A Kruger Wildlife Roundup

Over the past two weeks, we’ve shared updates about our successful participation in recent trade shows, where we effectively showcased our properties to new audiences. Now, let’s refocus on the essence of the safari experience: wildlife. After all, encountering Africa’s wildlife is the primary reason for your visit! As we approach peak safari season, the bushveld becomes arid and water sources dwindle. During this period, we anticipate animals gathering around waterholes, making it easier to spot big cats. Sightings are already increasing across all camps, and we expect this trend to continue in the upcoming months. Today we’re going to do a quick wildlife roundup from the past two weeks, where we’ll feature a few top notch sightings (you may already have caught some of them on Facebook).

Africa on Foot and nThambo Tree Camp

The Vuyela Pride undeniably holds dominance in this sector of the Klaserie. While fierce prides from the Western area have occasionally ventured into Vuyela territory, they seem to depart as swiftly as they arrive. One memorable sighting involved 7-month-old cubs energetically playing and climbing on a termite mound while awaiting the return of their pride from a hunt.

This leads us into further cat news, with a rather memorable sighting of a leopard draping itself over a thickset branch while snacking on a recent impala kill. Because leopards don’t devour their meal in one setting like lions, this carcass hung around in the tree for some time. Leopards will feast slowly on their meal, ensuring each morsel is savoured. Because kills are stashed in elevated positions, leopards have the freedom to dine at their leisure. It’s no uncommon to spot hyena dancing around the trunk of a tree, angling for falling scraps of meat.

There is a sighting that deserves a second mention; a unique showdown between two ferocious creatures. The team at Africa on Foot spotted a regal tawny eagle grabbling it out with a highly venomous boomslang snake! In the end, it was the eagle that walked away victorious. The snake was no match for those meat-shredding talons.

Sandwiched between the feline sightings in the Klaserie, the teams have enjoyed observing prolific herds of zebra, elephant and buffalo congregating at the waterholes. A sure sign that winter’s dry spell is on its way. nThambo Tree Camp still enjoys in-camp sightings of elephants, with the latest sighting being today.

Chacma Bush Camp

When it comes to spotting giants and predators in the wild, Chacma certainly isn’t taking a back seat. The local Grietjie Pride is spotted on a regular basis, regularly thrilling guests with their “road block antics. Resident ellies, warthogs and flocks of wading birds frequently make their way down to the waterhole in front of camp, keeping guests entertained for hours on end. Recent guest Ingrid Heemskerk’s photos vividly showcase this diversity.

Nyala Safari Lodge

Nyala Safari Lodge is our best kept secret. Overlooking the banks of the seasonal Mohlabetsi River in the Greater Kruger’s Balule Nature Reserve, Nyala is no stranger to exceptional sightings. A recent video sent through by lodge manager Dave, showed a massive herd of buffalo congregating in the dry riverbed at night. The area is floodlit, which allowed for guests to witness this mini-migration of buffalo.

Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside

Umkumbe’s guides are talented photographers only too eager to share their images with the world…for this, we are grateful! Guide Micaela took an amazing portfolio of images, which included everything from leopards to African wild dogs, zebra and lions. The team have also shared some amazing moments in the wild, enjoying morning coffees and sublime sundowners with guests. Umkumbe seems to be enjoying a mix of predator sightings, which aren’t just limited to leopard sightings. There’s been a great balance of both lions and leopard sightings, which are only surpassed by the rarity of wild dog sightings.

Hello from Scandinavia

During the course of last week, we launched a blog post outlining the details of the upcoming Sun Destinations travel trade shows. If you’re following us on social media, you’ll know that we’ve wrapped up our Scandinavian roadshow. To recap, Mallory joined the 3 day Africa Showcase Roadshow hosted by On Show Solutions in Copenhagen, Oslo and Stockholm. Aside from the weather being somewhat icy, the shows were a success and opened up new business connections and insight into the Nordic market.

Mallory says, “The journey from Copenhagen to Oslo, culminating in Stockholm, has been an incredible one. Engaging with about 140 trade partners along the way provided invaluable market insights. Introducing Sun Destinations and presenting our properties sparked immense interest and great feedback and I look forward to engaging with them further in future. We’re thrilled to deepen our presence in the Nordic market, with hopes of further exploration ahead. A heartfelt appreciation to the fellow exhibitors for making this whirlwind experience enjoyable. Special gratitude to Jacqui, Amanda, and their team for orchestrating this remarkable roadshow. And a big thank you to Gerald for facilitating connections and enriching our journey with invaluable insights.”

Next on our agenda is Durban’s Travel Indaba, where we will be exhibiting at two stands in the ICC – the ATTA Stand and the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve stand. Indaba is one of THE travel trade shows to attend; and is the largest pan-African inbound show. Our directors, along with Mallory and Monique, are headed to Durban to showcase our Kruger and Botswana portfolio.

Again, we truly value the importance of face-to-face meetings and connecting with our agents on a more meaningful level. Unable to join us at trade shows? No worries! Discover the magic of our Kruger camps and lodges in our recent blog post. And now, get ready to be dazzled as we unveil the wonders of our Botswana camps and lodges.

Boteti Tented Camp

Boteti Tented Camp is conveniently located on the outskirts of Maun, making it a fantastic stopover going to or coming from your safari destination. The camp offers a safari experience of its own and insight into the local community. Upon arrival, guests are treated to a complimentary 2-hour mokoro trip along the Boteti River. A stay includes one activity per day, which can be anything from game drives into the Moremi Game Reserve to a trip to the famed Makgadikgadi Pans National Park.

Boteti Tented Camp sleeps 10 people in 5 Meru-style canvas tents built on wooden platforms. Each expansive tent sleeps 2 people maximum, and has ample space to move around.

If you’re looking to ramp up your safari experience after a jam-packed safari adventure, Boteti comes recommended. It introduces you to a slice of the authentic, local Maun way of life while allowing you to add additional safari tours to your overall experience.

Mankwe Tented Retreat

Mankwe Tented Retreat is a sanctuary-style lodge on the doorstep of the Moremi Game Reserve, and offers a pocket of simple sophistication amidst rugged bushveld surrounds. Game drives take place in the private concession, which is home to a large waterhole where wildlife seeks refuge during the drier months.

In total, there are 10 tented suites. Tents are built on raised wooden platforms, each with its own private viewing deck. Expansive bedrooms offer a configuration of two twins or a king-sized bed. Bathrooms are ensuite with a shower and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness through the canvas windows. On-site there are two swimming pools, expansive wooden decks, a pool bar and various relaxation lounges.

Oozing style, Mankwe is a fantastic addition to any Botswana safari.

Camp Savuti

Camp Savuti is situated in a remote corner of the Chobe National Park, right on the famed Savuti channel that floods and dries up without warning. The area is known for lion, African wild dog and other predator sightings; among other species. Twice-daily game drives take place in the Savute Marsh area.

There are five authentic canvas tents subtly hidden among the bush willows, raised on wooden stilts. Each unit has its own wooden deck, complete with chairs for two; carpeted floors inside; twin or king-size beds with headboards and pure cotton linen.

Camp Savuti is an authentic camp with heart and soul, located in one of southern Africa’s most revered safari destinations.

Camp Linyanti

Similar to Camp Savuti, Camp Linyanti is also located in a sought-after safari destination. Camp Linyanti offers guests an authentic and intimate safari experience. Located on the Linyanti lagoon with views of unexplored waterways, riverine forests and floodplains; Camp Linyanti is one of the Chobe’s hidden gems.

**Camp Linyanti is currently closed for rebuild**

Mboma Island Expeditions

Frequently referred to as “magical Mboma’ because of its prime position on the waterways of the Godikwe Lagoo in the Okavango Delta, Mboma Island Expeditions is ideal for adventurers seeking a stylish glamping safari experience. This mobile safari set-up redefines camping excellence and offers the best of both land and water based safari activities.

Magical Mboma has 5 light Meru-style canvas tents equipped with twin beds and en suite, open-air bathrooms. Everything about this camp is eco-friendly, from the sole use of solar-power, to bucket showers, and chemical toilets. Tents are fully furnished using the finest linen and kitted out in the creature comforts from home. Lantern lined pathways lead the way from the rooms to the main camp.

The location of Mboma is key: it’s in a protected area of the Okavango Delta and is accessible by boat. Offering the ultimate Botswana safari experience, Mboma comes highly recommended for your Okavango Delta safari.

Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge

Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge, located in the lesser-explored Kasane Forest Reserve, borders the Zambezi National Park in the northern stretches of Botswana. The beautifully appointment lodge surrounds a waterhole that’s a major drawcard for high concentrations of elephant. It’s not uncommon to see the herds jostling and young bulls play fighting while enjoying a breakfast on the deck.

Boasting 20 bedrooms that all face the waterhole (two levels), this secluded hideaway ensures every need is met in terms of accommodation. Fans, mosquito nets, safes, private balconies with seating, and butler’s trays in each room provide a much needed sense of comfort. In addition to the standard bedroom options, there are also 2 luxury Meru style tents on raised platforms that cater for guests requiring something a little bit more luxurious.

Included in your safari experience are two activities per day, which can include sundowner drives to the Kazuma Pan; a full day into the Chobe National Park for game drives and a boat cruise; cultural village tours; and day trips to Victoria Falls.

Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge is a place to keep busy, while offering all the quintessential things expected of a stellar safari experience to Botswana.

Our Botswana camps and lodges can be booked separately, or our team can create the perfect Trails of Botswana route to ensure you see the signature safari hotspots of one of southern Africa’s most pristine destinations.

Meet Face to Face with Sun Destinations

We consistently try to keep up with digital trends and the latest buzz in the safari travel industry, but we still value the connections and networking built from face-to-face meetings. One of our top priorities is attending travel trade shows, both locally and internationally. Within this crowded digital world, physical representation is still key to maintaining and building relationships. Our recent presence at WTM Africa will attest to this. Both Mallory and Monique forged new relationships, answered questions from our long-established agents, and showcased our properties.

Mallory and Monique said, “Our experience at WTM was nothing short of amazing! Our schedule was packed to the brim for all three days, meeting with new agents, reconnecting with existing ones, and showcasing exciting updates within our company and portfolio. It was lovely to put faces to names for some of the wonderful agents we’ve dealt with over the years. It’s such a phenomenal experience to be a part of, showcasing loads of gems within the industry. The positive feedback we received was great, and we couldn’t be happier with how the show turned out!”

We’re not surprised that WTM was hit, given that ATTA had this to say “This year’s WTM Africa saw a significant 53% increase in attendance compared to the previous year. Unofficial figures suggest participation from a whopping 88 countries worldwide, highlighting the growing momentum behind African tourism”

And when is our next trade show? Next up is Denmark, Sweden and Norway! Mallory will be attending the Africa Showcase roadshow with On Show Solutions. Tapping into our growing Nordic market face-to-face is a first for Sun Destinations, and we’re excited to introduce our properties to this burgeoning market. The roadshow takes place from 17:00 to 21:00 over 3 days in Stockholm, Copenhagen and Oslo. Tune into our social media platforms, where we’ll share a few updates from our Scandi roadshow.

If you’re wondering what’s in store for the future in terms of roadshows, we have you covered. Our team will be at Africa’s Travel showcase from 14 – 16 May in Durban and 1 – 3 July at Experience Africa in London. We understand that not everyone can attend trade shows, which is why we offer virtual product meetings where you can tailor and steer the meeting according the products you’d like to hear about.

To recap, these are the camps and lodges across Kruger portfolio. Next week, while Mallory presents at the Nordic roadshow, we’ll introduce our Botswana portfolio.

Africa on Foot

Africa on Foot is located in the heart of the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, a Big 5 reserve sharing unfenced borders with neighbouring reserves. The small and intimate camp specialises in professionally guided walking safaris in the morning and game drives in the afternoon. Walking safaris aside, Africa on Foot offers its guests a romantic treehouse; two swimming pools; and warm hospitality.

nThambo Tree Camp

nThambo’s claim-to- fame is its wooden cabins on stilts that offer elevated views of endless bushveld terrain. There are only 5 chalets, which means a personalised safari experience. Guests are afforded abundant opportunities to spot game on game drives, or from camp. It’s not uncommon to spot elephants drinking from the camp’s swimming pool.

Nambu Camp

Sitting comfortably on an old anthill raised above the landscape, rests a simple and sophisticated camp called Nambu. The location in the heart of the Big 5 Olifants West Nature Reserve, combined with its stellar guiding and warm hospitality, makes Nambu a sought-after lodge in the Greater Kruger. This family-owned camp offers twice-daily game drives and an elevated sense of luxury.

Chacma Bush Camp

Located in the lesser-known Maseke Game Reserve, charming Chacma Bush Camp offers the perfect big five safari experience in 8000 hectares of undulating landscapes punctuated with rocky outcrops. The camp sleeps a maximum of 10 people, in just 3 stone thatched chalets, ensuring a personalised safari experience. Right in front of the raised patio and pool area, is a waterhole favoured by the local elephant herds. Guests often sit on the pool loungers just watching the elephants frolicking.

Africa on Foot Wilderness Trails

Wilderness Trails is the sister company to Africa on Foot, and offers a scheduled 3-day walking safari through the Maseke Balule Game Reserve. Nights are spent cocooned in dome tents in a secluded location. Each tent is equipped with beds and en-suite showers, and offers spectacular wilderness views. Trails offer an immersive experience into the heart of the Greater Kruger.

Bundox River Lodge

Bundox River Lodge is ideally located on the banks of the burgeoning Olifants River in the northern reaches of the Balule Nature Reserve. Bundox sets a new standard of luxury with its glamorous river facing Meru style tents, each built on raised wooden platforms overlooking the bend in the river below.
Bundox River Lodge’s pride of place on the water’s edge combined with its luxury canvas suites, exudes that iconic Okavango Delta camp atmosphere, making it unique to the Kruger. In keeping with the understated sophistication of the Bundox brand, this camp marries light wood with classic canvas to create a lodge in harmony with its environment. Only the finest linen, textiles and fixtures are used throughout. The 5 tented suites are spacious and designed perfectly to let in streams of natural light.

Sausage Tree Safari Camp

The classic Sausage Tree Safari Camp is an idyllic destination for guests seeking an understated “Kruger under canvas” style camp. Located in the heart of a Big 5 region in the Olifants West Nature Reserve, Sausage Tree is a sanctuary for all things wild. The entire camp sprawls across terrain dotted with Marula, Acacia thorn and Sausage Trees; and has commanding views of the dramatic Drakensberg Mountains. There’s no mistaking it —Sausage Tree is a captivating place. Your accommodation is a choice of five expansive Meru-style tents resting comfortably on raised wooden platforms with views of the surrounding area. Tents have private decks, an outdoor shower, indoor bath, ample floor and storage space, and eco air conditioning.

Nyala Safari Lodge

Resting comfortably on the banks of the seasonal Mohlabetsi River in the Greater Kruger’s Balule Nature Reserve sits the inimitable Nyala Safari Lodge. Distinct in design, this 5-bedroomed lodge offers thatched accommodation in an iconic rondawel style, an archetype of Kruger accommodation. Nyala’s main area has a wrap-around viewing deck mimicking the curves of the river, and runs the full length of the lodge.

The entire lodge is shaded by weeping Boer-beans and ancient Jackalberry trees, ensuring respite from the heat during the sizzling summer months. There’s also a swimming pool on-site-and decking area to ensure the most is made out of those balmy summer days. Don’t be surprised to spot bushbuck and vervet monkeys while lounging around the pool area.

Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside

Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside is ideally located in the heart of the Sabie Game Reserve in the Greater Kruger. This well-established lodge overlooks the seasonal Sand River and offers daily game drives in a traverse known for its leopard sightings. Bush walks are also available upon request. In total, there are 10 rooms, some of which are interleading. The superior rooms each have an outdoor shower and four of them overlook the Sand River. Most of the rooms have an outdoor seating area, complete with camping chairs and relaxation spots.

Ezulwini Game Lodges

Situated in the heart of the Olifants West Nature Reserve, sit two luxurious sister lodges Ezulwini River Lodge and Ezulwini Billy’s Lodge. Ezulwini River Lodge lies low on the banks of the Olifants River with a timber viewing deck under sweeping fig and mahogany trees. This luxury lodge is situated in the heart of the Big 5 Olifants West Nature Reserve. Accommodation at River Lodge is stylish and boasts interiors inspired by the natural elements of the surrounding bushveld. There are four luxury chalets, four superior suites and one honeymoon superior suite.

Ezulwini Billy’s Lodge is a grand structure accentuated with leadwood pillars and thatched ceilings, and features a raised skywalk that leads to a private waterhole. An open-air boma and a wine cellar built into a natural rock cave with handcrafted display table add to the unique merit of Billy’s Lodge.

An Okavango Delta Safari

An Okavango Delta safari opens up a world of opportunity to spot wildlife rarities while enjoying iconic water safari activities such as boating and mokoro. Most safari goers choose to safari in the Okavango Delta because it’s a UNESCO world heritage site that’s pristine, untouched and boasts unsurpassed game viewing opportunities. Most people are drawn to the area because of its remarkable beauty, geography and sublime places to stay. You cannot visit Botswana without a stop in the Okavango Delta.

Click here to book your Okavango Delta safari with Sun Destinations

The Okavango Delta was formed roughly 60,000 years ago from a result of tectonic plate movement that stopped the flow of the Okavango River. It’s the world’s largest inland delta and offers a mosaic of lagoons, permanent swamps, seasonally flooded grasslands, waterways and islands. The Okavango “sinks” into a unique landscape characterised by typical arid Kalahari vegetation. This inland Delta system is a sanctuary and oasis for a wealth of wildlife that congregate on the banks and on every bend in this oasis. For birders, an Okavango Delta safari is a must.

The concentrations of waders, birds of prey and passerines on the banks of the channel is remarkable. There are heronries, nests and constant birdsong. Within the Moremi Game Reserve and Khwai region, this is where you’ll discover leopard, lion, and African wild dogs. Antelope like red lechwe, waterbuck, sitatunga (an Okavango Delta special), elephants, giraffe and zebra are commonly spotted. Birds to spot include African fish eagle, slaty egret, wattled crane and African skimmer, amongst others.

Activities on an Okavango Delta Safari

The Delta offers a combination of both land and water-based safari experiences. Here are a few of our favourites:

Mokoro: Traditionally, mokoros were constructed from the trunk of a Kigelia (sausage) tree and used for local transport across the myriad of waterways. In an effort to conserve the trees, mokoros are now made from other materials such as fibreglass. The canoe-like vessel is manually “driven” through the channels by a poler. A guided mokoro trip is now a sought-after activity in Botswana.
Boating: Boating offers a fantastic way of spotting wildlife on the reed-lined banks of the Delta’s open waterways. These small motorised boats speed through the waterways, providing plenty of opportunity to see wildlife. They’re too big to navigate the narrow channels, which are usually reserved for mokoro adventures.
Game drives: Game drives typically take place in the Moremi Game Reserve, a protected area that combines the best of dry savannah and mosaic of waterways. The Moremi is home to wild dogs, the Big 5 and a plethora of birdlife.
Walking tours: Guided walking tours offer an introduction

Okavango Delta Safari Accommodation

Looking for the ultimate Okavango Delta safari accommodation? We have just the place—Mboma Island Expeditions. The Okavango Delta offers numerous accommodation options, ranging from comfortable to classic tented camps and safari lodges. Most of them are situated in remote locations on the fringes of waterways, islands or on the outskirts of the Moremi.

We love Mboma for your Okavango Delta safari accommodation because it offers an authentic place to stay and it’s eco-friendly. Mboma is mobile camping with expansive Meru-style tents fully-kitted with beds, ensuite bathrooms, wardrobes and an outdoor seating area. Located on the edge of the game rich Moremi Game Reserve at the meeting point of the Delta’s waterways and the unique Moremi savannah, Mboma is nothing short of magical.

Mboma Island Expeditions offers:

5 light Meru-style canvas tents equipped with twin beds and ensuite, open-air bathrooms
Exquisite location in a well-known wildlife hotspot and a protected part of the famed Okavango Delta
Reduced carbon footprint – everything about camp is eco-friendly
Best of land based and water safaris
Unfenced camp with wildlife free to roam freely throughout.

Botswana Safari Tours

Interested in combining your Okavango Delta with other popular safari destinations in Botswana? Then choose from our range of Botswana safari tours and Okavango Delta tours.

4 Night – ICONIC BOTSWANA From US $3020
4 Night – CLASSIC DELTA From US $3140
4 Night – ULTIMATE SAFARI From US $3740
5 Night – DISCOVERING BOTSWANA From US $3920
6 Night – BLISSFUL BOTSWANA From US $4520
6 Night – SAFARI SERENITY From US $4800
8 Night – RIVERSIDE EXPLORER From US $5550
10 Night – BEST OF BOTSWANA From US $6970

We Answer Your Okavango Delta Safari FAQs

Thinking about an Okavango Delta safari but have some FAQs before embarking on this journey of a lifetime? Don’t worry, our team is here to assist! The Okavango Delta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site sprawling across the remote and pristine Kalahari basin of Botswana; and is one of the most coveted safari destinations in Africa. Planning for this safari isn’t a last-minute affair; it requires careful preparation. Our crown jewel in the Okavango Delta is Mboma Island Expeditions, offering a magical experience for adventurous souls seeking both land and water-based safari experiences.

To help you plan your journey, we’ve scoured the web for 10 of the best and most popular Okavango Delta safari FAQs.

Where is the Okavango Delta and how was it formed?

The Okavango Delta is the world’s largest inland delta (alluvial fan) located in the western region of Botswana, sprawling across 16,000 sq. km of land—it was formed an estimated 60,000 years ago. The source of the Okavango Delta sits in the Angolan Highlands, home to numerous smaller tributaries (principally Cuito and Cubango) that converge on Angola’s border to form the Okavango River. Tectonic plate movement stopped the flowing, causing the mass of water to drain into the landscape.

Comprising swamps, lagoons, seasonally flooded grasslands, riparian forest and woodlands, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit. Instead of flowing into the sea, this inland delta’s waters are soaked up by the arid desert sands of the Kalahari Basin. The landscapes shifts during the seasons, making it one of the most ecologically diverse areas in Africa. It is the ultimate oasis offering the best of both land and water based game viewing.

How do I get there?

Known as the gateway to the Okavango Delta, Maun is the closest international airport. From here they either arrange a smaller charter flight to their camp/lodge that lands at a small bushveld airstrip, road transfer or boat transfer. Most Okavango camps and lodges are remote, requiring either a combination of flying and boating or a road transfer followed by boating, especially if you’re staying on one of the islands.

Click here to find out how you would get to Mboma Island Expeditions

Can I do game drives in the Okavango Delta?

Yes. The area is quite aquatic nature, which is why only the experienced conduct their own self-drives. Most guests go on guided game drives with their camp/lodge, which usually traverse their own private concessions and regions within the Moremi Game Reserve. The Moremi is where Mboma Island Expeditions conducts their game drives.

Is the Okavango Delta expensive?

Yes, but for good reason. It’s remote, secluded, pristine and completely uncrowded. Botswana has a low impact high cost model, where there’s a limit to the number of guests and camps within areas; ensuring the Okavango Delta remains pristine.

The most affordable and immersive way of experiencing the Delta is to opt for a luxury glamping mobile safari like Mboma Island Expeditions.

What is the best time of year for an Okavango Delta safari?

Typically, the Delta has three distinct seasons: low, green and peak season. Peak season is from June to October. This is when the rains subside and the channels/lagoons are full – and it’s easier to spot wildlife. December to March is low season, where you’ll experience lush landscapes and incredible birding. It’s also the season to see the zebra migration. Green or shoulder season is when wildlife like impala and other antelope give birth.

What wildlife can I see in the Okavango Delta?

Red lechwe, sitatunga, slaty egret, puku and African open bill are just a few of the rarities to look out for while in the Okavango Delta. There are 500 species of bird, over 80 species of fish, 160 mammal species – including a wealth of big cats. The Okavango Delta boasts high concentrations of wildlife, in particular elephants.

What is the weather like in the Okavango Delta?

It depends on the season. Summers are extremely hot and humid, while winters can be cold. Mornings are usually crisp, and it gets hot during the day. While boating, you’ll feel the cold breeze off the water, so pack warm clothes. Generally, you can expect a warm/hot climate year-round.

What accommodations are available in the Okavango Delta?

From high end to classic camps and mobile camps, the Okavango Delta offers a range of accommodations, most of which have a minimal impact on the environment. Mboma Island Expeditions is a mobile safari camp with expansive Meru-style tents, kitted out with all the creature comforts of home. The entire camp is set-up just before guests arrive.

How far in advance do I need to book my safari to the Okavango Delta?

Because Mboma Island Expeditions is an eco-aware, mobile camp with a small number of guests and is closed from December to March, you’ll need to book in advance.

What is a mokoro?

A mokoro is an ancient mode of water transport that takes the shape of a canoe. In days gone by, a traditional mokoro was carved out of a Kigelia (sausage tree) or Ebony tree trunk. These vessels were used to carry goods across narrow channels and waterways by poling slowly through the waters (was this the start of stand-up paddle boarding??!). To conserve the trees, modern mokoros are made from fibreglass and other materials.

We can arrange other camps as add-ons to Mboma, that form part of carefully curated Botswana itineraries.

Your Monthly Dose of Kruger Wildlife

It’s about high time we filled out your prescription and administered your monthly dose of wildlife, a theme we hope to continue over the next few months. After all, nature is the finest therapy! As we slowly migrate into the peak safari season, we’re noticing a shift in bushveld colours and increase in predator sightings. Giant herbivore herds are also appearing in dense concentrations, delighting onlookers with their often comical behaviours’. Our content channels are buzzing with reports of big cats, wild dogs, elephants in camp, and side-striped jackals hooting and howling on camp perimeters. There was also a real showstopper sighting of a pangolin.

Chacma Bush Camp, Maseke

Local lion legends, the Grietjie Pride have become quite comfortable on Chacma’s traverse. If you recall, a few weeks ago this hungry pride was seen gorging on a buffalo kill. Since then, they’ve been spotted on a regular basis engaging in very lion-like behaviours. It’s incredible to see sightings of this pride escalating, indicating that they’re happy with the prey and water sources on offer in the reserve.

On 24 March, Chacma’s guides were trundling down the jeep track when they stumbled across the pride sprawled across the road. Lions are known to sleep for up to 20 hours during the heat day, which meant our talented guides had to navigate their way around the flat cats. In total there were 4 sub-adult and two lionesses from the pride showing off for the camera.

Just when you thought things couldn’t get more awe-inspiring, camp manager Karen sends through yet another incredible safari update…A lone male African wild dog appeared at the waterhole in front of camp to replenish his thirst! There are only four African wild dogs that come into this area of Chacma, marking this as a rare occurrence.

Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside, Sabie

We’ll never tire of featuring Umkumbe’s remarkable lion and leopard sightings. The Sabie Game Reserve is the heart and soul of predator activity, with a biodiverse landscape that provides abundant easy meals, drainage lines and riverbeds for hiding cubs, and easy access to water during the drier winter months. It’s a haven for predators.

Here’s a summary of the sightings enjoyed over the past few weeks:

The Kambula Pride of lions, together with their cubs, were spotted on a warthog kill
Again the Kambula Pride was spotted but this time with the N’waswitshaka male
The team enjoyed another lion sighting of the Kambula Breakaways
A rare sighting of a hyena darting through a crash of rhino, provided a bit of game viewing entertainment for everyone
The guiding team reported an endearing sighting of a huge elephant herd with a really young calf feasting and feeding on greens
A sighting that really stood out was that of Ntsumi the leopard walking in front of the lodge
In other Umkumbe news, Ndzanzeni the leopard was seen casually walking down the road toward the vehicle, not flinching as it strutted past.

nThambo Tree Camp and Africa on Foot, Klaserie

I know what you’re thinking: Vuyela Pride of lions. But what if I said Western Pride of lions? April Fools’ Day is long gone, so this isn’t a joke. For the second time in a couple of months, a small pride of lions from the western area have wandered across into Vuyela turf around Africa on Foot and nThambo Tree Camp. Some believe these are breakaways from the Sark Pride. Could this breakaway pride cause trouble for the Vuyelas? We’re not sure yet—but so far, so good.

Right…back to the Vuyela Pride of lions. They were spotted feasting on a zebra carcass just recently and a kudu kill a few weeks ago together with their cubs. From gorging on kills to lying across the road and sharing affectionate moments, the Klaserie team frequently spot the Vuyelas engaging in typical lion behaviour.

Iconic guide JD, Calvin and the team were leading a group at Africa on Foot when they spotted yet another apex predator: African wild dogs! The dogs were seen in full course mode chasing after an impala on both game drives and walking safari. Also, the team enjoyed a magnificent sighting of a leopard, buffalo, and elephants frequenting nThambo Tree Camp’s swimming pool.

Two of the more unique sightings included that of the shy Schlegel’s blind snake (Africa’s largest blind snake), white rhino and….a PANGOLIN!

#GuestSafariFeedback: Delving into the World of Brenda Kerr

We’re delighted to unveil today’s #GuestSafariFeedback article, a much-anticipated guest-centric blog piece where we interview the dynamic Brenda Kerr. Brenda is a cherished member of our online community and is known for her thoughtful interactions and insightful feedback across our social channels. With her extensive experience exploring our camps, Brenda has evolved into a trusted on-the-ground expert, offering invaluable insights from a guest’s viewpoint.

We’re simply smitten by Brenda and her dedicated fandom. When our team discovered her talent as a children’s book author, it only added another layer of intrigue. You might notice that she mentions her son Rogan in her answers—he is none other than Roaming Media, a sought-after wildlife content creator, videographer and photographer. Anyway, let’s get back to Brenda.

Without delay, let’s delve into the world of BRENDA.

Brenda, you’re one of our biggest fans! Which of the camps in our portfolio have you visited?

I have been to Chacma twice, Nambu once, Nthambo Tree Camp twice and Africa on Foot three times.

Which of the “unvisited” camps in our portfolio do you have your sights set on?

Well … any and all! I would absolutely love to visit the Botswana camps.

Please list one wildlife sighting from each camp that stood out for you.

It’s always the cats for me! A very special encounter with Nyaleti (?) on our last trip to Nthambo. I think we spent close to an hour with her, close up and personal. She really showed off. Rogan and I had a very brief glimpse of her crossing the drainage with two cubs on a later visit to Africa on Foot. At least we thought it was her! Another favourite sighting was when Rogan and I sat at sunset with a big male lion near Africa on Foot, watching him disdainfully ignore us as he chilled in the last rays of the sun. He slowly got up and gave us a fabulous chorus of sunset roars!

I am also really very happy to have been able to get up close to several resident white rhino in the Klaserie. As you know this is a particular passion of mine. At Chacma I have loved sitting by the pool overlooking the waterhole and watching the elephant come to drink. Such a peaceful and unique experience.

Nambu was a treat! We finally saw wild dogs—a first for me and also had several fab sightings of Ezulwini (not sure of his name)—but a magnificent old BIG tusker. Such a relaxed fellow. He really helped me get over my fear of being too close to ellies!

Tell us about an aspect of the safari experience that tourists don’t read about in guidebooks.

No-one can imagine the soul replenishing feeling that a safari experience gifts you. Waking to the joyous sound of bird song encouraging you to get up and go, that early morning coffee laced with Amarula on the back of a game drive vehicle warming you up as you watch the sunrise over a misty waterhole, and the adrenalin rush of seeing your first leopard/lion/wild dog. Then, there’s the peaceful calmness of observing a breeding herd of ellies as they rumble gently to each other and silently graze their way through the brush, only the cracking of branches giving their location away. Of course, the enthusiastic welcome from camp staff every time you return to the lodge makes you feel like royalty, while boma fires and shared stories after a fabulous evening meal provides connection. And finally, going to sleep with a chorus of insects lulling you into oblivion. There just is nothing to compare with a visit to these wild places.

What predator do you most enjoy spotting on safari, and which “small” creature holds a special place in your heart?

That’s a hard one! I think a leopard, but lion, wild dogs, hyenas—they all hold charm. I would love to see a wild cat, but I also really enjoy seeing a honey badger! My favorite small creature is probably an elephant shrew!

What can our guests expect from the safari experience, over and above the usual safari activities?

Sun Destinations offers so much more than just a generic “safari experience”. Guests can personalise their visits, with private celebratory sundowner “picnics” for special occasions like anniversaries, birthdays etc. Fabulous game viewing from pool decks in all of the resorts, great meals and choice of cocktails etc served with a smile and lots of ice on hot days. Walking safaris for the brave from Africa of Foot. Comfortable rooms, beautifully furnished, all the facilities needed at hand(I particularly liked the portable siren next to my bed in case of an emergency!) The fact that these camps have limited guest numbers makes for a very pleasant, personal visit. Family groups are always catered for with consideration to other guests and transported separately on drives.

Tell us about yourself. Where did your passion for the wild begin?

I grew up in Zimbabwe, wild and free. As a little girl my Granny used to encourage me to look for the beauty in the ordinary, small, often overlooked plants and creatures. Africa is in my soul – its rich diversity is just so inspiring. I cannot imagine living anywhere else. There is still so much to explore and enjoy!

How has being immersed in nature during your safari experiences impacted your perspective on conservation?

I am passionate about conservation. From trees, to grasses, rhinos to antlions. The more I visit our nature reserves, and see the impact of human settlement and climate change, the more motivated I am to preserve, protect, and extend the wild spaces of our land. I believe that education is the most important factor in achieving these goals. Tourism is a hugely beneficial source of income for affected communities on the borders of our reserves, so giving them the knowledge and understanding of the importance of these spaces is key.

During your downtime at our camps and lodges, what do you do?

CHILL! I read, walk around the camp, watch the birds, follow snakes (!) to make sure they leave, wait in anticipation for the bats to disembark on their nightly adventures and swarm out of the bat box, swim, sleep. I just revel in being there and don’t want to miss a single minute.

And lastly…This one’s about you. What inspired your children’s book “Counting in Africa”?

Growing up in Zimbabwe, I developed a love of the open spaces and the bush, and the increase in poaching have all been motivators. I was surprised at the lack of knowledge our children have about the big and little five, so used this platform as a way of entertaining and educating at the same time. It has led to me being able to visit numerous schools in South Africa and Zimbabwe and share the importance of learning the truth about the waning numbers of wildlife in our continent, and being able to encourage children to participate actively in conservation efforts wherever they find them.

The Counting in Africa book is aimed primarily at children aged two to ten, but has appeal to parents and educators as well. It is also extremely well suited to the tourist industry as a memento of visits to the game reserves, and is a perfect, lightweight gift to take home to family and friends overseas. Will also appeal to expats who miss our beautiful continent and want to share their heritage with their families and friends. A great book for gift shops at lodges, for children to use and refer to on game drives.

I have a framed photo of a crash of rhino who I sat with in Kruger for a few peaceful minutes some years ago. It brought to mind the wonderful poem by Wendell Berry “The Peace of Wild Things”. I have adapted it for Africa and myself …

“When despair for the world grows in me, and I wake in the night at the least sound in fear of what my life and my children’s lives may be, I go and lie down where the wild rhino’s roam, and the great lions lie in the shade of the spreading marula trees. I come into the peace of wild things who do not tax their lives with forethought or grief. I come into the presence of still water. And I feel above me the day blind stars waiting with their light. For a time I rest within the grace of the world, and am free.”

BRENDA, THANK YOU FOR SPENDING TIME WITH US!

The Lodge Life at Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside

Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside cemented its position on the map for being a place to spot leopards, earning itself a reputation as being “leopard central”. Its location in the newly formed Sabie Game Reserve (previously part of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve), ensures guests are never short of, arguably, award-winning predator sightings. There is a high density of prey in the area, abundant drainage lines for cubs, and ready availability of water, which are all the “ingredients” needed to make predator populations thrive. The Sabie Game Reserve is centred around the confluence of the Sabie and Sand Rivers, and is a hotspot for a diverse array of species. Twice-daily guided game drives from the team at Umkumbe, along with optional bush walks, offer abundant opportunities to spot an array of species.

Amidst these exhilarating activities, the lodge offers moments of relaxation and downtime. Curious about how to make the most of your free time? Then read on to discover the array of on-site amenities and experiences at Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside.

A Safari Style Gym

The small gym at Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside has enough essential equipment for a satisfying workout. Fitness enthusiasts keen on maintaining their cardio fitness can make use of the treadmills, which offer a picturesque view of the lush lawns. It’s not unusual to spot a variety of wildlife such as bushbuck, vervet monkeys, and nyala grazing on the grass. In fact, one guest recently had the delightful experience of spotting an elephant while working out in the gym. A gym with these kinds of wilderness views? Count us in!

The Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside gym is open to all guests and provides an opportunity to burn off the delicious safari-style meals served during your stay. Unlike many lodges that lack exercise facilities, Umkumbe recognizes the importance for guests to stay active and energized while on safari.

The Safari Curio Shop

It’s always delightful to bring back a handmade curio from your vacation destination. Rather than hurrying through the airport’s duty-free shops, take your time exploring Umkumbe’s small yet jampacked curio shop. You’ll find everything from soft toys to accessories and locally crafted items available for purchase. Whether you’re looking to bring a piece of your safari back for loved ones or seeking a memento of your Kruger holiday, Umkumbe’s shop has something special for everyone.

Poolside and Viewing Deck

Umkumbe’s swimming pool is perfectly placed to take advantage of the views. The pool is placed in the centre of the wooden viewing deck and winding pathway, and flows to the edge of the deck. Both the poolside deck and pool directly look down onto the seasonal Sand River, an area that’s a major drawcard for buffalo, elephants and a variety of common species like nyala, impala and zebra. Guests frequently relax in the pool and soak up the sun while trying to spot wildlife. The deck area is adorned with sun loungers, while the expansive viewing deck is the ideal place to catch up with fellow travellers or connect with new friends. Get a coffee, a drink and game watch from the lodge.

Have you ever lazed around in a small swimming pool while staring at elephants? If you haven’t, you can at Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside!

Spa Treatments

While on safari, you’ll find plenty of time to relax. During your “lodge life” time, you can choose to engage in a gym session, hang out at the poolside or relax in the lounge. If you’re after a complete pamper session, Umkumbe can also arrange that for you. Your spa treatment sessions need to be prebooked with reservations and paid directly at camp. Make your safari both an adventure and an indulgence!

Lounge Area with Snooker Table

Why bother with pubs and clubs when you can enjoy a lounge area and snooker table during your safari adventure? Whether it’s daytime entertainment or a post-drinks session at the boma area, the lounge provides a perfect setting for a few rounds of games. If snooker or pool isn’t your preference, there’s also a suite of comfortable couches available for relaxation.

While on safari in the Sabie Game Reserve with Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside, you’ll find plenty of opportunity to enjoy the lodge life at Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside!

Our Top 5 Compelling Reasons to Choose Mboma Island Expeditions

Mboma Island Expeditions champions eco-friendly safaris in the Okavango Delta, seamlessly blending the best of both land and water-based game viewing. These are just two of Mboma’s major drawcards—there are a host of other standout features, which we’ll explore in this blog post. Owners Lindi and Chase have created an absolutely enchanting mobile camp where understated style meets a planet-conscious ethos. From location to sustainability, activities and wildlife; there are a wealth of compelling reasons to choose Mboma Island Expeditions for your next Okavango Delta safari.

Here are our top 5.

Champions of the eco-friendly Okavango Delta Safari

Sustainable safaris are sought-after by international tourists. People from around the world are realising the need to conserve the world’s pristine and revered places, so they seek the sublime spots that tread lightly on this earth. Mboma is a champion of eco-friendly safaris, and has truly established itself as a renowned eco-destination.

To recap one of our previous blog posts about Mboma’s eco-friendly status, here are our top 5 reasons why Mboma are leaders when it comes to sustainable safaris:

There is the sole use of solar-power throughout camp
Use of bucket showers and chemical eco-friendly toilets
Decor is in perfect harmony with the surrounds
Tents are constructed prior to guests arrival, and taken down when they leave
Food is locally sourced

Situated on the meeting point of the savanna and waterways

Mboma’s location is both surreal and unreal. When visiting Botswana, safari-goers often combine an iconic savanna-style safari with a quick sojourn on a Delta island. Here’s where Mboma takes centre stage. Located on the meeting point of the Moremi Game Reserve’s savanna floodplains and the crystalline waters of the Delta, makes Mboma a sought-after destination. They’re quite literally at the tip of the famed game rich Moremi Game Reserve, giving them easy access to a wealth of safari activities. It goes without saying that birding is excellent and game viewing superlative.

Water and land based game viewing activities

A safari destination that offers both land an water based safari activities is major win in our books. Because Moremi’s ecosystem is so diverse, the team at Mboma have ensured that all aspects of safaris are covered, from mokoro to boating and game drives. Game viewing from camp is also exceptional. Mboma overlooks the floodplains of the Okavango Delta, and is surrounded by fan palms, jackleberry and sausage trees, and the fascinating waterways of the Godikwe Lagoon. When you’re not soaking up the splendour of camp life, you’ll be out there in the wild, exploring with your dedicated safari guide.

Activities include:

Boating: motorised boats will take you through the narrow papyrus lined channels of the Delta and the lagoons.
Traditional mokoro trips: experience the true Botswana activity, a mokoro trip. An experienced Poler will guide you gently through the channels, where you are encouraged to look closely in the dense reeds where it’s possible to see the shy sitatunga, lechwe and elephants.
Game drives: game drives take place in the famed Moremi Game Reserve, a haven for predators, African wild dogs, cheetah and black rhino. Of course, there are over 500 species of wildlife in the Moremi to spot. You certainly won’t be short of incredible sightings while out on your guided game drive.

Exclusive access to wildlife hotspots

Mboma Island Expeditions can access remote and exclusive areas of the Okavango Delta, away from larger tourist crowds, ensuring a more private safari adventure. Guides do traverse through popular game-rich areas of the Moremi, but Mboma’s remote location lends itself to some intense and immersive game viewing moments. How do you know your location is remote? Look at the “road” to getting there! The more remote a safari destination, the better access to game viewing opportunities and untouched beauty.

Getting to Mboma Island Expeditions requires a few stops. Fly-ins are picked up the bushveld airstrip of Xakanaxa and 4×4 self-drivers are to meet at Mboma Boat Station. From the boat station it’s about an hour to PARADISE! Don’t be surprised to hear hippos honking, ellies in camp, African fish eagles soaring above and more.

It’s glamping, redefined

Our fifth and final reason to choose Mboma Island Expeditions, is simply because “it’s cool”. It’s a level up from glamping – each tent is well-appointed with beautiful pieces of furniture, luggage space, carpets, seating areas and en suite bathrooms. It’s a slice of glamping luxury in the middle of an absolute wildlife haven. The Meru-style tents provide an opportunity for you to experience a true explorer’s way of life.

Big Cats, Big Stories

It’s Big Cat Roundup Day, a day that we’ve set aside to share a few momentous occasions with our ferocious felines. This is a big story day, where we won’t be sharing images of lions lying around. Today is a bigger and better day, where we celebrate cats doing what they do best: taking down prey, nurturing cubs, stalking, and devouring their meals in the most gluttonous fashion. We reached out to our guides across all camps and collated the updates from our Kruger side. Here are the more unique sightings over the past month.

Loving Lions, Ferocious Feeders

Location: Africa on Foot | nThambo Tree Camp

Having been rewarded with both leopard and lion sightings over the past month, the Klaserie is really beginning to shine as a big cat paradise. The recent batch of Vuyela Pride lion cubs is absolutely thriving in their environment, looking well-fed and healthy. When cubs are born, the mother stashes them in a secret spot to nurse. Once they reach six weeks, they are introduced to the rest of the pride. These cubs are now joining the rest of the pride at the ‘dinner table’, having grown from strength to strength

Here is a list of the crazy antics from our lions and leopards:

The Vuyela Pride took down THREE buffalo and spent days feasting on the carcasses
As if the pride isn’t big enough, a Vuyela male and female were caught mating!
In an interesting turn of events, five DIFFERENT lionesses were spotted on the Klaserie traverse. They have been identified as the Sark Pride. They are the natal pride of the Vuyela males.
The Sark Pride was spotted again, this time feasting on a zebra kill.
Two leopard cubs were spotted stuck in a tree, one was balancing on a thin branch! Hyenas were circling below, trapping the cats up above.

Setting aside their playful antics and aggressive take downs, we were fortunate to receive a captivating collection of photographs from Stew Nolan, who skillfully captured our lions in a few endearing moments. From intimate mating scenes to heartwarming moments, his images beautifully reveal the essence of lion behavior.

Lost Lioness, Clever Cat

Location: Chacma Bush Camp

This might not be a “big story”, but it deserves to be called out in today’s blog post. When we’re traversing crunchy khaki bushveld and travelling down unchartered dusty roads, it’s pretty easy to get lost. That’s why lodge signage is always a good thing. We didn’t quite expect one of our top Apex predators to display the capacity to read when lost! These two images were certainly taken in the right place, at the right time.

In more news from Chacma Bush Camp recently spotted the Grietjie Pride of lions gorging on a buffalo kill, with their cubs in tow. There was a clear display of hierarchy at the food table when Karen snapped these images. The lion sightings at Chacma have certainly escalated over the past few months, indicating that the local prides of the area are finding abundant prey and water sources on Chacma’s traverse.

Leopard Looks, Friendly Felines

Location: Nyala Safari Lodge

Nyala Safari Lodge is certainly in the heart of big cat territory in the Greater Kruger’s Balule Nature Reserve. Camp manager, Dave, sent through these incredible images of their recent cat sightings. The images that impressed us the most, were the ones of the leopard and her cub. Their affectionate moments and bond is evident in these pictures. Leopardesses are great mothers and usually nurture their cubs until the age of two, teaching them independence and how to thrive in the wild. After cubs separate from their mother, they typically linger near the edges of her territory and frequently cross over.

Looking for the ultimate Kruger safari where the focus is on spotting big cats in a natural environment? Let the Sun Destinations team arrange the perfect safari in Africa for you. Our Kruger camps and lodges are all located in private Big 5 reserves.

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