Category: Safari adventures
Finding the Cats of SA for our client’s Big Cat Year
We were thrilled when Marc Bozon booked his safari with us to track the wild cats of South Africa — and what an incredible journey it’s been. These are the trips we love most: being part of a wildlife enthusiast’s passion and adventure.
Discovering the Okavango Delta: Africa’s living water wonderland
The Okavango Delta in northern Botswana is one of the most extraordinary natural landscapes on Earth. Often called the “Jewel of the Kalahari,” this inland delta is a lush oasis in the middle of an arid region, home to an astonishing diversity of wildlife, unique ecosystems, and natural wonders that few people get to see in their lifetime.
A Wetland that doesn’t reach the sea
What makes the Okavango truly remarkable is that it’s a rare example of a wetland that doesn’t drain into the ocean. The waters that flow in from the Angolan highlands spread across a vast network of channels, lagoons, and islands, eventually evaporating or soaking into the sandy soils of the Kalahari. This unusual setup creates a rich mosaic of habitats, allowing animals and plants to thrive even in one of Africa’s driest regions.
Interestingly, the floods arrive during the dry season, meaning that while much of the surrounding landscape is parched, the delta bursts to life—transforming into a green sanctuary where elephants, hippos, and countless other species congregate.
The slow march of the flood
The journey of the water through the delta is a story of patience and precision. The floodwaters can take up to six months to travel from the delta’s northern entry points to the southern reaches. This slow, gradual movement creates a staggered pattern of wet and dry zones, giving wildlife access to fresh water over an extended period and ensuring that the delta remains a dynamic, ever-changing ecosystem.
Predator’s Paradise
The Okavango isn’t just a haven for herbivores—it’s a predator’s playground. Lions, leopards, and crocodiles expertly navigate the maze of channels and islands, hunting in areas where the water shapes the landscape. The seasonal floods create temporary “roads” and ambush points that make the delta a unique hunting environment, unlike any other wetland in the world.
Floating Islands: Nature’s Rafts
Adding to its magic are the floating islands of vegetation that drift slowly with the floodwaters. These mats of reeds, grasses, and shrubs can support small trees and shrubs, forming microhabitats for birds, insects, and even small mammals. These floating islands are a rare ecological phenomenon, offering a glimpse into nature’s ingenuity and adaptability.
A true African wonder
From its seasonal floods and slow-moving waterways to its predator-rich channels and floating islands, the Okavango Delta is more than just a destination—it’s a living, breathing ecosystem full of surprises. Whether you’re an avid birder, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply someone who wants to witness one of Africa’s most unique landscapes, the delta promises experiences that will linger in your memory long after the journey ends.