Birding

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The chance of seeing up to 600 species of birds in Botswana must appeal to any ornithologist. This is due to the diverse ecology of the country.

In the Okavango Delta or the Chobe River, you can expect to see up to 200 species in a week, most of the year round. On the Makgadikgadi Pans in north-east Botswana, birdlife is sparse if the Pans are dry but at the end of a good rainy season (January – March) millions of birds congregate, notably pelicans, flamingos and ducks. The Tuli Block in the far east of the country is so habitat-diverse in such a small area that it is a top birding destination – seeing 150 species over several days is not uncommon.

Requirements
A mild degree of fitness as birding will probably be combined with a guided nature walk. In expected warm temperatures, plenty of drinking water should be carried.

Variety
There are up to 600 species of birds, both resident and migratory. Included are kingfishers, saddle-billed storks, bee-eaters, flamingos, pelicans, egrets, coucals and owls, including the rare Pel's fishing owl. Other special sightings may include the short-clawed lark, the shoebill, and the African finfoot.

Recommended lodges and camps that have excellent birding:
The Okavango Delta: Chitabe Camp, Duba Plains, Xigera Safari Camp, Sandibe Safari Lodge
The Tuli Block: Tuli Safari Lodge
Chobe area: Impalila Island Lodge, Kings Pool Camp, Muchenje Safari Lodge, Selinda Camp
The Makgadikgadi Pan (end of rainy season): Jack's Camp, San Camp

Best time to go
The warmer months of October toMarch are best as resident as well as migrant birds are around. However it must be noted that there hundreds of resident species so the dry winter months are also prolific.

Prices per person
Included with the accommodation rates for the recommended camps above - for guided birding safari rates, contact julie@off2africa.com

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Canoeing by Mokoro

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This classic activity epitomises a holiday in the Okavango Delta where often in the year it is the only means of reaching certain locations. A mokoro is traditionally carved from the trunks of trees but in eco-friendly fashion, fibreglass replicas are now generally used.

Gliding between papyrus reeds and over the crystal clear waters of the Delta's waterways, you have all the time in the world to take in the abundance of bird and wildlife (including elephant, buffalo, lion, wild dog and antelope) while your guide steers the mokoro along. The guides elevate the experience with a wealth of knowledge on the area's flora and fauna.

On mokoro trail itineraries, it is an unforgettable experience to camp out in the wild and experience one of Africa's greatest treasures.

Safety and requirements
Mokoro-ing is very safe and even more so with a guide on hand on each craft. All guests are covered by the emergency services of MRI (Medical Rescue International)

Variety of trips
Recommended lodges and camps that include mokoro trips:

Camp Okavango, Duba Plains, Kwara Camp, Kwetsani Camp, Vumbura Camp, Semetsi Camp, Xigera Safari Camp, Xugana Island Lodge
Oddballs Palm Island Luxury Lodge - daily excursions and longer overnight trips, including the popular 5-night trail (3 nights on trail, first and last in camp)

Best times to go
The dry, winter months when day temperatures are warm, May to September.

Prices per person
Mostly included in all inclusive rates at recommended lodges above.
Oddballs Palm Island Luxury Lodge - from US$230 per day for mokoro trails (inc. all equipment, meals, Park Fees, guided walks, teas & coffees).

Please contact Julie for current rates & canoeing packages.

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Elephant Back Safari

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Elephant back safaris were made famous at Abu Camp in the Okavango Delta and the safari is still held in the highest esteem, CNN quipping "'If you only do one safari in your entire lifetime, this is the one".

No effort has been spared to ensure that guests enjoy this unique experience in total comfort and safety. The rider is seated in large padded saddles which are mounted behind the most experienced and knowledgeable elephant handlers in Africa. The safaris offer many magical, memorable moments, including the opportunity to come very close to and even mingle with the wild animals. The herds of giraffe, zebra and antelope are unconcerned by the approach of the elephant herd of which you are a privileged part.

Perhaps as special as the ride itself, is being in touch and educated about the complex behaviour of elephants and viewing this behaviour at such close quarters.

Safety and requirements
Each elephant has it's own personal handler who accompanies you on your safari. All handlers are highly trained and all guests on safari are covered by MRI (Medical Rescue International).

Variety of trips
This is a standard 6 day 5 night safari which starts on Wednesdays and finishes on Mondays.

Best time to go
Trips run all year round but in the dry winter months June to October, the visibility in the bush is better and day temperatures are warm.

Prices per person (all inclusive)
6 day safari - from US$7 500 + 10% VAT

Please contat Julie for current rates & packages.