Botswana is one of Africa’s last great wildernesses. It’s a true ecological success story as well; after adopting a state policy of abandoning mass tourism and encouraging low-volume, high-quality tourism, Botswana has managed to preserve much of its native wildlife and incredibly diverse ecosystems.
Run with strict guidelines and carefully monitored, nearly 40% of the country has been set aside just for wildlife. This land has been split into private reserves and concessions and then leased out to safari companies, which are required to manage the land carefully to prevent overcrowding. The beauty which has remained is a testament to the success of their approach. Moreover, nearly 45% of all people who live in northern Botswana are employed by the tourism and wildlife industry, conserving the landscape and boosting the economy and livelihoods of the people who live there.
Botswana’s many attractions simply emphasize what a gorgeous place it is for the luxury traveller. The Okavango delta is considered one of the most important wilderness sanctuaries in the Africa; it’s the largest inland delta in the world and never actually reaches the sea. Instead, it floods and the water seeps into the parched soil, creating a little bit of paradise in the middle of the Kalahari Desert. You can even take a canoe ride through it! The Moremi Game Reserve lies in the heart of the delta and has very strict guidelines, ensuring that the game remains abundant and safari vehicles are both few and low impact.
For an excellent camp within the Reserve, try Mombo Camp. The camp is always changing, with a vibrant landscape that shifts with the Delta, and nestled within the shadow of ancient trees along a floodplain. The camp is designed with canvas, wood, and thatch, inspired by early African architecture and indigenous patterns, so it fits right in the landscape and feels like a home. All of the tents are suspended in the trees and connected by elevated walkways, so you’ll not only find yourself comfortable among the treetops but have a birds eye view of the animals wandering below! You’ll spot lions, leopards, buffalo, cheetah, and giraffes – if you’re lucky, you might even catch a white or black rhino. The tents themselves are spacious and luxurious, with indoor and outdoor showers and panoramic views across the floodplains.
There are a number of other regions perfect for safaris and luxury travel in Botswana. The Chobe and Linyanti Game Reserves are both excellent choices with a wide range of predators, game, and bird life. Kings Pool Camp in Linyanti is a sumptuous choice, situated on the western boundary of Chobe National Park just before the Kings Pool Lagoon and Linyanti River. Rustic on the outside, luxurious on the inside, the camp has just nine suites that are connected by raised walkways and teak decks. Each has its own living area, bathroom, and private plunge pool and sala. The Honeymoon Suite has a kingsize bed and a ball and claw bath as well. On days out, Kings Pool offers game drives and walking safaris, as well as boat cruises along the river and two ‘hides’, where you can watch the animals from up close and camoflauged. Dinners around the camp fire will help you to feel that you’re truly living Africa.
If you’re looking for a luxury safari in Botswana, give us a call today – 01494 678 400. Ask us about combining a Botswana safari with a week on the beach in Mozambique or Mauritius for the safari beach combo, especially for honeymooners!
