Ollie Porote recently led a Great Wilderness Journey, starting off in Zambia at Toka Leya and then moving into Botswana. This is what he had to say:
At Toka Leya my guests enjoyed an afternoon boat cruise on the mighty Zambezi River before having pre-dinner drinks and the full safari briefing, followed by a delicious dinner. The highlight was definitely the spectacular view and tour of the Victoria Falls.
The next morning we flew to Botswana where we had a great lunchtime boat cruise along the Chobe River. This was highlighted by water birds, including the endangered African skimmer and large numbers of African spoonbill. We encountered large herds of elephant that continuously arrived at the river for a drink.
Following a short and scenic flight to the Linyanti Concession, we embarked on an afternoon game drive while we made our way to camp. As we were about to reach camp, we stopped to observe a journey of giraffe. We suddenly heard a frantic squirrel alarm call not far off, so we went to investigate…and found two leopard, most likely a courting pair. The female was quite shy and slinked off into the bush and out of sight.
We then arrived at the Linyanti Discoverer Camp. This area proved to be very productive as we also encountered the LTC Pride of lion, which currently have some cubs that are around three months old. While viewing the young cubs, the dominant male announced his presence by letting out a thunderous roar. As it was early morning, the light was fantastic for photography and all we all indulged in taking some excellent pictures.
Our next stop on the trip was the Khwai Discoverer Camp. We took the opportunity to do a birding walk and were rewarded with a great sighting of greater-painted snipe. On the second morning at this camp, we were awoken by the calls of lion very close by, so we set off quickly in search of the felines. We soon found their fresh tracks – they clearly were following a large herd of buffalo. After a quick scan, we located the lions. We watched for about ten minutes when the lions decided not to pursue the large herd of bovines and began moving off.
The following day we went to Xigera which is in the heart of the Delta. During our stay here, we explored the numerous channels of the Okavango by mokoro and motor boat. Lady Luck was still on our side as we had a great sighting of Pel’s fishing-owl. That evening our guests were celebrating their anniversary and were given a private dinner on the star deck… a great ending of a spectacular safari.
Till next time
Ollie Porote
The Great Wilderness Journey in Botswana
African Safaris Report courtesy of Wilderness Safaris
