientious travellers. You chose to postpone your travels!

Deferring your trip helped many feed their families and helped aid the ongoing support of local communities here in Botswana.

The global pandemic has shifted viewpoints and habits worldwide. Analysts predict that there will be a surge of travellers looking to get outside again, after having taken travel and the great outdoors for granted. Botswana’s high impact, low volume tourism model, is ideal for visitors seeking socially-distanced stays and destinations free of crowds.

Since travellers deferred their 2020 trips into 2021, availability is becoming tight. Ensure you lock down your dream adventure soon if you wish to travel within the next 18 months.

Book now for great rates

Botswana’s best safari lodges are offering excellent rates. Under One Botswana Sky is offering deals on travel for the rest of 2020, and implemented a price freeze for trips booked going forward.

Domestic travel is open, and Botswana’s most iconic stays are welcoming visitors once again. Chobe Safari Lodge and Nata Lodge have been open for weeks already with all the necessary safety and sanitation precautions in places.

We currently offer special rates for locals (Botswana residents and citizens), which are available until end 2020 for all the Okavango Delta camps and until the end of October for the lodges.

For international guests, we have also fixed our rates so you can travel next year at 2020 pricing.

Book now for a luxury eco-friendly safari

Under One Botswana Sky comprises eight safari lodges and camps set within Botswana’s world-famous safari destinations: the Okavango Delta, the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, Moremi Game Reserve and Chobe National Park.

Each of our Okavango Delta camps is situated in a private concession, offering an exclusive safari experience with a light-on-the-earth footprint.

Our properties offer a comprehensive Botswana experience at a reasonable rate.

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

The post When is it safe to book my next Botswana safari? appeared first on Under One Botswana Sky Blog.

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.

2019 Guests Reveal Why a Botswana Safari is a Must

admin — Mon, 16 Dec 2019 12:27:53 +0000

If you are considering going on a Botswana safari but not sure what it really is all about and whether it is actually worth the investment, then this one is for you. Take a read through what some of guests had to say on TripAdvisor about the safaris they have taken this year to Botswana’s various wilderness destinations.

Chobe Bush Lodge

A fantastic experience

After a long day of travel and a short boat trip to cross into Botswana we were warmly welcomed and immediately sent off on a game drive. Our guide and driver was Kenny and we were soon to be thrilled with our experience. The entrance to the Chobe National Park is close to the hotel so we were soon immersed in elephant, lion, impala, kudu and giraffe. Not to mention dozens of amazing breeds of bird.

On our return we found our huge room, B6, to be bright, airy and very clean. It had large patio doors opening out onto an area of bush so we had impala and warthogs as our neighbours. Dinner was great and the staff were friendly and helpful. We had an early morning visit to the park before a great breakfast.

Written by: Terry H
Home location: Billericay, UK

Chobe Safari Lodge

Excellent customer relations, terrific buffet

The staff are tops. As a single woman, I often receive less attention/consideration than couples or men. To my delight, I was extremely welcomed by not just the Director of Guests but all staff. Easy to book safaris/river cruises; clean rooms with mosquito netting; superb buffets that included a selection of exotic game meats.

Watched warthogs root around while vervet monkeys, baboons, banded mongoose and bushbuck roamed in front of my room. The spa was under remodel so can’t speak for the services. Gorgeous sunsets. Sigh.

Written by: Lisa F
Home location: Unknown

Nata Lodge

Wonderful facilities

Great place to stay for camping. Camping grounds had best facilities we came across in South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe particularly the showers and toilets. Couple of people in our group upgraded to chalets and they looked very good also.

Nice bar and restaurant with friendly staff. They have a pool but it’s very cold and you can only spend a minute or so in it, although it’s refreshing and worth a jump in and out. Great place to explore the salt flats from.

Written by: Jason S
Home location: Melbourne, Australia

Gunn’s Camp

Wonderful wildlife and knowledgeable guides

We came to Gunn’s Camp when the water level was very low, so we went on a boat ride in a channel and on a couple of walks. We saw some amazing wildlife, including a bat-eared fox and a pod of 50-69 hippos. There were so many beautiful birds as well. The guides really knew where to go and how to behave around animals and were so knowledgeable.

The staff were very hospitable and the fruit bats at the entrance were cute. Would love to come back again! I saw a comment by somebody complaining about the lack of field vehicles for safaris (!). This is a place in the middle of the delta, typically with little dry land on which to walk or drive, but spectacular views. This is a unique feature of this area and not a flaw.

Written by: Tbosak
Home location: Massachusetts, USA

Moremi Crossing

Fabulous experience

My husband and I absolutely loved our time at Moremi Crossing. It was more than we could have imagined. The camp was perfect. It was so quiet and connected to the natural environment. We were given a warm greeting by Onks, the Camp Manager. Loved the very personal attention.

Our game guide, Stanley, was wonderful and very knowledgeable as was our spotter, Max. They knew how to find the animals! They showed us 3-week old lion cubs. Also we spent 45 minutes watching a leopard up close. Saw lots of elephants, hippos, cape buffalo, etc and thousands of impalas. I loved the fact that we were virtually alone…6 of us…on our game drives. These great memories will stay with us forever.

Written by: Barbara C
Home location: Edmonton, Canada

Pom Pom Camp

Highlight of our trip

Recently stayed at Pom Pom camp as the first stop of a 3-week holiday. It set the benchmark for the rest of the trip. The staff were super knowledgeable and helpful, the animal life was nothing short of amazing and we still cannot believe how close our guides were able to get us to the unique African animals.

Could not have had a better start to our trip of a lifetime. Incredible!! Loved the atmosphere of the camp, wonderful food, brilliant safari drives… it was all better than expected. Thank you Pom Pom people!!!

Written by: Fusstidious
Home location: Ballina, Australia

Rra Dinare

The iconic African experience!

As the other reviews have mentioned, this camp (posh tents) was truly a memorable experience especially as my first safari adventure and staying away from anything remotely urban!! The tents were very comfortable as mentioned and the outdoor showers were blissful! It was a dreamlike existence with the most delightful staff run by Andy and Dineo who were so caring and thoughtful. We had delicious meals, we were brought hot tea or coffee early morning as our wake up call before a quick breakfast and morning drive.

Then we had a brunch which was wonderful with a colourful variety of dishes along with eggs. Before the afternoon/evening drive we had another small meal and the dinner was served nightly at 8pm. We did see so many animals including leopard and lions!! Graceful giraffes and zebras and impalas!! Everything was perfection!

I would like everyone to have this unique experience! I must also say that the guides were terrific! They had such knowledge and passion!! I had a lot of drives with Amos, Moroko, Sixteen and Emaxx; also Moss for a nature walk!

Written by: Nancy Rose
Home location: London, UK

Mma Dinare

Best experience of our Africa trip

This place was absolutely delightful for our group of 10. The accommodation was superior and on a scale of 10 the staff was 15. They were very friendly, accommodating and fun to be around. The food was very good, varied and interesting. The Co-manager, Mmapula, who was in attendance while the other Manager was away, watched us make Bloody Marys one day after our morning drive and had a tray of them for us after the morning drive the next day without being asked to do so.

The Big 5 were in the area when we visited and some of us saw them as well as cheetahs, and were told that it was unusual to see cheetahs and leopards in the same day which happened in our case. We had such a wonderful time that we want to go back for another visit even though we likely could never replicate the wildlife experiences.

My wife and I have traveled extensively over the years, and are foodies, as well, and this was the next best experience we have had aside from our honeymoon. We had spent 3 nights before the 3 here in a lodge near Kasane, then went to Victoria Falls for one night and then on to Cape Town and wine country for 5 nights before returning to the States.

Written by: Bernie B
Home location: Florida, USA

Feeling inspired now to book your own Botswana safari in the new year? Then chat to us!

The post 2019 Guests Reveal Why a Botswana Safari is a Must appeared first on Under One Botswana Sky Blog.

World Animal Day: Celebrating Botswana’s Beasts and Birds

admin — Wed, 25 Sep 2019 09:10:43 +0000

From the footprints of a big cat and the joyful frolicking of elephants in cool water to the resounding call of the fish eagle above and the kori bustard’s comical walk on the ground below, we celebrate Botswana’s diverse wildlife this World Animal Day.

Poaching and illegal wildlife trafficking are having devastating effects on many of Africa’s wildlife species, with some populations left highly vulnerable to extinction and the health of ecosystems already experiencing the serious knock-on effects. An Africa without animals is an unimaginable reality and on a safari in any of Botswana’s wilderness areas, it is the beasts and birds that steal the show, no matter how big or small.

That is why, this World Animal Day, we take you on a photographic journey of some of Botswana’s incredibly beautiful and diverse wildlife that we are so honoured to experience every time we go exploring into the bush:

Flamingos strut across the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, where they come to breed and rear their chicks when the water levels are just right.

A leopard prowls amidst the dry and bare bushes of its territory in a wintery Moremi Game Reserve, one of the best places in Botswana to witness this exquisite feline.

A herd of buffalo stand alert in south eastern Okavango Delta, a stronghold of these powerful members of the famous Big 5.

A multi-generational elephant family quench their thirst at the shoreline of the Chobe River in Chobe National Park, home to an impressive 120 000 elephants.

Unable to fly away, an ostrich begins to pick up speed running across the flat and dry landscape near the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans.

A lone wildebeest kicks up dust as it crosses a particularly dry area of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans on its way to find good grazing grounds and reliable water.

Contact us for more information on Botswana’s different wilderness areas and which of our properties will best-suit the kind of wildlife safari experience you are dreaming of.

The post World Animal Day: Celebrating Botswana’s Beasts and Birds 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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

Luxury on the Edge of the Chobe National Park

admin — Fri, 28 Apr 2017 12:50:08 +0000

At the very end of the main road in Kasane in northern Botswana is a group of lodges and a campsite owned by Under One Botswana Sky. One of these is the Chobe Bush Lodge which looks out onto the Chobe National Park and for travellers like us, who had thrown away their leaking tent on the first night of a 12-day trip around Botswana, this lodge saved our entire trip.

Our initial trip itinerary included a few places along the way from Gaborone to Kasane and we planned to combine camping with tented accomodation and treat ourselves for a few nights at a lodge as well. We planned to spend a few nights in Kasane at the Chobe Safari Lodge mid-way through our trip, but because of heavy rains and a leaking tent (which we threw away on day 1) we had to change our plans and headed straight for Kasane where we would stay for most of our trip.

We arrived in Kasane at around 18h and our GPS directed us straight to the lodge (or so we thought). At the very end of the main road that runs through Kasane is Chobe Safari Lodge, where we parked our Toyota RAV4, filled with camping gear that wouldn’t be used. We had called a day earlier after our tent had been thrown away and added a few more nights to our previously booked reservation at the lodge, but at the reception we were told that they weren’t expecting us till the following day, but that we could spend our first night at their sister lodge, the Chobe Bush Lodge just across the street and then check in to the Safari Lodge the following day.

The recption & lounge area and curio shop at Chobe Bush Lodge.
Under One Botswana Sky is a group of lodges in Botswana, two of which are the Chobe Safari Lodge and Chobe Bush Lodge. The Safari Lodge is the oldest of the two and is literally on the banks of the Chobe river while the Bush lodge, across the street is merely two years old and looks out on to the Chobe National Park. We checked in to the Bush Lodge and were impressed by the modern design and feel of the lodge while still keeping a natural, bush-theme about it. The room was very clean and had all your basic amenities including satellite TV, coffee/tea facilities, large bathroom with toilet, shower and tub and a large terrace that looked out onto the pool area and outside bar. None of the rooms have fridges, but the staff gladly and quickly brought us a small bar-fridge in which we could keep the food and drink we had brought along on our trip.

The spacious room and comfy bed are quite inviting.
Our room was relatively close to the reception and kitchen area, so the noise was a little irritating (we could hear every detail of the reception’s phone call when someone called), but we figured we’d last the night and move into our room at the Safari Lodge the following morning. We made our way to the restaurant that evening and had some tasty ostrich kebabs before turning in for the night after a full day’s driving.

The next day we strolled over to the Safari Lodge and after having a look at their rooms we decided to in fact stay at the Bush Lodge. While the layout of the rooms is more or less the same and while the Safari Lodge rooms do look out on the Chobe River, we preferred the modern feel of the rooms at the Bush Lodge and the helpful lady at the bookings office said it was no problem at all if we wanted to stay at the Bush Lodge. They even transferred us to another room away from the kitchen and reception area which was much more peaceful. Since both lodges are part of the same “family”, guests at either one can visit and use the facilities of both lodges as well as the Sedudu bar which overlooks the river and is located at the campsite in between the two lodges.

The lounge area in the Chobe Safari Lodge that looks out onto the Chobe River.
Since we hadn’t planned on spending most of our trip staying at the lodge, we had to redirect some of our funds towards the extra nights of accomodation, which meant we couldn’t really enjoy all the meals at the lodges’ restaurants, but this wasn’t a problem at all as there are various other eateries in Kasane that offer great food and aren’t as expensive. The Sedudu bar at the Chobe Bush Lodge has a relaxing, African vibe to it and the Sedudu Island Ice Tea was a favourite cocktail of ours there! The outdoor area has ample space for having drinks, a snack or just lying by the pool and reading a book. The weather didn’t permit for any pool-usage, so our swimming costumes remained dry the whole time, but the pool did look inviting.

The restaurant and bar at Chobe Safari Lodge overlooking the tranquil swimming pool.
The room itself was spacious and elegantly designed with carpetting all round (the rooms in the Safari Lodge had cold tiles all round), a very comfy bed with mosquito nets, a large bath tub and a massive walk-in shower. Room service for food and beverages is available via the phone (we were relatively quickly brought our ice bucket which we ordered for our Amarula* on New Year’s eve), satellite TV with a number of channels, hairdryer and locking safe are all at your disposal as well. The large sliding doors (with mosquito netting included) lead out on to a spacious wooden terrace with a small coffee table and chairs on it, so you can enjoy relaxing moments out there as well with a coffee or beer in hand and listen to the sounds of the bush. We frequently had families of warthog, babooons and even antelope walk past our terrace, foraging for food in the thickets below, not to mention the numerous birds one can observe in the tree tops in front of you as well.

*Amarula is a cream liqueur from South Africa. It is made with sugar, cream and the fruit of the African marula tree.

The large terrace gives you a great view of the bush leading into the Chobe National Park.
The Chobe Bush Lodge has 38 luxury en-suite rooms and 4 large exclusive family rooms. They have a small curio shop (although the one at the Safari Lodge is larger and has more souvenirs to choose from) and one can even borrow an umbrella from the front desk at no extra cost, as we had to do one rainy day when we wanted to go for a walk through Kasane. There is also a small shopping centre very close by where you can find a Choppies supermarket for all your grocery needs. The main booking office for all activities is located at the Safari lodge so you can still arrange all your safari, boat cruise and Victoria Falls day trips through them as well. We did all these activites through another tour operator as they had been recommended to us by friends, but if you want convenience and practicality, then the Chobe Bush Lodge can meet all your needs.

The local baboons are relaxed enough to come pay you a visit.
Since we didn’t plan or budget to spend 6 nights at the lodge, our accomodation ended up being a bit more than we had hoped for, but given our circumstances and how our trip started, we weren’t that perturbed by it. A night at the Chobe Bush Lodge, per room is P1720 (Botswana Pula) or $192 (US Dollar). This does not include breakfast, lunch or dinner. Breakfast is P160 or $27 per person (served from 7am-10am) while lunch and dinner are a la carte.

During our stay there we explored the town of Kasane and saw that there are many other accomodation options, which include campsites, other lodges and even self-catering options as well. Next time we head up to Kasane, we’ll probably give the Chobe Bush Lodge a miss and try one of the other places, probably camping at their campsite or perhaps try one of the self-catering options available in Kasane. Our stay at the Chobe Bush Lodge was indeed exceptional, but it does have a very hotel-esque vibe to it, even though the ambiance around is very rustic and natural and next time (given that we are much better prepared) we’d go for a more “down to earth” kind of experience, so to speak. But if you are planning a trip to Kasane, pamper yourself for at least a couple of nights and relax in the splendour of the Chobe Bush Lodge… just don’t spend too much time there, or you won’t get to experience what camping and overnighting in Botswana are really all about.

Originally published on Road Beneath Our Feet blog.

The post Luxury on the Edge of the Chobe National Park appeared first on Under One Botswana Sky Blog.

Botswana Tour with Saga

admin — Wed, 31 Aug 2016 08:56:54 +0000

You’ll travel by land and river to the Chobe National Park, where you will safari by vehicle and also by boat. Here you can expect to see hundreds of elephants, as well as lions, impala, lechwe, Cape buffalo, hippo, leopards (if you’re lucky) and a truly marvellous array of birdlife.

In Botswana, you’ll stay in Chobe Safari Lodge, where most rooms (in thatched buildings) face on to the vast river, and baboons and warthogs often cross the grass in front of you. There’s a very small pool, a bar and a breezy restaurant, all with views of the Chobe.

The guides in Chobe – taking wildlife tours by land safari and by boats – had a passion for and deep knowledge of the animals, birdlife and landscape that so breathtakingly surrounded us. But it’s a kind of potluck which one you’ll get, and whether they’ll stay with your group for the whole tour.

Orinally published on the Telegraph. Read the full article here.

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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.

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