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Makgadikgadi Camp - now renamed Camp Kalahari |
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Nestled among the palms and acacias on Hyena Island, Makgadikgadi Camp - now renamed Camp Kalahari, is located on the edge of the salt pans and adjacent to Makgadikgadi National Park. The Makgadikgadi salt pans were once an ancient great lake, now a dried up lunar landscape of great wide open uninhabited spaces and endless horizons. This ancient lake reveals sites of archaeological artifacts, stone age tools and ancient animal bones among the swirling dust devils of the dry season. However when the rain arrive, the landscape transforms into a gigantic lake, attracting a plethora of birds and the annual migration of zebra and wildebeest. Traditionally built using local craftsmen and their knowledge, Makgadikgadi camp is an unique and relaxing environment, combining Western comforts with the flair and colour of Africa. Exploring the Makgadikgadi Pans on 4x4 quad bikes is an exhilarating experience. Close to the Camp are two families of Meerkats - that are semi-habitualised - and make a fascinating study Twin or double bedded meru tents, with ensuite alfresco bathrooms, with flush toilet and shower provide extemley comfortable accommodation. A thatched library, lounge and dining area, allow one to relax and savour the serenity and peace of this enchanted area. Should one feel dusty or hot, go and relax around or in the small dip pool, where refuge from the heat of the day can be sought. At night talk about the days event under the star filled skies whilst sitting around the flickering fire.
For further information, a quotation or to check availability for your dates please email - info@island-safari.com
Kubu IslandResting in the southern tip of Sua Pan, this small rocky outcrop was once an island in the great Lake Makgadikgadi. Stunted baobab trees and the ruins of unexplained stone walls lend a mystical aspect: Kubu Island has a magic that touches every visitor. Central Kalahari Game ReserveThe largest game reserve in the world, the Central Kalahari encompasses some of the hottest and most inhospitable areas in Botswana. In this seemingly limitless expanse of scrub desert and pans, you will encounter animals and plants that are specially adapted to survive in such harsh conditions. Nxai Pans and Baines’ Baobabs Nxai Pan lies to the north of the Makgadikgadi Pans area, on the migration route of the great herds: a wide, grass-covered pan dotted with umbrella thorn trees. With its bountiful wildlife, the area provides excellent game viewing opportunities. Just to the east of Kudiakam Pan, and south of Nxai Pan, is an impressive group of baobab trees, standing on the pioneers’ route to the swamps of the Okavango Delta. First painted by Thomas Baines, and inscribed with his name on 22nd May 1862, the trees are known as Baines’ Baobabs. Desert Mobile SafarisIn addition to our regular excursions to explore the Makgadikgadi Pans, by prior arrangement we can arrange longer expeditions into the Kalahari Desert. For the intrepid visitor we offer the prospect of profound engagement with the uncompromising beauty of the Kalahari. On this six night camping safari you will traverse the Makgadikgadi Pans, visit enigmatic Kubu Island; and enter the largest conservation area in Africa - the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. Deception Pan, Xaka, Piper Pans, Molapo, and many nameless places. The safari transcends any organised cultural experience. You will gain a direct insight into the subtle ecology of the apparently pitiless and unchanging desert. Perhaps you may even come to empathise with the "first people" who lived in the Kalahari - insignificant in the infinite thirstland, yet happily and marvellously alive. This is the essential Kalahari. And few people are better qualified to guide your desert odyssey than your host, Reinhold Sumerauer. He is an Honorary Game Warden of Botswana's Department of Wildlife and National Parks, who has spent eight years working with local people to conserve this captivating land.
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