25 Aug 2021

 Exploring the Okavango Delta using a traditional canoe (mokoro) has created some lasting memories for an international adventurer, Mr Johannes Johannes of Switzerland.

In an interview, Mr Johannes said he had travelled to countries such as Namibia and South Africa and this time, he decided to visit Botswana, particularly the Okavango Delta, where he was taken on a traditional canoe trip by one of the polers at Boro mokoro station for 18 days, to appreciate the beauty of the delta.

He said he learnt from social media that he delta had been listed as the 1000^th  World Heritage Site, hence the trip to Botswana to appreciate the beauty of the famous resource.

He pointed out that visiting strange and wonderful places for the first time was indeed a unique experience, noting that his trip to Botswana was worth it, as he learnt many things.

“Trying something new is always exciting and my first trip in a mokoro was a life time experience, as I found the beauty and excitement of the water paradise captivating,” he said. 

Mr Johannes appreciated safari by boat, saying it was an excellent way of understanding the delta’s vastness, noting that paddling through the tall reeds in silence and peacefulness mesmerised him.

Getting closer to hippos, elephants, crocodiles and seeing brightly coloured birds and pretty water lilies in a mokoro, he said, spiced his expedition as it was the first time to see such big animals at close range.

He said he was also inspired to learn that the mekoro had long been central in the lives of the locals as traditionally, people used them as a mode of transport. Besides the water activities, he stated that he was also fascinated by the abundant wildlife and the beautiful landscaping, which seemed not influenced by mankind, unlike in other countries.

Mr Johannes described the delta as one of the best places to go on safari, adding that it was impressive as many of the safari activities in the delta centred around the water.

He said in addition to  water activities, visitors could also explore the area in game viewing vehicles and on bush walks.

Botswana, he said was indeed a fly in destination, stating that he was impressed by the choice of accommodation options from top class hotels, luxury lodges and safari camps as well as interaction with members of the communities.

Meeting people from different walks of life, Mr Johannes said could be exciting and life changing. 

He said he had an opportunity to mingle with some members of the community at Shakawe, who shared beautiful and inspiring stories, their passion and commitment to  make ends meet and feed families.

Most of the people he met, he said were single mothers who were still attached to the traditional ways of making a living, with some operating mekoro, while others were into fishing and gathering of wild fruits.

“Botswana has a lot to offer and I am very impressed about what I saw. I learnt a lot about people’s lifestyles and their rich cultures,” he added.

Mr Johannes wished other international tourists could visit Botswana to appreciate the delta, have fun and peace of mind. His stay in delta, he said was one of the most fun-filled adventures of his life.

Travelling is more than just visiting places and taking pictures, it brings out new ideas and perspective, he said. ENDS