We start our adventure in South Africa, visiting one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls. It is the largest sheet of falling water in the world. It is located on the Zambezi River between the countries of Zambia and Zimbabwe. Scottish missionary and explorer, David Livingston, gave the its name, honoring his Queen Victoria. The indigenous name Mosi-oa-Tunya literally means “the Smoke that Thunders.”

From Victoria Falls we go see the animals in Botswana.  Botswana is one of the few remaining destinations in Africa that still provides a good sense of the adventure of safari. Its expansive game parks and preserves, while offering wildlife as diverse and abundant as that found anywhere else, are still largely undeveloped and untamed.

The Republic of Botswana lies immediately to the north of South Africa. Geographically the country is flat and up to 70% of Botswana is covered by the Kalahari Desert. It is bordered by South Africa to the south and southeast, Namibia to the west and north, and Zimbabwe to the northeast.

The aboriginal inhabitants of Botswana, who have made the Kalahari their home for at least 30,000 years, are the San, or bushmen. The San number about 60,000 today, constituting a small but fascinating cultural minority in the country. Almost two millennia ago, a Bantu people known as the Tswana arrived, supplanting the San and now constituting the great majority of the population. The citizens are referred to as "Batswana" (singular: Motswana).

Formerly the British protectorate of Bechuanaland, Botswana adopted its new name after becoming independent within the Commonwealth on 30 September 1966. It has held free and fair democratic elections since independence.

We enter Bostwana through Maun, situated at the gateway to the Delta and Moremi Game Reserve. Maun is the tourism capital of Botswana and the administrative centre of Ngamiland. It is also the headquarters of the safari and air-charter operations.

Since the town's establishment in 1915 as the tribal capital of the Batawana people, Maun has had a rough and ready reputation as a hard-living 'Wild West' town servicing the local cattle ranching and hunting operations. But with the growth of the tourism industry and the completion of the tar road from Nata in the early 1990s, Maun has developed rapidly, losing much of its old frontier town character. It is now home to over 30,000 people.

Chobe National Park, a beautiful grassland reserve that has gained international fame for its abundant elephant population, is the second largest national park in Botswana and has one of the greatest concentrations of game found on the African continent. Its uniqueness in the abundance of wildlife and the true African nature of the region, offers a safari experience of a lifetime.

The park is divided into four distinctly different ecosystems: Serondela with its lush plains and dense forests in the Chobe River area in the extreme northeast; the Savuti Marsh in the west, the Linyanti Swamps in the north-west and the hot dry hinterland in between.

Southeast of Chobe are Botswana's enormous Makgadikgadi salt pans, home to large herds of blue wildebeest, several antelope species, and those international lovers of salt pans, flamingos. Almost the entire remaining portion of the country is covered by the Kalahari Desert--a varied environment of sand, savanna, and grassland.

Savuti (spelled with an e when referring to the lodges) is often described as one of, if not the best, wildlife-viewing area in Africa today, and boasts one of the highest concentrations of wildlife left on the African continent. Animals are present during all seasons, and at certain times of the year their numbers can be staggering. We will probably see nearly all the major species: giraffe, elephant, zebra, impala, roan, sable, wildebeest, kudu, buffalo, waterbuck, warthog, eland and accompanying predators including lion, hyena, jackal, bat-eared fox and possibly even cheetah and wild dog.

In the northwest corner of this otherwise dry country, and covering nearly 10,000 square miles, is the maze of channels, lagoons and palm-covered islands that make up the Okavango Delta. The Delta is fed by the Kavango River (renamed the Okavango in Botswana). The waters are crystal clear, and are best navigated by traditional mekoro (dug-out canoes), many of which are now made of fiber glass, to preserve the majestic trees in the Delta, that were traditionally used. The Delta is a breeding ground for several hundred species of bird, including many migrants, who visit from November to March, making the area a bird-watchers dream destination. It is not uncommon to see hundreds of members of one species, in a morning.

Cape Town is the second most-populous city in South Africa. It is the provincial capital of the Western Cape, as well as the legislative capital of South Africa, where the National Parliament and many government offices are located. The city is famous for its harbor as well as its natural setting in the Cape floral kingdom, including such well-known landmarks as Table Mountain and Cape Point. It is hailed as one of the most beautiful cities in the world as officially recognized by Forbes Magazine. National Geographic has also listed Cape Town as one of the most iconic cities on the planet and "Places of a Lifetime".

DAY 1: VICTORIA FALLS, Zimbabwe
Upon arrival at Victoria Falls Airport (Zimbabwe) we will be met by our local tour company representative and transferred to the luxury Elephant Hills Resort Hotel which is situated only two miles from Victoria Falls and provides a panoramic vista of the mighty Zambezi River and its surroundings. The hotel also has an 18-hole golf course, designed by Gary Player. The rest of the day is free for you to explore this exciting area or relax by the pool. Available is an optional helicopter flight, called the Flight of Angels. In the afternoon, we will enjoy a sundowner cruise on the Zambezi River, which is included in our itinerary, then dinner in one of the hotel’s gourmet restaurants.

DAY 2: VICTORIA FALLS
After breakfast at the hotel, we set out to experience a guided tour of the Victoria Falls and a visit to the local craft market, introducing us to the traditional Africa lifestyle and culture. In the afternoon, we take an Elephant Back Safari into the African bush! Dinner will be at “The Boma”, a true African dining experience.

DAY 3: VICTORIA FALLS - CHOBE NATIONAL PARK
After breakfast we check out of the hotel and embark on a road transfer to Chobe Game Lodge, which is the only safari lodge situated within the Chobe National Park. Chobe is famous for its huge herds of elephants. It is the second largest national park in Botswana and is home to a large animal population and over 450 bird species. Its distinctly different ecosystems include: Serondela with its lush plains and dense forests in the extreme Northeast of Chobe River area, the Savute Marsh area in the West, the Linyanti Swamps in the North West and the hot dry hinterland in between the other three. For the true lover of unspoiled Africa, an Okavango safari will capture the magnificence and very real essence of Botswana's natural landscape and wildlife heritage.

DAY 4: CHOBE  NATIONAL PARK
After breakfast we set out on safari. Game drives are conducted in open four wheel-drive vehicles, normally early morning and late afternoon and under the leadership of knowledgeable, experienced guides. The Chobe floodplain is renowned for its concentration of buffalo and elephant and the late afternoon in particular, provides spectacular viewing. Game viewing and fishing by small boats is also a special Chobe experience. Additionally, there are sunrise and sunset boat safari cruises aboard the Mosi o'Tunya, a custom-built luxury safari boat, that will enable us to safely view wildlife that congregate at the water’s edge at very close range. We will see spectacular vistas lit by an African sunset.

DAY 5: CHOBE – SAVUTI
After a breakfast, check-out for a transfer to Kasane Airport for our flight to Savute Safari Lodge which is located on the banks of the Savuti Channel, the “Stolen River.” On arrival we will be transferred to Savute Safari Lodge for our two-night stay. The area is renowned for its population of bull elephant and for the unique interaction of the resident predator species. The close proximity of wildlife translates itself into the recently refurbished, modern African décor. All suites have private decks, combined bedroom and sitting areas and en-suite facilities. The sitting area, library and cocktail bar are situated in an exquisite thatch and timber main building.

DAY 6: SAVUTI
Open 4x4 game drives are conducted in the Savuti area, including the famous Savuti Marsh, and the ancient San rock paintings at Gubatsa Hills add magic to a fascinating excursion. The Savuti channel is part of the dynamic Savuti ecosystem renowned for its large concentration of elephants and lions. We return to camp after our morning activity and enjoy the available facilities. Savute boasts a viewing deck, an al fresco dining area and swimming pool – which is ideal for watching and photographing game at the waterhole. These features set the lodge apart from other typical safari destinations.

DAYS 7 & 8: OKAVANGO DELTA
After our morning game viewing adventure, we check out and fly to Camp Moremi. We will spend two nights in luxury at Camp Moremi. Situated on the beautiful Xakanaxa Lagoon in the eastern extremity of the Okavango Delta, within the Moremi Game Reserve, Camp Moremi offers an unsurpassed African safari experience. Camp Moremi accommodates only 22 guests in intimate exclusivity in walk-through East African-style safari tents with hot showers and toilets. Shaded by giant ebony trees, the magnificent Moremi Tree Lodge is an elegant elevated thatch and timber structure comprising of a main lounge, wildlife reference library, dining room and stylishly decorated cocktail bar cooled by overhead fans. Activities include morning and afternoon game drives by open 4x4 safari vehicle, excellent bird watching, exploring the Xakanaxa Lagoon and surrounding Okavango channels by powerboat. Trained resident naturalist guides will share their knowledge and deep love of Botswana’s wilderness with us on game drives where sightings of wild dog, cheetah, leopard, lion, elephants and buffalo are regular occurrences.

DAY 9: OKAVANGO DELTA - MAUN – JOHANNESBURG
Today we bid farewell to the amazing Okavango Delta and transfer to the airstrip for our charter flight to Maun, to connect to Johannesburg. On arrival in Johannesburg a representative will meet and assist us with check-in for flight to London. Unless you choose to go on to Cape Town. . .

DAYS 10 & 11. CAPE TOWN OPTIONAL EXTENSION
Fly from Johanesburg to Cape Town. Situated on the southwestern tip of Africa, Cape Town and the Western Cape is recognized as one of the most beautiful places on earth. Offering a range of attractions, breathtaking sights and endless activities, it is a year-round holiday destination with friendly people, a mild climate and rich cultural heritage. From nature reserves, scenic drives and hiking trails to adrenaline rushes in the form of the highest commercial bungee jump in the world at Bloukrans Bridge, world-class shark cage diving or white water canoeing on the Breede River. We will stay three nights at The Commodore Hotel on a bed-and-breakfast basis. Group or individual excursions to be determined.

Day 12: DEPART
Today is departure day. After a leisurely breakfast, check out and transfer to Cape Town International Airport for your homeward journey.

 

 Roundtrip airfare on British Airways between LAX and Johannesburg
Roundtrip air on South African Airlines and Bostwana Airlines
Road transfer from Victoria Falls Airport to Elephant Hills Hotel
2 Nights accommodation in standard twin or double rooms
Breakfast and buffet dinner at Elephant Hills hotel
Sunset cruise, Victoria Falls tour and craft village tour
Afternoon elephant back safari and Boma dinner
Transfer from Victoria Falls to Chobe Game Lodge
2 Nights accommodation at Chobe Game Lodge, standard room
Complimentary mini bar
All meals, refreshments, local spirits and wines, laundry service
Road transfer from Chobe to Kasane
Charter flight from Kasane to Savute Safari Lodge
2 Nights accommodation at Savute Safari Lodge in luxury accommodation
All meals, refreshments, local spirits and wines, laundry service
Flight from Savute Safari Lodge to Camp Moremi
2 Nights accommodation at Camp Moremi in luxury tented accommodation
All meals, refreshments, local spirits and wines, laundry service
Charter flight from Camp Moremi to Maun Airport
Local tour guide escort traveling with the group throughout

Border crossing fees
Visa requirements
Airport taxes
Gratuities

$6995 per person
Price subject to change

$975 pp
Includes roundtrip airfare Johannesburg and Capetown,
3 nights at the Commodore Hotel, ddl occ, breakfast daily.
Sightseeing tours additional.
Costs for tours dependent upon number of travelers
Price subject to change

With Reservation $1000
March 1 $750
April 1 $750
May 1 $750
June 1 $750
July 1 $750
August 1 $750
September 1 Balance

We depart Wednesday November 2, 2011 from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) Terminal B

Depart	Flight #	Departure Time	Destination	Arrival
Wed Nov 2	BA268	9:35pm	London (Heathrow)	2:45pm Nov 3
Wed Nov 3	BA055	5:50pm	London to Johannesburg (Tambo)	6:45am Nov 4
Wed Nov 4	SA	10:50am	Johannesburg to Victoria Falls	12:35pm Nov 4
Sat Nov 12	BP	2:30pm	Maun to Johannesburg	4:30pm Nov 12
Sat Nov 12	BA054	9:25pm	Johannesburg to London (Heathrow)	6:35am Nov 13
Sun Nov 13	BA279	10:14am	London to Los Angeles	1:20pm Nov 13
Extension
Sat Nov 12	TBD		Johannesburg to Cape Town
Tues Nov 15	TBD		Cape Town to Johannesburg
Tues Nov 15	BA054	9:25pm	Johannesburg to London	6:35am Nov 16
Wed Nov 16	BA279	10:14am	London to Los Angeles	1:20pm Nov 16
Airline Codes: BA = British Airways; SA = South African Airways; BP = Botswana Airlines

 

Why Botswana?

Acknowledged as the most successful, politically stable and peaceful of all the African countries, Botswana guarantees a wonderfully unique safari adventure. Its beauty lies in its wilderness, wildlife and cultural diversity. From the crystal-clear waters of the Okavango Delta, also known as the “jewel of the Kalahari,'” with its variety of wildlife and aquatic birds to the large herds of elephant and buffalo in the Chobe National Park to the dry savannah of the Savuti Channel with its ever present predators and migrating zebra. And its proximity to Victoria Falls and Cape Town make this the destination dreams are made of.

How do we get there?

We will fly east on British Airways from Los Angeles to London’s Heathrow Airport, then on to O.R. Tambo International Airport (formerly Johannesburg International Airport or JIA). Tambo is the main gateway for international travel, located approximately 12 miles east of Johannesburg.

Who operates the charter flights?

The air charter service is operated by Safari Air which operates single engined Airvans, Cessna 206s and Cessna Caravans. Some of the lodges have their own private airstrips. Flight times are arranged according to each day's requirements and to fit in with activities. Times therefore vary from day to day and will be communicated to you the afternoon before departure. Flights to Kasane for the Chobe lodges and for Victoria Falls/Livingstone depart early to meet the scheduled road transfers.

What are the luggage restrictions?

For safety reasons Safari Air Charters allows each guest a luggage allowance of 44lbs. This includes camera equipment and hand luggage and must be packed in a soft bag.

Please also note the following for all scheduled air transfers:

• Luggage must be packed in soft bags - no hard suitcases and no bags with wheels can be transported as they physically cannot fit into the aircraft.
• The maximum dimensions of the soft bags which can be accommodated are 10 inches wide x 12 inches high and 24 inches long.
• The baggage compartments on most of the light aircraft are only 10 inches high, so the pilots must have the ability to manipulate the bag into the compartment.

On these small planes, is there a weight limit for passengers?

Yes. Passengers weighing more than 220 lbs must advise the airline in advance; an additional charge may apply.

What are the entry requirements?

All visitors are required to carry a passport that is valid for six months beyond the intended length of stay. There  must be three (3) blank pages for entry stamps upon arrival. 

When is the best time to visit Botswana?

The months between April and November, when large numbers of animals migrate towards the waterways of the Okavango Delta, is the best time to go. November and December — the calving months — are an excellent time to witness nature's own timetable of regeneration. That’s why we picked November!

What is the weather like?

 Botswana's climate is semi-arid. Though it is hot and dry for much of the year, there is a rainy season, which runs through the summer months. Rainfall tends to be erratic, unpredictable and highly regional. Often a heavy downpour may occur in one area while just a few miles away there is no rain at all. Showers are often followed by strong sunshine so that a good deal of the rainfall does not penetrate the ground but is lost to evaporation and transpiration.

'Pula', one of the most frequently heard words in Botswana, is not only the name of Botswana's currency, but also the Setswana word for rain. So much of what takes place in Botswana relies on this essential, frequently scarce commodity.

How should I dress for the safaris?

Since we will be there in the beginning of summer, we can expect the days to be hot and generally sunny in the morning with possible afternoon thunderstorms. Daytime temperatures can rise to the high 90s and night temperatures drop to around the 60s. The afternoons can be very humid.

On safari, most people wear shorts and a T-shirt during the day and put on long sleeved shirts and long pants in the evening for warmth as well as protection from mosquitoes. Should you be particularly sensitive to the sun, a loose cotton shirt is essential during the day. Khaki, brown, olive and beige colors are best for safaris and game walks.

What kind of luggage do you suggest?

For safari travel, the best type of luggage is a soft bag or backpack. As packing space in safari vehicles is limited, only one bag is allowed, but you should also have a daypack for all of your personal items/camera/binoculars. Hard suitcases are usually scuffed or damaged in transit and are inappropriate for a game safari.

What kind of food can I expect?

Luxury camps, hotels and lodges that cater to overseas visitors serve a very international fare, and the quality of food prepared is amazingly high. When coming to Botswana on safari  and staying at luxury resorts such as those chosen for this trip your biggest problem with food is likely to be the very real danger of putting on weight.

What is the currency in Bostwana?

Botswana's unit of currency is the Pula (P), which is divided into 100 Thebe (t). The word 'Pula' means rain and 'thebe' means shield. The shield appears on the national coat of arms. Bank notes come in denominations of P10, 20, 50 and 100, and coins in denominations of 5t, 10t, 25t, 50t, P1, P2 and P5.

Are credit cards accepted?

Yes, major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Diners Club, are accepted widely. Most hotels and lodges accept foreign currency or travelers' checks. There are also currency exchange bureaus at major border posts. Credit card cash advances are available in major cities through Barclays Bank or Standard Chartered Bank. Cash transfers are easiest through Western Union money transfer. Credit card cash is also available at First National Bank.

What language is spoken in Botswana?

Setswana is the national language with minor differences in dialects. However, English is the official business language and it is widely spoken in urban areas with most written communication being in this language. However, knowing and using a bit of Setswana always helps and Batswana will be pleased that you have made the effort. Click on this link to see and hear useful phrases. http://www.botswanatourism.co.bw/about/language.html

What do I need to know about vaccinations and malaria?

Please click on this link to the Centers for Disease Control site on Botwana.
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/botswana.aspx