What to expect on safari
Going on a safari is an unforgettable adventure. While you will be treated like royalty, true luxury lies in the pristine landscapes, a different kind of silence and an ancient understanding of humankind’s relationship to the land.
A variety of experiences
No two outings are the sameMost of our camps are located on private concessions, giving you exclusive access to some of the most precious biomes in Africa. These diverse environments give rise to a rich and varied safari ranging from game drives, walking safaris to mokoro safaris and birding. Given that wild animals move to their own rhythm, you may not see everything on your list, but this is the joy of an authentic safari.
Close encounters
Learn the art of spottingWhen on a driving safari, our guides will get you as close to the animals as possible, while keeping you safe. All of our vehicles are open and it’s not uncommon for animals to come up really close for a better look. When in the bush, it’s key to be focused and alert. Spotting animals comes with practice and your guide will teach you how to scan the landscape for animals in the trees and tall grass.
Pristine and untamed environments
Your private slice of paradiseThe global population is estimated to be 7.7 billion people, highlighting just how rare it is to savour an untouched piece of earth. Watching the sun climb into the sky, savouring the scent of the bush and hearing the sounds of an elephant chewing on a branch are experiences that touch the soul. To safeguard these landscapes, each of our locations has an extremely low footprint and are very well protected.
New friendships and broader perspectives
A safari is more than just animalsAfricans are known for their warmth and hospitality and our lodge staff and tour guides are no exception. They appreciate that for many guests a safari is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and do everything they can to ensure that each visit is an unforgettable one. Shared stories at dinner time or around the fire often mean that when you leave, you take a new perspective on life home with you, no matter where in the world you live.
A safari experience unpacked
An unknown experience can be both exciting and daunting, we have unpacked some of the practical aspects of going on safari.
Early wake-up calls and late evenings
Time takes on a pace of its own when on safari. Game viewing is best around dawn and dusk to see a multitude of nocturnal animals so expect to be woken before sunrise and retire to bed late. There is also nothing better than catching 40 winks in the lazy midday heat between game drives.
Nature calls. No toilets in the wild
A typical game drive is 3 hours or longer, so we recommend that you use the bathroom before you leave and keep liquid intake to a minimum. If you do need to answer nature’s call when out on a drive, your guide will show you to the lava – tree (lavatory).
Game drives get bumpy and cold
Game drives are bumpy and bouncy, which the rangers jokingly refer to as “a complimentary African massage.” It’s also good to remember that no matter how hot it feels at the camp, game drives can get chilly as our vehicles have open sides, so always carry warm clothing with you.
Wining and dining
We don’t simply eat food on safari, we enjoy cuisine. Machaba employs professional chefs with years’ of experience in preparing delectable dishes. We make sure that you never go hungry and fill you with an English or Continental breakfast, a light lunch of greens, meat and cheeses, and a multi-course dinner with wine or drinks of your choice.
Mother Nature's guests
When in the bush, humans are the guests and Mother Nature is the host. It is important to respect and care for the environment around us. This means being alert, considerate and paying attention to your guide’s instructions as it is his job to keep you safe.
Snacks breaks and stretch breaks
Soaking up the beauty of nature can be hard work. On morning game drives, there is usually a tea/coffee break with cookies or sandwiches, while evening drives include sundowners and light snacks. That said if something exciting is unfolding, your guide may skip the break to maximise the game-viewing experience.
The daily rhythm of a safari
The shape of a typical day in the bush
Morning
- Wake up call
- Light breakfast in the main area
- Depart for your morning activity: game drive, nature walk, mokoro
- Return from the morning activity
- Brunch
Afternoon
- Leisure/siesta time
- Possible activities: Swimming pool, curio shop, spa
- Afternoon tea
- Depart on afternoon game drive
Evening
- Return from the game drive
- Dinner under the stars (weather permitting)
- After dinner: optional night drive (camp dependent)
What do I need on Safari
Given our experience in hosting guests from all corners of the earth, we have compiled some handy information to help you be well prepared for your trip.
Need more info?
We take care of pretty much everything you will need on your safari, but read on for more information around what you need to do before your trip, during your trip, health and safety, and an idea of the different activities available.
Health and Safety
Machaba, Little Machaba and Gomoti are all situated in low-risk malaria areas.
All camps have a medical emergency procedure and trained first aiders amongst the staff. The camp stocks a small supply of medication for allergies, colds and flu, dehydration, cuts, bites and scratches. The sites have 24-hour communication with Maun, and can arrange emergency evacuation by air if necessary.
Our camps are situated in wildlife areas, so we urge guests to be vigilant at all times. Please do not walk around the camp unescorted after dark. Your guide or a member of the management team will escort you to and from your room. Please stay on the pathways during the day, and press the button three times on your emergency horn should you need emergency assistance at any time.
There are no mandatory vaccinations required for entering Botswana. But surrounding countries might require vaccinations should you be crossing borders.
Transport and logistics
Only soft luggage is permitted, with a weight restriction of 20kg per person (including hand luggage).
You will be travelling in small planes and light aircraft, with the ability to land on short narrow “bush airstrips”.
Machaba will arrange all transfers to and from airports and between camps.
Living in a tented camp
All camps now have internet access in the rooms, except for Mana River Camp and Ngoma Safari Lodge, which have internet access only in the main areas.
Animals generally do not go into tents, unless a tent is left open and something attracts them such as food.
Stay calm and do not make any sudden noises or movements. Follow the instructions you will receive in your briefing upon arrival.
