- Africa explored, Laterally - -Africa on Sabbatical ... · Day 9 - Light aircraft to Kasane. Boat to Caprivi Strip (Namibia). Whether you are finishing one of the more adventurous

--- Africa explored, Laterally Africa explored, Laterally Africa explored, Laterally ---

Because I’ve always wanted to...

-Africa on Sabbatical, laterally-

A. Makgadikgadi Pans, Botswana B. Okavango Delta, Botswana C. Caprivi, Namibia D. Victoria Falls, Zambia E. Hwange, Zimbabwe F. Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe G. Mana Pools, Zimbabwe H. Zambezi National Park, Zambia I. South Luangwa, Zambia J. Likoma Island, Malawi K. Ibo Island, Quirimbas,

Mozambique & Quilalea Island

Day 29 - South Luangwa.

Day 30 - Road to Mfuwe. Light aircraft to Likoma Island.

Day 31 - Likoma Island.



Day 34 - Light aircraft to Pemba (Mozambique). Connect onto light aircraft to

Ibo Island in the Quirimbas.

Day 35 - Ibo Island.

Day 36 - Dhow safari in the Quirimbas.



Day 39 - Drop off from dhow safari on Quillalea Island.

Day 40 - Quilalea Island.



Day 43 - Boat to Quirimba Island. Light aircraft to Pemba. Connect onto light

aircraft to Johannesburg.

Day 44 - Land back in the UK.

In a Nutshell... Day 1 - Depart UK.

Day 2 - Arrive Johannesburg and connect on to Maun (Botswana).

Light aircraft to Makgadikgadi Pans.

Day 3 - Makgadikgadi Pans.

Day 4 - Makgadikgadi Pans.

Day 5 - Light aircraft to Okavango Delta.

Day 6 - Okavango Delta.



Day 9 - Light aircraft to Kasane. Boat to Caprivi Strip (Namibia).

Day 10 - Caprivi Strip

Day 11 - Boat/road to Victoria Falls (Zambian side).

Day 12 - Victoria Falls.

Day 13 - Victoria Falls.

Day 14 - Road to Hwange (Zimbabwe).

Day 15 - Hwange.

Day 16 - Hwange.

Day 17 - Light aircraft to Lake Kariba.

Day 18 - Lake Kariba.

Day 19 - Lake Kariba.

Day 20 - Boat to Kariba. Overnight houseboat.

Day 21 - Road to Mana Pools.

Day 22 - Mana Pools.

Day 23 - Mana Pools.

Day 24 - Road/boat to Lower Zambezi National Park (Zambia).

Day 25 - Lower Zambezi.

Day 26 - Lower Zambezi.

Day 27 - Light aircraft to Mfuwe. Road to South Luangwa.

Day 28 - South Luangwa.

Your Recommended Itinerary...

Day 1 - Fly from the UK to Johannesburg (South Africa). Today make your way to the airport for an overnight flight to Johannesburg in South

Africa.

Accommodation: N/A. Meals: None.

Day 2 - Arrive Johannesburg and connect on to Maun (Botswana). Light

aircraft to Makgadikgadi Pans. Early this morning you land in Johannesburg and board a connecting flight to Maun

(Botswana) - the jumping off point for those travelling into the Okavango Delta and

Botswana’s desert areas. Once in Maun board a light aircraft to the Makgadikgadi Pans.

The Makgadikgadi Pans are located in the north-east of the country and are among the largest salt flats on earth, covering 6,200 square miles (16,000km²) of

the Kalahari basin. During the annual rains (Dec to April), the pans become vast

shallow pools and a source of fresh water and grass for migratory wildlife, especially the massive wildebeest and zebra herds that move through the area. During these

rains the area becomes surprisingly green and as the dry season starts the pans dry out to form a vast moonlike landscape. At this point the zebras and wildebeest move

on towards the Boteti River. Accommodation: Leroo La Tau.

Meals: Lunch and dinner.

Days 3-4 - Makgadikgadi Pans area.

At leisure. Take part in some of the activities available here. Go walking with the San Bushmen and learn about their way of life or visit the local Khumaga village. You

can of course head out on day and night game drives to spot lion, zebra and wilde-

beest as well as Chobe bushbuck, leopard, cheetah, brown- and spotted-hyena, im-pala, kudu, jackal, porcupine, genet and caracal amongst others. Staying here for 3

nights also guarantees you the opportunity to go out on an excursion the pans themselves which are quite some sight (this is not a daily activity).

Accommodation: Leroo La Tau.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 5 - Light aircraft to Okavango Delta. Today you travel by light aircraft to the Okavango Delta.

The Okavango Delta in northwest Botswana is unique. The annual flood of fresh water that gathers here from Angola's western highlands slowly spreads for more

than 5,800 square miles (15,000 sq km) over the Kalahari Desert forming a maze of

lagoons and channels. The thousands of islands that arise sustain several diverse ecosystems, which are home to vast numbers of game and a myriad of birds, while

the crystal clear waters support a varied array of aquatic life. The height of the flood occurs in August each year, and as it recedes in its constant

cycle, the delta shrinks. At its lowest level the delta covers about 2,300 square miles

(6,000 sq km).

As the flood increases, so does the wildlife that congregates in huge numbers between May and October each year. The delta draws large numbers of rare animal populations,

such as crocodile, red lechwe, sitatunga, wild dogs, buffalo and wattled crane. The famil-

iar favourites are there in force too - various antelope, elephant, giraffe, hippo, lion, leopard and the like.

This entire area is a wonder to explore and really quite unique, there are numerous dif-

ferent options to stay in luxury tented camps dotted throughout the delta area. Some focus on what are termed dry activities ie. game drives and other on wet activities ie.

boat safaris and mekoro (traditional dugout canoes). There are also camps which offer a

mix. You can choose to stay in the height of luxury or a more homely rustic bushcamp but there are also other more adventurous ways to explore this incredible area two of

which are described below.

- Selinda Canoe Trail: a 4-day and 3-night adventure along the Selinda Spillway - the

waterway linking Botswana's Okavango Delta and Linyanti and Kwando water systems which has only started to flood again in recent years. There are set departures for this

adventure and a maximum of 8 people on each. This is a classic and exciting way to get the best out of the area with days allocated to impromptu exploration and each night

spent camping along the banks of a river in reasonably basic pop tents. Whilst paddling, you encounter wildlife along the Spillway's banks, and disembark the canoes to enjoy

walks, looking for tracks and signs. This area is well known for elephant, buffalo, sable,

roan, wild dog and it is possible to encounter predators and a variety of other species en route. The Spillway is also a birding paradise but has relatively few hippos or crocodiles,

making for a relaxing journey. (Set departures May - October and all should start with 1 night in Selinda Camp on arrival to settle in).

- Footsteps across the Delta (3/4 nights): This set up is all about exploring this stunning and diverse environment as the first African explorers did - either by mekoro or

on foot. The camp is in an area that supports a wealth of animals and you are led by a professional guide. At the time of writing the resident guide is Paul Moleseng who is a

fantastic guide with a passion for walking and who also very much enjoys organising the

Young Explorers programme which is aimed at children up to 12 and involves a full set of activities tailored to younger children to engage them with the bush. Daily walks from

camp are at a relaxed pace allowing plenty of time to observe the environment, learn about tracking skills and perhaps even come across large mammals on foot.

The camp is for 6 guests only in three specially designed twin-bedded tents with sewn-in

floors. Each tent has its own bucket shower and bush toilet, and even a daily laundry

service. There is also a 'bush kitchen' run by an experienced chef. Footsteps Across The Delta offers what you could call a ‘true safari’ experience.

NB: If the group has one child under 12 the camp must be taken exclusively for the Young Explorers programme to be possible. The camp moves year on year to different locations to get the best out of the area. Accommodation: Selinda Camp/Selinda Canoe Trail/Footsteps across the Delta. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Days 6-8 - Okavango Delta These days will be spent exploring the Okavango Delta either by canoe, on foot, by me-

koro or indeed on either morning or night time game drives which are offered at most fixed camps.

Accommodation: Selinda Camp/Selinda Canoe Trail/Footsteps across the delta. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 9 - Light aircraft to Kasane. Boat to Caprivi Strip (Namibia). Whether you are finishing one of the more adventurous delta experiences described above

or indeed you have spent some nights exploring this region from the comfort of a camp you will today travel by light aircraft from wherever you are to Kasane. Once at Kasane

you will be driven to the banks of the Chobe River to board some form of boat.

There is the possibility to spend the next few nights on board a houseboat such as the

Ichobezi on the Chobe river cruising along the borders of Chobe National park, viewing game from the river and relaxing on board. The alternative would be to travel by boat to

Impalila Island (Nambia) and go through immigration (the quaintest immigration post we know of) and then travel again by boat along the channels to either the luxurious Ntwala

Island Lodge or it’s more comfortable and low key sister lodge Impalila Island Lodge.

These lodges are right near the confluence of the Zambezi and Chobe rivers. From here you can take boat trips upstream to cruise along the borders of Chobe National Park and

spot game or head out onto the rapids to do some fishing which is fantastic in this area - particularly tiger fishing. You can also walk out through the villages on Impalila Island and

visit the huge 2,000 year old baobab tree which in olden days served as a look out point.

Accommodation: Ichobezi Houseboat/Ntwala Island Lodge/Impalila Island Lodge. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 10, - Caprivi Strip

Explore the area by boat, head out fishing or to take in the cultural side of things on Im-

palila Island. Alternatively if you are staying at Ntwala you could always just relax in your private plunge pool overlooking the river and watch the world go by.

Accommodation: Ichobezi Houseboat/Ntwala Island Lodge/Impalila Island Lodge. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 11, - Boat/road to Victoria Falls (Zambian side).

Travel by boat back to the jetty (Botwana) and then across the 4 countries (Botswana,

Zambia, Zimbabwe and Namibia) border at Kazangula. This crossing is a major hub point for African road freight and there can often be miles of queues of lorries waiting to cross.

For your part you will arrive at the border from the boat jetty by car and then jump on a

small boat and whizz over the river into Zambia. From here you travel on by road

through Livingstone and towards Victoria Falls.

The majestic Victoria Falls, or Mosi-oa-Tunya (the Smoke that Thunders), are located on the Zambezi River, on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe. Explorer David Living-

stone named the falls for Queen Victoria when he first saw them in 1855. One of the

seven natural wonders of the world, the falls have been attracting travellers and adven-ture seekers for decades, the pounding waters creating a mist that can be seen for

miles and the sound of the falls, especially in the rainy season (November to April), making it difficult to hear anything else. There is a trail that runs along the cliff adjacent

to the waterfall which you can use to reach scenic viewpoints, and the Flight of Angels helicopter trip is a phenomenal way to see the falls from above.

Spend 3 nights a short distance upstream from the falls at the gorgeous Tongabezi right on the banks of the river. This afternoon head down to the falls themselves and walk

out to the viewpoints to take in their sheer size. Accommodation: Tongabezi.


Day 12 - Victoria Falls

Today we would recommend you join a trip to Livingstone Island which is located in the middle of the Zambezi River, touching the lip of the Victoria Falls, right where the water

thunders down the 103m drop. The island is restricted to a maximum of 60 people per day in total and is quite some spot for a picnic lunch. Access here of course depends

entirely on water levels but at some times of year it is also possible to swim in what is

known as Devils pool - a unique sheltered pool in which you can swim and also look over the edge of the falls.

Accommodation: Tongabezi. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 13 - Victoria Falls. This morning take the ‘Flight of the Angels’ (heli flip over Victoria Falls). To take in the

immense size of the falls it is well worth it to view them from above. Heli flips last either 12 or 30 minutes and give you a completely different perspective.

This afternoon head out on an elephant back safari - a 3 hour journey along ancient game trails seated comfortably on the back of an elephant.

There are all sorts of other activities available at Victoria Falls from the extremes of

bungee jumping or white water rafting to the famous and extravagant afternoon tea served daily at The Royal Livingstone.

Accommodation: Tongabezi.


Day 14 - Road to Hwange (Zimbabwe).

Today you travel by road across the bridge linking Zambia to Zimbabwe towards Hwange National Park. Stop off en route at a viewpoint to see the falls from the other side of the

river, depending on the flow of the river the view here can be more panoramic than from the Zambian side. The flow is at it’s lowest in November and December and because of

the presence of a hydroelectric power station on the Zambian side of the falls it can

mean that this side is nearly dry so it would be worth considering staying on the Zimba-bwean side.

It’s about a 2 hour drive from the Zimbabwean side of the falls to Hwange.

Named after a local Nhanzwa chief, Hwange National Park is the largest Park in Zim-babwe occupying roughly 14 650 square kilometers. Previously this area was the royal

hunting grounds to the Ndebele warrior-king Mzilikazi in the early 19th Century but was

set aside as a National Park in 1929. Hwange boasts a huge breadth of wildlife with over 100 species of mammals and nearly 400 species of bird. The elephants in particular are

world famous and the Park's population is one of the largest in the world. Accommodation: The Hide.


Days 15-16 - Hwange.

On safari in Hwange. Take part in morning and afternoon game activities. The park is home to vast tracts of Kalahari sandveld where teak and mopane woodlands are inter-

spersed with saltpans and grassy plains - all this inhabited by a huge range of wildlife. Accommodation: The Hide.


Day 17, - Light aircraft to Lake Kariba.

Transfer to the closest airstrip and fly to Lake Kariba. Here you find a lovely spot called Bumi Hills which is a great place right on the lakeshore to spend a few days relaxing. You

can get out and about on game activities as well but in all likelihood you may just want a

few days to chill out.

Lake Kariba is one the largest man-made lakes in the world. It powers the hydroelectric Kariba Dam in the Zambezi River basin, which provides much of Zambia and Zimbabwe's

electricity. The large dam walls are an impressive sight, and worth a day trip. Such a

large body of water attracts a multitude of game, especially in the dry seasons, so the game reserves bordering the dam make for excellent game viewing. Lake Kariba has a

thriving commercial fishing industry and is also a world-renowned tiger fishing spot. The lake is no less impressive for being man made: there are lots of islands and thou-

sands of tiny inlets to explore. The Matusadona National Park, with its iconic half-submerged forest still standing after the lake was flooded half a century ago, is a favour-

ite with photographers.

Accommodation: Bumi Hills. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Days 18-19 - Lake Kariba.

At leisure. Accommodation: Bumi Hills.


Day 20 - Boat to Kariba. Overnight houseboat.

Board a houseboat this morning and cruise off towards Kariba. Look out for game on the shore and perhaps do a bit of fishing before settling in for the night on

board. Accommodation: Houseboat.


Day 21 - Road to Mana Pools.

On arrival in Kariba disembark and transfer by road to Mana Pools. This drive takes about 3 hours and is very scenic. The alternative depending on the rest of

your itinerary and how adventurous you want to be is to make this journey by canoe over the course of the next few days staying in simple pop tents on the

banks of the river after the days paddling.

Mana Pools National Park has a split personality: its vast expanse of flat land

is dry and arid but becomes a broad expanse of lakes after each rainy season (November to April). Animals follow the pools in search of water, and as the lakes

dry up it is one of the best places in the Africa to view game like elephants, hip-pos, crocodiles and buffalo.

The name "Mana'' means "four" in the local Shona language. This applies to the four large pools inland from the Zambezi River. These pools are the remnant ox-

bow lakes that the Zambezi River carved out thousands of years ago as it changed its course northwards. Hippopotamus, crocodiles and a wide variety of

aquatic birds are associated with the pools. ''Long Pool'', is the largest of the four

pools and measures some 6 kilometres end to end. Accommodation: Kanga Camp.


Days 22-23 - Mana Pools.

On safari in Mana Pools. Kanga camp is probably the best camp for game in the dray season as there is a waterhole here which is one of the only nearby water

sources and attracts animals from far and wide. The focus here is one game drives and walking safaris. However Kanga is set away from the river and there

are of course other excellent camps (Ruckomechi for example) along the banks of the river which on top of walking and game drives also offer boat and canoe safa-

ris.

Accommodation: Kanga Camp. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 24 - Road/boat to Lower Zambezi National Park (Zambia).

Today you travel by road back to Kariba to cross the border and go through immigration into Zambia. From Kariba you travel by boat along the Zambezi to spend 3 nights at

Chongwe River Camp located on the confluence of the Zambezi and Chongwe Rivers. This refreshingly unpretentious camp is comfortable without being luxurious. All fittings

are made from natural materials found near the lodge and tents are dotted along the

river. (Open April to November)

Lower Zambezi National Park - Downstream from Lake Kariba this is Zambia's young-est park where the Zambezi river forms small reed islands, which are feeding grounds for

an abundance of wildlife. The beauty of this park is in its state of absolute wildness. There are some spectacular opportunities to get close to the game wandering in and out

of the Zambezi channels as you explore the area by boat. The game is generally found at

the bottom of the valley and the camps in the park are scattered along the water’s edge. Game drives, walking safaris, canoeing and some great fishing (particularly in Oc-

tober) are also on offer. Accommodation: Chongwe River Camp.


Days 25-26 - Lower Zambezi National Park.

On safari in the Lower Zambezi. Accommodation: Chongwe River Camp.


Day 27 - Light aircraft to Mfuwe. Road to South Luangwa.

Today you travel north to the South Luangwa Valley. To get there you fly by light aircraft out of Lower Zambezi via Lusaka to Mfuwe. On arrival you will be collected and driven in

the South Luangwa National Park. The South Luangwa Valley, which marks the end of the Great Rift Valley, is one of the

last unspoilt wilderness areas and possibly the finest wildlife sanctuary in Africa. The ox-

bow lagoons of the Luangwa River and the woodland and plains of the valley attract a high concentration of game particularly hippo, elephant, buffalo, puku and crocodile.

There are also regular predator sightings including lion, leopard and wild dog and the park is home to over 400 species of birds. Walking safaris here are one of the parks

highlights and it is indeed here where walking safaris were originally developed.

There are many options on where to stay here but Norman Carr have a number of excel-

lent camps in this area. You may want to opt for the remote Luwi Camp deep in the heart of the park where you can even do an ultimate sleepout on a roll out mattress with

just a mossie net under the stars. Or you may find you are ready for some luxury in which case it is worth considering their new camp Chinzombo which is set to open in

March 2013 and is going to be a very slick operation and in their owns words ‘wildly luxu-

rious’. Accommodation: Norman Carr Camp.


Days 28-29, - South Luangwa National Park.

On safari in the South Luangwa. Amongst everything else there is great leopard spot-ting in this area.

Accommodation: Norman Carr Camp. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 30 - Road to Mfuwe. Light aircraft to Likoma Island (Malawi). Today you transfer by road to Mfuwe (the main hub for accessing South Luangwa) and

from here fly to Likoma Island on Lake Malawi. There will almost certainly be a touch-down at Lilongwe en route.

Occupying a fifth of the country, Lake Malawi is the third largest lake in Africa and

home to more fish species than any other lake in the world. Also known as Lake Nyasa,

it is often referred to as 'the calendar lake' because it is 365 miles (590km) long and 52 miles (85km) wide. Situated between Malawi, Mozambique and Tanzania, this African

Great Lake is about 40,000 years old, a product of the Great Rift Valley fault line.

There are fishing villages to be found along the lake shore where residents catch a

range of local fish including chambo, kampango (catfish), lake salmon and tiger fish. The export of fish from the lake contributes significantly to the country's economy, and

the delicious chambo (similar to bream) is served in most Malawian eateries.

Visitors to the lake can see colourful mbuna fish in the water, while there are also occa-sional sightings of crocodiles, hippos, monkeys and African fish eagles along the shore.

The nearby Eastern Miombo woodlands are home to African wild dogs. Swimming, snor-

kelling and diving are popular activities in the tropical waters of the lake, and many visi-tors also enjoy waterskiing, sailing and fishing. Then, of course, there are the long

stretches of beautiful golden beach to relax on...

Likoma Island is an enclave of Malawi, completely surrounded by Mozambican waters,

and was colonised by Anglican missionaries in the late 1800s. This island is a lovely spot, with beautiful beaches and African scenery featuring baobab trees and open

grasslands. There is an impressive Anglican Cathedral here, a large structure in the main town of Mbamba that was built out of stone by the missionaries in 1903. There

are very basic dirt roads spanning Likoma Island but most places can be reached on

foot or by bike. Accommodation: Kaya Mawa.


Days 31 to 33, - Likoma Island. At leisure. Sail, kayak, windsurf, waterski, wakeboard, fish, dive, snorkel, explore the

island by bike, on foot or even by quadbike. Or just relax on the beach with a book!

Accommodation: Kaya Mawa Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 34 - Boat/road/air to Pemba. Connect onto light aircraft to Ibo Island in

the Quirimbas. Today you travel to Mozambique and it is quite some journey. This however is all part

of the adventure. Your day will start with you travelling by boat to Cobue on the shores of Lake Malawi. If you don’t already have a Mozambican visa this is where you will get

one but we would advise that you organise this in advance.

In Cobue you will be met by a car and driven approximately 4 and a half hours to

Lichinga. Once in Lichinga board a flight to Pemba. Finally once you arrive in Pemba board a light aircraft to Ibo Island in the Quirimbas (If you arrive in Pemba after dark

you will need to spend the night at Pemba Beach Hotel as light aircraft don’t fly into the Quirimbas after sunset).

The Quirimbas - The idyllic islands that comprise the Quirimbas Archipelago stretch

for 250 km along the northern Mozambican coastline, from the historic port of Pemba in the south to the town of Palma in the north.

With its 27 islands virtually untouched and unexplored, the archipelago represents one

of the few tropical island destinations in the world still untainted by man's influence.

The 1500 square kilometre Quirimbas National Park provides sanctuary for the remark-able flora and fauna residing in this marine area. Feeding and nesting grounds for sea

turtles, dugongs, dolphins, sharks and whales are protected here, as is a vast expanse of tropical forest. Included within the park are 11 unspoilt coral islands, which are

strung along the coastline. These coral atolls boast vertical drop-offs of up to 400 me-ters, abundant with coral-covered caves and tropical fish, ranging from Gobies to mam-

moth Napoleon Wrasse, as well as game fish such as Kingfish and Spanish Mackerel.

The Quirimbas have enormous cultural and historical value and are a melting pot of

Arabian, Portuguese, and African influences.

Ibo Island, with its coral reefs, mangroves and magnificent old fortresses, has a fasci-

nating and disturbing history. With its prime location off the East African coast, the island became a significant trading post for gold, ivory and later slaves between the

16th and 19th centuries. Today visitors can visit relics from the slave trade and watch silversmiths hand-fashion intricate silver jewellery as they have for generations.

Accommodation: Ibo Island.


Day 35, - Ibo Island. Join a walking guided tour of the island and learn about its history, visit the fort and

don’t miss out on seeing the silversmiths at work creating the delicate jewellery for which this island is known.

Accommodation: Ibo Island. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Days 36-38 - Dhow Safari in the Quirimbas Ibo Island Lodge offer tented mobile dhow safaris in the Quirimbas Archipelago and

the optimum time to spend out on one of these adventures is 3 nights. This is a bril-liant way to explore the coastline fringed by tropical islands on a sturdy motorized

Arab dhow complete with experienced crew and pro guide.

Sea kayak or sail up wide coastal river mouths teeming with red listed bird species

and pristine mangrove forests. Snorkel off deserted white sandbanks and into the turquoise sea, and sleep in mobile fly camps on uninhabited tropical islands. In the

evenings chef will conjure up fresh seafood (catch of your day!) or traditional cuisine over an open fire under the stars. A true adventure.

Accommodation: Fly camping.


Days 39 - Drop off from Dhow Safari on Quilalea Island. Drop off from your dhow safari on Ibo Island and depending on the tides either

transfer to the airstrip for a light aircraft flight to Quirimba Island or transfer by

speedboat direct to Quilalea.

If you fly to Quirimba Island on arrival you will be met and transferred by boat to Quilalea Island (wet landing). Stay at Azura Quilalea for 4 nights to round of your

African adventure - we would recommend you stay in a sunset villa. Accommodation: Azura Quilalea.


Days 40-42 - Quilalea Island.

At leisure. Quilalea Island is a small private coral island which you can walk around in about 30 minutes with only 9 villas - 4 sunrise, 4 sunset and the gorgeous Villa

Quilalea. Barefoot luxury at it’s absolute best and a fantastic place to spend your few

final days in Africa. Accommodation: Azura Quilalea.


Day 43, - Boat to Quirimba Island. Light aircraft to Pemba. Connect onto

light aircraft to Johannesburg. Today you travel by boat to Quirimba Island and from there board a light aircraft

back to Pemba. Enjoy some final incredible views of this beautiful archipelago spread beneath you en route. On arrival in Pemba transfer to the international terminal for

a flight to Johannesburg. It may be possible for you to connect straight onto an ongoing overnight flight home

but if not spend a night in Johannesburg.

If this is the case we would advise you stay somewhere in the Melrose area where you

can walk out and find great restaurants and bars as well as shopping in a modern area of the city. If you have time the Apartheid Museum is well worth a visit but will require

at least 3 hours and a drive through Soweto (the township synonymous with the strug-gle against Apartheid) with a guide can provide great insight.

Accommodation: None. Meals: Breakfast.

Day 44, - Arrive back in the UK.

In all likelihood you will arrive back in the UK early this morning having used an over-night flight from Johannesburg.

- - -

Laterally sleeping...

Leroo La Tau

Leroo La Tau lodge is built on the cliffs above the Boteti riverbed which is usually dry except for deep permanent waterholes. However in recent year this river has once

again flowed. The raised setting ensures great views of game congregating at the wa-terholes below. There are 12 luxurious ensuite chalets here, on raised wooden decks

as well as the main dining area, lunge and pool area to relax in. Evenings can be

spent at the campfire which also overlooks the waterhole. Game drives (both day and night), walking with the San Bushmen, vsiits to the local Khumaga village and visits to

the vast moonlike (in dry season) or shallow lake (wet season) pans themselves are all available here.

Selinda Canoe Trail: a 4-day and 3-night adventure along the Selinda Spillway - the

waterway linking Botswana's Okavango Delta and Linyanti and Kwando water systems which has only started to flood again in recent years. There are set departures for this

adventure and a maximum of 8 people on each. This is a classic and exciting way to get the best out of the area with days allocated to impromptu exploration and each

night spent camping along the banks of a river in reasonably basic pop tents.

Footsteps across the Delta (3/4 nights): This set up is all about exploring this

stunning and diverse environment as the first African explorers did - either by mekoro or on foot. The camp is for a maximum of 6 guests in only three specially designed

twin-bedded tents with sewn-in floors. Each tent has its own bucket shower and bush toilet, and even a daily laundry service. There is also a 'bush kitchen' run by an experi-

enced chef. Footsteps Across The Delta offers what you could call a ‘true safari’ expe-

rience. The camp is in an area that supports a wealth of animals and you are led by a professional guide. Daily walks from camp are at a relaxed pace allowing plenty of

time to observe the environment, learn about tracking skills and perhaps even come across large mammals on foot. The Young Explorers programme is also available here

for children.

Ichobezi Houseboats

These 2 houseboats provide the opportunity to stay overnight within the Chobe Na-tional Park at the prime docking sites along the river. The boats have 4 spacious twin

en-suite cabins for guest use, with sliding windows opening onto the water. There is also a plunge pool on board and a range of activities including game viewing from the

comfort of the boat or from the 2 tenderboats, birding and fishing, cultural tours of

local villages or simply relaxing on deck watching the world go by.

...sleeping Laterally

Ntwala Island Lodge

Situated 70 kilometres upriver from the Victoria Falls, where two mighty African rivers – the Zambezi and Chobe converge, this lodge is a beautiful and exclusive retreat.

There are only 4 individually designed enormous suites and the lodge is surrounded on all sides by wild and powerful waterways. Each suite has a private plunge pool

fringed by white sand and opulent viewing deck, indoor and outdoor showers as well

as a bath big enough to swim in and a sala extending on decking out over the river. Each suite has it’s own boat and guide so of you can tear yourself away from the lux-

ury take boat trips upstream to cruise along the borders of Chobe National Park and spot game or head out onto the rapids to do some fishing which is fantastic in this

area - particularly tiger fishing. You can also walk out through the villages on Impalila Island and visit the huge 2,000 year old baobab tree which in olden days served as a

look out point.

Tongabezi

Tongabezi Lodge is situated on a sweeping bend of the Zambezi river, facing west toward the sunset, 18 kilometres upstream from Victoria Falls. The lodge has open

expansive views of the river and has a wild, romantic feel. The rooms - all decorated in an earthy African style which runs throughout this lodge - range from Riverfront

Cottages to vast suites built onto the hillside above the river and vary from being

completely closed rooms to open fronted to the elements and monkeys! Visit the falls, canoe on the Zambezi, boat to deserted islands for picnic lunches, visit a local

village or indeed the affiliated school (Tujatane) which lies next door to the lodge. Join a bird walk or river cruise or indeed take part in some of the more extreme activ-

ities offered in the area. There is all sorts here to keep you busy!

The Hide

The Hide built 1992 in Hwange National Park by the Preston family is set in its own private concession right on the boundary of the National Park. It’s reputation for

great wildlife with a warm and welcoming reception is well deserved. The whole camp including the tented bedrooms overlook a waterhole, well used by wildlife. This

area of the park is amazing for birding and wildlife. In particular in the dry season

very large herds of elephant and buffalo gather at the waterholes to drink. Adven-turous guests enjoy spending a night sleeping out in the romantic Dove’s Nest.

Bumi Hills

Bumi Hills Safari Lodge is situated on top of a hill approximately 55km south west of Kariba town on the shores of Lake Kariba. The unique, elevated situation provides

stunning views of this vast lake and here you find all the comforts expected of a safa-ri lodge. This place really is about relaxing (great spa!) in a beautiful setting but the

sunset cruise wonderful photographic opportunities especially of the famous Kariba

sunsets. Bird watching, hide sits and casual fishing are also available.

Laterally sleeping...

Kanga Camp

Kanga Camp is a seasonal bush camp located in a private concession overlooking the Kanga Pan in one of the more remote parts of Mana Pools National Park near the Rucko-

mechi river. The camp has six en suite Meru-style tents, built with solid wood beams and metal frames, with canvas walls and meshed windows. The communal camp area is

raised on decking overlooking the Kanga Pan, which is the only above-surface water

source in the area (making this a fantastic camp in the dry season), and where lions, leopards, wild dogs, elephants, buffaloes, various antelope species and a multitude of

birds are often seen. Meals are taken communally in the central dining area with cuisine focusing on fresh home cooked meals. There is also a small library, lounge and fire pit

area. The focus here is on mainly walking and game drives as opposed to the water based activities available at camps along the river.

Ruckomechi

Ruckomechi Camp is situated on the western side of Mana Pools National Park on the banks of the Zambezi river. Shaded by a large grove of acacia and mahogany trees and

with superb views of the Rift Valley escarpment across the river in Zambia, the camp is made up of 10 spacious en suite tented units each with indoor and outdoor showers as

well as a private deck offering panoramic river views. Activities here include vehicle and

boat safaris as well as canoeing on the Zambezi.

Chongwe River Camp

Chongwe River Camp is situated on the confluence of the Chongwe and Zambezi Rivers, directly opposite Mana Pools which lies on the other side of the river in Zimbabwe. The

camp itself looks onto the confluence of the two rivers and the mountains of the escarp-ment to the north. This refreshingly unpretentious camp is comfortable without being

overly luxurious - the focus here is on the safari experience. All fittings in the large and

comfortable tented rooms dotted along the river are made from natural materials found near the lodge. Activities include game drives, walks, boat safaris, canoeing, fishing and

community visits.

Luwi Camp

Luwi Camp, nestled in the shade of huge mahogany trees, is close to a permanent hippo and croc filled lagoon. It is situated deep in the heart of the National Park, on the dy-

namic seasonal Luwi River after which it is named. The area is extremely remote with no other camps or people for many miles around. Due to the remote location it’s the per-

fect camp for walking safaris. The wildlife in the area is prolific and memories of the ex-

perience of tracking big game on foot last a lifetime. Walks can be complemented by game drives and explorations upriver to discover the source of the Luwi or to find the

elusive Roan antelope or reed buck, eland and hartebeest which are almost never sene in other parts of the Park.

...sleeping Laterally

Kaya Mawa

Kaya Mawa, set on the quaint Likoma Island, was built entirely by hand in conjunc-tion with the local community and is designed cleverly with the rooms built into the

rocky headland on which it is set. The feel here is generally Robinson Crusoe-esque with 11 thatched chalets, one private house which is perfect for a family or small

group and a pristine golden sand beach. Kaya Mawa means ‘maybe tomorrow’ and

you may find with that in mind you just want relax on the beach and soak up the at-mosphere. However water activities aside you can also walk or bike unguided into the

local fishing villages to see the markets, textile workshop or one of the many commu-nity projects.

Ibo Island Lodge

Located on Ibo Island in the Quirimbas Archipelago and with a prime waterfront loca-tion, Ibo Island lodge consists of three magnificent mansions, each over one hundred

years old and lovingly restored. All bedrooms are unique and individually designed, with many opening onto private verandas. Indigenous teak and mahogany handcraft-

ed furniture can be found in all rooms, along with antique fittings. The rooftop ter-

race is the perfect spot for sundowners and the food here - prepared by a local team from the island - deserves a special mention. The overall feeling here is one of quirki-

ness and tranquility. Relax, dip in the pool, explore the island of head out to the sandbank to go snorkelling. Ibo Island itself has a rich cultural history dating back to

at least AD600, learn of the Island's Arab, Portuguese and Dutch influences on a guided historical tour. Dhow safaris, sunset cruises, mangrove forest excursions, fish-

ing and relaxing massage treatments are all also available.

Azura Quilalea

Set on a private island in the Quirimbas archipelago in northern Mozambique Azura Quilalea is quite simply barefoot luxury at it’s best. There are only 9 villas here all on

the waters edge, 4 sunrise, 4 sunset and the gorgeous Villa Quilalea. All are v hewn from local materials, with natural coral stone walls, carved wooden beams, makuti

thatch roofs, and timber wooden decks. An excellent watersports centre offers div-

ing, snorkelling (both day and night), fishing, kayaking and dhow sailing. Back on land wander round the island looking out for nesting turtles and a surprising amount

of birdlife. There are numerous magical sundowner and dinner spots on the island to take advantage of and the food itself with an emphasis on local seafood deserves a

special mention.

The Nitty Gritty...

What’s Included... All accommodation on a twin/double share basis with private facilities

Breakfast throughout, other meals as specified

Private/shared excursions and transfers including entrance fees and guiding

English speaking guides on excursions

Domestic flights

What’s Not Included...

Items of a personal nature - phone calls, laundry, minibar etc

Gratuities & Porterage

Early check-in / late check-out

Departure taxes

Excess baggage fees

Beverages during meals

Insurance cover

Visas

...Yours Laterally

laterallife specialises in...

Executive Sabbaticals

Complex itineraries worldwide Creative Honeymoons

Milestone birthdays & anniversaries Family reunions

Not so small print…

laterallife will do all possible to confirm arrangements as per the agreed itinerary.

In the event of any change we will notify you at once with a suitable alternative. The total trip price may change due to variables beyond our control such as force

majeure, weather conditions, political conditions and events. When you are on-trip, you will be provided with 24 hour emergency contacts both in the country

you are visiting and at laterallife in the UK. Our full terms and conditions in large legible print are on our website.

Contact Me...

laterallife Founder: Nick Matthews 1-5 Offord Street, London N1 1DH W: www.laterallife.com

E: [email protected] T: 0207 607 1943

Documents

- Africa explored, Laterally - -Africa on Sabbatical ... · Day 9 - Light aircraft to Kasane. Boat to Caprivi Strip (Namibia). Whether you are finishing one of the more adventurous