Botswana “Classic Botswana” |
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| BOTSWANA (2008) “Classic Botswana” |
Code: BP10 |
10 day small group participation camping safari
Group size: max 12 people
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DEPARTS: MAUN on Thursday at 14:00 pm
ENDS: LIVINGSTONE on Saturday at +/-08:00 am |
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Highlights
* Moremi Game Reserve – game drives
* Savuti – game drives
* Chobe National Park – game drive and river cruise
* Victoria Falls – adventure activities |
Includes
* 9 nights camping
* Entrance fees
* Use of camping equipment (except sleeping bags & pillows)
* Transport in 4WD game viewing vehicle
* Meals as per itinerary
* Professional guide
* Moremi Savuti and Chobe game drives |
An exclusive wildlife experience in the premier national parks and game reserves of Botswana. Some of the best game viewing in Africa - Moremi, Savuti and Chobe! Safari through the wilderness areas of Botswana on open 4WD vehicles and watch elephants from a boat as they drink from the Chobe River. Culminating in the wonderful views of Victoria Falls! |
ITINERARY |
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(B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner) |
Extend your holiday with a spectacular wilderness experience in the Okavango Delta. Relax as your
poler expertly guides your mokoro through the winding channels of the delta. Camp is set up on the
islands under a towering canopy of trees. We head out on foot on game walks in the morning and
evenings with out local guides. During the heat of the day, time is spent relaxing in camp, bird watching
or swimming in the crystal clear waters.
This experience starts 3 days before the Classic Botswana and creates a 13 day Okavango to Victoria
Falls camping tour. |
| Day 1 |
MAUN
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[camping - - -] |
Our adventure begins in Maun, a small town located on the South Eastern edge of the Okavango Delta and our access
point to the wilderness of Botswana. For the more adventurous of heart there is a scenic flight over the Okavango
Delta (own expense). The day ends with a relaxing sundowner drink at the pool, and a meal in the lodge restaurant,
(own expense) celebrating the start of the journey.
Includes: N/A
Overnight: Campsite – good ablution facilities, with hot showers, swimming pool, bar & restaurant
Distance/time: N/A
Optional Activities: Scenic flight over the Okavango Delta (+/-USD70-90 pp depending on number of people in
each aircraft) |
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| Day 2 – 3 |
MOREMI
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[camping BLD] |
After an early start we head north out of Maun, to the Moremi Game Reserve, in our open 4WD vehicle. This unique
area is named after the Chief of the Batawana tribe, who founded the reserve in 1963. The reserve protects a large
part of the greater Okavango Delta. The grasslands, floodplains, forests and winding water channels combine to form
a variety of game viewing habitats attracting amongst others; elephant, lion, hippo, leopard and wild dog. We
explore the reserve on morning and afternoon game drives, relax during the heat of the day and spend two nights
wild camping in the reserve.
Includes: Entrance fees, morning and afternoon game drives in open 4WD game viewing vehicle
Overnight: Wild camping – basic ablutions, bucket shower
Distance/time: 150kms ± 4 hours, excludes game drives & stops for wildlife viewing (Maun – Moremi)
Optional Activities: N/A
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| Day 4 – 5 |
SAVUTI
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[camping BLD] |
The dry Savuti channel runs from the west into the sandy Mababe depression, but it seldom flows, so the seasonal
rains and waterholes in the park ensure a perennial source of life for the game in the area. Wildlife gathers on the
open plains of the Savuti marsh and the surrounding dry camel thorn trees make this place a wildlife photographer’s
dream. Famous for its big game and particularly its predators – the lions and the hyenas of Savuti fight a constant
battle for survival. We spend 2 nights camping in this area, near a waterhole which is a constant source of activity.
Includes: Entrance fees, morning and afternoon game drives in open 4WD game viewing vehicle
Overnight: Wild camping – basic ablutions, bucket shower
Distance/time: 200kms ± 5 hours, excludes game drives & stops for wildlife viewing (Moremi – Savuti)
Optional Activities: N/A |
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| Day 6 – 7 |
CHOBE NATIONAL PARK
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[camping Bx2 Lx2 Dx1] |
Chobe National Park offers an exceptional wildlife experience. The meandering river feeds the flood plains, which
provides essential grazing to the herbivores throughout the year. Chobe is most famous for massive herds of
elephants. One is more than likely to spot them during the dry season, in the late afternoon, when herd after herd of
elephants emerge from the Mopane woodland to quench their thirst.
Our experience in Chobe is rounded off with a spectacular afternoon cruise on the river. This is one of the best ways
to view the elephants and to get closer to the hippos and crocodiles. One night is spent camping in the Chobe
National Park and one night on the border of the park, in Kasane. Evening meals can be enjoyed in the local
restaurant (own expense).
Includes: Entrance fees, morning and afternoon game drives in open 4WD game viewing vehicle &
sunset cruise on Chobe River
Overnight: 6th night wild camping – basic ablutions, bucket shower
7th night campsite - good ablution facilities, hot showers, swimming pool, bar & restaurant
Distance/time: 200kms ± 4 hours, excluding game drives & stops for wildlife viewing (Savuti – Chobe)
75kms ± 2½ hours, excluding stops for wildlife + 3 hour boat cruise (Chobe – Kasane)
Optional Activities: N/A |
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| Day 8 – 9 |
VICTORIA FALLS / LIVINGSTONE
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[camping B - -] |
Crossing the Zambezi River we enter Zambia and make our way to Livingstone for our final 2 nights. The Zambezi
river plummets 110 meters over the Victoria Falls and it is a breathtaking sight. We spend half a day touring the falls
before setting up camp. The following day is at leisure to enjoy some of the wonderful activities available in the
adventure capital of Southern Africa. The Flight of Angels over the falls in a micro light is highly recommended, as is a
day of rafting on the white waters of the mighty Zambezi River. Alternatively an elephant back safari is an experience
never to be forgotten. Our evening meals are in colourful local restaurants (own expense).
Includes: Entrance Fees to see the Victoria Falls
Overnight: Campsite - - good ablution facilities, hot showers, swimming pool, bar & restaurant
Distance/time: 85kms – 1 hour, excluding border formalities (which can take 2 to 4+ hours)
Optional Activities: White water rafting, sunset cruises, elephant back safaris, scenic flights & many more |
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| Day 10 |
LIVINGSTONE – TOUR ENDS
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[- B - -] |
Tour ends at 08:00 after breakfast. Transfers to local airports are available.
Flights are available from Livingstone to Johannesburg or you can take a free Sunway transit return to
Johannesburg with the tour vehicle (all meals and accommodation for own expense). 2 days, arrives
Johannesburg at +/- 18:00 on Sunday. Subject to availability.
The distance and travel times quoted above are an estimate only, and subject to local road conditions and animal
sightings!
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Price: (valid Jan 2008 – Dec 2008)
€ 925 pps + local payment of US$ 300
2008 Departure dates |
10-Jan-08
24-Jan-08
07-Feb-08
21-Feb-08
06-Mar-08
20-Mar-08
03-Apr-08
17-Apr-08
01-May-08
15-May-08
29-May-08
12-Jun-08
19-Jun-08
03-Jul-08
10-Jul-08
24-Jul-08
31-Jul-08
07-Aug-08
14-Aug-08
21-Aug-08
04-Sep-08
11-Sep-08
18-Sep-08
02-Oct-08
09-Oct-08
16-Oct-08
30-Oct-08
06-Nov-08
13-Nov-08
27-Nov-08
04-Dec-08
11-Dec-08
25-Dec-08
01-Jan-09 |
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19-Jan-08
02-Feb-08
16-Feb-08
01-Mar-08
15-Mar-08
29-Mar-08
12-Apr-08
26-Apr-08
10-May-08
24-May-08
07-Jun-08
21-Jun-08
28-Jun-08
12-Jul-08
19-Jul-08
02-Aug-08
09-Aug-08
16-Aug-08
23-Aug-08
30-Aug-08
13-Sep-08
20-Sep-08
27-Sep-08
11-Oct-08
18-Oct-08
25-Oct-08
08-Nov-08
15-Nov-08
22-Nov-08
06-Dec-08
13-Dec-08
20-Dec-08
03-Jan-09
10-Jan-09 |
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| * German: |
These tours are lead by a German speaking tour leader. |
| * ZB: |
These tours can be combined with the Zambia & Botswana Untamed Rivers safari for the best of Botswana and
Zambia’s wildlife. |
| * LM: |
These tours can be combined with the Livingstone – Johannesburg Trade Routes tours to great an ultimate
Southern African experience |
DETAILED TOUR INFO |
In a nutshell
· A true African experience - wild and free!
· All inclusive trip with cultural experience, adventure and wildlife.
· Victoria Falls, Moremi Game Reserve, Chobe National Park & Savuti.
Why travellers like this trip
1. Variety – a tour that provides amazing African experiences; from the wildlife areas of Moremi Game Reserve,
Savuti and Chobe National Park to the Victoria Falls!
2. National Parks and wildlife areas – This safari is a pure game viewing experience - we visit the world
famous Moremi Game Reserve, Savuti and Chobe National Park. There is no more rewarding wilderness
experience in Africa!
3. Small group – travelling in groups of up to 12 people creates a friendly, holiday atmosphere.
4. Walking – this safari is primarily game vehicle from the open 4WD vehicle and it is not permitted to walk away
from the camp in the national parks / game reserves. But in Victoria Falls we will get out and walk to explore the
Victoria Falls. This walk is easy and optional. Duration from ½ - 2 hours.
5. Adventure – activities available include: rafting the mighty Zambezi! Bungi jumping, sky diving, horse riding,
mokoro trail and game walks!
6. Open 4WD game drives – our trips have the best wildlife viewing opportunities by visiting the game reserves
and national parks in open 4WD game drive vehicles. We tow a custom built trailer for camping equipment and
baggage.
Accommodation
· Camping - for 4 nights on safari we stay at designated campsites in national parks, on private land and in towns.
Campsite facilities are generally very good but in places can be basic. There are hot and cold showers,
restaurants, washing facilities and telephones available at most of the campsites. Some camps in Botswana have
simple reed enclosures for showers but do have flush toilets!
Sunway supplies all the camping equipment with the exception of your sleeping bag and pillow. The dome tents
we use are 2.2 x 2.2 x 1.8 meters and putting them up or down takes only 5 minutes. Tents have built-in insect
nets. We supply mattresses, which are about 5 cm thick, warm and comfortable. The camp chairs have a
backrest.
· Wild camping - for 5 nights while in the Moremi Game Reserve and Savuti / Chobe National Park we camp wild
Wild camps have no facilities; we will need to take our own water and all equipment. Wild camping can be very
enjoyable but please remember that we leave no trace of our stay and take all rubbish away with us. Toilets will
be of the “dig and bury” variety and a simple bucket bush shower will be provided.
Transport
· On foot – an easy walk in Victoria Falls. Duration from ½ - 2 hours.
· Open 4WD – for this entire safari, including game viewing activities in Moremi Game Reserve, Savuti and Chobe
National Parks we use an open game viewing 4WD vehicle with trailer. The vehicle has canvas roof and sides,
which are rolled up when ever possible, to allow for the best possible game viewing experience. (Remember to
bring a warm jacket for the chilly early morning game drives!) This allows us the opportunity to really feel part of
the bush, the smells, sounds and of course great views!
Local Payment
· A local payment is required on this safari and this will be collected by the tour leader on departure. This covers a
portion of the local operational costs including entrance and park fees. This ensures that a major portion of your
tour price goes directly into the country you are visiting, benefiting local communities and contributing to the
conservation of the area.
Participation
· An essential part of your Sunway Safari is participation – from putting up your tent (while camping) or packing
away in the morning to helping with meal preparation and cleaning up – it’s all part of your adventure and when
everyone puts in a little effort the trip will run smoothly. Your tour leaders will do all the meal preparation but we
do ask the clients to help with the washing up. Team spirit is part of the fun!
Zambian Tourist Visa Waiver
· Sunway Safaris can apply for a Zambian tourist visa waiver on behalf of Sunway clients. Please forward passport
details with your booking. Please note that, although Sunway will apply for the visa wavier, this is not a
guaranteed waiver and issue of a free of charge tourist visa is subject to Zambian border authority decision.
Shopping
· Craft shopping for carvings, batiks, paintings and clothing is best in Victoria Falls which has a wide variety of
curios. Botswana has beautiful grass weavings but these are available mostly at curio shops as there are hardly
any craft markets in Botswana.
Food
· We pride ourselves on giving very good healthy meals to our clients and will provide three meals per day, except
4 dinners and 2 lunches in Victoria Falls, Kasane and Maun where we try out local restaurants.
· The tour leaders do the shopping and meal planning for each group. He/she will always try to obtain fresh
produce wherever possible. A rough idea of what these will consist of is: Breakfast - cereals or coffee and toast
or the occasional fried breakfast, Lunch - cheese, cold meats, salads on bread or rolls, Dinner - braais (local barbecue), potjies (stews), stir fries etc. We use regular plates, cups and cutlery. All cooking and eating utensils
will also be provided.
· We do cater for special dietary requirements (e.g. vegetarian or allergies.)
· We will supply fruit squash served with breakfast and tea or coffee served with breakfast and dinner. All other
beverages will be for your own expense. We will not supply bottled drinking water although it is available at
many shops on tour.
Difficulty
· Anyone who is generally active and in good health should enjoy this trip. Simple campsites and basic wild camps
are enjoyed by the outdoor enthusiast, you will get dusty on occasion; but this is Africa!
· Full itinerary with a couple of long driving days. The road conditions through the wilderness areas a very poor
and our progress can at times be slow and dusty. Remember to hold on at all times and enjoy the ride!
· Everyone is asked to help out with the running of camp on tour. In other words if everyone spends a little time
setting up camp, preparing meals and cleaning up then the tour will run smoothly and everyone will have a good
time. Participation is the name of the game.
Things you should know
· Includes park entrances and game drives.
· As this tour spends most of the time in wilderness areas it is essential that clients adhere to the tour leaders (and
local guides) instructions regarding interaction with wildlife, camp safety and game walk/drive rules.
· Your client will need a valid passport and visas for entry into Zambia, and Botswana and re-entering South Africa.
· There is a visa waiver service available through Sunway Safaris for Zambia – please enquire at the time of
booking.
· Luggage, please pack to a limit of 12kgs in a soft sports tog bag. Also bring daypack for walks and keeping in the
vehicle.
· We recommend that you bring Euro, US$ or South African Rand for personal expenses on this trip but please
note that foreign currency will need to changed into Botswana Pula (BWP) as shops, restaurants and market
vendors only accept BWP. Expenses in Livingstone can be paid in US$ or Euro and major credit cards can also be
used for optional activities. Traveller’s cheques can be changed in Maun, Kasane and Livingstone (although in
Zambia travellers cheque attract a very high commission).
Common questions about this trip
1. What do I need to bring?
A warm sleeping bag, comfortable clothes for warm days and cool evenings, walking
shoes, a raincoat, hat and sunglasses, swimsuit, a water bottle and a small pair of binoculars also comes in very
handy and most importantly - a sense of adventure!
2. Is it safe?
Botswana is relatively safe and your guide knows the countries intimately and will endeavor to show
you the best parts while looking after you. In the wild areas your guide will brief you on the necessary
precautions, follow this advice and you will be fine. Be aware of your personal belongings and you will have a
great trip!
3. Do I need malaria tablets?
Yes, the trip passes through malaria areas and prophylactics are recommended.
4. Can I buy camera film?
Film and other accessories will be available several times on tour. A camera with a
zoom lens from wide angle to telephoto, 35-200mm, is advisable to capture both scenic and wildlife shots.
5. Can I wash my clothes on tour?
There are facilities for hand washing your clothes along the way in Victoria
Falls and Maun. |
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Botswana
Population: approx. 1,600,000
Climate: semiarid; warm winters and hot summers.
Terrain: predominantly flat to gently rolling tableland; Kalahari Desert in southwest. |
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Is the premier wildlife destination in Southern Africa. The rustic, remote atmosphere of Botswana's wildlife areas offer real adventure. Open 4 wheel drive game drives in Moremi game reserve, Savuti and Chobe National Parks are the experience of a lifetime.
The experience of being polled into the Okavango Delta is unriveled. You polers will interepret birdlife as you pass through tranquil waterlilly covered lagoons to your camp. Your professional guide will lead you on game walks getting you close to nature. If your passion in camping close to the wildlife or the comfort of a luxury lodge safari Botswana has something to offer you.
The vast Magadikgadi Pans seasonally fill with water and attract amazing birdlife including flamingoes and pelicans.
A short journey across the border at Kazangula into Zamiba gets you to one of the natural wonders of the world Victoria Falls. |
| Optional Activities |
| · Flight over Okavango |
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Zambia
Population: approx. 11,250,000
Climate: tropical; modified by altitude; rainy season (October to April).
Terrain: mostly high plateau with some hills and mountains, Zambezi River valley in south west. |
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A land of Untamed Rivers. The mighty Zambezi River forms southern boundry crossing over the Victoria Falls and through Lake Kariba into the Lower Zambezi Valley. A canoeing trip on the Zambezi gets you close to the wildlife as you paddle with the current through Mana Pools and the Lower Zambezi National Parks.
The adventure activities in Victoira Falls cater for all tastes from the wildest adrenaline rush river rafting and bungi jumping to the views of the falls from the flight of angels and getting close to nature on the elephant back safari.
South Luangwa National Park the eastern side of Zambia offers an abundance of wildlife that is rarely seen in other game reserves and is one of the finest wildlife sanctuaries in the world. |
| Optional Activities |
| · Game drives |
· Horse riding |
· River boarding |
| · Flight – fixed wing |
· Flight – helicopter |
· Flight – micro light |
| · Rafting ½ day & full day |
· Bungi jumping |
· Elephant rides |
| · Snake park |
· Zambezi cruise |
· Crocodile farm |
| · Canoe upper – Zambezi ½ day & full day |
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Reservations and Enquiries |
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