EDITOR’S NOTE
There’s something quietly
freely in wide, open spaces.
self-assured and sophisticated
It’s a place of endless skies and
about Botswana. It’s one of
exotic wildlife, and whenever
those rare places in the world
I come back here, I feel a true
where you’ll find no fanfare
connection to the land from
or hype. Yes, it may have one
whence we all came.
of the world’s fastest growing economies, and yes, the
Whether star-gazing in the
wildlife watching opportunities
heart of the Makgadikgadi Pans
and luxury lodges here are
or training my zoom lens on
world-class, but this is still
the Big Five from the comfort
a country that one can come
of a boat on the Okavango
to quietly reflect. This is a
Delta; I am always acutely
spiritual and humble land, a
aware of the peace Botswana
place that modestly makes
instils within me. A country
good on its promises to
that has the ability to leave an
provide exceptional travel
impression to last a lifetime;
experiences for lovers of life
it is with great joy that I
and the outdoors. Botswana is
encourage you to turn the
the place I go when I want to
page and discover the very
escape. When I want to wander
best of Botswana.
Tom Marchant, Co-Founder Black Tomato
Botswana Field Notes
WELCOME TO
BOTSWANA
B ot s wana is a s tu n n in g u n to u c h e d j ew el in the cr o wn o f Afric a . Largely covered by the sands of the Kalahari, the isolated lunar-like surface of the Makgadikgadi Pans and the splendour of the Okavango Delta, Botswana is rich in natural beauty. Add to this a generous dose of exceptional hospitality and you’ll see why our Africa experts were so keen to share some of their Botswana favourites with you in this little book of inspiration.
Kas ane
Botswana Field Notes
Sh a k a we Chobe National Park
O k a va n g o d e lta Moremi Game Reserve
G c wih a b a C a ve s
Ma u n S e h i th w a D ’ ka r Ghanzi Central Kalahari Game Reserve
Ch a r le s H ill
Kang Gaborone
H u k u n ts i Ka a
Khakhea
K g a la gadi Tr a n s fr o n ti e r P ark
lo
po
riv
er
We rd a
Mo
N AM I BI A
N xai Pan N a ti onal Park
S O U TH A FR ICA
MAP Zambezi rive r
OF
THE
COUNTRY ZIMBABWE
Nat a
Ramokgwebana
Serul e Pal apye Z a n zib a r
Visit blacktomato.com to discover more
Botswana Field Notes
TOP
4
LUXURY
SAFARI
EXPERIENCES PR IVATE CH EF AT Z A R A FA C A MP D H O W S U IT E S The Dhow Suites at Zarafa Camp indulge you with a private pool, an extensive veranda and your own attentive staff. This includes a personal chef to cater for your individual tastes. Throughout your stay, your chef will serve a menu of contemporary and traditional dishes to ensure a truly authentic and personal experience.
S TA R G A Z E F R O M Y O UR B AT H AT
uses environmentally
SANC TUA RY B A I N E S’
to provide you with an
CAMP
exceptional spa experience.
The suites at Baines’ Camp all come with private decking, so you can easily gaze out at the wildlife on your doorstep. What’s more, the verandas here have their own tubs, so allow the staff to run you an indulgent bubble bath beneath the stars – you’ll struggle to find such scenic views from
friendly indigenous products and high quality therapies
H ELICO PTER SA FA R I AT B E L MO N D E A G L E IS L A N D For an utterly extravagant yet unique safari perspective, Belmond Eagle Island offers a helicopter safari. This trip, from a private island in the heart of
a bath anywhere else.
the Okavango Delta, gives
S PA
of the stunning flora and
AT SA N CT U A RY
CHIEF’ S CA M P Find true relaxation with an outdoor massage, lulled by the sounds of the Mombo Concession, or feel refreshed after a facial, nourished from locally-sourced African plants and herbs. The spa at Sanctuary Chief’s Camp
spectacular birds-eye views fauna of the UNESCO World Heritage 1000 Site.
Botswana Field Notes
EXPLORING THE
GREAT
OUTDOORS
M O K OR O E X C U R S IO N H O RS EB A C K SA FARIS I N THE OKAVA N G O D E LTA
IN T H E S E LIN D A S P IL LWAY
The Okavango Delta is one of
A horseback safari will
the best places to spot wildlife provide you with the chance in Africa, and for the ultimate
to get close to animals
vantage point, nothing quite
without the intrusion of the
beats a water-based safari.
noise of an engine. Tours
Hear the gentle lapping of the
across the Selinda Spillway
Delta as you glide through
are simply exceptional. Feel
the water on your traditional
the wind through your hair
mokoro. Resembling a
as you trot across the open
venetian gondola, complete
plains and paddle through the
with pole-man steering punt-
shallows. Expect to see herds
style from behind, these boats
of buffalo, majestic African
are originally made of dugout
elephants and wild dogs as
tree trunks, making the whole
you take this truly exhilarating
experience feel raw and
journey across the terrain.
wonderfully natural.
FISH IN G IN CHOBE Life on land may get the majority of the attention when it comes to Africa, but there is a plethora of marine life to pique the interest of any angler. Catfish, pike and the elusive tiger fish are just some of the species you can expect to catch on a fishing excursion in the River Chobe. And for those who aren’t fishing mad, the boat cruise alone is a wonderful way to see Chobe National Park.
B IRD WATC H IN G A CROSS TH E C O UNTRY The immense open skies of Botswana are awash with some of the most fascinating and dynamic bird-life. Be on the lookout for spoonbills, nightjars, giant kingfishers and fishing owls. See huge flocks of the abundant red-billed quelea or the threatened slaty egret. With a range of species to be found across the different regions of the country, you’re bound to be close to the action wherever you are. Botswana really is a twitcher’s paradise.
Botswana Field Notes
SAFARI SOPHISTICATION
Just because you’re in the wilderness, it doesn’t mean you’re a million miles away from luxury. When it comes to the most opulent safaris in Africa, the lodges and
camps of Botswana have got it covered. And whether you want to treat someone special, or simply indulge yourself, we think you’ll find what you’re looking for amongst our top picks...
Botswana Field Notes
Safari top pick
MOTSWIRI CAMP Small and personal are t wo words that perfectly describe Motswiri, a camp that’s ideal for family visits to the area. Fully equipped with a beautiful plunge pool, Motswiri Camp will give you all the trappings of a Botswana safari whilst meeting the exacting st andards of any discerning traveller.
LOC AT I O N The camp sits on the Selinda Spillway between the Okavango and KwandoLinyanti floodplains. The flooding of the spillway during the wet season makes Motswiri the perfect place for a boating safari.
Y O UR R O O M The rooms and communal areas are elegantly decorated and feature aircon, ceiling fans and gas fireplaces. Each lodge villa enjoys a private wooden deck, as well as outdoor showers and luxurious ensuites.
WH Y WE LIKE IT The friendly, laid-back atmosphere is what draws us in to Motswiri. That, and the array of activities on offer. Make sure to try one of their famous horse-back safaris for a thoroughly exhilarating expedition across the stunning landscape.
Botswana Field Notes
WILD BOTSWANA
F R E E & U NTA M E D It’s unsurprising that such a variety of species can be found in a landscape as wild as Botswana’s. Look out for the endangered wild dogs, kori bustards and Pel’s fishing owls as you venture deeper into the unknown. Whether in a secluded lodge or on a safari excursion you’ll never be far from a memorable sight or sound.
THE B I G 5 A haven for wildlife, Botswana is one of the best places in Africa to see all of the Big Five: lion, elephant, Cape buffalo, leopard and white and black rhinoceros. In fact, Botswana has the highest elephant population in all of Africa, with the Chobe River being one of the best places to see their female-led families.
RARE AND END ANG E R E D Thanks to the fertile habitat of the Okavango and Chobe Rivers, as well as the country’s proactive approach to conservation, Botswana is an excellent place to see rare species. The endangered antelope puku, pangolin (anteater) and cheetah can all be found here.
CO N SER VATIO N N ATIO N In addition to ensuring the rich habitat is nurtured for generations to come, Botswana’s environmentallyfriendly practices also promote conservation. You won’t find any big game hunters here; all safari ‘shoots’ are strictly for cameras only.
Botswana Field Notes
Safa r i t o p p i c k
SANCTUARY CHIEF’S CAMP Sanctuary Chief’s Camp is perfectly positioned for a gentler paced safari experience. The traditional style and layout of the property, combined with its stunning location render it one of our favourite stops in Botswana.
LOC AT I O N The camp is located on Chief’s Island in the Mombo Concession of the Moremi Game Reserve. The landscape here is changeable, as the seasons range from dry to wet,
wilderness. With stunning open bathrooms, airconditioning, Wi-Fi, plunge pools and even a gym; the camp still retains ecofriendly credentials, gaining its energy from solar power.
meaning the place is
WH Y WE LIKE IT
teeming with wildlife and
Whilst there are plenty of
has even been dubbed ‘The
activities to choose from at
Predator Capital of Africa’.
Sanctuary Chiefs Camp, it’s also the ideal retreat
Y O UR R O O M Sumptuous furnishings fill the suites here. More than fitting of the description ‘safari chic’, you’ll barely believe that you’re in the middle of the African
for the more relaxed traveller. Be sure to make use of their wonderful spa for a massage with a view you’ll never forget.
Botswana Field Notes
CULTURAL
BOTSWANA
T he s em in omadic li f es t yle of the m any tr ibes o f B o tswana wi l l inspir e a ny t r aveller yearn ing for cultur al im mer sion.
MEET TH E FIRST O F B O TSWA N A – T H E B A S A R WA The Basarwa are a people that have a truly incredible connection to the land in which they live, and the opportunity to meet them is one not to be missed. Watch, learn and be inspired.
A NI MA L T R A C K I NG
LO CA L CO O K IN G
Animal tracking has always
A great one for younger
been an integral part of
explorers - learn to live
survival on the plains
off the land and cook by
of Botswana. Learn the
open fire. We can arrange
tracking techniques used for
for your budding voyagers
centuries by the indigenous
to take part in camp crafts
tribes of Botswana and
and fishing experiences
understand more about
before following traditional
the living habits of the
techniques to prepare a meal
animals that roam this vast
at the end of the day.
wilderness.
C O NS E R VAT I O N Like many of the African nations, a huge push has been made to protect Botswana’s natural wonders. From joining well-known organisations such as Tusk, to supporting the individual contributions of many of the lodges, there is plenty of opportunity to contribute to the welfare of the country. Take time to understand the importance of protecting the country for generations to come and meet with the experts on hand at your camp.
Botswana Field Notes
S a f ar i t o p p i c k
KALAHARI PLAINS CAMP
Some of the best summer wildlife viewing can be done at Kalahari Plains Camp - think black-maned lions and cheetah. This eco-conscious camp is certainly the place to be.
LOC AT I O N
WH Y WE LIKE IT
The camp is found in the
We love the Bushman
Central Kalahari Game
Walk that this camp offers.
Reserve, towards the centre
Led by camp staff, direct
of the country. This reserve
descendants from the
is the largest in Botswana
Basarwa tribe, here you’ll
and plays host to extensive
have the opportunity to
views of the immense pan.
learn the traditions and lifestyles of the various
Y O UR R O O M Rooms pay homage to local culture with tribal art and prints. Each has a screened but open wall that will allow you to survey the masterful landscape outside, and no expense is spared to ensure the utmost comfort. This includes solar-powered electricity and hot water, as well as insulated canvas walls and elegant hardwood floors.
local tribes.
Botswana Field Notes
EPIC BOSTWANA
The vast wilderness and changeable landscape in Botswana makes the country an ideal playground for any travellers looking for a thrill.
Read on to discover our favourite epic adventures across Botswana to set the heart racing.
Botswana Field Notes
TOP 3
EPIC
ADVENTURES
CY C LIN G IN TU LI B LO C K Off-road cycling along elephant tracks is an excursion not to be missed. This is the ideal way to explore the riverbanks and rocky landscape of the Northern Tuli Game Reserve. Man-made tracks are virtually non-existent, which adds to the thrill, and there’s nothing quite as exhilarating as cycling alongside exotic wildlife.
H I K I NG T H E TS ODI L O H I L L S
the local culture and spot
The site of ancient rock
It’s also in the Makgadikgadi
paintings, the Tsodilo Hills
Pans that you’ll witness the
have always been a place
second largest zebra and
of intrigue and hold a
wildebeest migration in
spiritual significance for the
Africa. One not to miss.
Hambukushi and Basarwa tribes. The best way to explore this UNESCO site is by foot, and guided treks can be taken to the top of the hills to look out across the vast plains below.
Q UAD B I K I NG I NMA K GA D I K G A D I Exploring the Makgadikgadi Pans by quad bike is adrenaline-inducing to say the least. Fossil beaches and majestic baobab trees will be your markers in this barren, lunar landscape; and there is plenty of opportunity to learn about
animals that have adapted to the harsh conditions too.
Botswana Field Notes
Safari top pick
JACK’S CAMP
Jack’s Camp is ideal for both the romantic and intrepid traveller. Reminiscent of the first camps set up by colonial explorers, the landscape is minimal, but the elegance is spectacular.
WH Y WE LIKE IT This is the perfect place to get back to basics and admire the splendour of
LOC AT I O N
Botswana. Whether you’re keen to quad bike to remote
Jack’s Camp sits on the
fossil beds or relax poolside,
edge of the Makgadikgadi
there are few camps quite as
Salt Pans, a former lake and
stunning as Jack’s Camp.
now a barren wilderness that sparkles in the sun. The tents of the camp are sheltered by desert palms in this mysterious and aweinspiring landscape.
Y O UR R O O M Tents here hark back to a bygone era, with magnificent bedsteads, exquisite rugs, and old-fashioned trunks filling the space. The mess tent is home to a small natural history museum and a tea tent plays host to some exceptional meals.
Botswana Field Notes
BEFORE YOU GO Essential facts to get you to Botswana and home again
W HE N T O G O Botswana is very much an all-year-round destination thanks to lodges now operating throughout the green season between November and April. May to October is the country’s most popular time to visit thanks to moderate temperatures and an abundance of wildlife, but whichever time you decide to go, you’ll enjoy spectacular scenery, exotic wildlife and incomparable luxury.
G E T T I NG T H E R E FR OM LO N D O N Flights from London to Maun take about 15hrs and include a stop in Johannesburg.
FR OM NE W YO RK Flights from New York to Maun take about 20hrs and include a stop in Johannesburg.
Botswana Field Notes
NOTES
Botswana Field Notes