Contents
- 1 9 of the Wildest Experiences in Southern Africa
- 1.0.1 1. Take a refreshing dip in South Africa’s most beautiful rock pool
- 1.0.2 3. Take a thrilling hike through the mountains
- 1.0.3 5. Walk the land of the dragons
- 1.0.4 6. Experience the beauty of the sky
- 1.0.5 7. Look for the big elephants in Namibia’s desert
- 1.0.6 Experience the Adventure at Puros Campsite
- 1.0.7 Feel the Spirit of Kruger at Olifants Backpacking Trail
9 of the Wildest Experiences in Southern Africa
Hey there! Have you ever dreamt of embarking on an epic adventure in Southern Africa? If you have, then you’re in the right place! I’m here to tell you about 9 mind-blowing experiences that will leave you in awe.
First up, let me introduce you to the mighty Victoria Falls. Prepare to be amazed as you witness one of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders. The sheer power of the water cascading down the cliffs is mesmerizing, and you won’t be able to resist being in awe of its beauty.
Next, let’s talk about going on a thrilling safari in the Kruger National Park. Get up close and personal with the incredible African wildlife as you venture into the heart of the park. Imagine the excitement of spotting a majestic elephant or a graceful cheetah in their natural habitat. It’s an experience you’ll treasure forever.
If you’re a fan of adrenaline-pumping activities, then the Namib Desert will definitely be your cup of tea. Brace yourself for sandboarding down towering dunes, or why not try quad biking for an extra thrill? The vast desert landscape is a dream playground for adventure seekers.
Now, let’s take a dive into the deep blue sea. The coastal town of Cape Town offers some of the best shark cage diving opportunities in the world. It’s the ultimate chance to come face to face with these fearsome creatures. Are you brave enough to jump in?
No trip to Southern Africa would be complete without a visit to the majestic Table Mountain. Take a cable car ride to the top and be rewarded with panoramic views that will take your breath away. It’s a truly unforgettable experience.
If you’re a history buff, then a tour of Robben Island should definitely be on your itinerary. Explore the place where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years and learn about South Africa’s struggle for freedom. It’s a powerful and moving experience.
For the adventure junkies out there, the Okavango Delta is a must-visit destination. Hop on a traditional mokoro canoe and navigate through the winding waterways, getting a unique perspective of this incredible ecosystem. You might even spot some elephants along the way!
Ready to up the ante? How about taking on the famous Otter Trail? This challenging hike along the Garden Route will test your endurance and reward you with breathtaking views of the rugged coastline. It’s not for the faint of heart, but the sense of accomplishment is worth every step.
Last but not least, let’s head to Blyde River Canyon. This natural wonder is one of the largest canyons in the world and offers stunning views of towering cliffs and lush vegetation. Take a boat trip or hike along the rim for an unforgettable experience.
Well, there you have it! 9 incredible experiences that will make your trip to Southern Africa an adventure of a lifetime. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, put on your explorer hat, and get ready for an unforgettable journey!
I’ve been to some of the most untouched regions on the planet. Throughout my explorations, the national parks and reserves of Southern Africa have provided me with some of the wildest experiences. Living in this part of the world is truly a privilege because these incredible adventures are just a day or two away from our major cities.
1. Take a refreshing dip in South Africa’s most beautiful rock pool
Where: Mkambati Nature Reserve, Wild Coast, South Africa GPS S31 16.057 E30 00.563 Distance from closest city Durban, SA: 183 km
Horseshoe Falls, in Mkambati Reserve. Photo by Scott Ramsay.
I’m here to tell you about the wondrous Mkambati Nature Reserve, nestled on the stunning northern Pondoland coast in South Africa. This place truly feels like a slice of subtropical paradise, with its pristine rivers, cascading waterfalls, rugged gorges, lush grasslands, and enchanting swamp forests that greet the beautiful secluded beaches.
Imagine this: there are only a handful of waterfalls worldwide that flow directly into the majestic sea, and one of them is none other than Mkambati Falls. These falls are located on the river that shares the name of this marvelous reserve. But that’s not all, my friends. Another gem that awaits your discovery is the marvelous Horseshoe Falls, positioned just two kilometers away in the heart of the reserve.
When I arrived at this destination, I couldn’t believe my eyes. The river cascaded down a magnificent sandstone wall, which spanned an impressive 50 meters wide and 20 meters high. It curved gracefully, resembling the shape of a crescent. Standing at its base, I marveled at the breathtaking rock pool before me, undoubtedly the most stunning I have encountered in all of Southern Africa. Its depths were vast, and its width expansive.
As I immersed myself in the water, I couldn’t help but savor its taste. This was how water was meant to be – pure, refreshing, and invigorating. The river drew its life from within the reserve, making the liquid that flowed before me some of the purest in the entire country.
This region is a treasure trove of nature’s wonders, boasting over 2200 species of plants. It is touted as one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots, a place teeming with life and ecological significance. However, amidst this paradise, there exists an impending threat. Mining companies lurk at the edges, ready to strip away the coastal forest and dunes. Their objective is to extract titanium from the sand located to the north of the reserve. I cannot fathom why anyone would want to destroy such a unique and pristine place.
Let me tell you about a hidden gem called Mtentu River Lodge. Located just north of the reserve, this lodge offers cozy cabins, a restaurant, and a bar. You can stay in one of their comfortable cabins for only R700 per night, which can accommodate up to four people. The lodge is beautifully situated by the river, providing a tranquil and picturesque setting for your stay. If you’re looking for a remote and peaceful getaway, Mtentu River Lodge is the perfect choice.
To make a reservation or find out more information, you can contact them at 083 234 0436 or visit their website at mtentulodge.co.za.
Another incredible experience awaits you in Mana Pools, Zimbabwe. Here, you have the opportunity to walk with wild elephants. This unique encounter takes place in the heart of nature, where you can observe these magnificent creatures up close and personal. The GPS coordinates for Mana Pools are S15 43.483 E29 21.695, and it is located approximately 120 kilometers from the closest city, Lusaka in Zambia.
Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and create lasting memories with these amazing experiences. Whether you choose to stay at Mtentu River Lodge or walk with wild elephants in Mana Pools, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable adventure. Don’t miss out on these incredible opportunities. Make your reservations today!
When you visit Mana Pools National Park in northern Zimbabwe, you’ll have a unique experience. Unlike other parks where you’re confined to a vehicle, here you can freely explore on foot, which means you’ll have plenty of encounters with elephants. It’s a great opportunity to observe these majestic creatures up close.
Mana Pools is famous for its bull elephants that inhabit the albida woodland floodplains along the Zambezi River. These elephants stay in the area throughout the year and are a highlight for visitors. As you walk around the park, you’ll come across these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
However, it’s important to remember that while you have the freedom to roam, it’s vital to understand wildlife behavior for your own safety. Mana Pools is home to not only elephants but also lions, leopards, wild dogs, buffaloes, and hyenas.
So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable wildlife experience, Mana Pools is the place to be. Just make sure you stay aware of your surroundings and respect the animals’ space. Enjoy the beauty of this incredible park and the wonders it has to offer.
When I spent a few days walking with guide Stretch Ferreira, I couldn’t help being in awe of his deep connection with the conservation area he has devoted himself to for over twenty years. The bull elephants, in particular, have formed a bond of trust with this lanky, bearded guide. And it was on one late afternoon that their peaceful coexistence would truly come to light.
As the sun began its descent, a bull elephant made its way towards Stretch and the group in a slow and deliberate manner. Its massive presence, towering over us, was enough to make anyone’s heart race. But I didn’t feel scared, not with Stretch by my side. His familiarity with each bull, with their distinct appearances and personalities, allowed him to understand their moods and behaviors.
Instead of fear, I was filled with curiosity and wonder. It was a moment where time seemed to stand still, as if the entire world was holding its breath in reverence for this majestic creature. I couldn’t help but marvel at the bond formed between Stretch and the bull elephants. It was a bond built on respect and mutual understanding.
It’s a different story just outside the sanctuary, where hunters in surrounding areas often act on impulse and shoot without hesitation. Yet, the relaxed bull elephants of Mana’s refuge seemed to possess an inherent wisdom. They recognized that the presence of tourists meant no harm, offering a stark contrast to their unfortunate counterparts beyond the park’s boundaries.
Being in the presence of these incredible creatures, witnessing the harmony between them and Stretch, left a lasting impression on me. It opened my eyes to the power of compassion and understanding in creating a safe haven for wildlife. And as I reflect on this experience, I can’t help but feel grateful for guides like Stretch, who dedicate their lives to preserving the beauty of our natural world.
Here’s what you can do: If you have a fully equipped 4×4, you can camp at the public Nyamepi Campsite for US$100 (R1 103) per night (maximum six people). It’s a great spot!
Another option is the luxury Goliath Safaris camp by Stretch Ferreira. They have six twin-bedded tents and one tent with a double bed. It costs $640 (R7 065) per night, and includes all meals, drinks, guided walks, canoeing, and game drives. It’s an incredible experience!
Contact information: The Nyamepi Campsite is managed by Zimparks. You can reach them at +263 63 533 or visit their website at www.zimparks.org.
For Goliath Safaris, you can call them at +263 488 2373 or send an email to [email protected] You can also check out their website at goliathsafaris.com.
3. Take a thrilling hike through the mountains
Where: uKhahlamba Drakensberg World Heritage Site, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa GPS S28 53.661 E29 00.752 Distance from the nearest city: Durban, SA – 223 km
Hiking in the Mnweni area of the uKhahlamba Drakensberg World Heritage Site is absolutely amazing. Check out this photo by Scott Ramsay.
Did you know? The Mnweni area is the least touristy part of the biggest mountain range in Southern Africa. Renowned landscape photographer John Hone once said that Mnweni has the most beautiful inland scenery in all of Southern Africa.
Now, here’s an interesting tidbit: The Mnweni area was not initially included in the protected uKhahlamba-Drakensberg World Heritage Site due to historical politics. However, there are new plans to change that. Currently, the land belongs to the Amangwane people, and it is located between Royal Natal National Park and Cathedral Peak.
If you’re up for a challenge, you can take one of the several passes that cut through the basalt cliffs in this area. These passes will take you to elevations of over 3000 meters. Be prepared for a tough hike that will leave your lungs bursting and your legs aching. But trust me, the views you’ll experience at the top will be more than worth it.
Last winter, I embarked on an incredible journey with my Zulu guide, Caiphus Mthabela. Caiphus is a true expert on the passes and plateau, residing right at the foot of the majestic cliffs. Together, we braved the icy nights, camping under the stars in our small tents. While the freezing temperatures challenged us, the daytime rewarded us with the warm embrace of the winter sun.
As we ventured across the vast expanse of Southern Africa’s roof, we indulged in the simple pleasures of life. Sipping hot tea, we would pause in awe, gazing down at the world below. It was an experience that made my heart flutter. And as we marveled at the breathtaking landscape, bearded vultures gracefully swooped and soared above us. In that moment, I yearned to sprout wings and take flight alongside these magnificent creatures.
This is true mountain territory, and you should only attempt to climb these heights if you’re fully prepared. Basotho dagga smugglers sometimes use the passes at night, and the cold winter weather can be dangerous. Since there are almost no other tourists, you might find yourself alone for days at a time. That’s why having a local guide like Caiphus is worth the price (R500 per day for a group of four hikers).
Here’s how you can do it: The Mnweni Hiking Centre provides five rondavels, each accommodating four people, for R170 per person per night. For more information, you can contact them at 072 275 0579 or visit their website at www.mnweni.org. If you need a guide, reach out to Caiphus Mthabela at 073 603 9107.
4. Spend the night in the wilderness near lions
Location: Mabuasehube Game Reserve, Botswana
GPS Coordinates: S25 03.967 E21 58.832
Distance from nearest city: Gaborone, Botswana – 399 km
In the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, you’ll find the Acacias at Mabuasehube, which offer the only shade for miles around. It’s quite a sight to see in this enormous park, covering an area of about 40,000 square kilometers, nearly as big as Switzerland. However, don’t expect to find any yodeling mountaineers here; this is a different kind of terrain altogether.
Welcome to the Kalahari Desert, a vast expanse of semi-arid land composed of endless dunes and pans. Here, ancient acacia trees stand proudly amongst the dunes, creating beautiful spots of shade. The landscape stretches as far as the eye can see, interrupted only by the presence of thousands of springbok and gemsbok, as well as the occasional sighting of a lion or a leopard.
The South African side of the park is the favorite among tourists. It has multiple rest camps, well-maintained roads, and excellent amenities. However, this part of the park is only one-third of its total area. The remaining two-thirds are located in Botswana, and this is where things start to get really fascinating.
When you venture into Botswana, you’ll discover that there are only a few jeep tracks cutting through the dense sand. This means that having a 4×4 vehicle is absolutely necessary. Even short distances can take hours to cover due to the challenging terrain. The scorching heat and extreme dryness add to the difficulty, making self-sufficiency a crucial factor.
Now, let’s talk about the campsites in Botswana. They are incredibly basic and consist of nothing more than GPS coordinates that guide you to clusters of acacia trees. These trees are the only source of shade for miles and miles around. These sites often have just one or two primitive toilets and occasionally a functional tap, if you’re lucky. Out here, you’re completely on your own, with no one else around… unless a pride of lions decides to pay a visit and surround your tent.
When I traveled to Mpayathuthlwa Pan in the east of Mabuasehube, I was fascinated to see the resident lions relaxing in the shade of the acacia trees at the campsite. They would spend hours just lounging there, enjoying the peaceful surroundings. I could hear their roars at night, but fortunately, they kept their distance from us. However, other campers told me about a previous trip where they had a more up-close encounter with the lions. They had to stay in their tents for several hours as nine lionesses decided to make themselves at home under the protective tarpaulins.
If you’re looking for an extraordinary wilderness experience in Southern Africa, the campsite at Mabuasehube is the perfect choice. And the best part is, it’s incredibly affordable, costing just 30 Pula (R36) per person per night. It’s a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature without breaking the bank.
When it comes to booking a campsite in Botswana’s national parks, you might be wondering where to start. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. You can contact Mabuasehube at +267 318 0774 or visit their website at mewt.gov.bw/DWnP for more information and helpful tips on how to make your reservation.
5. Walk the land of the dragons
Where: Ai-Ais/Richtersveld National Park, South Africa GPS S28 19.077 E17 15.107 Distance from nearest city Upington, SA: 395 km
You might be wondering, where in the world is Ai-Ais/Richtersveld National Park? Well, let me tell you. It is located in South Africa, specifically in the beautiful Richtersveld region. If you’re planning a visit, you can find it using the following GPS coordinates: S28 19.077 E17 15.107.
Now, you may also be curious about how far it is from the nearest city. Well, the park is approximately 395 kilometers away from the city of Upington, South Africa. That may sound like quite a distance, but trust me, the journey is worth it.
So, if you’re looking to explore the wonders of Ai-Ais/Richtersveld National Park, make sure you have your GPS ready and prepare yourself for a memorable adventure. The beauty of nature awaits!
You won’t find any marked trails leading to the summit of Tatasberg in the Ais-Ais/Richtersveld National Park. But don’t worry, you’ll figure it out. Just look for the mountain that seems to reach the clouds, made up of massive boulders stacked one on top of the other. It’s like a mythical dragon’s fortress, tucked away in a distant and dangerous realm.
This place is wild and savage. The mountains soar high, their jagged edges piercing the clear blue sky. And down below, the valleys soak up the scorching sun’s rays. It’s a harsh environment, but there’s a lifeline that cuts through this unforgiving landscape – the Orange River.
When it comes to finding your way to the top of Tatasberg, there’s no clearly marked trail. But don’t worry, the summit is always in sight, so it’s not too difficult to stay on track. It usually takes about two hours to hike up the mountain, give or take. Trust me, the breathtaking views of the desert that await you are well worth the effort.
If you happen to be staying at Tatasberg Wilderness Camp, I highly recommend asking camp ranger Seth Domrogh for guidance. He can show you the way to the bottom of Tatasberg, where your hiking adventure begins. From there, you can start your ascent and immerse yourself in the beauty of the desert.
Standing atop Tatasberg can make you feel utterly alone… and a little scared. But it’s also exhilarating, stripping away all the masks and facades society puts on us. It’s a raw, untamed sensation. And this desert is teeming with life. It’s the most diverse place in the world despite the aridity, boasting extraordinary plants like the quiver tree. These giants can live for centuries and tower over 10 meters in height (keep an eye out for them on Tatasberg). Gemsbok, Hartmann’s mountain zebra, leopard, and caracal all roam this land, though their numbers are understandably scarce. And when the sun sets, the night skies illuminate with a brilliance beyond compare.
Let’s do it: Just a short distance away from the mountains, right by the Orange river, you’ll find the Tatasberg Wilderness Camp. It’s a wonderful place to stay, with cabins that can accommodate two people starting at R710.
Reach out: Give them a call at 027 831 1506 or visit sanparks.co.za
6. Experience the beauty of the sky
Location: Central Kalahari Game Reserve, Botswana GPS S21 24.288 E23 47.804 Distance from the nearest city, Gaborone, Botswana: 418 km
When you visit the Central Kalahari Reserve, get ready to be amazed by the breathtaking night sky.
In the southern hemisphere, we have the privilege of facing the dazzling Milky Way, which means our night skies are filled with an abundance of stars. If you’re thinking about counting them, be prepared for a very, very long task. With over 300 billion stars in our galaxy, you can imagine just how many of them are visible in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve.
This reserve is a haven of darkness, free from any light pollution. One of the largest protected areas in the world and the second-largest in Africa, it spans for hundreds of kilometers without any man-made structures in sight. The absence of human interference allows the stars to shine their brightest, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
Imagine a place so vast that it deserves the title of “ginormous.” That’s what you’ll find in this park, which spans over 50,000 square kilometers. Its flat grasslands stretch for as far as the eye can see, growing on top of desert sand. During the summer, when thunderstorms pass through, herds of springbok and gemsbok are drawn to this oasis in the desert.
The vastness of the park means you can absorb yourself in nature’s incredible beauty. On over 330 days of the year, the sky is clear and cloudless. When night falls, it’s like stepping into a Star Trek episode set on Valentine’s Day. The stars twinkle so brightly, it feels like you’re venturing into the depths of outer space itself.
Despite the celestial experience, you are still firmly grounded in the heart of Africa. The roaring of lions, the melodious song of nightjars, the barking of geckos, and the croaking of crickets create a symphony of wilderness. It begs the question, why would you want to go to space when heaven is already here?
Let’s do it: You can stay at the Kalahari Plains Camp for R3 000 per person per night. This includes meals, drinks, and two activities. If this is a little pricey for you, there are also campsites in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. These campsites are managed by either the Department of Wildlife and National Parks Botswana or Bigfoot Tours. The cost is only P168 (R203) per campsite, and the maximum number of people allowed is six.
How to get in touch: To book at the Kalahari Plains Camp, you can contact Wilderness Safaris at 011 807 1800 or visit their website at wilderness-safaris.com. For campsites, you can reach out to Bigfoot Tours at +(267) 395 3360 or visit their website at www.bigfoottours.co.bw. The Department of Wildlife and National Parks Botswana also has campsites, and you can find more information at www.mewt.gov.bw.
7. Look for the big elephants in Namibia’s desert
Where: Puros, Kunene, Namibia GPS S18 44.064 E12 56.562 Distance from nearest city Windhoek, Namibia: 605 km
Imagine standing in the vastness of a desert, the sand stretching out before you like a canvas of possibilities. As I gazed into the distance, I saw tiny figures moving, slowly making their way towards me. They were elephants, majestic and powerful, navigating the harsh desert landscape with ease.
This incredible sight happened in Puros, a remote community conservancy in the Kunene region of Namibia. Known for its abundance of desert-adapted elephants, Puros is like a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. And that’s where I found myself, accompanied by my knowledgeable guide, Robbin Uatokuja.
Now, let me tell you, finding these magnificent creatures is no easy task. Despite their size, elephants have a way of blending into their surroundings, making their presence elusive. But the challenge only adds to the thrill of the search.
That morning was a stroke of luck. We were in for a surprise – they found us. As they came closer, Robbin grabbed my shirt and motioned for us to step back. These elephants had suffered years of shooting and persecution during the civil war between South African forces and Angolans. Nowadays, they are more accustomed to humans. But we didn’t want to take any risks.
They strolled past us, calm and composed, and vanished into the horizon. There was no one else for miles, just the two of us in this extraordinary scene of elephants standing out boldly against a landscape devoid of any other signs of life. It remains the most unforgettable encounter I’ve ever had with wildlife.
Experience the Adventure at Puros Campsite
You’re going to love the Puros Campsite! It’s the perfect place for fully equipped, self-catering 4x4ers like you. Each of our six sites is equipped with its own toilet, outdoor shower, and braai. It’s everything you need to have an amazing camping experience.
And guess what? The cost is only N$100 per person per night! That’s a fantastic deal. Plus, if you’re looking for something extra special, we offer guided elephant tours for just N$450 per group (up to 10 people) for about four hours. It’s an incredible opportunity to get up close and personal with these magnificent animals.
If you’re ready to book your spot at Puros Campsite, just give Max Kasaona a call at +264 81 664 2102. He’ll make sure everything is all set for your stay.
If you’re interested in the guided elephant tours, you can reach out to Robbin Uatokuja at +264 81 716 2066 or [email protected] Trust me, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss!
Feel the Spirit of Kruger at Olifants Backpacking Trail
If you’re craving an adventure in the heart of nature, the Olifants Backpacking Trail in Kruger National Park is calling your name. Located just 204 km from the closest city, Polokwane, South Africa, it’s the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The trail offers an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of the African wilderness. You’ll be surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and have the chance to encounter a variety of wildlife along the way.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to feel the spirit of Kruger. It’s an experience you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
Hey there! Let me tell you about my adventure on the Olifants Backpacking Trail. It was such a great experience!
The Kruger National Park is an incredibly popular tourist spot. It’s a massive area, covering over 20,000 square kilometers, filled with beautiful bush and savanna. It’s a haven for wildlife, especially because so much of their natural habitat has been taken away by human activity. It’s sad to think about, but it’s true.
Now, most people who visit the park do so from the comfort of their cars or from behind the safety of the rest camp’s fences. But not me! I decided to take things to the next level and go on the Olifants Backpacking Trail. It’s one of three multi-day walking and camping trails in the park, and let me tell you, it’s a total immersion in the true spirit of Kruger.
Back in the day, before the tourists arrived, the famous warden Colonel James Stevenson-Hamilton used to patrol the park on foot. That’s the kind of experience I wanted, and that’s exactly what I got on the backpacking trail. For four days and three nights, I hiked and camped my way through the park, just like Colonel James did.
When I went on the guided walks along the Olifants River, it was a truly raw experience. You see, you have to carry your own backpack with supplies, go to the bathroom in the bush, and cook your meals over an open fire. At night, you sleep under the stars, but if you prefer, you can sleep in tents. Each person on the trail takes turns keeping watch while the rest of us sleep. One night, a giant elephant came just a few meters away from our camp to drink water from the river. I could see the moonlight shimmering on the water as his trunk broke the surface.
During the day, we had some close encounters with grumpy old buffaloes. And one lazy afternoon, as we took a nap in the shade of a leadwood tree, an otter emerged from the river to check us out. These are the kind of wildlife interactions that you can only experience on foot. It reminded me of Colonel Stevenson-Hamilton’s motto: “Keep it simple, keep it wild.” I’m sure he would have approved of the trails in Kruger today.
Hey, guess what? I’ve got an awesome adventure for you!
So, here’s the deal: there are these incredible guided backpack trails that you can go on. And get this, it only costs R2 350 per person! But here’s the catch – you’ve got to bring your own food. I know, I know, it’s a bit of a bummer, but trust me, the experience will be totally worth it.
If you’re wondering where you can find this amazing adventure, look no further than Bwabwata National Park in the Zambezi Region of Namibia. And get this – the park is home to Africa’s richest river! How cool is that?
I’ll give you the coordinates just in case you’re up for the challenge: S17 53.810 E23 17.198. Oh, and if you’re wondering how far it is from the closest city, Livingstone in Zambia, it’s about 268 km.
So, what do you say? Are you ready to embark on this incredible journey? If yes, then all you need to do is give them a call at 012 428 9111 or visit their website at sanparks.org to get all the details.
Have you ever heard of Horseshoe Bend? It’s a remote area in Namibia’s Caprivi Strip that’s known for being quite difficult to reach. But let me tell you, the wildlife sightings there are absolutely amazing! Just take a look at this stunning photo by Scott Ramsay.
Now, let me give you some more information about this incredible place. Horseshoe Bend is actually an oxbow lake located on the Kwando River. It’s situated right in the heart of Southern Africa’s most abundant wildlife region. To the east, you have Chobe and Hwange, to the north is Kafue, and to the south lies the famous Okavango Delta.
But here’s the thing – Horseshoe Bend is tucked away in Bwabwata National Park in Caprivi, which happens to be one of the least visited wildlife hotspots in southern Africa. One of the reasons for this is its remote location, making it quite challenging to access. Additionally, the region has a long history of military conflict, which has put off many potential visitors.
Peace is finally here, and it’s making a fierce comeback that rivals a charging herd of impala. The land is teeming with wildlife, gracefully traversing the community conservancies. These conservancies have evolved over centuries, coexisting with majestic creatures like lions, elephants, wild dogs, and leopards.
When it comes to spotting these incredible animals, the two-kilometer-long lake is the ultimate destination. However, reaching it is no easy feat. A hidden sandy path emerges from the main road, stretching for 40 kilometers until it opens up into the woodland. No signs, gates, or park officials guide the way. Unless you have a GPS, speak Lozi fluently, or have a knowledgeable local guide by your side, you may find yourself hopelessly lost.
Almost every day at sunset, I am mesmerized by the sight of colossal herds of elephants and buffalos making their way to the lake to quench their thirst. As they leisurely stroll through the dusty woodland, the rays of the late afternoon sun reflect off their majestic tusks and powerful horns. It’s truly an awe-inspiring experience that awaits you, and the best part is that you might have this whole spectacle to yourself. However, I must warn you that this hidden gem is gaining popularity, so it’s better to act sooner than later.
Ready for adventure? Namushasha Lodge is your gateway to the lake. For just N$1 168.43 (R1 172) per person per night, you get to immerse yourself in nature’s splendor, enjoy delicious meals, and embark on unforgettable lake excursions. If camping is more your style, you can opt for a campsite at just N$150 (R150) per person. Trust me, it’s worth every penny!
How to reach us? Give us a call at +264 61 230 066 or visit gondwana-collection.com for more information. We can’t wait to welcome you to Namushasha Lodge and show you the beauty of the lake!
Remember, this incredible experience was featured in the January 2015 issue of Getaway magazine. While the prices mentioned were accurate at the time of publication, it’s always wise to double-check with us before you embark on your journey.