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What to expect during a summer safari on the Chobe River

admin — Wed, 14 Dec 2022 09:16:54 +0000

Although Botswana is a year-round safari destination, every shifting season offers its own set of spectacular highlights.

Summer lures diverse birds to our vast skies, fresh foliage unfurls from its winter slumber, and there is an unprecedented eruption of mammal, insect and reptile life during this captivating time of year.

From November to April, Botswana celebrates rainfall, lush bushveld, and thriving wildlife. The water level of the Chobe River slowly starts to rise again, peaking in May, and the shore boasts a verdant backdrop brimming with life. This is summer in Botswana, our gorgeous green season!

Here’s what to expect on a summer safari in the Chobe National Park.

Experience the circle of life

While wildlife may be easier to spot during the dry season because the grass is shorter and game congregates at the last water sources, summer in Botswana is the best time of year to ‘ooooh’ and ‘aaaaah’ at all the bountiful baby animals.

Plains game are well-fed on the plentiful vegetation and in peak condition to tend to their young. Impalas drop their lambs that congregate in bustling nurseries and this calving season extends to many other species, such as wildebeest, warthog, zebra, buffalo and more.

Although undeniably cute, we must remember that the Chobe National Park is not Disneyland. Predators prowl in the wake of these newborns (often with their own little ones in tow), hoping for an easy meal.

Document a photographic paradise

In summer, the rains mainly occur as short afternoon showers and seldom spoil your safari experience (however, always pack a raincoat and waterproof dry bag for electronics, just in case!). Stunning emerald grasslands and abundant wildflowers create outstanding landscapes and backdrops for your animal subjects. Not to mention the epic drama of an impending downpour!

A theatre of cloud cover creates fantastic texture for colourful sunsets at this time of year, plus longer light hours with the sun dipping below the horizon at around 19h00.

Savour the small stuff

It might not be to everyone’s liking, but a summer safari exhibits the full scope of wildlife in Botswana, from arachnids and adders to platannas and butterflies. Insects and frogs dominate the summer safari soundtrack filling the Chobe National Park with a chorus of clicks, squeals and bubbling songs. These creatures also deepen the nature experience and illustrate the wider ecological web at work. After all, who will pollinate the towering riverine trees that the leopards love to loll about without the little insects?

Set out on a beautiful boat safari

The water levels across the Okavango Delta are at their lowest during summer, and water activities can be limited, but further north, the Chobe River offers year-round boating safaris.

Watch hippos and crocodiles basking in the summer sun and admire the myriad of other species that call the Chobe River home.

Fall in love with bird watching

Chobe Safari Lodge might be the easiest place to become a bird watcher!

Whether cruising the water or strolling our indigenous gardens, there are fantastic bird photography opportunities and many easy-to-identify species.

Starting in November, migrant birds flock to the Chobe River from Asia, Europe and other parts of Africa. The cuckoo calls ring through the branches, vibrant feathers fill the skies and eagle-eyed predators patrol the waterways.

Also read: Birding expert shares top 10 birds to tick off at Chobe Safari Lodge

It is an extraordinary affair of kaleidoscopic plumage and raucous mating calls that bring a unique energy to this premier wilderness area. The sandy riverbanks and surrounding vegetation become home to many busy birds. A thrilling way to get up close to water bird species, such as the African jacana, African skimmer or plentiful ducks, geese, herons and egrets, is by cruising along the Chobe River.

Don’t forget to pack a pair of binoculars and pick up a species checklist when staying at Chobe Safari Lodge.

Where should I stay for a summer safari in Botswana?

Set on the banks of the elephant-rich Chobe River, Chobe Safari Lodge occupies the best riverfront position in Kasane. Chobe Bush Lodge shares a boundary with the Chobe National Park in Kasane and lies within walking distance of the Chobe riverfront and Chobe Safari Lodge. Baboons, warthogs and mongooses may be seen at any time at our wonderfully wild accommodation!

Established in 1959, decades of hosting adventurers and safari-lovers ensure this remains an ideal expedition base for iconic game viewing by boat, game drives or visits to Victoria Falls.

Book directly online now.

The post What to expect during a summer safari on the Chobe River 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.

The Sun-kissed Sanctuary of Nata

admin — Mon, 16 Dec 2019 12:43:08 +0000

A lunar-like landscape that extends far beyond sight and that could seemingly not possibly sustain any life, the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans are, in fact, one of the most important birding sites in Southern Africa, particularly for large populations of greater flamingos that flock to breed in Nata Bird Sanctuary.

These pans lie south-west of the watery playground of the Okavango Delta and are surrounded by the sandy savannas of the Kalahari Desert. While commonly referred to as such, the Makgadikgadi is not a single pan but many pans with sandy desert in between, the largest being the Sua, Nwetwe and Nxai Pans. In fact, the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans make up the basin of the Kalahari Desert. Once an enormous lake, all that is left now is a salty desert that holds position as one of the largest salt flats on the planet, covering around 37 000 sq km.

During the dry season, the Boteti River is the only real source of reliable water in the area, which means game-viewing from April to October is generally excellent. A wide variety of buck and antelope, such as eland, gemsbok and red hartebeest, can be found quenching their thirst along the riverbanks, together with their larger counterparts, elephant and giraffe. Where there are such prey animals, there are predators and at the Boteti, these are generally prides of lion and cheetah.

The outlying grassy plains and palm islands along with the dry pans themselves burst into life with the fall of the first rains in November, which continue filling the pans through into March. This is the wet season and the best time for birding. It also becomes a vital environment for migrating animals including wildebeest and one of Africa’s largest zebra populations. As with the dry season, the influx of plains game animals brings along with it increased predator-prey action, making for some potentially exciting sightings.

The surrounding Nata Bird Sanctuary forms the breeding ground for a host of water birds including pelicans and flamingo in their thousands, when the Nata River fills the great Sua Pan. You cannot help but be utterly transfixed as the shoreline turns into a dazzling pink haze that seems to meet up with the clear blue sky.

Located within this unique environment, Nata Lodge provides a shady refuge from the heat of the desert while still blending naturally into its surrounds. 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 even birdwatch from your pool lounger. Explore the pans via the Nata Bird Sanctuary in a 4×4 vehicle.

Chat to us about your visit to the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans and how this can be incorporated with other more traditional safari destinations in Botswana.

The post The Sun-kissed Sanctuary of Nata 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.

In the Press: Why the Rainy Season Is Still the Perfect Time to Visit Botswana

admin — Wed, 21 Aug 2019 10:17:16 +0000

In this December 2018 article in Culture Trip, South African-born travel writer and photographer, Melanie van Zyl, tells us why the rainy season is still the perfect time to visit Botswana.

An incredible place to visit at any time of year, Botswana tops the chart of Africa’s best safari destinations. Here’s why Botswana’s resplendent wilds are just as likely to impress during the rainy season.

Baby animals, vibrant birdlife, charismatic cats, scores of elephants, affordability and the magnificent rains are just a few reasons to visit during Botswana’s ‘Green Season’, often considered by many to be the worst time of the year to come.

One of the first things you’re likely to Google when travelling is ‘When is the best time to visit?’ For Botswana, some sites will recommend the dry, winter season between May and September, when temperatures are moderate and game viewing is said to be better than at other times of the year. However, experiencing Botswana in the ‘Green Season’ definitely has its perks.

The ‘Green Season’ is good value

Locally known as the ‘Green Season’, Botswana’s rainy, wet, summer season runs from December to March. The biggest advantage of travelling at this time is that visitor numbers dwindle, so you’re likely to enjoy a quieter, more personal stay at affordable rates as camps drop their prices by as much as 50 percent.

Discover Botswana’s beautiful beasts in the Okavango Delta

The November to February period is right in the middle of the heat and rain of midsummer. The Kalahari Desert is particularly stifling, but thankfully there’s a slosh of water, namely the Kavango River and its catchment area, cutting through this harsh environment and providing refuge for the wild world.

The Okavango Delta is a low-impact tourism destination and visiting requires off-road driving, boating or fly-ins using small aircraft. Thanks to this inaccessibility, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has been dubbed ‘the Last Eden of Africa’.

Spot tsessebe (the fastest antelope in the world) or shy water-dwelling sitatunga and enjoy the reinvigoration of the natural world as young, ungainly antelope join the herds. Botswana is also a hotspot for one of the world’s most endangered mammals, the African wild dog.

Tip: When staying at a lodge, such as the new Kwando Splash Camp in the Eastern Okavango, professional guides will be well acquainted with the movements of local lion prides, cheetah coalitions and the fast-moving, hunting packs of African wild dogs (named by World Wildlife Fund as the second-most endangered carnivore in Africa). In fact, these sought-after predators have territories so close to this particular camp that you’re likely to see them while eating breakfast.

See the wild from the water in Chobe National Park

The wide, wild Chobe River marks Botswana’s border with Namibia and provides both sanctuary and water for the many creatures of Chobe National Park. Most notably, this area is home to the African continent’s greatest concentration of elephants, with overall herd numbers at an estimated 120,000. They’re best admired from the water.

Tip: Many lodges in the nearby town, Kasane, offer sundowner cruises, but Chobe Safari Lodge is the closest base to the park for ease of access. You can also book a private boat for the early morning, when rain and thunderstorms are less likely.

Fall in love with Botswana’s birds

During summer, migrant birds swoop south and congregate in high numbers at various hotspots across the country. Even non-birders will be reaching for their binoculars during this active avian season.

Although Botswana has no endemic bird species, it’s one of the easiest places in the world to find extraordinary feathered friends. The Okavango Delta, for example, is a stronghold for critically endangered wattled cranes. For many twitchers, the ultimate sighting is the Pel’s fishing owl, a rarity that feeds on fish and frogs. Colourful bee-eaters snatch insects swiftly from the air, striking African skimmers flock to the northern rivers scooping up water using their specially adapted bills and the African fish-eagle lets out its resonating, soulful call.

Tip: During the Green Season, die-hard birders cannot miss the wonder of Godikwe Lagoon in the heart of the Okavango Delta, where waterbirds find safety from predators on islands surrounded by deeply flooded lagoons. Different species nest side by side in a seasonal ceasefire and create enormous breeding sites called heronries. Godikwe Lagoon is only accessible via boat when staying in lodges near to the Moremi Game Reserve, such as Kwando Splash Camp.

Dance in the rain

There is a particular reverence for rain in Botswana, which is called pula in the local language of Setswana. Pula is also the name of Botswana’s currency, and the colour blue dominates the country’s flag, representing the life-giving forces of water.

When the heat builds up and clouds eventually rupture with rainstorms, bringing water back to this parched place, join in the joy and soak up the open sky. After all, Africa knows best, that ‘no rain, no gain’.

Tip: During a stay at Mma Dinare Lodge in the southern reaches of the Okavango Delta, you may be so lucky as to meet the delightful camp manager Mmapula Malela. ‘Mmapula’ means ‘mother of the rain’, and rain is all that anyone can talk about in the heights of summer’s stifling heat.

Feature image courtesy of Melanie van Zyl for Culture Trip.

Chat to us about how the green rainy season in Botswana can make for truly magical safari in Chobe National Park and/or the Okavango Delta.

The post In the Press: Why the Rainy Season Is Still the Perfect Time to Visit Botswana appeared first on Under One Botswana Sky Blog.

Summer Birding Safari in Chobe National Park

admin — Thu, 18 Jul 2019 14:50:22 +0000

A birding safari in Botswana’s warm and wet summer months is a wonderful affair of colourful plumage and raucous mating calls that bring a special energy to the skies over one of the country’s premier wilderness areas, Chobe National Park.

While the dry winter season might be the time for excellent animal sightings, November to April is the period best-suited for avid birders and twitchers to pack their binoculars, cameras and bird books (or apps) for a birding safari in Botswana.

Squacco heron

Chobe National Park is blessed with the mighty Chobe River, a reliable water source that forms the country’s northern border with Namibia. As one year comes to an end and another begins, the sandy riverbanks and surrounding vegetation become a festival of migratory and resident bird species, both aquatic and terrestrial, that come to breed and raise their young in this natural paradise.

Water birds of Chobe

African jacana

There have been an impressive 450 migratory and native bird species recorded within Chobe, making this one of the top places for a birding safari in Southern Africa. One of the most thrilling ways to get up close to water bird species is by cruising along the Chobe River, where you can see the African jacana (Actophilornis africanus) or ‘Jesus Bird’, slaty egret (Egretta vinaceigula) and Southern carmine bee-eaters (Merops nubicoides). People often remark that many of the birds on the riverbanks are generally unconcerned by the passing boat, which makes for fantastic photography opportunities.

Terrestrial birds of Chobe

Kori bustard

While walking safaris are not permitted in Chobe National Park, the traditional game drive will allow you to tick off some of those birding specials, like the Knysna turaco (Tauraco corythaix), thrush nightingale (Luscinia luscinia) and, if you are lucky, even the elusive Pel’s fishing owl (Scotopelia peli). While on a birding safari, it will be hard to miss Africa’s heaviest flying bird, the kori bustard (Ardeotis kori) along with the Marabou stork (Leptoptilos crumenifer) or ‘Undertaker Bird’. The marabou stork is also considered a ‘wading bird’ so you can also find it in wet habitats.

Marabou stork

As Chobe National Park is considered one of the most bird-abundant regions of Botswana – if not in the whole of Southern Africa – a birding safari based out of Chobe Safari Lodge and Chobe Bush Lodge is not to be missed!

Chat to us about planning and booking your birding safari during the upcoming summer months in Chobe National Park.

The post Summer Birding Safari in Chobe National Park appeared first on Under One Botswana Sky Blog.

President & 1st Lady at Chobe Safari Lodge

admin — Wed, 30 Jan 2019 17:39:52 +0000

Last month, Chobe Safari Lodge hosted His Excellency President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi, Botswana’s First Lady Ms Neo Masisi and other dignitaries of the Botswana government, who were meeting with the Centre for African Resources Animals, Communities And Land (CARACAL), a non-profit and non-governmental organisation based in Northern Botswana.

As part of the tour led by the President and First Lady with CARACAL, the group gathered for a buffet lunch above the cocktail bar at Chobe Safari Lodge to review some of the projects they are running in the area to aid in community development and empowerment. Afterwards, they were treated to a boat cruise on the magnificent Chobe River giving them the opportunity to view the wildlife of Botswana’s northern region with our experienced guides. They were treated to afternoon snacks on-board with the Head Chef of the à la carte restaurant at Chobe Bush Lodge, Kagiso Hlabano.

CARACAL focuses on developing the livelihoods and capacity of local communities as well as securing the health of the ecosystems which communities depend on. The organisation has been operational for about 20 years, continually aiming to support the government in building Botswana and securing a better future for Batswana.

To experience all that Chobe National Park has to offer in terms of wildlife, local community spirit and hospitality, chat to us about staying at one of our lodges based here.

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Giving Back: Community Christmas Celebrations

admin — Thu, 20 Dec 2018 19:48:26 +0000

December is the festive season and, for most people, it’s a time to celebrate with friends, families and colleagues. That’s why, as part of giving back to our local community, Under One Botswana Sky throws a Christmas party every year for orphans, vulnerable children as well as those with physical and mental disabilities.

This year, Chobe Safari Lodge was the place to be as we celebrated the 9^th Annual Christmas Party in a special way. This year, 220 children, 60 caregivers, 20 staff volunteers and 20 attachment trainees celebrated with Santa on a three-hour cruise along the Chobe River. From the river, they were escorted to the camp site where entertainment and lunch was served. As the day came to a close, the children were treated with goodie bags and handballs, before they went home dancing with joy!

This initiative started in 2009 in collaboration with organisations such as Red Cross Orphanage, Orphans from Chobe District Council, Children’s Ark, Metlayabofelo and Kachikau Special Unit Primary School. In 2013, we officially adopted the Kachikau Special Unit and are both privileged and proud to be part of this important organisation. Also at the event were representatives from the Chobe Regional Education, Social Work Department, District Commissioners Office, Fire Department, among various other stakeholders who had donated supplies and gifts for the event.

We believe in promoting a country of compassionate, just and caring people, which is why we throw this party to demonstrate genuine care and love to these children. Through this, we aim to help dispel the stigma that society has towards those who have disabilities as well as stressing that financial aid is not the only thing that children need that heart-felt affection goes a long way too.

Next year, it will be the 10^th Annual Christmas Party held by Under One Botswana Sky and we intend to continue this tradition for many years to come.

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5 Unusual Things to do in Chobe

admin — Wed, 28 Nov 2018 13:21:46 +0000

Improve any Chobe safari with something a little more unusual.

A couple of weeks ago, we took part in the #ThisisChobe travel campaign to celebrate everything we love about the abundant plains and waterways in northern Botswana.

The winding Chobe River establishes Botswana’s border with Namibia and forms the upper boundary of the enormous, game-rich Chobe National Park. With plentiful water sources and a sprawling protected wild habitat, Chobe is a sanctuary for many birds and animals. Most magnificent of which has to be the high concentration of elephants. Nowhere else in Africa can you see more of these massive mammals.

5 unusual things to do in Chobe

Explore northern Botswana and use these five ways to make sure your next Chobe trip is unforgettable.

1. Visit Kasane’s baobab prison tree

Just a short walk away from Chobe Safari Lodge, this historical landmark baobab has an unusual history. Almost entirely hollow in the middle, this big tree was broad enough to hold prisoners. Strategic points were sealed off so that the mighty mowana (which is the Setswana word for baobab) could be used as a cell during the 1800s.

The historic tree sits beside the far more modern Kasane police station and there are several information boards around it so you can learn more about this intriguing botanical history.

2. Try a mopane worm

Just past the old baobab tree, you’ll find street vendors and the informal market stands set up around Hunter’s Mall (where the Spar grocery store is). Wander the stalls and you’ll find colourful wax cloth, shoes, electronics and local food. The most unusual for visitors to Botswana is surely the humble mopane worm.

Commonly called a worm, these caterpillars are actually the juicy grubs of the wide-winged Emperor moth. The colourful worms are plucked from the prolific mopane trees that grow in the area, dried and packed to serve as little protein snacks. They can be eaten dry or fried up again with a sauce. According to a Zimbabwean nutritionist, Marlon Chidemo, these “worms are high in healthy nutrients and contain three times the amount of protein as beef”.

For a tamer taste of the Chobe, you can always try the locally-farmed Chobe River Bream instead. Battered and served with fries, you’ll find it on the menu at Chobe Bush Lodge.

3. Sundowners at Sedudu Bar

Have you ever heard the story of Sedudu?

Once upon a time, Sedudu didn’t have a home. An island, Sedudu is completely surrounded by the Chobe River and many tried to claim it (even though it vanishes underwater for months at a time when the waters flood down from Angola). In Namibia, Sedudu is known as Kasikili Island. However, Botswana won the right to stake the name as Sedudu and welcome it within its borders.

The land dispute was a matter so dear to these residents, it had to be resolved by official intervention from the International Court of Justice in 1999.
Order an icy St Louis beer (the local beverage of choice) and celebrate Botswana’s victory by enjoying a Chobe River sunset from Sedudu Bar. Find it inside the Chobe Safari Lodge campsite and don’t forget to bring your binoculars to watch the wonderful waterbirds flying home to nest.

4. Enjoy a dinner cruise on the Chobe River

One of the most unusual things you can do in Chobe. End off your stay in style with a memorable meal served in the smooth waters of the Chobe River. A candlelit-table will romance any evening. Then, once delectable dinner is over, the upper deck serves as a sensational stargazing site. Read more about dinner cruising on the Chobe River here.

5. Don’t miss a river safari

Last but not least, Chobe is famous for its unusual game-spotting approach. Where else can you glide alongside a herd of elephant wading in the water? Join in the merriment of an afternoon sunset cruise with well-qualified guides, such as Connie Moremong. She’ll tell you about the 731-kilometre journey the Chobe River takes from source to sea, about the fish and frogs who call these waters home, and more. “If I had to just name frogs it would take the whole trip!”, she exclaims.

Otherwise, hire a private boat in the morning (between 7am and 2pm) for a more intimate experience of the Chobe River.

Where to stay in Chobe

Kasane is home to two Under One Botswana Sky’s Chobe lodges. This wild town in the northernmost stretch of Botswana has no fence to the park and wildlife often roams free.

Game you can expect to see in the neighbouring Chobe National Park includes the four of the Big Five (elephant, buffalo, lion and leopard). Plus, the watery Chobe plains offer sightings of hippo, Red lechwe, puku, sable, crocodile and even wild dog.

Also read: How to Choose Safari Accommodation

Chobe Safari Lodge

A true, trusted establishment in Kasane, Chobe Safari Lodge has helped travellers explore Chobe National Park for over fifty years. Set up to overlook the charming Chobe riverfront, this lodge is the only one in town sharing a border with Chobe National Park.

Chobe Bush Lodge

Still fresh on the safari scene Chobe Bush Lodge feature contemporary design and is a more intimate, modern stay. Riverine views are a short walk away and the quieter setting offers a more relaxed

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