Dear Friends and Fellow Travellers,

Explore with us the latest notes from the road in Zimbabwe and Botswana and our intel after attending “We Are Africa” – the premier trade show on all travel places and things related to exploring Africa. We also dive into sustainability and community empowerment – which has been a pillar of tourism development in Africa long before it became a “thing”.

Xugana Island Lodge, Okavango Delta

On the Road in Botswana

Prior to the We Are Africa trade show I travelled through “Africa’s Eden” – the region along the Zambezi where four countries meet – from Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe through the Kazangula border post into Botswana – with Namibia and Zambia winking across the river. This is home to Chobe National Park, the Savute, the Okavango Delta and the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans – names that conjure up wilderness. Travel between lodges and regions was in small planes whose efficiency would embarrass all major airlines. They arrived within 5 minutes of predicted time, dropped of passengers and with 5 mins we were airbourne to the next airstrip.

Thank you Desert & Delta Safaris for lots of small plane rides, oxbow lake formation lessons from the air, desert sleepouts, the zebra migration and elephants, elephants, elephants – Botswana!

*Leroo la Tau Camp, Makgadikgadi Salt Pans*

The view from my balcony at Leroo la Tau Camp.

Lodges in Africa: the new and the redo

There is always something new on the horizon from lodge owners and investors – whether it is a redo or a completely new camp. The innovation and investment in the wildlife rich parks and conservancies, and in the communities that surround, them is amazing. A few of the latest ….

Angama Amboseli, Kenya: This newly opened sister property to the legendary Angama Mara (think Robert Redford washing hair), is home to the “super tuskers” – elephants whose tusks sweep dry lake beds with the ever-present Kilimanjaro in the background. Replete with photo studio, family tents and the vast Amboseli National Park to explore.

Atzaro Okavango Camp, Botswana: From our friends at African Bush Camps, a luxurious camp in the heart of the Okavango Delta – the perfect addition to their lodges on the Zambezi in Zambia and in Mana Pools, Zimbabwe.

Chale Private Island, Kenya: Sometimes you need to rest after your safari … the Coast of Kenya has plenty of options including Chale – a few minutes from the mainland but a world away.

Camp Kala, Onguma Nature Reserve, Namibia - Redone and revitalized but in the same amazing location on the edge of Etosha overlooking a waterhole teeming with birds and wildlife. Camp Kala extends the beautiful offerings of sister properties The Fort and Onguma Tented Camp.

The Neela, Zanzibar: A luxurious boutique hotel with a rooftop overlooking ancient Stone town. Breathe in the Indian Ocean in the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage Site after your safari in Tanzania.

Testimonials

Kenya Safari

Kenya & Tanzania

Zimbabwe & Multigenerational Safari

We had a fantastic time on our safari in the Maasai Mara, especially the diverse wildlife sightings which included lion, cheetah, elephant, and more, with stunning sunsets! The accommodations were exceptional, and the guides were knowledgeable and friendly. The game, cultural immersion and geography, made this 10-day trip perfect. Thank you for arranging this incredible journey that created lasting memories.
Kenya Safari, January 2024 - SB, Toronto

Our trip was absolutely amazing! Everything went extraordinarily well. All accommodations exceeded expectations with superb service, food, views, and amenities. We saw an incredible array of wildlife, including rare sightings like Omo, one of the world's rarest giraffes. The Serengeti crossings were both exhilarating and disturbing. This truly was the trip of a lifetime. Having visited Africa twice now, we’re eager for our next adventure.
Kenya & Tanzania, KF & JB, Toronto

We had a fantastic time on the Safari, with highlights including memorable moments with lions and cheetahs, abundant elephants, hippos, warthogs, zebras, giraffes, and numerous antelopes. Mana Pools accommodations were top-notch - an extraordinary location, excellent service, delicious food, and friendly staff. Thank you for arranging this wonderful and unforgettable trip.
Zimbabwe Multigen Safari, December 2024 – SJ, Toronto

Destinations on the Rise: Madagascar and Panama

The two things that open up new destinations are air accessibility and, in our opinion, escaping the crowds. Panama and Madagascar are two such places. Panama because it offers what Costa Rica does but without the frenetic crowds, and Madagascar because it fascinates with its lemurs, avenues of giant baobab trees and vibrant culture.

Madagascar now has air connections from Paris on Air France, Neos Air connects through Milan or Rome, and Turkish Airlines links via Istanbul. Additionally, Kenya Airways offers routes through Nairobi, making it possible to combine a visit with a safari in Kenya for those that have the time.

*Courtesy of Time + Tide Tsara Komba, Madagascar*

Panama has multiple flight connection from North America including the old city in Panama combines beautifully with several island propreties off the cost, our favorite is Islas Secas.

Casa Cavada, Islas Secas, Panama Pacific Coast - The new private owners house set in the paradise of 14-island private archipelago reserve off Panama’s Pacific coast. This is an addition to Islas Secas lodge which offers beautiful tented accommodation, perfect for families for those seeking tropical escapes in the winter.

Celebrate your big birthdays in style! This Multigen 80th birthday celebration at the fantastic Islas Secas in November 2023.

Sustainability in Africa

African tourism leads the world in sustainable practices for wildlife and communities. Lodge owners prioritize community empowerment by employing locals, sourcing goods locally, and investing in community projects. Furthermore, through park fees and private contributions, these lodges play a vital role in conserving wild areas and wildlife. This integrated approach exemplifies Africa's leadership in sustainable travel, offering a model for the world to follow, where tourism not only benefits communities but also safeguards the natural environment for future generations.

Where to Next?

Belinda is just back from the UK; Madelyn is in Nicaragua exploring lodges and beach escapes; and I am off to Scotland. More news on all those to come soon.

Thank you for being a part of the Askari Travel family. Call us for your next unforgettable journey.

Muriel

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