Botswana Safaris
Zannon James, one of our senior African travel experts, recently embarked on an exciting familiarisation trip to Botswana and Zimbabwe with our safari partner, Hideaways Africa, visiting 4 of their charming properties over 11 days.
ABOUT HIDEAWAYS AFRICA
Hideaways Africa was born out of a deep love for the continent, culminating in the opening of their first lodge, Elephant’s Eye Tented Camp, in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe. Their bespoke portfolio now spans across a variety of iconic safari destinations, including Botswana, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Their 16 lodges are renowned for offering affordable comfort, incredible attention to detail, and all the modern amenities one would need.
Now, back to Zannon and his adventurous trip…
ZANNON'S ADVENTURE WITH HIDEAWAYS
Day 1: Botswana & Maun – The Gateway to the Okavango
My adventure began with a departure from scenic Cape Town, followed by a two-hour flight to Maun, in Botswana. Known as the “Gateway to the Okavango,” Maun is a bustling town with dusty streets and vibrant markets, where many an African adventure begins!
The 2 hour overland journey to the Okavango Delta was a memorable one, and a testament to the sheer expanse and remoteness of this region. Vast, endless roads were dotted with plenty of wildlife, from meandering herds of elephants and zebras to even the remains of an elephant that our ranger noted had been taken down by a leopard the previous night! As we continued, the landscape gradually shifted, revealing an intricate network of waterways and lush vegetation that define the Delta – remarkable to see and is not often experienced on a flight.
The staff at Mogothlo Safari Lodge greeted us with a heartwarming song and dance, and the luxury tents provided a perfect blend of comfort and immersion into the wilderness. Once we were settled, we headed out for our first evening game drive in the Mogothlo concession. Duma, our experience guide, stood in charge; a fountain of knowledge about the intricacies of this corner of the Delta.
Soon after spotting a parade of elephants, Duma’s keen eyes spotted movement in the tall grass. With a gentle hand gesture, he signalled for silence. A pride of lions, their golden coats glinting in the fading light, lounged beneath a tree – exuding an aura of regal indifference. As sunset descended, we stopped for sundowner gin and tonics and marvelled at the majestic Botswana sky – feeling lucky to experience a full moon that lit up the entire landscape.
Days 2-3: Discovering the Mogothlo Concession, Botswana
Nestled along the Khwai River, our next two days in the Mogothlo Concession were filled with the perfect mix of wonder and relaxation. Our water-facing tented accommodation offered an intimate connection with the wild, such as with Charlie – the lodge’s resident hippo! After two days of great sightings, we relaxed back at camp to a symphony of bird calls and the distant roar of predators, providing an ever-present soundtrack to our days.
Day 4: Journey to Chobe—Camp Kazuma, Botswana
Our travel to Camp Kazuma in Botswana’s Chobe region involved a 40-minute scenic charter flight followed by an hour-long road transfer, leading us to our new home for the next three days. A hidden gem nestled in a totally unique landscape endemic to Chobe, the lodge was a perfect blend of wilderness and comfort, providing an ideal vantage point for observing the diverse wildlife at the nearby waterhole.
Days 5-6: The Splendours of Chobe, Botswana
In Chobe, each game drive was a new adventure. We witnessed majestic elephants dotted along the Chobe River, encountered prowling lions and marvelled at vibrant birdlife, including the stunning Lilac-breasted roller. Back at camp, Camp Kazuma’s warm hospitality offered moments of reflection under a the starry African night sky, as we swapped stories around the firelit boma.
Day 7: Entering Zimbabwe—Nantwich Safari Lodge
Crossing into Zimbabwe was a surprisingly seamless experience. It was slightly busy due to it being peak season, so I would highly recommend going earlier in the day rather than later. Once we were collected from the Zimbabwean side of the border, we continued on for 2 hours by road to Nantwich Safari Lodge, where we were warmly welcomed. Located in the heart of Hwange National Park, the lodge embodies the essence of an authentic safari experience, with the journey to the lodge highlighting the remote beauty and vastness of Zimbabwe’s wilderness.
Days 8–9: The Wonders of Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
Our time in Hwange National Park was filled with unforgettable encounters with Africa’s iconic wildlife, through both guided walks and game drives. We also had the opportunity to visit some local markets, marvelling at incredible handcrafted baskets and wood-carved bowls, while chatting with friendly locals.
Day 10–11: Victoria Falls: The Grand Conclusion at Ilala Lodge and Mbano Manor
Our visit to the Zimbabwean side of Victoria Falls was a fitting climax to our journey, with the thundering falls and their misty spray a breathtaking sight (I always chat to my clients about the seasons in Victoria Falls, as water levels change significantly throughout the year – as does the weather!).
Our final night with the group was staying at popular Ilala Lodge, a partner of Hideaways Africa. Situated right in Victoria Falls Town, this elegant heritage hotel offers almost front-row seats to the distant spray of the falls – reminding me of the raw power and beauty of this natural wonder. It also made for easy access to many of the activities on offer in town, from cruises on the Zambezi River, heli flips, white water rafting and guided tours of the falls themselves.
As I said goodbye to my group, I spent my final day solo visiting the incredibly luxurious Victoria Falls River Lodge, and the boutique Mbano Manor, where I spent my final night. Both properties offer luxurious comfort and stunning views of the Zambezi River – providing the perfect end to my exhilarating journey.