Botswana 2017 or: the tradition to fly in South Africa 4

Day 1 takes us from Jo’burg into the Kalahari

There is a saying in German: when doing something 3 times it becomes a tradition. Well, I guess with this third trip South we have a tradition started then!

After a day of rest we head off toward Okavango Delta in the North

While previously sticking to South African home turfs, this time we went border crossing towards Botswana and…nearly also to Zimbabwe. Unfortunately the political situation there made us change plans in the last minutes en route. But what a great opportunity to enjoy the nature reserve at Chobe river instead, the area where Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Namibia meet.

Lush green river borders, lots of animals not being shy at all towards the many tourist boats passing quietly – who would have wanted to miss this.

But I am getting ahead of myself because before we even went there we had some great time in the Kalahari (try navigating there when not having GPS or IPad with this ever so lovely pink line to follow) with relaxed game drives and Haina lodge evenings at the bonfire.

From here we enjoyed spectacular views flying North into the Okavango Delta, dry at this time of the year but still stunning. However, it was also shocking to see what damage the recent bush fires have caused and that big animal herds had to travel South towards Maun where the delta was still green.

Heading from Okavango to Kasane as Zimbabwe became a No Go

Returning to South Africa – Botswana will be missed dearly

During our evening talks with the Nxamaseri lodge guys we learn that during high tide the lodge will be situation on an island – and so will be the runway! Transport from runway to lodge will consequently be by boat. If we had not made our mind up already about returning soon, it certainly happened during this chat.

Well, and then we really had to alternate and give Zimbabwe a miss. As said earlier: no regrets here! Chobe river nature reserve is well worth a visit and our accommodation was located perfectly – having missed Vic Falls this time it simply means we need to be back!

After a long day of flying in heavy turbulences and with more than 35 degrees in the cabin (who said this was a holiday trip?) we are happy to land at The Ranch/Polokwane – our last stop within this week. But a simple ‘direct to Brakkies’ is certainly not on the agenda.

Last day: messing around and enjoying Jo’burg views

Now we are back to known fields from our previous trip in April 2016 and Bushpilot course and it does not take long to find some bushstrips where we can “mess around for some T&Gs” along the way back as well as enjoying Jo’burg views from the air again.

Conclusion? It was great! Yet again!
Best thing? Flying, sunset, bushstrip landings, boat trips, animal viewing, hosts, cold red wine (much healthier than warm red wine :-)), bonfires, having clothes washed half way through the week, getting convinced to fly through that bushfire ash kept down by an inversion layer, having the GPS working again after a small electrical failure, chatting with my dear friend Mike and relying on his advise and support along the way…
Worst thing? Having to say good – bye!

Guys – I am afraid I will be back again! Curious to see more? Then click here for a little film of (nearly) the full story!

Interested to plot along next time? Contact us to join a group on a similar tour in spring 2018.