17 Day Botswana Fly Safari.

Come and have high-tea with our herd of 20 resident giraffe! A real highlight when staying at Thamo Telele. Take a afternoon drive (or walk) to the local waterhole, perch yourself peacefully under the trees enjoying a sundowner and snacks, and wait for our unique ungulates to come and say hello. This is an ideal opportunity to closely observe giraffe displaying their natural behaviours. And whilst the giraffe are feeding, a whole host of other plains game and birdlife will join in on the action too. This unique experience, led by our naturalists on hand, is one not to be missed. You’ll learn all about giraffe conservation throughout Africa and the education programmes at Thamo Telele, as well as how to identify each giraffe by their unique patterning. Each of them has a Setswana name, and if in doubt there is an identification book for referencing to get it right.

Grab your comfiest walking shoes, your bino’s and ask at reception about the various self-guided nature walks you can do around the 250-hectare reserve. The well-marked trails are an ideal way to safely explore this private reserve while stretching your legs after or before a long flight while taking in the wonder of our wooded forest and diverse grasslands. The reserve is free of predators but abundant

in bird life and plains game. You’ll come across so many magical sightings, from the smallest critters, to beautiful big trees. And if you happen to stumble upon our resident giraffe, enjoy quietly observing them on foot.

Saddle up to explore this exquisite private reserve on horseback! You’ll embark on a professionally guided outride (forall level riders). This is an exhilarating way to get up close and personal with our resident giraffe, zebra and all the plains game that reside on the reserve.

Calling all bird lovers! Grab your binos, your bird book and your Natural Selection birding checklist to enjoy your very own birding safari at Thamo Telele. Being on this private reserve with over 300 species of birds, this is a hot-spot for bird lovers and a peaceful way to spend your time bird watching along the banks of the Thamalakane river.

Choose an early morning or afternoon bike ride on our nature trails. We offer off-road safari bikes and biking helmets for individuals, couples, or families with children. Choose guided or self-guided rides. You can also book a day’s biking safari where a professional guide will take you from camp, along the

Thamalakane river and off towards the buffalo fence looking for animals. But please note that bike excursions must be booked in advance.

Heli from camp to enjoy a scenic helicopter flight over the Okavango Delta. This is an incredible opportunity to appreciate the vastness of the Delta when seeing it from above. From your seat, door off (or on) you’ll be able to spot game, take exceptional photos and follow the waterways and animal

pathways that shape this ancient wilderness.

Experience Botswana beyond wildlife and go on a cultural tour of the safari town of Maun. Learn about local customs and traditions from your host, intermingled with their own personal experiences. Feast your senses on the sights, smells and sounds when walking through the vibrant market place. Taste some traditional dishes at a local Café. Meet some of our resident talents and admire their crafts. Look

out for the BaHerero women dressed in their big, elaborate and colourful dresses. Try your hand at the ancient practice of basket weaving and hear the stories behind the beautiful patterns. This is an authentic glimpse of life in Botswana and an experience not to be missed.

Leroo La Tau, meaning "Lion's Paw," offers expertly guided game drives twice daily through Makgadikgadi Pans National Park. This extraordinary region is home to an array of predators, including lions, jackals, cheetahs, leopards, both brown and spotted hyenas, caracals, and more. Antelope, from elegant kudus to towering giraffes, also call this park home. The Boteti River, in particular, is renowned for hosting Botswana’s spectacular zebra migration, a breathtaking display of stripes and hooves that is typically in full swing between May and October.

*Please note: Due to the remote location of Leroo La Tau within the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, the pans themselves are not included in the daily scheduled activities from the lodge.

Leroo La Tau Game Drives Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Leroo La Tau Game Drives Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Leroo La Tau Game Drives Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Leroo La Tau Game Drives Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Leroo La Tau Game Drives Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Leroo La Tau Game Drives Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Picture an endless stretch of flat salt, all the way to the horizon—a surreal, lunar-like environment that captivates the senses. As the sun sets, the sky transforms into a vibrant canvas of burnt orange, periwinkle, and pink—the kind of African sunset that dreams are made of.

The Makgadikgadi Salt Pans are so remote that both sound and light pollution are non-existent, an experience described by many as life-changing. This is where Desert & Delta Safaris bring guests for their iconic Makgadikgadi Salt Pans Sleep-Out Experience.

Guests are transported from Leroo La Tau to sleep under the stars, dine around a campfire, and revel in the profound solitude of nature. All logistics, including bedrolls, meals, and transport, are handled by the lodge team. The sleep-out is guided expertly, with safety a top priority for all guests.

Available between mid-June and October, the experience is inclusive for guests staying three nights or more, subject to weather and availability. To enhance this adventure, guests can opt for one-way or return helicopter transfers (surcharges apply). For a fully exclusive, bespoke journey, inquire about Desert & Delta’s newly launched Epic Experience itinerary.

Leroo La Tau Salt Pans Sleep-Out Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Leroo La Tau Salt Pans Sleep-Out Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Leroo La Tau Salt Pans Sleep-Out Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Leroo La Tau Salt Pans Sleep-Out Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Leroo La Tau Salt Pans Sleep-Out Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Leroo La Tau Salt Pans Sleep-Out Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

A helicopter scenic flight offers an unparalleled opportunity to truly grasp the vastness of the Makgadikgadi Pans wilderness.

Every month unveils a unique spectacle: from the dusty trails of thousands of zebras migrating along the Boteti River to the dramatic transformation of the pans. Soaring above, guests can witness the lush green islands scattered across vast water basins, ancient baobab trees standing sentinel, and Kubu Island’s migratory flamingos that gather in their thousands to breed and nest. The landscape is further enriched by the ancient rocks of Gondwanaland and its fascinating archaeological sites.

Helicopter scenic flights such as these, along with optional transfers to and from the Salt Pans Sleep-Out Experience, are a truly special addition to any Leroo La Tau adventure—offering the chance to see some of Africa’s most striking settings from the skies.

*Please note: Scenery and wildlife vary with the seasons, weather patterns and Mother Nature’s unpredictable will. Please enquire about flights and seasonal events before booking.

Leroo La Tau Scenic Heli Flights Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Leroo La Tau Scenic Heli Flights Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Leroo La Tau Scenic Heli Flights Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Leroo La Tau Scenic Heli Flights Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Leroo La Tau Scenic Heli Flights Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Leroo La Tau Scenic Heli Flights Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Desert & Delta Safaris is renowned for crafting immersive adventures that go beyond the ordinary. Culture and community play a central role, offering guests an authentic, enriching, and educational itinerary that leaves a lasting impact.

Guests are invited to Khumaga Village, located near Leroo La Tau, for a guided day trip to explore this vibrant community and gain insights into local life.

During the visit, visitors can engage with local farmers, try their hand at milking cows, and perhaps bottle-feed baby goats (kids). They'll meet local families, who often invite guests into their homes for a tour, and can visit the community school.

Additionally, guests can support the community by purchasing beautifully woven homeware, including baskets, trays, and vessels crafted by local women.

Leroo La Tau Village Tour Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Leroo La Tau Village Tour Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Leroo La Tau Village Tour Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Leroo La Tau Village Tour Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Leroo La Tau Village Tour Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Leroo La Tau Village Tour Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Guests staying three nights or more at Leroo La Tau can enjoy a day trip to Nxai Pan National Park. The excursion starts in the early morning and includes a visit to Nxai Pan as well as Baines Baobabs for a chance to see the expansive salt pans. Lunch will be enjoyed while out exploring Nxai Pan.

Leroo La Tau Nxai Pans Day Trip Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Leroo La Tau Nxai Pans Day Trip Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Leroo La Tau Nxai Pans Day Trip Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Leroo La Tau Nxai Pans Day Trip Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Leroo La Tau Nxai Pans Day Trip Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Leroo La Tau Nxai Pans Day Trip Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Guided walking safaris, led by qualified experts on the surrounding islands, provide an opportunity to track the region's larger wildlife while also immersing in the smaller marvels that make up its intricate ecosystems. These excursions are conducted in small groups, each accompanied by two knowledgeable guides.

Xugana Island Lodge Walking Safari Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Xugana Island Lodge Walking Safari Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Walking Safaris | Xugana Island Lodge Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Walking Safaris | Xugana Island Lodge Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Hop aboard a hard-bottom aluminum motorboat to explore the deeper channels of the iconic Okavango Delta. Cruise through this pristine landscape and be treated to a stunning array of birdlife, plant species, and larger game such as elephants, with expert guides to uncover Delta gems along the way. The boats are equipped with comfortable seating, a foldaway canvas roof for shade, and life jackets for safety and comfort.

Motorboat Safaris | Xugana Island Lodge Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Motorboat Safaris | Xugana Island Lodge Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Motorboat Safaris | Xugana Island Lodge Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Motorboat Safaris | Xugana Island Lodge Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Seeing the Okavango Delta from a helicopter is a truly magnificent experience. Desert & Delta’s partners at Helicopter Horizons will remove the doors providing uninterrupted views and close up angles of the majestic Delta and its wildlife. A scenic flight is not just a must for keen photographers but an exciting opportunity to witness this remarkable network of land and water from above.

The flights are operated with the utmost respect and caution for the natural environment, the wildlife and travellers. Routes have been carefully marked out ensuring guests on other activities and in camp are not disturbed. The flight routes and take off areas are designed specifically to make use of pristine areas within the concession.

Scenic Heli Flights | Xugana Island Lodge Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Scenic Heli Flights | Xugana Island Lodge Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Scenic Heli Flights | Xugana Island Lodge Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Scenic Heli Flights | Xugana Island Lodge Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Brimming with tiger fish and home to the iconic annual (seasonal) Barbel Run, the Okavango Delta delivers the thrill of the chase, where anglers engage in an exhilarating dance of patience and skill. Seasoned and novice fishers are invited to cast their lines on a guided adventure. All fishing equipment is available at the lodge.

Fishing | Xugana Island Lodge Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Fishing | Xugana Island Lodge Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Fishing | Xugana Island Lodge Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Fishing | Xugana Island Lodge Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

The Okavango Delta provides one of the most diverse and rewarding birdwatching experiences, offering the chance to observe both resident and migratory species in one of the planet’s most pristine and ecologically vital landscapes. Enquire about Desert & Delta’s Epic Experience: Best of Botswana’s Birding: A Tailor-made Safari Experience (Hosted by a Specialist Bird Guide).

Birdwatching | Xugana Island Lodge Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Birdwatching | Xugana Island Lodge Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Birdwatching | Xugana Island Lodge Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Birdwatching | Xugana Island Lodge Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Drift through the Okavango Delta's serene, wildlife-rich channels in a mokoro (traditional dugout canoe), expertly navigated by seasoned guides. Immerse yourself in the vibrant diversity of birds, plants, and reptiles that thrive here, and savour the leisurely pace which enhances detail-orientated viewing.

Mokoro Activity | Xugana Island Lodge Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Xugana Island Lodge Mokoro Activity Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Mokoro Activity Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Xugana Island Lodge Mokoro Activity Credit: Desert & Delta Safaris

Drives take place just after dawn and at sunset. Open Land Rovers with a seating capacity for 10 passengers are used for the drives. Only 6 to 8 guests are accommodated in each vehicle at any time, allowing plenty of space and excellent viewing.

Additional boating safaris across the Xakanaxa Lagoon and into the Okavango Delta are also offered from Camp Xakanaxa in search of the Okavango Delta's diverse wildlife and abundant birdlife.

Come and have high-tea with our herd of 20 resident giraffe! A real highlight when staying at Thamo Telele. Take a afternoon drive (or walk) to the local waterhole, perch yourself peacefully under the trees enjoying a sundowner and snacks, and wait for our unique ungulates to come and say hello. This is an ideal opportunity to closely observe giraffe displaying their natural behaviours. And whilst the giraffe are feeding, a whole host of other plains game and birdlife will join in on the action too. This unique experience, led by our naturalists on hand, is one not to be missed. You’ll learn all about giraffe conservation throughout Africa and the education programmes at Thamo Telele, as well as how to identify each giraffe by their unique patterning. Each of them has a Setswana name, and if in doubt there is an identification book for referencing to get it right.

Grab your comfiest walking shoes, your bino’s and ask at reception about the various self-guided nature walks you can do around the 250-hectare reserve. The well-marked trails are an ideal way to safely explore this private reserve while stretching your legs after or before a long flight while taking in the wonder of our wooded forest and diverse grasslands. The reserve is free of predators but abundant

in bird life and plains game. You’ll come across so many magical sightings, from the smallest critters, to beautiful big trees. And if you happen to stumble upon our resident giraffe, enjoy quietly observing them on foot.

Saddle up to explore this exquisite private reserve on horseback! You’ll embark on a professionally guided outride (forall level riders). This is an exhilarating way to get up close and personal with our resident giraffe, zebra and all the plains game that reside on the reserve.

Calling all bird lovers! Grab your binos, your bird book and your Natural Selection birding checklist to enjoy your very own birding safari at Thamo Telele. Being on this private reserve with over 300 species of birds, this is a hot-spot for bird lovers and a peaceful way to spend your time bird watching along the banks of the Thamalakane river.

Choose an early morning or afternoon bike ride on our nature trails. We offer off-road safari bikes and biking helmets for individuals, couples, or families with children. Choose guided or self-guided rides. You can also book a day’s biking safari where a professional guide will take you from camp, along the

Thamalakane river and off towards the buffalo fence looking for animals. But please note that bike excursions must be booked in advance.

Heli from camp to enjoy a scenic helicopter flight over the Okavango Delta. This is an incredible opportunity to appreciate the vastness of the Delta when seeing it from above. From your seat, door off (or on) you’ll be able to spot game, take exceptional photos and follow the waterways and animal

pathways that shape this ancient wilderness.

Experience Botswana beyond wildlife and go on a cultural tour of the safari town of Maun. Learn about local customs and traditions from your host, intermingled with their own personal experiences. Feast your senses on the sights, smells and sounds when walking through the vibrant market place. Taste some traditional dishes at a local Café. Meet some of our resident talents and admire their crafts. Look

out for the BaHerero women dressed in their big, elaborate and colourful dresses. Try your hand at the ancient practice of basket weaving and hear the stories behind the beautiful patterns. This is an authentic glimpse of life in Botswana and an experience not to be missed.