At Footsteps Across The Delta you enter one of the great, untamed regions of Africa: the spectacular Okavango Delta. Experience the astonishing contrasts created when the mighty Okavango River flows into the arid Kalahari Desert – the result is a variety of habitats, riverine forest, palm islands, permanent swamps and dry sandveld all with an unparalleled wealth of animal diversity. This safari maintains the elegance and eccentricity of the original ‘under canvas African safari’. The emphasis is on exploring this breathtakingly beautiful and diverse environment as the first African explorers did, either by Mokoro (dependent on water levels) or on foot.
This comfortable and private Footsteps camp accommodates guests in three specially designed twin-bedded Meru tents, complete with sewn-in floors. Each tent has its own bucket shower and porcelain flush toilet, which is attached to the back of the tent and there is even a daily laundry service. The ‘bush kitchen’ is run by our chef and prepares menus to whet all appetites.
Walking in the wilderness is the highlight of a true safari experience. No special training is required as the focus is on exploration and discovery – tracking fresh spoor each morning to reveal the night’s events. Guests will be in the hands of the best professional guides whose first passion is to interpret and bring to life every aspect of the bush. Other possible activities include game-drives, Mokoro or fishing trips, which vary throughout the year.
Day One
On arrival in Maun you will be met by a Ker & Downey Botswana representative, then board a light aircraft transfer to the Shinde Private concession. The flight is approximately 25 minutes and you will be amazed as the desert transforms to delta before your eyes. At the airstrip you are met by your guides and transfer in a 4×4 safari vehicle to camp. Over a refreshing drink and light lunch you will be briefed on activities and safety during your stay, then it is time to settle into camp.
Later in the afternoon begin your first lesson in bush craft and some basic pointers regarding animal behaviour and respect for all the inhabitants of the wilderness. Following this introduction over tea and cake, it is time to set out on your first short walk, allowing you to time to become accustomed to some of the sights, sounds and smells that make up the language of the African bush.
On return to camp take a piping hot, bucket shower under the stars, before aperitifs around the fire. During a sumptuous dinner, we discuss the lessons of the day, and learn more about Botswana, the history and its people.
Day Two
The day begins before sunrise with coffee/tea around the fire, and breakfast before heading out to see what the bush has in store for us.
Following the water’s edge provides spectacular views of curious hippos and the multitude of water birds often including many migratory visitors. Plains game abounds; giraffe, zebra, tsessebe, impala, wildebeest and herds of lechwe graze on the open flood plains. On return to camp walking along the forest’s edge you will often find bachelor elephants dozing in the shade, or bathing in the lagoons as the day heats up.
After a delicious lunch and a lazy afternoon napping or reading it is time to venture out again, this time (water level permitting) by mokoro on the lookout for the sitatunga, one of the world’s most unusual and secretive species mainly found in the Okavango Delta. The mokoro provides one of the best opportunities to view this wonderful semi aquatic antelope, while discovering some of the multitude of plants and animals that make up this diverse ecosystem.
Day Three
Woken early by the sounds of the bush we head out again in search of wildlife learning about tracking skills over the thick Kalahari sands. Lions can be found and other species of mammals seen on walks include buffalo, wild dog and cheetah. All can be viewed safely on foot from a respectable distance and encounters like these are the ones you’ll never forget!
The afternoon is time to take it easy after the long morning walk! Perhaps trying a spot of fishing, Okavango style, either along the banks of lagoons and channels or, for the more adventurous from the mokoro! Alternatively should you wish to take a game drive to explore the area slightly further afield you may also do so as the safari vehicle is always at your disposal. The final dinner is cause for much celebration as the safari draws to an end, toasting new friends, reminiscing over unique experiences and lifelong memories, finally drifting off to sleep with the ever-present chorus of the hippos and the tinkle of the reed frogs.
Day Four
The morning is spent according to your departure time, and if time allows, a final activity. A final drive back to the airstrip and it is time for farewells to your guides, before taking off to your next destination, leaving you pondering a final thought… How long will it be before you can return?
Footsteps across the Delta itinerary Gallery
