The Northern Quest
20 Days: Cape Town to Victoria Falls
South Africa/Namibia/Botswana/Victoria Falls
(3 Nights Lodge and 16 Nights Camping)
2008 Tour fare pp R 9,810 Local payment pp $380 Sgl supplement R 1127
Other tours by same operatorITINERARY DAYS
1 Cape Town. Lodge
2 Depart Cape Town for Lamberts Bay. Camping (BL)
3 Gariep (Orange) River. Camping (BLD)
4 The Fish River Canyon. Camping (BL)
5 - 6 The Namib Naukluft National Park and some of the world’s highest sand dunes. Camping (BLD)
7 - 8 Swakopmund, Lodge (BL & B)
9 - 10 Etosha National Park, 3 game drives. Camping (BL & BLD)
11 Waterberg Plateau National Park. Camping (BLD)
12 Windhoek and proceed to Gobabis. Camping (BL)
13 Maun - gateway to the Okavango Delta. Camping (BL)
14-15 Okavango Delta, two nights "makoro" safari. Camping (BLD)
16 Nata. Camping (BLD)
17 Chobe National Park, river cruise with game viewing. Camping (BL)
18 - 19 Victoria Falls, Camping (BLD & B)
20 Tour Ends (B)DAY 1 - Cape Town
Sample the sights and sounds of this magical city at the Southern end of the African continent. A host of optional activities are available including, trips to Robben Island, Peninsular tours, wine tasting, and much more. All meals on this day will be to the client's expense.Park Inn Greenmarket Square
Address: 10 Greenmarket Square Road, Cape Town
Tel: +27 21 423 2050
DAY 2 - Lamberts Bay (340 km - 5 hours)
Clients to meet at 08h30 am for the pre-departure meeting. We depart Cape Town at approx 10h00 am to Lamberts Bay, where we camp for the night. Here you have the option of visiting the well-known 'Bird Island' (own expense).This is your first night's camping and your guides will give you a full demonstration on how to set up your tents. Normally before or after your evening meal, your guides will talk about the following day's activities, what to expect and let everyone know the time of breakfast for the following morning. Where meals are specified in this dossier, they are included and will be prepared by your guides with some assistance from you. Breakfast and lunch included. Dinner at your own expense.
CAMPING
Lamberts Bay Caravan Park (or similar)
Voortrekker Road, Lamberts Bay
Tel: ++27 (27) 432 2238
Fax: ++27 (27) 432 1517Meals: Breakfast, lunch
DAY 3 - Gariep River (360 km - 5 hours)
We head to the Gariep River and our camp which is located on the banks of the river. This rustic reed river camp is situated on the South African side of the river. Optional activities available include: walks along the river, canoe trips, or just relaxing at the river-side bar. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.CAMPING
Fiddlers Creek (or similar)
On banks of the Gariep River, South African side.
Tel: ++27 (27) 761 8953
Fax: ++27 (27) 761 8953
E-mail: info@bushwacked.co.zaMeals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
DAY 4 - The Fish River Canyon (180 km - 2 hours)
Our first border crossing is into Namibia as we head for the awesome Fish River Canyon. Your guides will assist with all border formalities. There will be ample time to take in a beautiful sunset over the canyon, or partake in an optional walk around the rim of the canyon. Breakfast and lunch included.CAMPING
Canon Roadhouse (or similar)
Fish River Canyon National Park
Tel: ++ (264) 61 230066
Fax: ++ (264) 61 251863
E-mail: info@gondwanapark.comMeals: Breakfast, lunch
DAYS 5 & 6 - The Namib Naukluft National Park (580 km - 9 hours)
We continue on to The Namib Naukluft National Park and the giant sand dunes of Sossusvlei. This is one of the world's oldest deserts, offering over 130 million years of natural wonders, and the highest sand dunes in the world! Optional adventure activities include guided walks, hot air ballooning and light aircraft flights. On day 6 we leave the camp very early and travel into the park. We head for Dune 45 and climb it for a magnificent sunrise, after which we proceed on to Sossusvlei and the 2x4 parking area. From here it is an approximate 5 km walk to the vlei where you are free to explore. There is an option for a guided walk (this is to the clients own expense). We return to camp. In the late afternoon you'll be taken to the nearby Sesriem canyon and return to camp for the evening meal.There is a small swimming pool at the camp if you wish to relax and soak up the sun. Breakfast, lunch, dinner included.
CAMPING
Sesriem Campsite (or similar)
Namib Naukluft National Park.
Tel: ++ (264) 63 693247
Fax: ++ (264) 63 693247
E-mail: reservations@mweb.com.naMeals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
DAYS 7 & 8 - Swakopmund (360 km - 5 hours)
A delightful Bavarian-style town, situated snugly between sea and desert. Great beaches, deep-sea fishing, quad-biking, dune-boarding, flights over the desert, plus an array of shops, bars and restaurants. In Swakopmund you are free to explore at your leisure or partake in the many optional activities. This is also a chance to catch up on laundry, banks and communication. Breakfast and lunch on Day 7 and Breakfast on Day 8.LODGE ACCOMMODATION
Swakop Lodge (or similar)
Swakopmund.
Tel: ++ (264) 64 402 030
Fax: ++ (264) 64 405 016
E-mail: bookings@swakoplodge.comMeals: Day 7: Breakfast, lunch. Day 8: Breakfast
DAYS 9 & 10 - Etosha National Park (590 km - 9 hours)
Leaving Swakopmund we journey via the awesome granite moonscape scenery that Namibia is so famous for. The mountains and granite mounds provided a home to the San people for thousands of years. We will arrive at the world famous Etosha National Park where we will camp and prepare ourselves for our big game safari experience. Dominated by shimmering white saltpans you have a chance to see elephant as well as black rhino, lion and leopard. Most camps have floodlit water holes, which are excellent for after dinner game viewing, as well as swimming pools for cooling off during the heat of the day. We will enjoy 3 game drives whilst at Etosha - all taken in your WildLife Adventures vehicle. Typically we will make an early start, which is ideal for morning game viewing, and drive to some of the waterholes in the park before heading back to camp for brunch. Approximately 3-hours per game drive. In the afternoons we will take another game drive and return back to camp before dark for dinner.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner on Day 9. Brunch on Day 10.CAMPING
Okaukuejo Campsite (or similar)
Etosha National Park
Tel: ++ (264) 67 229 800
Fax: ++ (264) 67 229 852
E-mail: reservations@mweb.com.naMeals: Day 9: Breakfast, lunch, dinner. Day 10: Brunch
DAY 11 - Waterberg Plateau National Park (260 km - 6 hours)
We leave Etosha bound for the stunning Waterberg Plateau National Park. Historically significant because it was the site of the war between the Germans and the Hereros, the area has now become a haven for many endangered species. It is renowned for its incredible rock formations and walks. Your time in the Waterberg is your own and you are free to walk in the park at your leisure. Optional game drives and guided walks are available. Breakfast, lunch, dinner included.CAMPING
Bernard De La Bat (or similar)
Waterberg Plateau National Park
Tel: ++ (264) 67 305 001
Fax: ++ (264) 67 305 004
E-mail: reservations@mweb.com.naMeals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
DAY 12 - Gobabis (510 km - 8 hours)
'Desert and Sea' and 'Wild Waters Explorer' are modules of our 'Northern Quest' tour, and all clients booked on these modules will be collected or dropped off in Windhoek before proceeding to Gobabis.We travel towards the border between Namibia and Botswana and to Gobabis where we will overnight on a private game farm. This is our last night in Namibia and a fitting place for fireside tales of your journey thus far. Breakfast and lunch included.
CAMPING
Zelda's Guest Farm (or similar)
On route between Gobabis and Botswana Border post
Tel: ++ (264) 62 560 427
Fax: ++ (264) 62 560 431
E-mail: zelda.guestfarm@iafrica.com.naMeals: Breakfast, lunch
DAY 13 - Maun (516 km - 10 hours)
We wake up early for our departure to the border post of Botswana. Once all the formalities have been completed we head for Maun, which is the gateway to the fantastic Okavango Delta. We will prepare for the following days to come and be briefed by your guides on what to take into the Delta. Please remember space in the Makoros (local word for canoe - and your mode of transport into the Delta) is at a premium and a small overnight bag with your sleeping bag and necessary clothes for 2 days is all that is needed. Our campsite is just outside the centre of Maun. Although a small town, Maun has several shops, good communications and banks. Breakfast and lunch included.CAMPING
Crocodile Camp (or similar)
12 kilometres north of Maun, on the banks of the Thamalakane River
Tel: ++ (267) 680 0222
Fax: ++ (267) 680 1256
E-mail: crocamp@info.bwMeals: Breakfast, lunch
DAYS 14 & 15 - Okavango Delta
An early morning pickup awaits us where will be transferred to the Makoro poling station by vehicle. We will be assigned our Makoro - each complete with a poler /guide. After a two to three hour Makoro journey in the Delta we will stop and set up camp. The Delta is an incredible maze of inland waterways and lagoons. We will be on safari Makoro style, poled gently along, floating through this haven of wildlife and birds. You will be taken on game walks by your poler-guides to experience the full splendour of the region. Please note that there are no ablution facilities, and camps will be bush camps. Meals will be carefully planned for this duration. Breakfast, lunch, dinner included.CAMPING
Bush camp in the Okavango Delta (or similar)
No contact details available.
Leave a message at Crocodile Camp. Contact details as per Day 13Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
DAY 16 - Nata (300 km - 5 hours)
After breakfast we are gently poled back to the vehicle pick up point and transferred by vehicle back to our base camp near Maun. We collect our vehicle and depart for Nata. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.CAMPING
Nata Lodge (or similar)
Main road between Maun & Francistown, Nata
Tel: ++ (267) 621 1210
Fax: ++ (267) 621 1265
E-mail: natalodge@info.bwMeals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
DAY 17 - Chobe National Park (306 km - 5 hours)
We depart Nata and head for Kasane and our camp on the banks of the Chobe River. We will arrive in time for an included guided river cruise with game viewing. The fabulous Chobe National Park is famous for its huge herds of elephant and your guided river cruise should provide excellent sightings of elephant, hippo, crocodile, and an impressive array of birds and plains game. There is also a swimming pool at the camp for relaxing. Breakfast and lunch included.CAMPING
Toro Safari Lodge (or similar)
Lot 76 Kazungula, Kasane, Botswana
Tel: ++ (267) 625 2694
Fax: ++ (267) 625 2695
E-mail: torolodge@botsnet.bwMeals: Breakfast, lunch
DAYS 18 & 19 - Victoria Falls (90 km - 2 hours)
A short drive from Chobe takes us to the spectacular village of Victoria Falls - one of the 'Seven Natural Wonders' of the world. You are free to explore it at your leisure. Visit the captivating Victoria Falls Rainforest, take a sun downer cruise or enjoy hoards of other adventure activities (own expense). Our camp is close to all the bars, restaurants and hot spots for that last big splurge. Breakfast, lunch and Dinner on Day 18, Breakfast on Day 19.CAMPING
Victoria Falls Rest Camp (or similar)
Parkway Drive, Victoria Falls
Tel: ++ (261) 13 40 509/11
Fax: ++(263) 13 43 434
E-mail: campsite@africaonline.co.zwMeals: Day 18: Breakfast, lunch, dinner. Day 19: Breakfast
DAY 20 - Victoria Falls, Tour Ends
Our tour ends after Breakfast.Meals: Breakfast
INCLUDED IN THE TOUR PRICE:
Itinerary as specified, highlighted text is also included, fully equipped safari vehicle, services of tour leader and camp courier, all accommodation, all camping and catering equipment and scheduled National Park entrance fees. Breakfast (B) Lunch (L) Dinner (D) where specified. Meals not shown will be to the clients account. Occasionally breakfast and lunch may be combined into a brunch where necessary e.g. mornings with early game drives.EXCLUDED FROM THE TOUR PRICE:
International airfares, arrival and departure transfers, travel and medical insurance, personal spending money, visas, passports, vaccinations, personal taxes (including departure and border taxes) all optional activities, unscheduled or optional National Parks / Reserves entrance fees, gratuities, sleeping bag if required, restaurant meals and all other items of a personal nature. All drinks, even on days with full board basis.your operator can book airport transfers and additional accommodation through our central reservations office.
2008 Departure Dates
Departs Returns 2008-08-03 2008-08-22 2008-08-13 2008-09-01 2008-08-20 2008-09-08 2008-08-27 2008-09-15 2008-09-03 2008-09-22 2008-09-13 2008-10-02 2008-09-20 2008-10-09 2008-09-24 2008-10-13 2008-10-08 2008-10-27 2008-10-15 2008-11-03 2008-11-01 2008-11-20 2008-11-05 2008-11-24 2008-11-12 2008-12-01 2008-11-26 2008-12-15 2008-12-07 2008-12-26
OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
Cape Town
Group Activities:
Peninsula Tour R450 (full day) R340 (half day)
Winelands Tour R450 (full day) R340 (half day)
Cape Point & Winelands R540 (full day)
City Tour R265 (cable car extra)
Township Tour R290
Township Tour & Robben Island R560Private Activities:
Table Mountain Cable Car R60 (one way) R115 (return)
Robben Island R150
Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens Entrance fee R25
Two Oceans Aquarium R65
Castle of Good Hope R20
Lamberts Bay
Bird Island R20
Dolphin & Seal Cruises On request
Sunset Cruises On request
Open-air restaurants R150
Orange River
½ Day canoeing Trip down Orange R120
Abseiling & Zipline On request
Sossusvlei
Hot Air Balloon Flights R2500
Eco-Quad Biking R400
Desert Scenic Flights R495 (from 5 pax)
Guided Desert Walk R170
Swakopmund
Quad Biking R250 (1 hour) R400 (2 hours) R550 (3 hours)
Sand Boarding R200 (lie-down) R300 (stand-up)
Tandem Skydiving R1500
Sand Boarding & Quad Biking Combo R500
Sand Boarding, Quad Biking & Skydive Combo R1950
Horse Riding R480 (single) R350 (more than 2)
Township Tour R330
Parasailing R350
Ballooning R1450 (40 min) R1950 (1 hour)
Paragliding R600
Scenic Flights On request
Fishing R650
Dolphin Cruise R400
Catamaran Charters R370Waterberg
Game Drive R260
Maun
Flight over the Okavango Delta USD80
Chobe National Park
Game Drive BWP170Victoria Falls
White Water Rafting USD95
Bungi Jump USD85
Jet Boat USD70
Elephant Back Safari USD100
Helicopter Flights USD85All optional activity prices are printed in good faith and were correct at time of printing. Your operator cannot be held responsible for any price fluctuations.
PRE DEPARTURE PREPARATIONS
Note:
Prices for Optional Activities are approximate and are supplied and controlled by the independent activity operators. WildLife Adventures makes every effort to keep the site accurate and updated, but will not be held responsible for rate changes or inaccuracies in these prices.
Accommodation and camps used may change from that stated and WildLife Adventures reserves the right to change these as and when neccessary.PRE-DEPARTURE INFORMATION
Most clients arrive a few days prior to day 1 of the tour. This is to give them plenty of time to enjoy all that Cape Town has to offer. WildLife Adventures can organise any accommodation or activities you may require if you want to arrive early or stay on in Africa after your tour ends. Please contact us for assistance.On Day 2, clients should meet at Saasveld Lodge at 08h30 am for the pre-departure meeting. This will give you all a chance to meet your fellow travellers and get to know your guides. The meeting will cover all the aspects of the trip. Please bring with you to this meeting: your passport with relevant visa's and evidence of medical and personal insurance. Please also bring the Local Payment; this must be paid to your tour leader in USD cash prior to departure. The WildLife Adventures local payment is required to cover a wide variety of our on-tour expenses, which can include National Park entrance fees, excursions and activities, certain fresh foods, vehicle tolls and entrance fees, as well as some accommodation costs whilst travelling throughout Africa. The local payment is the final tour fare instalment which must be paid in cash to the WildLife Adventures tour leader at the pre-departure meeting.
If you have any questions regarding arrival prior to the tour or any other questions whatsoever, please contact WildLife Adventures. If you are unable to attend the pre-departure meeting, please let WildLife Adventures know at least one week prior to your arrival.
Other pre- and post-tour accommodation is also available. Please contact the WildLife Adventures office for assistance. All meals whilst in Cape Town will be to your own expense.
Meeting Point: Saasveld Lodge
Address: 73 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town
Tel: ++27 (21) 424 6169
Fax: ++27 (21) 424 5397
E-mail: saasveld@icon.co.za
Pre Dep. Meeting: 08h30 am on Day 2
Tour Start Time: Vehicle leaves Cape Town around 10h00 am on Day 2Tour End Time: Tour ends after breakfast on Day 20
Tour End Point: Victoria Falls Rest Camp
Address: Parkway Drive, Victoria Falls
Tel: ++ (263) 13 40509/11
Fax: ++ (263) 13 43434
E-mail: campsite@africaonline.co.zw
INTRODUCTION
This pre- departure information has been designed to assist you in preparing for your trip. All the information contained herein is given in good faith and has been carefully compiled. It must be accepted that details will change from time to time.
BOOKING TERMS AND CONDITIONS WITH YOUR OPERATOR
All clients are responsible for reading and understanding this pre departure information, and also reading and signing the standard booking terms and conditions. Your participation in this tour is based on these terms and conditions.
INSURANCE
COMPREHENSIVE TRAVEL INSURANCE IS COMPULSORY FOR ALL PASSENGERS! All travellers are required to take insurance to cover cancellation and curtailment, baggage loss or damage, medical expenses, emergency travel, repatriation and personal accident before leaving their country. It is the passenger's responsibility to ensure that they are fully insured.
Most travel insurance policies have a restriction on compensation for loss, damage or theft of single valuable items (e.g. cameras). Please check your policy carefully and if necessary insure valuable items separately, (e.g. under a home contents policy with a travel extension). Please take your insurance policy with you on safari. Please also note that travel insurance provided with credit card payment is usually inadequate for travel of this nature.
INDEMNITY
Passengers may be required to complete and sign an Indemnity Form prior to joining the safari.
PERSONAL SPENDING MONEY
You should budget at least 350 – 500 US$, to cover all the optional activities you might like to try, as well as your drinks and the restaurant meals, crafts and souvenirs.
There are no other hidden expenses on this tour.
VISAS AND PASSPORTS
All travellers will require a full valid passport, and it is your responsibility to ensure that you have valid visas for all countries visited on your holiday, and / or sufficient blank pages for any visas and for entry/departure stamps. Your passport must be valid for at least six months after the end of your holiday. If you have more then one passport, we recommend that you use one passport only for the entire journey, this will save problems and potential delays at border crossings. Requirements differ depending on your nationality - check with the appropriate Embassies for details.
It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of the correct visas for your holiday and onward travel. Your operator cannot accept responsibility for anyone who is refused entry to a country because they lack the correct documentation. Please check the actual Requirements with the necessary Embassy.
Please also do not assume that any inaccuracies within your documentation will be detected or can be rectified - you must ensure, that your "paper-work" is in order.
There will be times during the trip, when your passport will be collected e.g. by your tour leader, hotel reception staff, or police.
ACCOMMODATION
Whilst we have been specific about which camps, lodges or hotels we may use whilst on tour, please note that accommodation on tour could change from that stated in this dossier or in our brochures.
Your operator can book hotel accommodation before and after the tour ends on your behalf. Please contact us.
ROUTES AND ITINERARY
We make every effort to follow the intended route of the itinerary in our brochure, however changes sometimes need to be made due to unforeseen circumstances beyond our control. This may result in missed areas and activities, diversions, and variations on night stops. Occasional operational uncertainties make it impossible to run adventure trips exactly to the intended itinerary, so when booking a trip you must accept that itineraries may differ from that published.
The company will not be responsible for accommodation costs, or liable for any airfares or any other compensation to the client.
OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
All of our trips are designed so that you can choose according to your own particular budget, which excursions you wish to partake in. Any activity marked ‘optional’ will be to the client’s expense. Your guides are able to assist with information of all the options on offer. Your operator can book these excursions as an extra service to our clients.
Remember these optional extras are operated by third party local companies and not by your operator. Some activities are adventurous with accompanying risk. All activities are undertaken at your own risk.
HEALTH AND FIRST AID
Any one participating in an adventure safari must be in good health. Please see our terms and conditions for further information on this. Please note that your operator is not qualified to give you medical advice and you must contact your own doctor for information.
clients are advised to bring a simple personal first aid kit. Malaria prophylactics are essential and must be taken prior to the trip and throughout its duration.
Recommended vaccinations and other health protection vary from country to country. We recommend that you contact your doctor and gain the correct medical advice about vaccinations. We do recommend that you have Tetanus, Typhoid, Yellow Fever, Meningitis, and Hepatitis A and B.
All clients MUST have full medical and travel insurance cover before joining the tour. See booking terms and conditions for further information. Please inform your guide in confidence of any medical condition.
SECURITY
We do not advise that you bring highly valuable items with you on your trip. Use any hotel or lodge safes available. We suggest that at all other times you keep your money worn close to your body in a money belt or similar.
EXTRA EXPENSES
Sometimes political or civil unrest and other circumstances beyond the control of your operator will mean the group having to make alternative travel plans. We recommend that you bring emergency funds or have access to funds that you do not intend to use. Most insurance policies refund only after you have paid out.
LUGGAGE AND OTHER ITEMS
Space in the vehicle is limited and we request that you pay particular attention to the following guidelines.
We suggest your luggage is restricted to 15 kilos (so you can comfortably carry it).
We recommend that you utilize old or inexpensive luggage. Suitcases are NOT suitable. You may use a small/ medium sized rucksack, provided that it has no frame.
PLEASE NOTE THAT ANY EXCESS LUGGAGE OVER THE ABOVE SPECIFIED WEIGHT LIMIT WILL NOT BE LOADED INSIDE THE VEHICLE. EXCESS LUGGAGE WILL BE STORED AND ANY COSTS INCURRED WILL BE THE PASSENGERS RESPONSIBILITY.
IMPORTANT
Please take your sleeping bag and toiletries with you on board the plane (sleeping bags and toiletries are difficult to replace in Africa should they be lost on your flight over).
A CHECK LIST OF SUGGESTED ITEMS FOLLOWS BELOW:
1 sleeping bag & pillow. A warm sleeping bag is essential during the winter months (May-September). A small pillow, if required, may be packed in your sleeping bag or luggage. Some nights can be very cold.
1 day pack, to contain money, travel documents, water and camera equipment, etc. This will be allowed inside the safari vehicle.
1 waist pouch or money belt.
CLOTHING & PERSONAL EFFECTS (PLEASE TAKE THE MINIMUM)
Most people make the mistake of taking along too much clothing. Take along comfortable, casual and semi-casual, "wash & wear" clothes. Bright colors and white are not suitable for game viewing. Please also avoid clothing resembling army uniform (i.e. army jackets, caps, and trousers).
This list below is purely a guideline:
1 pair of smart/casual trousers
3 pairs of shorts
7 shirts/T-shirts (any combination)
1 light cotton dress for the ladies
2 fleece / jersey for the cool evenings
1 wind-breaker / water proof jacket
1 warm jacket
1 pair of walking/running shoes
1 pair of sandals/ reef shoes (useful for showers)
Underwear and socks
1 swimming costume
1 sun hat
1 towelIMPORTANT: Please dress appropriately when crossing borders (no bare feet, bare chests, no bikini tops, no sunglasses or hats), when visiting markets, villages, towns and when travelling in the vehicle.
1 litre waterbottle (essential)
1 torch with batteries (essential)
toilet paper
bath soap
toothbrush/toothpaste
shampoo & hair conditioner
deodorant
comb/hair brush
razor & blades (preferable battery operated shaver)
Suntan lotion/sunblock
Lipbalm
Hand cream & moisturising cream
Insect repellent
Tissues or disposable moist tissues (e.g. Wet Ones)
Washing powder
Plastic bags (to pack wet/dirty clothing)
Sunglasses
Spectacles (if worn) – some people have trouble with contact lenses & dust
Pen for immigration formalities
Note bookPERSONAL MEDICAL KIT
We suggest that you take along the following:-
Plasters/band aids
Aspirins/paracetamol
Anti-diarrhoea pills (consult your pharmacist for advice)
Throat lozenges
Antiseptic cream
Insect repellent
Anti-malaria tablets (refer to the MALARIA section)
Insect repellent (Jungle Formula)
Fungal infection powder
Rehydration powder
Eye drops
Sunscreen
Moisturiser
Any other medicines & toiletries you regularly use (e.g. tampons or condoms)BANKING AND CURRENCY
There are full banking facilities available in the major towns and cities where one is able to change money and withdraw cash from your credit card. We do advise that you do bring some cash or travellers cheques in USD in small denominations to cover travel days where there are no banking facilities and to cover optional activity charges in USD. Your tour guide will advise at the pre departure meeting. The currency in South Africa is the Rand – in Namibia the Namibian Dollar. 1 Rand equals 1 N$. In Botswana the Pula and in Victoria Falls the Zimbabwe Dollar or the Zambian kwatcha (ZMK). Exchange rates at the time of printing are approximately:
1 USD = R 11.40 = N$ 11.40
1 USD = BWP 5.70
1 USD = Z$ 55.00
1USD = ZMK 4400WEATHER
The itinerary occupies much the same climatic zone. Summer rainfall from November to March – hot and humid days, winter dry months means warm days and cold nights. The Cape Town area will experience winter rainfall where the nights are cold in winter. Summer in Cape Town is warm to hot in the day and warm at night.
BE FLEXIBLE!
Please note that the itinerary is flexible and will depend on local conditions. Travelling in Africa is sometimes unpredictable. By the very nature of travelling in remote areas there are unforeseen challenges to overcome and passengers must have a taste for adventure. Unforeseen circumstances due to problems with road conditions; weather, mechanical breakdown or accidents can delay and change the performance of the safari. Please be prepared for long drives on certain days. Please come prepared and pack a sense of humour!
Whilst we will make every effort to stick to the itinerary given please remember we are in Africa and things do not always run to plan! On rare occasions it may be necessary to make changes due to weather, health and security. These changes will be made in conjunction with the group but your Tour leaders decision will be final.
LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS
We are guests in each country we visit and it is only good manners that we comply with their customs. All participants are required to obey the law and regulation of the countries visited and any passengers contravening such laws may be required to leave the tour immediately with no right to refund of the tour fare.
VISITING OF AFRICAN VILLAGES
As a form of respect and general courtesy towards local inhabitants and village dwellers, we do not encourage the complete invasion of their privacy and homes by tourists. There are certain villages that allow tourist visits at a minimal fee. Many tourists are happy to pay for this small charge for the opportunity of seeing the way in which local inhabitants live. If in doubt ask your tourguide for advice.
CONSERVATION
Most countries are members of CITES (Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora). Please do NOT purchase products made from ivory and skins. These may be confiscated by customs. Please be aware that the purchase of large wooden carvings places a strain on forest resources, and coral and shells are destructive to the reefs.
PROBLEMS ON TOURS
Please do not hesitate to discuss (in private) with the safari guide, any problem you may be experiencing on safari, in order that the leader can attempt to rectify the matter for you.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Please bring your own film, as sources can be expensive and unreliable in Africa. Please remember that taking photos of people can sometimes cause great offence and permission should be asked beforehand. In addition to this some African governments do not allow photos to be taken at any government, police or army post, borders, bridges or military roadblocks. If in doubt ask your guide.
A TYPICAL DAY
Generally clients will wake at 7:00 am on a travelling day and depart at approx.. 8:00 am after breakfast. Some days where the travelling distance is greater, an earlier rise is to be expected. Lunch is supplied at a stopover decided by your guides and we generally get to camp in the late afternoon. Here we will set up camp and prepare dinner, which will be served at about 7:00 pm. Free days are at your leisure.
SPECIAL Requirements
Any client with any special Requirements, dietary or otherwise, should notify our Head Office in writing at least one week prior to departure. We will do our very best to accommodate you.
LIMITED PARTICIPATION SAFARIS
This trip calls for your limited participation in the camp and cooking duties. You will be required to put up and take down your own tent. However, your guides will supply all meals and camp duties on behalf of the group. If anyone is wishing to help at anytime, the guides are always happy for assistance!
ADVENTURE SAFARIS
These trips are for people who love life and want to embrace it with passion, who care about culture, people and wildlife. As this tour is a limited participation trip, it is very important that travellers have a positive attitude. Joining in is what turns a great trip into an unforgettable journey. With the right attitude we can guarantee that travellers will get the most out of their African experience.
ADVENTURE VEHICLES
The majority of our Adventure vehicles are custom built to suit the African terrain. Mainly Mercedes Benz 1617 vehicles, with large glass windows for game and scenery viewing, and when open give the feeling of being in an open vehicle. The interior is spacious with forward facing coach style seating. There is ample space inside the vehicle to store your daypack. The large enclosed storage area of the vehicle holds the camping gear and luggage, with separate sections for the food. The vehicle has a large water tank and a fully equipped field kitchen, with fold down tables and overhead tarpaulins in case of bad weather. There are two safes on board, one for passengers and one for vehicles documents. Long-range fuel and water tanks keep us self-sufficient.
CAMPS AND EQUIPMENT
For the most part we will be using formal campsites along the way with running water and basic facilities. In addition, you will have one two nights bush camping where there are no facilities at all. We provide large dome tents, which are shared by two people and have built-in ground sheets and mosquito nets. Mattresses, camp chairs, tables and cooler boxes are also provided.
Hotels, lodges or chalets where used will be simple, clean basic travellers accommodation. In some cases ablution facilities may be on a sharing basis.
ROOMING ARRANGEMENTS
Do not be concerned about coming alone, many of our clients will. Accommodation is arranged on a twin share basis and your tour guide will allocate you a room/ tent with another group member of the same sex. If you do not wish to share a Single occupancy supplement is available on most tours. Please ask for information when booking.
FOOD
The vehicle will be well stocked with staple foods at the beginning of the trip. We try to maintain as much variety throughout the expedition as possible, restocking from stores and markets along the way. Fruit and vegetables are fairly easy to obtain, although some may be more abundant than others. Whilst making no special provisions for vegetarians, we have found in the past that there is ample choice available. We cook on gas stoves as well as open fires, and you will be amazed what your guides can prepare on an open fire! All the catering equipment, crockery and cutlery is provided
ECOTOURISM
The ultimate objective of eco-tourism is for clients to have a pleasant and enriching experience of nature, and at the same time, cause the least possible disturbance to ecosystems. Your guides have strict environmental policies, which we endeavour to instil in all of our passengers; such as – Respect for people, fellow travellers and places we visit. A respectful approach to fauna and flora, effective waste management, and considerate behaviour in game reserves.
FACILITIES
Facilities in the remote areas that you will be visiting are somewhat primitive and at times non-existent. PLEASE COME PREPARED! At times we will stay in camps with facilities (e.g. hot and cold running water, showers, toilets, etc.). Participants are usually very quick to adapt themselves to the conditions of the safari. It's all part of the adventure!
MAPS & FIELD GUIDES
We recommend the following:-
Michelin Map No 995 – Africa Central & South Madagascar
Robert's Birds of Southern Africa – Kenneth Newman
Field Guide to Mammals of Southern Africa – Chris & Tilde Stuart
Southern Africa Mammals – Robin Frandsen.COMBINATIONS AND CONNECTING TOURS
If you are looking for an extended visit to Africa or would like to try more then one adventure, you can. Our trips are scheduled so that you can connect with other departing adventures.
We can also tailor make any other combination for you any where in Africa. Please contact us for full details.
A Brief History:
SOUTH AFRICA - CAPE TOWN
Table Mountain
The exhilarating ascent of Cape Town's Table Mountain is a must, and breathtaking views over the city and its beaches. The panorama stretches from Table Bay to False Bay and around the mountain to the Hout Bay Valley and Kommetjie. On a clear day one has a magnificent view across the Cape Flats to the Hottentots Holland Mountains.
The mountain is sculpted from sandstone and it rises to 1086 metres above the bay. Its flat summit measures nearly 3 km from end to end. The mountain is home to approximately 1470 species of plants. Many of these are endemic, i.e. appearing nowhere else on earth. Included is the rare Silver Tree and the wild orchid Disa Uniflora.
The Cableway was opened in 1929 and today conveys some 600,000 people to the summit annually. It provides safe access and the trip takes about six minutes.
On the summit there is a restaurant and a souvenir shop, from which letters bearing the Table Mountain postmark can be sent. Short walks may be taken from the cable-station, and the flora that may be seen in the different seasons, makes it an essential trip for nature lovers.
It is not advisable to climb the mountain without someone experienced who knows the route well. There are some 350 recognized paths to the summit, some undemanding and some extremely difficult. It is recommended that you contact Mountain Club of South Africa (021 - 4653412) before embarking on a hike or climb.
Kloof Nek is linked to the 669 metre Lion's Head which in turn is connected by a lion's body to a rump known as Signal Hill. Along the road are superb views over the city and Atlantic Seaboard. The spiral pathway up Lion's Head passes through silver trees and spring flowers and provides a breathtaking panoramic view. Signal Hill was once used as a semaphore post for communication with ships at sea, and it is from here that the noon gun is fired each day. The scene from here at night, of the city lights with the backdrop of a floodlit Table Mountain, is an extremely romantic sight.
Victoria and Alfred Waterfront
Cape Town's Victoria and Alfred Waterfront development has grabbed the imagination of Capetonian and visitor alike. With majestic Table Mountain as a backdrop and the unique interest of the 'working harbour', it is not surprising that the 'Waterfront' has become Cape Town's most popular attraction. Its success has largely been built upon local support and attracts over a million visitors a month, of which 70% are Capetonians.
For over a century The Dutch East India Company contributed to the development of the Cape of Good Hope. The arrival of their merchant ships, laden with spices and treasures from markets explored, caused great excitement in the community.
Times have changed, yet the same spirit lives on at the Waterfront Craft Market, where craftsmanship and artistry of an ageless quality are captured in a market for the explorer at heart.Shops cover gemstones, curios and fancy fashions to the silliest souvenirs. It is also well stocked with restaurants, taverns, cinemas, theatres and a variety of entertainment including boat trips and charters. Try the historical walks.
It is advisable to first visit the V&A Waterfront Information Centre. They are there to help you with friendly advice, directions and up-to-the minute information on activities and events. They will even arrange bookings for tours and taxis.
The Imax cinema is situated at the Portswood Road entrance to the Waterfront. The main feature of Imax is the super-realistic image on a screen five stories high. The Two Ocean Aquarium offers an exciting insight into the indigenous fresh and seawater creatures of South Africa.Shopping in the Victoria Wharf Shopping Centre is exciting and varied and a new extension has virtually doubled its size. It offers late night trading and has undercover parking for your convenience. King's Warehouse has a variety of fresh farm produce, fine food and take-aways. Shops around Market Square, the Pierhead and in the Alfred Mall have much to offer.
The South African Maritime Museum has the largest collection of model ships and some fascinating artefacts. There is also a floating exhibit, the S.A.S. Somerset.
Other items of historical interest are the Time Ball Tower, (which was once used by ships in the bay to set the time) and the Old Clock Tower, built in 1887. The topmost floor housed the clock mechanism, while the bottom floor housed the elaborate tide-gauge operated by a float on the water below.
Cape Fur Seals can be viewed by taking the century old Penny Ferry across 'The Cut'.
NAMIBIA
Namibia is known for its contrasting landscapes. There is the brooding desolate Namib Desert, said to be the oldest in the world, with its high dunes and awe inspiring sense of space. The central plateau, with its thorn bush savanna and rugged mountains, rising abruptly from the plains, gives way to the majestic Fish River Canyon in the South. In the North of the country, landscapes range from dense bush and open plains of the great Etosha pan, to woodland savanna and lush riverine vegetation. Dinosaur footprints preserved in the sandstone, pre-historic rock art, and the ancient fossil plant, Welwitschia mirabilis, bear witness to the eons past in this - "the ageless land".
All these facts combine in a country, which can justifiably be known as "Africa’s Gem",
Namibia is the first country in the world to include protection of the environment and sustainable utilization of wildlife in its constitution. About 15,5% of the country has been set aside as National Parks. In these areas, rare and endangered species of animals, birds and plant life are preserved and protected. They serve as a living reminder to us all, and to the generations of the future, of how it once was in Africa.
Most of the African game species are well represented in Namibia, with the largest concentration in the Etosha National Park, which is firmly entrenched on the world map of international parks.WATERBERG PLATEAU PARK
Rising some 200m above the surrounding sea of African bush and savannah the Waterberg Plateau Park with it flamboyant brick red sandstone formations and lush green vegetation presents an island of vibrant colour.
It was originally created as a sanctuary for rare and endangered species found in the Caprivi, such as roan and sable antelope tsessebe and Cape buffalo.
Today the park is home to 25 game and over 200 bird species. The vegetation changes dramatically from acacia savannah to lush green subtropical woodland.
The Waterberg cliffs accommodate the only breeding colony of Cape vultures in the country. Dinosaur tracks can also be seen at the top of the plateau.
ETOSHA
The Etosha National Park is one of the major sanctuaries for wildlife in Africa and was proclaimed a game reserve by German Governor von Lindequist in 1907. The heart of the park is the Etosha Pan, meaning "place of dry water", an extensive, flat depression of about 5000 sq. km. This great, white expanse is a place of shimmering mirages, and seeing large herds of game in this setting makes Etosha a unique experience in Africa.
Expert game management and the protection of the un spoilt environment, makes the Etosha National Park one of the greatest and most important game parks on the sub-continent. Due to the carefully controlled size of the rest camps, visitors experience the feeling of being truly in the wilds.
There are 144 mammal species in the park, which covers an area of 22 270 sq. km. This includes elephant, giraffe, blue wildebeest and black rhino. Among the predators are lion, cheetah, leopard and several species of wildcat. Hyena and jackal are the scavengers. There are various species of antelope ranging from the majestic eland to the smallest antelope, the shy Damara dik-dik. The most striking of the antelope species is the gemsbok, with its dramatic black and white markings, which also appears on the Namibian coat of arms. Bird life is prolific and some 340 species have been identified, including Namibia's national bird, the vividly coloured crimson-breasted shrike. The black rhino population of 300 is one of the few growing populations in the world, thanks to the translocation of rhino from Kaokoland in the 1970’s. Etosha’s Elephant are reputed to be the largest in Africa, the tallest standing at 4 m at the shoulder. Their tusks however are relatively small due to genetic defects and deficiencies of minerals in their diets.
SWAKOPMUND
Namibia's seaside resort on the west coast is a place of singular charm, and resembles a small Bavarian village nestling between the desert and the sea. It has a restful and relaxing atmosphere with promenades, palm trees and beautifully tended public gardens. The particular attraction of the town lies in the fact that one can enjoy the wild beauty of the desert and the sea and yet be within easy reach of the solid comfort of Swakopmund's hotels, pensions and restaurants.
The source of Swakopmund’s continental atmosphere is the graceful art nouveau buildings. Eleven of these charming old buildings are national monuments.
There is plenty to see and do. Tour operators offer tours featuring the unique landscapes of the Namib. There is sheltered bathing at Palm Beach, the town has an Olympic-sized, heated indoor swimming pool, and a grassed golf course in a desert setting. The tannery, which manufacturers the well-known kudu leather shoes, can be visited, as well as the local brewery, which produces some of Namibia's fine beers. The Swakopmund Museum captures the colourful past and also highlights the desert flora and fauna, as well as the marine life, of the area.
There is excellent rock and surf fishing along the stretch of beach, which extends northwards. This area, a 200 km by 25 km strip along the beach from Swakopmund to Ugab River is known as the National West Coast Tourist Recreation Area. Henties Bay, a resort village named after Major Hentie van der Merwe who started recreational fishing there in 1929, still attracts keen fishermen from far and wide.
TWYFELFONTEIN
Twyfelfontein - south of Khorixas - has one of the most extensive accumulations of pre-historic rock paintings and engravings in Namibia. Predominantly portrayed are lions, giraffes and elephants. Furthermore, there are numerous abstract objects, about which no definite knowledge is available.
Although the exact age of the drawings is unknown, it is estimated that they are between a few hundred and several thousand years old. Experts believe that the drawings were done by hunting Bushman, who were in wait for wild animals at the waterholes and perhaps attempted to secure their good luck by engraving the rocks. In the year 1918 about 100 kilometres further south in the Tsisab gorge at the Brandberg the most famous rock paintings were discovered. A well-known French historian named the painting 'the white lady'. He thought the figure resembled a lady of Greek or Egyptian origin. However, nowadays scientists agree that the painting portrays a young man. The lower part of his body is painted in white, a magical hunting spell, as was customary to the Himbas and the Hereros.
NAMIB-NAUKLUFT NATIONAL PARK
The Namib-Naukluft National Park, covering over 49 768 km is not only the largest nature conservation area in Namibia, but it is rated as the fourth largest in the world, as well as being the most unusual. Landscapes range from an impressive mountain massif to desert plains and high dunes, from deep gorges to an estuarine lagoon.
For the connoisseur of scenery, atmosphere and the unusual, there is nothing quite like the Namib. It has an essence of timelessness, and, depending on the time of day there is a shift of moods, a play of light and shadow, giving desert landscapes entirely new tints and textures. The nature ranges from vast plains where herds of oryx, springbok and zebra roam, to the eerie landscape of the badlands, known as the "valley of the moon" in the Swakop River valley. Also in the valley is the small oasis of Goanikontes, its vivid green vegetation in startling contrast to the harsh desert landscape.
Examples of that hardy survivor of the desert, the Welwitschia mirabilis, can be seen along this route. One very large specimen, which is specially protected is estimated to be 1 500 years old.SESRIEM
West of the Naukluft Mountains, the Tsauchab River disappears dramatically down a steep gorge in the plain. Approx. 1 km long and 30-40 m deep, its pools of water on its gravel bed in an otherwise arid region, attracts many birds and animals. Sesriem derives its name from early pioneers who tied lengths of rawhide thongs together to draw water from these pools.
SOSSUSVLEI
This is a dune wonderland, with towering dunes up to 325 m high surrounding a huge, dried up pan. Dunes extend as far as the eye can see and their rich tints vary from pale apricot to vivid reds and oranges. During a good rainy season the Tsauchab River flows into the pan, which creates a haven for water birds. Even during the dry season, oryx, springbok and ostriches can be seen feeding off the sparse vegetation along the watercourses.
The Sossusvlei, Namibia's highlight in the heart of the Namib Desert, is an enormous clay-pan, enclosed by mighty sand dunes. Some of the spectacular hills of sand reach a height of 300 metres, and therefore, belong to the highest in the world. Only after a heavy rainfall, which is very seldom in this area, does the vlei fill with water. However, as the clay layers are hardly impervious to water, a turquoise lake remains for quite some time.
The dunes of the Namib Desert developed over a period of many millions of years. It is thought that the vast quantities of sand were carried into the Atlantic Ocean by the Orange River. This material was subsequently moved northwards by the Benguela current. The surf pushed the sand back onto land and coastal dunes developed as a result, which were shifted inland more and more by the wind. Wind continuously restacks the sand of the huge shifting dunes of the Namib Desert. It tirelessly forces the grains of sand on the flat windward slope upwards to the crest of the dune. Here they fall down in the wind shade. The leeward slope, therefore, is always considerably steeper than the windward side.
FISH RIVER CANYON
One of the natural wonders of Africa is the Fish River Canyon. The 161 km long, 27 km wide ravine with a maximum depth of 550 m is surrounded by high, forbidding cliffs, and is gashed into the plateau with startling abruptness. The awesome grandeur of the canyon is surpassed only by the Grand Canyon in the United States of America. A road running for 25 km along the eastern edge of the canyon leads to a series of viewing sites with splendid views of this grand, sombre and immensely powerful natural phenomenon.
WINDHOEK
Situated in Namibia's central highlands, Windhoek, the capital, is an attractive city surrounded by clusters of hills and the impressive Auas and Eros mountains. The height above sea level of 1650m is only slightly less than that of Johannesburg, South Africa, or Denver, the 'mile-high' city in the United States. The climate is typical of a semi-desert country, with hot days and cool nights.
Tree-lined Independence Avenue with its fountains and walkways provides a pleasant ambience of tranquillity and leisure to the heart of the city, with its continental style sidewalk cafes and beer gardens. Zoo park in mid-city, adds to the relaxed atmosphere with its lawns, spreading trees, shrubs and flowers.
The city is considerably enhanced by stately historic buildings in the German architectural style of the turn of the last century. Imposing modern buildings in the central business district echo the historical forms, shapes and colours of this architectural heritage. Old buildings which lend a singular charm to the city include the historic seat of government which is known as the Tintenpalast, meaning Palace of Ink, and the Christuskirche with its graceful spire which provides the city with a striking landmark. The white-walled Alte Feste, which was once a fort and now a museum, reflects the history of the country. Three German style castles designed by architect Willi Sander in the early 1900's add a romantic touch to the city.
Street vendors spread their wares on the pavements, reflecting Namibia's cultural heritage, in the form of woodcarvings, basketry and pottery.
Windhoek offers every modern amenity, including comfortable hotels and pensions, as well as restaurants offering Namibian style cuisine, which has developed its own particular flavour. Local venison like gemsbok, kudu and springbok is featured on the restaurant menus. Venison is also delicious when smoked or served as paté. Ostrich steaks, fillets and biltong (strips of dried meat) are also available. There is never a shortage of tasty meat dishes, as Namibia is a major producer of top-grade beef and mutton. Seafood specialties from the West Coast include succulent rock lobster, oysters, and fish such as kingklip, sole and steenbras.
Like other spheres of life in Namibia, the German influence is also apparent in local foods, offering a wide selection of traditional sausages and polonies, various types of bread, and superb confectionery. Local beer is light and refreshing and brewed according to the traditional Reinheitsgebot (purity laws), using only natural ingredients.
Specialized shopping in the city includes distinctive jewellers ranging from classic to contemporary designs using local or imported gemstones, or designed for individual tastes by local goldsmiths. A special feature is individually designed hand-woven carpets and wall hangings made from karakul wool. A number of curio shops offer a wide range of African arts and crafts and there is a fine choice of Namibian semi-precious stones.BOTSWANA
The Tswana migrated to the region that is now Botswana by 1800 and displaced the native San. Missionaries, including David Livingstone and Robert Moffat from Scotland, arrived in the first half of the 19th century and established missions. The territory was taken under British protection in 1885, after all the principal chiefs complained that Boers or Afrikaners, from the Transvaal region in what is now northern South Africa, were invading their territories.
During World War I (1914-1918) and World War II (1939-1945) contingents from Bechuanaland, as Botswana was then called, served overseas and on their return helped stimulate economic and political change. The first elections to a legislative council were held in 1961. Under the name Botswana, the country achieved independence in 1966, with the former prime minister, Sir Seretse Khama as the first president. When Khama died in 1980, he was succeeded by Quett Ketumile Joni Masire who was re elected by the legislature in 1984, 1989, and 1994. Masire retired from politics in 1998 and was succeeded by his vice president, Festus Mogae. Following October 1999 legislative elections, the legislature elected Mogae as president.
Since independence, Botswana has taken a non-aligned stance in foreign affairs. While it opposed the former racial policies of neighbouring South Africa, Botswana has, out of economic necessity, maintained close ties with that country.Most of Botswana is a tableland with an average elevation of about 1,000 m (about 3,300 ft). The Kalahari Desert covers the central and south western portions of the country. The principal stream is the Okavango River, which flows southeast from the Angola highlands into north-western Botswana and drains into the Okavango Delta (Okavango Swamp), where it forms a vast marshland. During the rainy season the flow continues east on the Boteti River to Lake Xau and the Makgadikgadi Pan. The southern part of the country has no permanent streams. In general, Botswana has a semi-arid subtropical climate. The average annual rainfall varies from about 640 mm (about 25 in) in the north to less than 230 mm (less than 9 in) in the Kalahari. Rainfall is concentrated in the summer months (December to April). Precipitation, however, is undependable, and the country is subject to drought.
Savanna vegetation predominates in most parts of Botswana, and consists of grasslands interspersed with trees. Principal species include acacia, bloodwood, and Zambezi teak. Wildlife is abundant in Botswana and includes lions, giraffes, leopards, antelope, elephants, crocodiles, and ostriches. Mineral resources include diamonds, copper, nickel, coal, cobalt, manganese, soda ash, asbestos, and salt.
OKAVANGO DELTA
A Large swampy inland delta in northern Botswana near Maun. Most of the Okavango River, which originates in the highlands of east-central Angola, terminates here. The delta has been formed over 2 million years from silt deposits left as the river enters the flat, arid terrain of northern Botswana. The Okavango Delta consists of a maze of meandering channels, often choked with dense masses of papyrus and other aquatic plants; many shallow, water-filled basins; and numerous islands, or elevated wooded areas that remain dry during flooding. The delta covers about 16,000 sq. km (about 6200 sq. mi), although up to approximately 22,000 sq. km (approximately 8500 sq. mi) may be flooded in high-rainfall years. Water levels and flooding reach a maximum between March and July, after rains near the Okavango's source increase the river's volume. About 3 percent of the water in the delta is carried away via the Boteti River and two other channels; this outflow preserves the delta's freshwater ecosystem by flushing out salts and other minerals that would otherwise collect in the delta. Average temperatures range from about 14° C (57° F) in January to 24° C (6° F) in July. Rainfall averages 525 mm (21 in) annually, but varies greatly from year to year.
Part of the eastern delta is included in the Moremi Game Reserve, which was founded by the local Batawana people in 1965. Hippopotamuses, crocodiles, buffalo, and two kinds of antelope - Lechwe and impalas, are common in the delta. Large numbers of other plant-eating animals also migrate there seasonally. Rhinoceroses and elephants were also fairly common at one time, but hunting has eliminated the rhinoceros and reduced the elephant population. There are more than 500 species of birds, including the African fish eagle, and ibis. Tiger fish, sharp-toothed catfish, barbel, and bream are among the many species of fish. Rapidly growing cattle populations to the south and west of the delta have damaged the wildlife habitat by overgrazing and overburdening the water supply. Two barrier fences on the southern and western edges of the delta were built to protect the livestock from diseases carried by animals in the north. These fences have disrupted seasonal migrations of wildlife and have caused the deaths of large numbers of migrating animals that could not negotiate the barrier in their path. Since the 1900s there have been several proposals to use water from the delta for irrigated agriculture, cattle ranching, and industries such as diamond mining. Most of the proposed projects, however, have required more financing than was available. Since the economy of Botswana is focused more on raising livestock than on growing crops, there has also been insufficient interest to proceed with extensive irrigation plans. Moreover, ecologists fear that the development of such plans could permanently damage the delta's delicate ecosystem.
CHOBE NATIONAL PARK
Situated in the northernmost corner of Botswana, the Chobe region fills the squat triangle made by the meeting of the Namibian, Zambian and Zimbabwean borders with those of Botswana.
The Chobe National Park is at the heart of the complex. A vast reserve of about 12 000 square kilometers, it is for the most part flat and sparsely wooded, but certainly not devoid of interest.
Chobe is said to contain the highest concentration of elephants in the world, with an estimated winter population of around 25 000. That's more than two per square kilometer. A tourist's delight, this has placed massive pressure on the natural resources of the area, and elephant damage is particularly noticeable in the narrow band of riverine forest along the grass-covered flood plains of the Chobe River.
There are a number of natural pans in the park, but they are dry for most of the year, and the only surface water during the dry season is provided by the Chobe and Linyanti Rivers in the north and northwest, and by pumped waterholes at Savuti, Nogatsaa and Tshinga and Ngwezuma dam. There are a few other pans that hold water for part of the dry season, particularly in the northeast.
Large areas of the park are covered by mopane and mixed woodland, including kiaat and Zambezi teak. There are belts of acacia savannah, particularly in the south. The woodlands are interspersed with extensive areas of grassland. The wildlife viewing is renowned, and makes this area a prime tourist destination. The annual zebra migration is a special feature of the area, but the visitor may see a wide range of antelope including sable, roan, oribi, reedbuck, and the strikingly colourful Chobe bushbuck, which has much stronger white markings than those found further south. Small herds of lechwe can be found on the grassy floodplains, and this is the only area south of the Zambezi River where puku can be seen. Giraffe and warthog are common, and lion occur throughout the area but are most frequently seen around Savuti.
Bird watching is very rewarding, there being over 350 species recorded in the area, and in the vicinity of the Chobe and Linyanti Rivers visitors can watch saddle-billed storks, long-toed plovers, pink-backed pelicans, African skimmers, Bradfield's hornbills and the jewel-like carmine bee-eaters. Heuglin's robin is a delight to hear in the early morning.
VICTORIA FALLS
The Victoria Falls National Park was included on the World Heritage list in 1989.
The park comprises the left bank of the Zambezi River above Victoria Falls, the eastern half of the falls themselves, and a series of deep gorges below the falls. The falls are the most significant feature of the park, and when the Zambezi is in full flood (usually February or March) they form the largest curtain of falling water in the world. During these months, over 500 million litres or water per minute go over the falls, which are 1708m wide, and drop 99m at Rainbow Falls in Zambia. At low water in November flow can be reduced to around 10 million litres/minute, and the river is divided into a series of braided channels that descend in many separate falls.
Below the falls the river enters a narrow series of gorges, which represent locations successively occupied by the falls earlier in their history. Since the uplifting of the Makgadikgadi Pan area some two million years ago, the Zambezi River has been cutting through the basalt base rock, exploiting weak fissures, and forming a series of retreating gorges. Seven previous waterfalls occupied the seven gorges below the present falls, and Devil's Cataract in Zimbabwe is where the next cut back will form a new waterfall that will eventually leave the present falls lip high above the river in the gorge below.
VEGETATION
The predominant vegetation is mopane forest with small areas of teak and miombo woodland, and a narrow band of riverine forest along the Zambezi. The riverine 'rainforest' within the waterfall splash zone is of particular interest, a fragile ecosystem of discontinuous forest on sandy alluvium, dependent upon maintenance of abundant water and high humidity resulting from the spray plume. Tree species within this forest include Acacia, ebony, ivory palm, African olive, date palm, waterbroom and Cape and strangler figs.
FAUNA
Several herds of elephant occur in Zambezi National Park, occasionally crossing to the islands and Zambian mainland during the dry season when water levels are low. There are small herds of buffalo and wildebeest, as well as zebra, warthog, giraffe and bush pig and schools of hippopotamus are frequent above the falls. Klipspringer can be seen in the gorges below the falls. Vervet monkey and chacma baboon are common. Lion and leopard are occasionally seen. Taita falcon (scarce but widespread in eastern and central Africa) breeds in the gorges, as do black stork, black eagle, peregrine falcon and augur buzzard. Victoria Falls forms a geographical barrier between the distinct fish faunas of the upper and middle Zambezi River. Thirty-nine species of fish have been recorded from the waters below the falls, including butter barbel, eastern bottlenose, chessa and nkupe, and eighty-four from the waters above the falls, including African mottled eel, tigerfish, Kafue pike and silver barbel.
CULTURAL HERITAGE
Stone artefacts of Homo habilis from 3 million years ago have been found near the falls, as have stone tools indicating prolonged occupation of the area in the Middle Stone Age (50,000 years ago). Weapons, adornments and digging tools indicate the presence of hunter-gathering communities in the Late Stone Age (from 10,000 to 2,000 years ago), displaced about 2,000 years ago by farmers using iron tools, who kept livestock and lived in villages.
Today Victoria Falls is a lively town with numerous bars, restaurants, excellent shopping in both shops and markets and of course many adventure activities to keep everyone happy.
There is an airport at Victoria Falls and also just across the border in Livingstone, Zambia. Viewing the Victoria water falls and most activities, can be done from either the Zimbabwe side or the Zambian side.
