Okavango Delta and Desert

Starting from today, we have the same schedule for the next 6 days. However, no two days are the same, each day offers a unique experience in this pristine wilderness.

A typical day begins with an early wake-up call and a light breakfast by the campfire at sunrise. This is the ideal time to embark on a horseback ride along ancient elephant trails, observing various wildlife and bird species. Traverse flooded plains, wooded islands and encounter buffalo herds, giraffes and red lechwe. After returning to camp for lunch and a siesta under the shade of a tree, enjoy a peaceful evening ride listening to the sounds of the bush before dinner under the stars.

Throughout the week, there are opportunities to relax and explore lily-lined lagoons in a mokoro or go on foot with guides to learn tracking skills and observe smaller creatures.

Riding: 4-6 hours

We start this day with a light breakfast and then we go to observe the local wildlife on horseback.

There is no set itinerary, with the location of the camp dependent on water levels and wildlife movements.

The Okavango Delta, which was recently designated as the 1,000th World Heritage Site, is a paradise for horse riders. As the floodwaters flow into the Kalahari sands, herds of animals and birdlife migrate along with them, making horseback riding an ideal way to witness this natural spectacle.

We will canter through the recently flooded plains observing all the wildlife in sight. We return to camp for lunch and siesta in the dense shade of the giant jackalberry or leadwood trees. We will then go for a relaxing evening ride and ride back to camp for dinner under the stars.

Riding: 4-6 hours

We wake up early as usual, have breakfast and have our morning safari ride.

This day may be however a leisure day, both for horses and riders. This looks like the perfect opportunity for a tranquil ride in a mokoro, the traditional way of traversing the glittering, lily-lined lagoons and waterways.

It is a chance too, to venture out on foot to appreciate the smaller creatures that inhabit the bush – or to learn some rudimentary tracking skills.

The lunch and the dinner will be served as per schedule.

Riding: 4-6 hours (optional)

Today will be our last full day of riding and camping in Okavango Delta. 

We'll start this day with a breakfast, then we go for a ride in the area. Herds of buffalo may be in the vicinity, giraffe often saunter by and red lechwe splash through the water along side , whilst kudu peer out from the thickets.

We'll have lunch and a little rest in the shadow provided by the camp and after that we'll embark on our evening horseback ride. It will be a relaxing experience, and the fabulous dinner cooked over a log fire will follow.

Riding: 4-6 hours

Begin your journey back to the edges of the delta and the buffalo fence, which separates the wildlife from domesticated cattle, at a more relaxed pace. From there, you can choose to transfer to Camp Kalahari in the Makgadikgadi pans either by a 50-minute light aircraft flight or a 3-hour road trip. Camp Kalahari is a charming stationary camp surrounded by acacias and moklowane palms, featuring thatched central areas and a refreshing pool.

Following afternoon tea, embark on an introductory horseback ride to explore the enchanting open landscapes of the desert. Return to camp for sundowners to ensure the safety of the horses in the kraal before the lions begin to roam.

Riding: 3-4 hours

Depart early in the morning for a light breakfast before embarking on a morning ride through the region known as the 'land of a thousand islands'. This area, once an ancient lakebed, is now characterized by sand dunes adorned with palm trees, creating a stunning and intriguing landscape. In the dry season, the white salt pans between the islands offer ideal terrain for horseback riding, including opportunities for exhilarating canters.

Return to camp for lunch and a restful siesta. In the afternoon, set out in a game vehicle to search for the elusive brown hyena, expert survivors in desert environments where resources are scarce. As night falls, enjoy a drive back to camp with a spotlight, allowing you to spot nocturnal creatures like aardvarks, bat-eared foxes, porcupines, honey badgers and even the majestic black-maned Kalahari lion.

Riding: 3-4 hours

A highlight for many people, today you will embark on a horseback excursion to observe some of the Kalahari's most charming creatures - the meerkats. Through an ongoing program, you will have the opportunity to get close to these captivating animals, leaving the horses with the caretakers and approaching the meerkats on foot to sit among them. Witness their interactions and perhaps even act as a lookout post if you're fortunate. After observing the meerkats foraging, you will ride along well-traveled paths to encounter resident zebra and ostriches gathered around watering holes before returning to camp for lunch.

Later in the day, you will set out on a quadbike adventure, venturing into the heart of the ancient lakebed. As the sun sets and the stars emerge, you will find yourself surrounded by vast flatness in every direction, experiencing complete silence where you can hear your own heartbeat. With no landmarks in sight, it's easy to lose your sense of direction. After this unique experience, you will return to camp for dinner.

Riding: 3-4 hours

Following breakfast, embark on a journey through the bush to visit a traditional Bushmen village where the local Zu'hoasi community congregates during the day. Your guides have the privilege of collaborating with these families who willingly share their wisdom with each other and visitors. A leisurely two-hour stroll with these remarkable individuals will offer a gentle introduction to the Kalahari and the Bushmen's lifestyle. The group will highlight unique ecological features of the region as well as its diverse animal and bird species. 

After the walk, ride back to camp on horseback for a quick refresh before being transferred back to Maun for your return flight.

Riding: 1-2 hours