"We must use time wisely and forever realize that the time is always ripe to do right"
...Nelson Mandela
|
|
|
|
|
The big idea The best ideas are always the most simple. Simply stated, the idea of the 5 Rivers Safari originated with 4 companies who have common core beliefs about wildlife and conservation in Africa. Not only do each of the 5 Rivers partners have an excellent reputation for service excellence and attention to detail in their respective areas, but own and operate properties which in combination with each other are guaranteed to offer the very best safari experience in these niche regions of Southern Africa. In essence, 1+1=3 for your clients Visitors to Southern Africa aim to do 3 things on average: - Visit Cape Town and surrounds
- Visit the Victoria Falls
- Undertake a safari
Combinations of these camps in unique itineraries is not possible in any other way, so you have the inherit efficiencies of dealing with a “big company” without the blandness and uniformity of recipe that big companies bring to a safari experience. So book with any of the 4 companies any itinerary and they take care of the details – just like a big company would. However achieve the world class experience that only small owner operated camps and lodges can offer.  The concept started with the concept that Cape Town is the big driver of tourism into Southern Africa and is a summer market (October to April). The 5 rivers area on the other hand is counter cyclic to this main market with us being busiest in the July to October period. The South African safari lodges are busiest in the rainy season due to Cape Town driving the market. Consequently their highest prices are levied when the safari experience is at it’s lowest. While the 5 rivers area is also a summer rainfall season, we are part of the Kalahari Desert, with mean annual rainfall from 375mm in the Kalahari ecosystem area and up to 475mm in the Caprivi Strip and Chobe areas. On the other hand the game rich areas of South Africa receive an average of 650 –675 mm of rain. So we offer a quality safari experience at a fraction of the price of South Africa for the December to March period. So the big idea is simply illustrated as follows: - Visit Cape Town
- Do a 5 rivers safari
That then deals with the perfect Southern African itinerary as the 5 rivers safari offers the following potential: - The Victoria Falls from Zambia
- The world renowned Chobe elephant experience from a boat
- The Caprivi Strip
- The Kwando Linyanti system
- The Okavango Delta
- The Kalahari Desert in summer
- Nxai Pan National Park
Where else can you get all this? |
Western Zambia…
The Zambezi River, the biggest in Southern Africa, forms a drainage system that controls the future and fate of the other four rivers and their ecosystems. When the upper Zambezi thunders over the awe inspiring wall of basalt into the chasm below, then you will understand why you and the millions before you have journeyed to this place in Africa.
Livingstone, known as the Adventure Capital of Africa will allow you access to the incredible array of adventures Victoria Falls has to offer beyond the majesty of the Falls themselves; river rafting, bungi jumping, elephant back safaris, canoeing, river boarding, golf, sedate river cruising, fishing, flight of Angels over the Falls and so much more. In addition to the vast activity choices available, the Stanley Safari Lodge experience allows one the additional opportunity of exploring the rich cultural heritage of the area.
Chobe region – Namibia …
Proceeding upstream through Livingstone, a town frozen in the 1950’s, and through the red Kalahari dunes that are sheltered in teak forests to the Kazungula ferry at the junction of Namibia, Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Once across into Botswana, a short commute will see you into the village of Kasane on the banks of the famous Chobe River. Renowned for being where Richard Burton was inspired to propose to Elizabeth Taylor for the second time and for offering the best boat based game experience in Africa.
The Chobe River is in fact mostly a secret offshoot of the Zambezi river absorbing the Zambezi flood waters to drink vast herds of game on it’s extensive banks. The river is famous for delivering the best elephant and game viewing from a boat - in the world. Your cruise across to the secluded Ntwala Island Lodge will take you through the waterways into the main Zambezi River where this private island lodge will cater to your personal needs while offering you the famous Chobe experience.
Caprivi strip – Namibia…
Your light aircraft lifts off the island runway near Ntwala Island Lodge for a scenic transfer over the Zambezi flood plains and the Caprivi Strip of Namibia to offer a complete view of this flat land before landing near Susuwe Island Lodge, situated on the Kwando River.
Feel pampered in your room with a view which includes a personal plunge pool, world-class hospitality in remote Africa and exciting game viewing in the Bwabwata Game Reserve.
Kwando/ Linyanti river system- Botswana…
Here you have the choice of Lagoon or Lebala luxury tented camps where the emphasis is on “intimate camps in private areas with personal service – vintage Africa”. Both these camps concentrate on the game experience with our guide and trackers taking you out on safari both off road and at night. This area is famous of its high concentrations of elephant, buffalo and predators.
Okavango Delta – Botswana…
Okavango Delta
The light aircraft pops out of the sky, on time as always, for the 30-minute transfer to Kwara camp in the heart of the permanent water of the Okavango Delta – the most distinctive inland Delta in the world fed by the Okavango River. Kwara’s 8 luxury tents set under a canopy of large shady trees offer the ideal starting point for Mokoro trips into the Delta as well as power boat rides right into the heart of Moremi Game Reserve’s Godikwe Lagoon system – famous for the breeding colonies of water birds. Kwara also offers game drives with guides and trackers both off road and at night.
The boat will slice through the clandestine and tortuous channels of the Delta and deliver you to a wonderful peninsula in the Xakanaxa Lagoon where the renowned Xakanaxa Camp is sited. Right in the heart of the world famous Moremi Game Reserve the camp offers the full range of water based activities as well as excellent guided game drives famous for its predators and general game. The special brand of hospitality and personal touches for which the camp is celebrated will ensure that you leave feeling that longer would have been better.
Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR)
Tau Pan Camp is situated inside this world famous Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR) right on the edge of the beautiful Tau Pan. After the summer rains –the CKGR completely transforms as the blue sky fills with huge clouds, and the plains and pans burst with sweet grasses.
This is one of the best game viewing areas in Botswana at this time of year and not many people to seem to aware of this – so the visitors are few. The CKGR gets the migratory animals such springbok, zebra and wildebeest in their thousands and is quite a sight to behold. Predators abound with plentiful Lions – especially the famous Kalahari black-maned Lion, Cheetah, Leopard and Jackals. Brown Hyenas and Wild Dogs are also found in the area.
Several species of antelopes make the trip to the sweet grasses of the CKGR which include the Eland, Springbok, Steenbok, Gemsbok, Hartebeest, Kudu and Duiker. Honey Badgers are regular visitors as well as Ground Squirrels and many an hour can be wiled away watching these fascinating animals. The dry season (May-September) is also a wonderful time to visit the CKGR as the animals congregate close to any surface water and pans.
CKGR Specialties:
•Amazing visual display of cloud formations and lightning storms during the summer rains
• Breathtaking night skies
• Access to beautiful Tau Pan and world famous Deception Valley
• Fascinating reptiles and insects
Nxai Pan National Park
Nxai Pan National Park lies just north of the Maun-Nata road and adjoins Makgadikgadi Pans National Park on its northern border. Nxai Pan was originally state land and an area of 1676 sq. km was declared a game reserve in 1970, and then in 1992 the boundaries were extended to include Baines Baobabs to give the present total area of 2578 sq km and National Park Status was granted. The Nxai Pans were once part of the great lake that covered central Botswana – which included The Okavango Delta, Makgadikgadi and Lake Ngami to name a few. The Pan itself is another fossil lakebed about 40 sq km in size. The landscape is largely covered by grassland and dotted with clusters of umbrella acacia tree’s and mopane woodland in the north. During the rains from November to April – the pans become covered in grass which is a landscape very similar to the Kalahari.
Nxai Pan has also achieved fame from the IMAX movie “Roar” – where Tim Liversedge and National Geographic filmed this epic documentary that showcases a battle between an aging lion and a young challenger, who wants the older lion's wives and the water hole. Nxai pan is well known for its huge springbok population and once the rains have started, gemsbok, elephant and zebras migrate to the region. At this time zebra’s come in their thousands to drop their young at Nxai Pan.. These large herds of zebras, springbok, and wildebeest attract many predators – lion, cheetah, jackal and both spotted and the elusive brown hyena, as well as the endangered wild dog and the secretive leopard. There are large numbers of bat-eared fox and raptors that prey on the rodents and reptiles. At times, Rhino’s have also been sighted. Also to be seen are the eland, greater kudu and red hartebeest. Once the rains have started – the bird life is excellent.
Kwando SafarisKWARA CAMP - Kwara Concession - Permanent Okavango Delta | |
Kwara Camp is located in the heart of a large concession of 1750 sq km on the northern boundary of the world famous Moremi Game Reserve On a large island hidden under massive trees are eight specially designed safari tents on teak decks. Each tent with its en suite facilities has a view over the floodplains of the Delta. The guest areas consist of lounge, bar, dining area, small gift shop and plunge pool. The attraction of Kwara is its range of activities in an area of intricate channels, rivers, lagoons, dramatic palm-fringed islands, reed beds, floating grasses and papyrus that form a natural wilderness like no other Year round powerboat trips due to the presence of permanent water. Mokoro excursions for which the Okavango Delta is famous are also a year round activity. Water experiences combined with the ability to drive both off-road and at night add to the uniqueness of Kwara. Experience the peace and tranquillity of gliding silently through the Delta waters in the early morning and feel the pulse and excitement of a lion hunt at night. Whilst on an island walk with an armed guide you will learn about their deep beliefs and knowledge of the intricacies of nature. The birds of the Delta are both colourful and melodious and the guides will reveal them to you from close range. Godikwe Lagoon is one of the largest bird breeding colonies in Botswana. From September to December thousands of birds and their young may be viewed in their nesting grounds from Kwara’s double decker pontoon boat. Fishing for bream, catfish and pike is excellent. The staff at Kwara Camp subscribe to Kwando Safaris' core values of delivering a personal service in an intimate camp within a stunning private concession area offering a host of activities. KWANDO LEBALA CAMP - big game Kwando Concession Lebala - in the Setswana language means wide-open spaces. Situated in the southern part the 232, 00 hectare private Kwando concession Lebala Camp is sited on a peninsula of land jutting into the Linyanti marshes that surround the camp. The Kwando River disperses into the marshes which is a permanent patchwork of reed beds, wetlands, palm covered islands and open plains. Recently renovated in May 2008 – Lebala has eight spacious tents that are built on raised teak decks designed to offer expansive views over the surrounding plains while affording guests privacy. The teak furniture created for us by Zimbabwean master craftsmen is elegant, comfortable and simple, leaving the tent looking spacious and tasteful. The clean simple lines created by the shade cloth, and variety of curtains, will complete the picture of privacy and space. The shade cloth walls allow you to view the sunrises and sunsets from the safety of your rooms whilst also viewing the elephant’s walk past your room in the light of the full moon. The tents have an entrance area with closets, a separate bedroom and a spacious bathroom with his and hers basin, classic Victoria ball and claw bathtub and a double outdoor shower for those who enjoy the night stars The thatched guest areas consist of a north facing lounge with large roof overhang, dining area, bar and plunge pool. Game viewing from the comfort of the camp itself has often proved a rewarding experience as the elephant herds move past the camp to their feeding and drinking places. The combination of the Linyanti marshes, seasonal flood plains, savannah and wooded Mopane scrub makes an ideal assortment of eco-systems for excellent game viewing. Species such as Lechwe, impala, kudu, zebra, blue wildebeest, hippo, giraffe, tsessebe, roan, sable, buffalo and elephant are regularly sighted. These species in turn attract ever-attendant predators including the endangered wild dog Game drives are in open vehicles that drive off road. Nighttime sightings of mammal behaviour are a highlight at Lebala with its high visibility plains. The nocturnal birds witness many of the dramas played out under cover of darkness in scenes straight from the script of a wildlife video. This is the reason that many wildlife filmmakers and photographers have spent time at Kwando. For those guests searching for a true wilderness experience the intimate design of the camp, combined with the private concession, personal service and a flexible approach Lebala is a must KWANDO LAGOON CAMP - big game Kwando Concession Located in the 232,000-hectare private Kwando concession that is fronted by more than 80 km of the Kwando River, which divides northwestern Botswana from the Caprivi Strip. Lagoon Camp lies on the shady banks of a permanent lagoon formed by the meandering Kwando River among tall and ancient Africa Ebony and Marula trees With only eight safari tents Lagoon Camp has the charm that only a small camp can possess. Each purpose designed tent comprises an entrance area, large bedroom with extra long three quarter beds, en suite reed enclosed facilities with his and hers basins, flush loo and outside shower. The tents overlook the water of the Lagoon Lagoon Camp is designed to have its own unique character and charm and is not part of a formula approach. The lounge, bar and dining area is under thatch and nearby there is a small plunge pool. Activities concentrate on open vehicle game drives and boat cruises on the river. Walks are on offer but at the guide’s discretion due to the concentrations of elephant. Lagoon Camp offers off road and night drives so essential for the real African experience. The purpose built camp boat floats noiselessly in the current of the Kwando River while you can spot game from the upper deck. Stop for a spot of fishing in the river or its numerous lagoons and catch the fighting tiger fish, bream, catfish and pike. The Kwando concession offers exclusive access to one of the most remote and unexplored wildlife strongholds left in Botswana.
The area incorporates part of the Linyanti wetlands, huge tracts of Mopane forest and vast open plains. This variety of natural habitat makes Kwando unique, drawing wildlife and bird life in abundance as herds of elephant and buffalo roam the plains adjoining the Kwando River, whilst lion, leopard, cheetah, wild dog and sable are frequently sighted. For the sixth consecutive year wild dogs have denned near Lagoon camp thus providing guests with excellent sightings TAU PAN CAMP
The first permanent camp to be built in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve is situated on an established sand ridge overlooking Tau Pan from which the camp takes its name. This raised location ensures stunning views of the both the permanent Tau Pan water hole and the endless Kalahari horizon. With due consideration to the fragility of the desert eco system, great care was taken to ensure that the camp’s footprint was minimal in every sense. The entire camp relies upon solar generated power reducing the need to use and transport diesel, while gas usage is hugely reduced through the installation of solar water heaters. Waste water is treated in an above ground plant and the treated and palatable water then piped to water hole for animals, therefore ensuring no cross contamination to the surrounding ground water and soils. Guests are accommodated in eight desert adapted rooms with thatched roves and insulated walls which maintain and a constant temperature during the extremes of the desert summers and winters. Each room has a seating/writing area, double basins, inside and outside shower and a separate toilet. Each room also has ceiling fan. Many an hour can be spent on your private balcony enjoying the vastness of the Kalahari. The main area consists of dining room with a communal dining table, a lounge and bar area, curio shop and a viewing deck. Adjoining the main deck is a swimming pool and loungers. The fireplace is set into the deck and there is no better place to be in the morning to watch the sunrise over the Kalahari. Activities whilst at Tau Pan include game drives around the immediate area and also day trips to wider regions of the Reserve such as Sunday Pan, Pipers Pan and Deception Valley. All our game drive activities consist of a guide and a tracker. Guests may also learn more about the natural environment and the adaptation of the local people to this arid world during the nature survival walks, when you are accompanied by a San tracker and a professional guide.
NXAI PAN NATIONAL PARK
Situated on a tiny tree island on the furthest western edge of the Nxai Pan, the camp consists if eight desert adapted rooms with thatch roofs and specially designed insulated walls, including a family room. The family room can accommodate a family of four in two separate twin rooms with shared bathroom. All the rooms have ceiling fans, outside showers and a private viewing deck - so you can relax in the afternoon and watch the herds of zebra and huge elephant bulls as they meander past your room to the camp’s water hole. The main area consists of a dining room, lounge area, curio shop, swimming pool and a large unobstructed viewing deck. With due consideration to the fragility of the desert eco system, great care was taken to ensure that the camp ’s footprint was minimal in every sense. The entire camp relies upon solar generated power reducing the need to use and transport diesel, while gas usage is hugely reduced through the installation of solar water heaters. Waste water is treated in an above ground plant and the treated and palatable water then piped to water hole for animals, therefore ensuring no cross contamination to the surrounding ground water and soils. Activities whilst at Nxai Pan include game drives around the immediate area and also day trips to wider regions of the Park including the famous Baines ’ Baobabs. All our game drive activities consist of a guide and a tracker. Guests may also learn more about the natural environment and the adaptation of the local people to this arid world during the nature survival walks, when you are accompanied by a San tracker and a professional guide
STANLEY SAFARI LODGE - The best of Victoria Falls from Zambia Each of the seven luxury cottages is individually designed and decorated with local materials. The accommodation ranges from double cottages, to the honeymoon suite –with both its own fireplace and plunge pool. The cottages have their own private garden and dining area. The open-sided design affords a unique view across the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park to the mighty Zambezi River and the Victoria Falls – one of the Seven Natural Wonders Of The World. The main house provides the setting for the French style cuisine; alternatively dine under the stars on the lawn or in the privacy of your own cottage, whilst enjoying the personal service of the Zambian staff, all with an in-depth knowledge of Livingstone and its environs. Spend your days enjoying the Victoria Falls area, or by the pool, spotting animals at the nearby watering hole. Evenings can be spent sampling wine from the cellar or unwinding by the hearth, with the matchless African skies providing an unforgettable backdrop. The Victoria Falls area boasts a wealth of activities to uit every taste. With Stanley Safari Lodge as your base, we are happy to book any of these activities, including: - daily safaris in Chobe National Park, Botswana (home of the world’s largest elephant population)
- rhino spotting in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
- elephant-back safaris
- visits to a real African village
- micro light or helicopter flights
- canoeing, fishing or sunset cruises on the mighty Zambezi
- rafting, bungee jumping, abseiling and jet boating for the more adventurous
Islands in AfricaNTWALA ISLAND LODGE |
|
Ntwala Island Lodge is a wonderfully secluded Chobe destination, situated
only 70 kilometres upriver from the Victoria Falls - where white sand
beaches and palm trees add to the romance. Intricate floating walkways,
surrounded by wild and powerful waterways, link an untouched Namibian
cluster of islands in the heart of the Mambova Rapids. Ntwala Island Lodge
comprises four ultra-luxury styled suites, each inclusive of a private
plunge pool and viewing deck; annex bath feature; indoor and outdoor shower; as well as a private sala extending enticingly out over the water. We ensure personalised service and culinary expertise as well as privately guided activities(big game, fishing and birding). Ntwala also offers exclusivity and intimacy within a complete holistic African experience. Meander between the multiple waterways with your personal guide and private boat, cruise the quiet backwaters or revel in an exclusive Chobe sunset cruise while viewing a plethora of game. Pursue the famed tigerfish
on fly with excitement and anticipation. SUSUWE ISLAND LODGE Susuwe Island Lodge offers visitors the opportunity to experience closely a wild and untouched island in Africa. Situated in north-eastern Namibia, our island is in the remote Kwando River - a permanent water source which nourishes delicate ecosystems and sustains varied game and birdlife. Relaxation, privacy and comfort are paramount here. Susuwe Island Lodge is built to incorporate the riverine forest - the main complex has lofty canopy viewing decks overlooking endless savannahs, glistening lily-studded wetlands and ancient Kalahari woodlands, as well as a firepit, spacious lounge and dining areas, curio shop and small reference library. Six spacious brick and thatch suites equipped with double bathroom, bedroom, lounge and wooden viewing deck each with private plunge pool offer our visitors the opportunity to merge unhurriedly with Africa's timeless evolution of hazy days and star-studded nights. Mosquito nets, overhead fans and hairdryers as well as generated electricity are provided. Game sightings in this cradle of rivers could include vast herds of roaming elephant and buffalo, lion, hippo, leopard, sable, roan, lechwe and puku. We offer game drives in open 4x4 vehicles in the Bwabwata National Park, as well as boat cruises on the Kwando River.
Xakanaxa CampXAKANAXA CAMP - Moremi Game Reserve - Permanent Okavango Delta |
|
Big lagoons and big game, a land and water experience in the Okavango Delta! Xakanaxa Camp is located in the heart of the Moremi Game Reserve, which rates as one of Africa’s most beautiful game reserves, offering sanctuary to abundant herds of elephant, sable, giraffe, tsessebe, lechwe, wildebeest, impala, waterbuck and large herds of buffalo. Lion, leopard, cheetah, wild dog and hyena complete the picture. Situated on the Xakanaxa Lagoon, where boat and mokoro (dug-out canoe) trips explore the sinuous channels and floodplains of the Delta, one of Africa’s greatest natural wonders. Towering riverine forests, open savannah, seasonal floodplains, permanent lagoons, rivers and the intricate channels of the Okavango Delta surround the camp and make for a varied habitat that ensures the safari traveller the opportunity to experience year – round boating and mokoro trips as well as extensive game drives. Birding is quite spectacular, as huge numbers of breeding storks and herons are attracted to the world-famous heronries which lie to the north of the lodge. Xakanaxa Camp accommodates 24 guests in twelve classic safari tents on raised platforms on the water’s edge, each with a private viewing deck overlooking the Xakanaxa Lagoon. Each tent is tastefully furnished with twin or double beds, en-suite facilities with hot shower, hand basin and w.c, fans, battery charged reading lights, safes, plug points, dressing table and comfortable deck chairs. With its eclectic mix of furnishings from all over Africa, the camp has a dining room, lounge/bar area, fire deck and plunge pool all slightly raised on wooden platforms with spectacular views over the lagoon. At night the camp looks stunning as it is lit by dozens of paraffin lamps and candles.
What makes Xakanaxa Camp special to its many return guests is its long history as a family run business, its traditional and authentic tented safari lodge feel, the attention to detail, great wholesome food, its personalised and consistent service of staff who have been at the lodge for up to 2 decades, its views over the Delta and its reputation as one of the first lodges in the Okavango Delta- one of the worlds most pristine wildlife areas!
Camps summary tableCamps | Rooms | Pool | Game drive | Boat
Cruise | Mokoro
Trips | Walks | Fishing | Country | Stanley Safari Lodge | 10 | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | Zambia | Ntwala Island Lodge | 4 | Y | N | Y | N | Y | Y | Namibia | Susuwe | 6 | 6Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | Namibia | Lagoon | 8 | Y | Y | Y | N | Seasonal | Y not in Jan or Feb* | Botswana | Lebala | 8 | Y | Y | N | N | Seasonal | N | Botswana | Kwara | 8 | Y | Y | Y | Y | Seasonal | Y not in Jan or Feb* | Botswana | Xakanaxa | 12 | Y | Y | Y | Y | N | N | Botswana | Nxai Pan | 8 | Y | Y | N | N | Y | N | Botswana | Tau Pan | 8 | Y | Y | N | N | Y | N | Botswana | | * In terms of a new regulation recently introduced no fishing is allowed during Jan and Feb |
|
The big ideaThe best ideas are always the most simple. Simply stated, the idea of the 5 Rivers Safari originated with 4 companies who have common core beliefs about wildlife and conservation in Africa. Not only do each of the 5 Rivers partners have an excellent reputation for service excellence and attention to detail in their respective areas, but own and operate properties which in combination with each other are guaranteed to offer the very best safari experience in these niche regions of Southern Africa. In essence, 1+1=3 for your clients Visitors to Southern Africa aim to do 3 things on average: - Visit Cape Town and surrounds
- Visit the Victoria Falls
- Undertake a safari
Combinations of these camps in unique itineraries is not possible in any other way, so you have the inherit efficiencies of dealing with a “big company” without the blandness and uniformity of recipe that big companies bring to a safari experience. So book with any of the 4 companies any itinerary and they take care of the details – just like a big company would. However achieve the world class experience that only small owner operated camps and lodges can offer. The concept started with the concept that Cape Town is the big driver of tourism into Southern Africa and is a summer market (October to April). The 5 rivers area on the other hand is counter cyclic to this main market with us being busiest in the July to October period. The South African safari lodges are busiest in the rainy season due to Cape Town driving the market. Consequently their highest prices are levied when the safari experience is at it’s lowest. While the 5 rivers area is also a summer rainfall season, we are part of the Kalahari Desert, with mean annual rainfall from 375mm in the Kalahari ecosystem area and up to 475mm in the Caprivi Strip and Chobe areas. On the other hand the game rich areas of South Africa receive an average of 650 –675 mm of rain. So we offer a quality safari experience at a fraction of the price of South Africa for the December to March period. So the big idea is simply illustrated as follows: - Visit Cape Town
- Do a 5 rivers safari
That then deals with the perfect Southern African itinerary as the 5 rivers safari offers the following potential: - The Victoria Falls from Zambia
- The world renowned Chobe elephant experience from a boat
- The Caprivi Strip
- The Kwando Linyanti system
- The Okavango Delta
- The Kalahari Desert in summer
- Nxai Pan National Park
Where else can you get all this? |
Western Zambia…
The Zambezi River, the biggest in Southern Africa, forms a drainage system that controls the future and fate of the other four rivers and their ecosystems. When the upper Zambezi thunders over the awe inspiring wall of basalt into the chasm below, then you will understand why you and the millions before you have journeyed to this place in Africa.
Livingstone, known as the Adventure Capital of Africa will allow you access to the incredible array of adventures Victoria Falls has to offer beyond the majesty of the Falls themselves; river rafting, bungi jumping, elephant back safaris, canoeing, river boarding, golf, sedate river cruising, fishing, flight of Angels over the Falls and so much more. In addition to the vast activity choices available, the Stanley Safari Lodge experience allows one the additional opportunity of exploring the rich cultural heritage of the area.
Chobe region – Namibia …
Proceeding upstream through Livingstone, a town frozen in the 1950’s, and through the red Kalahari dunes that are sheltered in teak forests to the Kazungula ferry at the junction of Namibia, Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Once across into Botswana, a short commute will see you into the village of Kasane on the banks of the famous Chobe River. Renowned for being where Richard Burton was inspired to propose to Elizabeth Taylor for the second time and for offering the best boat based game experience in Africa.
The Chobe River is in fact mostly a secret offshoot of the Zambezi river absorbing the Zambezi flood waters to drink vast herds of game on it’s extensive banks. The river is famous for delivering the best elephant and game viewing from a boat - in the world. Your cruise across to the secluded Ntwala Island Lodge will take you through the waterways into the main Zambezi River where this private island lodge will cater to your personal needs while offering you the famous Chobe experience.
Caprivi strip – Namibia…
Your light aircraft lifts off the island runway near Ntwala Island Lodge for a scenic transfer over the Zambezi flood plains and the Caprivi Strip of Namibia to offer a complete view of this flat land before landing near Susuwe Island Lodge, situated on the Kwando River.
Feel pampered in your room with a view which includes a personal plunge pool, world-class hospitality in remote Africa and exciting game viewing in the Bwabwata Game Reserve.
Kwando/ Linyanti river system- Botswana…
Here you have the choice of Lagoon or Lebala luxury tented camps where the emphasis is on “intimate camps in private areas with personal service – vintage Africa”. Both these camps concentrate on the game experience with our guide and trackers taking you out on safari both off road and at night. This area is famous of its high concentrations of elephant, buffalo and predators.
Okavango Delta – Botswana…
Okavango Delta
The light aircraft pops out of the sky, on time as always, for the 30-minute transfer to Kwara camp in the heart of the permanent water of the Okavango Delta – the most distinctive inland Delta in the world fed by the Okavango River. Kwara’s 8 luxury tents set under a canopy of large shady trees offer the ideal starting point for Mokoro trips into the Delta as well as power boat rides right into the heart of Moremi Game Reserve’s Godikwe Lagoon system – famous for the breeding colonies of water birds. Kwara also offers game drives with guides and trackers both off road and at night.
The boat will slice through the clandestine and tortuous channels of the Delta and deliver you to a wonderful peninsula in the Xakanaxa Lagoon where the renowned Xakanaxa Camp is sited. Right in the heart of the world famous Moremi Game Reserve the camp offers the full range of water based activities as well as excellent guided game drives famous for its predators and general game. The special brand of hospitality and personal touches for which the camp is celebrated will ensure that you leave feeling that longer would have been better.
Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR)
Tau Pan Camp is situated inside this world famous Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR) right on the edge of the beautiful Tau Pan. After the summer rains –the CKGR completely transforms as the blue sky fills with huge clouds, and the plains and pans burst with sweet grasses.
This is one of the best game viewing areas in Botswana at this time of year and not many people to seem to aware of this – so the visitors are few. The CKGR gets the migratory animals such springbok, zebra and wildebeest in their thousands and is quite a sight to behold. Predators abound with plentiful Lions – especially the famous Kalahari black-maned Lion, Cheetah, Leopard and Jackals. Brown Hyenas and Wild Dogs are also found in the area.
Several species of antelopes make the trip to the sweet grasses of the CKGR which include the Eland, Springbok, Steenbok, Gemsbok, Hartebeest, Kudu and Duiker. Honey Badgers are regular visitors as well as Ground Squirrels and many an hour can be wiled away watching these fascinating animals. The dry season (May-September) is also a wonderful time to visit the CKGR as the animals congregate close to any surface water and pans.
CKGR Specialties:
•Amazing visual display of cloud formations and lightning storms during the summer rains
• Breathtaking night skies
• Access to beautiful Tau Pan and world famous Deception Valley
• Fascinating reptiles and insects
Nxai Pan National Park
Nxai Pan National Park lies just north of the Maun-Nata road and adjoins Makgadikgadi Pans National Park on its northern border. Nxai Pan was originally state land and an area of 1676 sq. km was declared a game reserve in 1970, and then in 1992 the boundaries were extended to include Baines Baobabs to give the present total area of 2578 sq km and National Park Status was granted. The Nxai Pans were once part of the great lake that covered central Botswana – which included The Okavango Delta, Makgadikgadi and Lake Ngami to name a few. The Pan itself is another fossil lakebed about 40 sq km in size. The landscape is largely covered by grassland and dotted with clusters of umbrella acacia tree’s and mopane woodland in the north. During the rains from November to April – the pans become covered in grass which is a landscape very similar to the Kalahari.
Nxai Pan has also achieved fame from the IMAX movie “Roar” – where Tim Liversedge and National Geographic filmed this epic documentary that showcases a battle between an aging lion and a young challenger, who wants the older lion's wives and the water hole. Nxai pan is well known for its huge springbok population and once the rains have started, gemsbok, elephant and zebras migrate to the region. At this time zebra’s come in their thousands to drop their young at Nxai Pan.. These large herds of zebras, springbok, and wildebeest attract many predators – lion, cheetah, jackal and both spotted and the elusive brown hyena, as well as the endangered wild dog and the secretive leopard. There are large numbers of bat-eared fox and raptors that prey on the rodents and reptiles. At times, Rhino’s have also been sighted. Also to be seen are the eland, greater kudu and red hartebeest. Once the rains have started – the bird life is excellent.
Kwando SafarisKWARA CAMP - Kwara Concession - Permanent Okavango Delta | |
Kwara Camp is located in the heart of a large concession of 1750 sq km on the northern boundary of the world famous Moremi Game Reserve On a large island hidden under massive trees are eight specially designed safari tents on teak decks. Each tent with its en suite facilities has a view over the floodplains of the Delta. The guest areas consist of lounge, bar, dining area, small gift shop and plunge pool. The attraction of Kwara is its range of activities in an area of intricate channels, rivers, lagoons, dramatic palm-fringed islands, reed beds, floating grasses and papyrus that form a natural wilderness like no other Year round powerboat trips due to the presence of permanent water. Mokoro excursions for which the Okavango Delta is famous are also a year round activity. Water experiences combined with the ability to drive both off-road and at night add to the uniqueness of Kwara. Experience the peace and tranquillity of gliding silently through the Delta waters in the early morning and feel the pulse and excitement of a lion hunt at night. Whilst on an island walk with an armed guide you will learn about their deep beliefs and knowledge of the intricacies of nature. The birds of the Delta are both colourful and melodious and the guides will reveal them to you from close range. Godikwe Lagoon is one of the largest bird breeding colonies in Botswana. From September to December thousands of birds and their young may be viewed in their nesting grounds from Kwara’s double decker pontoon boat. Fishing for bream, catfish and pike is excellent. The staff at Kwara Camp subscribe to Kwando Safaris' core values of delivering a personal service in an intimate camp within a stunning private concession area offering a host of activities. KWANDO LEBALA CAMP - big game Kwando Concession Lebala - in the Setswana language means wide-open spaces. Situated in the southern part the 232, 00 hectare private Kwando concession Lebala Camp is sited on a peninsula of land jutting into the Linyanti marshes that surround the camp. The Kwando River disperses into the marshes which is a permanent patchwork of reed beds, wetlands, palm covered islands and open plains. Recently renovated in May 2008 – Lebala has eight spacious tents that are built on raised teak decks designed to offer expansive views over the surrounding plains while affording guests privacy. The teak furniture created for us by Zimbabwean master craftsmen is elegant, comfortable and simple, leaving the tent looking spacious and tasteful. The clean simple lines created by the shade cloth, and variety of curtains, will complete the picture of privacy and space. The shade cloth walls allow you to view the sunrises and sunsets from the safety of your rooms whilst also viewing the elephant’s walk past your room in the light of the full moon. The tents have an entrance area with closets, a separate bedroom and a spacious bathroom with his and hers basin, classic Victoria ball and claw bathtub and a double outdoor shower for those who enjoy the night stars The thatched guest areas consist of a north facing lounge with large roof overhang, dining area, bar and plunge pool. Game viewing from the comfort of the camp itself has often proved a rewarding experience as the elephant herds move past the camp to their feeding and drinking places. The combination of the Linyanti marshes, seasonal flood plains, savannah and wooded Mopane scrub makes an ideal assortment of eco-systems for excellent game viewing. Species such as Lechwe, impala, kudu, zebra, blue wildebeest, hippo, giraffe, tsessebe, roan, sable, buffalo and elephant are regularly sighted. These species in turn attract ever-attendant predators including the endangered wild dog Game drives are in open vehicles that drive off road. Nighttime sightings of mammal behaviour are a highlight at Lebala with its high visibility plains. The nocturnal birds witness many of the dramas played out under cover of darkness in scenes straight from the script of a wildlife video. This is the reason that many wildlife filmmakers and photographers have spent time at Kwando. For those guests searching for a true wilderness experience the intimate design of the camp, combined with the private concession, personal service and a flexible approach Lebala is a must KWANDO LAGOON CAMP - big game Kwando Concession Located in the 232,000-hectare private Kwando concession that is fronted by more than 80 km of the Kwando River, which divides northwestern Botswana from the Caprivi Strip. Lagoon Camp lies on the shady banks of a permanent lagoon formed by the meandering Kwando River among tall and ancient Africa Ebony and Marula trees With only eight safari tents Lagoon Camp has the charm that only a small camp can possess. Each purpose designed tent comprises an entrance area, large bedroom with extra long three quarter beds, en suite reed enclosed facilities with his and hers basins, flush loo and outside shower. The tents overlook the water of the Lagoon Lagoon Camp is designed to have its own unique character and charm and is not part of a formula approach. The lounge, bar and dining area is under thatch and nearby there is a small plunge pool. Activities concentrate on open vehicle game drives and boat cruises on the river. Walks are on offer but at the guide’s discretion due to the concentrations of elephant. Lagoon Camp offers off road and night drives so essential for the real African experience. The purpose built camp boat floats noiselessly in the current of the Kwando River while you can spot game from the upper deck. Stop for a spot of fishing in the river or its numerous lagoons and catch the fighting tiger fish, bream, catfish and pike. The Kwando concession offers exclusive access to one of the most remote and unexplored wildlife strongholds left in Botswana.
The area incorporates part of the Linyanti wetlands, huge tracts of Mopane forest and vast open plains. This variety of natural habitat makes Kwando unique, drawing wildlife and bird life in abundance as herds of elephant and buffalo roam the plains adjoining the Kwando River, whilst lion, leopard, cheetah, wild dog and sable are frequently sighted. For the sixth consecutive year wild dogs have denned near Lagoon camp thus providing guests with excellent sightings TAU PAN CAMP
The first permanent camp to be built in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve is situated on an established sand ridge overlooking Tau Pan from which the camp takes its name. This raised location ensures stunning views of the both the permanent Tau Pan water hole and the endless Kalahari horizon. With due consideration to the fragility of the desert eco system, great care was taken to ensure that the camp’s footprint was minimal in every sense. The entire camp relies upon solar generated power reducing the need to use and transport diesel, while gas usage is hugely reduced through the installation of solar water heaters. Waste water is treated in an above ground plant and the treated and palatable water then piped to water hole for animals, therefore ensuring no cross contamination to the surrounding ground water and soils. Guests are accommodated in eight desert adapted rooms with thatched roves and insulated walls which maintain and a constant temperature during the extremes of the desert summers and winters. Each room has a seating/writing area, double basins, inside and outside shower and a separate toilet. Each room also has ceiling fan. Many an hour can be spent on your private balcony enjoying the vastness of the Kalahari. The main area consists of dining room with a communal dining table, a lounge and bar area, curio shop and a viewing deck. Adjoining the main deck is a swimming pool and loungers. The fireplace is set into the deck and there is no better place to be in the morning to watch the sunrise over the Kalahari. Activities whilst at Tau Pan include game drives around the immediate area and also day trips to wider regions of the Reserve such as Sunday Pan, Pipers Pan and Deception Valley. All our game drive activities consist of a guide and a tracker. Guests may also learn more about the natural environment and the adaptation of the local people to this arid world during the nature survival walks, when you are accompanied by a San tracker and a professional guide.
NXAI PAN NATIONAL PARK
Situated on a tiny tree island on the furthest western edge of the Nxai Pan, the camp consists if eight desert adapted rooms with thatch roofs and specially designed insulated walls, including a family room. The family room can accommodate a family of four in two separate twin rooms with shared bathroom. All the rooms have ceiling fans, outside showers and a private viewing deck - so you can relax in the afternoon and watch the herds of zebra and huge elephant bulls as they meander past your room to the camp’s water hole. The main area consists of a dining room, lounge area, curio shop, swimming pool and a large unobstructed viewing deck. With due consideration to the fragility of the desert eco system, great care was taken to ensure that the camp ’s footprint was minimal in every sense. The entire camp relies upon solar generated power reducing the need to use and transport diesel, while gas usage is hugely reduced through the installation of solar water heaters. Waste water is treated in an above ground plant and the treated and palatable water then piped to water hole for animals, therefore ensuring no cross contamination to the surrounding ground water and soils. Activities whilst at Nxai Pan include game drives around the immediate area and also day trips to wider regions of the Park including the famous Baines ’ Baobabs. All our game drive activities consist of a guide and a tracker. Guests may also learn more about the natural environment and the adaptation of the local people to this arid world during the nature survival walks, when you are accompanied by a San tracker and a professional guide
STANLEY SAFARI LODGE - The best of Victoria Falls from Zambia Each of the seven luxury cottages is individually designed and decorated with local materials. The accommodation ranges from double cottages, to the honeymoon suite –with both its own fireplace and plunge pool. The cottages have their own private garden and dining area. The open-sided design affords a unique view across the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park to the mighty Zambezi River and the Victoria Falls – one of the Seven Natural Wonders Of The World. The main house provides the setting for the French style cuisine; alternatively dine under the stars on the lawn or in the privacy of your own cottage, whilst enjoying the personal service of the Zambian staff, all with an in-depth knowledge of Livingstone and its environs. Spend your days enjoying the Victoria Falls area, or by the pool, spotting animals at the nearby watering hole. Evenings can be spent sampling wine from the cellar or unwinding by the hearth, with the matchless African skies providing an unforgettable backdrop. The Victoria Falls area boasts a wealth of activities to uit every taste. With Stanley Safari Lodge as your base, we are happy to book any of these activities, including: - daily safaris in Chobe National Park, Botswana (home of the world’s largest elephant population)
- rhino spotting in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
- elephant-back safaris
- visits to a real African village
- micro light or helicopter flights
- canoeing, fishing or sunset cruises on the mighty Zambezi
- rafting, bungee jumping, abseiling and jet boating for the more adventurous
Islands in AfricaNTWALA ISLAND LODGE |
|
Ntwala Island Lodge is a wonderfully secluded Chobe destination, situated
only 70 kilometres upriver from the Victoria Falls - where white sand
beaches and palm trees add to the romance. Intricate floating walkways,
surrounded by wild and powerful waterways, link an untouched Namibian
cluster of islands in the heart of the Mambova Rapids. Ntwala Island Lodge
comprises four ultra-luxury styled suites, each inclusive of a private
plunge pool and viewing deck; annex bath feature; indoor and outdoor shower; as well as a private sala extending enticingly out over the water. We ensure personalised service and culinary expertise as well as privately guided activities(big game, fishing and birding). Ntwala also offers exclusivity and intimacy within a complete holistic African experience. Meander between the multiple waterways with your personal guide and private boat, cruise the quiet backwaters or revel in an exclusive Chobe sunset cruise while viewing a plethora of game. Pursue the famed tigerfish
on fly with excitement and anticipation. SUSUWE ISLAND LODGE Susuwe Island Lodge offers visitors the opportunity to experience closely a wild and untouched island in Africa. Situated in north-eastern Namibia, our island is in the remote Kwando River - a permanent water source which nourishes delicate ecosystems and sustains varied game and birdlife. Relaxation, privacy and comfort are paramount here. Susuwe Island Lodge is built to incorporate the riverine forest - the main complex has lofty canopy viewing decks overlooking endless savannahs, glistening lily-studded wetlands and ancient Kalahari woodlands, as well as a firepit, spacious lounge and dining areas, curio shop and small reference library. Six spacious brick and thatch suites equipped with double bathroom, bedroom, lounge and wooden viewing deck each with private plunge pool offer our visitors the opportunity to merge unhurriedly with Africa's timeless evolution of hazy days and star-studded nights. Mosquito nets, overhead fans and hairdryers as well as generated electricity are provided. Game sightings in this cradle of rivers could include vast herds of roaming elephant and buffalo, lion, hippo, leopard, sable, roan, lechwe and puku. We offer game drives in open 4x4 vehicles in the Bwabwata National Park, as well as boat cruises on the Kwando River.
Xakanaxa CampXAKANAXA CAMP - Moremi Game Reserve - Permanent Okavango Delta |
|
Big lagoons and big game, a land and water experience in the Okavango Delta! Xakanaxa Camp is located in the heart of the Moremi Game Reserve, which rates as one of Africa’s most beautiful game reserves, offering sanctuary to abundant herds of elephant, sable, giraffe, tsessebe, lechwe, wildebeest, impala, waterbuck and large herds of buffalo. Lion, leopard, cheetah, wild dog and hyena complete the picture. Situated on the Xakanaxa Lagoon, where boat and mokoro (dug-out canoe) trips explore the sinuous channels and floodplains of the Delta, one of Africa’s greatest natural wonders. Towering riverine forests, open savannah, seasonal floodplains, permanent lagoons, rivers and the intricate channels of the Okavango Delta surround the camp and make for a varied habitat that ensures the safari traveller the opportunity to experience year – round boating and mokoro trips as well as extensive game drives. Birding is quite spectacular, as huge numbers of breeding storks and herons are attracted to the world-famous heronries which lie to the north of the lodge. Xakanaxa Camp accommodates 24 guests in twelve classic safari tents on raised platforms on the water’s edge, each with a private viewing deck overlooking the Xakanaxa Lagoon. Each tent is tastefully furnished with twin or double beds, en-suite facilities with hot shower, hand basin and w.c, fans, battery charged reading lights, safes, plug points, dressing table and comfortable deck chairs. With its eclectic mix of furnishings from all over Africa, the camp has a dining room, lounge/bar area, fire deck and plunge pool all slightly raised on wooden platforms with spectacular views over the lagoon. At night the camp looks stunning as it is lit by dozens of paraffin lamps and candles.
What makes Xakanaxa Camp special to its many return guests is its long history as a family run business, its traditional and authentic tented safari lodge feel, the attention to detail, great wholesome food, its personalised and consistent service of staff who have been at the lodge for up to 2 decades, its views over the Delta and its reputation as one of the first lodges in the Okavango Delta- one of the worlds most pristine wildlife areas!
Camps summary tableCamps | Rooms | Pool | Game drive | Boat
Cruise | Mokoro
Trips | Walks | Fishing | Country | Stanley Safari Lodge | 10 | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | Zambia | Ntwala Island Lodge | 4 | Y | N | Y | N | Y | Y | Namibia | Susuwe | 6 | 6Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | Namibia | Lagoon | 8 | Y | Y | Y | N | Seasonal | Y not in Jan or Feb* | Botswana | Lebala | 8 | Y | Y | N | N | Seasonal | N | Botswana | Kwara | 8 | Y | Y | Y | Y | Seasonal | Y not in Jan or Feb* | Botswana | Xakanaxa | 12 | Y | Y | Y | Y | N | N | Botswana | Nxai Pan | 8 | Y | Y | N | N | Y | N | Botswana | Tau Pan | 8 | Y | Y | N | N | Y | N | Botswana | | * In terms of a new regulation recently introduced no fishing is allowed during Jan and Feb |
|
The big ideaThe best ideas are always the most simple. Simply stated, the idea of the 5 Rivers Safari originated with 4 companies who have common core beliefs about wildlife and conservation in Africa. Not only do each of the 5 Rivers partners have an excellent reputation for service excellence and attention to detail in their respective areas, but own and operate properties which in combination with each other are guaranteed to offer the very best safari experience in these niche regions of Southern Africa. In essence, 1+1=3 for your clients Visitors to Southern Africa aim to do 3 things on average: - Visit Cape Town and surrounds
- Visit the Victoria Falls
- Undertake a safari
Combinations of these camps in unique itineraries is not possible in any other way, so you have the inherit efficiencies of dealing with a “big company” without the blandness and uniformity of recipe that big companies bring to a safari experience. So book with any of the 4 companies any itinerary and they take care of the details – just like a big company would. However achieve the world class experience that only small owner operated camps and lodges can offer. The concept started with the concept that Cape Town is the big driver of tourism into Southern Africa and is a summer market (October to April). The 5 rivers area on the other hand is counter cyclic to this main market with us being busiest in the July to October period. The South African safari lodges are busiest in the rainy season due to Cape Town driving the market. Consequently their highest prices are levied when the safari experience is at it’s lowest. While the 5 rivers area is also a summer rainfall season, we are part of the Kalahari Desert, with mean annual rainfall from 375mm in the Kalahari ecosystem area and up to 475mm in the Caprivi Strip and Chobe areas. On the other hand the game rich areas of South Africa receive an average of 650 –675 mm of rain. So we offer a quality safari experience at a fraction of the price of South Africa for the December to March period. So the big idea is simply illustrated as follows: - Visit Cape Town
- Do a 5 rivers safari
That then deals with the perfect Southern African itinerary as the 5 rivers safari offers the following potential: - The Victoria Falls from Zambia
- The world renowned Chobe elephant experience from a boat
- The Caprivi Strip
- The Kwando Linyanti system
- The Okavango Delta
- The Kalahari Desert in summer
- Nxai Pan National Park
Where else can you get all this? |
Western Zambia…
The Zambezi River, the biggest in Southern Africa, forms a drainage system that controls the future and fate of the other four rivers and their ecosystems. When the upper Zambezi thunders over the awe inspiring wall of basalt into the chasm below, then you will understand why you and the millions before you have journeyed to this place in Africa.
Livingstone, known as the Adventure Capital of Africa will allow you access to the incredible array of adventures Victoria Falls has to offer beyond the majesty of the Falls themselves; river rafting, bungi jumping, elephant back safaris, canoeing, river boarding, golf, sedate river cruising, fishing, flight of Angels over the Falls and so much more. In addition to the vast activity choices available, the Stanley Safari Lodge experience allows one the additional opportunity of exploring the rich cultural heritage of the area.
Chobe region – Namibia …
Proceeding upstream through Livingstone, a town frozen in the 1950’s, and through the red Kalahari dunes that are sheltered in teak forests to the Kazungula ferry at the junction of Namibia, Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Once across into Botswana, a short commute will see you into the village of Kasane on the banks of the famous Chobe River. Renowned for being where Richard Burton was inspired to propose to Elizabeth Taylor for the second time and for offering the best boat based game experience in Africa.
The Chobe River is in fact mostly a secret offshoot of the Zambezi river absorbing the Zambezi flood waters to drink vast herds of game on it’s extensive banks. The river is famous for delivering the best elephant and game viewing from a boat - in the world. Your cruise across to the secluded Ntwala Island Lodge will take you through the waterways into the main Zambezi River where this private island lodge will cater to your personal needs while offering you the famous Chobe experience.
Caprivi strip – Namibia…
Your light aircraft lifts off the island runway near Ntwala Island Lodge for a scenic transfer over the Zambezi flood plains and the Caprivi Strip of Namibia to offer a complete view of this flat land before landing near Susuwe Island Lodge, situated on the Kwando River.
Feel pampered in your room with a view which includes a personal plunge pool, world-class hospitality in remote Africa and exciting game viewing in the Bwabwata Game Reserve.
Kwando/ Linyanti river system- Botswana…
Here you have the choice of Lagoon or Lebala luxury tented camps where the emphasis is on “intimate camps in private areas with personal service – vintage Africa”. Both these camps concentrate on the game experience with our guide and trackers taking you out on safari both off road and at night. This area is famous of its high concentrations of elephant, buffalo and predators.
Okavango Delta – Botswana…
Okavango Delta
The light aircraft pops out of the sky, on time as always, for the 30-minute transfer to Kwara camp in the heart of the permanent water of the Okavango Delta – the most distinctive inland Delta in the world fed by the Okavango River. Kwara’s 8 luxury tents set under a canopy of large shady trees offer the ideal starting point for Mokoro trips into the Delta as well as power boat rides right into the heart of Moremi Game Reserve’s Godikwe Lagoon system – famous for the breeding colonies of water birds. Kwara also offers game drives with guides and trackers both off road and at night.
The boat will slice through the clandestine and tortuous channels of the Delta and deliver you to a wonderful peninsula in the Xakanaxa Lagoon where the renowned Xakanaxa Camp is sited. Right in the heart of the world famous Moremi Game Reserve the camp offers the full range of water based activities as well as excellent guided game drives famous for its predators and general game. The special brand of hospitality and personal touches for which the camp is celebrated will ensure that you leave feeling that longer would have been better.
Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR)
Tau Pan Camp is situated inside this world famous Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR) right on the edge of the beautiful Tau Pan. After the summer rains –the CKGR completely transforms as the blue sky fills with huge clouds, and the plains and pans burst with sweet grasses.
This is one of the best game viewing areas in Botswana at this time of year and not many people to seem to aware of this – so the visitors are few. The CKGR gets the migratory animals such springbok, zebra and wildebeest in their thousands and is quite a sight to behold. Predators abound with plentiful Lions – especially the famous Kalahari black-maned Lion, Cheetah, Leopard and Jackals. Brown Hyenas and Wild Dogs are also found in the area.
Several species of antelopes make the trip to the sweet grasses of the CKGR which include the Eland, Springbok, Steenbok, Gemsbok, Hartebeest, Kudu and Duiker. Honey Badgers are regular visitors as well as Ground Squirrels and many an hour can be wiled away watching these fascinating animals. The dry season (May-September) is also a wonderful time to visit the CKGR as the animals congregate close to any surface water and pans.
CKGR Specialties:
•Amazing visual display of cloud formations and lightning storms during the summer rains
• Breathtaking night skies
• Access to beautiful Tau Pan and world famous Deception Valley
• Fascinating reptiles and insects
Nxai Pan National Park
Nxai Pan National Park lies just north of the Maun-Nata road and adjoins Makgadikgadi Pans National Park on its northern border. Nxai Pan was originally state land and an area of 1676 sq. km was declared a game reserve in 1970, and then in 1992 the boundaries were extended to include Baines Baobabs to give the present total area of 2578 sq km and National Park Status was granted. The Nxai Pans were once part of the great lake that covered central Botswana – which included The Okavango Delta, Makgadikgadi and Lake Ngami to name a few. The Pan itself is another fossil lakebed about 40 sq km in size. The landscape is largely covered by grassland and dotted with clusters of umbrella acacia tree’s and mopane woodland in the north. During the rains from November to April – the pans become covered in grass which is a landscape very similar to the Kalahari.
Nxai Pan has also achieved fame from the IMAX movie “Roar” – where Tim Liversedge and National Geographic filmed this epic documentary that showcases a battle between an aging lion and a young challenger, who wants the older lion's wives and the water hole. Nxai pan is well known for its huge springbok population and once the rains have started, gemsbok, elephant and zebras migrate to the region. At this time zebra’s come in their thousands to drop their young at Nxai Pan.. These large herds of zebras, springbok, and wildebeest attract many predators – lion, cheetah, jackal and both spotted and the elusive brown hyena, as well as the endangered wild dog and the secretive leopard. There are large numbers of bat-eared fox and raptors that prey on the rodents and reptiles. At times, Rhino’s have also been sighted. Also to be seen are the eland, greater kudu and red hartebeest. Once the rains have started – the bird life is excellent.
Kwando SafarisKWARA CAMP - Kwara Concession - Permanent Okavango Delta | |
Kwara Camp is located in the heart of a large concession of 1750 sq km on the northern boundary of the world famous Moremi Game Reserve On a large island hidden under massive trees are eight specially designed safari tents on teak decks. Each tent with its en suite facilities has a view over the floodplains of the Delta. The guest areas consist of lounge, bar, dining area, small gift shop and plunge pool. The attraction of Kwara is its range of activities in an area of intricate channels, rivers, lagoons, dramatic palm-fringed islands, reed beds, floating grasses and papyrus that form a natural wilderness like no other Year round powerboat trips due to the presence of permanent water. Mokoro excursions for which the Okavango Delta is famous are also a year round activity. Water experiences combined with the ability to drive both off-road and at night add to the uniqueness of Kwara. Experience the peace and tranquillity of gliding silently through the Delta waters in the early morning and feel the pulse and excitement of a lion hunt at night. Whilst on an island walk with an armed guide you will learn about their deep beliefs and knowledge of the intricacies of nature. The birds of the Delta are both colourful and melodious and the guides will reveal them to you from close range. Godikwe Lagoon is one of the largest bird breeding colonies in Botswana. From September to December thousands of birds and their young may be viewed in their nesting grounds from Kwara’s double decker pontoon boat. Fishing for bream, catfish and pike is excellent. The staff at Kwara Camp subscribe to Kwando Safaris' core values of delivering a personal service in an intimate camp within a stunning private concession area offering a host of activities. KWANDO LEBALA CAMP - big game Kwando Concession Lebala - in the Setswana language means wide-open spaces. Situated in the southern part the 232, 00 hectare private Kwando concession Lebala Camp is sited on a peninsula of land jutting into the Linyanti marshes that surround the camp. The Kwando River disperses into the marshes which is a permanent patchwork of reed beds, wetlands, palm covered islands and open plains. Recently renovated in May 2008 – Lebala has eight spacious tents that are built on raised teak decks designed to offer expansive views over the surrounding plains while affording guests privacy. The teak furniture created for us by Zimbabwean master craftsmen is elegant, comfortable and simple, leaving the tent looking spacious and tasteful. The clean simple lines created by the shade cloth, and variety of curtains, will complete the picture of privacy and space. The shade cloth walls allow you to view the sunrises and sunsets from the safety of your rooms whilst also viewing the elephant’s walk past your room in the light of the full moon. The tents have an entrance area with closets, a separate bedroom and a spacious bathroom with his and hers basin, classic Victoria ball and claw bathtub and a double outdoor shower for those who enjoy the night stars The thatched guest areas consist of a north facing lounge with large roof overhang, dining area, bar and plunge pool. Game viewing from the comfort of the camp itself has often proved a rewarding experience as the elephant herds move past the camp to their feeding and drinking places. The combination of the Linyanti marshes, seasonal flood plains, savannah and wooded Mopane scrub makes an ideal assortment of eco-systems for excellent game viewing. Species such as Lechwe, impala, kudu, zebra, blue wildebeest, hippo, giraffe, tsessebe, roan, sable, buffalo and elephant are regularly sighted. These species in turn attract ever-attendant predators including the endangered wild dog Game drives are in open vehicles that drive off road. Nighttime sightings of mammal behaviour are a highlight at Lebala with its high visibility plains. The nocturnal birds witness many of the dramas played out under cover of darkness in scenes straight from the script of a wildlife video. This is the reason that many wildlife filmmakers and photographers have spent time at Kwando. For those guests searching for a true wilderness experience the intimate design of the camp, combined with the private concession, personal service and a flexible approach Lebala is a must KWANDO LAGOON CAMP - big game Kwando Concession Located in the 232,000-hectare private Kwando concession that is fronted by more than 80 km of the Kwando River, which divides northwestern Botswana from the Caprivi Strip. Lagoon Camp lies on the shady banks of a permanent lagoon formed by the meandering Kwando River among tall and ancient Africa Ebony and Marula trees With only eight safari tents Lagoon Camp has the charm that only a small camp can possess. Each purpose designed tent comprises an entrance area, large bedroom with extra long three quarter beds, en suite reed enclosed facilities with his and hers basins, flush loo and outside shower. The tents overlook the water of the Lagoon Lagoon Camp is designed to have its own unique character and charm and is not part of a formula approach. The lounge, bar and dining area is under thatch and nearby there is a small plunge pool. Activities concentrate on open vehicle game drives and boat cruises on the river. Walks are on offer but at the guide’s discretion due to the concentrations of elephant. Lagoon Camp offers off road and night drives so essential for the real African experience. The purpose built camp boat floats noiselessly in the current of the Kwando River while you can spot game from the upper deck. Stop for a spot of fishing in the river or its numerous lagoons and catch the fighting tiger fish, bream, catfish and pike. The Kwando concession offers exclusive access to one of the most remote and unexplored wildlife strongholds left in Botswana.
The area incorporates part of the Linyanti wetlands, huge tracts of Mopane forest and vast open plains. This variety of natural habitat makes Kwando unique, drawing wildlife and bird life in abundance as herds of elephant and buffalo roam the plains adjoining the Kwando River, whilst lion, leopard, cheetah, wild dog and sable are frequently sighted. For the sixth consecutive year wild dogs have denned near Lagoon camp thus providing guests with excellent sightings TAU PAN CAMP
The first permanent camp to be built in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve is situated on an established sand ridge overlooking Tau Pan from which the camp takes its name. This raised location ensures stunning views of the both the permanent Tau Pan water hole and the endless Kalahari horizon. With due consideration to the fragility of the desert eco system, great care was taken to ensure that the camp’s footprint was minimal in every sense. The entire camp relies upon solar generated power reducing the need to use and transport diesel, while gas usage is hugely reduced through the installation of solar water heaters. Waste water is treated in an above ground plant and the treated and palatable water then piped to water hole for animals, therefore ensuring no cross contamination to the surrounding ground water and soils. Guests are accommodated in eight desert adapted rooms with thatched roves and insulated walls which maintain and a constant temperature during the extremes of the desert summers and winters. Each room has a seating/writing area, double basins, inside and outside shower and a separate toilet. Each room also has ceiling fan. Many an hour can be spent on your private balcony enjoying the vastness of the Kalahari. The main area consists of dining room with a communal dining table, a lounge and bar area, curio shop and a viewing deck. Adjoining the main deck is a swimming pool and loungers. The fireplace is set into the deck and there is no better place to be in the morning to watch the sunrise over the Kalahari. Activities whilst at Tau Pan include game drives around the immediate area and also day trips to wider regions of the Reserve such as Sunday Pan, Pipers Pan and Deception Valley. All our game drive activities consist of a guide and a tracker. Guests may also learn more about the natural environment and the adaptation of the local people to this arid world during the nature survival walks, when you are accompanied by a San tracker and a professional guide.
NXAI PAN NATIONAL PARK
Situated on a tiny tree island on the furthest western edge of the Nxai Pan, the camp consists if eight desert adapted rooms with thatch roofs and specially designed insulated walls, including a family room. The family room can accommodate a family of four in two separate twin rooms with shared bathroom. All the rooms have ceiling fans, outside showers and a private viewing deck - so you can relax in the afternoon and watch the herds of zebra and huge elephant bulls as they meander past your room to the camp’s water hole. The main area consists of a dining room, lounge area, curio shop, swimming pool and a large unobstructed viewing deck. With due consideration to the fragility of the desert eco system, great care was taken to ensure that the camp ’s footprint was minimal in every sense. The entire camp relies upon solar generated power reducing the need to use and transport diesel, while gas usage is hugely reduced through the installation of solar water heaters. Waste water is treated in an above ground plant and the treated and palatable water then piped to water hole for animals, therefore ensuring no cross contamination to the surrounding ground water and soils. Activities whilst at Nxai Pan include game drives around the immediate area and also day trips to wider regions of the Park including the famous Baines ’ Baobabs. All our game drive activities consist of a guide and a tracker. Guests may also learn more about the natural environment and the adaptation of the local people to this arid world during the nature survival walks, when you are accompanied by a San tracker and a professional guide
STANLEY SAFARI LODGE - The best of Victoria Falls from Zambia Each of the seven luxury cottages is individually designed and decorated with local materials. The accommodation ranges from double cottages, to the honeymoon suite –with both its own fireplace and plunge pool. The cottages have their own private garden and dining area. The open-sided design affords a unique view across the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park to the mighty Zambezi River and the Victoria Falls – one of the Seven Natural Wonders Of The World. The main house provides the setting for the French style cuisine; alternatively dine under the stars on the lawn or in the privacy of your own cottage, whilst enjoying the personal service of the Zambian staff, all with an in-depth knowledge of Livingstone and its environs. Spend your days enjoying the Victoria Falls area, or by the pool, spotting animals at the nearby watering hole. Evenings can be spent sampling wine from the cellar or unwinding by the hearth, with the matchless African skies providing an unforgettable backdrop. The Victoria Falls area boasts a wealth of activities to uit every taste. With Stanley Safari Lodge as your base, we are happy to book any of these activities, including: - daily safaris in Chobe National Park, Botswana (home of the world’s largest elephant population)
- rhino spotting in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
- elephant-back safaris
- visits to a real African village
- micro light or helicopter flights
- canoeing, fishing or sunset cruises on the mighty Zambezi
- rafting, bungee jumping, abseiling and jet boating for the more adventurous
Islands in AfricaNTWALA ISLAND LODGE |
|
Ntwala Island Lodge is a wonderfully secluded Chobe destination, situated
only 70 kilometres upriver from the Victoria Falls - where white sand
beaches and palm trees add to the romance. Intricate floating walkways,
surrounded by wild and powerful waterways, link an untouched Namibian
cluster of islands in the heart of the Mambova Rapids. Ntwala Island Lodge
comprises four ultra-luxury styled suites, each inclusive of a private
plunge pool and viewing deck; annex bath feature; indoor and outdoor shower; as well as a private sala extending enticingly out over the water. We ensure personalised service and culinary expertise as well as privately guided activities(big game, fishing and birding). Ntwala also offers exclusivity and intimacy within a complete holistic African experience. Meander between the multiple waterways with your personal guide and private boat, cruise the quiet backwaters or revel in an exclusive Chobe sunset cruise while viewing a plethora of game. Pursue the famed tigerfish
on fly with excitement and anticipation. SUSUWE ISLAND LODGE Susuwe Island Lodge offers visitors the opportunity to experience closely a wild and untouched island in Africa. Situated in north-eastern Namibia, our island is in the remote Kwando River - a permanent water source which nourishes delicate ecosystems and sustains varied game and birdlife. Relaxation, privacy and comfort are paramount here. Susuwe Island Lodge is built to incorporate the riverine forest - the main complex has lofty canopy viewing decks overlooking endless savannahs, glistening lily-studded wetlands and ancient Kalahari woodlands, as well as a firepit, spacious lounge and dining areas, curio shop and small reference library. Six spacious brick and thatch suites equipped with double bathroom, bedroom, lounge and wooden viewing deck each with private plunge pool offer our visitors the opportunity to merge unhurriedly with Africa's timeless evolution of hazy days and star-studded nights. Mosquito nets, overhead fans and hairdryers as well as generated electricity are provided. Game sightings in this cradle of rivers could include vast herds of roaming elephant and buffalo, lion, hippo, leopard, sable, roan, lechwe and puku. We offer game drives in open 4x4 vehicles in the Bwabwata National Park, as well as boat cruises on the Kwando River.
Xakanaxa CampXAKANAXA CAMP - Moremi Game Reserve - Permanent Okavango Delta |
|
Big lagoons and big game, a land and water experience in the Okavango Delta! Xakanaxa Camp is located in the heart of the Moremi Game Reserve, which rates as one of Africa’s most beautiful game reserves, offering sanctuary to abundant herds of elephant, sable, giraffe, tsessebe, lechwe, wildebeest, impala, waterbuck and large herds of buffalo. Lion, leopard, cheetah, wild dog and hyena complete the picture. Situated on the Xakanaxa Lagoon, where boat and mokoro (dug-out canoe) trips explore the sinuous channels and floodplains of the Delta, one of Africa’s greatest natural wonders. Towering riverine forests, open savannah, seasonal floodplains, permanent lagoons, rivers and the intricate channels of the Okavango Delta surround the camp and make for a varied habitat that ensures the safari traveller the opportunity to experience year – round boating and mokoro trips as well as extensive game drives. Birding is quite spectacular, as huge numbers of breeding storks and herons are attracted to the world-famous heronries which lie to the north of the lodge. Xakanaxa Camp accommodates 24 guests in twelve classic safari tents on raised platforms on the water’s edge, each with a private viewing deck overlooking the Xakanaxa Lagoon. Each tent is tastefully furnished with twin or double beds, en-suite facilities with hot shower, hand basin and w.c, fans, battery charged reading lights, safes, plug points, dressing table and comfortable deck chairs. With its eclectic mix of furnishings from all over Africa, the camp has a dining room, lounge/bar area, fire deck and plunge pool all slightly raised on wooden platforms with spectacular views over the lagoon. At night the camp looks stunning as it is lit by dozens of paraffin lamps and candles.
What makes Xakanaxa Camp special to its many return guests is its long history as a family run business, its traditional and authentic tented safari lodge feel, the attention to detail, great wholesome food, its personalised and consistent service of staff who have been at the lodge for up to 2 decades, its views over the Delta and its reputation as one of the first lodges in the Okavango Delta- one of the worlds most pristine wildlife areas!
Camps summary tableCamps | Rooms | Pool | Game drive | Boat
Cruise | Mokoro
Trips | Walks | Fishing | Country | Stanley Safari Lodge | 10 | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | Zambia | Ntwala Island Lodge | 4 | Y | N | Y | N | Y | Y | Namibia | Susuwe | 6 | 6Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | Namibia | Lagoon | 8 | Y | Y | Y | N | Seasonal | Y not in Jan or Feb* | Botswana | Lebala | 8 | Y | Y | N | N | Seasonal | N | Botswana | Kwara | 8 | Y | Y | Y | Y | Seasonal | Y not in Jan or Feb* | Botswana | Xakanaxa | 12 | Y | Y | Y | Y | N | N | Botswana | Nxai Pan | 8 | Y | Y | N | N | Y | N | Botswana | Tau Pan | 8 | Y | Y | N | N | Y | N | Botswana | | * In terms of a new regulation recently introduced no fishing is allowed during Jan and Feb |
|
The big ideaThe best ideas are always the most simple. Simply stated, the idea of the 5 Rivers Safari originated with 4 companies who have common core beliefs about wildlife and conservation in Africa. Not only do each of the 5 Rivers partners have an excellent reputation for service excellence and attention to detail in their respective areas, but own and operate properties which in combination with each other are guaranteed to offer the very best safari experience in these niche regions of Southern Africa. In essence, 1+1=3 for your clients Visitors to Southern Africa aim to do 3 things on average: - Visit Cape Town and surrounds
- Visit the Victoria Falls
- Undertake a safari
Combinations of these camps in unique itineraries is not possible in any other way, so you have the inherit efficiencies of dealing with a “big company” without the blandness and uniformity of recipe that big companies bring to a safari experience. So book with any of the 4 companies any itinerary and they take care of the details – just like a big company would. However achieve the world class experience that only small owner operated camps and lodges can offer. The concept started with the concept that Cape Town is the big driver of tourism into Southern Africa and is a summer market (October to April). The 5 rivers area on the other hand is counter cyclic to this main market with us being busiest in the July to October period. The South African safari lodges are busiest in the rainy season due to Cape Town driving the market. Consequently their highest prices are levied when the safari experience is at it’s lowest. While the 5 rivers area is also a summer rainfall season, we are part of the Kalahari Desert, with mean annual rainfall from 375mm in the Kalahari ecosystem area and up to 475mm in the Caprivi Strip and Chobe areas. On the other hand the game rich areas of South Africa receive an average of 650 –675 mm of rain. So we offer a quality safari experience at a fraction of the price of South Africa for the December to March period. So the big idea is simply illustrated as follows: - Visit Cape Town
- Do a 5 rivers safari
That then deals with the perfect Southern African itinerary as the 5 rivers safari offers the following potential: - The Victoria Falls from Zambia
- The world renowned Chobe elephant experience from a boat
- The Caprivi Strip
- The Kwando Linyanti system
- The Okavango Delta
- The Kalahari Desert in summer
- Nxai Pan National Park
Where else can you get all this? |
Western Zambia…
The Zambezi River, the biggest in Southern Africa, forms a drainage system that controls the future and fate of the other four rivers and their ecosystems. When the upper Zambezi thunders over the awe inspiring wall of basalt into the chasm below, then you will understand why you and the millions before you have journeyed to this place in Africa.
Livingstone, known as the Adventure Capital of Africa will allow you access to the incredible array of adventures Victoria Falls has to offer beyond the majesty of the Falls themselves; river rafting, bungi jumping, elephant back safaris, canoeing, river boarding, golf, sedate river cruising, fishing, flight of Angels over the Falls and so much more. In addition to the vast activity choices available, the Stanley Safari Lodge experience allows one the additional opportunity of exploring the rich cultural heritage of the area.
Chobe region – Namibia …
Proceeding upstream through Livingstone, a town frozen in the 1950’s, and through the red Kalahari dunes that are sheltered in teak forests to the Kazungula ferry at the junction of Namibia, Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Once across into Botswana, a short commute will see you into the village of Kasane on the banks of the famous Chobe River. Renowned for being where Richard Burton was inspired to propose to Elizabeth Taylor for the second time and for offering the best boat based game experience in Africa.
The Chobe River is in fact mostly a secret offshoot of the Zambezi river absorbing the Zambezi flood waters to drink vast herds of game on it’s extensive banks. The river is famous for delivering the best elephant and game viewing from a boat - in the world. Your cruise across to the secluded Ntwala Island Lodge will take you through the waterways into the main Zambezi River where this private island lodge will cater to your personal needs while offering you the famous Chobe experience.
Caprivi strip – Namibia…
Your light aircraft lifts off the island runway near Ntwala Island Lodge for a scenic transfer over the Zambezi flood plains and the Caprivi Strip of Namibia to offer a complete view of this flat land before landing near Susuwe Island Lodge, situated on the Kwando River.
Feel pampered in your room with a view which includes a personal plunge pool, world-class hospitality in remote Africa and exciting game viewing in the Bwabwata Game Reserve.
Kwando/ Linyanti river system- Botswana…
Here you have the choice of Lagoon or Lebala luxury tented camps where the emphasis is on “intimate camps in private areas with personal service – vintage Africa”. Both these camps concentrate on the game experience with our guide and trackers taking you out on safari both off road and at night. This area is famous of its high concentrations of elephant, buffalo and predators.
Okavango Delta – Botswana…
Okavango Delta
The light aircraft pops out of the sky, on time as always, for the 30-minute transfer to Kwara camp in the heart of the permanent water of the Okavango Delta – the most distinctive inland Delta in the world fed by the Okavango River. Kwara’s 8 luxury tents set under a canopy of large shady trees offer the ideal starting point for Mokoro trips into the Delta as well as power boat rides right into the heart of Moremi Game Reserve’s Godikwe Lagoon system – famous for the breeding colonies of water birds. Kwara also offers game drives with guides and trackers both off road and at night.
The boat will slice through the clandestine and tortuous channels of the Delta and deliver you to a wonderful peninsula in the Xakanaxa Lagoon where the renowned Xakanaxa Camp is sited. Right in the heart of the world famous Moremi Game Reserve the camp offers the full range of water based activities as well as excellent guided game drives famous for its predators and general game. The special brand of hospitality and personal touches for which the camp is celebrated will ensure that you leave feeling that longer would have been better.
Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR)
Tau Pan Camp is situated inside this world famous Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR) right on the edge of the beautiful Tau Pan. After the summer rains –the CKGR completely transforms as the blue sky fills with huge clouds, and the plains and pans burst with sweet grasses.
This is one of the best game viewing areas in Botswana at this time of year and not many people to seem to aware of this – so the visitors are few. The CKGR gets the migratory animals such springbok, zebra and wildebeest in their thousands and is quite a sight to behold. Predators abound with plentiful Lions – especially the famous Kalahari black-maned Lion, Cheetah, Leopard and Jackals. Brown Hyenas and Wild Dogs are also found in the area.
Several species of antelopes make the trip to the sweet grasses of the CKGR which include the Eland, Springbok, Steenbok, Gemsbok, Hartebeest, Kudu and Duiker. Honey Badgers are regular visitors as well as Ground Squirrels and many an hour can be wiled away watching these fascinating animals. The dry season (May-September) is also a wonderful time to visit the CKGR as the animals congregate close to any surface water and pans.
CKGR Specialties:
•Amazing visual display of cloud formations and lightning storms during the summer rains
• Breathtaking night skies
• Access to beautiful Tau Pan and world famous Deception Valley
• Fascinating reptiles and insects
Nxai Pan National Park
Nxai Pan National Park lies just north of the Maun-Nata road and adjoins Makgadikgadi Pans National Park on its northern border. Nxai Pan was originally state land and an area of 1676 sq. km was declared a game reserve in 1970, and then in 1992 the boundaries were extended to include Baines Baobabs to give the present total area of 2578 sq km and National Park Status was granted. The Nxai Pans were once part of the great lake that covered central Botswana – which included The Okavango Delta, Makgadikgadi and Lake Ngami to name a few. The Pan itself is another fossil lakebed about 40 sq km in size. The landscape is largely covered by grassland and dotted with clusters of umbrella acacia tree’s and mopane woodland in the north. During the rains from November to April – the pans become covered in grass which is a landscape very similar to the Kalahari.
Nxai Pan has also achieved fame from the IMAX movie “Roar” – where Tim Liversedge and National Geographic filmed this epic documentary that showcases a battle between an aging lion and a young challenger, who wants the older lion's wives and the water hole. Nxai pan is well known for its huge springbok population and once the rains have started, gemsbok, elephant and zebras migrate to the region. At this time zebra’s come in their thousands to drop their young at Nxai Pan.. These large herds of zebras, springbok, and wildebeest attract many predators – lion, cheetah, jackal and both spotted and the elusive brown hyena, as well as the endangered wild dog and the secretive leopard. There are large numbers of bat-eared fox and raptors that prey on the rodents and reptiles. At times, Rhino’s have also been sighted. Also to be seen are the eland, greater kudu and red hartebeest. Once the rains have started – the bird life is excellent.
Kwando SafarisKWARA CAMP - Kwara Concession - Permanent Okavango Delta | |
Kwara Camp is located in the heart of a large concession of 1750 sq km on the northern boundary of the world famous Moremi Game Reserve On a large island hidden under massive trees are eight specially designed safari tents on teak decks. Each tent with its en suite facilities has a view over the floodplains of the Delta. The guest areas consist of lounge, bar, dining area, small gift shop and plunge pool. The attraction of Kwara is its range of activities in an area of intricate channels, rivers, lagoons, dramatic palm-fringed islands, reed beds, floating grasses and papyrus that form a natural wilderness like no other Year round powerboat trips due to the presence of permanent water. Mokoro excursions for which the Okavango Delta is famous are also a year round activity. Water experiences combined with the ability to drive both off-road and at night add to the uniqueness of Kwara. Experience the peace and tranquillity of gliding silently through the Delta waters in the early morning and feel the pulse and excitement of a lion hunt at night. Whilst on an island walk with an armed guide you will learn about their deep beliefs and knowledge of the intricacies of nature. The birds of the Delta are both colourful and melodious and the guides will reveal them to you from close range. Godikwe Lagoon is one of the largest bird breeding colonies in Botswana. From September to December thousands of birds and their young may be viewed in their nesting grounds from Kwara’s double decker pontoon boat. Fishing for bream, catfish and pike is excellent. The staff at Kwara Camp subscribe to Kwando Safaris' core values of delivering a personal service in an intimate camp within a stunning private concession area offering a host of activities. KWANDO LEBALA CAMP - big game Kwando Concession Lebala - in the Setswana language means wide-open spaces. Situated in the southern part the 232, 00 hectare private Kwando concession Lebala Camp is sited on a peninsula of land jutting into the Linyanti marshes that surround the camp. The Kwando River disperses into the marshes which is a permanent patchwork of reed beds, wetlands, palm covered islands and open plains. Recently renovated in May 2008 – Lebala has eight spacious tents that are built on raised teak decks designed to offer expansive views over the surrounding plains while affording guests privacy. The teak furniture created for us by Zimbabwean master craftsmen is elegant, comfortable and simple, leaving the tent looking spacious and tasteful. The clean simple lines created by the shade cloth, and variety of curtains, will complete the picture of privacy and space. The shade cloth walls allow you to view the sunrises and sunsets from the safety of your rooms whilst also viewing the elephant’s walk past your room in the light of the full moon. The tents have an entrance area with closets, a separate bedroom and a spacious bathroom with his and hers basin, classic Victoria ball and claw bathtub and a double outdoor shower for those who enjoy the night stars The thatched guest areas consist of a north facing lounge with large roof overhang, dining area, bar and plunge pool. Game viewing from the comfort of the camp itself has often proved a rewarding experience as the elephant herds move past the camp to their feeding and drinking places. The combination of the Linyanti marshes, seasonal flood plains, savannah and wooded Mopane scrub makes an ideal assortment of eco-systems for excellent game viewing. Species such as Lechwe, impala, kudu, zebra, blue wildebeest, hippo, giraffe, tsessebe, roan, sable, buffalo and elephant are regularly sighted. These species in turn attract ever-attendant predators including the endangered wild dog Game drives are in open vehicles that drive off road. Nighttime sightings of mammal behaviour are a highlight at Lebala with its high visibility plains. The nocturnal birds witness many of the dramas played out under cover of darkness in scenes straight from the script of a wildlife video. This is the reason that many wildlife filmmakers and photographers have spent time at Kwando. For those guests searching for a true wilderness experience the intimate design of the camp, combined with the private concession, personal service and a flexible approach Lebala is a must KWANDO LAGOON CAMP - big game Kwando Concession Located in the 232,000-hectare private Kwando concession that is fronted by more than 80 km of the Kwando River, which divides northwestern Botswana from the Caprivi Strip. Lagoon Camp lies on the shady banks of a permanent lagoon formed by the meandering Kwando River among tall and ancient Africa Ebony and Marula trees With only eight safari tents Lagoon Camp has the charm that only a small camp can possess. Each purpose designed tent comprises an entrance area, large bedroom with extra long three quarter beds, en suite reed enclosed facilities with his and hers basins, flush loo and outside shower. The tents overlook the water of the Lagoon Lagoon Camp is designed to have its own unique character and charm and is not part of a formula approach. The lounge, bar and dining area is under thatch and nearby there is a small plunge pool. Activities concentrate on open vehicle game drives and boat cruises on the river. Walks are on offer but at the guide’s discretion due to the concentrations of elephant. Lagoon Camp offers off road and night drives so essential for the real African experience. The purpose built camp boat floats noiselessly in the current of the Kwando River while you can spot game from the upper deck. Stop for a spot of fishing in the river or its numerous lagoons and catch the fighting tiger fish, bream, catfish and pike. The Kwando concession offers exclusive access to one of the most remote and unexplored wildlife strongholds left in Botswana.
The area incorporates part of the Linyanti wetlands, huge tracts of Mopane forest and vast open plains. This variety of natural habitat makes Kwando unique, drawing wildlife and bird life in abundance as herds of elephant and buffalo roam the plains adjoining the Kwando River, whilst lion, leopard, cheetah, wild dog and sable are frequently sighted. For the sixth consecutive year wild dogs have denned near Lagoon camp thus providing guests with excellent sightings TAU PAN CAMP
The first permanent camp to be built in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve is situated on an established sand ridge overlooking Tau Pan from which the camp takes its name. This raised location ensures stunning views of the both the permanent Tau Pan water hole and the endless Kalahari horizon. With due consideration to the fragility of the desert eco system, great care was taken to ensure that the camp’s footprint was minimal in every sense. The entire camp relies upon solar generated power reducing the need to use and transport diesel, while gas usage is hugely reduced through the installation of solar water heaters. Waste water is treated in an above ground plant and the treated and palatable water then piped to water hole for animals, therefore ensuring no cross contamination to the surrounding ground water and soils. Guests are accommodated in eight desert adapted rooms with thatched roves and insulated walls which maintain and a constant temperature during the extremes of the desert summers and winters. Each room has a seating/writing area, double basins, inside and outside shower and a separate toilet. Each room also has ceiling fan. Many an hour can be spent on your private balcony enjoying the vastness of the Kalahari. The main area consists of dining room with a communal dining table, a lounge and bar area, curio shop and a viewing deck. Adjoining the main deck is a swimming pool and loungers. The fireplace is set into the deck and there is no better place to be in the morning to watch the sunrise over the Kalahari. Activities whilst at Tau Pan include game drives around the immediate area and also day trips to wider regions of the Reserve such as Sunday Pan, Pipers Pan and Deception Valley. All our game drive activities consist of a guide and a tracker. Guests may also learn more about the natural environment and the adaptation of the local people to this arid world during the nature survival walks, when you are accompanied by a San tracker and a professional guide.
NXAI PAN NATIONAL PARK
Situated on a tiny tree island on the furthest western edge of the Nxai Pan, the camp consists if eight desert adapted rooms with thatch roofs and specially designed insulated walls, including a family room. The family room can accommodate a family of four in two separate twin rooms with shared bathroom. All the rooms have ceiling fans, outside showers and a private viewing deck - so you can relax in the afternoon and watch the herds of zebra and huge elephant bulls as they meander past your room to the camp’s water hole. The main area consists of a dining room, lounge area, curio shop, swimming pool and a large unobstructed viewing deck. With due consideration to the fragility of the desert eco system, great care was taken to ensure that the camp ’s footprint was minimal in every sense. The entire camp relies upon solar generated power reducing the need to use and transport diesel, while gas usage is hugely reduced through the installation of solar water heaters. Waste water is treated in an above ground plant and the treated and palatable water then piped to water hole for animals, therefore ensuring no cross contamination to the surrounding ground water and soils. Activities whilst at Nxai Pan include game drives around the immediate area and also day trips to wider regions of the Park including the famous Baines ’ Baobabs. All our game drive activities consist of a guide and a tracker. Guests may also learn more about the natural environment and the adaptation of the local people to this arid world during the nature survival walks, when you are accompanied by a San tracker and a professional guide
STANLEY SAFARI LODGE - The best of Victoria Falls from Zambia Each of the seven luxury cottages is individually designed and decorated with local materials. The accommodation ranges from double cottages, to the honeymoon suite –with both its own fireplace and plunge pool. The cottages have their own private garden and dining area. The open-sided design affords a unique view across the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park to the mighty Zambezi River and the Victoria Falls – one of the Seven Natural Wonders Of The World. The main house provides the setting for the French style cuisine; alternatively dine under the stars on the lawn or in the privacy of your own cottage, whilst enjoying the personal service of the Zambian staff, all with an in-depth knowledge of Livingstone and its environs. Spend your days enjoying the Victoria Falls area, or by the pool, spotting animals at the nearby watering hole. Evenings can be spent sampling wine from the cellar or unwinding by the hearth, with the matchless African skies providing an unforgettable backdrop. The Victoria Falls area boasts a wealth of activities to uit every taste. With Stanley Safari Lodge as your base, we are happy to book any of these activities, including: - daily safaris in Chobe National Park, Botswana (home of the world’s largest elephant population)
- rhino spotting in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
- elephant-back safaris
- visits to a real African village
- micro light or helicopter flights
- canoeing, fishing or sunset cruises on the mighty Zambezi
- rafting, bungee jumping, abseiling and jet boating for the more adventurous
Islands in AfricaNTWALA ISLAND LODGE |
|
Ntwala Island Lodge is a wonderfully secluded Chobe destination, situated
only 70 kilometres upriver from the Victoria Falls - where white sand
beaches and palm trees add to the romance. Intricate floating walkways,
surrounded by wild and powerful waterways, link an untouched Namibian
cluster of islands in the heart of the Mambova Rapids. Ntwala Island Lodge
comprises four ultra-luxury styled suites, each inclusive of a private
plunge pool and viewing deck; annex bath feature; indoor and outdoor shower; as well as a private sala extending enticingly out over the water. We ensure personalised service and culinary expertise as well as privately guided activities(big game, fishing and birding). Ntwala also offers exclusivity and intimacy within a complete holistic African experience. Meander between the multiple waterways with your personal guide and private boat, cruise the quiet backwaters or revel in an exclusive Chobe sunset cruise while viewing a plethora of game. Pursue the famed tigerfish
on fly with excitement and anticipation. SUSUWE ISLAND LODGE Susuwe Island Lodge offers visitors the opportunity to experience closely a wild and untouched island in Africa. Situated in north-eastern Namibia, our island is in the remote Kwando River - a permanent water source which nourishes delicate ecosystems and sustains varied game and birdlife. Relaxation, privacy and comfort are paramount here. Susuwe Island Lodge is built to incorporate the riverine forest - the main complex has lofty canopy viewing decks overlooking endless savannahs, glistening lily-studded wetlands and ancient Kalahari woodlands, as well as a firepit, spacious lounge and dining areas, curio shop and small reference library. Six spacious brick and thatch suites equipped with double bathroom, bedroom, lounge and wooden viewing deck each with private plunge pool offer our visitors the opportunity to merge unhurriedly with Africa's timeless evolution of hazy days and star-studded nights. Mosquito nets, overhead fans and hairdryers as well as generated electricity are provided. Game sightings in this cradle of rivers could include vast herds of roaming elephant and buffalo, lion, hippo, leopard, sable, roan, lechwe and puku. We offer game drives in open 4x4 vehicles in the Bwabwata National Park, as well as boat cruises on the Kwando River.
Xakanaxa CampXAKANAXA CAMP - Moremi Game Reserve - Permanent Okavango Delta |
|
Big lagoons and big game, a land and water experience in the Okavango Delta! Xakanaxa Camp is located in the heart of the Moremi Game Reserve, which rates as one of Africa’s most beautiful game reserves, offering sanctuary to abundant herds of elephant, sable, giraffe, tsessebe, lechwe, wildebeest, impala, waterbuck and large herds of buffalo. Lion, leopard, cheetah, wild dog and hyena complete the picture. Situated on the Xakanaxa Lagoon, where boat and mokoro (dug-out canoe) trips explore the sinuous channels and floodplains of the Delta, one of Africa’s greatest natural wonders. Towering riverine forests, open savannah, seasonal floodplains, permanent lagoons, rivers and the intricate channels of the Okavango Delta surround the camp and make for a varied habitat that ensures the safari traveller the opportunity to experience year – round boating and mokoro trips as well as extensive game drives. Birding is quite spectacular, as huge numbers of breeding storks and herons are attracted to the world-famous heronries which lie to the north of the lodge. Xakanaxa Camp accommodates 24 guests in twelve classic safari tents on raised platforms on the water’s edge, each with a private viewing deck overlooking the Xakanaxa Lagoon. Each tent is tastefully furnished with twin or double beds, en-suite facilities with hot shower, hand basin and w.c, fans, battery charged reading lights, safes, plug points, dressing table and comfortable deck chairs. With its eclectic mix of furnishings from all over Africa, the camp has a dining room, lounge/bar area, fire deck and plunge pool all slightly raised on wooden platforms with spectacular views over the lagoon. At night the camp looks stunning as it is lit by dozens of paraffin lamps and candles.
What makes Xakanaxa Camp special to its many return guests is its long history as a family run business, its traditional and authentic tented safari lodge feel, the attention to detail, great wholesome food, its personalised and consistent service of staff who have been at the lodge for up to 2 decades, its views over the Delta and its reputation as one of the first lodges in the Okavango Delta- one of the worlds most pristine wildlife areas!
Camps summary tableCamps | Rooms | Pool | Game drive | Boat
Cruise | Mokoro
Trips | Walks | Fishing | Country | Stanley Safari Lodge | 10 | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | Zambia | Ntwala Island Lodge | 4 | Y | N | Y | N | Y | Y | Namibia | Susuwe | 6 | 6Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | Namibia | Lagoon | 8 | Y | Y | Y | N | Seasonal | Y not in Jan or Feb* | Botswana | Lebala | 8 | Y | Y | N | N | Seasonal | N | Botswana | Kwara | 8 | Y | Y | Y | Y | Seasonal | Y not in Jan or Feb* | Botswana | Xakanaxa | 12 | Y | Y | Y | Y | N | N | Botswana | Nxai Pan | 8 | Y | Y | N | N | Y | N | Botswana | Tau Pan | 8 | Y | Y | N | N | Y | N | Botswana | | * In terms of a new regulation recently introduced no fishing is allowed during Jan and Feb |
|
|
|
|
|
|
