Safaris by design
SOUTH AFRICA & BOTSWAN/NAMIBIA Border
PALMER Family / 6 pax
DAYS BEFORE THE MAGIC STARTS!
Day(s)
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USD $ 3,981 pps* (Hunt safari excluded)
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*pps=per person sharing / min of 6 pax travelling
WHY YOU’D LOVE IT!
South Africa hunt & photo safari combo!
Hunt in the game-rich North-West province, home to the infamous Cape Buffalo and a long list of top-quality plains game species.
Next stop: Pilanesberg National Park, set in an ancient volcanic crater, offers a unique safari experience with the Big Five and diverse wildlife. Its stunning landscapes, including rolling hills, grasslands, and lakes, make it perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers alike.
Next stop: Embark on an enthralling water safari through Botswana’s enchanting Chobe National Park, where you’ll have the opportunity to spot magnificent wildlife such as hippos, leopards, giraffes, and crocodiles. All of this from the comfort of the luxurious Chobe River houseboat, which offers unmatched views from its private viewing deck
A truly astonishing safari adventure, filled with magical experiences that you won’t find anywhere else in the world!
OVERVIEW
Itinerary at a glance
MAP
MAP
Visualize your journey!
DAY 0 | Travel
DEPARTURE
Travel
DEPARTURE
Your adventure starts now!
Embark on an African safari and anticipate breathtaking landscapes, encountering diverse and majestic wildlife in their natural habitats, and immersing yourself in the rich cultural experiences of the continent.
* See your safari itinerary for transfer logistics
DAY 1 | Arrival in Johannesburg
JOHANNESBURG
Overnight
📍 Witwater Guest House
WITWATER GUEST HOUSE
Guest House Overview
Bed & Breakfast
Conveniently located 5 miles from Johannesburg International airport, Witwater Guest House & Spa offers accommodation with access to spa facilities, wellness packages and beauty services.
À la carte and continental breakfast options with warm dishes, local specialities and fresh pastries are available daily at the guest house. Guests can eat in the on-site traditional restaurant, which is open for dinner, lunch, brunch and high tea.
B&B
GUEST HOUSE
OVERNIGHT
DAY 2-4 | Pilanesberg National Park
PILANESBURG
Safari days
📍 Bakubung Bush Lodge
PILANESBURG NATIONAL PARK
Area Overview
Pilanesberg Game Reserve exists within the transition zone between the dry Kalahari and wetter Lowveld vegetation, commonly referred to as "Bushveld". Unlike any other large park, unique overlaps of mammals, birds and vegetation occur because of this transition zone.
With the opportunity to witness Africa's renowned Big Five in their natural environment. The Pilanesberg Game Reserve is home to a diverse array of wildlife, boasting more than 7,000 animals and 300 different bird species. Enthusiasts can observe all members of the Big Five as well as a wide variety of other creatures, Home to healthy populations of lion, leopard, black and white rhino, elephant and buffalo - Africa's "Big Five". A wide variety of rare and common species exist with endemic species like the nocturnal brown hyaena, the fleet-footed cheetah, the majestic sable, as well as giraffe, zebra, hippo and crocodile.
Pilanesberg is one of the largest volcanic and Alkaline Ring Complexes of its kind in the world. Its rare rock types and structure make it a unique geological feature. The early presence of man can be seen in the numerous Stone and Iron Age sites that are scattered throughout the park.The crater of a long extinct volcano is the setting of Pilanesberg National Park - a fascinating alkaline complex produced by volcanic eruptions some 1300 million years ago. The area is fringed by three concentric ridges or rings of hills - the formation rises from the surrounding plains like a bubble. The structure of the park is termed the "Pilanesberg National Park Alkaline Ring Complex". Ancient, even by geological time scales, this extinct volcano is the most perfect example of an alkaline ring complex. A number of rare (but not necessarily economically important) minerals occur in the park. Pilanesberg has survived ages of erosion and stands high above the surrounding bushveld plains. The early presence of man can be seen in the numerous Stone and Iron Age sites that are scattered throughout the park.
Safari days
Each day on safari in Africa is a magical experience, whether you’re exploring the savanna on foot or in a 4x4 vehicle in search of the Big 5 or taking to the sky in a hot-air balloon to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration. Every single day is steeped in the promise of a unique adventure and cherished memories.
Although each day is unpredictable to a certain extent, based on the time of year or location, there is a general format or schedule that safaris tend to follow, but, as a rule, safaris do follow a familiar rhythm that combines thrilling game viewing with ample time to relax in between—a dream vacation in anyone’s book. One rule of thumb is that there are usually two game drives a day: one in the early morning and one in the late afternoon, when animals are at their most active.
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BAKUBUNG BUSH LODGE
Lodge Overview
Bakubung Lodge, nestled in the heart of the Pilanesberg National Park, offers visitors an unparalleled safari experience. The lodge provides an ideal blend of comfort and wilderness, featuring luxurious accommodations and modern amenities against the backdrop of the African bush. Guests can enjoy daily game drives led by expert rangers, where they have the chance to spot the Big Five—lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and buffalo—along with a diverse array of other wildlife. The lodge’s strategic location within the park ensures that every excursion is filled with exciting animal encounters and breathtaking landscapes.
In addition to its exceptional wildlife experiences, Bakubung Lodge boasts a range of facilities designed for relaxation and enjoyment. Visitors can unwind at the on-site spa, take a dip in the swimming pool, or savor delicious cuisine at the lodge’s restaurant, which offers stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. For families, the lodge provides engaging activities for children, making it a perfect destination for a family getaway. Whether you're an avid nature enthusiast or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Bakubung Lodge offers a unique and memorable experience that captures the essence of Africa’s natural beauty.
FULL BOARD
LODGE
GAME VIEW
DAY 5-9 | Hunting Days
HUNTING
Plains Game hunt
📍 North-West Camp
NORTH-WEST CAMP
Overview
Cape Buffalo hunting take place in the Malaria free North West province of South Africa, between the small towns of Schweizer-Reneke and Vryburg.Driving time from Johannesburg is approximately 4 hours.
Proud home of Buffalo, Sable, Roan, Tsessebe, Eland as well as 45 other wildlife species. Also rich in birdlife and indigenous flora, making it a hunting, photography and safari paradise.
Hunting days
A typical day of hunting begins by waking up before sunrise and gathering for breakfast and coffee. Following this, the hunting party leaves the camp in vehicles to engage in spotting and stalking for the day. The hunting activity continues until mid-day, at which point everyone returns to the lodge for lunch and a break.
After a brief rest or siesta, the afternoon hunt commences. For those exploring remote areas, packing a lunch is likely. At the end of a successful day of hunting, participants convene at the campfire to share their experiences. A delightful dinner is served once all hunters have returned, and many choose to unwind by the fireplace with post-dinner drinks before retiring for the night in preparation for the next day's hunt.
Accommodation
Luxury accommodation, 5 star catering and epic Africa sunsets! Welcome!
The bushveld with its scattered thorn trees and shrubs will make your African safari dreams come true…bring your family and friends and let's give them a hunt of a lifetime. Whether you choose to lounge by the pool area with a drink in hand after a successful hunting day or sit by the fire at the boma and exchange stories with fellow hunters, is totally up to you. The exclusive luxury safari lodge will serve as an awesome African destination with a homely atmosphere. Two chefs that prepare and serve world class cuisine of your choice. Furthermore, the lodge feature 8 air-conditioned rooms, Wi-Fi, satellite TV, a lookout Lapa with boma and a large fire pit, a beautiful swimming pool with sundeck, indoor fireplaces and lounging areas as well as a Gym, Spa and an indoor man-cave with bar and snooker (pool) table. A place where we aim to amaze! Africa awaits you!
FULL BOARD
LODGE
HUNT
DAY 10-12 | Chobe River
CHOBE RIVER
Water based safari!
📍 Chobe Princess House Boat
CHOBE RIVER
Area Overview
Chobe National Park includes two incredible wildlife areas: Chobe Riverfront and Savute. The Chobe River is one of Africa’s magical rivers, attracting animal of all sizes. Chobe also offers the highest density of elephants to be found anywhere in Africa, Chobe National Park is the ultimate safari destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Immerse yourself in nature's grandeur and witness the breathtaking spectacle of Chobe River's prolific wildlife, where majestic elephants roam freely, diverse bird species take flight, and unforgettable safari adventures await, making it a must-visit destination for every intrepid traveler.
The Chobe River forms its northern boundary and in the extreme south-west it borders the Moremi Game Reserve. The riverfront is a markable wildlife area due to the permanent water source of the Chobe River. Most wildlife activity occurs along the banks of the river - especially during the drier winter months (May – October) when animals congregate at the river to quench their thirst. The spectacle of all the animals coming to drink and frolic at the water's edge is a sight to behold! Birding enthusiasts will find the riverfront a fantastic destination at this time with more than 400 species of birds, including migratory species and numerous birds of prey.
All that said, Chobe National Park is most famous for its elephant and buffalo populations, both of which can herd in mammoth proportions. With an estimated 40,000 to 60,000 elephants, these gentle giants constantly surround you.
The park's picturesque wetlands also attract a wide variety of bird life, with the chance to see numerous species among the 460 that call this place home or pass through, including raptors, vultures, and waterfowl.Head out on a sunrise game drive to observe the animals at the beginning of their day, when they are most active. You might even spot a leopard returning from a hunt.When you return to your luxury accommodations at the lodge in the evening, take pleasure in the comforts it offers, gather for dinner, and share stories about your day.
CHOBE PRINCESS
House Boat Overview
Full board, excl. premium drinks | Wifi (limited) available on the boat | No laundry services available
The fascinating game-rich Savuti area is located within the Chobe National Park. The Lodge is perfectly situated on the outskirts of the Ghoha Hills, overlooking the Savuti Plains. The elevated position ensures spectacular unparalleled 180-degree views and was designed and built to blend into the natural surrounding environment.
Set in Botswana's "predator capital," the lodge allows guests to sit in comfort and watch animals come to the camp's waterhole to drink - photographers may want to visit the hide for a better view!
During the summer green season, Savuti is known for its large elephant population, especially during the dry season, and it serves as an important migratory corridor for thousands of zebras. It's no surprise that Savuti has a reputation for high-impact drama: all the big cats are present, as are large packs of spotted hyena, and wild dogs are frequently seen.
Look out for herds of elephants, buffalo, impala, kudu, giraffe, zebra, roan antelope, hyena, lions and leopard are some of the possible sightings around in the area. Not to mention the numerous different bird species!
ACTIVITIES
Bird watching
Guide walks
Game drives
Star gazing
Transfer to the Houseboat details
Morning pick up followed by 1.5hr road transfer to Kasane Immigration point in Botswana - Arrive at Kasane Immigration Point between 1pm-2pm foe meet & greet by houseboat representative. Next, transfers by small tender boat from Kasane immigration via Impalila Island immigration or customs clearance. The boat transfer is about 20 minutes. Please take note of Passpoert requitement & of empty Visa page requirement as well as unabridges birth certificate requirements for minors
FULL BOARD
HOUSE BOAT
GAME VIEW
DAY 13 | Return
RETURN
DEPARTURE
Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end! Goodbye to the safari life, feeling relaxed, mesmerizing scenery, great food, family time, and romantic memories.
Morning road transfer back to the airport for your outbound flight... dreaming of the trip of a lifetime!
◽️ Preparing for your trip
PREPARING FOR YOUR
SAFARI
Pre-Travel Information
Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the return date of your arrangements and have a minimum of three blank visa pages excluding endorsement pages. Travellng with minors - in addition to having a valid passport and valid visa (if applicable), children under the age of 18, traveling through Botswana’s borders, must be in possession of a certified copy of their unabridged birth certificate (one that shows the particulars of a minor and those of both parents). A child under the age of 18 traveling to Botswana and/or South Africa with just one parent must carry an affidavit signed by the other parent consenting to such travel. Failure to produce the necessary documentation may result in travelers being turned away at port of entry. Insider Tips Zimbabwe and Mozambique visas each use up a full passport page. If you are visiting both countries we recommend a minimum of four blank pages. Post Covid passport renewals are taking much longer than in the past so don’t leave applying for a new passport until the last moment as there iust a chance you won’t receive it in time to travel. Keeping your passport safe is key as there is nothing worse than having to spend precious holiday time replacing it. Make at least two copies of the ID page of your passport, visa (if obtained in advance of travel), Covid-19 vaccine passport, travel itinerary, travel insurance, credit cards and any other travel documentation. One copy can be an image scan and the other a hard copy which you can give to a family member, business associate or close friend for safekeeping When it comes to health risks and medical precautions, Machaba Blue is only able to offer limited advice as outlined below. Those with underlying chronic conditions should ideally seek medical advice prior to planning their journey. Prior to traveling to Africa, we highly recommend you visit a medical professional such as your GP or local travel clinic for advice on what health precautions need to be taken. This visit should take place at least 4-8 weeks prior to departure as it will determine the need for any vaccinations and/or antimalarial medication as well as identifying any other medical precautions. Currently no mandatory vaccinations are required when entering Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and South Africa. Please check if this is still the case when visiting your GP or travel clinic. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required by visitors coming from a country where yellow fever occurs, or if they have been in transit for more than 12 hours at an airport in a country here yellow fever occurs. Malaria is present throughout southern Africa and in certain areas of South Africa. Insider Tips INCLUDED ____________ * As indicated on your detailed safari itinerary EXCLUDED ____________ * Unless otherwise indicated on your itineraryPASSPORTS
HEALTH
VISAS
GRATUITIES
PACKING LIST
BAGGAGE
TRAVEL INSURANCE
SAFETY GUIDELINES
INCLUDED & EXCLUDED