About Place
- "A pristine and remote wilderness, offering unparalleled game viewing."
- "Home to the largest elephant population in Africa."
- "An exclusive safari destination with stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife."
Reasons to Visit
- Exclusivity:
- Home to a few small, luxury camps
- Ensures an intimate and uncrowded safari experience
- Allows for personalized game drives and close encounters with wildlife
- Exceptional Wildlife Viewing:
- Famous for large herds of elephants, especially during the dry season
- Known for predators such as lions, leopards, and African wild dogs
- Prime destination for big game enthusiasts
- Diverse Ecosystems:
- Ranges from floodplains and lagoons to woodlands and savannas
- Supports a wide variety of species
- Offers new and exciting experiences on every game drive
- Combines scenic beauty with abundant wildlife for an unforgettable safari experience
Visa
- United States: US citizens do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days.
- United Kingdom: UK citizens do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days.
- Australia: Australian citizens do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days.
- Canada: Canadian citizens do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days.
- European Union: Citizens of most EU countries do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days.
- India: Indian citizens require a visa to enter Botswana. This can be obtained through the Botswana High Commission.
Travel Expenses
1. Travel to & from Destination:
- Charter flight from Maun to Linyanti and back for two people: $1,200
2. Hotel Cost:
- Luxury tented camp (all-inclusive) for 3 nights: $2,400
3. Food Cost:
- All meals included in camp package
4. Activity Cost:
- All game drives, boat safaris, mokoro excursions, and bush walks included in camp package
5. Near Destination Travel Cost:
- All internal transfers included in camp package
Total Estimated Cost for a Couple: $3,600
Best Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Introduction to Linyanti Arrive in Linyanti via charter flight from Maun. Check into your luxury tented camp around noon and enjoy a welcome lunch at the camp's dining area. Spend the afternoon settling in and taking in the beautiful surroundings. At 4 PM, embark on your first game drive, where you might spot elephants, zebras, and various antelope species. Return to the camp by 7 PM for a delicious dinner under the stars, featuring local dishes such as seswaa (slow-cooked beef) and morogo (wild spinach). After dinner, relax by the campfire and listen to the sounds of the African bush before retiring to your tent.
Day 2: Morning Game Drive and Boat Safari Wake up early for a 5:30 AM game drive, when the animals are most active. Enjoy sightings of lions, leopards, and possibly the rare African wild dogs. Return to camp by 9 AM for a hearty breakfast. At 11 AM, take a guided bush walk to learn about the smaller details of the ecosystem, including tracks, plants, and insects. Have lunch at the camp’s dining area, trying local flavors such as biltong and pap (maize porridge). In the afternoon, from 3 PM to 6 PM, enjoy a boat safari on the Linyanti River, where you can observe hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species. Dinner will be served at 7 PM, with dishes like grilled game meat and fresh vegetables. Spend the night stargazing with a knowledgeable guide.
Day 3: Mokoro Excursion and Visit to Local Village Begin your day with a 6 AM mokoro (traditional canoe) excursion, navigating through the tranquil waterways of the Linyanti marshlands. This unique experience offers close encounters with aquatic wildlife and birds. Return to camp by 9 AM for breakfast. At 11 AM, visit a nearby local village to learn about the culture and traditions of the indigenous people. Have lunch with the villagers, sampling traditional cuisine such as seswaa and samp (crushed corn). Return to the camp by 3 PM and relax until the evening game drive at 4 PM, focusing on finding elusive predators. Dinner at the camp will be served at 7 PM, featuring dishes like bush pig stew and local grains. End the night with a storytelling session around the campfire.
Day 4: Departure Enjoy a final early morning game drive at 5:30 AM, making the most of your last hours in the Linyanti wilderness. Return to camp by 8:30 AM for breakfast. Spend some time relaxing and packing before your departure. Have a light lunch at 12 PM, savoring the last flavors of Botswana. Board your charter flight back to Maun at 2 PM, taking with you unforgettable memories of Linyanti.
Safety Tips
- Always follow the guidance of your safari guide.
- Do not walk alone outside of designated areas.
- Keep a safe distance from all wildlife.
- Stay hydrated and apply sunscreen.
- Use insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites.
- Wear neutral-colored clothing to blend in with the surroundings.
- Avoid loud noises and sudden movements on game drives.
- Do not leave food or drinks unattended outside.
- Carry a basic first aid kit.
- Ensure all travel documents and valuables are kept secure.
Flights
- From Johannesburg to Maun: South African Airways, 1 hour 40 minutes, approximately $300 per person
- Charter Flight from Maun to Linyanti: Various local operators, 45 minutes, approximately $600 per person
Hotels
- Kings Pool Camp
- Linyanti Ebony Camp
- DumaTau Camp
- Savuti Camp
- Linyanti Bush Camp
Contacts
- Indian Embassy (Gaborone): +267 390 2050
- Police: 999
- Ambulance: 997
- Firefighters: 998
Country
Closet Airport
- Maun International Airport (MUB)
Nearest City
- Maun
Heritage Sites
- Linyanti Wildlife Reserve
Airlines
- South African Airways
- Air Botswana
- charter flights
Currency
- Botswana Pula (BWP)
Languages Spoken
- English
- Setswana
Real Story
The establishment of the Linyanti Wildlife Reserve is a significant historical event that has shaped the region's identity. In the early 20th century, Linyanti was a remote area known primarily to local tribes and a few adventurous European hunters. The abundance of wildlife, especially elephants, drew attention from conservationists who recognized the need to protect these valuable ecosystems from overhunting and habitat destruction.
In the 1960s, the Botswana government, along with international conservation organizations, began efforts to establish protected areas to conserve wildlife and promote sustainable tourism. The Linyanti Wildlife Reserve was officially established in the 1980s, encompassing a vast area of wetlands, riverine forests, and dry savannahs. This initiative marked a turning point in the region's history, shifting its focus from hunting to conservation and eco-tourism.
The creation of the reserve not only helped protect endangered species but also provided economic opportunities for local communities. Jobs in tourism, guiding, and conservation management became available, fostering a new economic model based on sustainable practices. The reserve's success has been a testament to the collaborative efforts between the government, local communities, and international partners in preserving Botswana's natural heritage.
Cuisine
Linyanti's cuisine reflects the rich culinary traditions of Botswana, offering a blend of indigenous ingredients and flavors. Visitors to Linyanti can savor a variety of dishes that provide a taste of the local culture and traditions. Here are some of the key elements of the local cuisine:
Seswaa:
- A traditional meat dish made from beef, goat, or lamb, which is slow-cooked until tender.
- The meat is typically pounded or shredded and served with pap, a type of maize porridge.
- Seswaa is often seasoned simply with salt and sometimes a bit of pepper, allowing the natural flavors of the meat to shine through.
Morogo:
- Also known as wild spinach, morogo is a leafy green vegetable that is commonly used in Botswana cuisine.
- It is often cooked with onions, tomatoes, and sometimes ground nuts or peanut butter to enhance its flavor.
- Morogo is a nutritious side dish that accompanies many meals, providing a healthy and tasty complement to the main dishes.
Biltong:
- A type of dried and cured meat, similar to jerky, made from beef or game meats like kudu, springbok, or ostrich.
- Biltong is seasoned with a mix of vinegar, salt, sugar, and spices, and then air-dried.
- It is a popular snack in Botswana, enjoyed for its rich flavor and convenience.
Bogobe:
- A staple food in Botswana, bogobe is a thick porridge made from maize or sorghum flour.
- It is often served as a base for other dishes or eaten on its own with a bit of butter or milk.
- Bogobe can be found in various forms, such as soft or stiff, depending on how it is prepared and served.
Vetkoek:
- A popular fried dough bread, vetkoek is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
- It can be eaten plain, filled with savory mince, or enjoyed with sweet toppings like honey or jam.
- Vetkoek is a versatile and delicious treat that is commonly enjoyed as a snack or part of a meal.
Culture and History
The culture of Linyanti is deeply rooted in the traditions of the indigenous people and the rich biodiversity of the region. The local communities, primarily composed of the San and BaTawana people, have lived in harmony with nature for centuries. Their way of life is closely tied to the land, with a profound understanding of the flora and fauna that inhabit the area. Traditional practices such as hunting and gathering are still part of daily life, though modern influences have also made their mark.
Linyanti's cultural landscape is also shaped by its colonial history. The region was once a hunting ground for European explorers and settlers. However, with the establishment of wildlife conservation areas, Linyanti has transitioned from a hunting destination to a conservation hub. This shift has fostered a new cultural dynamic where local communities, conservationists, and tourists work together to preserve the natural environment.
The cultural heritage of Linyanti is also celebrated through various festivals and ceremonies. Traditional dances, music, and storytelling play a crucial role in preserving and passing down the cultural narratives of the people. Visitors to Linyanti can engage with these cultural expressions, gaining a deeper understanding of the local way of life and the values that underpin it.