WHY YOU’D LOVE IT!
Spectacular safari days packed with our handpicked selection of the best sights, experiences and accommodation!
- Prepare to be astonished by the incredible sight of Zimbabwe’s majestic Victoria Falls. Your time here will be brimming with a variety of thrilling experiences, from up-close encounters with elephants to exhilarating activities like white-water rafting, helicopter tours, and even a visit to an authentic African village.
- Savuti is famous for its mysterious and fascinating channel. It runs a distance of 100 kilometers from the Chobe River, through a gap in the sand ridge, to the Mababe Depression. Falling only approximately 18 meters, this channel brings water from the Chobe to Mababe, creating a small marsh where it enters the Depression. Flowing in Livingstone’s time, the channel was dry in 1880, and remained dry for about 70 years. It flooded again in 1957. Savuti Marsh has been dry for the past 18 years.
- Embark on an enthralling water safari through Botswana’s enchanting & Chobe National Park, where you’ll have the opportunity to spot magnificent wildlife such as hippos, leopards, giraffes, and crocodiles. All of this from the comfort of the luxurious Chobe River House Boat, which offers unmatched views from its private viewing deck
OVERVIEW
Itinerary at a glance
◽️ DAY 0 | Travel
Departure
◽️ DAY 1 | South Africa
Johannesburg arrival
◽️ DAY 2-4 | Botswana
Savute March
◽️ DAY 5-7 | Botswana
Moremi Game Reserve
◽️ DAY 8-10 | Botswana
Chobe River
◽️ DAY 11 | Return
End of safari
MAP
MAP
Visualize your journey!
DAY 0 | Dates to be updated
DEPARTURE
Travel
DEPARTURE
Your adventure starts now!
Embark on an African safari and anticipate witnessing breathtaking landscapes, encountering diverse and majestic wildlife in their natural habitats, and immersing yourself in the rich cultural experiences of the continent.
* See your safari itinerary for transfer logistics
DAY 1 | Dates to be updated
JOHANNESBURG
Overnight
📍 Africa Sky
AFRICA SKY
Guest House Overview
Dinner & Breakfast (drinks excl.)
Welcome to South Africa! Johannesburg (JNB / OR Tambo) Airport arrival with meet & greet service.
Your arrival night overnight accommodation: AfricaSky Boutique Hotel is conveniently located only 10 minutes from Johannesburg's O.R. Tambo International airport. A short drive will have you arriving at an oasis, rooms beautifully appointed and nestled in a peaceful lush garden. Enjoy dinner, bed & breakfast all on-site. True African hospitality and service excellence.
Just look out towards the information desk located in the arrivals hall for your pick-up with your name on it. 10 Minute road transfer to your overnight accommodation.
DINNER, B&B
GUEST HOUSE
OVERNIGHT
DAY 2-4 | Date to be updated
MOREMI GR (Okavango Delta)
Safari Days
📍 Camp Moremi
MOREMI GAME RESERVE
Area Overview
At the place where the life-giving waters of the Okavango Delta meet the vast plains of the Kalahari Desert, Mother Nature has created a sanctuary of Mopane forests, open grasslands, seasonal floodplains and riverine habitats, resulting in one of the most magnificent and welcoming animal environments in all of Africa! Encompassing the eastern side of the Okavango Delta, the Moremi Game Reserve includes permanent water as well as drier areas, creating beautiful and unexpected contrasts.
amed after Chief Moremi of the BaTawana tribe. Prominent geographical features in the Moremi are Chiefs Island and the Moremi Tongue. Moremi Game Reserve is a rich and diverse wildlife sanctuary, situated in the Okavango Delta. The reserve is unfenced, and its boundaries are defined by natural water systems. The vegetation is varied, with dry land complemented by permanent and seasonal swamplands, resulting in an excellent diversity of both wildlife and birdlife.
The Moremi Game Reserve, although not one of the largest parks, presents insights and views even for the most experienced of travelers. Home to nearly 500 species of bird (from water birds to forest dwellers), and a vast array of other species of wildlife, including buffalo, giraffe, lion, leopard, cheetah, hyaena, jackal, impala, and red lechwe. African Wild dog, Lycaon pictus, is resident and has been the subject of a project run in the area since 1989; thus this species is often seen wearing collars emplaced by researchers. The sitatunga and lechwe live in the papyrus banks of the waterways with lions, cheetahs and packs of wild dogs hunting in the open grassland. The Moremi Game Reserve is home to over 400 of the Okavango’s species of birds, including the African Fish Eagle, Crested Crane and Sacred Ibis. This vast array of mammal, bird, insect, plant, fish and reptile species have adapted to the Okavango Delta’s swamp conditions.
The northeast tip of Moremi, Khwai is an area where evergreen trees line wide floodplains. It boasts excellent density and diversity of both predator and prey species with leopard sightings consistently good. From an ontological perspective, Saddle-billed storks, wattled cranes and many species of kingfishers and bee-eaters are common. In the heart of Moremi, at the tip of the Mopane Tongue, lies the renowned Xakanaxa Lagoon comprising mopane forests and a patchwork of deep waterways and shallow flooded areas, creating a beautiful area packed with game. Leopard and cheetah are regularly seen and the density of antelope is notable. The area’s birdlife is exceptional.
ACTIVITIES
Twice daily game drives, Water based boat safaris & more!
Activity: Safari days!
Each day on safari in Africa is a magical experience, whether you’re exploring the savanna on foot or in a 4x4 vehicle in search of the Big 5 or taking to the sky in a hot-air balloon to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration. Every single day is steeped in the promise of a unique adventure and cherished memories.
Although each day is unpredictable to a certain extent, based on the time of year or location, there is a general format or schedule that safaris tend to follow, but, as a rule, safaris do follow a familiar rhythm that combines thrilling game viewing with ample time to relax in between—a dream vacation in anyone’s book. One rule of thumb is that there are usually two game drives a day: one in the early morning and one in the late afternoon, when animals are at their most active.
|
||||||||||||||||||||
CAMP MOREMI
Camp Overview
Located on the edge of a large palm-infringed lagoon, lies Camp Moremi. A small and welcoming safari lodge in the Okavango Delta's Moremi Game Reserve. Shaded by a variety of riverine trees, including lead-wood and jackal berry, it is set directly overlooking the peaceful Xakanaxa Lagoon.
The main living area is built in and around a grove of giant ebony trees and the tented rooms flank the lodge on both sides suspended on stilts along the water's edge.Particularly welcome in the heat of the day is a large swimming pool, which is raised on a wooden deck and kept in excellent condition. Shade is provided for the surrounding sun loungers by large canvas umbrellas.
The camp has 12 tented chalets, comfortable & rustic. The chalets are connected to the main area by a clearly marked dirt pathway. Raised off the ground on wooden decks, the chalets are pretty substantial, and are quite different in design and layout. In the bedroom, twin beds – or a double – sit beneath a wooden canopy draped with mosquito nets. All have private bathrooms on the same platform, slightly apart from the bedrooms and private balconies overlooking the lagoon and the Okavango Delta beyond.
ACTIVITIES:
Guest activities include morning and afternoon game drives throughout the many different ecosystems that the Moremi Game Reserve has to offer. The Moremi Game Reserve is renowned for exceptional wildlife sightings including lion, leopard, wild dog, elephant and exceptional general game.
Explore the Xakanaxa Lagoon and its surrounding channels by boat for a chance to enjoy the picturesque waters of the Okavango Delta, with its kaleidoscope of birdlife.
Morning transfer to local airstrip for your scheduled chartered flight into the heart of the Okavango Delta.* Airstrip meet & greet with road transfer to camp. Arrive for lunch, enjoy an afternoon siesta and get ready for the afternoon game viewing! *Please see your safari itinerary for details.
FULL BOARD
TENTED CAMP
GAME VIEW
DAY 5-7 | Date to be updated
SAVUTE (Chobe GR)
Safari Days
📍 Savute Safari Lodge
SAVUTE (Chobe Game Reserve)
Area Overview
This famous western corner of Chobe is one of Botswana's best-known wildlife areas. Savuti covers almost 5,000 km2 and includes the Savuti Marsh, Savute Channel, the Mababe Depression, and Magwikhwe Sand Ridge - each a result of the region's tectonic instability. The Savuti Marsh is the relic of a large inland lake, now fed by the erratic Savuti Channel.
The wild and enigmatic Savute region offers a different experience to the Chobe Riverside. Savute is synonymous with lions and hyenas. It also hosts a diverse range of predators and plains game species. Savute's pans, waterholes, and channel support a large population of bull elephants. Game-viewing conditions are better in the dry season. After the rains, the area transforms into lush grassland with thousands of zebras, wildebeest, and buffalo. The zebra-wildebeest migration is one of nature's great spectacles, attracting cheetah and providing a bounty for predators. The rocky areas around Savuti provide an excellent habitat for leopard and klipspringer antelope.
Safari days!
Each day on safari in Africa is a magical experience, whether you’re exploring the savanna on foot or in a 4x4 vehicle in search of the Big 5 or taking to the sky in a hot-air balloon to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration. Every single day is steeped in the promise of a unique adventure and cherished memories.
Although each day is unpredictable to a certain extent, based on the time of year or location, there is a general format or schedule that safaris tend to follow, but, as a rule, safaris do follow a familiar rhythm that combines thrilling game viewing with ample time to relax in between—a dream vacation in anyone’s book. One rule of thumb is that there are usually two game drives a day: one in the early morning and one in the late afternoon, when animals are at their most active.
|
||||||||||||||||||||
SAVUTE SAFARI LODGE
Camp Overview
Welcome to Savute Channel & Savute Marsh, located inside the Chobe Natonal Park! Situated on the banks of Botswana's fabled “Stolen River” the Savute Channel. This arid region of the Chobe is known for the enigmatic Savute Channel, large numbers of lions, open plains, the annual Zebra migration (usually around March) and baobab trees.
Savute is justly famous for its high concentrations of predators, and if you visit in summer (about November to March), you may be lucky enough to witness the Linyanti/Chobe zebra migration as well as enjoying amazing bird watching. The Chobe National Park stretches from the tip of northern Botswana to the fringes of the Okavango Delta. It has a wide range of distinctive landscapes, from the emerald floodplains of the Chobe River to the sweeping grasslands of the Savuti Marsh and skeletal leadwood trees in the Savuti Channel.At times flowing and other times dry, the channel forms part of a rich ecosystem renowned for its large concentrations of elephant, spotted hyena and lion - the latter two often being in brutal conflict over kills and territory - and the region is one of Botswana's premier game-viewing destinations.
The Lodge is situated on the banks of Botswana’s fabled “Stolen River”- the Savute Channel.
The main building is made of thatch and timber and has a lounge, library, and cocktail bar. It is nearby is the viewing deck, which is ideal for watching game at the waterhole below. The real drama, however, lies away from camp when you head out on early morning and late afternoon game drives in search of big game.
Savute Safari Lodge accommodates 24 guests in local timber and glass suites with cool thatching, beautifully furnished in fresh colors. All chalets have private decks, a combined bedroom / lounge area and en-suite facilities, which sets the lodge apart from typical safari accommodation. A viewing deck, al fresco dining area and swimming pool - ideal for watching game at the water hole. After dinner, enjoy a night-cap by the fire-side whilst viewing the bull elephants congregate at the waterhole.
ACTIVITIES:
Land based 4x4 game viewing!
Transfer to Savute by road or air*. Airstrip meet & greet followed by road transfer to camp. Arrive for lunch, enjoy an afternoon siesta and get ready for the afternoon game viewing! *Please see your safari itinerary for details.
FULL BOARD
TENTED CAMP
GAME VIEW
DAY 8-10 | Dates to be updated
CHOBE RIVER
Water based safari days!
📍 Chobe Princess House Boat
CHOBE RIVER
Chobe National Park includes two incredible wildlife areas: Chobe Riverfront and Savute. The Chobe River is one of Africa’s magical rivers, attracting animal of all sizes. Chobe also offers the highest density of elephants to be found anywhere in Africa, Chobe National Park is the ultimate safari destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Immerse yourself in nature's grandeur and witness the breathtaking spectacle of Chobe River's prolific wildlife, where majestic elephants roam freely, diverse bird species take flight, and unforgettable safari adventures await, making it a must-visit destination for every intrepid traveler.
The Chobe River forms its northern boundary and in the extreme south-west it borders the Moremi Game Reserve. The riverfront is a markable wildlife area due to the permanent water source of the Chobe River. Most wildlife activity occurs along the banks of the river - especially during the drier winter months (May – October) when animals congregate at the river to quench their thirst. The spectacle of all the animals coming to drink and frolic at the water's edge is a sight to behold! Birding enthusiasts will find the riverfront a fantastic destination at this time with more than 400 species of birds, including migratory species and numerous birds of prey.
All that said, Chobe National Park is most famous for its elephant and buffalo populations, both of which can herd in mammoth proportions. With an estimated 40,000 to 60,000 elephants, these gentle giants constantly surround you.
The park's picturesque wetlands also attract a wide variety of bird life, with the chance to see numerous species among the 460 that call this place home or pass through, including raptors, vultures, and waterfowl.Head out on a sunrise game drive to observe the animals at the beginning of their day, when they are most active. You might even spot a leopard returning from a hunt.When you return to your luxury accommodations at the lodge in the evening, take pleasure in the comforts it offers, gather for dinner, and share stories about your day.
CHOBE PRINCESS
House Boat Overview
Full board, excl. premium drinks
Take your Chobe River game viewing experience to another level! With no set itinerary and only a small number of guests per boat, staying here feels like being on your own houseboat – and a very well appointed one! .
Cruising along the Chobe River (Chobe NP) at a leisurely pace with ever-changing landscapes is an exclusive and unique experience! Give your safari an edgy flavor and include a stay on a beautiful house boat -the perfect end to your trip! Game viewing from the water provides a different perspective to wildlife behavior and the fishing opportunities are a dream come true for any avid fisherman!
Each cabin is tastefully decorated in a contemporary style, and each has its own private view onto the ever-changing landscapes beyond.As you lie on your king-sized bed, spot an elephant grazing on the riverbank nearby, or see a fish eagle diving for its prey. On the upper entertainment deck, a spacious lounge and bar area encourages you to take time out while there’s also a plunge pool that’s perfect for a refreshing dip. After a day spent doing as you please, fall asleep with the calls of hyena or even a lion drifting through the open doors of your cabin.The house boat has a minimum of 2 smaller “tender” boats for use on daily excursions.
A major attraction of the area is the elephants, whose resident population is estimated to be over 120,000. Over 450 bird species found in this wetland paradise, try your hand at landing a tiger fish, or capture Africa’s unique beauty on a photographic safari. Whatever you choose to do, your day trips will be personal and flexible because you’ll be sharing the tender boats with a small number of guests. Alternatively, simply laze on a deck chair with an ice-cold drink in hand as you soak up the tranquillity that surrounds you.
Kasane Airport or Kasane Immigration point pick up is followed by motorized boat transfer to the Namibian Immigration Office to get your passport stamped; proceed to the boat. Get ready to be amazed! See your safari itinerary for transfer logistics
Morning pick up followed by 1.5hr road transfer to Kasane Immigration point in Botswana - Arrive at Kasane Immigration Point between 1pm-2pm foe meet & greet by houseboat representative. Next, transfers by small tender boat from Kasane immigration via Impalila Island immigration or customs clearance. The boat transfer is about 20 minutes. Please take note of Passpoert requitement & of empty Visa page requirement as well as unabridges birth certificate requirements for minors
FULL BOARD
HOUSE BOAT
GAME VIEW
DAY 11 | Dates to be updated
RETURN
DEPARTURE
Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end! Goodbye to the safari life, feeling relaxed, mesmerizing scenery, great food, family time, and romantic memories.
Morning road transfer back to the airport for your outbound flight... dreaming of the trip of a lifetime!
TRAVEL INFO
◽️ Preparing for your trip
PREPARING FOR YOUR
SAFARI
Pre-Travel Information
Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the return date of your arrangements and have a minimum of three blank visa pages excluding endorsement pages. Travellng with minors - in addition to having a valid passport and valid visa (if applicable), children under the age of 18, traveling through Botswana’s borders, must be in possession of a certified copy of their unabridged birth certificate (one that shows the particulars of a minor and those of both parents). A child under the age of 18 traveling to Botswana and/or South Africa with just one parent must carry an affidavit signed by the other parent consenting to such travel. Failure to produce the necessary documentation may result in travelers being turned away at port of entry. Insider Tips Zimbabwe and Mozambique visas each use up a full passport page. If you are visiting both countries we recommend a minimum of four blank pages. Post Covid passport renewals are taking much longer than in the past so don’t leave applying for a new passport until the last moment as there iust a chance you won’t receive it in time to travel. Keeping your passport safe is key as there is nothing worse than having to spend precious holiday time replacing it. Make at least two copies of the ID page of your passport, visa (if obtained in advance of travel), Covid-19 vaccine passport, travel itinerary, travel insurance, credit cards and any other travel documentation. One copy can be an image scan and the other a hard copy which you can give to a family member, business associate or close friend for safekeeping When it comes to health risks and medical precautions, Machaba Blue is only able to offer limited advice as outlined below. Those with underlying chronic conditions should ideally seek medical advice prior to planning their journey. Prior to traveling to Africa, we highly recommend you visit a medical professional such as your GP or local travel clinic for advice on what health precautions need to be taken. This visit should take place at least 4-8 weeks prior to departure as it will determine the need for any vaccinations and/or antimalarial medication as well as identifying any other medical precautions. Currently no mandatory vaccinations are required when entering Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and South Africa. Please check if this is still the case when visiting your GP or travel clinic. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required by visitors coming from a country where yellow fever occurs, or if they have been in transit for more than 12 hours at an airport in a country here yellow fever occurs. Malaria is present throughout southern Africa and in certain areas of South Africa. Insider Tips ____________ * As indicated on your detailed safari itinerary ____________ * Unless otherwise indicated on your itineraryPASSPORTS
HEALTH
VISAS
GRATUITIES
PACKING LIST
BAGGAGE
TRAVEL INSURANCE
SAFETY GUIDELINES
INCLUDED
EXCLUDED
PAPERWORK
PASSPORTS
- Email or Whatsapp a clear color copy of your passport
- Expiration date valid at least 6 months past return dates
- Please check the number of blank Visa pages required by each country
CONTRACT
- Download the Safari Contract
- Take a picture with your phone of the first & last page and email back
- Include APPENDIX C / Indemnity for each person going on the safari
GUEST INFORMATION
- Download the Guest Information sheet
- Fill out for each person going on the safari and email back