Going to Botswana’s Delta is always something very special and I was one of the lucky ones to do just that recently.  We flew on Mack Air from Kasane and landed in Nxabega, where we transferred by open car to our tented camping experience.

On arrival at Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp, we were greeted with the warmest friendly welcome, with such sincerity, it put us immediately at ease and, WOW!, the vast expanse of 26 000 hectares, where we were but a handful of people, is an amazing feeling.

 

 

The camp is small and secluded amongst the trees, with a beautiful view of reed-filled waterways and a sparkling lagoon.

And what a camping setup!!!  Tents have  a private enclosed toilet, with an open area to shower under a bucket that is filled to your optimum temperature by the wonderful ‘butler’ named Equator – a tall gentleman, who knows how to discreetly take the greatest care of his guests.  The amenities are laid out and the towels fresh and soft.  Inside the sleeping tent is a very comfy bed and canvas ‘cupboards’ to hold your belongings – all very, very comfortable.

Dinner is under the stars, with a jack of lanterns hanging from a tree branch, and the company is relaxed, especially after the first soothing glass of wine around the camp fire.  It was early to bed as the days start with an early game drive, or walk, which we opted for.
Walking with ‘Chief’, our ranger, was a delight – he was a real man of Africa, filled with knowledge and amusing stories.  Standing amongst the zebras and giraffe, learning about the world of the ant hill, makes one realise just how insignificant we are in the big scheme of things!

 

We spent two nights here swapping between game drives and walks, smelling Africa, talking of birds, animals, flora and fauna – an extremely special experience.

 

Of course we could not resist a site inspection of the new lodge being built nearby Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp.  Its spacious rooms overlook a flood plain – so very lovely!

We then took our next small aircraft flight to Xudum Lodge, a beautifully crafted lodge overlooking a channel.  There is lots of water activity here during the wet months, however, we were there at the end of the ‘dry’ season, but it was still possible to do wonderful game drives with our expert ranger and guide.

 

There are only 9 suites and we found that families were drawn to this lodge as there were two families in camp with us.  The children had so much to do, and were loving it.  Here our most special experience was our walk with Bushmen – it was exceptional – a must do on any bucket list!  To learn how this community use the land for medicines, food and dress, and how they hunt and stare at lions – even taking their kill is just amazing!

 

Thank you to Grant, Patrick, Chief and andBeyond for a most wonderful stay in beautiful Botswana.  This space in Botswana is TRUE LUXURY – absolutely the definitive of the word!

 

Until next time, fond regards ….