When: 1 May - 13 May 2014
Where: Namibia, Botswana, Victoria Falls - AFRICA
Please
come and join Australian professional photographers Mark Rayner and
Michael Snedic on an amazing photography journey of a lifetime through
Africa.
What makes this Photographic safari so special?
1 - Two professional photographers leading you throughout your photographic journey of Africa from start to finish. 1 Pro to 7 guests.
2 - Journey by air means less time travelling and more time on safari and learning from the pros. No long dusty drives for hours, instead view the incredible landscapes of Africa from the air and on the ground taking photo's on safari.
3 - Stay at remote boutique, luxury lodges on private concessions away from the crowds. Enjoy Africa's wildlife and wilderness all to yourself.
4 - Private safari vehicles just for the photographic group on some of Africa's greatest private concessions.
5 - Outstanding professional local guides bringing the African bush to life as they interpret and teach you all about the wildlife and wilderness.
6 - Why is the game viewing better in a Private Reserves? - It’s private! No cars of other tourists. - Safari vehicles can go off road. In a national park you will be limited to animals visible from the main roads. - The best and most knowledgeable rangers in the business work at the private game reserves. - Rangers are not restricted to national park hours, which means that they can go on night drives. - It also means that you can stay as long as you want on a sighting! Elevated, open-top safari vehicles give you the best view possible so you can get the perfect photo. - Rangers can lead walking safaris so that you can get that perfect photo.
7 - All inclusive on safari. The only additional expenses you will have are lunch and evening meals in Windhoek and Victoria Falls, drinks in Windhoek and Victoria Falls, any optional activities in Victoria Falls, guides tips, travel insruance, any personal shopping and Zimbabwe visa of US$30.
8 - So much more is included in the Windhoek City Tour, guided Vic Falls walking tour, Zambezi Sunset Cruise and dinner on your last night at the Boma.
9 - Off the shelf unique journey just for Trekabout.
10 - It will be an awesome once in a lifetime journey.
1 - Two professional photographers leading you throughout your photographic journey of Africa from start to finish. 1 Pro to 7 guests.
2 - Journey by air means less time travelling and more time on safari and learning from the pros. No long dusty drives for hours, instead view the incredible landscapes of Africa from the air and on the ground taking photo's on safari.
3 - Stay at remote boutique, luxury lodges on private concessions away from the crowds. Enjoy Africa's wildlife and wilderness all to yourself.
4 - Private safari vehicles just for the photographic group on some of Africa's greatest private concessions.
5 - Outstanding professional local guides bringing the African bush to life as they interpret and teach you all about the wildlife and wilderness.
6 - Why is the game viewing better in a Private Reserves? - It’s private! No cars of other tourists. - Safari vehicles can go off road. In a national park you will be limited to animals visible from the main roads. - The best and most knowledgeable rangers in the business work at the private game reserves. - Rangers are not restricted to national park hours, which means that they can go on night drives. - It also means that you can stay as long as you want on a sighting! Elevated, open-top safari vehicles give you the best view possible so you can get the perfect photo. - Rangers can lead walking safaris so that you can get that perfect photo.
7 - All inclusive on safari. The only additional expenses you will have are lunch and evening meals in Windhoek and Victoria Falls, drinks in Windhoek and Victoria Falls, any optional activities in Victoria Falls, guides tips, travel insruance, any personal shopping and Zimbabwe visa of US$30.
8 - So much more is included in the Windhoek City Tour, guided Vic Falls walking tour, Zambezi Sunset Cruise and dinner on your last night at the Boma.
9 - Off the shelf unique journey just for Trekabout.
10 - It will be an awesome once in a lifetime journey.
A word from our strategic partner, Encompass Africa
It’s all about you
Our passion is creating holidays that are exactly right for you, the independent-minded, smart and savvy traveller who values unrivalled expertise, trusted advice, first hand on-the-ground knowledge and personal service.
We handpick every extraordinary aspect of our journeys. Then we handcraft flexible, imaginative and seamless itineraries and execute them flawlessly. Our experience delivers you insider access through resident experts who reveal the secrets of each destination. Our uncompromising attention to detail and exceptional personalised service is our key ingredient.
We only specialise in Africa and nothing else. Africa is what our lives are all about and it's still my home. To ensure the highest standard of service and unsurpassed knowledge, we employ the most experienced and passionate safari specialists who are African, been past guides, lived, worked and travelled to all of the exciting destinations in Africa we recommend.
Aside from expert advice, personal service and great value for money, Encompass Africa offers peace of mind to all travellers. We are a member of Australia's Travel Compensation Fund, ATTA (Advancing Tourism to Africa) and a fully licensed Australian based tour operator. We pride ourselves on good business practices and are part of a responsible community of the leading companies in African tourism. We guarantee you 24/7 contact in Australia and whilst travelling with us in Africa. Your safety is at the heart of our business and we love chatting about Africa not matter what the time of day.
Finally we like to ensure our guests enjoy an extraordinary journey to Africa rather than an ordinary holiday at an extraordinary price.
We personally want you to share with you what it really means to experience a true safari adventure in a continent that for me is the most exciting and rewarding on earth.
It’s all about you
Our passion is creating holidays that are exactly right for you, the independent-minded, smart and savvy traveller who values unrivalled expertise, trusted advice, first hand on-the-ground knowledge and personal service.
We handpick every extraordinary aspect of our journeys. Then we handcraft flexible, imaginative and seamless itineraries and execute them flawlessly. Our experience delivers you insider access through resident experts who reveal the secrets of each destination. Our uncompromising attention to detail and exceptional personalised service is our key ingredient.
We only specialise in Africa and nothing else. Africa is what our lives are all about and it's still my home. To ensure the highest standard of service and unsurpassed knowledge, we employ the most experienced and passionate safari specialists who are African, been past guides, lived, worked and travelled to all of the exciting destinations in Africa we recommend.
Aside from expert advice, personal service and great value for money, Encompass Africa offers peace of mind to all travellers. We are a member of Australia's Travel Compensation Fund, ATTA (Advancing Tourism to Africa) and a fully licensed Australian based tour operator. We pride ourselves on good business practices and are part of a responsible community of the leading companies in African tourism. We guarantee you 24/7 contact in Australia and whilst travelling with us in Africa. Your safety is at the heart of our business and we love chatting about Africa not matter what the time of day.
Finally we like to ensure our guests enjoy an extraordinary journey to Africa rather than an ordinary holiday at an extraordinary price.
We personally want you to share with you what it really means to experience a true safari adventure in a continent that for me is the most exciting and rewarding on earth.
Itinerary and Program of Events
Day 1 Thursday 1st May 2014
Make your way to Windhoek Namibia, the starting point for this amazing workshop.
Encompass Africa can arrange all your required international and regional flights from Australia's capital cities using our preferred wholesale and special rates with airlines getting you to the start of the photographic safari.
Please contact Encompass Africa if you require help arranging your international and regional flights.
On arrival into Hosea Kutako Airport, Windhoek Namibia it's a warm welcome to Africa! Clear customs and immigration (no visa required for Australian passport holders), collect you luggage and proceed to the arrivals hall.
In the arrivals you will be warmly welcomed with a big African smile by your drivers and assisted to the awaiting private vehicle/s. Transfer by road (45mins) to your accommodation located in Windhoek.
On arrival at Hotel Pension Palmquell, located a mere ten minute drive from the centre of town, check in and spend 1 night in guest rooms with breakfast included.
This afternoon you will enjoy a private guided Windhoek City Tour taking in the city's highlights and photographing some city street scenes and the old German style buildings under the expert guidance of Mark and Michael.
You'll be exposed to unique architecture and also have your first opportunity to try your hand at street photography in Africa.
Return to Hotel Pension Palmquell for an evening meal together either indoors or outdoors (own expense) and perhaps enjoy a few famous Windhoek Lagers and chat about the photographic safari, get to know your fellow photographers and get ready for the trip of a lifetime.
Make your way to Windhoek Namibia, the starting point for this amazing workshop.
Encompass Africa can arrange all your required international and regional flights from Australia's capital cities using our preferred wholesale and special rates with airlines getting you to the start of the photographic safari.
Please contact Encompass Africa if you require help arranging your international and regional flights.
On arrival into Hosea Kutako Airport, Windhoek Namibia it's a warm welcome to Africa! Clear customs and immigration (no visa required for Australian passport holders), collect you luggage and proceed to the arrivals hall.
In the arrivals you will be warmly welcomed with a big African smile by your drivers and assisted to the awaiting private vehicle/s. Transfer by road (45mins) to your accommodation located in Windhoek.
On arrival at Hotel Pension Palmquell, located a mere ten minute drive from the centre of town, check in and spend 1 night in guest rooms with breakfast included.
This afternoon you will enjoy a private guided Windhoek City Tour taking in the city's highlights and photographing some city street scenes and the old German style buildings under the expert guidance of Mark and Michael.
You'll be exposed to unique architecture and also have your first opportunity to try your hand at street photography in Africa.
Return to Hotel Pension Palmquell for an evening meal together either indoors or outdoors (own expense) and perhaps enjoy a few famous Windhoek Lagers and chat about the photographic safari, get to know your fellow photographers and get ready for the trip of a lifetime.
WINDHOEK is the capital city of Namibia and lies in a large valley that is surrounded by four mountain ranges. It's a very pleasant city and its centre is characterised by a proliferation of German style buildings, a lasting reminder of Namibia's early colonial history. Early buildings such as the Alte Feste (old fort), Christuskirche and Tintenpalast (the parliament buildings) are of particular historical interest. In a wonderful display of irony, the Alte Feste Fort, once the bastion of German colonialism, now houses the National Museum which places particular emphasis on the freedom struggle and Namibian independence, right in front of the fort is the iconic Reiterdenkmal (equestrian memorial). Other notable buildings in Windhoek include St Mary's Cathedral and the Turnhalle Building. During the day the city centre has a European cafe culture, German cuisine dominates, but Namibian influence can be found in the quantity and quality of meat on offer, (vegetarians be warned, Namibia is carnivorous country!) Saying that, the streets are choc-a- bloc with people of all ages and cultures, all bearing a wonderful sense of pride, hope and ambition.HOTEL PENSION PALMQUELL is located a mere five-minute drive from two shopping centres and ten minutes from the City, nevertheless located in the restful surroundings of one of the oldest and most sought-after residential areas in town. Relax in garden, at the swimming pool, in the lounge & wine bar or the restaurant. 16 spacious and immaculate rooms in an up-market ambience are suited for holidaymakers and businessmen alike. The informal atmosphere and Austrian hospitality are particularly appreciated by guests.
Day 2 Friday 2nd May 2014
After breakfast, it's time to check out. Meet your drivers in reception at the agreed time confirmed the evening before and transfer in private vehicles to Eros airport.
On arrival at Eros Airport you will be met by your private pilot and transferred by private light aircraft (Grand Caravan C208) to Kulala Desert Lodge located in the Namib Desert.
You will travel in two Cessna Grand Caravans 8 people per plane allowing you to carry 20kgs of luggage each. Flying Time Windhoek to Geluk airstrip 1 hour
On arrival at the airstrip you will be met by Kulala Desert Lodge guides and transferred the short distance to Kulala Desert Lodge in your 4x4 safari vehicles.
On arrival spend the next night in chalet rooms with all meals, activities, park fees and drinks (excluding premium import brands) included. In the afternoon enjoy a nature drive in the private reserve with evening sundowners with Mark and Michael presenting a lesson on sunset landscapes.
Day Three Saturday 3rd May 2014
Early morning you will enjoy a guided excursion to the spectacular dunes of Sossusvlei through a private gate on the Tsauchab River to enjoy Sossusvlei at sunrise, while the temperature is still mild and when the dune contrasts are at their best. World-famous Sossusvlei is an enormous clay pan, flanked by the famous red sand dunes that stand out starkly against the blue sky.
These dunes have developed over millions of years, the wind continuously transforming the contours of this red sand sea. The 'vlei' itself only fills after rare heavy rainfall when, in a complete turn-around, it becomes a spectacular turquoise lake.
You will travel in your 4x4 safari vehicles with your specially trained guides who will share all his knowledge of the area, animals, plant life and much more with you.
Enjoy the changing colours, for the more energetic you will have the opportunity to climb to the upper ridge of one of the sand dunes, perhaps "Big Daddy", the world's most photographed dune.
Dead Vlei is also a must visit. You will spend the morning photographing the amazing scenery, wildlife and landscape with the expert guidance of Mark and Michael on hand.
Return to Kuala Desert Lodge lodge for brunch before checking out and departing by road in 4x4s to Wolwedans Dune Lodge which forms part of the Wolwedans Collection located in the private Namib Rand Nature Reserve.
On arrival at Wolwedans Dune Lodge, check in and spend 2 nights in luxury rooms with all meals, local drinks and safari activities included.
NamibRand Nature Reserve has recently been approved as a "Gold Tier" International Dark Sky Reserve. This is the place to get some great sky trail photo's.
Day Four Sunday 4th May 2014
On safari. With your guides and vehicles, you can explore anywhere the wildlife takes you! The day's activities will be focused on photography classes with Mark and Michael.
If you're up to it we'll hit the dunes again for sky trails and light painting.
After breakfast, it's time to check out. Meet your drivers in reception at the agreed time confirmed the evening before and transfer in private vehicles to Eros airport.
On arrival at Eros Airport you will be met by your private pilot and transferred by private light aircraft (Grand Caravan C208) to Kulala Desert Lodge located in the Namib Desert.
You will travel in two Cessna Grand Caravans 8 people per plane allowing you to carry 20kgs of luggage each. Flying Time Windhoek to Geluk airstrip 1 hour
On arrival at the airstrip you will be met by Kulala Desert Lodge guides and transferred the short distance to Kulala Desert Lodge in your 4x4 safari vehicles.
On arrival spend the next night in chalet rooms with all meals, activities, park fees and drinks (excluding premium import brands) included. In the afternoon enjoy a nature drive in the private reserve with evening sundowners with Mark and Michael presenting a lesson on sunset landscapes.
Day Three Saturday 3rd May 2014
Early morning you will enjoy a guided excursion to the spectacular dunes of Sossusvlei through a private gate on the Tsauchab River to enjoy Sossusvlei at sunrise, while the temperature is still mild and when the dune contrasts are at their best. World-famous Sossusvlei is an enormous clay pan, flanked by the famous red sand dunes that stand out starkly against the blue sky.
These dunes have developed over millions of years, the wind continuously transforming the contours of this red sand sea. The 'vlei' itself only fills after rare heavy rainfall when, in a complete turn-around, it becomes a spectacular turquoise lake.
You will travel in your 4x4 safari vehicles with your specially trained guides who will share all his knowledge of the area, animals, plant life and much more with you.
Enjoy the changing colours, for the more energetic you will have the opportunity to climb to the upper ridge of one of the sand dunes, perhaps "Big Daddy", the world's most photographed dune.
Dead Vlei is also a must visit. You will spend the morning photographing the amazing scenery, wildlife and landscape with the expert guidance of Mark and Michael on hand.
Return to Kuala Desert Lodge lodge for brunch before checking out and departing by road in 4x4s to Wolwedans Dune Lodge which forms part of the Wolwedans Collection located in the private Namib Rand Nature Reserve.
On arrival at Wolwedans Dune Lodge, check in and spend 2 nights in luxury rooms with all meals, local drinks and safari activities included.
NamibRand Nature Reserve has recently been approved as a "Gold Tier" International Dark Sky Reserve. This is the place to get some great sky trail photo's.
Day Four Sunday 4th May 2014
On safari. With your guides and vehicles, you can explore anywhere the wildlife takes you! The day's activities will be focused on photography classes with Mark and Michael.
If you're up to it we'll hit the dunes again for sky trails and light painting.
NAMIB DESERT is one of the largest private reserves in Southern Africa. Situated in the very heart of the pristine reserve, is Wolwedans itself, taking its name from the African - “where the wolves dance”. Accompanied by experienced local guides, activities during your stay allow you to explore the many faces of this desert habitat with its diverse fauna and flora - on foot, by Land Rover or even by balloon. This is one of the last great wilderness areas in Namibia and provides the perfect introduction to the real desert. Nestled amidst red dunes and set against a backdrop of unparalleled beauty, Wolwedans provides the perfect base from which to explore vast stretches of awe-inspiring nature and learn about an exciting variety of desert creatures.
KULALA DESERT LODGE is located within the arid Namib Desert on the 37 000-hectare private Kulala Wilderness Reserve, and is closest to the iconic dunes of the Sossusvlei. Luxury accommodation is in thatched and canvas "kulalas" ("to sleep" in Oshiwambo) with ensuite bathrooms. Each unit is built on a wooden platform to catch the cooling breezes and has a deck on the flat rooftop where bedrolls are placed for guests to sleep under the stars. Facilities include lounge, bar, dining area, plunge pool, wrap-around verandah overlooking the waterhole that attracts a number of local wildlife (gemsbok, springbok, ostrich and jackal). Activities revolve around early morning guided nature drives to the spectacular dunes of Sossusvlei through the private gate on the Tsauchab River. World-famous Sossusvlei is an enormous clay pan, flanked by the famous sand dunes that stand out starkly against the blue sky and flush red in the early morning sun. Nature drives and walks are also offered through the private Kulala Wilderness Reserve to take in those incredible views and to catch a glimpse of the denizens of the desert. Another option, at an extra cost, is early morning ballooning, beginning at first light offering a truly unique experience to soar silently above the magnificent sand dunes and desert, with a champagne breakfast being served at your landing site. Finally, camel rides are offered, where guests can enjoy a leisurely walk on 'ships of the desert' through the Reserve and learn about their adaptation to desert environments.
WOLWEDANS DUNE LODGE is perched on top of a dune plateau, overlooking panoramic vistas in all directions and capturing the beauty of the desert in a most memorable way. Building style is a combination of wooden structures and canvas blinds, opening up to the desert beyond. The lodge reflects the ambience of a tented camp, but provides the comfort and protection of a permanent building. Each of the nine spacious chalets with en-suite bathrooms sports a private verandah, which connects you to vast stretches of untouched sand. Sleeping with your canvas blinds open is just like sleeping under the stars. The main complex - which has completely been rebuilt during 2003 - consists of two lounges, a number of sundowner decks, a fireplace, a tea deck, a library, the wine cellar and two dining rooms. The lodge also has a swimming pool, which is suspended above the sand. All communal areas of the lodge open out onto decks with superb views.
Day Five Monday 5th May 2014
After breakfast, it's time to check out and bid the team at Wolwedans goodbye. Meet your guide in reception at the agreed time. You will be transferred to the airstrip in time to catch your sole use private charter flight to Maun via Windhoek to clear Namibian customs and immigration.
On arrival into Maun, disembark clear customs and immigration (no visa required for Australian passport holders) and collect your bags. In the arrivals hall you will be met by our representative and assisted onto your light aircraft transfers to the heart of the Okavango Delta.
This is a wonderful low level scenic flight over the delta so have your cameras ready and experience the Delta from above making out the flood plains, deep water channels, islands and wildlife scattered below.
Flying time Geluk Eros 1hour Eros Maun 2h35mins Maun Kwara 30mins
On arrival at Kwara airstrip you will be met by your expert guides and trackers from Kwara Camp. Transfer game viewing along the way to Kwara Camp, check in and spend 3 nights in a tented room with local drinks, meals, laundry and safari activities included.
After afternoon tea you will experience your first game drive in big game country. After a quick briefing by your guiding team depart in completely open 4x4 land cruisers special built for photographers needs with no roof, support poles and 360 degrees viewing.
Your guides are the best in the game along with your expert trackers. Kwando guides know exactly how to look after the photographic requirements of photographers and many are outstanding and published photographers themselves. Kwando also run an annual photographic competition so you might win a return trip with your best shot!
The drive will continue into the night returning to camp under spot light looking out for Africa's nocturnal creatures. Enjoy dinner with your guides and chat about the evenings sightings.
Through out your game viewing activities Mark and Michael will be on hand tutoring and assisting with your wildlife photography.
Day 6 and 7 Tuesday 6th and Wednesday 7th May 2014
The Delta offers exceptional wildlife viewing, beautiful landscapes and a magical remoteness not matched anywhere else in Africa.
Immerse yourself in the wilderness with your guide and camera and prepare to watch life unfold before you during your morning and afternoon/evening game viewing activities.
Activities include game drives,short nature walks and Mokoro safaris unique to the Okavango Delta.
These two days will expose you to a variety of wildlife photography opportunities. Michael and Mark will be on hand offering advice on composition and the correct settings for shooting your best. Animals at rest or in flight, you'll have the best advice no matter what.
After breakfast, it's time to check out and bid the team at Wolwedans goodbye. Meet your guide in reception at the agreed time. You will be transferred to the airstrip in time to catch your sole use private charter flight to Maun via Windhoek to clear Namibian customs and immigration.
On arrival into Maun, disembark clear customs and immigration (no visa required for Australian passport holders) and collect your bags. In the arrivals hall you will be met by our representative and assisted onto your light aircraft transfers to the heart of the Okavango Delta.
This is a wonderful low level scenic flight over the delta so have your cameras ready and experience the Delta from above making out the flood plains, deep water channels, islands and wildlife scattered below.
Flying time Geluk Eros 1hour Eros Maun 2h35mins Maun Kwara 30mins
On arrival at Kwara airstrip you will be met by your expert guides and trackers from Kwara Camp. Transfer game viewing along the way to Kwara Camp, check in and spend 3 nights in a tented room with local drinks, meals, laundry and safari activities included.
After afternoon tea you will experience your first game drive in big game country. After a quick briefing by your guiding team depart in completely open 4x4 land cruisers special built for photographers needs with no roof, support poles and 360 degrees viewing.
Your guides are the best in the game along with your expert trackers. Kwando guides know exactly how to look after the photographic requirements of photographers and many are outstanding and published photographers themselves. Kwando also run an annual photographic competition so you might win a return trip with your best shot!
The drive will continue into the night returning to camp under spot light looking out for Africa's nocturnal creatures. Enjoy dinner with your guides and chat about the evenings sightings.
Through out your game viewing activities Mark and Michael will be on hand tutoring and assisting with your wildlife photography.
Day 6 and 7 Tuesday 6th and Wednesday 7th May 2014
The Delta offers exceptional wildlife viewing, beautiful landscapes and a magical remoteness not matched anywhere else in Africa.
Immerse yourself in the wilderness with your guide and camera and prepare to watch life unfold before you during your morning and afternoon/evening game viewing activities.
Activities include game drives,short nature walks and Mokoro safaris unique to the Okavango Delta.
These two days will expose you to a variety of wildlife photography opportunities. Michael and Mark will be on hand offering advice on composition and the correct settings for shooting your best. Animals at rest or in flight, you'll have the best advice no matter what.
OKAVANGO DELTA is one of the world’s largest inland water systems. Its environment supports large numbers of animal populations that are otherwise rare, such as crocodile, red lechwe, sitatunga, elephant, wild dogs, buffalo, wattled crane as well as the other more common mammals and bird life. It is here predator action is outstanding with lions hunting by day and the great lion versus buffalo conflicts. The best time for game viewing in the delta is during the May-October period, as the animal life is concentrated along the flooded areas and the vegetation has dried out.
KWARA CAMP is a gem, one of our favourites and hugely popular among wildlife photographers. It boasts a stunning setting that overlooks a secluded lagoon in the northern Okavango Delta. This region offers a contrasting experience, as its location allows access to the permanent waterways of the Delta as well as expansive dry land areas, admired for their quality game viewing, particularly predator action. Kwara accommodates a maximum of 16 guests in eight traditionally styled tents on raised decks, each offering superb views of the lagoon. Towering African ebony and mangosteen trees ensure that the camp is always cool while the hundreds of birds add to the feeling of serenity in one of the Okavango's best kept secrets. Kwara offers, within the exclusive concession in which it is located, a wide variety of activities. In addition to game drives, both day and night, the camp offers game walks and mokoro trips, as well as power boating and fishing (spinning equipment is provided but fly fisherman need to bring their own equipment). Expect friendly service, exceptional guiding and an emphasis on wildlife and wilderness.
Day 8 Thursday 8th May 2014.
After breakfast, it's time to check out and bid the camp team farewell before transferring to the airstrip.
Your guide will drop you off in time to catch your light aircraft flight to the Linyanti Wetlands one of the most game rich areas in Africa.
Flying time Kwara - Lebala 30mins
On arrival at Kwando Linyanti airstrip, disembark and collect your bags. You'll be met by your expert guides and trackers and transferred to camp game viewing, along the way. Cameras at the ready as this is Africa.
An amazing sight could be just around the corner!
Arrive, check in and spend 3 nights at Lebala Camp in luxury tented rooms with local drinks, meals, laundry and safari activities included.
After Afternoon tea depart camp on your first game drive in the Linyanti region with your guides and trackers.
This area is renowned for it's concentration of wildlife so get set to be astounded.
Day 9 and 10 Friday 9th and Saturday 10th May 2014.
Morning and afternoon game viewing safaris in this game rich region of Botswana with your own guide and tracker to ensure the ultimate wildlife experiences that you can capture through the lens.
We will be running image critique and review sessions in the evenings discussing your sightings and photos.
After breakfast, it's time to check out and bid the camp team farewell before transferring to the airstrip.
Your guide will drop you off in time to catch your light aircraft flight to the Linyanti Wetlands one of the most game rich areas in Africa.
Flying time Kwara - Lebala 30mins
On arrival at Kwando Linyanti airstrip, disembark and collect your bags. You'll be met by your expert guides and trackers and transferred to camp game viewing, along the way. Cameras at the ready as this is Africa.
An amazing sight could be just around the corner!
Arrive, check in and spend 3 nights at Lebala Camp in luxury tented rooms with local drinks, meals, laundry and safari activities included.
After Afternoon tea depart camp on your first game drive in the Linyanti region with your guides and trackers.
This area is renowned for it's concentration of wildlife so get set to be astounded.
Day 9 and 10 Friday 9th and Saturday 10th May 2014.
Morning and afternoon game viewing safaris in this game rich region of Botswana with your own guide and tracker to ensure the ultimate wildlife experiences that you can capture through the lens.
We will be running image critique and review sessions in the evenings discussing your sightings and photos.
To the north of the Okavango Delta lies the LINYANTI WILDLIFE RESERVE, a 125 000 hectares area of pristine wilderness and Botswana’s most underrated wildlife area. Fed by the Kwando River, the Linyanti Swamp is the heart of the reserve and is the attraction for the tens of thousands of elephants, one of Africa’s largest Elephant populations, and other animals that concentrate during the dry season. Across the water is Namibia’s Caprivi Strip and to the east is the Chobe National Park.
KWANDO LEBALA CAMP is situated in the south of the Kwando concession, adjacent to the headwaters of the Linyanti marshes that form the boundary between Botswana and Namibia. The southerly flowing Kwando river disappears into the vast marshland before emerging as the Linyanti river. The triangle formed by this vast wetland is home to the Mamili National Park in Namibia. This lovely remote little safari camp offers a relaxed atmosphere. Raised tents on teak decks are well spaced out and provide all the creature comforts for an authentic bush camp. The central area is reached by small footbridge over a lily-filled waterway and boasts large lounge, well stocked bar, curio shop and raised viewing deck. Other features include a stunning fire pit with director’s chairs for morning and afternoon tea before venturing out on safari. You will also find a plunge pool with sunloungers, perfect to cool off in the heat of the day.
Day 11 Sunday 11th May 2014.
After your morning safari activity and breakfast, it's time to pack up, bid the camp team goodbye and transfer with your guide back to the airstrip. On arrival at the airstrip, catch a light aircraft flight to Kasane Airport.
At Kasane Airport, disembark and collect your bags. Proceed to the arrivals hall where you will meet our driver who will transfer you across the border into Zimbabwe (Visa required for Australian passport holders. Can be obtained on arrival for US$30) and onward to Victoria Falls. (Transfer takes approx 2 hours depending on border formalities).
On arrival at Ilala Lodge, check in and spend 2 nights in standard rooms with breakfast included.
Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure at the lodge. Late afternoon you will be picked up and transferred to the Zambezi River to enjoy a Sunset Cruise on the upper Zambezi River with canapes, drinks, wildlife and one amazing sunset included.
Day 12 Monday 12th May 2014.
After breakfast you will be met by your Victoria Falls guide and enjoy a morning guided tour of Victoria Falls including park entry fees.
Spend time capturing this Natural Wonder of the world with your camera and new skills Mark and Michael have passed onto you.
In the afternoon time is yours to relax or explore one of Africa's great African craft markets or enjoy high tea at the famous Victoria Falls Hotel. Why not get adventurous and try a helicopter flight, microlight flight, zip line or bungee jump?
Tonight is going to be a special one. Your last supper together and there is no better place in Africa to spend it than the famous Boma Restaurant, Place of Eating.
Enjoy a wonderful dinner together including transfer to the restaurant, dinner, African drumming and music, dancing and even a witch doctor to read your future as to when you will return to Africa. The menu includes Impala Knuckle, baby crocodile, Warthog and so much more. After dinner transfer to Ilala Lodge.
Day 13 Tuesday 13th May 2014.
After breakfast, check out and be ready to meet our driver at the agreed time.
Transfer by road to the Victoria Falls Airport in time to check in and catch your onward flight home to Australia. Contact Encompass Africa if you would like them to add on any other arrangements for you whilst in Afirca.
After your morning safari activity and breakfast, it's time to pack up, bid the camp team goodbye and transfer with your guide back to the airstrip. On arrival at the airstrip, catch a light aircraft flight to Kasane Airport.
At Kasane Airport, disembark and collect your bags. Proceed to the arrivals hall where you will meet our driver who will transfer you across the border into Zimbabwe (Visa required for Australian passport holders. Can be obtained on arrival for US$30) and onward to Victoria Falls. (Transfer takes approx 2 hours depending on border formalities).
On arrival at Ilala Lodge, check in and spend 2 nights in standard rooms with breakfast included.
Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure at the lodge. Late afternoon you will be picked up and transferred to the Zambezi River to enjoy a Sunset Cruise on the upper Zambezi River with canapes, drinks, wildlife and one amazing sunset included.
Day 12 Monday 12th May 2014.
After breakfast you will be met by your Victoria Falls guide and enjoy a morning guided tour of Victoria Falls including park entry fees.
Spend time capturing this Natural Wonder of the world with your camera and new skills Mark and Michael have passed onto you.
In the afternoon time is yours to relax or explore one of Africa's great African craft markets or enjoy high tea at the famous Victoria Falls Hotel. Why not get adventurous and try a helicopter flight, microlight flight, zip line or bungee jump?
Tonight is going to be a special one. Your last supper together and there is no better place in Africa to spend it than the famous Boma Restaurant, Place of Eating.
Enjoy a wonderful dinner together including transfer to the restaurant, dinner, African drumming and music, dancing and even a witch doctor to read your future as to when you will return to Africa. The menu includes Impala Knuckle, baby crocodile, Warthog and so much more. After dinner transfer to Ilala Lodge.
Day 13 Tuesday 13th May 2014.
After breakfast, check out and be ready to meet our driver at the agreed time.
Transfer by road to the Victoria Falls Airport in time to check in and catch your onward flight home to Australia. Contact Encompass Africa if you would like them to add on any other arrangements for you whilst in Afirca.
VICTORIA FALLS the town is set on the southern bank of the Zambezi River, at the western end of the Victoria Falls themselves. The settlement began in 1901 when the possibility of using the waterfall for hydro-electric power was explored. The town then expanded as the railway line reached the Falls, shortly before the Victoria Falls Bridge was opened in April 1905, connecting Zimbabwe to what is now Zambia. Victoria Falls is the principal tourism centre for the magnificent Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the world and the largest sheet of falling water on earth, a spellbinding and mesmerising spectacle. The sheer mass of water cascading down the 100 metre drop across nearly 2 kilometres makes a thunderous roar and creates a magnificent spray of water that can be seen for miles - hence the local name 'mosi oa tunya' meaning 'the smoke that thunders'.
ILALA LODGE is an elegant lodge with decor evoking an era of early adventure. It is the closest accommodation to the mighty Victoria Falls as well as the town centre. The National Park borders the front of the property and wild animals often graze on the lodge lawns with the spray of the falls in the background. Rooms are well appointed with ensuite bathroom, air-conditioning, railway sleeper teak furnishings and patio doors leading onto either open lawn or a balcony. Other facilities include swimming pool, bar, lounge and Palm Restaurant.
