Photos taken during our camping safari through Botswana April 2006. What makes camping in Botswana so special is that you are allowed to camp within game reserves among wild animals. Campsites are secluded and you feel totally part of nature. One also has to be totally self sufficient regarding water, power, fuel and food for the duration of your stay at a particular reserve. It was an experience we'll never forget!

The sights and sounds were amazing: the roar of lion or hyena howling send shivers through your spine, but the sounds that you're not sure of are the ones that keep you awake during the night. Being alone, far away from any assistance can sometimes be very scary especially during the night when you hear footsteps or breathing though the thin tent walls. Could it be hyena, lion or elephant? What if they'll wreck your tent or demolish your fridge? We had some minor encounters with elephants at Ihaha camp site in the Chobe. The little ones are curious and tend to come closer for a better view - this causes the the rest of the family herd to become aggressive and they try to warn you off with flapping ears and loud trumpeting screams. Fred tried to keep them at bay with a catapult but eventually we had to jump in the car and fetch the camp warden who was more experienced at driving them away with lots of noise and sticks.

We will certainly go again, next time to the Okavango, Savute and from there to Ihaha in Chobe. The Okavango was off limits due to heavy rains.

Such a safari is strongly recommended. Botswana is safe for tourists due to the fact that there are only 2 million people who are all very friendly and helpful.

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Photo album created by NeuWebz