44 independent reviews for Botswana camping safaris
Reviews for Botswana camping safaris
Graham Pither review 9 Oct 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The whole holiday was memorable. We loved the walking safaris in the Okavango Delta and all of the wild camping. We heard and saw a huge amount of wildlife and really felt a part of it. It was great to fall asleep listening to the sounds of lions, elephants, frogs, leopards, hippos and baboons amongst other creatures and then waking in the morning to find and identify the footprints around our camp. Seeing the tenderness of lions towards each other close up was beautiful as were the social interactions of a number of other animals and the range of colourful birds was amazing . We were also really lucky to see 2 large packs of painted dogs. The guides were excellent, informative and very friendly and the food cooked in camp was superb. The optional excursions we took were great and gave a different perspective of our surroundings. And then at the end it was good to see Victoria Falls, which were impressive even though they were far from being in full flow, and to relax by the Zambezi.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Get involved in helping out around camp and have some binoculars. Then watch and listen to everything around you.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
It seemed to do so, with local polers and guides employed in the Okavango Delta, visiting a locally operated Rhino sanctuary with the profits going to the local communities, the Save our Sausage trees projects and using locally owned and staffed operators elsewhere in Botswana. The camp sites were tidied when we left and we refilled our water bottles to reduce the amount of plastic used.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
This was an excellent holiday, where we saw so much wildlife with us often being the only people there to see it! Everything ran to plan, the guides and drivers were brilliant and we had a fantastic time.Brian Wells review 15 Sep 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Wild camping in the Okavango Delta. Traveling to the campsite by Mokoro canoes and walking safaris from the campsite.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Wild campsites only have basic facilities. Make sure you know what these are and that the trip is right for you.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Definitely. Local people were employed through the trip and supplies were bought from local shops.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
An amazing adventure. The guides were fantastic and worked incredibly hard throughout.Bevin Sunth review 13 Aug 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The most memorable part of my trip was the incredible wildlife viewing. Not only did we see the Big Five, but we also saw so much more. Staying in the heart of the Okavango Delta, surrounded by wild animals, was a truly surreal and unforgettable experience.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
To make the most of your trip, I highly recommend a few things. First, bring your own pillow for a more comfortable night's sleep. Second, and most importantly, put your trust in your guides—they are experts and will ensure you have a fantastic time.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
I definitely felt that this holiday had a positive impact. We learned that tourism is a major source of income for many communities in the region, particularly in Zimbabwe. We also saw firsthand how our tour operator works with local people in Botswana to purchase fiberglass mokoros, which are the traditional canoes you'll use on your trip. It was great to know our journey was supporting the local economy.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Overall, I would rate this holiday as unforgettable. I can't wait to go back and experience it all again!Cait Bleakley review 11 Aug 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The memories we created with the group, who all became our friends2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Book now! You get so much more out of camping compared to the accommodated stays.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes it felt very ethical, and we supported various businesses along the way4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
10/10Catherine Marshall review 27 Jul 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The safari guided walks in Okovango delta.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
The 12kg maximum luggage was not essential, there are no washing machines on the way so important to have enough clean clothes.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, local guides were employed by the company.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
FantasticAntony Wilshaw review 29 Jun 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The game walk was a real thrill, seeing lions and elephants while on foot in the wild.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
This isn’t a holiday, it’s an adventure. Be prepared to help out and enjoy it.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
I would hope so yes and everyone was so friendly.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
The holiday was great and something I’ve never experienced before. I’d also like to shout out my guide Marcus who took great care of us.Davina Greeves review 3 Jun 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Such amazing wildlife. It would be hard to pick the most memorable, perhaps being so close to a lioness with her three cubs.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Pack light but bring a good torch (my pocket torch was a bit limited) and camera with zoom lens.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
The campsites we stayed at and Okavango Delta trip benefitted the local villages. The toilets at wild camps were dug into the ground, water use was limited and we refilled at taps where possible.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
It was an incredible experience and I feel very lucky to have had this opportunity.Jenny Wells review 22 May 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
It's difficult to pick out one part...the whole trip was wonderful. The landscapes were stunning and the variety and abundance of animals and birds was amazing. We enjoyed journeying between different campsites and camp life was great fun with a lovely group of like-minded people. Our guides were generous with their knowledge of the environment and were super-skilled in all areas of safari life from making camp, to cooking, driving and spotting animals.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Leave all your luxuries at home and embrace camp life - early starts and bucket showers! Work as a team with your fellow guests and guides and enjoy being 'off-grid'.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Local people were employed in the Okavango Delta to guide us and steer the mokoros. Our other guides on the tour were either Botswanan or from neighbouring Zimbabwe. I felt the wild camping element reduced the environmental impact of the trip considerably. When we left camp the guides were diligent in ensuring we left no traces of human activity; even the ashes from the fire had to be buried. The driver was very respectful towards the animals we were viewing in the parks, keeping to designated tracks and balancing their needs with those of the photographers in the group. We were given information about the 'Save the Sausage Tree' charity which we were happy to support.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Definitely 5 stars. A truly wonderful experience.Hugh Anderson review 27 Apr 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Experiencing Africa in the wild and seeing so many wonderful animals.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Don’t be daunted by the camping. It’s fun and exciting3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes in all aspects and the people were appreciative of our presence4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
FantasticMich Verbelen review 20 Apr 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
walking with the experienced Poler guide amidst the animals at Okavango2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
forget your comfort, and go for the real life. Enjoy3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
absolutely!4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
10. We had an unforgettable journeyAmber Taylor review 5 Jan 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Having an amazing encounter with wild dogs.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Pitch in, be tolerant and accepting. Enjoy every moment.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes. Our host company supported local projects which was important to me. Our group made sure we tipped and gave what we could locally.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
All the guides were exceptional with their knowledge and care.Robert Cooksley review 7 Aug 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Chobe river trip, okavango seeing wild dogs2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Take a head torch and a power bank essential.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes especially the polers in okavango.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
I think for us 9 out of 10, we were not given enough time at zambia falls and went to a restuarant with bad service rather than go straight to hotel.Laetitia Hoste review 9 Dec 2024
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The safaris of course, the kindness and warm approach of the people towards us and an overall impression of freedom in the nature.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Be prepared physically to start this kind of adventure and mentally to a great change.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes I am conscious that all the benefit goes to the local organisations and the personel although there is still a lot of unemployment. There is a great respect for the environment and conservation.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Exceptional! The experience of life time!Helen McAlpin review 27 Oct 2024
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Best camping - Okavango (because of the location AND the polers).2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Pay attention to the expected temperatures. We experience high 30s. Too hot. Also the drives are longer than expected. You give expected travel times, but it was always longer. Also, in retrospect I would have preferred to have flown to Maun. The 2 long days of driving were horrible, especially in the heat. We only had about 20 minutes of rhino viewing at the Kharma Rhino Sanctuary and it wasn't worth the effort.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, that was a real positive!4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Loved it overall. It was at the outer edge of tolerable though, because of the heat.Alexandra Bromhead review 15 Sep 2024
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Watching lions chase an impala into the delta, only for the impala to be taken by a crocodile, all within 30 metres of the wild camp.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
The first night is in a different climate belt than the rest of the tour, bring warm gear for the low night-time temperature at the start of the trip.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
The tour benefited local people and supported conservation. There is room for improvement on reducing the waste generated, but the wild camping leaves no trace on the environment - which is great.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Immense!Peter Cyffka review 11 Aug 2024
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
So close to animals, e.g. lions and leopards as close as two meters away from our open sided safari vehicle!2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
This is a participatory camping safari. Be prepared to pitch in, and be prepared to rough it a bit.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, benefitted local people.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Fantastic! So glad we did this, and that we did it camping, it really was an immersive experience.Janice Eastman review 5 Feb 2024
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Being 2 metres from a male Lion calling to its brother.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Take a fly swat!3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
We supported local villages, with purchasing goods and donating any left over food. However there was a lot of driving involved4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
AMAZINGHarriet Ransome-Thompson review 5 Feb 2024
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Bush camping in the okavango delta2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Take a pillow!3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Great holiday with great people. Well organised and varied.Caroline Perry review 31 Oct 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The journey into the Okavango Delta, seeing so much wildlife .2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
It’s a very full on trip with many hours travelling, very hot be prepared.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Our guide Brian was absolutely wonderful his contribution and a great group of travellers made it a fantastic trip.Brian Read review 17 Sep 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The whole thing!2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Be aware of the early mornings, and also give yourself an extra day in Johannesburg so that any delays in the flights do not mean you miss the start of the journey (which is what happened to us)3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, very much so. All the guides where "local" , and we where encouraged to shop locally. Also the guides where aware of the impact of plastics etc.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Fabulous. Thoroughly recommended.Kim Tanner review 13 Aug 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The proximity to wild animals in their natural environment.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Warm clothes for winter.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
We came away more educated and aware of the local people, cultures and environment. Local people were employed throughout the trip. We learnt a great deal from them.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
A once in a lifetime opportunity.Jennie White review 6 Aug 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Staying in the camps at Okavango Delta and Moremi National Park, being so close to nature was amazing. The 4 hour safari walk was a particular favourite.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
A camara with a zoom is really great if you want some close ups of the animals. Phone camaras are great but often the zooms are limited. If you go in the winter make sure you have enough layers for the early morning game drives.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, we talked to a number of local people who explained how Covid had impacted them and how glad they were to see visitors coming back. Particularly in the okavango delta where the mokoro polers were gathered to take us all to our camp.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
I would give it 10 out of 10 without any hesitation. The guides were all very knowledgeable, helpful, humorous and inclusive, the accommodation was great throughout, the food was really tasty and varied, the wildlife was amazing. We thoroughly enjoyed it all :)Ann Taylor review 11 Jun 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Sleeping out in the wilds with elephants and hippos munching next to us and the game drives with such a knowledgeable guide. However it’s hard to say as everything was memorable and exciting!2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Just do it! One of the most amazing experiences of my life. Remember that you are part of a team doing this together. Wild camping is all part of the experience.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes to benefited local people and supported conservation. Flying to Africa and around Africa is not the most environmentally friendly holiday but the tour operator was trying to be as environmentally friendly as possible.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Our guides were great, the safari drives incredible. An out of the ordinary holiday which Chris, our guide, always referred to as an adventure. Our group was quite diverse but we all got on well and gelled around ‘The adventure’Anne Browne review 31 May 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
All of it! The game drives were the most exciting so much incredible wildlife to see.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Be prepared for 'a get up and go safari' . But it's the only way to see so many different habitats and so many animals. A willingness to muck in and help - many hands make light work.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes definitely helped the tribespeople of the Okavango delta. They were lovely and very open to explaining how important our visit and money was to them and their families.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent. Far exceeded my expectations. The guides were superb. So friendly and knowledgable, we knew we were in safe and expert hands.Mahesh Krishnamurthy review 16 Apr 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Camping and the drives.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Be prepared to be surprised and be very flexible.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Perfect value for money.Rabia Osman review 16 Jan 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Amazing experience wild camping , Okavango walking Safari’s ,saw the big 5 , lots of young animals …. Was amazing2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Head torch , power banks for phones if using for photos , something warm for early mornings and evenings and a waterproof as well as a pair of long trousers . Also to gave enough money for tips which are very hefty and not included …3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Not sure4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Superb holiday if not over priced - if accommodation at the end had been superior, then would have been ok in terms of value for money.Chris Warren review 30 Oct 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
A Leopard walked through the camp 1 night. Also Elephants broke down the fence at night at Victoria Falls Waterfront Hotel.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Pack less clothes than you think, take extra camera/phone batteries as charging is sometimes difficult. Charging power-packs also a problem with a max size group. Take a Shewee or Bottle for nightime. Be prepared for the unexpected.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Definitely all 3!4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
11 out of 10! Especially because of the Guides, Brian & Jame and the wizzo cook-Mello.Louise Siraj review 14 Aug 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The whole trip was filled with memorable moments! It was such a privilege to be guests of the Delta Bushmen in the Okavango and to be on foot for "nature walks" and travel by mokoro along the tranquil channels. Our guides were incredible. The leader, Brian, was exceptional, always well organised and patient and produced incredible meals for us on a campfire and gas ring; Moses was so knowledgeable and a brilliant tracker. Both of them found us incredible and memorable animal experiences which we will treasure for ever! Lister, our camp assistant worked tirelessly and cheerfully to make sure we were comfortable in camp, and baked amazing bread on the fire. The bush camping was amazing (though exhausting). We were a blessed group and had the most wonderful game viewing you can imagine, due in no small part to the skill and instinct of our guides. We cannot praise them highly enough.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Be prepared for long, bumpy drives. Do bring some warm clothes for the early starts as it is an open vehicle and it can get quite chilly. Setting up and breaking camps frequently is tiring but after a few days you get into a good routine. It helps to have a main bag left in the truck and just have enough stuff for a couple of nights at a time in the tent. Don't take too much stuff, you can wear the same things for a few days. But do take a pair of long trousers for the walking safaris in the Delta.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
The trip actively supports the local communities, eg the Delta bushmen directly benefitted from the stay on their land. The Save Our Sausage Tree project is effective at protecting a special part of the landscape. The fixed camps were run by local commmunities. The local guides all had tips paid directly. Botswana has a small population and tourism is an increasingly important part of their economy.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Amazing, incredible and filled with unforgettable experiences. As a couple who are now in our sixties and had not done any adventure travel since before children, we weren't sure how we would cope. Yes, it is tiring, but it is exhilarating and we shared so much with our fellow travellers that will live with us for ever. I am already looking at which one we could do next!Richard Webb review 10 Jul 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
How do you choose between the adrenalin rush of encountering a herd of around 20 elephants on a walking safari in the Okavango, finding yourself encircled by ten lions in Savuti, being looked at straight in the eye by a leopard in Moremi or the absolute peace and serenity of floating in a mokoro watching hippo and elephant.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
When it comes to packing - less is better. You really don't need much in the way of clothes, but in July it did get chilly in the evenings. There were a few concerns in the family about the wild camping toilet facilities, but completely unfounded as they were much cleaner and more hygenic than most public toilets and with some of the best views of any toilets in the world!!3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes absolutely. Employing the local mokoro polers and guides in the Okavango Delta, and an incredibly knowledgable local guide for Moremi, Savuti and Chobe. All the local guides / polers are passionate about their environment and made absolutely certain that after we had packed away our campsites, that absolutely no evidence of us having stayed was left behind. Our guides were meticulous in not staying too long at a sighting if close to the animals, and if there was any signs of nervousness or the animals being uncomfortable with our presence, they would drive away. They showed the animals complete respect - and recognised that we were visitors in their environment.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
So many unique and incredible experiences as those described above as well as the wild camping - listening to the calls of hyena and lions at night and waking up in the morning to find their footprints through the campsite and an elephant wandering through the site during the day. The knowledge and professionalism of the guides meant that at no time did we feel in any danger, despite living in such close proximity to the animals. Outstanding - one of the best holidays we have ever had (or as the guides kept reminding us - "it's not a holiday - it's an adventure").Deb Piranian review 15 May 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Spending time on the land, camping and doing game walks. Seeing the morning and evening light. The guides and a good group of fellow travelers. The 3 day trip in the mokoros in the Okavango Delta.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
The operator hired local guides to supplement the guide who was with us the whole time. So we gave employment to local people. Good attention to treating the environment as well as possible. Respect for the land.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent trip. The guides made the difference: a wonderful mix of knowledge, great attention to safety without unduly scaring us, humor, warmth, and friendliness.Samantha Bennett review 5 Oct 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Most memorable: Difficult - each area had its moments but I think the area of the Delta, with the polers and Jeremiah was beautiful. Having a shower with a few elephants watching us from 200m away was an experience! That and being pestered by a huge dung beetle flying around my head while in the bushy bushy. Most exciting: Again with the polers, being in our makoro and hearing two hippos grunting and chasing each other in the long grasses next to us. Suddenly the very quiet and calm polers starting shouted and poling frantically! We laughed in the end!2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Leave at home your usual habits, open your mind, be prepared for any eventuality and live the experience.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, definitely.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
5 star experience, including changing tyres and pushing the jeep in deep sand and coming out red and dirty! And the help and organisation from the first moment we contacted responsible travel and the operator was also without fault. We felt very secure in our choice from the word go and that continued through the first meeting on the first day, right through to the end. Will definitely recommend this operator to others.Johannah Stretton review 8 Sep 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Camping out in the wild , hearing the hippos splashing in the water outside our camp in the Okovango Delta, the wonderful game drives. It was all wonderful2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
This is a great trip , if you enjoy camping and value being in the wilderness amongst the wildlife rather than the comforts of a lodge then this is the trip for you3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
I hope so, we had local guides in the Okavango and we trust that this helps their local economy . We also visited the Khama rhino conservation centre which has done good conservation work . Responsible tourism ( which I feel describes this trip ) also supports the African economies and thereby the African peolpe4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Amazing , we all had a wonderful time. Our guides were first class in both their knowledge of the wildlife and environment and on their professionalism.Brendan Murphy review 17 Aug 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Memories are many and varied - Victoria Falls was spectacular. The wildlife - Elephants, Lions, Hippos, Crocodiles and a Leopard to name just a few. Wild camping and the animal noises in the night. The guides (Ali & Jami) were knowledgeable and passionate about Africa. The blood red sunsets are like nothing you have ever seen before. The night sky unaffected by light pollution. The semi organised chaos of the border crossings. The silence in the mokoro canoes going through the Okavango delta. The diverse group of nationalities and ages who bonded very well - the seat rotation policy made sure everybody mixed well.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Be prepared for long and dusty drives - some in the early morning can be cold so I would recommend bringing a fleece and a buff. Phone cameras are perfectly adequate - others in the group with more professional cameras have shared some truly amazing photos. Definitely would recommend binoculars. Local currency was a minor issue on this trip - Cards are accepted in most towns and at the fixed campsites. US dollars are also widely accepted and easily exchanged. The biggest problem was knowing how much needed to be changed to local currency and i would advise pressing your guides on this matter.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes. Shopping was done in local shops en route. Meals were plentiful but nothing was wasted and excess food was given to local people in need. Tips for the polers in the Okavango delta were distributed in front of us and everybody was included. The new school in their village was great to see. The two vehicles used - the "big red elephant" and the open safari jeep were proportionate to the route we took. The parks and reserves seem well managed and wildlife is thriving.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
A fabulous holiday. The wildlife on its own would make for a great holiday. The variety of scenery and cultures just adds to it. Full participation in the camp is good fun. Even the odd cold morning, the dust, one grumpy immigration official and the infamous "bushy bushy" helps make for a unique holiday.Michael Thompson review 29 Jul 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Seeing the animals at very very close quarters, led by very knowledgeable guides.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Just do it - it is fabulous.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes. We camped for 2 days with the dugout canoe poles and they were effusive about the benefits to their community. All the guides were very environmentally conscientious in everything they did. Lots of the explanations were about ecology and conservation.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Best holiday we have ever had. It was an amazing experienceSara Marques review 20 Jun 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The whole safari experience was simply incredible, game drives were really exciting and we saw a lot of animals in the wild. But the most memorable moment was when we spotted a leopard at a distance and we approached it with the vehicle, everyone was absolutely silent, it was just us and the leopard and all we could hear was cameras shooting and the animal's breath, truly unforgettable! Also loved the fact that we were able to visit Victoria Falls National Park, a real wonder of nature.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Be open minded and have group spirit. Our group was a mix of ages and nationalities but everyone was willing to help and interact and we got along very well. When you spend 2 weeks with the same people this is really a big part of your experience. And as our guides used to tell us, anything is possible in Africa, have high expectations and no guarantees, what you see is what you get. Each day was a new and different experience regardless of what we found on the way. Some practical tips: on this trip you should not forget your binoculars, a torch for walking at night and take clothes for hot and cold weather since early mornings and nights are really chilly but during the day it can get very hot.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Since Botswana has very few people and this trip was more safari-oriented, we didn't really contact much with communities. However, I think there were efforts to benefit local people such as choosing local guides and lodges/campings run by locals. We were also asked to support some of the local environmental projects.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent! All the organization, guides, facilities and food lived up to our expectations. Would definitely travel again with this tour operator.Read the operator's response here:
Hi Sara, thank you for the great review, and we are so glad to hear that you had a good trip.
Many thanks
Annaïg Soulabaille review 6 May 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
I can't choose. All was exciting. The scenic view above Okavango delta, Moremi reserve game, Savuti, Chobe and Victoria Falls. Game Walk (in the delta) and all the Game Drives...2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Binoculars are essential !3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Maybe.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
ExcellentRosy Everitt review 21 Dec 2017
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The abundance of wildlife. We saw so much; scores of elephants, hundreds of zebra, loads of giraffes and hippos everywhere not to mention the 100 or more species of birds . We say two wild cat (very rare) and the wild dogs. We enjoyed a few rarer sightings of an elephant chasing a lion, a pair of amorous leopard tortoise, a baby elephant falling over milk drunk (which was adorable) and marvelled at tree dwelling ducks. The peace and beauty of the Okavango Delta is just incredible and pretty humbling. Having stayed in lodges in the past I would say that camping in the wild is by far the best way to safari, although I was a little scared (terrified) the first night.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Take extra batteries for your camera (I learnt the hard way). Don't fret about "safari wear". You don't need walking boots, trainers are fine and you just want loose comfy clothes and protection from the sun.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Absolutely. We left no trace whatsoever - our footprint was tiny. Food is bought locally (and cooked over open fires!). Guides and polers are all local from surrounding villages. Having grown up in the bush their knowledge and understanding of the environment and animal behaviour is amazing - you are in very safe hands.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Absolutely fantastic experience. Loved every minute of it.John Watterson review 15 Aug 2017
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The highlight was probably when elephants strolled into our camp one afternoon! Camping in the wilderness and being up close to elephants, lions, rhino, giraffe, buffalo and hyena, hippos, leopards and fantastic bird life was wonderful. The expert guides kept us safe and shared their knowledge - and prepared great food every meal. The evening meals and chat round the fireside were very memorable too. Also watching a leopard eating its kill whilst hyena looked on. I could go on!!2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Do it! Be prepared to muck in with the washing up etc. Take lots of layers of clothing if going in winter - cold mornings and hot afternoons.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
We hope so. We certainly tried to do so - spending at local markts and tipping as much as we could afford. Guides made sure that sites were left in pristine condition.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
At the age of 62 we have no problem in saying that this was our best holiday ever. Like being in the middle of a travel cocumentary - up close and personal with so many beautiful animals (and lovely local people). Awewome, scary at times (how can you be 6 feet from a lion and not be scared?), exhilerating, exhausting. A unique experience we shall treasure for ever.Read the operator's response here:
Hi John,
Thank you for your stirling review of our tour. It certainly brings us joy to know that you enjoyed it so much. Hopefully we will get to welcome you back one day.
Caitlin Phillips review 17 Aug 2016
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The opportunity to sleep in the 'wild' (in parks) and to sit around an open fire at night with just the star filled skies above and noises of wildlife around, was a huge privilege. The boat ride through the delta was one of the most atmospheric and soothing journeys I have had. The night around the fire listening to the songs of the Polers in the Delta was unforgetable. Another particular thrill was a sighting of a female leopard and her cub with their recent kill - that of a baby cheetah - in the Moremi park. The boat ride on the Chobe river was stunning in terms of the number of birds that we saw, and how close we were to elephants and crocodiles. White water rafting at the Victoria falls was pretty thrilling too. There are many more memorable things I could add......2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Think through the group aspect of this holiday. This isn't the holiday to choose if you want private time as a couple/family. In order for the tour group to work well, everyone has to make an effort to interact enough to develop a good group dynamic. Thankfully our group worked well, everyone was considerate and we enjoyed getting to know new people. Also, this is an very 'outdoor' tour with bumpy drives, camping every night - and participating in communal chores. It wouldn't suit someone who needed to shower everyday, or who had physcial health issues (such as back pain or poor mobility). Do make sure that you take something windproof to wear (and tie hair back), several of the drives are in an open sided vehicle which gets very windy (and cold).3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes - by using local guides in the Delta and by ensuring that we cleaned up our camps and left nothing behind us (not even apple cores) in the parks. I think that there would be scope to extend the environmental aspects of this tour - perhaps by giving more information on local projects etc.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Wonderful from start to finish. I didn't want it to end.Pamela Young review 20 Jul 2016
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The wild camping in the bush in Botswana was just fantastic with some extremely close encounters with wildlife such as the elephants who came to hoover up the acacia pods between our tents, hornbills hopping around the camp, an eagle owl sitting on a dead tree watching the campfire and tracking on foot and in the open 4WD getting close to lions and leopards, in the mokoros close to hippos and elephants.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Our guides Kalunga, Kenny and Timon the driver/assistant were extremely knowledgeable capable, always professional and inspired confidence-thanks to their skill in tracking and good relations with other guides we had some wonderful opportunities to watch wildlife which might otherwise have remained hidden. The tents feel robust, camp cooking was great, bush shower fun and the bush toilet comfortable and hygenic (though could be a bit scary in the dark). Campfires and the stars with the noises of the African night are very special and the company/nationalities within the group will obviously make a big impact on any individual's experience - the guides are conscious of this and facilitate group dynamics.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
The team were fastidious in returning the campsites to the bush -it was extremely hard to imagine these wild sites are used as frequently as they were as they were seemingly pristine- all rubbish removed and ashes buried when we left. Local people were used for the mokoro trip into the delta (shared out on a rota)and guiding on the walking safaris and the boat guide on Chobe River. They all had immense respect for the wildlife and approached as close as possible without stressing the animals. There were opportunities for cultural interaction with the mokoro polers/guides around the camp in a relaxed atmosphere.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Awesome! I would wholeheartedly recommend the wild camping aspect of this trip as an amazing extra dimension to the experience over a lodge or fenced campsite.Stephen McNally review 23 Nov 2016
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Going to sleep in my tent, in the heart of the bush knowing that I was surrounded by all the wild life that I had come to see. You just can't get this fantastic feeling in a lodge or hotel.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
On the camping trips check the expected weather. Your are limited on what you can take so bulky warm clothes when the temperature is never going to get below 20c is a real waste of space. The camping trip is a team activity - engage with the team.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, local people were employed as guides and helpers. When we departed a campsite it was left as if we had never been there. Botswana will benefit from tourism but local inhabitants are clear that this will only continue while the flora and fauna remains as abundant and unspoiled as it is now.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
A wonderful experience. Well managed and more fun than I would ever have imagined.Liz Robertson review 22 Sep 2016
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
A lioness came into camp and stole my day bag and ate my camera, binoculars and our passports! Guides were marvellous and kept us safe from her2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Keep your packing to a minimum and separate items into bags for ease of access i.e. underwear in one bag, medicines and pills in another.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes we spent quite a bit of money and obviously people had jobs as a result of tourists. In the longer term we have been singing the praises of both Botswana and Zambia and their efforts anti poaching4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent - saw more game than we could possibly have hoped for and loved Botswana.Read the operator's response here:
Dear Liz
Thank you for your review that we have seen on Responsible Travel.
Firstly I’m glad you had a great time on our tour, and that Botswana was everything you hoped for. It’s a great trip which seems some amazing areas and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Regarding your encounter with the kleptomaniac lioness in camp at Chobe, most importantly I’m pleased to hear the guides kept you safe. Our guides are trained as professional guides, they have years of experience dealing with camping in wild areas and they know best on how to deal with the situation, and they give safety briefings to this effect.
Our guides make sure they do a perimeter check in the morning before the group gets out and about, and we ask clients to advise guides when they are leaving the confines of the camp so they are aware, this is for the safety of the group and so they keep a check on where everyone is in the group. However even if the guides had checked the perimeter of the camp that morning, this was a lioness on the move, so it would have been an unexpected situation regardless, as is the nature of wildlife.
Although I’m sorry to hear of the damage to your equipment, this should make for an interesting story in the future because having a lioness in camp does not happen often at all - most of the time the wildlife is scared of the human noises and smells and they keep away from the camp. However in this case I’m glad the situation was dealt with well, and that you were able to get home after having a damaged passport.
We do provide a suggested packing list in our tour dossier that can be used to help with final packing for the trip, as space is limited and there is a weight limit guideline. Your idea of grouping items into different bags is a great suggestion for future clients.
I would like to respond regarding your impression that your trip did not really benefit local people or conservation, please can I ask you to view our website page which will give you many different ways in which a our company supports conservation and details how your tour benefits local people and communities along the way. I hope this helps to reassure you that we have conservation at our heart and we are serious about Responsible Travel and helping our clients also have an opportunity to be part of this during their tour with us.
Once again, thank you for your feedback and hope that you will consider joining another of our tours in the future.
Thanks and regards
Tamlyn
Justin James review 2 Oct 2016
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The Okavango Delta safari and the Chobe safari2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Be prepared to get dirty when in the camps in the middle of nowhere. Bring a good light and plenty of battery power.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Not sure about this one as we did a lot of driving and camp fires4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Very good you have to be lucky who you end up and with I was lucky.Susan Davies review 17 Aug 2015
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The walking and caneo safari elements and our encouter with the animals was unbelieveable and terrifying at the sametime, but the guides were excellent and got us out safely from some very tricky situations. The actual guides make or break the holiday as much as the animals, we were so lucky they were all brilliant and made the holiday.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Just a couple for people who haven't done this before, there are two airports at Vic falls, I think it was just luck that I booked the right one. Secondly the $300 paid to guides at the beginning is fine, but just need to explain a bit more in the info what it is for, finally again for new people currency requirement/guide would be helpful and at what stops money can be changed.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, we tipped heavily locally to push the money around and buying local helps, plus having local guides means alot, it's their home and they explain about their country.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
I think the holiday was brilliant. I am a 50 year old women and biologically we constantly assess risk and feel fear, where as my 16 year old daughter felt absolotely no fear at all. This was the same observation throughout the entire group between the age groups. Being in the real wild comes with unavoidable risks, like skiing in a way and I didn't really understand this until I was there. Whilst I am really happy we did it and I will never do a holiday as memorable and extraordinary again, I can't envisage me doing it again because of the 'fear factor' I personally felt, which will not be the same for everybody. Thank you for the experience, the setup was perfect and the organisation excellent and at a price that is doable.Read the operator's response here:
Dear Susan
Thank you so much for taking the time to write a review and let other travellers know about your experience. Thank you for the wonderful feedback and comments and we are so happy that you and your daughter had such a fantastic holiday, even though there were times when you were nervous.
I will be passing your comments onto the rest of the team and the guides.
There is something so magical about seeing wildlife in its natural environment and certainly gives you a new respect for wildlife. This is why we insist on the highest quality guides to take you through this incredible journey.
With regards to the airports, you are correct, there are two airports which give you access to the Victoria Falls and it is wise to check your itinerary carefully when starting or ending a tour to make sure which town your tour starts/ends in to make sure you have the correct airport.
Airport in Victoria Falls Zimbabwe: Victoria Falls International Airport
Airport in Livingstone Zambia: Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport.
Also, thank you for the feedback on the Local Payment element of the tour. When you booked the tour you should have received a detailed itinerary and in that information are details about the local payment. You should also have received the tour dossier which has the same information. If you did not, my sincerest apologies and we will ensure future clients get all of the correct information ahead of travelling. I have included the details of the local payment portion of the this tour that can be found in our documentation.
I will also be looking into the currency section of our dossier to see where we can improve the information.
Once again thank you for your feedback.
Kind regards
Jayne Harley
Marketing Manager
Sunway SafarIs
(This is what is included in the detailed itinerary and Sunway Safaris tour dossier: Local Payment
A local payment is required on this safari and this will be collected by your tour leader on departure. The local payment forms part of your overall tour cost, and must be taken into consideration when booking your safari. It will be used by your tour leaders to pay for some of the operational costs incurred on safari.
Sunway prepays by bank transfer, as many of the tour costs as possible. However, in many cases, a cash payment is the only option: certain of the destinations that we visit, only accept cash. For example entry fees to most national parks, some of the campsites and also local food markets (and even some shops) are only payable in cash. In addition, each Sunway vehicle has a garage card but these are only accepted in South Africa and parts of Namibia, therefore in all other countries, fuel must be paid for in cash. Due to the remoteness of some departure points, having a local payment system enables us to manage tour funds effectively. The efficiency of this system helps keep the overall tour prices down.
For these reasons, it is necessary for Sunway to charge a local payment. It also ensures that a portion of the tour costs goes directly into the country you are visiting, thereby benefiting local communities and contributing to the conservation of the areas we visit. This is all part of Sunway Safaris’ ongoing effort to operate sustainable safaris that make a real difference.)
Holiday Reviews
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