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Botswana

8 Nights Botswana Focus Budget

Okavango Delta, Khwai Area Bordering Moremi Game Reserve, Chobe National Park & Victoria Falls

SAFARI SUMMARY

Starts Maun / Ends Livingstone

Seat in a charter from Maun to Moremi Crossing
2 Nights at Moremi Crossing, Okavango Delta (Fully Inclusive)
www.gunns-camp.com

Seat in a charter from Moremi Crossing to Khwai Airstrip
2 Nights at Sango Safari Camp, Khwai Community Area Bordering Moremi Game Reserve (Fully Inclusive)
www.sangosafaricamp.com

Seat in charter from Khwai to Kasane
2 Nights at Kubu Lodge, near Chobe National Park, Kasane (incl. meals, 2 days park fees & 3 activities)
www.kubulodge.net

Road and boat transfer from Kubu Lodge to A’Zambezi River Lodge
2 Nights at A’Zambezi River Lodge, Victoria Falls (Incl. breakfast)
www.azambezilodge.com
Road transfer from A’zambezi Lodge to Victoria Falls Airport

Excludes

·   Increases in National Park Fees TBA – package calculated on P70 pppd entry fee in Chobe National Park
·   International flights unless otherwise specified
·   Visas
·   All activities whilst at A’Zambezi River Lodge
·   Meals, Beverages and activities unless otherwise specified.
·   Premium imported wines, champagnes, spirits & liqueurs where drinks are included
·   Errors and omissions

2012 Package Prices (Nett Rates Based On A Minimum 2 Pax)

Seasons	Per Person Sharing	Single Supplement
Jan – Mar 2012	US $ 2735.00	US $ 380.00
Apr – Jun 2012	US $ 3165.0	US $ 760.00
Jul – Oct 2012	US $ 3365.00	US $ 1070.00
Nov 2012	US $ 2965.00	US $ 760.00

Notes

Single supplement is for accommodation only, applicable when travelling with more than 2 guests and excludes a flying surcharge for guests travelling solo – rate available on request as well as possible solo activities at Kubu Lodge.
Please note that where a booking crosses over 2 different rate periods e.g. Oct & Nov, neither rate is applicable – please request a special quote
The above rate is subject to change due to major currency fluctuations and fuel surcharges
Rates subject to availability

 

DETAILED TINERARY

 

DAY 1 & 2: MOREMI CROSSING, OKAVANGO DELTA

Upon guest’s arrival into Maun Airport, they will be met by a representative followed by a seat in plane transfer to Moremi Crossing where they will stay for 2 nights.

Moremi Crossing is located on an Island called Ntswi near the most southern part of Chief’s Island. As you fly over the Delta you can see the intricate twisting and turning of the waterways and the ever-changing colours where dry land meets Delta. The channels around Moremi Crossing offer far-reaching vistas of the Moremi floodplain, grasslands and marginal woodlands interspersed with Mokolwane palm islands.

Moremi Crossing provides luxury accommodation in 16 vintage en-suite safari tents, each with its own private wooden deck and magical views over the Boro River and Chief’s Island. All tents are large and airy with en-suite bathrooms consisting of shower and toilet.

The main area consists of a large open plan deck that has a spectacular view over the River onto the largest island in the Delta – Chief’s Island. The half-moon shaped area is built on different levels to give you the feeling of space. Dining room, bar and lounge is covered by a large thatched roof that hugs the tree line and accentuates its most beautiful assets. Various small private lounge areas are created for comfort, privacy and spaciousness. Within the tree line the guests find various nicely shaded decked areas that lead towards the pool. The whole camp is shaded by magnificent Llala palms, giant ebony, mangosteen, sausage and giant fig trees. The camp has 24-hour solar powered electricity/lighting.

As Moremi Crossing is a water based camp, they have a wide variety of animal and bird species and the guests arrive at the camp either by mokoro or boat. Moremi Crossing offers different activities in the form of half or full day mokoro trips, game and bird walks, sunset motorboat cruises and island camping. All these activities give the guests a chance to experience the Okavango Delta and its wildlife from a very different, slower and closer perspective.

On Chief’s Island the guests have the opportunity to get a closer view of the animals. Lions, leopards, wild dogs, elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffalos, red lechwes and many more animals have been spotted there.

AREA DESCRIPTION – OKAVANGO DELTA

The Okavango Delta is one of the world's largest inland deltas situated in the middle of the largest stretch of continuous sand in the world - the Kalahari basin. This oasis in the middle of the desert is a rich yet fragile ecosystem, providing a life source for an incredible variety of wildlife. A wealth of species have adapted to the contrasting conditions created by living in the harsh Kalahari desert which is transformed annually with the arrival of the delta flood waters originating in Angola.

The Okavango wetland encompasses Moremi Game Reserve and surrounding regions divided into areas known as Private Concessions. These concessions are wildlife management areas, carefully administrated to balance the growing community’s development and conservation, whilst empowering citizens through sustainable tourism. Many of the exclusive lodges in Botswana are situated within these concessions in the delta, providing an unparalleled wildlife experience - exclusive and remote, avoiding mass tourism and exploitation.

Flood levels fluctuate dramatically throughout the year, with high water levels peaking in the central Okavango during the dry winter months and water levels at their lowest during the later summer months, contrary to the seasonal rainfall.  The landscape, activities and game viewing vary considerably throughout the delta depending on your location, the season and flood levels. Some areas have larger tracts of permanent dry land which generally means there is more focus on land based activities (game drives) and big game viewing. Lodges situated on islands deep in the delta concentrate more on water activities such as mokoro excursions, walking, boating, fishing and bird watching. Those lodges situated on the outer fringes of the delta, referred to as the 'seasonal' delta, offer varied experiences at different times of the year - more water based during high flood levels and more land based as the flood recedes.  

Game is more concentrated around the permanent water during the dry season (Apr - Oct) with it becoming very hot in the later months. The heronries become active as the migrant birds return to Botswana from September through November, and general bird watching is excellent throughout the summer months. The rainy season (Nov - Apr) invigorates the lush scenery with wild flowers, dramatic thundershowers, spectacular sunsets and the birthing season brings great predator and prey interaction.

DAY 3 & 4: SANGO SAFARI CAMP, KHWAI COMMUNITY AREA, BORDERING MOREMI GAME RESERVE

After an early morning activity and breakfast (time permitting), guests will be transferred from Moremi Crossing to Khwai Airstrip by seat in plane transfer, followed by a road transfer to Sango Safari Camp where they will stay for  2 nights.

Sango Safari Camp is nestled in the shade of the trees overlooking the Khwai River. Situated on the outskirts of the traditional village of Khwai and on the border of Moremi Game Reserve, the camp offers guests the perfect base from which to explore the wildlife and culture of this unique habitat.

This intimate safari camp is named for the Sango Family, some of the original inhabitants of the Khwai area, and now part owners of the camp. Guests will have the chance to learn firsthand about the unique lifestyle and experiences that come from living and growing up in one of the most wildlife rich areas of Botswana.

Accommodating 10 guests in 5 en-suite meru tents, Sango Safari Camp is designed in the style of the classic tented safari camp of days gone by. With its open-air bucket showers, hand crafted furnishings and classic styling Sango Safari Camp aims to rekindle the atmosphere of the luxury mobile safari camp, successfully blending the rustic with the luxurious.

With the Khwai River forming a natural border between the world famous Moremi Game Reserve and Khwai Concession, animals can travel freely through this vast unfenced wilderness. Situated on the river overlooking the Moremi and with access to both these magnificent wildlife areas, Sango Safari Camp is focused on delivering an exceptional wildlife experience to our guests. The camp’s location allows guests to take advantage of a host of wildlife activities which include open vehicle game drives both in the Moremi and in the Khwai concession area, guided bush walks and night drives.  

With a combination of permanent water, seasonal floodplains, open grasslands, riverine forests, and dry woodlands this incredibly rich habitat supports a diversity and abundance of mammals and birds rarely matched in northern Botswana. Sango Safari Camp invites you to share in this bounty.

AREA DESCRIPTION – KHWAI COMMUNITY AREA

Moremi Game Reserve is a rich and diverse wildlife sanctuary, encompassing the Okavango Delta. The reserve is unfenced and its boundaries are defined naturally by river systems. The vegetation is varied, with dry land complemented by permanent and seasonal swamplands, resulting in an excellent diversity of both wildlife and birdlife. There is a network of game drive routes through the reserve as well as access to the permanent delta waterways in Xakanaxa where boating can be enjoyed (not available from lodges in the Khwai area).

Moremi is amongst the best game reserves in Africa for viewing the endangered African wild dog. Xakanaxa is home to a resident herd of several hundred buffalo whose range covers the territories of at least 4 prides of lion which may often be seen flanking the ever moving herd. Breeding herds of elephant move between their browsing areas in the mopane forests and the fresh water of the Okavango. Red lechwe are one of the more unusual antelope species commonly found here. Game is more concentrated around the permanent water during the dry season (Apr - Oct) with it becoming very hot in the later months. The heronries become active as the migrant birds return to Botswana from September through November, and general bird watching is excellent throughout the summer months. The rainy season (Nov - Apr) invigorates the lush scenery with wild flowers, dramatic thundershowers, spectacular sunsets and the birthing season brings great predator and prey interaction.

Please note that activities are restricted within the national park in accordance with government rules and regulations. These include no driving off-road, no walking and no driving after dark.

Moremi Game Reserve is surrounded by wildlife management areas of the Okavango, with no boundaries between the concessions and the reserve allowing wildlife to move between the woodlands in the wet season when water is plentiful and back to permanent rivers and lagoons in the dry season. The prior inhabitants in the area (the River Bushmen) were moved to the periphery of the reserve, establishing Khwai village near the North Gate exit of the park. The Khwai area is managed by the community through the Khwai Development Trust. This area offers the same wildlife experience as the reserve itself. However, a key advantage of being outside the park is the freedom to do walking safaris and night drives as the area is not governed by the same rules.

DAY 5 & 6: KUBU LODGE, KASANE

Following the morning activity (time permitting), guests will be transferred by road to Khwai Airstrip followed by a seat in plane transfer to Kasane Airport followed by a road transfer to Kubu Lodge where they will stay for 2 nights.

Kubu Lodge is a small, privately owned and run lodge set on 30 hectares of riverine forest on the banks of the Chobe River, on the doorstep of the world famous Chobe National Park, and only an hour away from the mighty Victoria Falls.

Set upon rolling lawns and shaded beneath giant ebony and wild fig trees, the lodge offers a haven just outside the centre of Kasane, with panoramic views of the Chobe River. Accommodation consists of eleven charming thatched chalets on stilts with full en-suite facilities, ceiling fan, mosquito nets and tea and coffee making facilities. Each chalet has a view of the river and it is an excellent choice for families offering several family chalets and warm hospitality.

The main lodge facilities include a bar, restaurant, curio shop and a secluded swimming pool. There is also a nature trail for bird watching enthusiasts. The lodge co-ordinates game viewing activities which can include game drives into the Chobe National Park and boat cruises on the Chobe River as the option of day trips across to Victoria Falls, the local snake park or crocodile farm.

AREA DESCRIPTION - KASANE

Situated on the banks of the Chobe River, Kasane is the administrative centre of the Chobe District. This little town supplies the tourism industry that surrounds it including the Chobe National Park and Chobe Forestry Reserve. There are a number of hotels, guest houses and camp sites located along the river. The Chobe National Park is only a 10 minute drive from town. Wildlife such as warthog, elephant and buffalo is often seen wondering around and walking down the road. Activities in the area include drives into the park and boat cruises on the Chobe River. Fishing trips on the river and day trips to the Victoria Falls across the river in Zimbabwe or Zambia can also be arranged.

Day 7 & 8: A’ZAMBEZI RIVER LODGE, VICTORIA FALLS

After breakfast the guests will be transferred by road to A ‘Zambezi River Lodge in Victoria Falls (approximately 2 hour transfer) where they will stay for 2 nights.

Located in Victoria Falls, just 4 km upstream of the Victoria Falls and 25 km from the airport, the A’Zambezi River Lodge nestles on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River within the periphery of the Zambezi National Park. The imaginative architecture with its sweeping curve of grass thatch blends well with the lush green lawns. A’Zambezi is the perfect retreat to relax and unwind in the quiet ambience of the African wild life and nature, whilst enjoying renowned services. The A’Zambezi is the only town hotel with direct river frontage and jetty site in Victoria Falls.

A’Zambezi River Lodge offers comfortable accommodation in 88 rooms that all have air conditioning, en-suite bathrooms, complimentary tea/coffee facilities, a telephone and satellite television. A’Zambezi River Lodge also has 4 executive suites with a bar, lounge and spa bath and 2 inter-leading rooms for families. The lodge is built in under a large thatched roof and guests have a fantastic view of the majestic Zambezi River. Secure parking is also offered.

There are 2 restaurants to cater for all dietary requirements. “Amulonga” is a buffet and à la carte restaurant where guests can enjoy authentic open-air dining, garden breakfasts and riverside lunches. Live African music and dancing keeps guests entertained while dining al fresco. Facilities and activities include a swimming pool, bars, barbecue areas, children’s playground and indoor games (table tennis and darts). Boats can be hired for a cruise down the Zambezi River.

A courtesy bus runs on an hourly basis between A’Zambezi River Lodge and the town centre. Guests can go curio shopping in the town centre or participate in activities such as game and bird watching, play golf, go for a nature walk, visit the crocodile and snake farm (300m away) and, for the more adventurous, white water rafting, bungee jumping, elephant back riding, horseback riding or going for a walk with lions. Activities can be booked at reception.

AREA DESCRIPTION – VICTORIA FALLS

Victoria Falls town lies on the southern bank of the Zambezi River at the eastern end of the Victoria Falls. It is a lovely tourist town which is easy to explore on foot and which offers a wide range of activities from the challenge of white water rafting and bungi jumping, to the awe-inspiring elephant back safaris and sunset cruises. It has something for everyone

The Victoria Falls are one of the Seven Wonders of the World and is the largest sheet of falling water on earth - a spellbinding and mesmerising spectacle. The sheer mass of water cascading down the 100m drop across nearly 2km makes  a thunderous roar and creates a magnificent spray of water that can be seen for miles - hence the local name 'mosi oa tunya' meaning 'the smoke that thunders'.

Access to Victoria Falls is within easy walking distance from the town centre. Water flow over the falls varies throughout the year. The river's annual flood season is February to May when the spray can reach a height of over 400m, this is spectacular from above but it makes it very difficult to see the falls at ground level as it is under a heavy shower/mist. Water levels start dropping in August and are at their lowest October - December when much of the rocky face becomes dry. At times of low water, the falls are best viewed from the Zimbabwe side or from Livingstone Island.

DAY 9: SAFARI ENDS IN VICTORIA FALLS

After the breakfast the guests will be transferred to Victoria Falls Airport, for their onward travel arrangements.

END OF ARRANGEMENTS

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GENERAL NOTES

·   Road and air transfers and activities are quoted on a seat basis (shared) unless otherwise requested or specified.  Passengers may have various stops en-route to a destination. The transfer or charter company reserves the right to specify departure and arrival times.  Private charters can be requested at an additional cost.
·   Passengers weighing over 100kg should please advise us at the time of booking as we may need to cost in an additional seat on internal flights for your safety and comfort.
·   There are strict luggage restrictions in place on any itinerary which includes light aircraft transfers for safety reasons. Luggage, including camera equipment and hand luggage, is restricted to 20 kg per person travelling (soft bags only) on seat rates.
·   All quotes exclude international flights and visa costs. The onus is upon the guests to ensure that passports and visas are valid for the countries visited.
·   The costs are subject to change at any time due to fluctuations in fuel costs, taxes, levies, government regulations, rate of exchange and factors that are imposed upon us by our suppliers that are beyond or control.
·   Please advise us of the ages of children (under 18) travelling, together with their date of birth, at the time of booking as not all lodges accept children and there may be restrictions or conditions applicable.
·   Please request any optional additional activities at the time of booking, specifically in Livingstone or Victoria Falls e.g. sunset cruise. We recommend that activities are booked in advance to guarantee availability.
·   Please allow a minimum 2 - 3 hours connection time in Johannesburg for international flights. Where you require us to book onward flights, please advice guests names in full as per their passport together with international arrival and departure details at the time of booking so that we can allow for this connection time accordingly.
·   Please note that Botswana is a Malaria area. Anti-malaria precautions should be commenced prior to departure. Please consult your doctor for specific advice.
·   There is no or limited electricity and no cell phone coverage in the camps and lodges excluding major towns and cities.
·   Please note that most camps & lodges in Botswana do not have double beds.  Twin beds are pushed together to make up a double room.
·   Although every effort is made to adhere to schedules the company reserves the right and in fact is obliged to occasionally change routes and camps on safaris as dictated by changing conditions or unforeseen circumstances.
·   Please notify us in advance of any special dietary requirements and / or medical conditions.
·   We wish to draw your attention to the fact that there are certain inherent risks involved when on a safari.

 

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