A Spectacular Green Season Safari in Botswana – Another Unforgettable Journey
What an extraordinary trip once again! Our latest adventure through Botswana’s Okavango Delta, Kalahari Desert, and Nxai Pan during the lush green season was nothing short of breathtaking. Every moment was expertly orchestrated, and the magic of Africa unfolded before us in the most spectacular ways.
A Warm Welcome to Mma Dinare
Our journey began with a seamless flight to Moremi, where our wheeled bags, thankfully, fit perfectly into the hold. Upon arrival, we were greeted by our expert Guide, Grass, and Tracker, TT, and whisked away to Mma Dinare. The warm welcome set the tone – staff singing joyfully, cooling towels refreshing us, and a chilled drink in hand. The camp itself is simply stunning, with picturesque views and an intimate, luxurious ambiance.
Despite being the only guests on the first night and among just a few on the following nights, the staff never wavered in their dedication. Every meal was prepared with care, with special attention to a delightful vegetarian option, and the service remained impeccable.
The game drives were phenomenal. With our own vehicle for each excursion, we had unparalleled opportunities to observe the diverse wildlife that thrives in the Okavango Delta. The vibrant greenery, swollen waterways, and an abundance of animal activity made this a truly immersive safari experience.
The Unexpected Gem – Nxai Pan
Nothing could have prepared us for the magic of Nxai Pan. For some reason, we hadn’t expected this camp to stand out quite as much, but it turned out to be the best of the trip! As soon as we stepped into the lounge area, our eyes were drawn to the waterhole – an absolute spectacle of wildlife in motion.
Elephants, zebra, giraffe, and buffalo congregated in staggering numbers, creating an awe-inspiring scene we could hardly tear ourselves away from. Sitting in our room that first afternoon, we watched in amazement as a herd of elephants thundered toward the waterhole, followed closely by a massive herd of buffalo – a scene we’d only ever witnessed on television. It was surreal.
The hospitality at Nxai Pan was second to none. Hildah runs the camp to perfection, and her warm, personal touch made all the difference. Every meal was presented beautifully, with an exquisite variety of freshly cooked food. The team’s effort, despite us being the only guests, made us feel incredibly special.
Our guide, MD, was exceptional. One particularly thrilling moment unfolded when he noticed three giraffes staring intently in one direction – a clear sign of predator activity. Sure enough, we followed their gaze to discover a freshly killed giraffe, where two female lions (one heavily pregnant) and two cubs were feasting. It was a profound and humbling sight, a raw glimpse into the circle of life in the wild.
On our final night at Nxai Pan, we were treated to a private farewell dinner in our room, served with such warmth and kindness by two of the lovely staff members. It was a deeply touching and memorable experience.
A Slight Hiccup – Unexpected Detour to Maun
Our only real complaint? Our flight pick-up didn’t go as expected. Instead of flying directly to Tau Pan as planned, we had to make a two-and-a-half-hour detour back to Maun for refueling and an additional pick-up. It wasn’t ideal, but hey, that’s all part of the adventure!
Tau Pan – Wild Beauty and Thunderstorms
Tau Pan, perched with panoramic views over the Kalahari, was once again a fantastic camp. The landscape, vast and dramatic, felt even more alive with the rolling thunderstorms that occasionally swept through. These storms, however, led to intermittent electricity outages, which, while understandable in the middle of the African wilderness, left the camp feeling slightly less well-maintained compared to the others.
Our experience was overwhelmingly positive, thanks largely to our outstanding Driver/Guide, Vasco, and Tracker, PK. Their knowledge, sharp instincts, and good humor made every game drive an adventure. Though we had to share vehicles for most of our time here, we finally had private drives on our last day and a half, which made for a perfect end to our stay.
Another Safari to Remember
Once again, this safari exceeded our expectations. From the lush landscapes of the Okavango Delta to the bustling waterholes of Nxai Pan and the untamed beauty of the Kalahari, every moment was unforgettable. Amanda, your impeccable planning and expertise ensured that we had the trip of a lifetime—again! We can’t wait to see where our next adventure takes us.
Until next time, Botswana!
Julia and Phil travelled to see the desert and Zebra migration during the Green Season in Botswana in February – contact us to create a similar trip for lasting memories!
