LODGE OF THE WEEK - CAMP OKAVANGO

CAMP OKAVANGO – OKAVANGO DELTA

Camp Okavango is situated on the remote Nxaragha Island in the heart of the permanent Okavango Delta, assuring a year-round water wilderness experience.

CAMP OKAVANGO OVERVIEW
No. of bedrooms: Eleven safari tents with ensuite bathrooms
East African-style safari tents individually situated on raised teak platforms with en-suite facilities and private sun decks. Each tent is exquisitely furnished with an African teak wardrobe, luggage rack, dressing table, bedside pedestals and traditional director's chairs. Colourful woven rugs, designer linen and matching interior blinds complete the setting. Tea and coffee making facilities are also provided to make guests’ stay as comfortable as possible. For those who demand the ultimate in exclusivity, Camp Okavango boasts the “Okavango Suite” a thatched cottage offering complete privacy and the option of private game-viewing activities and dining options – ideal for honeymooners
Recent refurbishments include changing the old zip-up doors with brand new glass sliding doors as entrances.

Season: 08 Jan 08 – 08 Feb 08 Closed
Ideal length of stay: 2 nights/3 days
Central facilities: Camp Okavango’s elegant thatch and lethaka main lodge building features a cocktail bar, lounge and wildlife reference library. The dining room leads onto an expansive open-air patio for evenings around the fireside.

Other facilities include a secluded bird-viewing hide and a sun-kissed deck with plunge pool for relaxing during the hot midday hours

Game activities: All game-viewing activities are conducted by experienced professional guides and include exploring the Okavango by canoe (mokoro) and motorboat.
Guided nature walks on the various islands allow for opportunity to track some of the larger species that inhabit this water wilderness. Bird-watching opportunities are outstanding, and fishing for bream and tiger fish is also offered as an activity at the camp
Please note that children under the age of 16 years may not take part in any walking or mokoro activities.

Geographics
Distance from airstrip: Camp Okavango has its own private airfield which is located a mere five minutes walk from the main lodge area on Nxarahga Island..
Accessible by: Fly-and-Road Transfer

Management
Owner: Owned, Marketed and managed by Desert and Delta Safaris.

Food & drink
Usual board basis: Full Board
Vegetarians and any particular requirements can be catered for on request.
Dining locations: Indoor and Outdoor Dining
The expansive open air patio caters for al fresco meals and evenings around a blazing fire. For a special dining experience, Camp Okavango's silver service dinner, by candelabra, is renowned
Room service: No room service.
Drinks included: All drinks are included in the nightly tariff, with the exception of premium wines and champagne, premium liqueurs and spirits

Children Policy
Age restrictions: Children 12 years of age and over are accepted.
Meals: Special meals can be organised for children on request.

Central communications
Power supply: Generator
Generator power (AC 220V) is available during the day and evening. Video batteries can be recharged. Rooms are equipped with a 220-volt AC plug for hairdryers and 12-volt DC lighting for nighttime use, after the generator has been switched off
Communications:There is no mobile reception, no direct phone or fax and no email Contact in an emergency is made via radio.
TV & radio: There is no television or radio in your room.

Health & safety
Malarial area: Yes
Medical care: All camp managers are first-aid trained and a comprehensive first-aid kit is kept at camp
In an emergency, camps can arrange for clients to be flown out if necessary.
Security measures: Camp Okavango is unfenced, guests are escorted to their rooms after the dark..
Fire safety: There are extinguishers on the balconies of all rooms.

Extras
Laundry facilities: A full laundry service is included.
Accepted payment: Mastercard and Visa credit cards are accepted. Diners and Amex are not.

BOTSWANA IN THE NEWS

Botswana's tourism scoops awards at INDABA 2008

Durban, South Africa - Botswana's Tourism has received three prizes at INDABA.


The prizes, Best Wildlife Reserve in Africa, Best Ecologically Sound Operation and runner-up to the Best Safari Guiding Team in Africa were presented at a ceremony hosted by the Good Safari Guide, an independent directory of the top safari lodges, hotels and camps in Africa and member of the African Travel and Tourism Association (ATTA).
ATTA is a network of over 360 members representing travel and tourism buyers and suppliers throughout Africa with headquarters in London. The association creates a platform for buyers and suppliers to interact at networking events, trade shows, crisis management and tourism seminars through its links with the media.
The awards honour the best in the safari industry. Nominations in 13 categories are accepted only from qualified travel professionals, with a panel of distinguished industry judges making the final tough decisions.

The Moremi Game Reserve
Voted the Best Game Reserve in Africa, the award was received by Botswana Tourism Board chief executive officer (CEO) Myra Sekgororoane. Receiving the award, Sekgororoane said: "This is a great honour and privilege and highlights that Botswana has fulfilled its aim of protecting its wildlife and wilderness for the benefit of future generations."

Kwando Safaris
Kwando Safaris was voted runner-up in the Best Safari Guiding Team. Charles Sebaga received the prize for his team of guides in Botswana. Also present were the owners John and Louis Mynardt, and the managing director, Sue Smart.

Jack's Camp
Based in the Makgadikgadi Game Reserve, Jack's Camp was voted the Best Ecologically Sound Operation. The prize was received by one of the owners Ralph Bousfield, who expressed his hope that the Makgadikgadi continues to receive support by tourists and operators for its long-term sustainability.

SIGHTINGS AT JACKS CAMP

A mother cheetah and two nearly full grown cubs have been seen around the Makgadikgadi Pan - which is very unusual! Guides at Jacks Camp knew that the cheetah were in the area, as they had spotted cheetah tracks near camp a few days before (One appeared to be chasing an aardvark!).

Cheetah do come near to the Makgadikgadi Pans but it is very rare to see them on game drives.

So imagine the surprize when this cheetah family were found next to the Jacks Camp airstrip in the middle of the day panting over a fresh kill!

Nature always has surprizes up her sleeve!!

LUXURIOUS HOUSE-BOAT SAFARI IN CHOBE AREA

Houseboat safaris are a wonderful way to experience the wilderness of Africa. The boat makes a fantastic photographic platform allowing you spectacular scenery and wildlife shots. Whether you are viewing game from the decks, fishing or relaxing in the sun on the top deck, Houseboat safaris offer you a new way of exploring Botswana.

To view the itinerary, please click on the following link

http://www.experience-botswana.co.za/index.php?id=194&busaction=viewitem&itemid=232&viewtype=searched&newcurrentpage=

Cost: US $1 399 per person sharing

Included:

Day 1: Transfer from Victoria Falls Airport to Victoria Falls Safari Lodge
1 Night Victoria Falls Safari Lodge
Accommodation and Breakfast only whilst at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge
Day 2: Road transfer from Victoria Falls Safari Lodge to Kasane Immigration
Transfer from Kasane Immigration to Ichobezi Houseboat
3 Nights on the houseboat
Accommodation, all meals, local brand beverages, national park fees and activities whilst on the houseboat
Day 5: Boat transfer back to Kasane Immigration (where the safari ends.) If you would like to add on additional nights in Chobe, Savuti, Okavango Delta or transfer back to Vic Falls, please enquire with our travel specialists and they can cost accordingly.

Excluded:
All Visa Fees
Lunch, dinner, beverages and activities whilst at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge
Premium brand beverages whilst on the house boat
Items of personal nature
Travel insurance
Tips / Gratuities

Booking notes:
The costs are valid until 31 December 2008
Should there be any single traveller, please contact us for the single supplement costs
Flights are not included in this package

For more information please contact us on reservations@booking.co.bw.

OUR TIME SPENT WORKING AT LITTLE MOMBO - SHARON & LEIGH KEMP

We had the amazing opportunity to work at Little Mombo Camp in 2003 and 2004

Here is an excerpt from our August 2003 month in camp

August 2003

As August draws to a close, the air is heavy with the scent of the yellow flowers of the candle pod acacia and the vervet monkeys are enjoying a bonanza of jackalberries – and it is consequently raining skins and seeds down on the Tent roofs!!!


Monkeys and Baboons think the Mombo tents are the best jungle gym!!

The game at Mombo continues to more than live up to this area’s awesome reputation. Guests enjoying sundowners in the Mombo Lounge were startled to see two lionesses reclining at the water’s edge just metres away. We have been kept awake most nights by the tingling roaring of territorial male lions, and the sawing cough of a leopard has regularly cut through the night. The hyaena’s ghostly whooping and the deep chortling of very amused hippos adds to the strangely melodic choir. Most times the fruit bats and Scops owls have to struggle to make themselves heard over all this din!!! A porcupine has been regularly running across the floodplain at sundowner time, to the delight of many of our guests who have never seen one of these wonderful creatures.
And all this game is of course seen without even leaving Mombo Camp – one afternoon two of our guests, about to head into the bush on a game drive, were dissuaded when they saw first a herd of buffalos and then a breeding herd of elephants pass by their deck and they opted for have a ‘game siesta’ instead!!

Out in the bush, another phenomenal month. A testament to the quality of the game viewing here is that we have had not one but two National Geographic film crew in the area during August, one concentrating on leopards, and the other on the re-introduced rhinos.



The Tortillis female leopard, one of the Mombo regulars, is still fully occupied in bringing up her latest cub – Legadema, now approximately three months old. This cub easily wins out on the cuteness stakes and we have seen some wonderful suckling and playing behaviour between the two coolest cats at Mombo! Legadema’s every mood delights all who see her, and her new game of catch mother’s tail provides endless fun, and not just to the cub. The mother has been doing well in hunting to provide milk for her growing offspring, and just recently we have seen the cub take its first tentative mouthfuls of the impala that will form the mainstay of her diet throughout her life at Mombo.

This young life almost came to an abrupt end one day when the mother was surprised and chased by a troop of baboons. She managed to evade them and at the same time lead them away from where Legadema was hiding, wisely lying low until it was safe to emerge again. A few heart-stopping moments when it looked as if the cub might be discovered, but the game of hide and seek resulted in a total victory for the leopards.


We have seen more elephants than usual in this area, drawn to the water sources, and some of these breeding herds have very young calves – one, still not old enough to use his trunk to drink, struggled to kneel down to get his mouth to the water and at the same time keep up as his herd crossed a channel – there is a lot to learn for a young elephant in the bush………
The Mombo lions continue to do well, bringing down zebra and even one tsessebe. Even Africa’s fastest antelope can’t outrun a cleverly sprung trap. The cheetah are in the area in strength at present, with the veteran Steroid Boys showing that they still have what it takes.

A family staying at Mombo this month was desperate to see a kill but after three days their slightly bloodthirsty dream had not come true. As they sat at the airstrip eating their specially prepared kosher sandwiches, a lioness obliging tripped and strangled a warthog right in front of them. Hopefully they weren’t put off their lunch…….



View from our staff house at Little Mombo!







Mombo is truely a paradise in Africa..............

LODGE OF THE WEEK - LITTLE MOMBO CAMP

The various seasons as photographed from Tent 3 at Little Mombo ....

LITTLE MOMBO - MOREMI GAME RESERVE

Situated off the north-western tip of Chiefs Island and deep within the Moremi Game Reserve is the paradise called “Mombo”
Large concentrations of wildlife occur right in front of Mombo Camp and can be viewed all day from the main deck or from the privacy of your luxury tent. It is quite possible to see up to twelve different mammal species from the comfort of your sala
As a year-round, exclusive wildlife destination, Mombo has a record unequalled in Africa – this is especially the case with the major predators. The Mombo area provides one of the highest quality wildlife viewing opportunities in Africa.. Elephant, Buffalo, Lion, Leopard, Cheetah and all the major predators are common in the region. Birdlife is prolific and so a haven for bird-watchers too! The excellent game at Mombo has made this area Botswana's top wildlife documentary location. National Geographic, the BBC and many others have filmed here.

The most recent film was the ‘Eye of the Leopard” by Dereck and Beverly Joubert - It is the story of a mother and daughter leopard relationship as well as that of an emerging huntress in Botswana’s magnificent Mombo region of the Okavango Delta. Legadema - A small leopard is filmed from when she is just 8 days old until she is 3 years old and on the brink of adulthood.

September 2007 - 28th Academy of Arts and Science, EMMY Awards Ceremony

Eye of the Leopard and its producers, Dereck and Beverly Joubert were honoured as winners of an Emmy Award for Best Science, technology and Nature film on television for the year.

The film was shot over a period of three years, using the finest High Definition imaging equipment, by Dereck and Beverly to enable them to capture the details of this intimate story of a young leopard as she survives the trials and tribulations of growing up in one of the world's most wild and truly natural wildernesses, the Okavango Delta in Botswana.

LITTLE MOMBO OVERVIEW
No. of bedrooms: Three super luxury tents- Little Mombo can accommodate six guests plus tour leader (Mombo Camp has nine luxury tents)
Season: Open Year Round
Ideal length of stay: 3 nights/4 days
Central facilities: Little Mombo offers travelers- small groups or families- the exclusivity of a "private" camp all to themselves. Little Mombo is connected to the main camp via the raised walkways which connect all the guest rooms and both camps. Little Mombo has only three rooms, but it can be increased by booking out rooms from Mombo main camp. The rooms at Little Mombo and main camp are identical and it has its own dining room, kitchen, lounge and swimming pool. The game drive areas are the same and Little Mombo offers the same activities and high-standard experience as at main camp. Little Mombo have a boma for outdoor dining under the stars. For honeymooners, there is a private lounge with sala and a private dining deck
· Game activities: Game drives via 1 x 10-seater open Land Rover for 6 guests
· Private vehicle on request (maximum 5 vehicles in the concession with 3 primarily being used at Mombo main camp, one at Little Mombo and one available for private vehicle booking).
· Short game walks can be offered during siesta time on request. Please note that no rifles are allowed in the Park

Geographics
Distance from airstrip: Little Mombo is 15 minutes drive from the airstrip.
Accessible by: Fly-and-Road Transfer
Flying times:
To/from Maun 30 minutes
To/from Kasane 1hr 20 minutes

Management
Owner: Owned, Marketed and managed by Wilderness Safaris.

Food & drink
Usual board basis: Full Board
Vegetarians and any particular requirements can be catered for on request.
Dining locations: Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Room service: No room service.
Drinks included: All drinks are included in the nightly tariff, with the exception of premium wines and champagne, premium liqueurs and spirits

Children Policy
Age restrictions: Children 8 years of age and over are accepted.
Meals: Special meals can be organised for children on request.
Notes: Little Mombo is a open camp with dangerous wildlife in the area. The rooms and walkways are raised on wooden walkways.

Central communications
Power supply: Generator
Camp has 220v generator powered electricity run in kitchen and main areas when guests are not in camp. When guests return from daily activities, generators generally switched off
220v plugs available in each room for the charging of batteries only 24hrs/day. Guests must provide own power converters.
Solar-heated water
Communications:There is no mobile reception, no direct phone or fax and no email Contact in an emergency is made via radio.
TV & radio: There is no television or radio in your room.

Health & safety
Malarial area: Yes
Medical care: All camp managers are first-aid trained and a comprehensive first-aid kit is kept at camp
Wilderness have an affiliated nurse who is based in Maun and can always be contacted for further medical advice. In an emergency, camps can arrange for clients to be flown out if necessary.
Dangerous animals: High Risk
Security measures: Little Mombo is unfenced, guests are escorted to their rooms after the dark. Sirens are provided in the rooms in case of an emergency.
Fire safety: There are extinguishers on the balconies of all rooms.

Extras
Laundry facilities: A full laundry service is included.
Money: There are safe deposit boxes in the rooms.
Accepted payment: Mastercard and Visa credit cards are accepted. Diners and Amex are not.

NEW PRESIDENT OF BOTSWANA

Festus Mogae stood down as Botswana’s president on 01 April, after a decade in which his country cemented its status as one of Africa’s success stories. Mogae, handed over the reins of power to his long-time heir apparent, Ian Khama.

The new Botswana president is the son of the country’s respected founding president, Sir Seretse Khama. His late father is still a revered figure in Botswana, while the traditional hereditary chieftainship carries a lot of weight and attracts praise, unquestioning loyalty and authority.
Ian Khama obtained his military training at Britain’s famous Sandhurst Academy and took over command of the Botswana Defence Force (BDF) in 1989 when General Merafhe retired to join elective politics.
In 1998, Mr Khama was plucked from the military by his political mentor and predecessor, Festus Mogae, and appointed vice-president.

Excerpt taken from his inaugation speech, President Ian Khama said:

I am confident in the future, and I am determined to build upon the solid foundation that has already been laid since independence by my predecessors. For me to succeed, we must all be growing in success. No one can achieve anything on his or her own. This is our country, the only country we have. Botswana can achieve greater success only if we show a collective will and when we all participate fully in her affairs.
Therefore whatever we do or whatever we say must be done and said in the best interests of this country.....

SAFETY TIPS IN THE BUSH

If you are planning a camping safari for the first time, there is a chance that you may feel frightened or threatened by the possibility of elephants, lion, buffalo, hyaena or other animals roaming freely around the campsite.
This does take time getting used to, and while your first reaction may be to flee it is essential to behave properly near wild animals and avoid potentially dangerous situations.

Our best advice would be to discuss your fears and concerns with a guide or animal expert. Different animals react in different ways and remember the old age advice of "do not panic, but stay calm and keep quiet" is very relevant in the bush too.

Listed below are some tips/advice.....

Always sleep in your tent or vehicle.
Make sure your tent zips up well
Burn all rubbish or dispose of rubbish if there are bin facilities
Cigarette butts must be well extinguished.
Make sure the campfire is well extinguished and cover with sand
Burn all toilet paper.
In most parks and reserves you will be given a designated camping area.
Do not sleep on animal paths, particularly those of hippo.
Do not bathe in or drink from still bodies of water - there is the danger of bilharzia
It is tempting to swim in a lagoon or stream, there is the danger of crocodiles or hippo.
Do not go near the water at night.
Be wary of animals with young.
Never feed the animals or try to touch them.
Do not stray far from the campsite or walk in the bush.

Camping in Botswana provides a unique opportunity to enjoy the beautiful scenery, the clear night skies, diverse wildlife and friendly locals. By following these tips above, you will be protecting yourself and the bush for everyone to enjoy in the future.

FILMING OF NO 1 LADIES' DETECTIVE AGENCY IN BOTSWANA

This is the first film ever shot in this tiny republic, Botswana, with just 1.6 million inhabitants - and carries huge political significance. Botswana has no film industry or infrastructure and has almost no one has any skills connected with movie-making.
Director Minghella was determined to shoot The No1 Ladies' Detective Agency where McCall Smith set it. 'The book is so much about Botswana,' he says. 'In essence, it's a poem about what's beautiful about the country: its tranquillity, its decency, its sense of community. It's unique.'

Financial advisers saw it differently. It would be easier to shoot the film over the border in South Africa, which has a thriving, established industry with experienced crews. But Botswana's political class realised the film and its story could be an opportunity to present the country in a favourable light to the world. The government put up about a third of the film's £7 million production costs on condition that a third of the cast and crew were locals too.

The film's producers have signed a 10 year lease for the area at the foot of Kgale Hill, Gaborone, where they have built the fictional shopping center where Precious Ramotswe opens her storefront detective agency

Some interesting facts about filming the movie:
This is the first motion picture filmed entirely in Botswana
10ft electrified fences surrounded most sets to protect cast and crew from animal attack

Executive producer Anthony Mingella says the following "Filming The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency in Botswana was an amazing adventure" "The people were marvellous and the landscape, especially in the northern areas of the country, is extraordinary." "Particularly fascinating to me was working and filming in an African country where old and new are currently co-existing, where traditional values have not yet been eroded by the demands and efficiencies and neuroses of the modern. It was a privilege to be working on a film which celebrates what we can learn from Africa and not what we think we can teach it."
Anthony Minghella was an Academy Award-winning English film director, playwright and screenwriter and died on March 18 2008 following surgery complications (The television series will still go ahead, despite the shock death of the director.)

US soul singer Jill Scott stars as Precious Ramotswe in The No.1 Ladies’ Detective Agency. This is what she says about filming in Botswana: ‘It was first my time in Africa, and it was the most amazing three months. What I saw with my eyes, what I heard. The Botswanan people’s attitude and energy towards life. I’m sure it sounds like I’m romanticising Botswana. But I’m being completely honest when I say it was the best thing that’s ever happened to me.’

Amy Moore, producer of the film of Alexander McCall Smith’s best-selling novel
This is what she says about the filming: “It was the happiest set I’ve ever worked on, One of the crew said it was the first film set she’d ever worked on where no one was on a diet! There were many women on the set and there was just something about Botswana that gave a relaxed, happy feel to the whole production. “Everyone seemed to want to help, the government was great, the extras and Batswana crew were super-helpful, there was simply no tension, which is unusual on a film set.“

The country is already gearing up for a tourism spin-off from the film. The Kgale Hill set with Mma Ramotswe’s office is being preserved and will become part of a ‘Ladies Detective Agency tour’. There already has been an influx of tourists asking taxi drivers to take them to JLB Matekoni’s Speedy Motors garage or Mma Ramotswe’s house on Zebra Drive!!

The film has provided work, training and opportunity for hundreds of Batswana.

LODGE OF THE WEEK - SELINDA CAMP

Selinda Camp overlooks the Selinda Spillway, a unique seasonal waterway which links the Okavango Delta with the game-rich floodplains of the Linyanti Swamps.
Wide dry grasslands dotted with small 'islands' of palm forest cover the area around the camp. It's a picturesque, open environment. You will often spot game a long way off, and it's perfect for following predators like wild dogs on hunting trails.

SELINDA CAMP OVERVIEW
No. of bedrooms: 9 Spacious luxury safari tents
Each tent has en-suite facilities, a stone bath being the highlight. The bathroom is uniquely "open air" with lots of natural light, yet is screened and virtually insect-proof. The tents are spacious and beautifully appointed with furniture and features that have been collected from around Africa. Four-poster mosquito nets and overhead fans are standard.

Season: Open year round
Ideal length of stay: 3 nights – often combined with Selinda Walking Trails and Zibalianja
Central facilities:
The main lodge has recently been rebuilt (re-opened in March 2007)
The main area boasts a series of expansive decks that invite spectacular views of wildlife that are a visual constant of the camp. The design of the main area is such that there is never a barrier to these views: whether guests are relaxing in the lounge, having brunch under the uniquely designed thatched roof, or sampling the fine cuisine of a three-course dinner on the open "star deck". There is also an photo/art gallery built above a temperature-controlled wine cellar and curio shop. Guests can also enjoy a small plunge pool and the traditional campfire.
Game activities: The Selinda area is characterised by its game-rich floodplains which are host to a variety of bird life (300+species), antelope, zebra, cheetah, wild dog, lion and dry season elephant concentrations. Nocturnal species include serval, porcupine, springhare and possibly leopard. Daily activities revolve around morning, afternoon and night game drives with experienced, professional guides in custom-built 4x4 Land Cruisers. Short walks from camp accompanied by a guide are popular..

Geographics
Accessible by: Fly-and-Road Transfer.
Flights:
When travelling to Selinda Camp you will arrive by means of a light aircraft.
To/from Maun: 45 minutes
To/from Kasane: 55 minutes

Management
Owner: Selinda is owned by Dereck and Beverly Joubert, award-winning filmmakers for National Geographic for over 25 years. They have spent many years spent filming in and around the Selinda area.
Marketed by Wilderness Safaris

Food & drink
Usual board basis: Full Board
Vegetarians and any particular requirements can be catered for on request. (advance notice is needed)
Meals follow a usual safari-camp format, with an early breakfast served around the fire before your morning game drive, a brunch on your return, tea and snacks at about 4.30, and a full 3-course evening meal at around 8pm. At dinner, you are offered a choice of two main courses,
Dining locations: Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Room service: No room service.
Drinks included: Bottled water, soft drinks, local beers and spirits and a selection of red and white wines are included. Champagne and imported wines and spirits will cost extra.

Children Policy
Age restrictions: Children over the age of 8 years are welcome.
Meals: Special meals can be organised for children on request.
Notes: Selinda Camp is very open with dangerous wildlife walking through the camp, so children will need close supervision by adults. Please follow the instructions and guidance of the lodge staff and management at all times.

Central communications
Power supply:
· Camp has 220v generator powered electricity that runs 8hrs per day when guests are out on activities. When guests return from daily activities, generator generally switched off (for peace in camp).
· 220v inverter system is used for lighting and other limited electrical use (no hairdryers) in each tent 24hrs/day.
· Video camera batteries can be charged in each tent 24hrs a day. Please bring a 220v adaptor for a three-pronged round plug and spare battery.

Communications: There is no mobile reception, no direct phone or fax and no email Contact in an emergency is made via radio to Maun
TV & radio: There is no television or radio in your room.

Health & safety
Malarial area: Yes
Medical care: All camp managers are first-aid trained and a comprehensive first-aid kit is kept at camp
Dangerous animals: High Risk
Security measures: Selinda Camp is unfenced, guests are escorted to their rooms after the dark. Alarms, sirens or whistles are provided in the rooms in case of an emergency.
Fire safety: There are extinguishers in all rooms.

Extras
Laundry facilities: A full laundry service is included.
Money: There are safe deposit boxes in the rooms.
Accepted payment: Mastercard and Visa credit cards are accepted. Diners and Amex cards are not.

UPGRADES TO SAVUTI SAFARI LODGE

Savute Safari Lodge has been transformed into a beautiful and elegant lodge.
Savute Safari Lodge accommodates only 24 guests in local timber and glass suites with cool thatching, beautifully furnished in fresh colors. All chalets have private decks, a combined bedroom / lounge area and en-suite facilities, which sets the lodge apart from typical safari accommodation.
The signature blue furnishings have been replaced with more neutral tones and all the chalets and main areas have brand new sleek furniture which blends into the natural surroundings while still maintaining sheer luxury and sophistication.
Savute Safari Lodge re-opened to host guests on 10 February 2008.

RENOVATIONS TO CHOBE GAME LODGE SWIMMING POOL

Chobe Game Lodge will be renovating the main swimming pool area of the lodge in April/May of 2008. The pool area will be closed for renovations from 15 April 2008 to 31 May 2008.

The renovation to the pool will include the removal of the current brick paving and the re-marbelite of the pool. The current pool area will be changed into a natural rock pool with waterfall and splash pool under the waterfall. The new pool will have under water lighting (LED), rock coping around the pool area trees and general pool area. Additional rock features will be built and the pool area walls and stairs will be covered with natural rock cladding. A new new water articulation system with filters will be installed during this renovation.
Everything possible will be done to accommodate the guests over this period by trying to keep noise levels down and the lodge will provide 2 suite swimming pools as alternative venues for guests who are wanting to swim during this renovation period.
Due to the nature of the refurbishment work, Chobe Game Lodge are forced to renovate outside of the yearly rainfall cycle and therefore have to do this in the months of April/May.
The new swimming pool area will be a special attraction to future visitors to Chobe Game Lodge.

CAMP KALAHARI: OPENING DELAYED

Notice received from Uncharted Africa concerning the re-opening of Camp Kalahari:

Due to rezoning issues relating to the proposed fence alignment of CT 11 (the concession in which Jack's Camp & San Camp are located) we have been forced to delay the re-opening of Camp Kalahari until 15th April 2009. We are obviously disappointed that we have to delay this exciting project, but we have been assured by the Botswana Government that these issues will be resolved and that our opening date in 2009 is guaranteed. We apologise for any inconvenience caused by this new development - but it is beyond our control. And is, in the long term, in the best interest of the conservation of this very special area. All existing bookings at Camp Kalahari will be upgraded to the newly refurbished San Camp.
Camp Kalahari is going to be gorgeous!! And a great (affordable, exciting and stylish) Kalahari alternative to Jack’s and San Camp.

LODGE OF THE WEEK - KWANDO LEBALA CAMP

Lebala means wide open spaces in the local Setswana dialect and the scenery is dominated by vast plains with scattered palms and tree clumps backed by wooded savannahs.
Lebala Camp is situated in the South of the Kwando Reserve, adjacent to the head waters of the Linyanti marshes that form the boundary between Botswana and Namibia. The perennial and southerly flowing Kwando River disappears into the vast marshes before emerging as the Linyanti River

KWANDO LEBALA CAMP OVERVIEW
No. of bedrooms: 8 Twin Bedded safari tents
Season: The camp is open year round
Ideal length of stay: 2 nights/3 days
Central facilities:
Lebala Camp comprises of 8 luxurious tents, on Zimbabwe teak decks designed to offer expansive views over the surrounding plains while affording privacy. Each tent has a spacious bedroom area, bathroom including a Victorian ball and claw bath tub and double basin, outside reeded shower and dressing area, and side entrance to preserve privacy. Each secluded tent has its own sundeck, and is set back among the trees
Game activities: At Lebala Camp, the activities concentrate on open vehicle game drives and walking safaris. Game walks are at the guides' discretion due to the concentrations of Elephant. Lebala Camp offers off road and night game drives - night drives being a specialty at Lebala with its high-visibility plains. The wetlands and flood plains around Lebala offer a wonderful variety of wildlife with excellent sightings of elephant, hippo, lechwe, zebra, giraffe, impala, wildebeest, kudu, tsessebe, roan, sable, buffalo and the predators; wild dog, lion, cheetah and hyena.

Geographics
Accessible by: Fly-and-Road Transfer. Road transfers are possible from nearby lodges (Zibalianja, Selinda, Kwando Lagoon).
Flights:
When travelling to Kwando Lebala Camp you will arrive by means of a light aircraft. These air transfers operate from either Maun, Kasane, Livingstone or from one of the other lodges in the area.

Management
Owner: Lebala Camp is owned and operated by Kwando Safaris

Food & drink
Usual board basis: Full Board
Vegetarians and any particular requirements can be catered for on request.
You start your day with a light breakfast before your morning game drive. Brunch is served on your return. Dinner is enjoyed in an open-sided dining room.
In addition to the main meals, afternoon tea before the afternoon activity, sundowner 'snacks' on the afternoon activity and a pre-dinner aperitif around the campfire will be served..
Dining locations: Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Room service: No room service.
Drinks included: All beverages available in camp are included, these are local brand drinks and include bottled and filtered water, soft drinks, local brand beer, selected South African wines, selected spirits, liqueurs and teas/coffee. Champagne and imported wines and selected spirits will cost extra.

Children Policy
Age restrictions: Lebabla camp may accept ages 8 – 12 if a private vehicle is booked. For children under 8 years of age, the full camp must be booked. Children of 12 years and over are welcome.
Meals: Special meals can be organised for children on request.
Notes: Lebala Camp is an open camp with dangerous wildlife in the area. Please follow the instructions and guidance of the lodge staff and management at all times.

Central communications
Power supply:
The camps do not have mains electricity. General lighting is therefore from paraffin oil lamps. However each tent is provided with a battery powered reading lamp in the evening
Please ask the camp manager to arrange for charging of batteries for video cameras as this can be done. It is advisable to have a battery charged while out on drive, so try to keep a full battery on hand and one on charge to ensure continuity
The hot water is from a LP gas powered heater system. This is very efficient but the trigger mechanism requires that you open the tap (faucet) fully to get a strong flow of water to ignite the heater. To regulate the shower you should open the hot tap full and cool it down with the cold water.
Communications: There is no mobile reception, no direct phone or fax and no email Contact in an emergency is made via radio. All Botswana camps are linked with VHF radio with a backup HF radio system
Guests who travel with satellite phones are required to respect the other guests in camp. Satellite phones are only to be used to retrieve messages and to make calls from your personal tent. They are not allowed on game drives.
TV & radio: There is no television or radio in your room.

Health & safety
Malarial area: Yes
Medical care: All camp managers are first-aid trained and a comprehensive first-aid kit is kept at camp
Lebala camp has a 24 hour link through VHF radio to Medical Rescue International in Maun. It is important to note that the airstrips are not lit and therefore night evacuation is not advised and is very seldom attempted due to dangers of animals on the runway. Maun and Victoria Falls are staffed with qualified paramedics who will undertake and coordinate an evacuation if deemed necessary
Dangerous animals: High Risk
Security measures: Lebala Camp is unfenced, guests are escorted to their rooms after the dark. Alarms, sirens or whistles are provided in the rooms in case of an emergency.
Fire safety: There are extinguishers in all the common areas.

Extras
Laundry facilities: Full laundry service is included, except for the washing of underwear.
Money: There are safe deposit boxes at reception
Accepted payment: Mastercard and Visa credit cards are accepted. Diners and Amex cards are not.

LODGE OF THE WEEK - SHINDE CAMP

Shinde Camp is situated on a lush palm island in the heart of the northern Okavango Delta. Shinde Camp is an intimate camp, teeming with animal and birdlife. Present at the main lodge is a unique tree house made of a multi-tiered raised dining/lounge area under canvas.
The exclusive Shinde Enclave is a 'camp within a camp', offering the ultimate in personal service. Consisting of three luxurious tents built on raised teak decks, overlooking the papyrus beds, this area is home to the elusive sitatunga. There is a private dining and lounge area at Shine Enclave. This intimate hideaway also offers guests the services of a private chef, waiter and housekeeper as well as their own professional guide and vehicle.

SHINDE CAMP OVERVIEW
No. of bedrooms: 8 Twin Bedded safari tents
Season: Closed Jan, Feb and December
Ideal length of stay: 2 nights/3 days
Central facilities:
Shinde comprises of eight twin bedded classic safari tents each with en-suite bathrooms, hot and cold running water and flush toilet. There is mosquito proofing, generated electricity, and a private viewing deck. Each tent, strategically positioned, offers splendid views, whether across the Delta’s waterways or open grasslands. Accommodation is generally twin share on comfortable three quarter beds, however double accommodation is available on request.
Shinde is a great honeymoon option in the Okavango Delta where guests are accommodated in the honeymoon tent and enjoy some special touches including the option of private breakfast.
Game activities: Shinde Camp has an ideal location affording both water and land activities throughout the year. Game drives in open 4x4 safari vehicles with a personal guide, guided walks with experienced guides, boating and mokoro excursions. Fly fishing is also available at Shinde Camp.

Geographics
Accessible by: Fly-and-Road Transfer.
Flights:
When travelling to Shinde Camp you will arrive by means of a light aircraft. These air transfers operate from either Maun or Kasane or from one of the other lodges in the area.

Management
Owner: Owned, Marketed and managed by Ker & Downey - Botswana

Food & drink
Usual board basis: Full Board
Vegetarians and any particular requirements can be catered for on request.
You start your day with a light breakfast before your morning game drive. Brunch is served on your return. Dinner is enjoyed in the dining room.
In addition to the main meals, afternoon tea before the afternoon activity, sundowner 'snacks' on the afternoon activity and a pre-dinner aperitif around the campfire will be served..
Dining locations: Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Room service: No room service.
Drinks included: All beverages available in camp are included, these are local brand drinks and include bottled and filtered water, soft drinks, local brand beer, selected South African wines, selected spirits, liqueurs and teas/coffee. Champagne and imported wines and selected spirits will cost extra.

Children Policy
Age restrictions: Children 10 yrs and older unless Shinde Enclave is booked.
Meals: Special meals can be organised for children on request.
Notes: Shinde Camp is an open camp with dangerous wildlife in the area. Please follow the instructions and guidance of the lodge staff and management at all times.

Central communications
Power supply:
220V by generator run when guests are not in camp, clients to bring own adaptor and very limited use of power only, (charging cameras batteries etc, not for appliances such as hairdryers due to low wattage fuse system). 24 hour lighting provided by an inverter system within camp
Communications: There is no mobile reception, no direct phone or fax and no email Contact in an emergency is made via radio.
Shinde has a satellite phone which enables guests to make calls out of camp to anywhere in the world (at own expense), and it can be arranged through the Maun office or by return phone call for an inbound call for Emergency use. The phone is not switched on at all times hence the need for a pre-arranged call time.
TV & radio: There is no television or radio in your room.

Health & safety
Malarial area: Yes
Medical care: All camp managers are first-aid trained and a comprehensive first-aid kit is kept at camp
In the case of a genuine medical emergency, Ker & Downey can have a Medivac aircraft dispatched to camp immediately. Depending upon the needs of the patient, he/she will be transported either to a hospital in Maun or Johannesburg for treatment. Minor medical needs can be treated in camp
Dangerous animals: High Risk
Security measures: Shinde Camp is unfenced, guests are escorted to their rooms after the dark. Alarms, sirens or whistles are provided in the rooms in case of an emergency.
Fire safety: There are extinguishers in all rooms.

Extras
Laundry facilities: A full laundry service is included.
Money: There are safe deposit boxes in the rooms.
Accepted payment: Mastercard and Visa credit cards are accepted. Diners and Amex cards are not.

LODGE OF THE WEEK - SAVUTI SAFARI LODGE

SAVUTI SAFARI LODGE - SAVUTI AREA OF CHOBE NATIONAL PARK

Savute Safari Lodge is located on the banks of the Savute Channel in the Chobe National Park, forming part of the rich Savute ecosystem. The Savuti Marsh, is a remnant of a vast inland lake, cut off from its supply of water many years ago by the same movement of the earth`s tectonic plates that brought the Okavango Delta into existence. It is part of the Mababe Depression and is fed by the temperamental Savuti Channel, which has not seen flowing water since it dried up in 1982.
The world-acclaimed game viewing of Savuti is an experience not to be missed. Dry season game viewing concentrates on Savuti's famous resident bull Elephants, antelope and Lion prides around half-empty pans and permanent waterhole's. Summer rains bring a feast for Lion, Hyena and Cheetah as thousands of migrating Zebra and Wildebeest assemble on the Savuti Marsh

SAVUTI SAFARI LODGE OVERVIEW
No. of bedrooms: 12 Twin Bedded chalets
Season: Closed 08 Jan 2008 – 10 Feb 2008
Ideal length of stay: 2 nights/3 days
Central facilities:
Savute Safari Lodge peers out from ancient camel thorn trees on the shore of the Savuti channel. The lounge, library and cocktail bar are situated in the exquisite thatch and timber main building, where an upstairs viewing deck allows Savute’s enchanting sunsets to mesmerize guests. A large fireplace downstairs is equally inviting on winter nights, while the delicious aroma of dinner and the prospect of candlelit dining beckons guests to the elegant dining-room. The lodge also boasts a swimming pool and shaded viewing deck, both of which overlook the channel, and where afternoon tea is served and guests can sit around the campfire after dinner.
Savute Safari Lodge accommodates only 24 guests in local timber and glass suites with cool thatching and beautifully furnished. All chalets have private decks, a combined bedroom / lounge area and en-suite facilities
Savute Safari Lodge has very recently undergone a refurbishment and has been transformed into an elegant lodge. The signature blue furnishings have been replaced with more neutral tones and all the chalets and main areas have brand new furniture which blends into the natural surroundings
Game activities: Game drives in open 4x4 safari vehicles in the Savute area, including the Savute Marsh and a visit to the ancient San rock paintings at Gubatsa Hills

Geographics
Accessible by: Fly-and-Road Transfer. Savute Safari Lodge can also be reached by 4x4 vehicle
Flights:
When travelling to Savute Safari Lodge you will arrive by means of a light aircraft. These air transfers operate from either Maun or Kasane or from one of the other lodges in the area. The main gateway into this area is Victoria Falls, Livingstone or Maun Airport

Management
Owner: Owned, Marketed and managed by Desert & Delta Safaris

Food & drink
Usual board basis: Full Board
Vegetarians and any particular requirements can be catered for on request.
You start your day with a light breakfast before your morning game drive. Brunch is served on your return. A silver service dinner enjoyed either in the elegant dining room or outside on the deck.
Dining locations: Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Room service: No room service.
Drinks included: Bottled water, soft drinks, local beers and spirits and a limited selection of local brand wines are included. Champagne and imported wines and spirits will cost extra.

Children Policy
Age restrictions: Children of 12 years of age and over are accepted. Children aged 16 yrs (inclusive) & younger to share with a parent at all times
Meals: Special meals can be organised for children on request.
Notes: Savuti Safari Lodge is an open camp with dangerous wildlife in the area. Please follow the instructions and guidance of the lodge staff and management at all times.

Central communications
Power supply: Generator
Video batteries can be charged when guests on game drives. Hence bring spare battery and charging unit.
Communications: There is no mobile reception, no direct phone or fax and no email Contact in an emergency is made via radio.
TV & radio: There is no television or radio in your room.

Health & safety
Malarial area: Yes
Medical care: All camp managers are first-aid trained and a comprehensive first-aid kit is kept at camp
Dangerous animals: High Risk
Security measures: Savuti Safari Lodge is unfenced, guests are escorted to their rooms after the dark. Alarms, sirens or whistles are provided in the rooms in case of an emergency.
Fire safety: There are extinguishers in all rooms.

Extras
Laundry facilities: A full laundry service is included.
Money: There are safe deposit boxes in the rooms.
Accepted payment: Mastercard, Diners and Visa credit cards are accepted. Amex cards are not.