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Updated Entry Requirements to Botswana for Travel in 2022

admin — Mon, 28 Mar 2022 08:38:05 +0000

Entry requirements to Botswana have been amended in a first for Africa. Perhaps it’s time for a visit? The Botswana government deems full vaccination as the most important requirement for entry to the country and a PCR test is no longer required for vaccinated visitors.

Revised entry requirements for travellers to Botswana was announced and gazetted on 11 February 2022, then further revised on 18 March 2022.

Effective as of 14 February 2022: Fully vaccinated travellers against COVID-19 entering Botswana do not need a negative COVID-19 PCR test result from departure of country of origin, provided proof of vaccination is provided via a vaccination certificate in English at the port of entry to Botswana.

This is excellent news to ease travel costs and logistics for fully vaccinated travellers.

How to visit Botswana if you are fully vaccinated

What is a fully vaccinated profile?

You will be fully vaccinated if you fit the following terms (and thus a negative PCR test not required):

You have received two doses of a two-dose primary series vaccine.
You have received one dose of a single dose primary series vaccine.
As of the most recent government gazette on 18 March 2022, you no longer require a booster shot to be regarded as fully vaccinated.

What if the traveller is partially vaccinated?

Partially vaccinated travellers will be required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result, taken within 72 hours from the departure of the country of origin.

The traveller may also be vaccinated if they are due for their second dose at the port of entry to Botswana.

A Partially Vaccinated traveller profile is one of the following (a negative PCR test is thus required and a second dose or booster will be administered at the port of entry):

You have received one dose of a two-dose primary series vaccine and not yet due for a second dose (vaccine not administered at port of entry)
You have received one dose of a two-dose primary series vaccine and are due for a second dose.

Unvaccinated travellers will be required to produce a negative COVID-19 PCR test result, taken within 72 hours from departure of country of origin, and will be vaccinated with their first dose, at the port of entry to Botswana.

What if the traveller to Botswana is unvaccinated?

If one has no proof of being fully vaccinated, is not willing to be vaccinated at the port of entry, has no negative COVID-19 test result taken 72 hours from departure country of origin, is not willing to be tested at own cost, entry to Botswana will be denied.

Departure requirements (a negative result on a COVID-19 PCR test) remain unchanged.

What are the best places to visit in Botswana?

1. Check into Chobe!

The Chobe National Park became Botswana’s first national park in 1968. Chobe is all about the river and is home to some of Botswana’s best, most varied sightings plus dense concentrations of game.

Our renowned riverside stay, Chobe Safari Lodge, sits closest to this enchanting game park entrance, making for easy access via both river and road.

That means you’ll be the first in and last out to make the most of those precious twilight hours!

To make a reservation at Chobe Safari Lodge call +2676250336 or mail diane@chobesafarilodge.com

2. Marvel at the Makgadikgadi

Botswana’s very own ‘moonscape’. The Makgadikgadi is famous for its white, dry and surreal salt crust. The Nata Bird Sanctuary provides the easiest access to this iconic destination and Nata Lodge blends seamlessly into this surrounding landscape of desert sand, salt pans and vast grass plains dotted by palm islands.

The lodge caters for all travelling styles with 22 thatched chalets and 10 safari tents (both types are en-suite) built on raised wooden platforms as well as a camping site.

Call +2672471112 or email reservations@natalodge.com to book a Makgadikgadi Pans adventure.

3. Explore the Okavango Delta

Think intoxicating sunsets, tranquillity and endless horizons. Your safari at one of Kwando Safaris camps is immersed in the remoteness that is the hallmark of a high-quality wildlife experience.

With a range of camps in different locations, you can explore the boundaries of Moremi Game Reserve, mokoro along the serpentine waters of the Okavango Delta and navigate the abundant plains home to lions, leopards, cheetah and so much more.

Mail info@kwando.co.bw for the latest rates and availability.

4. Discover the Kalahari Desert

This is the largest, most remotely situated reserve in Southern Africa, offering almost exclusive wildlife sightings. Tau Pan Camp is the first semi-permanent camp inside the Central Kalahari Game Reserve and offers truly incredible views from the elevated ridge of an ancient sand dune.

Mail info@kwando.co.bw for the latest rates and availability.

The post Updated Entry Requirements to Botswana for Travel in 2022 appeared first on Under One Botswana Sky Blog.

What is it like to safari in Botswana right now? This family shares everything

admin — Wed, 27 Jan 2021 07:47:19 +0000

In December we were delighted to have a family join us on a Botswana safari all the way from Slovakia. The family of five maximised their trip out from Europe and visited some of the country’s most iconic areas, starting with the inimitable Okavango Delta, crossing over to the Kalahari Central Game reserve and ending with a few days relaxing on the banks of the Chobe River.

We asked them what it was like to travel for a safari right now, during a global pandemic.

1. Where in Botswana did you travel to and why?

After a very tough year which affected us all, we wanted to enjoy our time together as a family in untouched nature. Our biggest aim was to observe animals in their natural habitat without any distractions.

So, we got advice from experts at Under One Botswana Sky and they curated a two-week family-friendly itinerary for us. We spent three nights each at the Kwando Safaris Pom Pom and Splash Camp in the Okavango Delta, Tau Pan Camp in the Central Kalahari and ended with three nights at Chobe Safari Lodge.

2. You two are doctors – what was the toughest part about getting there?

The most stressful thing was waiting at home for the results of PCR tests before our flights! It is necessary to thoroughly prepare for long flight transfers – especially when travelling with kids – so we had to make sure we had enough stocks of masks and disinfectant, basic drugs in case of a headache. We also packed spare clothes in our hand luggage.

3. What was the highlight of your trip?

We saw so much more than we expected. In Slovakia, you usually have to be very lucky to see and observe wildlife up close. So we were amazed about the intimate, but safe, encounters we had in the game drive vehicles.

4. Any favorite sightings?

When I asked the children, they said they liked everything. The same applies to us! We lived and experienced every moment intensely. Observing the nature and behaviour of animals in their natural environment is very liberating.

Whether it’s herds of antelope and zebras, giraffes, elephants or hippos, or the confident movement of lions, leopards, wild dogs, cheetah and hyenas.

Also read: 10 Awesome bucket list reasons to travel to Botswana

5. Any surprises out on safari?

We were most amazed by the amount of knowledge the expert guides shared with us. They tirelessly explained everything to us – geography, zoology, botany, animal tracking.

6. How did your children feel about travelling and new airport protocols?

Children must be able to understand cautious behaviour today. They must also be of the age to be prepared in advance for possible complications and disappointments. It is important to be aware of the level of travel risk. We also had insurance for medical expenses in the event of hospitalization and in the event of illness from COVID-19 to cover any quarantine accommodation and meals.

Also read: Wild Child: Safari-Inspired Schooling

The risk is not much higher than if you stayed at home, moving to the places where you normally go. Of course, you can stay at home without contact with other people, but coronavirus COVID-19 is not the only pathogen in the world to be feared. We couldn’t do that at all. It is necessary to protect yourself, and especially in public transport always (after all, you can catch not only the coronavirus there). So wearing a mask and frequent hand disinfection are the key.

We found people of Botswana very disciplined and cautious in terms of following all health and safety regulations.

8. Any advice for others?

Prepare thoroughly in advance. From the necessary vaccinations, through to prophylaxis for malaria, to the pack correctly. Study the conditions of entry into the countries you will pass through, but most importantly, get advice from people who know the country well!

Book a family safari to Botswana
Book with your dedicated Under One Botswana Sky reservations consultant or via marketing@underonebotswanasky.com

Also read: When is it safe to book my next safari?

The post What is it like to safari in Botswana right now? This family shares everything appeared first on Under One Botswana Sky Blog.

Travel Report: An Official Botswana Border Update

admin — Tue, 10 Nov 2020 15:13:04 +0000

Exciting news! An official Botswana Government press release announced the resumption of international travel to Botswana. Here’s everything you need to know.

Starting from 9 November 2020, Botswana president Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi approved the lifting of international travel restrictions in a phased manner.

Also read: Rivers and reopenings in Botswana.

When can I fly into Botswana?

On the 9th of November, 2020, air travel will resume to Sir Seretse Khama International Airport in Gaborone, Kasane International Airport and Maun International Airport. Furthermore, international air travel will resume on the 1st of December, 2020 at Phillip G. Matante International Airport in Francistown.

The Air Botswana Board announced re-commencement of its scheduled regional operations effective from 10 November 2020. Air Botswana will initially offer four weekly flights between Gaborone and Johannesburg, but these will be adjusted based on travel demand. This is taking into account the prevalent travel conditions and protocols, still to be adhered to. Other regional destinations will be gradually introduced, including Cape Town, Harare and Lusaka.

Airlink is also flying into Botswana and will resume operations between its hub, Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport, and Botswana’s capital city Gaborone on 16 November 2020. Two more Botswana routes will be reactivated next month, namely Johannesburg-Maun (from 1 December) and Johannesburg-Kasane (from 16 December).

Once on the ground, air transfers are available into the Okavango Delta to access our remote, eco-friendly lodges.

When can I self-drive into Botswana

On the 1st of December, 2020, Ground Crossing will resume at the commercial border points of Kazungula road, Kazungula ferry, Ngoma, Ramokgwebana, Martins Drift, Ramatlabama, Tlokweng, Mamuno, Pioneer and Mohembo. The remaining Points of Entry will be considered in due course subject to disease burden and harmonization with other neighbouring countries.

What do I need to do before travelling to Botswana?

All arriving travellers will be expected to meet the following requirements:
a) Present a valid 72 Hour negative COVID-19 Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) result from time of departure.
b) Screened for COVID-19 symptoms upon entry.
c) Symptomatic clients upon arrival will be required to undertake mandatory testing and possible isolation and or quarantine, as per section 76 (1) (2) and 80 of the Public Health Act of 2013.
d) The traveller will be required to remain in contact with the local health authority for a period of 14 days doing self-monitoring.
e) Travellers exiting Botswana are expected to comply with travel regulations of the destination country at their own expense.

Are there any special SADC rates in Botswana?

All Under One Botswana Sky lodges, plus our sister properties at Kwando Safaris, are open for business and have incredible deals for SADC travellers available right now.

Keep up to date with our latest offers by following us on Facebook.

To book and get current rates, please email marketing@underonebotswanasky.com

The post Travel Report: An Official Botswana Border Update appeared first on Under One Botswana Sky Blog.

Wild Child: Safari-Inspired Schooling

admin — Tue, 21 Jul 2020 11:40:39 +0000

While you can’t take your family on an adventure right now, you can keep the spirit of safari alive at home.

Here are some of our favourite safari-school resources for the wild child stuck inside.

These educational toolkits, quizzes, videos and colouring in printables are sure to keep your little conservationist excited about the bush and inspire your next family safari to Botswana. After all, adventure is life’s greatest teacher.

Do a World Wildlife Fund Quiz

How much do your children know about their favourite animals? These WWF quizzes on elephants and rhinos expose older kids (and adults, you might enjoy this one too!) to facts and figures that are sure to fire up their conservation curiosity.

Find all the WWF quiz information here.

Teaching tip: WWF has a whole Wild Classroom toolkit. From weekly exercises to species-specific kits (we highly recommend the elephant toolkit!) that even come with a certificate of completion.

Choose a New Big 5

The New Big 5 project is an international initiative to create a New Big 5 of wildlife. Traditionally, the Big Five is based on the five toughest animals in Africa for colonial hunters to shoot and kill, namely the Cape Buffalo, African Elephant, Rhinoceros, Lion and Leopard.

Today, a new international initiative (supported by more than 100 photographers, conservationists and wildlife lovers, including Dr Jane Goodall, Ami Vitale and Steve McCurry) is looking for the next Big Five.

Get the kids involved and ask them to choose their favourite animals. They will learn about Africa’s lesser-known species when voting on www.newbig5.com for the five creatures they want to see on safari. There is also a super Animal Adventure Fun Pack that aids in their new Big Five education

Teaching tip: The Pangolin is on the tentative list for this new Big 5. Watch Eye of the Pangolin for free on Youtube to learn more about this extraordinary species. The documentary takes kids to remote locations on the African continent, from arid savannah and the Kalahari desert to exotic jungles in the search for the four elusive pangolin species.

Take a Tracking Lesson

Our sister company, Kwando Safaris, is renowned for skills in tracking animals. Here’s a short lesson in understanding elephant tracks.

The guide and tracker combination on every game drive is an essential ingredient to our safaris. Two sets of roving eyes and keen ears make it much easier to translate the wild world.

Colour in the Okavango Delta

Inspired by The Adventures of Tintin, Duncan Butchart created a series of vintage-style posters of iconic African destinations. You can download his Okavango Delta and Botswana illustrations for free to print and colour in at home.

Artwork by Duncan Butchart.

The handsome antelope taking pride of place in the centre is a Red Lechwe, commonly seen leaping in the waters of the Okavango. There’s also a lovely depiction of Victoria Falls, which is an easy day trip from Chobe Safari Lodge.

Teaching tip: Got a tiny twitcher in the family? Birdlife South Africa has a super resource kit, which includes colouring pages, about their bird of the year, the Southern Ground Hornbill. Learn about this endangered creature, a big bird found across Botswana too.

Make a Salt Pan Pizza

Like riddles? Well, what do the Makgadikgadi and pizza have in common?

They’re both flat and contain a sprinkling of salt. Survival is another essential safari skill. Keep hands and tummies full with this easy DIY pizza recipe from the Indaba Hotel.

Build a pair of DIY Binoculars

Sure to inspire your budding little game rangers. All you need is two cardboard toilet roll inners, a stretch of string and a piece of fun safari print paper. The kids can make several pairs and get as elaborate as they like: use ribbons for the strap, colour in zebra skin detail and create a scavenger hunt list around the house. There are heaps of ideas and inspiration on Pinterest.

Photo by Crafting Cheerfully

Teaching tip: Create a scavenger hunt list at home to get kids into photography. Use a smartphone or tablet (nothing fancy) and kickstart the list with the instruction to photograph things around the house of colour. For example, get them to snap all things green, inspired by the Okavango Delta.

Also read: Check out this list of proudly Botswana beats, books, flicks and photographers. Not only will it satisfy those itchy feet but also prepare the family for adventures to come.

How to plan your family safari to Botswana

Botswana is educational, interactive and an ideal family safari destination. Firstly, we have well-equipped accommodation and activities. Secondly, our private concessions have low guest numbers, which allows greater flexibility so we can better cater to your family safari needs.

In addition, children’s programmes are available and vary for each family, based on the ages and interests of the children. From fishing adventures to exciting night drives and mokoro outings, we aim to involve the children in all aspects of the safari safely. Our expert guides and camp hospitality team will make your family safari in Botswana unforgettable!

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.

The family suite at Mma Dinare Lodge has an adjoining children’s room

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 Wild Child: Safari-Inspired Schooling 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

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.

Botswana: A Top Travel Destination in 2020

admin — Wed, 29 Jan 2020 11:05:34 +0000

The international travel and tourism industry has weighed in on which are the top travel destination candidates in 2020 and Botswana has once again been awarded a well-deserved spot on that list.

A land of remote and contrasting wilderness regions, where ticking clocks are replaced by the rising and setting of the sun as the best times for game and bird watching, Botswana has always been one of the – if not the – top travel destinations in Southern Africa for newbies and long-time enthusiasts that want an authentic wildlife safari experience.

“While many southern African countries monetized the safari as an economy of scale, Botswana leaned into exclusivity instead of volume, championing singular, upmarket experiences for the few instead of midrange camps for the many. The strategy paid off as the peaceful nation has garnered an international reputation for its roaring population of wildlife versus a small huddle of tourists” – Harper’s Bazaar, 30 December 2019

Quality over quantity

As referred to by Harper’s Bazaar above, Botswana’s ‘quality over quantity’ ethos has ensured that the wildlife safari experience here has remained true to its origins. So, for example, exploring the bush and encountering wildlife within the private concessions of the Okavango Delta is not marred by the exhaust fumes, clicking cameras and blocked visibility of other 4x4s that can often define a safari in other countries.

Small, open-sided vehicles give all guests good views of the Okavango Delta without negatively impacting on the wildlife they encounter © Melanie van Zyl

Tourism done responsibly

It is this particular approach taken by the government and travel industry that has made Botswana stand out from its neighbours in a way that really counts. Sustainable and responsible tourism initiatives form an integral part of each safari lodge and camp’s investment into community empowerment, wildlife conservation and ecosystem protection.

African wild dogs are one of sub-Saharan Africa’s most endangered species so refuges like Moremi Game Reserve in the Okavango Delta are key to their survival © Melanie van Zyl

Wildlife comes first

On the whole, regulations regarding human activity and property development in Botswana’s key wilderness areas are consistently enforced, which results in high standards within the safari industry. For instance, boating on the Chobe River does not disturb the goings on of aquatic animal and bird life as accessibility to this important ecosystem is limited and regulated.

Hippos and other wildlife in the Chobe River are not encroached upon and trained guides understand animal behaviours so as to change course if necessary © Melanie van Zyl

Luxury with respect

Safari camps and lodges ensure guests are afforded modern luxuries but not at the expense of the surrounding environment. Properties are generally small and unfenced so that animals’ natural pathways and access to food and water are, as far as possible, not blocked. Guests are briefed on safari etiquette that is applied when at their accommodation and out in the bush walking, driving or boating.

The ability of animals to roam being freely in their natural habitats is vital for them and a welcome sight by guests at their safari accommodation © Melanie van Zyl

We love Botswana and are confident that you will from your very first safari in its magical wilderness areas. Chat to us if you want to experience this top travel destination in 2020.

Feature image courtesy of Melanie van Zyl.

The post Botswana: A Top Travel Destination in 2020 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.

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Celebrating 60 Years of Safari at Chobe Safari Lodge

admin — Tue, 30 Apr 2019 12:08:51 +0000

Famous for its outstanding tourism and precious gems, this year Botswana’s essential qualities collide just outside Chobe National Park – 2019 marks the Diamond Jubilee for a heritage property, Chobe Safari Lodge.

Botswana Heritage Stay Celebrates 60 Years of Safari

Images and text courtesy of Botswana’s National Archives.

Kasane’s oldest tourism offering, Chobe Safari Lodge is a landmark establishment on the border of Botswana’s first and oldest national park. Celebrating 60 years of service this year, the iconic riverfront stay has long worn a sign at the entrance announcing a birthdate of 1959.

However, Botswana’s National Archives reveal that the very first hotel application was actually put forward almost 30 years earlier.

Introducing the Chobe River Hotel

Following the successful establishment 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.

Images and text courtesy of Botswana’s National Archives.

The 80-year old archival letters also divulge early ties to the nearby Victoria Falls Hotel in Zimbabwe. Under 100 kilometres away, suggestions recommended the two lodgings link up so that intrepid visitors might relive David Livingstone’s journey to Mosi-oa-Tunya, catch a feisty tiger fish in the mighty Chobe River and explore Botswana’s pristine wilds.
Charles Rey wrote,

“The Kruger Park pays well, so there is no reason why we should not achieve something of the sort. We have several great natural advantages … game of great variety and in large quantities, excellent fishing in the Zambesi and Chobe Rivers; there are mineral hot water springs between Kasane and Kazungula; in the fourth place, we have not got to look for tourists. They already go to the Victoria Falls Hotel, where they have not much to do beyond looking at the falls”.

However, the lasting effects of two world wars and accompanying financial pressures never saw this reality emerge until one Mr Charles Trevor and his wife, Ethnee Holmes à Court, gained interest again in 1959 – the Chobe River Hotel was born.

Images and text courtesy of Botswana’s National Archives.

A brief history of Chobe Safari Lodge

The earliest hotel brochure lists prices in British shillings and states “Tourist Camp, Bar, Al Fresco Restaurant – open” and that nearby, there is “plenty game, bit shy!” A night at the Chobe River Hotel cost just 15 shillings per hut (roughly equivalent to BWP 220 today).

Fortunately, following the independence of Botswana in 1966, the Chobe Game Reserve was officially proclaimed as a National Park in 1968, thus safeguarding the future of this ‘shy game’.

“Unspoilt Botswana!” declares a later, 44-year old brochure. “The expansive Chobe National Park, teeming with free-roaming wildlife. Here is the Africa of your dreams!”. From May 1972, the hotel was known as Chobe Safari Lodge, “Botswana’s year around safari resort”.

Images and text courtesy of Botswana’s National Archives.

Many things change, but mercifully, many things don’t. What began as a distant outpost in northern Botswana has transformed into a thriving tourist hub. Kasane has mushroomed in the 60 years since the town’s first hotel opened for business. Today there are over 30 accommodation options in town. However, Chobe National Park remains a wildlife haven harbouring Botswana’s densest concentration of wildlife.

Chobe Safari Lodge today

Home to the unusual African Quadripoint – the only place in the world where four countries meet – and famed as the unofficial elephant capital of Botswana, Kasane and the wider Chobe region continues to lure globetrotters. Where else on earth can one see elephants snorkelling across the water and witness the wild on an afternoon river safari? Precious Puku find safety on the floodplains and the unique African Skimmers shelter on riverine island sandbanks. The handsome and endemic Chobe Bushbuck still treads between the chalets at Chobe Safari Lodge and warthogs mow across the lawns too.

A Chobe Bushbuck at Chobe Safari Lodge.

Those early ties with Victoria Falls still continue. Visitors today keep enjoying easy day trips to the magnificent World Wonder in neighbouring Zimbabwe. This regional consolidation can only strengthen more with the enterprising construction of the new Kazungula Bridge into Zambia and further fortify with the introduction of the Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Area (KAZA) visa.

There are eight original rondavels at Chobe Safari Lodge.

Chobe Safari Lodge remains the ideal expedition base for forays into Botswana’s first national park. Founded in 1959, what started as six simple chalets now boasts 81 rooms combining convenience with quality. You can still book into one of the original 1960’s era rondavels. Each unit is modern on the inside but retains a traditional safari feel on the outside. They are also blessed with views over the enchanting Chobe River.

Newly revamped, the interiors of the rondavels have been modernised.

A hippo’s lifespan is typically 40–50 years. Maybe this one remembers older days on the Chobe River.

Stay at Chobe Safari Lodge

A true, trusted establishment in Kasane, 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. The Chobe Safari Lodge has been under its current ownership since 1989 – a coincidental anniversary of 20 years. The stylish Chobe Bush Lodge has since joined the Under One Botswana Sky collection, opening doors in 2015. Chobe Bush Lodge features more contemporary design and is a more intimate, modern stay. Riverine views are a short walk away and the quieter setting offers a more relaxed stay.

Also read: 5 Unusual Things to do in Chobe

The post Celebrating 60 Years of Safari at Chobe Safari Lodge appeared first on Under One Botswana Sky Blog.

3 Reasons Why We Think Botswana is the Best African Safari Destination

admin — Fri, 27 Jul 2018 08:40:50 +0000

Offering a diverse safari experience throughout the year, it’s no wonder Botswana is a top African safari destination.

Botswana is visited annually by people from around the world who are eager to float alongside the elephants and hippos of the Okavango Delta floodplains and, from the comfort of their safari vehicle, witness big cats prowling for antelopes in the Chobe National Park.

While there are many reasons why we think Botswana is the world’s most special safari destination, we’ve narrowed it down to our top three.

Impressive biodiversity

Botswana is home to all of the Big 5 @ Under One Botswana Sky

A trip to Botswana offers an extensive mix of plant and animal life as a result of different habitats occurring in the delta. There is a wide range of national parks and game reserves that cover these various environments, affording safari-goers a remarkable variety in game-viewing.

From the elevated viewpoints at the Chobe Bush Lodge, you’ll get to see hippos and crocodiles hunting in the Chobe River. Venture out in open safari vehicles from Nata Lodge to be entranced by flamingos dancing across the vast salt pans and herds of herbivores roaming the grasslands of the Greater Makgadikgadi Pans.

If you want to see all of the Big 5 in one African safari, Botswana is definitely the best place to do so.

Distinctive mobility

Not only is the wildlife on offer in Botswana diverse, so too is the way you can see it. There are multiple distinct modes of transport to choose from when going on a safari in African bush.

Take to the footpaths, where your local guide will teach you the ins and outs of spoor tracking and take you to stunning bird-watching spots. Recently built in the South Eastern part of the Okavango, Rra Dinare and Mma Dinare offer guided nature walks when the season permits.

To have the truly authentic Botswana experience, hop into a mokoro – a locally-made canoe hollowed out from wood – from Gunns Camp and glide through the waterways of the Okavango Delta. Your guide will pole you through the channels to view elephants, waterbuck and the rare Red Lechwe.

Botswana also boasts beautiful sunsets and you can have a front row seat to this spectacular sight on a sunset boat cruise. You do not want to miss out on this highly rated safari activity at Chobe Safari Lodge.

GDHP1 on Tripadvisor had this to say on their 2017 trip to Botswana: “Seeing animals from the sundowner boat cruise on the Chobe River provided a different and equally exciting experience: elephants swimming across the river and greeting each other as long-lost friends, huge herds of buffalo, crocodile, sunset on the river”.

Sustainable tourism

By doing tourism sustainably in Botswana, camps like Moremi Crossing support a healthy and protected environment by being built with a modern and eco-friendly focus. It helps to reduce its environmental impact by using solar and waste disposal technology.

In order for the Chobe National Park to maintain the highest concentration of African Elephants globally, and for the country as a whole to successfully rebuild its rhino population, such initiatives are critical contributions to local wildlife conservation.

Because of its unique and varied safari opportunities, Botswana is a much-loved destination by first-time and repeat travellers to Africa. If you haven’t already been, we think you’re missing out.

The post 3 Reasons Why We Think Botswana is the Best African Safari Destination appeared first on Under One Botswana Sky Blog.

News Archives | Blog

Updated Entry Requirements to Botswana for Travel in 2022

How to visit Botswana if you are fully vaccinated

What is a fully vaccinated profile?

What if the traveller is partially vaccinated?

What if the traveller to Botswana is unvaccinated?

What are the best places to visit in Botswana?

1. Check into Chobe!

2. Marvel at the Makgadikgadi

3. Explore the Okavango Delta

4. Discover the Kalahari Desert

What is it like to safari in Botswana right now? This family shares everything

1. Where in Botswana did you travel to and why?

Travel Report: An Official Botswana Border Update

When can I fly into Botswana?

When can I self-drive into Botswana

What do I need to do before travelling to Botswana?

Are there any special SADC rates in Botswana?

To book and get current rates, please email marketing@underonebotswanasky.com

Wild Child: Safari-Inspired Schooling

Do a World Wildlife Fund Quiz

Also read: When is it safe to book my next Botswana safari?

Choose a New Big 5

Take a Tracking Lesson

Colour in the Okavango Delta

Make a Salt Pan Pizza

Build a pair of DIY Binoculars

How to plan your family safari to Botswana

When is it safe to book my next Botswana safari?

Current travel regulations in Botswana

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

Book now because beds are filling fast

Book now for great rates

Book now for a luxury eco-friendly safari

Travel Update: Rivers and Re-openings in Botswana

Chobe Safari Lodge and Chobe Bush Lodge Update

Okavango Delta Water Levels 2020

Moremi Crossing and Gunns Camp Report

Mma Dinare and Rra Dinare Lodge Report

Nata Bird Sanctuary Report

Botswana: A Top Travel Destination in 2020

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

Celebrating 60 Years of Safari at Chobe Safari Lodge

Botswana Heritage Stay Celebrates 60 Years of Safari

Introducing the Chobe River Hotel

A brief history of Chobe Safari Lodge

Chobe Safari Lodge today

Stay at Chobe Safari Lodge

Also read: 5 Unusual Things to do in Chobe

3 Reasons Why We Think Botswana is the Best African Safari Destination