When you think of Africa, you think of animals and the big 5, a term coined by hunters in relation to the difficulty of hunting on foot for Lion, Elephant, Rhino, Buffalo and Leopard and there is no better place to see these animals than in Botswana.
Landlocked Botswana is an amazing country of contrasts. The Kalahari Desert occupies most of Botswana and within this is the beautiful wetland of the Okavango Delta. The Delta receives its waters from rain that falls in Angola – over a 1000 kilometres away.
The 15,000 square kilometre Delta is a maze of water channels, lagoons and islands that supports a huge diversity of wildlife so you can enjoy excellent game viewing all year round. It is great to see how the wildlife has adapted – Lions have learnt how to swim across the channels to chase their prey – and swimming makes them very powerful – they are wonderful to watch!
And then you have the Red Lechwe – gorgeous antelope with longer back legs so they can spring through the waters. Hippos who stomp a track through the waters creating “highways” that elephants and tourists on makoros can use – this keeps you carefully balanced in your makoro. It is wonderful to fly over the delta as you can see these hippo tracks in the water and of course the chances are high that you will also see huge herds of elephants moving in a long line through the delta.
When it comes to Botswana it is important to get a mix of habitats into your camps – so ideally enjoy a mix of both water and land/water camps. The land/water camps are particularly good for seeing the various cats and plains animals, whilst water camps ensure you get your fill of both the big; elephants and hippos and the small – the beautiful birds. Four nights is the minimum you need on safari in Botswana and ideally we would aim for nine nights in three different environments.
Victoria Falls (Livingstone) is an adventurer’s playground – my favourite is the 15 minute Microlight flight over the spectacular falls – truly stunning! You need 2 nights in Victoria Falls.
When to go – June, July & August are peak times for travel to Botswana which is reflected in the pricing. April/May/Sep/Oct are also great time for wildlife viewing and are certainly less expensive.
What to do? Mobile tented camps – these are great value and you can choose participation or non-participation. Permanent tented camps & lodges are very popular and give you that Out-of-Africa experience. Typically you would fly between camps – this is often only 10 -20 mins (a bit like a bus). You can travel overland but this can be quite slow.
How to get there ? Typically fly to Johannesburg and then fly up to Maun and finish in Victoria Falls and fly home again via Johannesburg. It is very easy to include a stay down in Capetown before or after your Botswana safari.
Experiences in this area
Desert Rivers and Wildlife in Comfort
Travelling in a comfortable, custom-built safari vehicle and staying in well-appointed accommodation with plenty of local charm, this journey offers an abundance of stunning scenery, unique wildlife and cultural encounters. The vastness of both Namibia and Botswana become apparent with … Continue reading →
Madagascar Adventure
https://worldexpeditions.com/Madagascar/Wildlife-Safari/Madagascar-Adventure Discover the diverse wildlife and ecology of Madagascar on this unique multi-activity tour. Madagascar is the world’s fourth largest island and about the size of France. Isolated from Africa millions of years ago it has evolved an incredibly rich … Continue reading →
Israel & the Palestinian Territories: Women’s Expedition
Explore with activists, artists and women from all walks of life Uncover diverse perspectives in Israel and the Palestinian Territories on this eight-day Women’s Expedition. With local female leaders and guides from Israeli, Palestinian and Bedouin backgrounds this tour will … Continue reading →
Diverse Namibia
Diverse Namibia is an active, exciting adventure, exploring the iconic areas of this vast country – its dunes, deserts, plains and superb wildlife – enhanced by exclusive accommodation in private reserves and concessions. On this adventure you will take in … Continue reading →
Israel and Jordan: Walking in the Footsteps of Abraham
The story of Abraham, Ibrahim, the ‘Friend of God’ – as he has been named in Jewish, Christian and Islamic tradition – is the beginning of Monotheism. Abraham is perceived in all monotheistic traditions as the ultimate host, opening his … Continue reading →
Kilimanjaro: Machame Route
Conquer the highest peak in Africa – Tanzania’s Mt Kilimanjaro Trek the amazing Machame Route to the summit of Mt Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest point. At high altitude, it’s a challenging journey through uniquely varied terrain. Camp out at night and … Continue reading →
Superior Explorer Safari
• Chobe National Park • Savute • Okavango Delta The andBeyond Superior Explorer Safari offers mobile camping in Botswana’s Chobe National Park, Savute and ends of with a 2 night stay in a luxury andBeyond lodge in the Okavango Delta. … Continue reading →
Classic Explorer Safari
• Chobe National Park • Savute • Okavango Delta The andBeyond Classic Explorer Safari offers a wonderful combination of land and water activities such as game drives, bush walks, a private boat cruise, mokoro excursions and fishing. The Classic Explorer … Continue reading →
Botswana Highlights Safari
• Chobe National Park • Savute • Okavango Delta • Nxai Pan National Park This is the ultimate andBeyond Botswana mobile camping (glamping) journey. Over eight adventure-filled nights you will have the opportunity to experience four of Botswana’s most prized … Continue reading →
Jordan Explorer
Explore Jordan’s historical sites and geographical wonders For such a compact country, Jordan has an overwhelming array of historical sites and geographical features ripe for exploration. From the magical hidden city of Petra where the Queen of Sheba once showered … Continue reading →
South Africa Rainbow Route
The Rainbow Route is an overview tour of South Africa including neighbouring Kingdom of Swaziland. The tour covers many highlights with a strong focus on the national parks. This diverse country is explored over great distances that may involve long … Continue reading →
The Blue Train
Follow in the footsteps of Kings and Presidents who have travelled on this magnificent, moving five-star “hotel-on-wheels”. On board The Blue Train, luxury assumes a new dimension, and becomes the working definition of everything your heart desires. You will feel … Continue reading →
&Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve
andBeyond Phinda Private Game Reserve encompasses an impressive 23,000 hectares (56,800 acres) of prime wilderness land in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Showcasing one of the continent’s finest game viewing experiences, including cheetah, Phinda features Africa’s Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo … Continue reading →
Southern Africa Highlights
Experience three of the major highlights of Southern Africa has to offer. Explore Cape Town, the ‘Mother City’ and the world-renowned Kruger National Park, home to Africa’s iconic safari species – elephant, lion, leopard, cheetah, rhino, buffalo, giraffe, hippo and … Continue reading →
Kruger Lodge Experience
Experience the magical Kruger Park in style. Get a taste of one of the most famous game reserves in the world on this 4-day safari in Kruger National Park. Staying in a beautiful lodge just outside of the park, spend … Continue reading →
Wild Kruger Camping
Uncover the wild heart of Kruger National Park on this short break adventure. Answer the call of the Kruger, South Africa’s vast and famous game park that is simply teeming with Africa’s most iconic creatures. This four-day safari puts you … Continue reading →
Delta, Dunes & Falls
Explore Sub-Saharan Africa One of our most popular trips in southern Africa combining four spectacular countries – Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia and South Africa. In 24 days you’ll see a whole heap of wildlife and have plenty of time to soak … Continue reading →
Highlights of Southern Africa
With boutique wineries, immense canyons, thriving game parks, bustling cities and ancient cultures, Southern Africa truly has it all. Never before have the highlights been quite so bright. Experience the best of Southern Africa from the windswept dunes of Namibia … Continue reading →
South Africa’s Garden Route
Discover the Winery Region, Wild Coast and Garden Route of South Africa. South Africa’s seaside splendour awaits on the exquisite Garden Route and Wild Coast. Set off from Cape Town and visit wineries en route to Stellenbosch, sample abalone and … Continue reading →
Southern Africa Experience
Delve into Southern Africa’s varied treasures, from its world-renowned wine region to its iconic safari landscapes and wildlife. Embark on an adventure of a lifetime as you journey across South Africa and Botswana to the region’s most iconic attractions. Travel … Continue reading →
Highlights and Highlands of Ethiopia
Escorted Tour, ** new dates 24 sep to 19 oct 2021 ** (land only) Your tour highlights 12th and 13th century Rock Churches of Lalibela Yemrehanna Kristos – best preserved Axumite cave church Gelada Baboons, Simien Mountains NP and Giant … Continue reading →
Discover Ethiopia
Tucked in between the Middle East and Africa, Ethiopia sits in the middle of these distinctive regions and yet takes on a cultural mosaic and aesthetic that’s tangibly distinct. On this 10-day tour you’ll see just what we mean with … Continue reading →
Pharaohs & Pyramids
Discover Egypt, ancient & modern Uncover the ancient secrets of Egypt while experiencing the welcoming culture of today. See the pyramids from astride a majestic camel. Wander among 136 soaring pillars in Karnak Temple. Explore Dendera, one of Egypt’s best-preserved … Continue reading →
Dunes and Delta Discovery – escorted by Sue Verrall
23-day Escorted Tour departing 1 June 2021 Namibia is an absolute must for the keen photographer. The country is a kaleidoscope of colour, begging to be captured on camera. In Damaraland and north-western Namibia, echoes of its ancient geological history … Continue reading →
Botswana Leopard Trail and Kalahari
Explore the best of Botswana from the Kalahari to Chobe National Park plus Victoria Falls on a semi‑participation safari. This camping trip provides a complete overview of Botswana for those with an adventurous spirit looking to see the wild side … Continue reading →
Remarkable Rwanda & Gorillas of Uganda
Uncover beauty and tragedy in Rwanda and Uganda. Rwanda is oft-missed destination that every human should visit. Not only will you learn about the devastating events that took place here, you’ll also witness a beautiful country that’s continuously striving to … Continue reading →
Mountain Gorillas of Rwanda
Experience Africa’s mountain gorillas on an adventure through Rwanda. Visit Rwanda, Africa’s home to some of the last remaining mountain gorillas and a place where you will be warmly welcomed by smiling locals. Rwanda has bravely risen from a tragic … Continue reading →
Gameparks & Gorillas
Highlights The Great Rift Valley including Elsamere of “Born Free” fame Lake Naivasha – home to over 400 different species of bird and a sizeable hippo population Game drives and a cultural village visit in the Masai Mara NP See … Continue reading →
Classical Egypt and Jordan
From the Valley of the Kings to the awe-inspiring ruins of Petra, this adventure through Egypt and Jordan reveals so much more than the sphinxes and tombs of your childhood dreams. You’ll sail down the Nile, visit traditional village communities, … Continue reading →
Botswana By Belmond
Savute – Chobe National Park • Okavango Delta • Moremi Wildlife Reserve Discover three different ecosystems in remote wilderness hotspots, while in the complete luxury of renowned Belmond lodges. All lodges feature air-conditioned luxury rooms, wi-fi and swimming pools … Continue reading →
Luxury Nile Steam Cruise
Join the gorgeous steam cruise, the SS Misr, as she sails between Luxor and Aswan in Upper Egypt. Originally built by the British Royal Navy in 1918 and later converted into a luxury Nile steamer for King Farouk, the SS … Continue reading →
Upper Egypt and the Eternal Nile
This is a perfect small group and family friendly itinerary to discover Egypt with unforgettable sightseeing in Cairo, a visit to the historic Carter’s house in Luxor, followed by an idyllic four night Nile cruise – allowing you to savour … Continue reading →
Morocco Food Explorer
All the flavours of Morocco are on display on this satisfying authentic food adventure. The tagine is the perfect symbol of Morocco – varied in flavour, infinite in possibilities. Discover an intoxicating combination of Arabic, Berber, and European influences on … Continue reading →
The Blue Train
Follow in the footsteps of Kings and Presidents who have travelled on this magnificent, moving five-star “hotel-on-wheels”. On board The Blue Train, luxury assumes a new dimension, and becomes the working definition of everything your heart desires. You will feel … Continue reading →
Kenya and Tanzania Adventure
Kenya and Tanzania from the comfort of a private 4WD vehicle, visit a traditional Maasai village, and sleep under African skies in the Kati Kati Tented Camp. Itinerary Day 1 Nairobi, Kenya Welcome to Kenya. On arrival, you’ll be met … Continue reading →
Gorillas & Game Parks
Encounter rare wildlife in the heart of East Africa. A close encounter with gentle giants on a gorilla safari in Uganda is an extraordinary experience that will always stay with you – and it’s just one of the many wildlife … Continue reading →
Botswana Highlights
Discover the wildlife and World Heritage waterways of Botswana. Containing in its borders the world’s largest salt pans, inland delta and number of elephants, Botswana has plenty to boast about. Taking in also Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls and Namibia’s Zambezi region, … Continue reading →
Fly around East Africa
Masai Mara • Serengeti National Park • Ngorongoro Crater • optional Zanzibar Extension This once-in-a-lifetime journey is for those who want to experience the best of Kenya and Tanzania in luxury and style. Visit the wilderness hotspots of the Masai … Continue reading →
Uganda Gorilla Expedition & Safari
Get close to the rare mountain gorillas of Uganda on this intimate and unforgettable adventure Only 2 departures for 2018: 15 July 2018; 18 November 2018; maximum group size of 8 The feeling of laying eyes on a family of … Continue reading →
Pyramids, Mummies & Pharaohs
Discover the history and mythology of Egypt as you explore Cairo, Aswan, Luxor and the Nile 2018 departures: 6 May 2018; 9 September 2018; 7 October 2018; maximum group size of 12 Contact us for 2019 dates and availability. If … Continue reading →
Upper Egypt & The Nile
A perfect small group & family friendly itinerary to discover Egypt with unforgettable sightseeing in Cairo followed by an idyllic four night Nile cruise from which to savour the atmosphere of Luxor with its majestic temples and experience the unique relaxing ambiance … Continue reading →
Jewels of the Nile
One of Ancient Kingdoms most popular Egyptian holidays, combining a fabulous Nile cruise with time to explore Cairo’s many highlights including the Pyramids and Cairo Museum. Ancient Kingdoms offers you Egypt in all its glory, from the golden treasures of … Continue reading →
Fly Around Botswana
We can tailor your safari with exceptional Botswana lodges and camps. Include up to three destinations or spend more nights at one or two destinations: Chobe National Park, Savute National Park and the Okavango Delta. A wildlife enthusiast’s dream, Chobe … Continue reading →
Dunes and Delta Discovery – escorted by Sue Verrall
23-day Escorted Tour, departing 1 June 2021 Due to cancellations, we have spaces now on this previously sold-out tour. To secure your space on either tour date, return your completed booking form along with an $8,000 non-refundable deposit to Discover Travel. … Continue reading →
Highlights and Highlands of Ethiopia
Escorted Tour, 16 April to 11 May 2021 (land only) Your tour highlights 12th and 13th century Rock Churches of Lalibela Yemrehanna Kristos – best preserved Axumite cave church Gelada Baboons, Simien Mountains NP and Giant Lobelias Royal Castles of … Continue reading →