5. Foreword
WELCOME TO A TRULY GREAT
AFRICAN DESTINATION
W
elcome to the seventh edition of
‘This is Botswana’, the annual guide
from the Hospitality & Tourism
Association of Botswana (HATAB).
I trust you find our publication comprehensive and informative about Botswana and the
many tourism-related services provided by
our diverse and energetic group of members.
Botswana is a truly great destination. Our
members aim to ensure that we retain our
hard-won reputation as a nation that not only
provides excellent value for money but also
puts the emphasis on quality.
highest standards of service, guiding, cuisine
ENVIRONMENT
Botswana has rightly chosen to put care of the
and accommodation.
VIBRANCY
environment and maintenance of our fantastic
heritage ahead of short-term factors. I believe
But, largely thanks to the continued vibrancy
this is the correct route for our nation to follow
of our economy, we have a second element
and, perhaps, for others to emulate.
to our hospitality sector, bing the meetings,
incentives, conference and exhibition (MICE),
In my opinion, our appeal is twofold. First,
this sector is centred in Gaborone, the capital
Botswana is a premier safari destination
city of Botswana. Gaborone attracts large
where our game-rich national parks and
numbers of business visitors and the city has
reserves are rightly acknowledged to be
excellent accommodation to meet their needs.
among Africa’s best-run. In particular HATAB
members in the safari sector offer the very
I invite you to visit Botswana and enjoy all
the wonderful sights and sounds the HATAB
members have to offer among others camps
and lodges, hotels, mobile safaris and air
charter. As we say in Serswana: Le amogwetswe (you are welcome).
An e-version of this publication is available on
the HATAB website (www.hatab.bw)
LILY RAKARONG
Chief Executive Officer
The Hospitality & Tourism Association of Botswana
www.this-is-botswana.com
3
6. Introduction
THE PERFECT AFRICAN
DESTINATION
B
otswana is one of Africa’s remarkable
success stories – a beacon of hope and
a shining example for others to follow.
It is also one of the most politically stable
and best governed countries in Africa and a
textbook case of a nation that has developed
and used its natural resources wisely.
PROPELLED
In a comparatively short space of time,
Botswana has propelled itself from one of
the world’s poorest countries to one with
an extraordinarily high standard of living.
This has all been achieved while adhering to
the highest democratic principles, in a place
where good standards of education and public
services are the norm and where the average
Motswana has been able to share in the
nation’s prosperity.
OUTSTRIPPING
Botswana has ranked among the world’s
fastest growing economies ever since the mid
1960s, outstripping the oil-rich Gulf States
over this same period. It is one of only three
countries worldwide – along with the Maldives
and Cabo Verde (Cape Verde) – to have moved
upwards from Least Developed Country
4
7. since the category was devised by the United
Nations over 40 years ago.
INFRASTRUCTURE
apparent in the tourism sector. Botswana’s
Botswana has invested in its infrastructure,
national parks and reserves are considered
building new roads and airports, and has
to be among the best-run in Africa and, with
sought a more active role in the downstream
almost half the country set aside for protec-
production and distribution of its biggest
tion, this is a huge area of land to manage.
natural asset, diamonds. Gaborone aims to be
a world centre for the processing, sorting and
The nation has taken far-reaching measures
marketing of diamonds.
to ensure that its wildlife is protected. There
are many species and the numbers continue
The nation’s diamond wealth has been chan-
to grow. It could be argued that Botswana
nelled sustainably, and this is particularly
has been too successful in some areas and its
www.this-is-botswana.com
5
8.
9. elephant population is a case in point. Herds
have grown significantly and Botswana and its
near neighbours now need to find a solution to
what has become a problem.
BEAUTY
Botswana has a stark natural beauty in its
landscapes, ranging from the compelling
Little wonder, then, that Botswana is such
desert scenery of the Kalahari to the unique
an attractive destination. But the govern-
wonders of the Okavango Delta, and from
ment has been careful not to overdo visitor
Chobe National Park – one of the best in Africa
numbers in a quest to rake in tourist dollars.
in terms of animal densities – to the ancient
On the contrary, Botswana prides itself on
rock paintings at Tsodilo – a Unesco World
a policy of quality not quantity. This is true
Heritage Site – and the fascinating ancient
when it comes to camp and lodge construc-
culture of the San.
tion, which is strictly limited, with tight
controls on environmental impact.
OPEN SPACES
Botswana is more than just endless open
spaces and great game viewing, however.
There is another side to the country that is
often overlooked by tourists flying into Maun
and Kasane in the north. This is a modern
and thriving nation. Nowhere is this more
apparent than in the capital, Gaborone, a
fast-growing city at the centre of the world’s
diamond industry, with broad highways,
gleaming high-rise buildings and glitzy
shopping malls.
In short, Botswana is a delightful mix of the
new, the conserved and the protected. In fact,
it’s just about the perfect African destination.
www.this-is-botswana.com
7
10. Mobile safaris
WHY MOBILE SAFARIS
HAVE A SPECIAL MAGIC
T
he Hospitality & Tourism
the truly extraordinary wildlife of
Association of Botswana
Botswana and its often unique land-
(HATAB) plays a crucial role
scape.
in the mobile safari sector.
These safaris have to be regulated
Mobile safaris are provided by more
to ensure strict conservation of
than 60 members of the Association.
Botswana’s protected areas. Camp-
The vast majority of these are based
sites are officially designated and
in and around Maun and Kasane
mobile safaris operators cannot just
and within easy distance of the 36
pitch a tent wherever or whenever
Luxury – This generally involves a
official campsites, from the game-rich
they please. In fact, official HATAB-
support truck or ‘go ahead’ vehicle
Moremi to the wild and remote open
run sites are pre-booked months, even
that sets up the tents and the site
spaces of the Kalahari to the south.
years, in advance. To ensure privacy
before the guests arrive in their
and to preserve the fragile environ-
game-viewing vehicle. Guests can
The HATAB-run sites are located in
ment, campsites are reserved for just
expect to see a fire lit, welcoming
parks and reserves:
one operator at a time.
drinks, uniformed staff and, probably,
the aroma of freshly cooked food
Chobe National Park – 23 sites,
comprising –
EQUIPMENT
emanating from the bush kitchen with
an evening of fine dining ahead.
• Riverfront (Ihala): nine sites
The operator may bring some equip-
• Nogatshaa: five sites
ment to the site such as showers and
Comfortable – This is much more
• Savuti: four sites
toilets; but this must be removed on
basic, with maybe a chair on which
• Zwei-Zwei: five sites.
completion of the visit and the area
to sit and a glass of something as a
returned to the same condition in
welcome to the campsite. There may
which it was found.
be a hurriedly prepared fire, but there
Moremi Game Reserve – 14 sites,
would be no advance support vehicle
comprising –
• Moremi East (Khwai): five sites
Because campsites are regulated in
and the camp would be erected on
• Moremi West (including Xakanaxa,
this way, mobile operators tend to
arrival after a day of game viewing.
Third Bridge, Mboma Island,
select a few locations as part of an
Bodumatau and Xini Lagoon):
itinerary, staying perhaps three or
Budget – There are even fewer refine-
nine sites.
four nights at each site before moving
ments at budget level, but staff would
on to the next. Each site is used as a
still be on hand to cook food and erect
Nxai Pan National Park: four sites,
base for game drives and in much the
the tents.
comprising –
same way as if guests were staying at
• Nxai Pan: three sites
a permanent camp or lodge.
Participation – This is for those fit,
active and willing enough to cook
• Baines Baobabs: one site.
Not all mobile safaris are alike,
their own food and erect their own
Central Kalahari Game Reserve – four
however, and depending on budget
tents on arrival and then take down
sites, comprising –
and preference, guests have a range
the tents before moving on to the
• Deception Valley: three sites
of options, from super-luxurious to
next location. These participation
• Letiahau: one site.
back-to-basics, with some alterna-
safaris are especially popular with
tives in between. They differ from one
young people. Many feel it gives them
Mobile safaris offer visitors a highly
another in terms of cost and fall into
a greater insight in terms of being at
enjoyable and flexible way to see
four broad categories:
one with Africa and its wildlife.
8
12. National Parks
WORLD-CLASS GAME VIEWING IN
A LOW-IMPACT ENVIRONMENT
B
otswana is not only a vast country
Moreover, Botswana prides itself on being
– covering more than 580,000 sq
a low-impact destination, more concerned
km – but also one of the world’s least
with strict conservation than pure visitor
densely populated. About 70 per cent of the
numbers, and with tight controls over lodge
country is formed by the Kalahari Desert,
and camp building and extraordinarily high
which extends across Botswana’s central belt.
standards of wildlife management.
An astonishing 37 per cent of the nation’s
total land area – equivalent to a country the
FOREFRONT
size of New Zealand – has been set aside as
The Department of Wildlife & National Parks
national parks, wildlife reserves or wildlife
(DWNP) has been at the forefront of
management areas.
Botswana’s remarkable conservation record.
In fact, it could be said that Botswana has been
In contrast to some other destinations,
too successful with its conservation efforts. For
this lack of population has largely resulted
example, there are now thought to be about
in an absence of human-wildlife conflict
120,000 elephants in Botswana – the world’s
with space enough for everyone and room
largest elephant population – whereas 50 years
to create some of Africa’s largest and best
ago there were just 8,000. Now the problem is
wildlife reserves.
one of too many rather than too few.
10
13. Perhaps surprisingly, Botswana has just four
Linyanti Swamp: at about 900 sq km, this
national parks but several reserves. That
area is contiguous with the Selinda Reserve
small number is more than offset, however, by
and Namibia’s Mamili National Park. Linyati
their sheer size, by the quality of the visitor
is hard to reach, but worth the effort. Its two
experience – and, of course, by the truly spec-
rivers, the Linyanti and the Kwado, help
tacular game-viewing:
create the marshy landscape.
Chobe National Park: famous for its large animal
Mashatu Game Reserve: located in the
concentrations. In fact, Chobe and its adjacent
Northern Tuli Game Reserve bordering South
reserves probably contain up to 50,000
Africa and famed for its Pete’s Pond waterhole.
elephants – easily Africa’s biggest population.
Mokolodi Nature Reserve: more of a sancKgalagadi Transfrontier National Park:
tuary than a reserve, like Khutse Mokolodi,
straddles the border with South Africa. This
this privately administered reserve is close
extensive park covers a total area of about
to Gaborone and covers an area of just 30 sq
38,000 sq km, of which about 75 per cent is
km. The reserve is well stocked with animals,
within Botswana and was originally known as
including white rhino.
Gemsbok National Park.
Moremi Wildlife Reserve: a well-run area
SALT PAN
Makgadikgadi Pans National Park: a large
of about 5,000 sq km close to Maun on the
eastern side of the Okavango with good animal
concentrations.
salt pan, or series of salt pans, in north-east
Botswana. It is a national park because of the
Okavango Delta: Botswana’s greatest natural
uniqueness of the landscape rather than its
feature and the world’s largest inland delta.
wildlife.
Savuti Channel/Savute Marsh (10,878 sq
Nxai Pan National Park: linked to Makgadik-
km): the Savuti Channel is an erratic water
gadi Pan National Park and, as its name
course that began to flow again in 2010 and
suggests, a large salt pan.
may stop again at any moment. The channel
feeds the Savute Marsh, particularly rich in
Botswana’s reserves, some of which are
game at certain times of the year.
contiguous, vary greatly and from those that
are essentially national parks in all but name
to areas that are little more than a wildlife
centre close to an urban area:
Central Kalahari Game Reserve: the world’s
second-largest protected area of its kind,
covering 52,800 sq km.
Khutse Game Reserve: popular with visitors
because it is close to Gaborone, but the wildlife
viewing is underwhelming.
www.this-is-botswana.com
11
14. Gaborone shopping
MALLS GALORE MAKE GABORONE
A PARADISE FOR SHOPAHOLICS
I
t may not yet be Dubai, but Gaborone
is fast emerging as the place to shop in
southern Africa.
Not a year goes by, it seems, without some
fabulous new mall opening in Gaborone. And
such is the size and scale of the city’s retail
parks that shoppers are now being drawn
from neighbouring countries to Botswana’s
growing range of upmarket stores and
opulent malls.
The latest offering, the Airport Junction
Shopping Centre, opened in 2012. As its
name suggests, the new mall is located in the
north of the city, close to Sir Seretse Khama
International, and has an impressive 50,000
square metres of fully enclosed retail space.
OUTLETS
Estimated to have cost about BWP 385
side the city’s railway station (these days
million, Airport Junction is an interesting mix
there is only a twice-weekly passenger service
of high fashion outlets, classy international
to Bulawayo in Zimbabwe) so the mall gets
brands and, of course, an anchor supermarket
little business from rail passengers. But it is
and department store.
a busy part of the city. In fact, driving to and
from the mall can be tricky owing to traffic
Airport Junction opened for business just six
congestion at certain times of the day.
months after the BWP350 million, 31,400
square metre Rail Park Mall, located along-
TARGETED
In addition to the citizens of Gaborone, developers of the new mall have targeted shoppers
from outlying areas, most of the tenants at the
mall being retailers.
The open food court covers an area of 2,000
square metres
Reflecting its location and the everyday needs
of its visitors, there is a Food Lovers Market,
Choppies Hypermarket, Debonairs, KFC,
Chicken Licken and furniture stores like Ellerines and Beares.
12
15. Food Lovers Market and Choppies are the
expedition. This is reflected in the outlets
anchor stores of the mall. The mall’s upper
on offer, such as a supermarket and a fast
deck is reserved for office accommodation. A
food outlet.
direct overhead pedestrian bridge has been
constructed across the railway station for
Game City had previously set the standard
access to the mall. Stalls in the car park are
and still does. Despite the recent competition,
set aside for informal traders.
this is still probably Gaborone’s most visually
impressive and largest mall.
OPENING
River Walk provides a different kind of envi-
Rail Park’s opening followed two other and
ronment, one that extends into the evening.
smaller shopping malls at Sebele along the
River Walk’s unique selling point are its food
Gaborone-Francistown highway. Uncovered
and its delightful night-time ambience. The
and laid out on two levels in an ‘L’ shape,
mall still has plenty of stores, but it seems
Sebele is more a convenience destination
visitors like to eat and then shop here rather
than a place for a day-long shopping
than the other way around.
www.this-is-botswana.com
13
16. Conferences
GABORONE WINS TOP
STATUS IN MEETINGS SECTOR
I
n a competitive market with some well
facilities, the city is well able to host major,
established players, Gaborone has come
continent-wide conferences and exhibitions.
to the fore as one of southern Africa’s
leading convention cities. In addition, the city
is a natural location for many of the country’s
CAPACITY
home-grown shows and exhibitions that now
At the same time, Gaborone now has sufficient
attract visitors from outside Botswana.
hotel room capacity, with a range of categories
to suit all budgets, from luxury five-star prop-
Gaborone has a strong appeal for conference
erties to comfortable and often family-run
and incentive organisers, offering a range of
lodges and guesthouses. Good food is widely
sophisticated venues, the latest in audio-visual
available, too, with a range of internation-
aids and equipment and top-class banqueting
ally recognised chain restaurants and those
arrangements. With this superb range of
offering the very best in haute cuisine.
14
17. Gaborone also scores highly in terms of its
proximity to Johannesburg, its comparatively
easy entry formalities for visitors from across
Africa, its excellent security and its great
spouse programmes with top-notch shopping.
There is scope, too, for exciting add-on events
and holidays; and the city is also a gateway
for outdoor adventure and safari-based teambuilding events.
Gaborone’s attractiveness as an international
an altogether different scale from GICC. The
conference destination is further enhanced by
main conference hall, the Ditshupo, can seat
good regional air connections, with a wider-
10,000 delegates while the smaller Boipuso
than-ever selection of direct flights by the
can accommodate up to 2,000 in theatre style.
national carrier, Air Botswana, and foreign
There are three smaller conference rooms for
airlines such as Kenya Airways.
up to 500 and even 13 break-out rooms for
use as boardrooms for small-scale conferences
CONFERENCE
and seminars.
Some of Gaborone’s largest hotels have
The venue is fully provided with security
separate conference facilities and much of
and media facilities, ample parking and an
their business is geared to this particular
excellent à la carte restaurant. The Pavilion
market. For example, the Peermont Walmont
pub and restaurant has good food; the bar
Hotel, which forms part of the Grand Palm
area can be used for both formal and casual
on Molepole Road, is located alongside the
meetings; and the terrace offers an alterna-
Gaborone International Convention Centre
tive place to gather.
(GICC), a truly world-class meeting place.
Centrepiece of the GICC is the 1,550 square
TRADE SHOWS
metre Tsodilo Suite, which when used as a
The Centre is the venue for the nation’s
single venue can accommodate 1,040 guests
biggest and most prestigious national trade
in a banquet set-up, over 1,800 in cinema style
shows, such as the Botswana Consumer Fair,
and 1,550 for a cocktail reception. In fact,
Global Expo Botswana, the ITEX information
the Tsodilo Suite offers six configurations –
technology exhibition and the FOBEX food and
anything from banquets and conferences to
beverage exhibition.
concerts and major sporting events. Other
suites within the GICC cater for smaller parties.
Mention must also be made of Maun and
Kasane. These frontier-type towns may seem
For really big events, fairs and shows, there
a long way from anywhere, but they attract
is the Botswana Conference & Exhibition
many locally based conferences and meetings
Centre. Located close to the city centre on
from organisers who want a non-Gaborone
an impressive 50-hectare site and owned
venue with exceptional add-ons in terms of
jointly by the government and Botswana
game viewing. In fact, HATAB always chooses
Development Corporation, this facility is on
Maun for its annual general meeting.
www.this-is-botswana.com
15
23. Air Botswana
NATIONAL AIRLINE PLAYS
A KEY ROLE IN BRINGING
VISITORS TO BOTSWANA
B
otswana is an outstanding tourism
and business destination. Air
Botswana, the national airline, brings
visitors to this special part of Africa from
Johannesburg, Cape Town, Harare and Lusaka.
Passengers arriving on long-haul flights in
Johannesburg can readily transfer to Air
Botswana for onward jet flights direct to Maun,
on the edge of the Okavango Delta, or direct to
Kasane, gateway to Chobe National Park.
Air Botswana operates jet shuttle flights from
Cape Town to Maun and from Cape Town to
Johannesburg to Kasane, gateway to Chobe
Gaborone, the Botswana capital. Only Air
National Park, noted for its lions and its large
Botswana links these two premier tourism
concentration of elephants.
destinations.
Part of the great sanctuary is on the Chobe
DELTA
River and the dramatic riverfront is rich in
birds and animals. On a sunset cruise, visitors
The vast Okavango Delta, a protected World
can watch animals coming down to drink, with
Heritage site, is a wild and hauntingly beau-
a chance to see a string of elephants crossing
tiful place, with a myriad channels, reedbeds,
the wide river. The river has a large population
oxbow lakes and palm-fringed lagoons. The
of hippos and crocodiles and a prolific birdlife.
delta is rich in wildlife with an extraordinary
number and diversity of animals and birds.
REWARDING
Another remarkable river is the Chobe, on
A game drive from a riverfront lodge deep into
Botswana’s northern border with Namibia.
the national park is also a rewarding way to
Air Botswana operates direct flights from
see the wildlife.
Air Botswana operates and maintains a fleet
of Avro RJ and British Aerospace 146 jet
aircraft, with ATR 72-500 and ATR 42-500
turboprops for the shorter routes.
The airline’s busiest route is between Gaborone
and Johannesburg. There are also direct
services from Francistown to Johannesburg,
Gaborone to Harare and Gaborone to Lusaka.
Domestic flights link Gaborone with Francistown, Maun and Kasane.
www.this-is-botswana.com
21
24.
25. Peermont Hotels
GROUP OFFERS EXCELLENT
CHOICE OF PROPERTIES
IN BOTSWANA
P
eermont has an extensive portfolio of
hotels, casinos, convention centres,
restaurants, bars and other sports
and entertainment facilities. The company
operates 14 properties in Africa, including
five in Botswana.
THE GRAND PALM HOTEL
CASINO CONVENTION RESORT, GABORONE
The Grand Palm is in the grand tradition of
Botswana hospitality. Located just 15 minutes
from the city centre and international airport,
it offers luxury accommodation, dazzling
entertainment, an exciting casino, five diverse
restaurants, a luxury spa and a world-class
188-room business hotel providing a superior
conference facility, the Gaborone Interna-
level of comfort. The hotel offers a full range
tional Convention Centre.
of services and facilities for senior executive
business travellers, premium leisure travel-
PEERMONT WALMONT
lers, conference delegates and tour groups.
AT THE GRAND PALM RESORT, GABORONE
The five-star Peermont Walmont Hotel at
PEERMONT METCOURT INN
The Grand Palm is a contemporary, deluxe,
AT THE GRAND PALM RESORT, GABORONE
The Peermont Metcourt Inn is a modern
at a glance..
three-star, select services hotel where guests
• World-class gaming, lodging and
convention facilities
can decide what they need and pay nothing
extra. This hotel offers cosy, comfortable and
• Casinos
affordable accommodation for business and
• Well appointed conference rooms
leisure travellers alike.
PEERMONT MONDIOR, GABORONE
The four-star Mondior, with its ‘African chic’ style,
has the ambience of a boutique hotel. Accommodation consists of 67 stylish rooms. Guests can
unwind at the pool, relax in the lounge or dine at
the nearby News Café restaurant.
PEERMONT METCOURT HOTEL, FRANCISTOWN
The three-star Peermont Metcourt Hotel offers
excellent value for money. It is a select-service
hotel offering modern, affordable comfort and
quality service. With 53 rooms, this newly
refurbished hotel is ideal for stopover tourists
and overnight business travellers.
www.this-is-botswana.com
23
26.
27. Botswana Development Corporation
A RELIABLE PARTNER FOR
ENTERPRISES AND FOR CITIZENS
B
otswana Development Corporation
Ltd (BDC) was established in 1970
as the country’s main agency for
commercial and industrial development. The
corporation is controlled by a board of directors appointed by the Minister of Finance and
Development Planning.
BDC invests in a wide range of projects in
three divisions: Agribusiness and Services,
Industry and Property.
SERVICES
The Agribusiness and Services division covers
agriculture, hotels, tourism and financial
services; the Industry division embraces
construction, textiles, food and beverages, and
at a glance..
furniture; and the Property division is divided
• Invests in a wide range of projects
into commercial, hotel, residential and indus-
• Botswana’s main agency for
commercial and industrial development
trial portfolios.
In the Agribusiness and Services division,
• Duel listed on Botswana and
Johannesburg stock exchanges
BDC is involved in such businesses as Talana
Farms, Cresta Marakanelo, Gaborone Private
contribution to development, economic diversifi-
Hospital, Information Trust Company and
cation and citizen empowerment and treble the
Investec Holdings.
BDC balance sheet by 2015.”
The Industry division includes major enter-
BDC has made impressive returns over its 40
prises such as Kwena Rocla, Lobatse Clay
years of existence. The corporation divested
Works, Sechaba Brewery Holdings, Kgalagadi
29 per cent of its shareholding in Cresta
Soap Industries and Abe’s Furniture.
Marakanelo through listing to the public.
It also consolidated its high value proper-
PROJECTS
ties into a special purpose vehicle, Letlole
La Rona, which was then listed in the stock
A key upcoming project for the Property
market. BDC also disposed of all its invest-
division is the Faiscape Precinct, which is
ment in PPC Ltd, a dual listed company on the
expected to be completed by the end of 2014.
Botswana and Johannesburg stock exchanges.
BDC’s has defined its aim as: “To invest in mega
BDC has adopted ISO standard 9001:2008 to
projects, primarily in the areas of communica-
benchmark its quality management system,
tion, transportation, infrastructure development,
its approach to customer satisfaction and its
energy and agriculture, that will enhance its
handling of complaints and feedback.
www.this-is-botswana.com
25
28.
29. Phakalane Golf Estate Hotel
ELEGANT ACCOMMODATION
ON A PREMIER GOLF ESTATE
L
ocated in the heart of Botswana’s
premier golf estate, only 15 km from
the centre of Gaborone, the Phaka-
lane Golf Estate Hotel provides elegant and
spacious luxury accommodation with firstrate facilities.
A variety of accommodation is available at
this four-star hotel. Built in a modern style,
it contains 80 rooms, all decorated to a high
standard. The hotel also has the Eagle’s Nest
Villa, with beautiful views of the golf course.
There is a choice of six four-bedroom units
and six three-bedroom units. Each comes with
en-suite bedrooms, a spacious lounge and a
bathrooms, two parking bays, a fully equipped
kitchenette as well as a patio with braai, a
kitchen, a patio with braai, laundry facilities
double garage, a parking area, satellite TV and
and a communal swimming pool.
air conditioning.
Guests can also choose to stay in the Phaka-
CUISINE
lane Golf Chalets. These consist of eight
Fine dining is available at Drotsky’s Restaurant
three-bedroom self-catering units, perfect
on the first floor of the clubhouse. External
for businessmen and golfers. Each unit has
seating is provided in the summer. In addition,
spacious luxury accommodation with two
Feathers Halfway House and Oriental Cuisine
serves breakfast and light meals during the day,
at a glance..
• Four star hotel
• International standard 18-hole
golf course
• Fully equipped conference facilities
• Fine dining available in Drotsky’s
Restaurant
while in the evening it offers delicious oriental
cuisine and a sushi bar. Guests can also enjoy a
relaxing drink in the cocktail bar.
The hotel has a wide range of facilities
including internet connectivity, a coffee bar,
a health spa (to be introduced soon) and, of
course, the international standard 18-hole
championship golf course, designed by the
DDV Design Group and completed in 2002.
The pro shop has full retail services, including
hire of clubs. All leading brands are stocked.
There is a driving range, too.
Phakalane also has fully equipped conference
facilities for up to 300 delegates. In addition to
formal dinners, barbecues and theme dinners,
this is a perfect venue for weddings.
www.this-is-botswana.com
27
30.
31. Flying Mission Services
`FLYING DOCTOR' IS NOW A
MAJOR AIR SERVICES PROVIDER
F
lying Mission (FM) has been providing
aviation services for Botswana and its
people since 1980.
FM began as an air ambulance provider
founded by Dr Malcolm McArthur and his wife
Gudrun, who started the flying doctor service
so that all Batswana could have access to
health care.
BRANCHING OUT
As Botswana has developed and grown, so has
FM. Specifically, through the company Flying
Mission Services (FMS), the organisation has
branched into all areas of aviation services
including:
FMS continues to develop its community
• Corporate and tourism air charter
projects by providing funds to Flying Mission
• Air ambulance services
Care Ministries, the non-profit-making arm of
• Aircraft maintenance for all clients,
the FM family, where the main focus is on life
corporate and private
skills training and capacity building.
• Aircraft maintenance engineering training.
In order to continue providing top quality
TRAINING
aviation services to southern Africa, FMS has
In addition, FMS is proud to have established
begun operating the brand BlueSky Airways,
a fully Botswana accredited Aircraft Main-
which operates the first-ever Boeing 737-200
tenance Engineer Training School (AMETS)
to be registered in Botswana. The Boeing 737
in Gaborone. FMS assists the training school
series is said to be the best-selling jet airliner
by providing air crew to teach and train the
in the history of aviation. With this aircraft,
students, and also by offering maintenance
BlueSky Airways can provide Botswana with
internships for AMETS graduates. At the
a better-than-ever choice of air travel.
training school, students are prepared for
immediate hands-on deployment in aircraft
at a glance..
• Operating in Botswana
• Air ambulance services
• Aircraft Maintenance Training School
• BlueSky Airways offer air travel
choice
maintenance shops and line services.
Flying Mission operates in Botswana out of
bases in Gaborone and Maun. The organisation has a fleet of aircraft covering half a
million kilometres each year. Flying Mission
provides a rapid link between major centres
and distant, inaccessible areas bringing
physical and spiritual help to people in need.
www.this-is-botswana.com
29
32.
33. Mack Air
RESPECTED AIR CHARTER FIRM
OPERATES VERSATILE FLEET
M
ack Air is a well established and
respected air charter company
operating in northern Botswana.
It was established in 1994 by Stuart and Lara
Mackay, both of whom had been working in
the Okavango for a number of years.
Mack Air operates 19 fixed-wing aircraft
SERVICES
with 20 pilots and a total complement of over
Operating opposite Maun International
50 personnel. The company’s versatile fleet
Airport, the company offers a range of
enables it to schedule the appropriate type of
services:
aircraft for the needs of each customer.
• Game lodge and camp transfers for tourists
• Medical evacuations as and when needed
• Private and business charter
• Scenic flights over the Okavango Delta
• Supply runs to and from game lodges.
From its base in Maun, gateway to the Okavango,
the company serves destinations throughout
Botswana and neighbouring countries as far as
Lanseria Airport Johannesburg, Victoria Falls
and Windhoek (Namibia).
SKL Camps
GROUP OFFERS CAMPSITES
IN PRIME LOCATIONS
T
he SKL group has four campsites in
NORTH GATE (KHWAI), Moremi Game Reserve
Botswana. The company derives its
The flood plains of the Khwai River are home to
name from the initial letters of the
a wide variety of animals and birds. SKL offers
Savuti, Khwai and Linyanti camps.
10 self-sufficient camping plots, each with a
direct water supply and cooking area.
SAVUTI, Chobe National Park
Savuti is famous for its excellent game activi-
LINYANTI, Chobe National Park
ties. Situated along the Savuti Channel, SKL has
Linyanti is known for healthy populations of
14 campsites each with a braai stand, fireplace
predators, particularly lion and hyena. SKL
and a water stand pipe. The abundance of
has five camp plots in Linyanti with clean and
birdlife and wildlife such as elephants and honey
at a glance..
• Campsites in prime
location
• Full ablution facilities
• Campsites in four
major game reserves
modern facilities.
• Solar lights, hot
and cold running
showers and flushing
toilets
badgers are common in the campsites.
KUMAGA, Makgadikgadi National Park
Known for the great migration of wildebeest
and zebra, Kumaga also has flamingos and
a resident population of rhino. SKL has nine
camp plots in Kumaga.
www.this-is-botswana.com
31
34.
35. Maun Lodge
ROOMS AND CHALETS IN A
RIVERSIDE SETTING
L
ocated on the Okavango Delta, only 4
TV, room service and laundry services. The 10
km from Maun International Airport
deluxe riverfront rooms and two presidential
and 2.5 km from the village centre,
suites have private verandas. For those on a
Maun Lodge offers luxury hotel accommoda-
budget, the 12 thatched chalets, also air condi-
tion and chalets perfectly situated for both
tioned and with en-suite facilities, represent
business and leisure travellers.
Guests can enjoy a relaxing drink in the Pygmy
Thamalakane River. All 30 rooms are fully air
Goose Bar, while international and traditional
conditioned with en-suite bathroom, satellite
• Air conditioned
rooms
excellent value for money.
Maun Lodge is nestled on the banks of the
at a glance..
cuisine is available in the à la carte restaurant.
• Conference
facilities
Maun Lodge has a variety of conference facilities. There is seating for up to 350 delegates
and all conference rooms are fully equipped.
Conference packages are also available,
including accommodation and catering.
Lansmore Masa Square
LUXURY BUSINESS HOTEL
IN A CENTRAL LOCATION
L
ansmore Masa Square is a businessfirst luxury hotel that redefines the
hospitality experience of business and
leisure travellers in Botswana. The hotel is
committed to establishing luxury in Gaborone’s hospitality sector, shedding greater light
on the kind of service offering that guests can
experience and the kind of lifestyle that goes
hand in hand with this.
The hotel lies in the heart of Gaborone’s new
COMMUNITY
at a glance..
• Central business
district location
• Luxury hotel
dedicated to
community
central business district, cascading into the
piazza of Masa Centre. It is uniquely posi-
At the same time, Lansmore Masa Square
tioned, both literally and figuratively, to raise
is dedicated to bettering the community in
the bar of the service, cuisine and sense of
which it resides, investing in the growth and
luxury and convenience that Batswana expe-
development of Botswana and in the future of
rience, a kind of luxury previously unknown
the nation as a whole.
to Gaborone.
www.this-is-botswana.com
33
36.
37. Sunbeam Hotel
CITIZEN RESORT OFFERS GOOD
CHOICE OF ACCOMMODATION
L
ocated in Mogoditshane, about 7 km
rooms with double bed and minibar; clas-
from Gaborone, the Sunbeam Hotel is a
sical king/executive rooms with a king-sized
wholly owned citizen resort enterprise.
bed and minibar; classical standard suite
with double bed and minibar; and sharing
The hotel is a three-storey building with
deluxe rooms with two single beds. Individual
upstairs bar and balcony. It has 23 modern air
rooms come with telephone, TV, free wireless
conditioned rooms, plus a spacious reception
internet access and electronic safe.
room, a terrace balcony and a restaurant.
Accommodation consists of standard single
Guests can also enjoy the Snag Restaurant
and on-site bar. The Sunbeam Hotel also has
a range of conference facilities available,
including a conference package, conference
hire, projector hire and balcony hire as well
as an outside catering team who can provide
morning tea, lunch, dinner, afternoon tea and
a full English breakfast.
Thamalakane River Lodge
BEAUTIFUL LODGE IN
AN IDYLLIC SETTING
T
Maun and en route to the famous Moremi
Friendly staff can arrange special activity
Game Reserve.
programmes tailored to the specific inter-
hamalakane River Lodge is a rambling
safari lodge set on the banks of the
Thamalakane River, just 19 km from
ests of guests. Scenic flights are available on
Blessed with an exceptional location, the lodge
request. Other facilities include a pool and
takes full advantage of the serene riverbank
conference facilities.
views. There are 18 en-suite stone chalets,
some with private splash pools, positioned in
the shade of the riverine forest.
RESTAURANT
The lodge’s magnificent à la carte restaurant
at a glance..
All chalets and common areas have terraces
is renowned for its high standard of cuisine
• Wonderful views
which take advantage of the serene 180-degree
and service, appealing to Maun’s elite as well
• Tailormade activity
programmes
view of the riverbanks. All rooms have tea and
as to leisure visitors. There is an extensive
coffee stations, ceiling fans and mosquito nets.
wine list and a varied food menu.
www.this-is-botswana.com
35
38. Avis Botswana
AFFORDABLE AND CONVENIENT
A
vis began operating in Botswana in
at a glance..
1974 and now has four branches,
represented throughout the country.
• Four branches
throughout
Botswana
With its headquarters at Gaborone Airport,
• Impressive choice
of vehicles
making it the only car rental firm
Avis also has stations in Francistown, Maun
and in Kasane, where it operates from the
airport to accommodate clients as they fly in.
Botswana to be connected to the International
Avis Wizard computer network for instant
Bookings and reservations are made simple with
confirmations and bookings.
a fast and easy-to-use online booking system.
Alternatively, customers can call a branch and
With a fleet of modern vehicles, customers can
speak to a team member, who can answer any
choose a car that best suits their needs From
questions and offer helpful travel advice.
people carriers to small five-door cars, there
is something to suite everyone. For leisure
Avis is ideally positioned to cater for all sectors
travellers, the range includes multi-seat mini-
of the travel market and has the infrastructure
buses as well as 4x4 vehicles equipped with
to provide the best possible service to clients.
long-range fuel tanks. All vehicles are well
Unbeatable modern technology enables Avis
maintained and regularly serviced.
39. Cresta Hotels
GREAT CHOICE OF HOTELS IN
A WIDE RANGE OF LOCATIONS
C
resta is easily Botswana’s largest
hotel group in terms of bed capacity
and its properties are the most widely
spread geographically. Within Botswana,
Cresta operates nine hotels and one resort.
The group’s flagship property is the 116-room
Mowana Safari Lodge in Kasane, a perfect
base for exploring Chobe National Park. Gaborone’s 160-room Cresta Lodge, just 2 km from
the city centre, is convenient for business.
Even more centrally located is the 93-room
Cresta President Hotel, perfect for those
Phikwe, gateway to the Tuli Block, famous for
visiting Gaborone on business or to attend
its abundant wildlife.
a conference, seminar or trade show. Most
government ministries are just a short walk
The 51-room Cresta Botsalo Hotel is located in
from the hotel.
the town of Palapye, which lies in the hot, dry
expanse between Gaborone and Francistown.
The newly completed Cresta Mahalapye
Hotel, a three-star property with 64 rooms,
With 96 rooms, the four-star Cresta Thapama
is conveniently situated on the A1 north-
Hotel is the largest in Francistown and a
south highway. All superior rooms come with
natural meeting place for those on business
en-suite bathroom, DSTV, private air condi-
or passing through Botswana’s second-largest
tioning, direct-dial telephone and minibar.
commercial centre.
The three-star, 52-room Cresta Bosele Hotel
is located in the fast-growing town of Selebi-
FINEST
Perhaps the best located of the group’s proper-
at a glance..
• Nine properties in Botswana
• Excellent choice of locations
• Exceptional service
• Impressive conferencing products.
ties is the 105-room Cresta Marang Gardens
Hotel, just a few minutes from Francistown, in
one of the finest natural locations in Botswana.
In Maun, the 51-room Cresta Riley’s Hotel,
known simply as Riley’s, offers an established
base from which to explore the wonders of
northern Botswana. Located on the banks
of the slow-moving Thamalakane River, it is
a perfect getaway location for work or play
in peaceful surroundings and for safaris to
Moremi National Park.
Cresta Hotels also owns properties in Zambia
and Zimbabwe, while the group’s head office is
in Johannesburg, South Africa.
www.this-is-botswana.com
37
40. Gaborone Sun
ELEGANT HOTEL OFFERS PERFECT
ANTIDOTE TO CITY BUSTLE
L
ocated in the Botswana capital, the
Gaborone Sun Hotel, Casino and
Conference Centre offers a homely
ambience to offset the bustle of the city, with
soft African-hued furnishings and an air of
sophistication.
Dating from the 1970s, the hotel has
196 rooms which have been extensively
refurbished. There are 38 air conditioned
luxury rooms with king-sized beds, en-suite
bathroom, minibar, safe, satellite TV,
universal adaptor socket (220 volts), telephone and hairdryer included as standard.
There are also paraplegic rooms, a luxury
paraplegic room, three suites and a sump-
can be taken in the Conservatory and Pool
tuous presidential suite.
Terrace where the tranquil and relaxing
surroundings are just as enjoyable as the
At Mahogany’s Restaurant, tastefully
refreshments.
decorated with natural wood and sepia photographs of Africa’s past, guests can sample the
delicious menu in sophisticated and elegant
CHOICE
surroundings. For a less formal meal, the
Residents also have a choice of four bars for a
Savuti Grill serves English and Continental
refreshing drink. The bustling Slots Cocktail
breakfast and offers an extensive buffet and
Lounge offers live entertainment, while the
carvery for lunch and dinner. Light snacks
Pool Bar has a tranquil garden setting and
serves cocktails and other drinks from 10 am
at a glance..
• Premium casino
• Conferencing & meetings
• Gym, tennis & squash courts
• Child care & children’s activities
to 11 pm. The Casino Walk-up Bar, which is
open 24 hours, can be found in the smoking
section of the casino and is exclusive to table
and slot players. The Casino Bar, next to the
slot, offers live entertainment.
The Gaborone Sun is located next to The
Gaborone Golf Club. The first tee box is less
than five minutes’ walk from the hotel reception and the hotel can arrange tee-off times
and book golf carts for guests. The hotel has
a wide range of facilities including a fully
equipped gym, squash courts, a casino, floodlit
tennis courts, a swimming pool and a golf
course nearby. The hotel can also provide
extensive and fully equipped conferencing and
meeting facilities.
38
41. The Botswana Tourism Organisation
MARKETING BOTSWANA
AS A DESTINATION OF CHOICE
T
he Botswana Tourism Organisation was
set up by the government to market
tourist products and grade and classify
tourist accommodation as well as to promote
investment in the tourism sector.
With great success, the organisation is focused
on providing high standards and tourism
strategies that exceed customer expectations
as well as building customer confidence internationally.
INFORMATION
Its stated aim is ‘to develop Botswana into
a unique preferred tourism destination of
choice, in order to increase the sector’s
contribution to the nation’s economic growth’.
As part of its efforts to reach this goal, the
at a glance..
Botswana Tourism Organisation is constantly
• Ecotourism strategies
expanding and promoting the international
• Visitor information
image of Botswana.
A good example is the organisation’s website,
• International promotion
• Useful website
which contains just about everything that
potential visitors need to know. The website
Dedicated to preserving the heritage and envi-
gives an insight into what’s on offer in
ronment of Botswana, the organisation has
Botswana as well as providing useful travel
established several conservation policies and
information and advice. The website even
ecotourism strategies to ensure that tourism
suggests a list of books to read for those
is sustainable for its inhabitants and future
visiting the country.
generations while still contributing meaningfully to the national economy.
COMPETITIVE
Although relatively new in its development,
the Botswana Tourism Organisation has
already proved a well-run and fully functioning
organisation, one that will continue to serve
as a competitive front-runner in promoting
Botswana as a destination of choice.
www.botswanatourism.co.bw
www.this-is-botswana.com
39
42. Desert & Delta Safaris
UNRIVALLED CHOICE OF
LUXURY SAFARI EXPERIENCES
D
esert & Delta Safaris operates
seven luxury lodges and camps in
Botswana and Namibia. Established
in 1982, the company prides itself on offering
a personalised service. All its lodges employ
Batswana staff recruited from nearby villages.
Game drives are conducted in comfortable
Toyota Land Cruisers with removable canvas
roofs to provide shade when necessary.
CHOBE GAME LODGE
Chobe Game Lodge is the only permanent
game lodge within the Chobe National Park.
This newly renovated lodge can accommo-
SAVUTE SAFARI LODGE
date 94 guests in luxurious and spacious
Savute Safari Lodge, in the south-west of
rooms and features a boardwalk overlooking
Chobe National Park, is an intimate lodge
the Chobe River. There are also four exclu-
overlooking the Savute Channel. It accom-
sive suites with their own plunge pools and
modates just 24 guests in cool, thatched,
separate lounges. Guests can explore the river
timber-and-glass suites.
and the abundant wildlife and bird species of
this world-renowned park.
CAMP MOREMI
Camp Moremi is on the edge of Xakanaxa
CHOBE SAVANNA LODGE
Lagoon in the Moremi Game Reserve. It
Guests can experience Namibia at its finest on
accommodates 24 guests in newly rebuilt
a safari at Chobe Savanna Lodge. Accommo-
African-style safari tents, each sited on a
dating just 24 guests, the lodge has a classic
raised teak platform with a sundeck and
savanna setting with sweeping vistas. Centre-
plunge pool.
piece is a thatched open-sided lodge with
270-degree views over the river and park.
CAMP OKAVANGO
Located on Nxaragha Island on the northeast fringe of Moremi Game Reserve, the
enchanting Camp Okavango accommodates
just 24 guests.
XUGANA ISLAND LODGE
Xugana Island Lodge, overlooking the spectacular Xugana Lagoon, accommodates just
16 guests in reed and thatch lagoon-facing
en-suite chalets with private viewing decks.
LEROO LA TAU
Leroo La Tau has a majestic setting on high
cliffs above the Boteti River, on the western
border of Makgadikgadi National Park.
40
43.
44. This is Botswana
MEMBER INDEX
Chitabe Camp & Chitable Lediba
A
48
Game Trails
65
Chobe Explorations
63
Get Up & Go Safaris
65
Chobe Game Lodge
48
Ghoha Hills Savuti Lodge
50
Chobe Marina Lodge
48
Gunn’s Camp
50
Chobe Safari Lodge
48
Gweta Lodge
50
Chobezi Safaris
63
Cresta Bosele Hotel
70
Cresta Botsalo Hotel
71
Cresta Lodge
71
71
&Beyond Chobe Under Canvas
61
&Beyond Expeditions
61
&Beyond Mobile Safaris
61
&Beyond Nxabega Okavango
Tented Camp
46
&Beyond Sandibe Okavango
Safari Lodge
46
&Beyond Savute Under Canvas
62
&Beyond Xaranna Okavango
Delta Camp
46
Cresta Marang Gardens
Cresta Mowana Safari Lodge
71
&Beyond Xudum Okavango
Delta Lodge
46
Cresta President Hotel
71
Abu Camp
47
Cresta Rileys Hotel
71
Africa Under Canvas
62
Cresta Thapama Hotel
72
Africa Voyages
62
Curry Pot
75
African Horseback Safaris
47
Afrika Calls Cultural Tours
& Safaris
62
D
Afro Trek
62
Deception Valley Lodge
49
Air Botswana
79
Delta Rain
64
Airlink
79
Delta Sure Safaris
64
AON Botswana
74
Drifters Safaris
64
AT&T Monnakgotla Travel
& Tours
77
Drumbeat Safaris
64
Audi Camp
47
Duba Plains Camp
49
Avis Botswana
75
Duma Tau Camp
49
Banoka Bush Camp
47
Botswana Development
Corporation
75
Botswana Wildlife Management
Association
78
Budget Rent a Car
75
Bush Ways Safaris
62
Bushlife Safaris
63
Bushtracks Safaris
63
C
47
Camp Moremi
47
Camp Okavango
48
Capricorn Safaris
63
Capture Africa
63
Caterplus Botswana
42
75
I
Island Safari Lodge
51
J
51
Jack’s Camp
51
Jao Camp
51
John Chase Safaris
65
K
Kalahari Air Services
79
Kalahari Holiday Tours
65
Kalahari Plains Camp
Eagle Island Camp
49
Echo Lodge
49
Edo’s Camp
49
Elephant Back Safaris –
Seba Camp
50
Elephant Trails Safari
64
Elephant Valley Lodge
50
Endeavour Safaris
64
51
Kalahari Skies
65
Kanana Camp
51
Kang Ultra Stop
52
Karibu Safaris
65
Kazuma Trails
66
Khwai River Lodge
52
Kings Pool Camp
52
Kitso Safaris
66
Kubu Lodge
52
75
Flying Mission Services
79
52
52
Kwetsani Camp
F
Kwa Nokeng Lodge, ML Koorts
Kwara Camp
Fairground Holdings
Camp Kalahari
Haina Kalahari Lodge/Green Bream 50
Jacana Camp
E
B
H
53
L
Lagoon Camp
G4S Botswana
76
Gaborone Sun Hotel
72
53
Lansmore Masa Square
G
72
Lape Lodge
72
Lebala Camp
53
Leroo La Tau
53
45. Letaka Safaris/Malachite Safaris
66
Peermont Mondior Summit
73
Southern Cross Safaris
69
Lewis Safaris
66
Peermont Walmont Hotel
73
Sunbeam Hotel
73
Linville Boutique Bed & Breakfast
74
Penduka Safaris
67
Sunrise Travel & Travel
77
Little Kwara
53
Phakalane Golf Estate Hotel Resort 73
Swampland Safari Trails
69
Little Vumbura Camp
54
Planet Baobab
56
Planet Okavango
67
Planet Wilderness Safaris
67
Pom Pom Camp
56
Pony Transport
76
Pride of Africa Safaris
68
Protours Botswana
76
M
Mack Air
79
Mankwe Bush Lodge
54
Mapula Lodge
54
Maroon Tours & Safaris
77
Masson Safaris
66
Maun Lodge
72
Mokolodi Wildlife Foundation
78
Mombo Camp
Moremi Air Safaris
Moremi Crossing
54
Moremi Safaris & Tours
66
Motheo Apartments
74
MRI Botswana
76
Muchenje Safari Lodge
54
T
Tati River Lodge
59
Tau Pan Lodge
59
Thamalakane River Lodge
59
Thebe River Safaris
69
The Fitzwilliam Partnership
77
Tholo Safaris
59
Toro Safari Lodge
59
Travelodge
60
54
TRL Travel
78
80
Tubu Tree Lodge
60
Tuli Safari Lodge
60
Q
Quadrum Safaris
68
R
Real Time Safari
76
Roger Dugmore Safaris
68
Royal Tree Lodge. Wagon Wheel
56
Ulinda Safari Trails
67
Nguma Island Lodge
55
North Gate Lodge
55
Nxai Pan
55
Nxamaseri Island Lodge
55
O
80
Safari Destination
68
Safari Drive
68
Safari & Guide Services
68
Safari Life Africa
57
57
57
57
78
Uncharted Africa Safaris
Exploration Services
70
69
San Camp
Sanctuary Chobe Chilwero
Ngamiland Adventure Safaris
57
Safari Air
Sanctuary Chief’s Camp
55
Safari Africa
Sanctuary Baines’ Camp
Nata Lodge
70
Umpengu Tours & Safaris
S
N
U
Oasis Motel
72
Sanctuary Stanley’s Camp
57
Oasis Zanzibar
56
Sango Safari Camp
80
SATIB Africa Botswana
76
Okavango Horse Safaris
56
Savute Elephant Camp
58
Okuti Camp
56
Savute Safari Lodge
58
Orient-Express Safaris
67
Savuti Bush Camp
58
Seabelo Travel & Tours
77
Sedia Riverside Hotel
58
Shinde Camp
59
SKL Group
69
Somarelang Tikologo
60
W
Wilderness Air
80
Wilderness Dawning
70
Wilderness Safaris Explorations
70
58
Selinda Camp
Vumbura Plains Camp
58
Okavango Air Rescue
V
78
P
Papadi Safaris & Tours
67
Peermont Metcourt Inn
73
Peermont Metcourt Lodge
73
www.this-is-botswana.com
X
Xakanaxa Camp
60
Xigera Camp
60
Xugana Island Lodge
61
Z
Zafara Camp
61
43
46. LISTING INDEX
PAGE
46
CAMPS & LODGES
61
MOBILE SECTOR
71
HOTEL SECTOR
74
SELF CATERING
74
GUEST HOUSES
75
SERVICES
77
TOUR OPERATORS
78
CONSERVATION & WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT
79
AIR CHARTER & AIRLINE SECTOR
Star Grading System
Grades awarded and supplied by the Botswana Tourism Organisation.
The Botswana Star Grading System is used to differentiate the various quality
levels of establishments, it provides judgements on the amenities, facilities and
services of particular properties in a way that enables travellers to choose the
quality of accommodation they want. The system applies objectivity obtained
from the grading standards and subjectivity obtained from the grading criteria.
44
47. This is Botswana
DESTINATION MAP
Za
m
be
o
n
n
n
nd
ua
Cu
ZAMBIA
SIOMA NGWEZI
NATIONAL
A
PARK
P
ANGOLA
Binga
nga
KASANE
KA NE
E
NAMIBIA
Ng ma
Ngoma
MUD
MU
MUDUMU
NATIONAL
NATIONAL
A
L
PARK
P
Mukwe
Kavango
Kalomo
mo
o
Katundu
u
Kati
ti
tima
o
Katima Mulilo
PARK
AME
i vi
IV
IVI G
Capr
CAPR
KASANE
FOREST
RESERVE
ZAMBEZI
ZAMBEZI
ZI
I
N.P.
MATETSI N.P.
A
I N.P
SAFARI
S
SAFARI
RI
AREA
AREA
REA
CHIZARIRA
NATIONAL
NATIONAL
A
AL
L
P
PARK CHIRISA
A
SAFARI
SAFARI
F I
EA
AREA
LIVINGSTONE
ST
TORIA F
A
VICTORIA FALLS
i
Zamb ez
V
Victor
Victori
Victoria
Falls
Hwange
e
KAZUMA
P
PAN N.P.
P
N.P.
CHOBE
FOREST
RESERVE
M
MAMILI
N.P.
P
Kar b
A F R ILAKEAKariba
C KARIBA
Choma
Mulobezi
zi
ZIMBABWE
MAIKAELELO
FOREST
RESERVE
CHOBE C h o b e
NATIONAL
PARK D i s t r i c t
TSODILO HILLS
KAUDOM
KA
KAUDOM
GAME
PARK
P
Matabeleland
SIBUYU
F.R.
HWANGE
W
NATIONAL
A
P
PARK
MOREMI
OKAVANGO GAME RESERVE
DELTA
AHA HILLS
MAUN
NAMIBIA
Ngamiland
District
NXAI PAN
NATIONAL
PARK
MAKGADIKGADI
PANS
MAKGADIKGADI
NATIONAL
PARK
PANS
Sehithwa
Ngami Dam
BULAWAYO
BULAWAYO
WA
Nata
KGWEBE HILLS
Ntwetwe
Pan
MATOBO
ATOBO
O
MATOBO
NATIONAL
A O
NATIONAL
P RK
PARK
R
Sowa
Central
District
TSAU HILLS
BOTSWANA
Tonata
Mo t
lo
SELEBI
PHIKWE
Mogapi
TULI BLOCK
Lo ts
o
im
ane
Li
Limpo p
PALAPYE
Hukuntsi
MAHALAPYE M
h
ala
tsw Makwale
Dinokwe e
KHUTSE
GAME
RESERVE
Kgalagadi
District
Kgatleng
District
Molepolole
Jwaneng
KGALAGADI
TRANSFRONTIER PARK
Southern
District
GABORONE
Ramotswa
Kanye
Au
ob
g
Tsabong
N o r t h -W e s t
Major Roads
Other Roads
Railways
www.this-is-botswana.com
Se hego
Seshego
P
POLOKWANE
W NE
E
POLOKWANE
Mokop
kop
opane
p
Mokopane
Mookgophong
okg
hab z
Thabazimbi
Modimolle
e
Bela-Bela
MADIKWE
MADIKWE
K
LOBATSE
Groblersdal
PILANESBERG
AN
ANESBERG
NESBER
Rustenb
ste
te
tenburg
Rustenburg
o
MAFIKENG
MAFIKEN
AFIKENG
Limpopo
SOUTH
AFRICA
MOCHUDI
DI
Zeerust
Mo lo
p
T m
Tom
B
Burke
Lephalale
Dibete
Lethakeng
Tshane
Sherwood
Marico
aric
Kang
Kweneng
District
Sefo phe
Sefophe
Paje
MOKGARE
HILLS
CENTRAL KALAHARI
GAME RESERVE
utse
Serule
Mmashoro
SEROWE
Ghanzi
District
t
West
olson
n
Nicholson
FRANCISTOWN
ORAPA
Ghanzi
MATOBO LLS
A O
MATOBO HILLS
An ope
Antelope
nte p
G
Gwanda
Dam
am
I
Ingwezi
Dam
Sowa
Pan
Koster
oster
r
Lichtenburg
National Boundaries
VentersdorpBoundaries
District
Brits
Gauteng
M
MIDD
MIDDELBURG
R
PRETORIA
A
National Parks
Forest Reserves
45
48. CAMPS & LODGES
WONDERFUL ACCOMMODATION
IN PERFECT SETTINGS
Botswana boasts some of the very best camps and lodges
in Africa. Guided by strict controls on the construction
of properties inside and close to national parks and
reserves, Botswana has encouraged and maintained
the very highest standards and ensured that visitor
numbers are limited.
While Botswana has tended to position itself as an
upmarket safari destination, there are camps and lodge
to suit all budgets from the truly extravagant to the
merely humble.
Many camps and lodges are run by internationally known
safari companies with other properties beyond Botswana’s
borders and with the experience to ensure that visitors
enjoy the very best cuisine, accommodation and guiding.
Others are owner run or independent. These offer a slightly
different product – personal service and sometimes personal
guiding from someone who not only operates the property
but who takes guests with him or her each day to view game
and who is there each evening to discuss the day’s sightings
and to plan tomorrow’s new adventure.
Most properties are located across Botswana’s north and
are reached from either Maun or Kasane – often, but not
always, via a short connecting flight.
&Beyond Nxabega
Okavango Tented Camp
&Beyond Sandibe
Okavango Safari Lodge
&Beyond is one of the world’s leading luxury
experiential travel companies, designing personalised
luxury safaris in 16 African countries, as well as India,
Bhutan and Sri Lanka. Established in 1991, &Beyond
takes exceptional care of its guests in order to make a
difference; its commitment to sustainable responsible
travel and community empowerment is world renowned.
&Beyond is one of the world’s leading luxury
experiential travel companies, designing personalised
luxury safaris in 16 African countries, as well as India,
Bhutan and Sri Lanka. Established in 1991, &Beyond
takes exceptional care of its guests in order to make a
difference; its commitment to sustainable responsible
travel and community empowerment is world renowned.
Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp is on the edge of the
Okavango Delta in a 7,000 hectare exclusive wildlife
concession bordering the Moremi Game Reserve.
Nxabega is ideally positioned to explore the Okavango.
The camp consists of tented accommodation with views
of the Okavango Delta. Nine exclusive tented suites
nestle under a canopy of ebony trees, featuring private
verandas overlooking the reeded molapo (floodplain).
Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge is situated on a
permanent channel of the Okavango Delta, next to
the Moremi Game Reserve. The lodge was built with
a commitment to “treading lightly on the earth” and
consists of eight en-suite cottages. Private decks provide
vantage points in this birdwatchers’ paradise. Guests
can also experience game drives, mokoro rides, bush
walks and delta cruises in an ‘eco-boat’.
&Beyond Xaranna
Okavango Delta Camp
&Beyond Xudum
Okavango Delta Lodge
&Beyond is one of the world’s leading luxury
experiential travel companies, designing personalised
luxury safaris in 16 African countries, as well as India,
Bhutan and Sri Lanka. Established in 1991, &Beyond
takes exceptional care of its guests in order to make a
difference; its commitment to sustainable responsible
travel and community empowerment is world renowned.
&Beyond is one of the world’s leading luxury
experiential travel companies, designing personalised
luxury safaris in 16 African countries, as well as India,
Bhutan and Sri Lanka. Established in 1991, &Beyond
takes exceptional care of its guests in order to make a
difference; its commitment to sustainable responsible
travel and community empowerment is world renowned.
Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp enjoys its own Delta
island within a 25,000 hectare wildlife concession.
Xaranna is a camp with nine en-suite safari tents. All
with sweeping views across the channels. Each tent has a
sala, plunge pool, indoor and al fresco shower. The dining
area features shady verandas leading out to a boma,
where candlelit dinners are served. Guests experience
walking safaris, game drives and mokoro excursions.
Xudum Okavango Delta Lodge lies within an exclusive
25,000 hectare wildlife concession. Nine split-level
safari suites feature large bathtubs and al fresco shower,
plunge pool and a rooftop look-out with magnificent Delta
views.
Private Bag 34, Maun
Tel: +267 686 1979
Fax: +267 686 1972
Email: safaris@andBeyond.com
www.andbeyond.com
Private Bag 34, Maun
Tel: +267 686 1979
Fax: +267 686 1972
Email: safaris@andBeyond.com
www.andbeyond.com
46
Private Bag 34, Maun
Tel: +267 686 1979
Fax: +267 686 1972
Email: safaris@andBeyond.com
www.andbeyond.com
Private Bag 34, Maun
Tel: +267 686 1979
Fax: +267 686 1972
Email: safaris@andBeyond.com
www.andbeyond.com
The guest areas boast panoramic views of the
surrounding wilderness from decks, and the signature
&Beyond interactive kitchen bustles with activity.
49. CAMPS & LODGES
Abu Camp
Private Bag 14, Maun
Tel: +267 686 0086
Fax: +267 686 0632
Email: enquiry@wilderness-safaris.com
www.wilderness-safaris.com
Abu Camp set in a pristine riverine forest in a private
reserve in Botswana’s Okavango Delta. Six en-suite
uniquely styled canvas and pole tents each distinctly
furnished with private elevated desks overlook the
Okavango Delta. Well-lit pathways link the tents with the
main lounge, dining area, plunge pool and gym.
The Abu Camp experience offers guests the ability to
interact with the resident elephant herd, initiating a
journey into the complex behaviour of Earth’s largest
land mammal. Guests become a part of the elephant herd
during their stay joining them on foot or riding as they
move through the bush. Other activities include day and
night game drives, walks and during the floods guests
can also enjoy a mokoro experience.
Audi Camp
PO Box 21439, Boseja, Maun
Tel: +267 686 0599
Fax: +267 686 5388
Email: info@okavangocamp.com
www.okavangocamp.com
Audi Camp, established in 1993, is located 12 km north
of Maun on the road to the Moremi Game Reserve. It
is situated on the banks of the Thamalakane River,
the southernmost tributary of the Okavango Delta.
Accommodation is in luxury en-suite tents on raised
wooden decking overlooking the river. There are also
many shaded camping areas, some with power points.
A range of activities can be organised including mokoro
tours to the Okavango, catered vehicle safaris to Moremi
Game Reserve, Chobe National Park, Central Kalahari
Game Reserve, Nxai Pan, Makgadikgadi National Park,
Tsodilo Hills and other destinations in Botswana. Audi
Camp can also arrange half-day excursions and activities
in and around the Maun area such as cultural village
tours, the Maun Game Sanctuary and horse riding.
African
Horseback Safaris
Town Office, Plot 1447, Sedie Ward
PO Box 20671, Maun
Tel: +267 686 1523
Fax: +267 686 4063
Email: reservations@africanhorseback.com
www.africanhoresback.com
African Horseback safaris ride with herds of giraffe or
zebra across the plains and track elephant or buffalo
from island to island. Travel with this unique herd
through the lagoons of the Okavango Delta or simply
watch the setting sun whilst listening to the calls of lion.
Macatoo Camp features eight luxury en-suite tents
overlooking floodplains where elephant, zebra and
birdlife can be seen from private verandas. Centrally
there is a mess tent and a private pool. Riding with wild
animals makes this the ultimate African adventure.
Qualified guides will share their knowledge, using the
horses to best effect bringing guests closer to nature.
Non-riding spouses, partners, friends and children can
enjoy the many alternative activities on offer including
game drives, seasonal boating, mokoro and fishing.
Banoka Bush Camp
1 Mathiba Road
Private Bag 014, Maun
Tel: +267 686 0086
Fax: +267 686 0632
Email: enquiry@wilderness-safaris.com
www.wilderness-safaris.com
Banoka Bush Camp, 100% solar powered, is situated in
the Khwai Development Trust Community Concession,
on the banks of the Khwai River in the north-eastern
corner of the Okavango Delta adjoining the Moremi Game
Reserve.
Banoka Bush Camp is built overlooking a lagoon with
all the rooms and main area raised off the ground.
Accommodation is in ten en-suite tented rooms (two
family) complete with private verandas. The main area
consists of a bar, lounge, dining area, plunge pool and
deck and an open area to enjoy the campfire. The camp
is easily combined with the Linyanti regions and Central
Kalahari Game Reserve to provide a comprehensive
Botswana wildlife experience.
Camp Kalahari
Camp Moremi
This authentic bush camp accepts children of all ages
and is the best way to experience the Makgadikgadi in a
fresh and adventurous way. Ideal for those wanting fun
and action, without sacrificing comfort and style.
Peering out beneath giant ebony trees, Camp Moremi
brings true meaning to the word safari in the Xaxanaka
area of Moremi Game Reserve. The main building
comprising a main lounge, dining room and cocktail
bar invites a true sense of the African wilderness. Other
facilities include a swimming pool and thatched boma
where brunch and high tea are served.
PO Box 173, Francistown
Tel: +27 11 447 1605
Fax: +27 11 447 6905
Email: res2@unchartedafrica.com
www.unchartedafrica.com
Camp Kalahari’s ten tents are nestled amongst the
acacias and Mokolwane palms of Brown Hyena Island.
Activities on offer all year include: interacting with
friendly habituated meerkats, walking with bushmen
guides, game drives to experience desert wildlife,
Chapman’s Baobab and night drives.
Dry season: 16 April-31 October - Quad biking across the
saltpans
Wet season: 1 November-15 April - The zebra and
wildebeest migration experience
www.this-is-botswana.com
PO Box 310, Maun
Tel: +267 686 1243
Fax: +267 686 1791
Email: info@desertdelta.com
www.desertdelta.com
Accommodating 24 guests in newly rebuilt African-style
safari tents, each sited on a raised teak platform with
private ensuite facilities and viewing decks. Guests can
also enjoy frequent sightings of lion, leopard and cheetah
on their morning and afternoon game drives by open
4x4 safari vehicles in the Moremi Wildlife Reserve, or
alternatively, they can explore the Xaxanaka Lagoon
and surrounding Okavango channels by motorboat.
47
50. CAMPS & LODGES
Camp Okavango
PO Box 310, Maun
Tel: +267 686 1243
Fax: +267 686 1791
Email: info@desertdelta.com
www.desertdelta.com
Camp Okavango sits at the heart of the Okavango on
Nxaragha Island. Its main lodge building features a
cocktail bar and lounge with the dining room leading to
an open-air patio for evenings around the fire.
Other facilities include a bird-viewing hide and a sundeck
with a plunge pool. Accommodating 24 guests in African
style safari tents on raised platforms with en-suite
facilities and private viewing decks.
For the ultimate in exclusivity, the Okavango Suite is a
thatched cottage offering complete privacy – ideal for
honeymooners. Game-viewing activities are conducted
by experienced guides and include exploring the
Okavango by mokoro, motor boat and tracking the larger
game on nature walks on the surrounding islands.
Chitabe Camp &
Chitabe Lediba
P Bag 014, Maun
Tel: +267 686 0086
Fax: +267 686 0632
Email: enquiry@wilderness-safaris.com
www.wilderness-safaris.com
Chitabe Camp and Chitabe Lediba are situated in a
private concession on a beautiful island in the south-east
of the Okavango. Chitabe Camp consists of eight elevated,
Meru-style tents nestling among the trees, each with
twin beds, en-suite facilities and an outdoor shower. The
thatched dining area, pub and lounge area are built on
decks with superb views across the floodplain.
Chitabe Lediba comprises five spacious Meru-style tents,
also on raised decks with luxurious interiors. It has two
family tents, with en-suite bathrooms, making it the
perfect camp for families and children. Both camps have
been operating for over 16 years, with reputations for
great game viewing with experienced guides, friendly
staff and delicious food. Chitabe and Chitabe Lediba are
owned by Flamingo Investments. Booking inquiries
should be made through Okavango Wilderness Safaris.
Chobe Game Lodge
PO Box 32, Kasane
Tel: +267 625 0340
Fax: +267 625 0280
Email: info@desertdelta.com
www.chobegamelodge.co.bw
Situated 100 km west of Victoria Falls overlooking the
Chobe River and the Caprivi floodplains, the iconic Chobe
Game Lodge is the only permanent safari lodge within
the Chobe National Park.
The lodge accommodates up to 94 guests. Every room
is river-facing with en-suite bathrooms. In addition,
four exclusive suites have their own plunge pools and
separate lounges. Other facilities include a conference
room seating up to 90 people, broadband internet, a
cigar bar overlooking the river, swimming pool and
riverside boma. Game drives, game viewing by boat,
sunset cruises and after-dinner stargazing are offered.
Chobe Game Lodge is the first lodge in Botswana, with
more than 10 rooms, to have been granted the Botswana
Tourism Organisation’s full Eco Grading.
Chobe Marina Lodge
Chobe Safari Lodge
Uniquely located in north-eastern Botswana where
four African nations converge, Chobe Marina Lodge is
surrounded by natural beauty. The Chobe River, Chobe
National Park, Kasane Forest Reserve, the Caprivi
Strip and the Zambezi River are all close to the lodge.
Accommodation at Chobe Marina Lodge consists of 66
rooms. All have air conditioning, television, telephones,
minibars and daily housekeeping.
Chobe Safari Lodge is located on the doorstep of the
Chobe National Park and offers luxury accommodation,
camping facilities, river boat cruises, game drives and
fishing trips. It is 3 km from Kasane International
Airport and 80 km from Victoria Falls. Accommodation
consists of luxurious twin-bed river rooms, individually
decorated safari rooms, thatched rondavels and the
Chobe Safari Lodge campsite.
The world-famous Chobe National Park is just 10 minutes
from Chobe Marina Lodge. Alternatively there are
river boat cruises to the park. Other activities include
a sightseeing cruise to Sedudu island, fishing and
birdwatching. In addition there is a swimming pool and
the Commissioners à la carte restaurant. The lodge also
has a conference venue and conferencing equipment.
Other activities and facilities include fishing, Victoria
Falls day trips, swimming pool, beauty salon, internet
café, river bar, restaurant and airport transfers. The
Sedudu Sunset Bar overlooks Sedudu Island and is
a perfect venue from which to view the magnificent
African sunset, while enjoying the sights and sounds of
nature.
P Bag K 83, Kasane
Tel: +267 625 2220
Fax: +267 625 2224
Email: res1@chobemarinalodge.com
www.chobemarinalodge.com
48
PO Box 10, Kasane
Tel: +267 625 0336
Fax: +267 625 0437
Email: reservations@chobesafarilodge.com
www.chobesafarilodge.com
51. CAMPS & LODGES
Deception Valley
Lodge
P Bag 114, Maun
Tel: +27 117 067 207
Fax: +44 121 286 8393
Email: bushman@dvl.co.za
www.dvl.co.za
Discover an oasis in the Central Kalahari, this is
Deception Valley Lodge, where you can relax in total
luxury.
The main complex has a dining room, lounge and bar
area. From the deck, guests can view activities at the
nearby water hole. A swimming pool, curio shop and
small library form part of the complex.
Accommodation consists of eight private units, each
consisting of a twin-bedroom, lounge, Victorian-style
bathroom with an outside shower. Each unit has a deck
with views over the Kalahari bush.
Duba Plains Camp
P Bag 014, Maun
Tel: +267 686 0086
Fax: +267 686 0632
Email: enquiry@wilderness-safaris.com
www.wilderness-safaris.com
In the remotest reaches of the Okavango Delta lies Duba
Plains. One of the delta’s most remote camps, Duba Plains
is on the Kwedi Reserve, a tree-filled island in a private
30,000 hectare concession famed for lion prides and
buffalo herds.
Accommodation is made up of six tents with en-suite
bathroom, outside shower, and a veranda overlooking
the floodplain.
The thatch-roofed lounge, dining room and bar areas
are raised on platforms along with a swimming pool, all
providing a beautiful view.
Activities include game drives in an open four-wheeldrive vehicle or on foot with San guides.
There is a variety of activities including day and night
game drives, often following the lion prides tracking the
buffalo herds as they roam the vast concession.
DumaTau Camp
Eagle Island Camp
Located close to the source of the Savute Channel, in
the Linyanti concession in northern Botswana, this and
other waterways lure a plethora of wildlife and birds,
particularly in the dry winter months.
On the island of Xaxaba, in the Okavango Delta, lies
Eagle Island Camp. Access to the lodge is by light aircraft
from Maun, a 20-minute flight transfer. The camp offers
open-air and covered dining, a bar and comfortable
lounge area. The viewing deck with swimming pool is
ideal to take in the spectacular Delta sunsets.
P. Bag 014, Maun
Tel: +267 686 0086
Fax: +267 686 0632
Email: enquiry@wilderness-safaris.com
www.wilderness-safaris.com
DumaTau, recently rebuilt and 100% solar powered is
a 10-room tented camp (one family room) overlooking
a large hippo-filled lagoon. The canvas tents are stylish
and spacious with canvas walls, en-suite bathroom
facilities and a veranda overlooking the lagoon. The
dining room, pub, lounge and swimming pool also look
out over the lagoon. A stunning star deck floats out on
the lagoon.
Wildlife viewing is the primary activity with day and
night game drives, walks, boating (levels permitting)
and various platforms and hides.
Echo Lodge
Plot 106, Trans Kalahari Highway
PO Box 81, Kang
Tel: +267 651 7094
Fax: +267 651 7076
Email: echolodgereception@botsnet.bw
www.echolodge.co.bw
Echo Lodge is located along the Trans-Kalahari road in
Kang village and on the Hukuntsi road junction which
is the gateway to Mabuasehube National Park which is
located in Botswana midway between Namibia and South
Africa. The animals found in Mabuasehube National
Park are a variety of antelopes, predators and birds.
There are 10 double bed rooms at the main lodge and a
guest house with six rooms. There is a restaurant with
a capacity of 60 people and the guest bar offers a variety
of beverages. The conference facility, which is fully air
conditioned, can seat 60 people and Echo Lodge caters
for on or off site events such as conferences, outdoor
shows and weddings. Wireless Internet, traditional
Basarwa/San song and dance performances, braais and
same-day laundry facilities are available on request.
www.this-is-botswana.com
PO Box 100, Maun
Tel: +267 686 0302
Fax: +267 686 0153
Email: sandy.fowler@orient-express.com
www.orient-express.com
The camp offers game viewing by mokoro, motorised
boats and a 14-seater sundowner cruiser as well as
guided walking safaris on the surrounding islands and
spectacular helicopter excursions.
The 11 luxury en-suite tents and one suite have private
decks, while the interiors are luxuriously appointed with
minibar, four-poster bed with mosquito netting and air
conditioning, offering guests complete comfort all year
round.
Edo’s Camp
PO Box 215, Ghanzi
Cell: +267 7211 9400
Fax: +267 7280 0399
Email: edoscamp@gmail.com
www.edoscamp.com
Edo’s Camp is located in a 120,000 hectare private game
conservancy in the Kalahari and can accommodate
eight guests in four large, twin-bed safari-style tents.
Each tent has its own private veranda with gorgeous
views on a rocky waterhole. The setting around the camp
is delightful and the presence of animals drinking at the
waterhole makes it even more outstanding. Edo’s Camp
offers a wide range of exciting and interesting activities.
A special, unforgettable moment is represented by
cultural tourism – that is, the visit to a San village
nearby the camp.
Moreover, tourists are offered rhino tracking on foot
with San guides. The camp is host to seven specimens of
this beautiful animal. The camp also has its own heated
swimming pool.
49
52. CAMPS & LODGES
Elephant Back
Safaris - Seba Camp
Elephant Valley
Lodge
Overlooking a perennial lagoon with prolific birdlife
and resident pods of hippo, Seba Camp has eight wellappointed, spacious tents elevated from the ground,
including two family suites each with two connected en
suite double bedrooms. The suites include a built-in tree
house an elevated deck – each has an en-suite bathroom
and a private deck with magnificent views.
The Chobe region is home to the largest population of
elephant in the world. Often their daily passage takes
them from Zimbabwe through the Chobe and on into
Namibia before returning. Elephant Valley Lodge lies
along one of these main routes and is situated in the
Kasane Forest, which is adjacent to the Chobe National
Park.
Well-lit paths lead to the communal dining area, bar
and a lounge-library. Seba Camp also has a secluded
swimming pool to refresh and relax in after a game
drive. A seasonal abundance of game graces the area;
giraffe, zebra, impala, wildebeest, tessebe and lechwe.
Lion frequent the greater area and herds of buffalo are
also occasional visitors to Seba Camp.
Aside from the main lodge area which lies beneath
a forest of sturdy knob thorns, there are several
other open guest areas, a secluded hide, a refreshing
swimming pool and, in terms of accommodation, 20
Meru-style tents.
1 Mathiba Road, Private Bag 014, Maun
Tel +267 686 0086
Fax +267 686 0632
Email: enquiry@wilderness-safaris.com
www.wilderness-safaris.com
Ghoha Hills Savuti Lodge
c/o PO Box 259, Plot 119, Unit 2F
Gaborone
Tel: +276 620 0001
Fax: +27 86 554 1134
Email: info@ghohahillssavuti.com
www.ahagroup.co.za
Located on the ledges of the Ghoha Hills in the Savuti
area of Chobe National Park, Ghoha Hills Savuti Lodge
offers a first-class safari experience with luxury and
tranquillity in an eco-friendly environment that runs
purely on solar energy.
Accommodation is in 11 canvas chalets, all with en-suite
facilities and magnificent vistas that can be enjoyed
from individual viewing decks. The guest area comprises
dining, lounge, bar and curio as well as relaxation
areas, a rock pool and a traditional boma room. From
both main area and guest room locations it is possible to
view a productive waterhole that attracts many species
including elephant, lion, jackal and zebra.
PO Box 465, Kasane
Tel: +267 620 0054
Fax: +267 620 0055
Email: elephantvalley@yahoo.com
www.evlodge.com
Gunn’s Camp
P Bag 033, Maun
Tel: +267 686 0023
Fax: +267 686 0040
Email: ops@gunnscamp.net
www.gunnscamp.com
Overlooking the legendary Chiefs Island and bordering
the Moremi Game Reserve, Gunn’s Camp is one of the last
few remaining luxury, vintage safari camps.
This small and intimate camp has six, large, luxury
vintage-style safari tents. Each with its own private
lounge and veranda. All tents are discreetly set within
the densely treed island thus ensuring privacy and
tranquillity. The accommodation area is connected to
the main camp via raised wooden walkway crossing
the wetlands and magically lit by a series of fairylike
lanterns. Guests have access to the elevated bar, lounge,
dining room and swimming pool.
Activities include morning and afternoon game drives,
guided walks, birdwatching and stargazing.
Activities on offer are half or full day mokoro trips with
game walks, bush walks with picnic lunch, wilderness
camping, sunset motorboat cruises and fishing.
Gweta Lodge
Haina Kalahari
Lodge/Green Bream
PO Box 124, Gweta
Tel: +267 621 2220
Fax: +267 621 2458
Email: info@gwetalodge.bw
www.gwetalodge.com
P. Bag BO 48, Maun
Tel: +267 686 3469
Fax: +267 686 3469
Email: reservations@hainasafarilodge.com
www.hainakalahari.com
Set in the village of Gweta, 200 km from Maun and 100
km from Nata, Gweta Lodge is a gateway to the pans
and a rare oasis in the desert. Set around the central
pool, the lodge offers a high-class restaurant, relaxing
lounge, excellent accommodation options and a range of
activities and safaris to suite people of all ages.
Haina Kalahari Lodge is located on the northern border
of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. The setting of the
lodge is classically African, relaxed and informal. The
Main Boma consists of a lounge, dining room and bar
area decorated in wood and thatch.
The lodge offers opportunities for game viewing using
several locations and camps in the area. Based within
easy reach of the Makgadikgadi Pans, the lodge is
ideally situated to take advantage of a gateway into
the heart of the wilderness. It offers a vast range of
excursions, activities and opportunities to guests and
local communities.
Gweta Lodge also has a strict environmental and
conservation policy.
50
A swimming pool, sun deck, bar and a boma eating
area are among the facilities available to visitors. The
sundeck is a popular spot for social activities. The lodge
accommodates up to 20 guests in tented accommodation
that are all private with their own decks.
Activities on offer include game drives, quad bike safaris
and an unforgettable experience with the local bushmen
people. Mobile overnight and day trip safaris are also
offered into the Central Kalahari Game Reserve.
53. CAMPS & LODGES
Island Safari Lodge
Jacana Camp
Despite many changes over the years, the spirit
and character that defined Island Safari Lodge, as
conceptualised and built by Tony Graham in 1973, still
exists today.
Jacana Camp, west of the Moremi Game Reserve, is an
authentic delta water camp situated on a small island.
Jacana offers mekoro and boating and game drives on
the Jao floodplains (accessed by boat). Catch and release
fishing is offered. Elephant are regularly in the area.
Birdlife is abundant; enthusiasts can spot Pel’s fishing
owl, rosy throated longclaw, pygmy goose and slaty
egret.
PO Box 116, Maun
Tel: +267 686 0300
Fax: +267 686 2932
Email: enquire@africansecrets.net
www.africansecrets.net
For over 30 years the lodge has maintained its legendary
status in Maun and return guests take as much pride in
the renovations and refurbishments as the owners and
management do – all in an attempt to keep facilities up
to date with modern standards while retaining decades
worth of irreplaceable charm.
The meandering Thamalakane River forms a
picturesque pastoral vista to the 12 cottage-style thatch
chalets nestled under a lofty canopy of ancient trees.
P. Bag 014, Maun
Tel +267 686 0086
Fax +267 686 0632
Email: enquiry@wilderness-safaris.com
www.wilderness-safaris.com
Accommodation is in five en-suite tents (one family)
each on raised platforms with views over the lagoon.
The main dining area is an elevated deck surrounded by
wild date palms including a cosy pub and lounge, a large
viewing deck, an open area to sit around the fire and a
small plunge pool.
Jack’s Camp
Jao Camp
Jack’s Camp is an authentic, 1940’s style tented safari
camp, which houses a private museum, drinks tent and
pool pavilion. Spectacular vistas, expert guiding and
superb cuisine all come together to create an experience
that is completely different to any other.
Jao Camp, a Wilderness Safaris Premier Camp, is
located on a remote island in a private concession west of
Moremi Game Reserve. Habitats vary from floodplains,
waterways, lagoons, islands and riverine forest to dry
Kalahari sandveld.
Activities vary, combining wildlife with culture, history,
archaeology and geology. Activities on offer all year
round include: interacting with meerkats, walking with
bushmen, desert wildlife, game drives to see desert
species, Chapman’s Baobab.
Wet season activities: 1 November-15 April - Zebra and
wildebeest migration
Jao Camp has nine large luxurious en-suite tents
(one family) each individually handcrafted and built
on raised decks with a sala offering views over the
floodplains. The camp features a wine cellar, curio shop,
spa and gym. In addition to the dining room and lounge
with pub area, a boma invites dining under the stars.
Activities include mekoro, game drives, boating, fishing
and birding. Herds of red lechwe seen as well as lion,
elephant, buffalo, zebra, hippo, crocodile and the shy
sitatunga.
Kalahari Plains Camp
Kanana Camp
Kalahari Plains Camp is situated in a remote part of the
diverse and productive Central Kalahari Game Reserve
and offers some of the best summer wildlife viewing
opportunities in Africa.
Kanana is a hidden jewel set on the Xudum River in the
southwest Okavango. The area encompasses a necklace
of islands dotted with palms, figs, ebony trees and is
home to a myriad of birds, plants and animals.
Kalahari Plains Camp is perfectly situated overlooking
an immense pan with each of its 10 en-suite canvas units
having a roof top deck to sleep out under the stars. The
main area consists of a lounge, dining area, swimming
pool and deck area. The tents and main area are all
raised off the ground to take in the sweeping views
across the Kalahari. Activities include game drives and
walks hosted by the bushmen. Kalahari Plains is 100%
solar powered and with its water saving initiatives, holds
the top ecotourism certification.
At Kanana, guests are accommodated in eight spacious,
twin-bed safari ‘Meru’ style tents, set on raised decks,
offering breathtaking views across the waterways.
Dependent on the annual floods, the water level
transforms this dry camp into a water experience and in
the early months of the year guests may enjoy the visible
spectacle of the water rising around the camp.
PO Box 173, Francistown
Tel: +27 11 447 1605
Fax +27 11 447 6905
Email: res1@unchartedafrica.com
www.unchartedafrica.com
Dry season activities: 16 April-31 October - Quad bike
across the saltpans
Private Bag 014, Maun
Tel: +267 686 0086
Fax: +267 686 0632
Email: enquiry@wilderness-safaris.com
www.wilderness-safaris.com
www.this-is-botswana.com
Private Bag 014, Maun
Tel: +267 686 0086
Fax: +267 686 0632
Email: enquiry@wilderness-safaris.com
www.wilderness-safaris.com
PO Box 27, Maun
Tel: +267 686 0375
Fax: +267 686 1282
Email: info@kerdowney.bw
www.kerdowneybotswana.com
Kanana offers a wide variety of activities including
game drives, exploring the waterways by mokoro or
powerboats and enjoying the magnificent variety of
birds, plant and reptile species found in the area.
51
54. CAMPS & LODGES
Kang Ultra Stop
Khwai River Lodge
Kang Ultra Stop is situated on the Trans Kgalagadi
Highway, halfway between Johannesburg and
Windhoek/Okavango Delta. It offers air-conditioned
rooms with DSTV, budget accommodation, camping,
swimming pool, restaurant, sportsbar, supermarket,
filling station, curio shop and conference facilities.
The exceptional location of Khwai on the edge of the
Khwai River floodplains in the eastern Moremi Wildlife
Reserve makes it a regular host to elephant, buffalo, lion,
leopard, cheetah and wild dogs.
PO Box 328, Kang
Tel: +267 651 7294
Fax: +267 651 7292
Email: ultrastopkang@yahoo.com
www.kangultrastop.com
Kang Ultra Stop is an ideal sleepover and rest stop for
holidaymakers and travellers.
PO Box 100, Maun
Tel: +267 686 0302
Fax: +267 686 0153
Email: sfowler@orient-express.com
www.orient-express-safaris.com
Access to the lodge is by light aircraft from Maun,
a 25-minute flight transfer. The lodge has a hide
overlooking the floodplains, a swimming pool and a
private spa for indulgent massages and treatments as
well as a small gym. The camp offers a covered dining
area as well as an open-air boma.
Activities include game drives in open safari vehicles
and guided safari walks. The 14 luxury en-suite tents
and one suite are all raised on platforms, offering great
views, and each tent has minibar, air conditioning and a
four-poster bed with mosquito netting.
Kings Pool Camp
Kubu Lodge
Kings Pool Camp, a 100% solar-powered Wilderness
Safaris Premier camp is located in a private concession
in northern Botswana, on the western boundary
of Chobe National Park. The area is famed for its
tremendous elephant herds during the dry season.
The privately owned Kubu Lodge is set in 30 hectares on
the banks of the Chobe River. It comprises 11 thatched
chalets all raised on stilts on a shaded lawn that spreads
beneath giant ebony and wild fig trees to the river’s edge.
The rustic exterior belies the comfort within, which
includes full en-suite facilities, ceiling fans, mosquito
nets, tea/coffee making facility and comfortable beds.
Other facilities available include a bar, curio shop, quiet
reading lounge and a private secluded swimming pool.
Private Bag 014, Maun
Tel: +267 686 0086
Fax: +267 686 0632
Email: enquiry@wilderness-safaris.com
www.wilderness-safaris.com
Nine luxury en-suite tents each have a bedroom area,
lounge, private plunge pool, sala and twin bathroom
facilities. Raised walkways connect the rooms and the
main area and allows animals to wander freely through
the camp. The main area includes a lounge, dining area,
pool and an open-air kgotla for dining under the stars.
Activities include day and night game drives, walks and
boat cruises and visits to an underground hide at one of
the elephants’ favourite water holes.
Kwa Nokeng Lodge,
ML Koorts
PO Box 23, Sherwood
Tel: +267 491 5908
Fax +267 491 5928
Email: Clinton@botsnet.bw
www.knl.co.za
Situated along the banks of the Limpopo River, Kwa
Nokeng Lodge is an ideal stop-over for the tourist
travelling to and from the North. Furthermore, being
just four hours from Gauteng, makes it the perfect family
weekend getaway, offering a variety of activities for
all. Catering for local and international tourists, Kwa
Nokeng Lodge offers a range of accommodation to make
anyone’s stay memorable.
Buffet meals are served around a crackling fire or on the
deck under the branches of a Nyala Berry tree, with a
spectacular view of the Limpopo. There are self-catering
units for families that prefer to do their own thing as
they unwind and relax.
Guided tours into the vast Makgadikgadi Pans are also
available from the camp.
52
PO Box 43, Kasane
Tel: +267 625 0312
Fax: +267 625 1092
Email: kubu@botsnet.bw
www.kubulodge.net
Activities include three-hour game drives or boat cruises
into Chobe National Park for a variety of big game and
birdlife, a slow cruise to the confluence of the Chobe/
Zambezi Rivers, a visit to the crocodile farm or snake
park, a nature trail walk on the property, fishing trips or
a day trip to Victoria Falls.
Kwara Camp
PO Box 550, Maun
Tel: +267 686 1449
Fax: +267 686 1457
Email: reservations@kwando.co.bw
www.kwando.co.bw
Kwara is situated on the edge of the permanent waters of
the Okavango Delta and shares a common boundary with
the Moremi Game Reserve. Owing to the specific location
of the camp, Kwara is able to offer power boating, mokoro
trips, walks and game drives all year round. In addition,
Kwara is in a large private concession, enabling the game
drives to operate both off road and at night.
The camp consists of eight luxury tents accommodating
16 guests. There is one honeymoon suite. The camp
setting is a tall treed island on the edge of the Okavango
Delta.
The teak furniture created by Zimbabwean master
craftsmen is elegant, comfortable and simple. Most of the
tents are raised on teak decks to afford views over the
surrounding plains and lagoon with the resident hippos.