Sample Itinerary Botswana

Prepare yourself for some significant predator-prey, or predator-predator, action – a wildlife photographer’s dream. Lions, leopards, African wild dogs, spotted hyaenas, and cheetahs provide almost constant unfolding drama on the floodplains, at the expense of herbivores such as buffalos, giraffes; and a host of antelope, such as tsessebe, impala, and red lechwe.

On top of the excitement of a safari experience, the advantage of evening drives is that you have a unique chance to see nocturnal wildlife at their most active. Instead of watching a big cat snooze in the sun, for example, you may be able to glimpse a pride preparing for their evening hunt and setting off into the bush for a kill. Scan the bushveld for creatures that rarely appear during the day, from aardvark, to civets, genets, bushbabies, and owls.

A walking safari is a wonderful way to explore Africa's wildlife, and these may vary from a gentle morning ramble to a longer "hike" for the more intrepid. Escorted by our enthusiastic guides, explore areas with no roads, whilst listening to bird calls, and learning about animal track identification.

The birdlife is excellent and varies throughout the year, depending on water levels and season. Sightings may include African hawk-eagle, ground hornbill, scarlet-chested sunbird, red-billed hornbill, gabar goshawk and red-billed francolin.

A dinner in the bush is the ultimate safari experience – join us as we toast to the day under a magical star-studded sky while listening to the evocative sounds of an African night …

Wilderness Little Vumbura is situated in the Vumbura Private Wilderness Area, known for its scenic beauty and diverse wildlife, and a concession which is leased from nearby rural communities. Ecotourism activities here thus help communities benefit from conservation. Morning and afternoon game drives allow you to take in the plains game and predators that inhabit the area in good numbers. Key mammal species may include seasonal herds of elephant and buffalo, sable antelope, zebra, wildebeest, tsessebe, lechwe, giraffe, lion, leopard, African wild dog, spotted hyaena, and occasionally cheetah.

Walking in the wilderness is a wonderful way of being even closer to nature, observing the smaller creatures and flora you miss when travelling by vehicle. Our expert guides welcome the opportunity to share their bushlore adventures ...

* Seasonal and subject to the availability of a qualified walking guide.

There is no better way of viewing wildlife, and exploring the crystal clear channels of the Okavango Delta than by traditional mokoro (dugout canoe). Often providing up close and personal sightings of tiny painted reed frogs and glorious waterlilies.

* Water levels permitting, however, usually possible all year round.

A boat ride along the calm waters of the delta is another idyllic form of water wildlife viewing. Sighting pods of hippo and crocodile is common in the waterways.

* Water levels permitting, however, usually possible all year round.

Cast your line, and try your hand at fishing on a catch and release basis. The camp has a limited supply of basic equipment for your use.

* Note that fishing is seasonal as it is prohibited by Botswana law in January and February due to breeding purposes.

The birding at Wilderness Little Vumbura is as varied as it is exceptional all year round. In the summer many migrant species are present, while other specials which are regularly seen include wattled crane, slaty egret, chirping cisticola, fan-tailed widowbird, pink-backed pelican and possibly rosy-throated longclaw for the dedicated birders.

Explore the wilderness on twice daily game drives, and encounter the rich wildlife of the Linyanti. The open 4x4 vehicles allow us to host four guests at a time, with each guest having a ‘window’ seat, thereby offering a more exclusive experience and dedicated time with your passionate guide. Highlights include witnessing fascinating predator interactions, and large elephant herds. Plains game, and the amazing birdlife diversity, offer fantastic sightings as well.

Experience the thrill of a night drive using spotlights to find some of the most amazing, elusive nocturnal animals. These often include lesser bushbabies, spring hares, aardwolf, servals, large spotted genets and, if you are extremely lucky, the elusive pangolin.

Walking in the wild with skilled, armed guides are a wonderful way of being closer to nature. Observe the smaller creatures that you may miss when travelling by vehicle.

* Seasonal and subject to the availability of a qualified walking guide.

Explore the Linyanti River by barge, perfect for lunches, picnics, or sundowners. Glide past sleeping hippos, or find crocodiles sunning themselves on the banks of the lagoon. Water-based game viewing at its finest.

* Water levels permitting.

Boating is another idyllic form of water wildlife viewing in the remarkable Linyanti. Search for those elusive birds so prevalent in calm channel waters.

* Water levels permitting.

Fishing is on a catch and release basis, with camp providing a small stock of basic rods and reels, whereas all fly fishing equipment is to be supplied by guests if required.

* Note that fishing is seasonal as it is prohibited by Botswana law in January and February due to breeding purposes.

Birding is outstanding here, from Okavango specials to mopane woodland species. The Savuti Channel is famous for its high concentration of eagles and raptors. This paradise is internationally recognised as an IBA (Important Bird Area) so do keep your binoculars close at hand!

At the wellness centre, the fully qualified, in-house therapist team offer signature treatments using natural body care products, drawing on bespoke scents developed to capture the essence of soulful relaxation and restoration.

The range of treatments on offer complements the holistic health and wellness journey that is a Wilderness DumaTau safari – and ties guest activities back to the camp’s stated purpose. Time in the wilderness has always had the potential to revitalise the spirit, and at Wilderness DumaTau, this has been taken to the next level through meaningful layers of experiences.

This spa sanctuary is further enhanced by the reimagined menu, which draws on locally sourced ingredients to provide healthier meals that add to the wellness journey, and are in tune with both Botswana’s agricultural heritage, and the latest thinking on nutrition, authentic flavours and sustainable farming.

Nestled into the lush bush for privacy is The Osprey Retreat which includes a drinks and snack counter area, gym, and a Safari Boutique.

* All treatments at an additional cost.

The outdoor stargazing/floating fire deck will continue to be a highlight for guests as they are almost immersed in the wondrous Linyanti River. The perfect spot for a sundowner!