Reminiscent of the expeditions undertaken by the early explorers, a mobile safari is lead by a professional guide who is accompanied by a small convoy of camp staff and equipment necessary for a self contained journey through the wilderness.
The flexibility of a mobile safari allows travellers access to remote wilderness areas within Botswana's national parks and reserves, far beyond the reaches of a morning game drive out of a lodge. A typical mobile safari itinerary may vary between 6 and 10 nights in length, visiting various different areas within the National Parks and Reserves, spending 2 to 3 nights at any one location.
Long driving distances between camps are typical on a mobile safari, varying between 2 and 6 hours However, it should be noted that these are commonly within the National Parks and Reserves, and are incorporated into daily game drives with a picnic lunch en route. This type of travel allows you to fully appreciate the subtle changes in the environment as you move from one area to the next by land, and learn about the forces which drove these changes and shaped the contrasting landscape around you. The thrill is not only in the destination, but the journey itself.
Botswana is especially fortunate in that the Hospitality and Tourism Association (HATAB), in conjunction with the Department of Wildlife and National Parks have set aside private wilderness sites, for the exclusive use of licensed mobile operators, ensuring travellers a truly exclusive bush experience .
There are a large variety of mobile safaris available, from basic, participation safaris, where guests are required to partake in daily camp chores, to comfortable safaris, with all the comforts of a lodge and a service team to manage the camp. Whatever grade of safari you choose, one thing is certain, camping no longer means having to rough it. Infact, even a budget, participation safari offers a level of comfort that most people would not associate with camping in the wild . There is something magical about the atmosphere created by the soft, warm glow of a paraffin lantern, showering under the starry night sky, and the flicker and warmth of a campfire.
In addition to daily game drives, a variety of activities are generally offered over the course of your itinerary. These include walking trails, boat trips, nights drives, scenic flights, as well as a host of optional activities in Victoria Falls or Livingstone (a popular finishing point for any visit to Botswana).
In contrast to the constant comings and goings of the lodges, a mobile safari offers the traveller a welcome sense of continuity , and an opportunity to get to know your guide and fellow travelling companions, enhancing your experience.
Small groups (usually 6 - 12 guests) ensure that you enjoy exclusivity and personal attention .
Being totally immersed in the wilderness , 24hrs a day, a mobile safari allows you to fully appreciate the true essence of Africa . On safari, there are no alarm clocks, newspapers or mobile phones. Your senses are awakened by the calls of the wild, the smell of first rain, soothing African breezes and breath-taking sunsets.
A mobile safari is the ultimate safari experience in one of Africa's last true wildernesses.
