South Africa, Victoria Falls & Botswana Tailor Made - Africa Your Way !

You could encounter the “Big Five” and an abundance of wildlife and birdlife on your game drive. Game drives are in open landrover’s and are conducted twice daily. An experienced tracker will impart his knowledge of the bush, game and birdlife to enhance your game drive. Coffee and rusks are provided on the morning game drives and guest can enjoy sundowners on the evening game drives. Game Drive times fluctuate through the year depending on the temperatures, but are generally as follows:

Experience gourmet dining in Victoria Falls at the top-rated Cassia Restaurant. Centrally located only minutes from the Victoria Falls at Ilala Lodge Hotel, the newly-renamed restaurant offers a delicious breakfast buffet, lunch and al fresco evening dining under the starry African sky.

The Cassia Restaurant delivers an unmatched menu, paired with an extensive wine list comprised of carefully selected wines from South Africa’s top vineyards. The calming and tranquil ambience is further complemented by the gentle rumble of Victoria Falls in the background. A truly unforgettable dining experience not to be missed.

You know what they say about the early bird? If you are a passionate birdwatcher, don’t miss out on this river cruise! Keen bird lovers will delight in marking off their sightings in the birding booklet provided on board while enjoying a delicious continental breakfast including fruit platters, fresh pastries and a variety of cheeses and biscuits. Rare birds such as the African Pitta and the Narina Trogon have been sighted here, as well as hundreds of other bird species. The knowledgeable and experienced guides conduct these early morning river cruises.

Enjoy freshly brewed coffee and a continental breakfast as you cruise up the Zambezi River towards Kandahar Island while enjoying the sounds of the diverse birdlife and the African bush come to life in the early morning. Breakfast includes freshly baked pieces of bread and pastries, fresh fruit platters, jams, yoghurts and cheeses as well as an assortment of teas and coffee.

Sit back and relax while sipping a cold drink and enjoying a few quiet hours along the banks of the Zambezi River. Our lunch buffet includes cold meats, fresh salads and a wide selection of biscuits and cheeses, all catered by the award-winning Palm Restaurant at Ilala Lodge Hotel. The fully stocked bar is available throughout the cruise and the attentive crew is at your service.

There simply is not a better way to enjoy the dazzling African sunset than from the comfort of a Ra-Ikane boat on a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. Our ever-popular sunset cruise offers a unique way to explore the channels of the river and to get an up-close view of the pristine wilderness and African game along its banks. Enjoy an array of canapés, a full bar and a charming crew who can impart a bit of interesting Victoria Falls history with you on board the Ra-Ikane.

Situated in the heart of the Chobe region with access to river frontage of the Chobe National Park, we also offer water-based game drives by tender boat, allowing you to experience the enormous diversity and concentration of wildlife up even closer.

Game viewing on the Chobe River is at its most exceptional from March to November when the weather is drier and the animals are more mobile as they search for food and water. Summer and spring also offer unique opportunities though, as you watch the landscape burst into life after the first rains of the season. Catch sight of huge herds of elephant as they swim across the water, as well as buffalo, lion, crocodile, lechwe, puku, giraffe, zebra, sable, kudu and the occasional leopard as they gather to quench their thirst at watering holes. Besides animal life, you’ll also see a huge variety of birdlife and plant life as you listen to the sounds of a hippo grunting and breathe in the sweet smell of African grass.

The Chobe is known as a photographer's paradise and for good reason. The soft early morning light and the sunsets at dusk, combined with striking animal behaviour, make for dramatic and unusual photo opportunities. Before your game viewing excursion, remember to apply sunscreen and wear a hat, as temperatures can reach over 40 degrees centigrade. You should also bring along a jacket for the chillier temperatures in the early mornings and evenings.

Enjoy the ultimate in game viewing safari decadence as you sip on a drink and cruise along the river in one of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet.

No trip to the Chobe is complete without trying your hand at a fishing safari where if you’re lucky, you may even catch a tiger fish. One of the greatest fighting fish in the world, the tiger fish is the most sought after prize of these waters and is known for its ferocious spirit. It's not all about tiger fish though. You may also hook one of the many bream species, African pike, tilapia, catfish or upper Zambezi yellowfish as you explore over 100 kms of the Chobe and Zambezi rivers, as well as the winding Kasai Channel and thrilling Chobe and Mambova rapids.

We offer both conventional equipment as well as flyfishing equipment for our fishing safaris, because we know that the area is renowned worldwide for its flyfishing. We supply rods, flies, lures, lines, leaders and reels and all equipment is included in our rate.

Because of our unique location, we offer excellent fishing safaris all year round – from the annual floods starting in March to the feeding frenzies in the winter months. Our highly knowledgeable guides, the tackle and bait we supply as well as well stocked cooler boxes make fishing in Africa an experience to remember. Land an eight pounder or more and earn bragging rights for years to come, as you enjoy a fishing trip that's second to none.

With over 450 species, a mix of terrains and a dramatic African backdrop, the Chobe River is the perfect setting for a highly rewarding birdwatching safari. Birding season starts in September, when the first migrants arrive, boosting the bird population sometimes by 20% compared to the winter months. From December through to March birdlife on the Chobe is extremely busy and the colourful breeding plumage on display is an extraordinary sight.

Experienced birders and even eager amateurs will delight in spotting distinct birds such as African skimmers, rock pratincoles and the African finfoot, either through their binoculars or with the naked eye. Having access to your own knowledgeable guide and tender boat lets you spend many hours on your birding safari also viewing cattle egrets, fish eagles, open-billed storks, lesser-striped swallows, pied kingfishers and the striking carmine bee-eater. The slow drift of the tender boat means that you won’t disturb the peaceful silence and can also get up close to the birds and observe their fascinating behaviour.

Sit patiently and absorb the beauty around you and soon you’ll be rewarded with a unique sighting that you’ll want to photograph. Because you’ll have access to the Chobe National Park and the Caprivi wetlands, you’ll get exposure to a wide variety of species you may have never seen before. The distinct sounds of the call of an African fish eagle mingling with the grunt of hippos will stay with you long after your Chobe River birdwatching safari is over.

Uninterrupted access to wild animals. Absolute silence. Golden light. The Chobe River is an unforgettable photographic safari destination, and one of the wildlife photographers’ hotspots in Africa. To help you capture that perfect moment, our custom-designed photographic safari boats are available on request and cater for 6 clients in individual photographic seats. The boat contains custom-designed swivel chairs that give you greater stability and 360-degree views for a wider range of subject matter. Every seat is equipped with a mounting for resting SLR cameras of all types and you’ll get your own experienced safari guide who’ll help you find that perfect shot.

Bring your own photographic equipment as we don’t supply this - the optimal lens to bring is an 80 - 400mm zoom. Because this is a water-based safari, you'll be able to take unique shots in a safe environment, being able to view the animals in the Chobe National Park surrounded by that magical golden light Africa is renowned for. Tea and coffee will be offered in the morning during the winter months and soft drinks, local beers and wines will be served in the afternoon. Light snacks are also served during your excursion, providing you with a photographic experience that's also about pure comfort.

Departure times are early morning and late afternoon and the safari takes three hours. Please let us know at the time of booking your holiday if you’d like to use our customised photographic safari boat. Capture your stay with breathtaking photos of the unique African landscape and the wild animals that surround you.

One of the best ways to learn more about a country is to experience its culture. A village tour will take you by tender boat to a local Namibian village called Ijambwe, situated on the floodplains of the East Caprivi. Meet village elders and locals and gain a greater understanding of how the inhabitants of this 100-year old village live, including their daily challenges and traditions.

Wear a large sun hat and apply sun lotion, bring a bottle of water with you and wear comfortable shoes. You’ll start by taking a slow, non-strenuous but sandy stroll through the village as you snap a few photographs and meet the Headman of the village as well as his children. The men of the village either fish to provide meals for their families, while the women and younger children perform the chores and produce handmade crafts. Pick up a woven basket, beaded jewellery or a carved wooden animal as a memento from your trip – sales of these crafts empower village inhabitants by helping them earn a living. If you want to give the children of the village gifts, bring along school stationery, books or clothing – all will be highly appreciated. Finally, enjoy a display of traditional dancing and singing at the end and join in the fun!

Guests can also go on a walking tour to a 2000-year-old baobab tree where you'll learn more about the medicinal and spiritual value of Impalila Island’s flora. For our more adventurous guests, if you have the inclination to climb the tree, you’ll be rewarded with a bird’s-eye view of the meeting place of two rivers and four countries.

Discover one of Africa’s most ancient Baobab trees, otherwise known as the “Tree of Life”. Take a 6km walk through the scenic Impalila Island trails or by vehicle upon request. This remarkable Baobab dates 2000 years old, and if you dare, you can climb to the top where you are able to see the junction of four countries – Namibia, Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Nogatsaa Pans Lodge is built with sweeping views of the Kwikamba Pans. Careful thought has been given to the layout and design of this Lodge to promote Safari experience of yester year. Enjoy unsurpassed experience of sitting quietly watching as the animals of Africa come down to a waterhole to drink, so no better place to be to enjoy the proverbial safari straight from your armchair.

Kwikamba Pans is one of the few reliable water sources in this harsh area, making it a hot-spot for large herds of elephants. It is the perfect spot for a relaxed armchair safari: you don’t need to leave camp, with all animals making their way to Kwikamba Pan in front of the Lodge.

With this in mind our Game Activity is flexible to give you the best experience.

Guests normally arrive at Nogatsaa Pans around midday or during the afternoon.

Upon arrival a warm welcome awaits you from the awesome Nogatsaa Team. You will be given a short welcome briefing in the main lounge while enjoying the sweeping views of the Kwikamba Pans, after which you will be shown to your room for relaxation and freshening up.

High Tea is served at 16h00 in the open-plan dining area, where you can enjoy spotting all the game coming down to drink at the Pan. Various delicious cakes and savouries will be available for your enjoyment with cold or hot beverages. Your guide will come to meet you during High Tea to get your orders for refreshments during your afternoon Sundowner drive or you can choose to enjoy your sundowner right there on the deck. The afternoon sunset game drive departs around 16h30 utilising our private network of roads, sundowner drinks to be enjoyed either at the Kabungwa or Nogatsaa Hides.

Depending on the season our resident pride of lion, Herds of elephants, buffalo, impala, kudu, giraffe, zebra and roan antelope are some of the possible sightings around camp. Not to mention the numerous different bird species, including the Ground Hornbill which is on the vulnerable list. Enjoying the quiet of the bush and the surrounding environment while out on a drive is an absolute bonus.

You will return to camp around 18h30 giving you time to freshen up before dinner. Your guide will meet you at a pre-arranged time at your room to accompany you the Main area for a pre-dinner drink around the bonfire in the Boma and catch up with the other guests and their stories. Dinner is in the Dining Area anytime from 19h30 onwards

You can choose to get up early or sleep a little later – enjoy the activity around the Pan while having your breakfast on the outside deck of the restaurant. You have a choice of continental buffet or ordering hot breakfast. A mid-morning departure to visit the Poha Hide overlooking a waterhole where you will enjoy a midmorning break and some outstanding photographic opportunities.

An alternative route would be to Mapororo Hide which showcases endless views over the marsh.

You will return to Nogatsaa Pans for lunch which is served between 13h00 – 14h00.

OR

You can spend the day in camp enjoying the relaxed “Armchair” Safari

After lunch you can relax in the lodge area, have a swim or book a spa treatment to be had in the privacy of your room. Use our complimentary Wi-Fi to you connect to loved ones or just catch up on the news or just enjoy your armchair safari on the deck in front of your room or in the main area.

High Tea and Sundowners starts again at 16h00 that afternoon.

High Tea is served at 16h00 in the open-plan dining area, where you can continue to enjoy unparalleled views of the Savuti and activity around the waterhole below. You will meet your personal guide and fellow travellers while enjoying the decadent splendour of our home baked cakes and treats. Your guide will prepare your orders for refreshments during your afternoon Sundowner drive which departs around 16h30 traversing our private network of roads. We have a maximum of 6 guests per vehicle for your viewing comfort. Drinks of choice will be enjoyed either at our private hide overlooking our waterhole or at our special Baobab site with magnificent sunset views where photographers as well as nature lovers will experience an incredibly unique landscape.

Herds of elephants, buffalo, impala, kudu, giraffe, zebra, roan antelope, spotted & brown hyena, Ghoha pride of lions and leopard are some of the possible sightings around in the area. Not to mention the numerous different bird species and the spectacular Baobab trees that dot the landscape.

You will return to camp around 18h30 to freshen up before dinner. Your guide will meet you at a pre-arranged time at your room to accompany you the Main area for a pre-dinner drink around the bonfire in the Boma and catch up with the other guests and their stories. Dinner is served in the dining area from 19h30 onwards.

The Savuti Marsh Excursion (Minimum 2-night stay). This is a highlight game experience with seasonal activity taken into account on the exact sequence of the day with guest requirements and preferences.

Your day starts early morning, with wake-up at 5am. Your guide will collect you from your room at 5h30 for a superb continental breakfast and coffee and then departing around 6h00 on you day excursion. With various stretching points en-route to the Savuti Marsh, you will stop again for some Tea/Coffee and rusks.

Your professional guide will take you through magnificent ancient landscapes and wildlife areas - to name a few: Harvey’s Pan, where so many animals roam daily, Kudu Hills, Quarry hill and rock climbing to get a close view of the Bushmen Rock Paintings, the magnificent Theatre of Twelve Baobab’s seeing the Pimple Hills as well as Twin Hills.

The drive will then continue further showcasing the wonders of the Savuti Marsh with its magnificent herds of Buffalo and Elephant and the Savuti Pride of Lions, in addition to many other species of game and birdlife will be found.

You will return to Ghoha Hills for lunch which is served between 13h00 – 14h00.

After lunch you can relax in the lodge area, have a swim, or enjoy a workout in the gym or have a spa treatment. We also have Wi-Fi available, letting you connect to loved ones or just catch up on the news

High Tea and Sundowner Game drive will start again at 16h00 that afternoon between 13h00 – 14h00. After lunch you can relax in the lodge area, have a swim or enjoy a workout in the gym or have a spa treatment. We also have Wi-Fi available, letting you connect to loved ones or just catch up on the news High Tea and Sundowner Game drive will start again at 16h00 that afternoon.

You have a choice of sleeping late, having a hot breakfast and then departing to the airstrip depending on time of flight, a short game circuit en-route can be done to revisit sights and pans closer to the airstrip.

OR

Getting up early for a drive to the hide for Coffee & rusks and then returning for a hot breakfast and then departing to the airstrip – depending on flight time

You can pre-book a scenic helicopter flight (quote available on request).

Early morning/ or afternoon departure from Ghoha Hills to just outside the Ghoha gate where your helicopter adventure awaits you.

Our scenic/ photography flights are a not to miss opportunity. We take the doors off for an even better photographic experience while flying.

Moments after departing you will enjoy the breath-taking views seen only from a helicopter - flying in the direction of the Linyanti Swamps.

This is a 30 minute flight where you will then land and enjoy delights from a special picnic basket packed for you – 30 minutes later you will then return back to the Ghoha gate – total excursion time 90 minutes.

Our professionally trained therapists will ensure you walk away from your soothing spa
treatments feeling pampered and relaxed. Our therapists understand that this is YOUR
experience and will do their utmost to ensure a sense of comfort and relaxation.
Our treatments are done in a room with sweeping views of the wilderness below. While our therapists use their natural rhythm and specific techniques to ensure a calm mind and de-stressed body, the wilderness beyond will take care of the harmony between you and nature.

Feeling a bit stiif after spending a lot of time travelling and on safari - spend some time in the gym with a view.