Animals

Straddling the game rich area between Chobe and Zimbabwe's Matetsi reserve lies the Kasane Forest Reserve. It is here in the Lesoma Valley that one will find Elephant Valley Lodge, uniquely positioned thus offering spectacular game viewing long after guests have left the national park. The lodge has a very active waterhole frequented by numerous species, including elephant, buffalo, lion and leopard. These sightings present superb photographic opportunities from the comfort and safety of the viewing hide or the lodge's main deck areas. Sturdy acacias reach high above the camp, forming large canopies of shade, under which you will find twenty 'meru' styled luxury safari tents. Each of the spacious tents features twin beds, mini-safe and en-suite facilities. The Chobe National Park in Botswana is home to the largest elephant population in the world. This magnificent reserve draws life from the Chobe River and is surrounded by protected wildlife sanctuaries. As the region is barrier free, this allows for large numbers of big game to move freely through these protected reserves.

In order to give you increased flexibility for your holiday please call our US office for advice on who to book your flights with (or why not use those frequent flier miles?); or contact our UK office who can arrange and book flights for you. We have price and departure information about the following destinations (river prices only - flights not included).

Botswana Luxury Safari

Daily from August - January

2.5 days

GBP £ 525

Euro € 620

USD $ 860

We find most of our clients have in their posession already what is needed for a river journey. We have broken down here the items into what you'll need on the river and in camp. An equipment list of what you will require for your adventure will be sent to you prior to your departure.

River Fashion:

• A pair of Chacos or similar sandals. Trainers are also okay.
• A pair of River shorts or swimming costume.
• Long sleeved business shirt to wear under your life jacket in hot destinations.
• A baseball cap for under the helmet to keep sun off.
• Wide brimmed sunhat.
• Sunglasses.
• Chums for fastening your sunglasses to your head.
• Nalgene or similar water bottle.
• Carabiner for fastening water bottle to your boat.
• Thermal Top for cooler destinations. Medium weight - Heavyweight Capilene or polypropylene is the best.
• Waterproof sunscreen and lip balm SPF15 minimum.

For evenings and around camp

• Lightweight long trousers.
• Lightweight Long Sleeved shirt.
• Fleece jacket.
• Ladies should bring a long skirt or sarong to cover your legs whilst in the company of locals.
• Underwear.
• Glasses or Contact lenses. Disposable lenses are ideal.
• Toiletries. Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap and shampoo.
• Forget the cosmetics and hair dryer! But we do suggest moisturizer.
• Hand wipes
• A 3-season sleeping bag.
• Travel Pillow.
• Small pack towel.
• Headlamp or head torch and spare batteries.
• Shoes or boots for wearing around camp and on hikes.
• Insect Repellent.
• Any medication you may be taking.

Optional Items

• Your favourite book or a journal for recording your river memories.
• Sketchpad.
• Photographic or video equipment. On most expeditions we provide a waterproof pelicase for these items. We recommend a cleaning kit as sand gets everywhere. Bring a spare memory card or plenty of film. Also bring spare batteries for your camera.
• Waterproof disposable for the "action" on the raft shots.
• Swiss Army Knife or Leatherman.
• An extra bag to bring back a wooden hippo, a carpet, Thanka or anything else you may purchase on your holiday.
• An iPod or other music preferences. We have speakers.

Personal Spending

• The only money that you need to bring is for meals in town, souvenirs, DVD, personal items and the beer kitty for the raft trip if you drink. Please remember that many of the countries we visit do offer Credit Card and ATM facilities and for a small charge you can withdraw cash either from your account or Credit Card for convenience.
• If you wish to pass on a gratuity to your guide we leave this entirely up to you.
• Basically, we advise you to keep things as light as possible, without skimping on the necessities. It is great to bring back a load of goodies for everybody back at home.

You do NOT need to bring

• Tents, sleeping mats.