About Place
- "A gem in the wilderness"
- "Unspoiled beauty with abundant wildlife"
- "A true safari experience"
Reasons to Visit
- Proximity to Moremi Game Reserve : Khwai is located near the northern border of Moremi Game Reserve, one of Botswana's most renowned wildlife reserves. This strategic location provides visitors with exceptional opportunities for game viewing, bird watching, and photography. The area's diverse ecosystems, from floodplains to woodlands, support a wide range of animal species including elephants, lions, leopards, and various antelopes.
- Community-Managed Concession : The Khwai Development Trust manages the Khwai Community Concession. This model of community-based natural resource management ensures that tourism benefits the local community directly. Visitors can engage in cultural experiences and learn about the traditional lifestyles of the Khwai people, enriching their travel experience while contributing to the community's sustainable development.
- Authentic Safari Experience : Unlike more commercialized safari destinations, Khwai offers a more intimate and authentic safari experience. The region is known for its off-road and night game drives, allowing visitors to explore areas not accessible in other parts of Botswana. The lack of fences between the concession and Moremi Game Reserve allows for free movement of wildlife, providing a seamless and natural safari experience.
Visa
- United States : US citizens need a visa to enter Botswana. Visas can be obtained on arrival for a stay of up to 90 days.
- United Kingdom : UK citizens can enter Botswana without a visa for stays up to 90 days.
- European Union : EU citizens (except Irish) require a visa, which can be obtained on arrival for up to 90 days.
- Canada : Canadian citizens need a visa to enter Botswana, which can be obtained on arrival for stays up to 90 days.
- Australia : Australian citizens require a visa to enter Botswana, which can be obtained on arrival for up to 90 days.
- India : Indian citizens need a visa prior to arrival and cannot obtain it on arrival.
- South Africa : Citizens do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days.
Travel Expenses
- Travel to & from destination : $1,500 per person (round trip from major metro city to Maun, then a charter flight to Khwai)
- Hotel cost : $300 per night, $1,200 for 4 nights (double occupancy)
- Food cost : $50 per person per meal, $800 total for 4 days for 2 people (lunch and dinner)
- Activity cost : $500 per person for all activities (game drives, mokoro excursion, cultural tour)
- Near destination travel cost : $300 for 4 days for a rented vehicle
Total Estimated Cost for Couple : $6,100
Best Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival and Relaxation Arrive in Maun and take a short flight to Khwai Village. Check into your lodge and relax, enjoying the serene environment. Have lunch at the lodge, savoring traditional Tswana cuisine. In the evening, go on a night game drive to experience the nocturnal wildlife. Return to the lodge for dinner, featuring local dishes such as seswaa (pulled beef) and morogo (wild spinach). Spend the night stargazing under the African sky.
Day 2 : Full Day Safari Start the day with an early morning game drive in the Moremi Game Reserve, spotting elephants, lions, and other wildlife. Return to the lodge for a hearty brunch. Spend the afternoon on a mokoro (dugout canoe) excursion, gliding through the waterways and observing birds and aquatic animals. Have a picnic lunch by the river. In the evening, enjoy a sundowner and watch the sunset over the delta. Dinner will be at the lodge, with dishes like grilled game meat and pap (maize porridge).
Day 3 : Cultural Experience and Wildlife Begin the day with a cultural tour of Khwai Village, learning about the traditions and lifestyle of the local people. Participate in a craft-making session and visit the local school. Have lunch at a community restaurant, trying local specialties. In the afternoon, embark on another game drive, focusing on different areas of the reserve. Return to the lodge for dinner, enjoying a braai (barbecue) with various grilled meats and vegetables. End the night with storytelling around the campfire.
Day 4 : Bird Watching and Departure Spend the morning bird watching, identifying some of the 500 species found in the area. Have breakfast at the lodge before packing up. Take a scenic flight back to Maun, enjoying aerial views of the delta. Have lunch in Maun before heading to the airport for your departure flight.
Safety Tips
- Always follow the instructions of your safari guide.
- Do not wander off alone, especially at night.
- Keep a safe distance from wildlife.
- Stay in your vehicle during game drives.
- Use insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
- Carry a first aid kit for minor injuries.
- Ensure your travel insurance covers safari activities.
- Keep emergency contact numbers handy.
Flights
- Delta Airlines : New York to Johannesburg, connecting to Maun with South African Airways – approximately $1,200 round trip, 20 hours total travel time.
- British Airways : London to Johannesburg, connecting to Maun with Air Botswana – approximately $1,000 round trip, 18 hours total travel time.
- Qatar Airways : Doha to Johannesburg, connecting to Maun with Air Botswana – approximately $1,100 round trip, 19 hours total travel time.
- Emirates : Dubai to Johannesburg, connecting to Maun with South African Airways – approximately $1,300 round trip, 20 hours total travel time.
- Qantas : Sydney to Johannesburg, connecting to Maun with Air Botswana – approximately $1,500 round trip, 22 hours total travel time.
Hotels
- Khwai River Lodge : Luxurious lodge with river views.
- Sango Safari Camp : Intimate camp offering an authentic safari experience.
- Khwai Bush Camp : Classic safari camp with comfortable accommodations.
- Machaba Camp : Elegant camp blending luxury with a rustic feel.
- Khwai Tented Camp : Cozy tented camp with excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
Contacts
- Indian Embassy in Botswana : +267 391 2128
- Police : 999
- Ambulance : 997
- Firefighters : 998
Country
Closet Airport
- Maun Airport (MUB)
Nearest City
- Maun
Heritage Sites
- Okavango Delta (nearby)
Airlines
- Air Botswana
- South African Airways
- Delta Airlines
- British Airways
- Qatar Airways
- Emirates
- Qantas
Currency
- Botswana Pula (BWP)
Languages Spoken
- Setswana
- English
Real Story
The Story of the Khwai Community Concession
The establishment of the Khwai Community Concession is a significant historical event that underscores the power of community-based natural resource management. This story begins in the early 2000s when the people of Khwai Village decided to take control of their natural resources to ensure their sustainable use and to benefit directly from tourism revenues.
Before the formation of the Khwai Development Trust, the local community faced numerous challenges. The area, rich in wildlife and natural beauty, attracted many tourists, but the benefits of tourism rarely reached the villagers. Wildlife poaching and habitat degradation were also growing concerns, threatening the delicate balance of the ecosystem.
In 2000, the Khwai Development Trust was established to address these issues. This initiative marked a turning point for the community. The trust aimed to manage the Khwai Community Concession, a designated area for sustainable tourism and conservation activities. The primary objectives were to promote wildlife conservation, create employment opportunities, and improve the standard of living for the local people.
One of the first steps taken by the trust was to implement anti-poaching measures. Community members were trained as wildlife scouts, responsible for monitoring animal movements and preventing illegal hunting activities. These efforts significantly reduced poaching incidents and allowed wildlife populations to recover.
The trust also focused on developing eco-friendly tourism infrastructure. Campsites, lodges, and safari camps were established, providing accommodation for tourists while minimizing the environmental impact. The revenue generated from these establishments was reinvested into the community, funding education, healthcare, and other essential services.
An essential aspect of the trust's work was fostering a strong connection between the local people and their environment. Environmental education programs were introduced in schools, teaching children the importance of conservation and sustainable practices. These initiatives aimed to instill a sense of pride and responsibility towards their natural heritage.
The success of the Khwai Community Concession has had far-reaching impacts. The community's involvement in tourism has not only improved their economic situation but also empowered them to take charge of their future. The trust's model has become an example for other communities in Botswana and beyond, demonstrating the benefits of community-based natural resource management.
Today, Khwai Village stands as a thriving community, deeply connected to its cultural roots and natural surroundings. The Khwai Development Trust continues to play a vital role in managing the concession, ensuring that the area's unique biodiversity is preserved for future generations. The story of Khwai is a testament to the power of community collaboration and sustainable practices, offering hope and inspiration for similar initiatives worldwide.
Cuisine
Local Cuisine of Khwai
The cuisine in Khwai reflects the rich cultural heritage of the BaBukakhwe people and the broader culinary traditions of Botswana. Visitors can enjoy dishes that are simple yet flavorful, often prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Traditional Tswana dishes such as seswaa, a slow-cooked shredded beef dish, and morogo, a type of wild spinach, are staples in the local diet. Additionally, game meats such as kudu, impala, and ostrich are commonly grilled or roasted, offering a unique taste of the region's wildlife. Meals are often accompanied by pap, a maize porridge, and fresh vegetables. The local cuisine provides a delicious and authentic experience, allowing visitors to savor the flavors of Botswana.
Culture and History
Khwai Village, situated near the northern border of Botswana's Moremi Game Reserve, is a small community with a rich cultural heritage. The village is home to the BaBukakhwe people, who have lived in harmony with the land and its wildlife for generations. Their traditional way of life, centered around fishing, hunting, and gathering, has been preserved despite the encroachment of modernity.
The BaBukakhwe people are known for their deep respect for nature and their sustainable practices. They have a profound understanding of the local flora and fauna, which they utilize for medicinal purposes and everyday needs. This knowledge has been passed down through generations, and visitors to Khwai can gain insight into these traditions through cultural tours and interactions with the community.
One of the unique aspects of Khwai is its community-based natural resource management. The Khwai Development Trust, established in 2000, manages the Khwai Community Concession. This initiative ensures that tourism benefits the local community directly, providing income and employment opportunities while promoting conservation efforts. The trust oversees various projects, including wildlife monitoring, anti-poaching patrols, and environmental education programs.
The cultural tours offered in Khwai Village provide a glimpse into the daily lives of the BaBukakhwe people. Visitors can participate in traditional craft-making, such as basket weaving and pottery, and learn about the significance of these crafts in the community. The tours also include visits to local schools and interactions with the villagers, offering a holistic understanding of their culture and way of life.
Khwai is not just a place for cultural immersion but also a gateway to some of the most spectacular wildlife experiences in Botswana. The village's proximity to Moremi Game Reserve allows for seamless access to one of Africa's most renowned wildlife habitats. The reserve is home to a diverse array of animals, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino), as well as numerous bird species.
The wildlife viewing opportunities in Khwai are exceptional due to the absence of fences between the community concession and the reserve. This allows animals to move freely between the areas, providing visitors with continuous and dynamic game viewing experiences. Activities such as game drives, night drives, and mokoro (dugout canoe) excursions offer varied perspectives on the wildlife and landscapes.
In summary, Khwai Village is a destination that offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, community-driven conservation, and extraordinary wildlife experiences. It stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence between humans and nature, providing visitors with an authentic and enriching travel experience.