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Kalahari Jewels:
A Botswana Adventure (July 2025)
"Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better."
- Albert Einstein
The Kalahari is a vast unforgiving wilderness. However, life cuts through the ancient, wooded dunes and barren landscape – sometimes escaping, but sometimes being swallowed up the thirsty sands. From space a jewel-like shimmer alludes to the oases that are the river systems of northern Botswana: rivers that nurture Nature in all its forms and glory.
The Kalahari Jewels expedition sets out to discover Nature along the shores, in the swamps and on the palm-studded islands of the Chobe, Linyanti and Okavango rivers. This is Grant Nel’s home and with Last Chance Safaris’ small private group safaris, his expert guidance will bring you into the world of Botswana’s famous wildlife.
The safari begins on the banks of the Chobe. An enigmatic river that is host to some of the best elephant viewing on the continent.
Centuries-old footpaths have led herd after herd, year after year, to the thirst slaking waters and fertile floodplains of the Chobe.
Sit quietly as matriarchs and babies pass by – intent on their water sports and mud spas and not caring who is watching.
Enroute to the next jewel, a light aircraft flight will give you a bird’s-eye-view, and some indication of just how vast the wilderness of northern Botswana is.
Linyanti is the next stop – unspoiled and untamed, this private reserve delivers an exclusive wildlife experience seemingly just for you!
Prey and predator have danced to the tune of survival along the Linyanti swamps since time immemorial and it has become one of the best places in Africa to witness that performance.
The world-renowned Okavango Delta beckons. You will explore both the northern and southern reaches of this watery world with day and night drives, but also sometimes on foot, and sometimes by wooden ‘mokoro’ canoes.
The Okavango’s reputation as a wildlife stronghold is well earned so you can expect to be spellbound by both the animal encounters and exceptional beauty of the Kalahari’s crown jewel.
Northern Botswana, a region marked by its remote wilderness and rich biodiversity, is a premier destination for those seeking an authentic safari experience. This area encompasses several key destinations, including the Chobe National Park, the Okavango Delta, and the Linyanti and Savuti reserves, each offering unique landscapes and wildlife opportunities.
Chobe National Park is renowned for its large elephant population, estimated to be one of the highest in Africa. The park covers roughly 11,700 square kilometers and includes floodplains, swamps, and woodland areas. This diversity supports an extensive range of fauna beyond elephants, such as lions, antelopes, and hippos, with the Chobe River acting as a focal point for wildlife activity.
The Okavango Delta, often referred to as a natural wonder, is the world's largest inland delta. The region is characterized by its intricate water channels, lagoons, and islands, which transform the landscape into a lush animal habitat during seasonal floods. This delta is not only a sanctuary for traditional safari species but also for rare birds and aquatic life. The use of mokoros (traditional dugout canoes) offers an intimate way to explore these waterways, providing close encounters with nature's tranquility and its inhabitants.
Linyanti Game Reserve lies to the north of the Okavango, along the Linyanti River. Known for its rugged and untouched beauty, the reserve is particularly famous during the dry season when large herds of elephants are drawn to the river. Predators such as lions, leopards, and endangered African wild dogs are also prevalent in this area, making it a superb location for viewing some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife
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The Kalahari Jewels Expedition
The Kalahari Jewels expedition offers a comprehensive exploration of these Northern Botswana highlights, structured around small, private group experiences that enhance the sense of exclusivity and personal engagement with the wilderness.
Comfort and Luxury in the Wilderness Participants can expect accommodations that blend luxury with environmental consciousness, situated to optimize both animal sightings and scenic views. The safari camps and lodges, such as Lebala Camp in the Kwando Private Reserve and Mma Dinare Camp overlooking the Okavango, are designed to offer comfort in the heart of the wilderness. These locations provide an ideal balance of adventure and relaxation, with amenities that cater to comfort while maintaining a close connection to the natural surroundings.
Experiences and Activities The itinerary includes a variety of activities designed to cater to different interests and provide comprehensive insights into the ecological and cultural richness of the region. Activities range from game drives across diverse landscapes, night drives that reveal the nocturnal side of the bush, to river safaris and walking tours. Each activity is guided by experienced professionals who offer in-depth knowledge of the wildlife and ecosystems.
Conservation and Community is a significant aspect of the expedition is its emphasis on conservation and sustainable tourism practices. The journey not only highlights the natural beauty and biodiversity of Botswana but also underscores the importance of preserving these landscapes for future generations. Engagements with local communities and conservation projects are integral, providing guests with a deeper understanding of the region’s environmental challenges and the efforts being made to address them.
The Kalahari Jewels expedition is more than just a luxury safari; it is an immersive experience into one of the most captivating regions of Africa. It promises not only the thrill of wildlife encounters but also a profound connection with the natural world, all while ensuring comfort and luxury in some of Botswana’s most beautiful and remote settings. This expedition epitomizes the spirit of adventure and conservation, inviting guests to explore, learn, and contribute to the preservation of Northern Botswana's irreplaceable wilderness.