ULTIMATE BOTSWANA SAFARI - PHOTOFLY TRAVEL CLUB
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Ultimate Botswana Safari
The Magical Okavango Delta AND…
Captivating Cape Town & South Africa’s Southern Coast
May 1st – 10th 2021
A magical adventure combining Africa’s largest inland delta wonderland with South Africa’s “Mother City”, Cape Town,
and the southern coasts never-ending beauty! We’ll begin with a seriously authentic safari in the Okavango Delta, teeming
with wildlife and home to Africa’s most iconic creatures. Lions, elephants, hippos, giraffes, and leopards roam among a
labyrinth of shimmering lagoons, winding waterways, and thriving islands that once began as termite mounds. This great
river that flows not into the sea, but the center of Southern Africa offers
a deeply intimate experience with nature and a safari that redefines the
meaning of “off the path”.
After our minds have been blown witnessing and photographing the
beauty of Okavango, our adventure continues to the southernmost part
of this gigantic continent: Cape Town, South Africa, and her epic coast.
Resting at the confluence of the Indian and Atlantic oceans,
sandwiched between the slopes of the iconic Table Mountain and the
glistening sapphire waters of Table Bay, the exceptionally scenic city
of Cape Town is in a class of its own. Some cities boast rich culture,
vibrant nightlife, a cosmopolitan atmosphere, and extraordinary
architecture, while others boast breathtaking landscapes and
extraordinary natural wonders. Cape Town is lucky enough to be blessed with all of these attractions and so much more.
With its bustling harbor, world-class beaches, top-notch vineyards, and its mountainous surroundings brimming with
diverse flora and fauna, Cape Town captivates the hearts (and cameras) of all who visit.
Part 1: Botswana’s Okavango Delta (4 Nights)
Mobile Glamping (Luxury Camping)
Our fully serviced mobile camps are designed to achieve a state of harmony and a celebration of balance & abundance.
The tented paradise is set up in the heart of the Okavango’s Moremi Game Reserve where our every need is catered for
with no compromise on indulgence. ‘Glamping’ safaris offer us the ultimate in exclusivity – not just in terms of luxury
tented accommodation, comfortable vehicles, and a private chef catering for every meal, but the ability to explore,
experience, and photograph an unforgettable wildlife wilderness very few have access to.
Our tented camp includes:
- “Luxury” Canvas Tents:
• King sized beds w/ real mattresses, headboards, bedside tables, & bedside lamps
• En suite bathrooms with chemical flush toilets & hot water, “bucket style” showers
- Boma: Social space & gathering place around
a campfire for drinks, hot chocolate, coffee, &
warming up by the fire.
- “Dining Room” Tent: Large tent with long,
communal dining table for delicious meals in
the middle of nature’s paradise.
- “Lounge” Tent: Communal space, with sofa
chairs & tables, for safari briefings, relaxing,
photo sharing, & enjoying a cocktail with the
best of company.
- Charging Ports: 6 charging ports per vehicle
& camp charging station.
What to Expect
Each day will consist of 2 safari activities (one morning, one afternoon). For a complete and detailed
description of the safaris and other options check out the below list
• Game Drives – The best way to see and photograph the predators, large herds of elephant and buffalo is on
a game drive in one of our open vehicles. We will go early in the morning and in the late afternoon, the best
times to spot wildlife (and the best light for photographs too!).
• Motorboat River Safari – Cruise through the winding waterways spotting game as we go; a perfect way to
end a day in the bush having sundowners on the water!
• Bush Walks – Let our knowledgeable guides
guide us through the bush on foot. These
experiences focus on vegetation, birds, tracks,
insects, butterflies, and more.
• Mokoro Canoe River Safari – The surreal
silence of the Delta is best experienced from a
makoro, a traditional canoe-like vessel commonly
used in the Okavango Delta as a popular mode of
transport, and now utilized for game viewing
safaris. Mokoros carry two passengers and the
boat-man stands at the stern using a long pole
called a ngashi to navigate the calm waters. Gliding through the tranquil papyrus waterways will be an
experience we’ll never forget and some fantastic images can be captured from this unique vantage point.
* Please note, as a group we will choose a different set of activities each day. We specialize in tailor made
experiences and will do everything we can to accommodate the needs of our group, but it will be
encouraged to participate in the chosen activities since our safari guides will know best.
Daily Itinerary
(B-breakfast, L-lunch, D-dinner)
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
The Okavango
“Welcome to one of Africa’s most extraordinary places.
There is something elemental about the UNESCO World
Heritage-listed Okavango Delta: the rising and falling of its
waters; the daily drama of its wildlife encounters; its
soundtrack of lion roars, saw-throated leopard barks and
the crazy whoop of a running hyena; and the mysteries
concealed by its papyrus reeds swaying gently in the evening
breeze.” – Lonely Planet
Day 1, Welcome to Africa’s Eden: Saturday, May 1st
2021 (D)
On arrival at the Maun International Airport (MUB), we’ll transfer to the domestic terminal and board our scenic
charter flight to a remote airstrip in the Okavango Delta.
On arrival, our safari vehicles will be waiting to take us
on our first “warm up” game drive en route to our
mobile, luxury camp. Get ready to take in the incredible
beauty of the Okavango and be on the lookout for our
first sightings and photographs of her beautiful
creatures.
Once reaching our camp, we’ll be met with a refreshing
welcome drink and escorted to our unique, “luxury”
tents. Freshen up and relax before our first, freshly
prepared dinner and a cocktail by the boma (fire). Rest up in our en suite tents with real, soft beds because
tomorrow morning the magic of the delta beckons…
*Please note you will need to arrive at Maun International Airport (MUB) on May 1st 2021 any time BEFORE 11:00
AM. This means you will likely depart your closest airport in the USA on April 29th.
* More specific arrival & departure time windows needed to make our included charter flight & group transfers will be
sent out 5-6 months prior to the trip. We are happy to help anyone find an international flight after you receive this
information. Please DO NOT book your flight before you receive this announcement.
* Travel Insurance is also highly recommended (Please contact us at joinus@photoflytravel.com for full travel
insurance quotes upon sign up)
OPTIONAL PRE-NIGHT: April 30th, 2021
*Unless your international flight arrives in Maun (MUB) before 11:00 AM on May 1st, you will need to
spend a 1-night stopover here. Additional cost & inclusions below:
Upon arrival at the Maun International Airport (MUB) you’ll be escorted to our overnight stay near the airport.
Double Occupancy, sharing room: $75.00 per person
Single, Own Room: $158.00 per person
What’s Included (Per Night):
Maun Lodge (15 minutes from airport): http://www.maunlodge.com/
• 1-night accommodation
• Round trip airport transfers (to/from Maun International Airport (MUB) *Free shuttle offered by hotel
• Breakfast
Please e-mail joinus@photoflytravel.com if you wish to sign up for the pre-night above.
Day 2, An Authentic Safari Experience: Sunday, May 2nd 2021
(B, L, D)
This morning we’re up early for tea, coffee, and snacks before our
first off the path safari! This is the best way to see and photograph
the predators, large herds of elephant and, buffalo in an open-air
vehicle. The beauty of the Okavango is its remote location with
endless waterways, plains, & forest, affording us a unique and
private experience with few other tourists in the region. The animals
here are truly one with nature and ideal for capturing the most authentic photographs.
We’ll return from our first adventure for brunch.
Relax and take in the surroundings for the next few
hours or enjoy a soothing siesta to the sound of the
trees and grass whispering from the breeze. This
afternoon we’re back on the safari trail for a river
cruise; a wonderful experience that contrasts the
game drives with different vantage points for
viewing and photographing elephants, cape
buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, a variety of bird
species, and more!
Each evening will be celebrated with sundowner
cocktails in the bush or back at camp before a
delicious dinner. Our hosts pride themselves in
serving the highest level of cuisine when in such
remote and mobile locations. Dinner is served at
tables under the stars, or by a roaring fire on a
cooler night.
Day 3 - 4, Beauty of the Delta: May 3rd & 4th (B, L, D)
The next 3 days will be spent similar to Day 2 with different activities to choose from the list on page 2. Feel
free to sleep in any day and participate in the afternoon activity as opposed to the early option.
* Please note that the best game viewing opportunities are in the early morning (“The early bird gets the worm”
pun intended). Each day we will do one morning activity and one afternoon activity with breakfast,
brunch/lunch, and dinner in between.
Day 5, Farewell Okavango: Wednesday, May 5th
2021 (B)
After breakfast this morning we’ll have a chance for
one final game adventure before hopping on our
charter flight back to Maun and onto Cape Town! The
next segment in this unforgettable journey begins
today…
*The international flight from Maun (MUB) to Cape
Town (CPT) is INCLUDED. More details about this
flight, arrival/departure times, etc. will be sent to the
group before the trip.
____________________________________________________________________
Part 2: South Africa’s Cape Town & the Surrounding Coast
(4 Nights)
____________________________________________________________________
Day 5 (Continued) Wednesday, May 5th 2021 (B)
We arrive at the Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in the late afternoon. The remainder of the day is at
leisure to explore the waterfront and surrounding area by the hotel. Tonight, join our Tour Director for a
delicious meal at a local favorite or feel free to grab a bite to eat on your own and rest up for tomorrow’s
excursion throughout the best of Cape Town.
Overnight Radisson Red Waterfront
Day 6, The Southern-Most Part of Africa: Thursday, May 6th 2021 (B, L)
Cape Town
“A coming-together of cultures, cuisines, and landscapes, there’s nowhere quite like Cape Town, a singularly beautiful city
crowned by the magnificent Table Mountain National
Park. And one can’t help but be seduced by the
glorious natural beauty of the Garden Route. The
range of topography, vegetation, wildlife, and outdoor
activities is remarkable, not to mention the world-class
vineyards & stunning beaches.” Lonely Planet
After breakfast this morning we’ll embark on a
journey full of history, culture, and beauty in
South Africa’s world-class city. First stop, the
iconic Table Mountain. Enjoy the fresh air and
capture stunning photographs as we ascend to the
summit of the most iconic landmark in South
Africa. When we reach the top, take in the
panoramic views and be on the lookout for
caracals (wild cats), rock hyraxes, and chacma baboons. On a clear day, we’ll get spectacular views of the city,
its waterfront, Camps Bay, the majestic Hottentots Holland Mountains to the east, and the mountains of the Cape
Peninsula all the way down to Cape Point to the south.
From here we make our way back to the heart of the city for a driving and walking tour. History and
photography highlights include the president’s official residence, Houses of Parliament, city hall, the Cape of
Good Hope Castle, Green Market Square, and the Company Gardens. Continuing on, we head up to Signal Hill.
From the top, the stunning views of Table Bay Harbor, city center, the Atlantic, and Table Mountain pose for our
cameras. But the real reason we’re here is to
witness the firing of the noon gun (cannon), one of
Cape Town’s oldest traditions. First fired in 1806,
it was originally used to signal ships in Table Bay
and are now the oldest guns used daily in the
world!
The last stop of the day takes us to the historical
Bo-Kaap neighborhood, or Malay Quarter. The
brightly colored architecture in this area is typical
of what Cape Town was like 200 years ago. Here
we’ll experience first-hand the cultural diversity
that Cape Town has to offer on a guided walk
through the historical heart of the Bo-Kaap. Our
meander through the quarter ends with a treat when
we watch a traditional cooking demonstration to
learn how to fold samosas and mix masala for “Cape Malay Curry”. The only thing to do next is dig into this
traditional, full course meal!
The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure to rest back at the hotel or continue your exploration through the
streets and parks of Cape Town. As always, our Tour Director will have a great restaurant picked out for those
who want to enjoy dinner together as a group.
Overnight Radisson Red Waterfront
Day 7, Stunning Cape Point & Her Penguins: Friday, May 7th 2021 (B)
Today is going to be full of incredible vistas, quaint
coastal towns, and gorgeous wildlife; a true feast for
our cameras! The exciting road trip takes us to all the
best beaches, bays, & viewpoints as we flank back &
forth between the Atlantic and Indian coastlines,
eventually arriving at the meeting place of these two
mighty oceans.
Our first stop takes us to the charming fishing
community of Hout Bay. Now one of the most popular
residential areas, the harbor still has a charm of days
gone by. Photograph the colorful fishing boats in this
small harbor before hopping on a short cruise for a
first-hand view of the kelp forests and abundant sea
life around Duiker Island (Seal Island). The ship takes
us within feet of the shore for close up views and photo ops of the Cape fur seals in their natural environment.
Back on land, we’ll check out the local fish
market known as Mariners Wharf. Africa’s and
the Southern Hemisphere’s first harbor-front
emporium, the wharf was conceptualized and built
during the 1980s by Hout Bay’s very own Stanley
Dorman. The restaurants, shops, and markets
exude a maritime ambience and have become a
unique destination where the famous, locals,
jetsetters, and tourists rub shoulders with old salts
and venerable fishing captains.
The road trip continues as we make our way
toward Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope.
Said to be the romantic meeting place of the
Atlantic and Indian Oceans, the explorer Sir Francis Drake once called it “the fairest Cape that we saw in the
whole circumference of the globe”. As we approach the world-famous
promontory, we’ll head down a trail toward the lighthouse for some
fantastic photos all around.
Onward around the Cape lies Boulders Beach and the penguin colony.
Humans and penguins alike treasure this beautiful beach, protected
from the wind and large waves by her ancient granite boulders. Search
for creatures in the interesting rock pools before meeting the local
residents and stars of this sandy white haven, the African penguins!
The only species found on the continent, these cute, little sea birds are
ever so curious and eager to pose for our cameras.
Our final stop takes us just outside Cape Town to the lush Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Home to some 3,500
species of Southern African flora and fauna, we’ll discover this
beautiful, green sanctuary on a guided walk through the forest
floor, into and through the trees, and popping out above the
canopy, giving spectacular panoramic vistas of the surrounding
mountains, garden, and Cape Flats. Great shots to capture in
every direction!
Back in the city the remainder of the day is at leisure. Rest up
tonight or grab another delicious meal with the group because
tomorrow we embark on the famous Garden Route.
Overnight Radisson Red Waterfront
The Western Cape: Hermanus, the Garden Route, & Cape Winelands
“At the beginning of the famous & stunning coastal drive known as the “Garden Route” we’ll arrive in Hermanus. Here,
the “pristine beaches extend as far as the eye can see, and the Klein River mountain range provides a breathtaking
backdrop to this popular coastal town.” But more
importantly, Hermanus “is generally considered the best
land-based whale-watching destination in the world.
From June to December, the bay becomes the swimming
grounds for a large number of southern right whales. So
what might have otherwise just been a small fishing
village is today a large, bustling town with an excellent
range of accommodation, restaurants, and shops.” And
while the whales are no secret, Hermanus has hidden
gems to delight our eyes and taste buds: a gorgeous wine
route that runs parallel to the sea, dotted with laid-back
vineyards and estates offering delicious vintages”. –
Excerpts from Fodor’s & Lonely Planet
Day 8, The Charms of Hermanus: Saturday,
May 8th 2021 (B)
After an exciting couple days in and around Cape Town, it’s time to witness the beautiful Western Cape. In the
AM we’ll make our way along the coast toward the gorgeous town of
Hermanus. The stunning drive will be worthy of a few photo stops as
we straddle the coast with the ocean cliffs & seaside towns on one side,
and striking mountains on the other.
Arriving in Hermanus, we’ll head straight to Abagold, one of the
largest Abalone farms in the world. Here we learn about the history of
abalone in South Africa, the biology of this mysterious mollusk, and
the unfortunate demise of wild stocks due to over-harvest and
poaching. Next, we’ll boot-up for a guided walk to experience the
aquaculture industry of abalone farming firsthand on one of the
oldest abalone farms in South Africa. The system & technical
infrastructure that keeps Abagold’s 10,000,000 abalone healthy
and happily housed in their 40,000 baskets is fascinating!
Interesting photo ops surround us as we walk through the state
of the art abalone hatchery where broodstock are cared for and
baby abalone (spats) are produced. Highlights include the
impressive seawater pumps and aeration system, back-up power
generation, innovative water reticulation and renewable energy
projects, including the construction of the first ever wave energy
converter in South Africa.
A break for lunch will be followed by an adventure through Fernkloof Nature Reserve. Located in the Kleinrivier
Mountains above Hermanus, this 4,500-acre reserve harbors a huge number of plant species and ranges from sea
level to 2,800 feet. The reserve lies across the entire
northern side of town and with a 40 mile network of
trails, we’ll have plenty of easy and moderate hiking
options to choose from with our guide.
The day comes to an end at our beautiful boutique bed
and breakfast, flanked by the sea and bustling town
center. Join our Tour Director this evening for some fine
cuisine overlooking the ocean or right in the heart of
town. Otherwise, feel free town explore on your. Rest up
tonight because tomorrow we go on a different kind of
safari…
Overnight Harbour House Hotel
Day 9, A Safari for “Wine Spotting!”: Sunday, May
9th 2021 (B, D)
We have a unique and delicious adventure in store for today. Between the foothills and mountains behind
Hermanus lies Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. With a
name that translates to heaven and Earth, this wine
haven gives Napa and Sonoma a run for its money.
Its terroir is characterized by clay soil and the cool
southeaster acting as a vortex cooling down the
vineyards with cold air from the Benguela current
and imparts a unique flavor to the wines, which are
often compared with those of Burgundy - especially
the pinot noirs & chardonnays. Best of all, the
vineyards here lie within close proximity to one
another making it an ideal place for a wine safari!
Our safari vehicles offer a distinctively South
African experience while we take in the beauty and
‘champagne air’ of the picturesque valley. Two wine tastings
are included along with a wine cellar tour as we “wine-hop”
from one world-class winery to the next.
After a filling lunch on the beautiful grounds of one of the
vineyards, we’ll make the short drive back into town for a final
night dinner celebration. An array of delectable dishes will set
the stage for a wonderful night reminiscing about the
unforgettable journey we’ve had together.
Overnight Harbour House Hotel
Day 10, Farewell to Africa…For Now: Monday, May 10th 2021 (B)
Breakfast this morning is followed by the drive back to Cape Town International Airport (CPT) for our flights
home. While it may be goodbye to Africa for the time being, we have no doubt it will be one of many adventures
to come on this incredible continent.
Accommodations
Botswana
Okavango Delta: Luxury Tented Camp (as described on page 2)
South Africa
Cape Town: Radisson RED V&A Waterfront Cape Town (https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-
red-cape-town-va-waterfront)
Hermanus: Harbour House Hotel (https://harbourhousehotel.co.za/)
What’s Included:
• 9 Nights/10 Days
o 4 Nights/5 Days Botswana Safari (Okavango Delta)
o 5 Nights/6 Days Eastern Cape, South Africa (Cape Town &
Hermanus)
• Accommodation as stipulated in the itinerary
• All tours & activities as listed in itinerary
o 2 game activities per day
o All park fees
o Services of an English-speaking driver/guide, game viewing
drives/cruises throughout
o Round trip charter flight to/from Okavango Delta
o International flight: Maun (MUB) → Cape Town (CPT)o All meet and greet services & transfers
o All arrival and departure transfers
• Meals as indicated in the itinerary
o Botswana (All-inclusive full board including alcoholic & non-alcoholic drinks)
o South Africa (daily breakfast, 1 lunch, 1 dinner)
• All government taxes and levies
What’s Not Included:
• All items of personal nature e.g. telephone call bills, fax/email bills etc.
• Tips and gratuities to driver/guide(s), hotel,
lodges, and camp staff. Budget $2.00 - $4.00
per person per day for lodge and hotel staff,
$1.00 per bag for porters, and $5.00 - $10.00
per person per day for driver/guide(s)
• Airport taxes: if not included in ticket price
• Laundry services
• Spa treatments
• Any other item(s) not included in this itinerary.
• Travel insurance: Will be offered to all
participants & is strongly recommended. Contact us anytime if you want coverage information & quotes before
they are sent out.
*Hotels subject to change based on availability
Join Us!
Price: $4,795.00 (Double Occupancy)
Single Supplement: $1,595.00
*For our solo travelers we will pair you up with
someone of the same sex unless single occupancy is
requested.
Refundable Deposit: $600.00
Go to: https://photoflytravel.org/tour/botswana-
okavango-safari-cape-town-group-tours to sign up!
OR mail check to Local Planet Travel:
Local Planet Travel
105 Swallowtail Pl
Greenville, SC 29607Final Payment - due 90 days prior to departure date. Credit Cards via PayPal or checks are accepted. Pay
online via PayPal here:
Fine Print
Your payment for a reservation on this trip constitutes consent and acknowledgement of all the provisions in the Fine Print below.
Make sure you read the information and contact us with any questions. Hotels are always subject to change based on availability.
Cancellation Fees and Refunds: All cancellations must be in writing. There is a $100.00 administrative fee
for all cancellations. Cancellations made 120 days (December 31st, 2020) or more prior to trip departure date
are fully refundable except for the $100 fee. Cancellations less than 120 days (December 31st, 2020) prior to
trip departure date will receive no refund of full amount due. No refunds on unused portions of the tour. After
airline tickets are issued, airline cancellations are per the airline’s policy and are usually non-refundable and
changeable with a fee plus new ticket price. Travel insurance is highly recommended! Travel insurance will
be offered to all participants. Feel free to contact us anytime if you want coverage information before it is
sent out.
PhotoFly Travel Club
Club Organizer: Steve Juba
978 479 4527
joinus@photoflytravel.com
Members Site: http://www.photoflytravel.org/You can also read
