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Malini Pittet
Photojournalism I Conservation I Travel Consulting
BOTSWANA
Salt Pans and Watery Worlds: where man and nature have learnt to adapt to extreme conditions
In a world of seasonal flooding and arid deserts, man and wildlife have learnt to adapt to both extremes. Botswana is not only fantastically rich in wildlife and landscapes but also has an intriguing history. From being one of the poorest countries when gaining independence, Botswana has risen to become one of the most stable African countries, economically and socially. The discovery of diamonds and the recognition of the importance of wildlife and wildlife conservation has made it one of the top destinations for spectacular nature experiences.
Trip Inspiration
A “Classic Kalahari Desert and Okavango Delta itinerary” gives you the opportunity to experience the wildlife and beauty of both the rich delta teaming with life and the deserted salt pans over a period of two weeks.
Our journey begins in Maun where we have one safety buffer night and get into safari mode. The next day we head to the Makgadikgadi Pans for some one-on-one time with the meerkats. Depending on seasonality we would go to the Central Kalahari Reserve as the Magkadikgadi Pans are not accessible all year. After some incredible moments with the meerkats, we board a light aircraft to the Okavango Delta. Being able to fly over the delta and then see it from the ground is a great way to experience this UNESCO heritage site. Your curiosity and wonderment will be nurtured in the different safari camps across the delta. We will spend a few days in each one as every place has its particular highlight species (lions, leopards, wild dogs, hyenas, birds, etc.). Our camps of preference will be Stanley’s Camp, Kwara or Little Kwara. Although you can spend a month in the delta you will still not have enough time to quench your curiosity, but it is time to fly to the Linyanti Chobe area to experience wildlife in a different landscape. We would stay at Selinda Camp, Zarafa Camp for some spectacular birding and magnificent wild dog, elephant and leopard sightings. The Chobe River offers some phenomenal sightings of wildlife coming to the river to drink giving unique photographic angles. Our safari reaches its end and we will transfer back to Maun from where you can connect with international flights. Through out the safari you will be in the lap of luxury with your needs attended to by the best.
Alternatively the trip can take you a few more days to explore Victoria Falls and Zimbabwe’s wildlife or to the little known wilderness of Zambia.
Why Botswana?
Botswana was the stage for one of the world's most charismatic love stories, between a local royal Seretse Khama and a British lady Ruth Williams. Serestse Khama's obstinance was responsible for brining diamonds onto the economic stage and his descendant Ian Khama played a key role in the cessation of trophy hunting in Botswana. Ian Khama has personally attended rhinoceros reintroduction projects and is passionate about wildlife and conservation.
Read all about Botswana's history and wildlife here
Did you know? Rain is so important in Botswana that their currency is made up of "rain" and "raindrops"- pula and thebe!
Interested in travelling to Botswana? Interested in other destinations?
Contact malini.pittet(at)gmail.com
PHOTOGRAPHY HIGHLIGHTS
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Spectacular landscapes
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Animal behaviour and interactions
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Rare species
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Small groups or individuals photographing alone over large areas
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Exclusive access to concessions and local guides
A quick hop across the border opens up spectacular options like the Busanga Plains of the Kafue National park, rare herbivores of the South Luangwa National Park in Zambia. Alternatively, experience the magic of Mana Pools and teeming herds of buffalo and elephant in Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe!
