Overwhelming game.Safari heaven for first timers
I was overwhelmed by the vast numbers of game and superb birdlife in Chobe, the last of the 4 National Parks we had visited during our 10 day wild camping safari trip.Well, it's the perennial river isn't it? The lifeline of water which sustains truly enormous herds of elephant, buffalo, zebra and provides the ideal environment for Malachite Kingfishers and Fish Eagles. And which of course brings day trippers in their thousands into this easily accessible Park. We came into Chobe via the Ngoma Gate and had previously been in Moremi and Savute, classic Parks with iconic landscapes. It was a shock to gradually find a one way road system as we approached the most popular part of the Park and to be jostling past so many other vehicles, packed with first timers , eager to tick off the star sightings. Not that anyone could be disappointed in that.If you only have a day to fit in a safari (though why why why?)then Chobe Riverfront is THE place to come.
It's not got the iconic African landscapes of the Delta or Moremi and it hasn't got that wild bush feel, but it packs such a punch in terms of animals that you can't fail to be impressed. For a first timer, it must be safari heaven. I love lion and on our first morning drive, a male and female sauntered lazily past our vehicle, almost within touching distance;a young male began calling further off then followed the pair up into the shrubbery to find shade.
And this is where, like all National Parks, it can be frustrating because the rules mean no off roading, so unlike Sabi Sand or other private concessions, you can't follow them; you can only sit and watch as they disappear out of sight, thrilled at the encounter as ever but wanting more.
We chose Mosu Safari Tours for our 10 day safari trip, an excellent operator who assigned us Custard as our guide/driver and Kilos as our cook, with LT as camp assistant.They made our trip, really first class guys. A testament to their expertise, both Custard and Kilos had been employed by the BBC while they filmed their documentary about the lion pride that had learned to take down elephant.Custard knew everything there was to know about the animals and got us some incredible sightings and Kilos' cooking is well known as the stuff of legend.
One of the most thrilling moments of the whole trip came as we left Chobe by the Kasane Gate; just 100 yards away, resting beside the main road ,we spotted a pack of wild dogs with several puppies, a superb sight.
We took the Sunset Cruise with Thebe River Camp, where we stayed for two nights and fortunately found ourselves with just two other fellow birdwatchers.
I didn't think there was much else to see to be honest after 9 days and 15 or so Game Drives but the view from the river was wonderful.And the birdlife was mesmerising, with malachite kingfishers the highlight.The river bets very busy and there are some big, crowded boats around so it may be worth checking how many fellow passengers there are,depending on what you want out of it.
Being in the boat also gets you closer to the elephants,as they seemed to me much calmer round these than the vehicles.We followed a mother and calf as they swam back to shore, the baby using his trunk like a periscope.A beautiful sight.
Thebe River Camp was first class, with a nice bar area, spotless showers and toilets and well maintained.We enjoyed our stay here very much,especially after the wild sites we'd been in the rest of the trip.No hyenas at night! The camp is well protected by electric fencing so it's very safe.
We did our trip in mid till late September and this time , for me, was just too hot.40C or 104F in the shade.Like being in an oven.Next time - Green Season!
IE
Review about Waterberg Plateau Park by Geraldine
The wildlife was more sparse on the Plateau but the views were stunning.
IE
A very dry, very warm, very dusty desert paradise
My 3-day stay in Etosha National Park was the highlight of my Namibian Trip so there was lots of animal activity around the watering holes, both day and night. The game drives were excellent with knowledgeable guides, excellent cook and comfortable tents. On each game drive there was a variety of animals but on one special day we came upon a large herd of elephants which included bulls and babies. Mingling with this herd were zebra, springbok, kudu and giraffes. but I enjoyed sitting at the watering hole viewing area watching the dramas unfold.
Review about Botswana by scotlandmac
I was a bit frustrated by the National Park rules on off roading and night drives.Using private concessions would get over this but they seem phenomenally expensive.
IE
Review about Namibia by Geraldine
Outside Etosha there is a great variety of wildlife. The beautiful red dunes splendid in the sunrise. Can drive for miles without seeing another vehicle.
US
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
5 Stars All Around !!
Ancient Wild was a great tour operator. Michael answered every last one of my questions leading up to trip via FB and was very patient explaining all the details. I normally am very OCD with my vacation planning, but Michael handled everything wonderfully! We spent 12 days touring Kenya and Tanzania and every suggestion and budget lodging was on point. Loved the culture, the experience, and beautiful beautiful Africa! Highly recommend you book with these guys! Very affordable and very customizable !
EG
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Very good
The drivers were nice and helpful. The accommodation was decent. The trip was well-organized. The tour is worth it, and of course Massai Mara is amazing.
'Forever cherishing the amazing experience with Nyathi Travel & Tours'
l had an amazing day courtesy of a voucher extended Nyathi Tours which will forever be a source of fond memories. The voucher was an awesome gift l got after winning Miss University of Zimbabwe 2015. Together with my friends, Nyathi Travel took us to Ngoma Kurira which is in Domboshava, 40km from Harare with a cheerful and extremely assured driver, Mr Zambezi. Upon arrival, the activities that we had included mountain climbing, site seeing with impecable views, exploration of caves that uncovered Zimbabwes history as potrayed through rock art and paintings presumed to originate from the stone age era. Not only was this refreshing but it was an enlightening experience, particularly learning the history of Zimbabwe through the art and paintings in caves accompanied by detailed commentary by our guide, who was ever present to address our curiosity. And of course not forgetting the delicious food provided! Thank you Nyathi Tours for the memories.
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
First Safari, best budget option!
We had an incredible time, our driver was incredible knowledgeable and our cook superb! We had some issues with a rain storm at our camps and the guys went beyond their duties to get us a warm room to sleep, best value for the money overall!! No way to have a better experience on my first safari, everything was great and according to what they described.
NL
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
An incredible experience richer with Bubezi Safaris.
Your enthusiasm, very high level of knowledge about the birds and the animals and your hospitality was amazing. A definite recommendation for anyone who wants a experience with a tailor-made safari. We will definitely come back one more time . We also have a review posted on your facebook page