11 Jun 2017

First time visitors to the Okavango Delta stand to be excused of question why the delta is not listed as one of the seven natural wonders of the world, which among those, known to us, are the Victoria Falls and Mount Everest.

This is because there is no doubt the delta is one of the most spectacular natural wonders.

For me, a first time visitor to the delta, the three-day stay there was unique and an everlasting memory, a discovery that Botswana is endowed with so much.

The trip, organised by Wilderness Safari for five journalists to appreciate the beauty of this country, was worth it.

One of the most memorable events was watching the sun set; it was though the sun was sinking into the water on the other side of the massive water body.

At that moment I had a strong admiration of our forefathers for ensuring proper management of the delta as it stands out globally when compared to other areas in world.

The site, which had been listed as a World Heritage sites, makes the North West region worthy of international recognition and attention because of its uniqueness.

The delta, which is the only mega inland delta in Sub-Saharan Africa, remain outstanding in terms of its natural processes, high species concentration and habitat diversity within a large protected area.

The delta’s natural, cultural, historic, and ancient resources were some of the cohesive pictures that really made the trip worthwhile.

The few days we spent with the two officers from Wilderness were jam-packed with numerous thrilling activities.

From the airstrip to the TLC campsite, where we discovered the lush riverine woodlands of the Linyanti River and its wildlife-filled floodplains was a fantastic discovery.

That was the place where we spent the first night. Before we reached the place we had a stop-over at Kings Pool camp, which stands out as a sparkling oxbow-shaped lagoon framed with reeds and punctuated by occasional elephants movements traversing the water.

As we walked into the Kings Pool, little did I know I was about to get a whole new perspective on environment change; amazing vegetation, facilities and sculptures that all tell different versions of various stories within the region.

The road to Linyanti camp was far from smooth, it was bumpy one punctuated by occasional switching off of the engine to allow elephants to cross.

The intention was to reach the place before sunset, but that proved impossible as we came across a troop of dark-coloured elephants with their calves from Namibia crossing the river into Botswana. 

From a layman point of view, they were running away from something as they came rushing in large numbers, making the area impassable just after the Botswana Defence Force Camp.

As though to meant to calm our nerves from the watching the seemingly troubled herds of elephants fleeing from some enemy, the entourage stopped for some snack, which we had in a glumorous structure; more like a kraal made up of big tree stumps.

One of the trip organisers, Lesh Moiteela explained that the area just by the river bank was a stop-over for tourists who would watch elephants from a close range.

He explained that over 2 000 troops of elephants normally pass by the area.

On arrival at TLC/Linyanti camp, we were welcomed by a fresh aroma of fresh flowers, green vegetation and coolness of an atmosphere in an area covered with foliage.

Coming from congested areas of Maun and skyscrapers of Gaborone, it was a unique experience to be in an open space, surrounded by trees, fresh air and melodious songs from birds.

Since day one in Linyanti, we have been woken up by the chorus of birds, hippos and movement of elephants passing by our luxurious tents, but were informed that we were in the land of elephants and the advice was to stay calm and quiet if we hear any of the animals passing by.

Although it was a nice experience, at the same time it was scary to hear and see from a close range a hippo or elephant grazing in front of the rooms.

Having the chance to interact with the camp’s resident troop of African elephants ensured an unforgettable Botswana safari experience.

The following day we headed to the pristine Xigera concession at a camp on a remote island deep in the Okavango Delta.

That was the time where we really enjoyed the thrill of flying over the Delta in a helicopter and appreciating the beauty of the feature.

One of the things that make Xigera special is the unique arrival into camp by boat.

Wilderness Safaris is synonymous with luxury safari camps in the heart of Botswana, and has long been one of the main players in the delicatchite environmental management of this pristine wildlife region.

Indeed the safari offers the highest standards of service throughout their African safari operations and eco-friendly camps and lodges. ENDS