Botswana travel Archives - Under One Botswana Sky Blog

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.

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.

In the Press: The Hungry Tourist’s Guide to Kasane

admin — Thu, 22 Nov 2018 12:50:14 +0000

In the 2018/2019 edition of Go! Botswana travel guide, renowned travel writer, Toast Coetzer, reviews the top spots for hungry tourists to pull into when in Kasane, and Chobe Bush Lodge makes the cut! We’ve included just a snippet from the published review, so if you want to read on you’ll need to grab a copy of the magazine in-store or online.

Kasane is wild enough that you might see an elephant in the street, but developed enough to have three shopping centres (one even has a Nando’s drive-thru). It’s your base for trips to the adjacent Chobe National Park, to Vic Falls in Zimbabwe or to Livingstone in Zambia. But first, lunch! Here’s where to eat.

Chobe Bush Lodge

Chobe Bush Lodge is part of Chobe Safari Lodge across the road. The restaurant at Bush Lodge is usually quieter and you won’t have to wait for a table for breakfast or lunch. (Book beforehand for dinner.)

What’s on the menu? All the right stuff, from a Greek salad – you’ve been craving something green, haven’t you? -and chicken schnitzel and chips, to a beef burger with cheese, bacon and egg. If you want to go big, order the Bush Grill platter, which has chicken drumsticks, Greek meatballs, pork ribs, salad and chips. End the meal with a slice of cheesecake. That’s the lunch menu! The dinner menu has even heartier meals.

What else? If you want a river view, cross the road to Chobe Safari Lodge. (It’s busier.)

Where? On the western tip of Kasane, where the tar road ends.

Opening times: Breakfast from 7am to 10:30am; other meals from 10:30am to 9:30pm.

Thanks to Go! Botswana and Toast for featuring Chobe Bush Lodge as one of the best establishments to eat at in Kasane. Contact us for more information on our lodges and camps in Chobe National Park.

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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.

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Mesmerising Skies in Botswana

admin — Fri, 20 Apr 2018 13:42:04 +0000

One of the most memorable aspects of your safari in Botswana will be the mesmerising skies.

No sky is ever the same on safari in Botswana and just when you think it can’t get any more beautiful, Mother Nature proves you wrong. Prepare to be amazed by the magical skies in Botswana, from the break of dawn to the magical golden hour when the sun sets.

Here are a few of our favourite photos of the incredible skies in Botswana from our guests:

©John Finch

©Leon de Wet

Get in touch with us to book your safari in Botswana, and experience these magical settings for yourself.

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A Botswana Camping Adventure by Bushbaby Travel Blog

admin — Fri, 13 Apr 2018 09:14:36 +0000

Highlights from the Bushbaby Travel Blog‘s Botswana self-drive camping trip.

A 4am wakeup call is only okay when the reason for it is a holiday. On the 19^th of July 2017, this was how our day and our incredible Botswana trip started and we welcomed that alarm clock chime. We tackled the very long drive from Johannesburg to Nata (886kms). Our excited anticipation got us going and later the emotional support from each other over our little 2 way radios and the energy from snacks and energy drinks got us through that final stretch. We were a herd of four and two trusty 4×4’s, heading off to explore Botswana on a self-drive camping holiday.

We entered Botswana via the small Stockpoort border post, just after Lephalale. No queues, no issues and recommended as our preferred way into the county. From there it was onwards to Francistown and then to Nata. We finally arrived at our happy place, Nata Bird Sanctuary, just before 5pm and in time for sunset over the Makgadikgadi Pans. It’s an especially significant spot to Graham and me as it’s where we got engaged in 2013 (More on that story here) and is a setting we wanted to share with my folks too. Graham exclaimed that our return to it and to our beloved Botswana felt like coming home.

Toasting our first Botswana sunset at the Nata Bird Sanctuary pan. ©Kelly Robertson

Sunset at Nata Bird Sanctuary, A scene with so much water, it looked like an ocean sunset. ©Kelly Robertson

It was tranquillity personified as the setting sun painted that scene pink and pelicans and flamingos danced by before their bedtime. It was the most perfect welcome to Botswana. We were there!

Capturing the magic of this special place – Nata Bird Sanctuary. ©Kelly Robertson

On a previous visit to the Nata Bird Sanctuary we had camped near the platform on the pans, which was such a memorable experience. However, the sanctuary no longer allows this as they work to conserve that natural place and keep the human footprint to a minimum.

A view of the Makgadikgadi Pans from the roof rack. ©Kelly Robertson

Instead we headed to the convenient, secure and wonderfully managed Nata Lodge, just up the road, for our first night’s camping and our first sleep in our rooftop tents. We were visited by the bushbabies at night as they jumped from tree branches to our tents and beyond. We also indulged in a hearty breakfast at the lodge the next morning before moving off in search of wild adventures.

Camping in our tropical campsite oasis at Nata Lodge. ©Kelly Robertson

Read the full article here.

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Saying ‘Yes’ in Botswana-a guest post by Kelly Kidson

admin — Wed, 13 Dec 2017 13:50:28 +0000

Kelly Kidson (now Robertson) shares her magical Botswana engagement love story.

What’s the most romantic place on earth you ask? I’d answer without a second thought: ‘It’s Botswana!’ The romance of Botswana is unquestionable. And it was the perfect setting to be asked the most important and ‘butterflies-in-my-tummy’ filled question of my life.

Sunset at the platform in the Magadigadi salt pans © Kelly Robertson

It was the 21st of March, and we were at our happy place. The whiteness of the Makgadikgadi salt pan sands encircled us, interspersed with honey-gold tufts of Botswana grassveld. We dotted that landscape – the only two human dots there. Beside Sowa Pan, its salty water waters licking softly at the shore, he was down on one knee looking up at me with wide eyes and I gasped… loudly. My hands flew to my cheeks in surprise and wordless delight as I realised what was happening. In the next breath I found my voice and repeated the answer from behind the widest grin and tear-blinking eyes. ‘Yes! Of course, yes!’ I shrieked as he placed the one-of-a-kind ring on my waiting finger. He swung me around in his arms, between kisses, giggling and overwhelming happiness.

Engaged!!! ©Kelly Robertson

Too nauseatingly gushy for you? Tough! That’s exactly how it all happened and I haven’t been able to wipe the monkey smile off my face since. If I’m writing like we’re in a Mills and Boons novel set in the pans then I’m ok with that. I was proposed to in my favourite place by the love of my life. I’m completely caught up in the romance of it all so just give into it and share the mushy romance. It’s real.

It was a moment I’ll rewind and watch over and over again in my mind forever. A moment that was ours alone; witnessed only by a solitary pelican on the water, a flock of flamingos that flew over at sunset and a few wildebeest in the far background. It couldn’t have been more perfect. It couldn’t have been anywhere else but Botswana. The exact spot in the Makgadikgadi Pans, where our engagement took place is special to us. It’s on the sandy shoreline at the ‘platform’- a small elevated wooden viewpoint structure next to one of the largest bodies of water within the Nata Bird Sanctuary.

Sowa Pan, Nata Bird Sanctuary © Kelly Robertson

The water is ocean-like in its vastness and from that spot near the platform; you can’t see its end. Birdlife is plentiful and busy, and that’s the only thing that bustles there. It’s quiet. It’s remote. And it’s oh-so-romantic in its wildness and natural beauty.

Just over 3 years before this, we discovered this spot. We were on our first trip as a new couple and on our first night in Botswana we bush-camped right there, at our future engagement site. Similarly, we were the only two humans around then and had the expanse of natural wonderment all to ourselves. We were in awe of it then and on our return trip we felt the same sense of amazement and the feeling that we were part of that landscape.

The rest of our trip transformed into a romantic engagement holiday where we celebrated in our own bush-loving way at each stop. We traversed through the flat, wild and intoxicating landscape that is elephant country from Nata to Kasane, onto a houseboat on the Chobe River and then into the Chobe National Park . We then headed back to the South African border by camping at some incredible spots.

The Botswana bush is wild at heart and murmurs of constant adventure. Sunsets are more vivid and command silence and reflection and the sundowners at the best time of day taste better. It’s the perfect setting for an African love story.

Date in the sand ©Kelly Robertson

Planning a romantic getaway in Botswana?

Kelly Recommends…

Nata Lodge: We were spoilt with champagne, congratulations and chilled bushveld recuperation at Nata Lodge. We especially loved staying in a safari tent there. Ours was next to a giant termite mound and boasted the most romantic outdoor shower too. Nata Lodge is an absolute must as a stop over stop on route towards Chobe whether you camp or treat yourselves to a night in the rustic safari accommodation options. They also offer pan drives as an extra activity and we went on a guided drive through the Nata Bird Sanctuary as part of our stay. Stay for 2 nights if you can.

Original article published on Bushbound Girl. Read the full article here.

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10 Reasons why you need to visit Botswana

admin — Tue, 31 Oct 2017 12:42:18 +0000

Botswana is the ultimate safari destination .

Dubbed the ultimate safari destination, Botswana is a paradise for travellers wanting to experience the true essence of an African safari. From exciting activities to unforgettable experiences, Botswana has it all.

Here are 10 reasons to consider beautiful Botswana for your next safari in Africa:

1. A Birding Paradise

Over 500 species have been recorded in Botswana’s wide range of habitats, making Botswana a paradise for any avid birdwatcher. Birdwatching in the open floodplains is generally easier and better than in rainforest regions where thick vegetation and high forest canopies seriously limit sightings.

Oliver Martin photographed Botswana’s national bird, the lilac-breasted roller.

2. The Elephants in Chobe National Park

If you want to see elephants on safari then Chobe National Park in Botswana is the place to be. This park is renowned for being home to the world’s largest concentration of elephants in Africa (estimated 120 000) and the largest continuous surviving elephant population on Earth.

Elephants photographed by Reto Boltshauser

3. Eco Friendly Accommodation

‘Going green’ on safari is easy when you are in Botswana as most camps are 100% eco-friendly, for example, our camp Moremi Crossing. Moremi Crossing features the latest in solar and waste disposal technology, enabling guests to enjoy their safari knowing that they have had little to no negative impact on the environment.

4. You Don’t Have to Go Far to See Wildlife

The great thing about a safari in Botswana is that most of the camps embrace their natural surroundings without fences, allowing the wildlife to roam free in their natural habitat. Elevated walkways at our new camp, Rra Dinare, link the rooms to the main lodge, except for the last two units on the northern end where the path drops down to the ground level allowing the passing game to stroll through. The resident Buffalo dagga boys are a common sight around camp, hence the name Rra Dinare which means Father Buffalo in the native language.

Buffalo at Rra Dinare

5. Mokoro Trips

You don’t have to be stuck in a game vehicle to explore the wildlife in Botswana. A safari by mokoro (dug-out canoe) is an activity not to be missed while on safari in Botswana. Imagine the joy of gently meandering through the exquisite watery paradise, with only the call of the fish eagle to break the tranquillity.

6. Sunsets

The sunsets in Botswana are something that cannot be explained. They simply must be experienced first-hand to fully grasp the true beauty. During the magical golden hour (dusk) the sky appears to be on fire as it bursts to life in hues of bright orange, red, pink and yellow. It is a sight best enjoyed with a traditional sundowner drink in hand.

Sunset captured by Gerda Robbertse

7. The Okavango Delta

The Okavango Delta is one of Botswana’s major tourist attractions. It is known for its extensive grassy plains, which flood seasonally, becoming a lush watery animal habitat. It is surreal to watch how animals adapt to their wet surrounding. Elephants are often seen swimming from island to island in search of more lush vegetation to devour, and the lions even learn to hunt in the shallow waters.

8. The Wildlife

Home to a variety of fascinating wildlife species including the iconic Big five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino), as well as a vast number of different kinds of antelopes, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos and so much more, Botswana is arguably the best place to visit to see wild animals in their natural habitat. It’s simple really: if you love wildlife, you’ll love Botswana.

Lions on the hunt in Botswana photographed by Reto Boltshauser

9. The weather

The weather in Botswana is mostly sunny throughout the year with colder nights during the Winter months and occasional afternoon showers during the Summer months.

10. Zebra migrations

The Serengeti has the big migration of the wildebeest and Botswana has the zebra migration. The annual zebra migration takes place around November every year, and it is a spectacular sight. At the beginning of the rainy season, up to 25,000 zebras start their migration through the Makgadikgadi and Nxai Pan National Parks in search of water and lush grazing grounds.

Botswana offers travellers an unforgettable experience that only very few places in Africa can match.

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The Magic of Botswana Photo Contest Winners

admin — Wed, 18 Oct 2017 08:06:43 +0000

The Magic of Botswana photo contest celebrating Botswana as the ultimate safari destination has come to an end.

The Under One Botswana Sky team is happy to announce the worthy winners of The Magic of Botswana Photo Contest. It was not an easy task picking the winning photos as all the entries captured the true essence and magic of Botswana perfectly.

Here are the winning photos:

Third Place

Picture by Andrew Barton

Picture by Andrew Barton captured on safari at Chobe Safari Lodge. Andrew won a canvas print of this incredible picture.

Second Place

Picture by Mario Madl

Picture by Mario Madl while staying at Chobe Bush Lodge. Mario won two nights for 2 people sharing at one of our properties.

And the winning picture…

Picture by Jacques Hansel

This 1^st place photo was captured by the talented Jacques Hansel while on safari at Pom Pom Camp. Jacques won two nights at two different Under One Botswana Sky properties – four nights total for 2 people sharing.

Congratulations to the winners! The team will be in contact with you soon.

Thank you for all the awe-inspiring photo entries Under One Botswana Sky has received.

Have a look at all the entries here.

The post The Magic of Botswana Photo Contest Winners appeared first on Under One Botswana Sky Blog.

African paradise: Chobe Bush Lodge

admin — Thu, 14 Sep 2017 09:46:09 +0000

I thought as we glided toward a herd of elephants, surrounded by buffalo and birdlife, “what a wonder-filled world we live in”.

I set my camera down, took a sip of my gin and tonic and took it all in as our skipper expertly manoeuvred our boat around once hotly disputed Sedudu Island, which marks Botswana’s border with Namibia on the Chobe River.

He knew just how to position the big craft for the best snaps of the abundant wildlife.

Sedudu, he explained, means “group of hippos in shallow water”.

There were plenty of those grumpy sorts, too, snorting in annoyance when we got too close (which is any distance, really).

That shallow water becomes several metres deeper in the wet season and the islands are submerged, the game that is forced to visit the river in the dry season scarcer (from a boat), but the scenery arguably even more beautiful.

Viewing nature from the sundowner boat cruise on the Chobe provides a different experience from on land: elephants swimming across the river and greeting each other as long-lost friends.

Being able to glide in close to them or buffalo, hippos and crocodiles, with sunset framing the scene, is special. I love the area, I loved the vibe at Chobe Bush Lodge where I was a guest.

The sunset game drive showcases some beautiful landscapes.

Relatively new kid on the block, Chobe Bush Lodge is part of Under One Botswana Sky and part and parcel of older Chobe Safari Lodge, right next door.

It’s all under thatch and the 42 rooms are tastefully, and unusually, hotel-like for a bush lodge.

No complaints from me or my fellow Aussie guests who, like me, were rather chuffed with the elegant grey-and-white colour scheme, the spacious suites and ablutions with separate bath and shower.

TV too and free wi-fi.

I was even more chuffed with the friendly staff, from the moment my Flame of Africa transfer dropped me off. They have a lot to do with the vibe, the energy.

Chobe Bush Lodge rooms

So, too, do happy campers returning from a boat cruise, or alighting from another game drive with amazing sightings in the 11700km2 Chobe National Park, literally over the fence – so expect to see wildlife from your room and lock the screen doors lest baboons make themselves welcome.

The high-roofed lobby leads to a sprawling, open-plan lounge, dining room, bar area and out-to-terrace seating and two-tiered swimming pools, one splashing down into the other.

Rooms are in a wing to the left and two double-storey buildings ahead.

Early morning and sunset game viewing here is superb. Impala and other prey species are remarkably chilled.

The elephants, too, thank goodness. We had a swishing tail-in-the-face close encounter with a young bull, asserting his dominance and clearly showing what he thought of us – rear in the vehicle and all.

I’m glad he didn’t communicate with a fart, part of their array of communications skills – only some of which humans can hear (or smell).

Best was when an excited male, with an extra “leg”, trundled past after a female. “Oh my!” gushed the mom behind me in a flushed schoolgirl tone. “He’s interested in her,” guide Walter said. “Isn’t he just?!” was the response as hubby tried to distract the kids.

Our guides were all top-drawer, “edumacating” us with interesting facts and anecdotes about the birds and the bees and plenty else when there wasn’t game in sight, often more interesting than the Big 5.

Post-drive buffet breakfasts offer plenty of fresh fruit, omelettes and some very good cheeses.

Chobe Bush Lodge safari dining

Lunches are not too shabby either and the a la carte dinners are even better.

I mostly went with the waitress’s recommendations (mostly meat, though vegetarians were well looked after), which did not disappoint. Great ribeye and impala chops – enough for two. A great time, any time of the year.

Originally published on Independent Online (IOL). Read the full article here.

Chobe Safari Lodge Contact Details

Website: Chobe Bush Lodge
Email: reservations@chobebushlodge.com
Tel: (+267) 625 0 383 / 625 2 480

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