Traditional Exploration : Botswana

Game drives are designed to take you close to the wildlife-rich spots in the Moremi Game Reserve. This gives you an opportunity to view wild animals in their natural habitat as they go about their daily activities. Game drives are done during the day or night time. Night game drives are however not allowed in the reserve.

Highly trained professional guides with extensive knowledge in various fields are there to enhance your wildlife knowledge and give you insight of your game drive experience.

Game drives are without doubt the highlight of any safari. They can last anywhere from a couple of hours to a full day's excursion with a picnic lunch in the bush.

The lion and hyena and zebra migrations are synonymous with Savute but the area also hosts an excellent diversity of other predators and plains game species. Its pans and waterholes in the dry season sustain a large population of bull elephants. Many animals pass through here on their annual migrations – attracted by the marsh's particularly nutritious grasses. Zebra visit in large herds, accompanied by impala, wildebeest, giraffe, tsessebe, buffalo and elephant.

Game viewing on the Chobe River is most exceptional from March to November, when the weather is drier and the animals are more mobile in search of food and water. Winter offers particularly dramatic sightings, while the spring and autumn shoulder seasons provide excellent opportunities for viewing wildlife. During the summer rains, the landscape transforms into a vibrant tapestry of life, creating unique wildlife and birdwatching experiences.

Each day, guests venture out by tender boat to observe large herds of elephants, buffalo, lions, crocodiles, zebras, and more, all drawn to the river. The guides maintain a respectful distance, monitoring animal behaviour and adjusting the boat as needed to ensure minimal disruption. Guests will also encounter an impressive array of birdlife and plant species along the way.

No trip to the Chobe is complete without experiencing the thrill of fishing. On the Chobe River, it's not just about the catch – it’s about the adventure. Hooking a Tiger fish, one of Africa’s most sought-after species, is an experience anglers dream of. Known for their strength and speed, Tiger fish offer an exciting challenge that leaves guests with unforgettable memories.

Fishing safaris are conducted on a catch-and-release basis, ensuring the sustainability of the fish populations. The knowledgeable guides are dedicated to safely returning the fish to the water, allowing them to thrive for years to come.

Rates include all conventional fishing gear, such as rods, lures, lines, and reels. For those interested in fly fishing, it’s recommended to bring personal gear, as preferences can vary. This ensures each guest enjoys a fishing experience tailored to their needs.

With over 450 species, diverse terrains, and a stunning African backdrop, the Chobe River provides the ideal setting for a highly rewarding bird-watching safari. Birding season begins in September, with the arrival of migratory birds boosting the population by up to 20% compared to the winter months.

The prime time for birdwatching is early morning before breakfast, as various species leave their roosts and venture into the National Park. Guests aboard any of the three Chobe Princesses enjoy access to knowledgeable guides and tender boats, ensuring a truly rewarding birding experience.

Uninterrupted access to wild animals, absolute silence, and golden light make the Chobe River an unforgettable photographic safari destination, and one of Africa's top spots for wildlife photographers. To help capture that perfect moment, a custom-designed photographic safari boat is available on request, accommodating up to four clients in individual photographic seats.

The boat features custom-designed swivel chairs, offering greater stability and 360-degree views for a wider range of subject matter. Each seat is equipped with a mount for resting SLR cameras, and an experienced safari guide will assist in finding the perfect shot.

Guests are encouraged to bring their own photographic equipment, as it is not provided onboard. The recommended lens is an 80-400mm zoom for optimal results.

Travel by tender boat to a local Namibian village on the floodplains of the East Caprivi and meet the elders and locals of the Subiya tribe. Gain a deeper understanding of life in this 100-year-old village as you learn about their daily challenges, farming practices, and traditions.

The tour concludes with a vibrant display of traditional dancing and singing, where guests are welcome to join in the fun.

As a memento of your visit, consider purchasing a woven basket, beaded jewellery, or a carved wooden animal. The sale of these crafts helps empower the village by providing a valuable source of income. If you wish to bring gifts for the village children, items such as school stationery, books, or clothing are always highly appreciated.