GUMA LAGOON - OKAVANGO PAN-HANDLE 2017

FISHING SAFARI OKAVANGO, BOTSWANA

Guma Lagoon Camp is situated on the northwestern edge of the impressive Okavango Delta wetland system. Hidden amidst a grove of beautiful ebony and fig trees on the banks of a Lagoon, the camp is a haven for fishermen and birdwatchers alike.

The Okavango River is definitely one of the most pristine and beautiful destinations for any fresh water angler or nature enthusiast to visit. Home to one of Africa’s most sought after species ‘Hydrocynus vittatus’ or more commonly known as the Tiger fish, rated pound for pound as the hardest fighting fresh water fish in Africa. Guma Lagoon is definite a must visit for any fly or spin fishermen especially during the famous Okavango Barbel run.

Anglers try to catch in on the fish feeding frenzies by fishing off the edges of these runs targeting the tiger fish. Large catfish and the most sought after of the bream species, the Nembwe, are also caught during the runs. Best time to catch in on the run is between Sept and Oct. Away from the lagoon, the peak period for the bream species is over the winter months of May to August. Depending on the season, the prominent species caught on fly while fishing the lagoon are catfish, African pike, red breasted tilapia, three spot tilapia and purple face largemouth.

Guma has 7 x campsites and 12 x cabins. The cabins have 2 beds with linen and an en-suite bathrooms. All campsites have their own private ablutions with hot water and flush toilets.

The campsites do not have power points as the camp runs on an inverter system. The only plug point is in the kitchen – this may be used for charging cell phones, i-pods, laptops or cameras. Small fridges and hairdryers will not be allowed to be plugged in as our battery system won't be able to handle the load.

Guma has a communal kitchen which all guests are more than welcome to use. The kitchen is fully equipped with a gas fridge/freezer, gas stove, cutlery, crockery etc. We also have a bar/dining room area that overlooks the lagoon. Guma has a restaurant serving a fixed dinner menu which must be pre booked before arrival in order for us to cater for everyone.

Whether fly fishing or spin fishing, the Okavango River is undoubtedly one of the best freshwater sport fishing rivers found anywhere in Southern Africa. While all types of fishing are offered at Guma, the emphasis is on fly fishing, and remember that it’s catch and release. Depending on the season, the prominent species caught on fly while fishing the lagoon are catfish, African pike, red breasted tilapia, three spot tilapia and purple face largemouth. For those who want to fish the mighty Okavango River, a 90-minute boat ride from camp that passes through a narrow meandering network of channels, will get you there. Although tiger fish are readily caught during most months, the peak season extends from September through to the end of November. This coincides with the annual catfish runs, known locally as the “Barbel Run”, where literally tens of thousands of catfish are involved in frenzied pre-spawning feeding behaviour. Fishing off the edges of these runs for tiger fish is the ultimate Okavango fishing experience. Large catfish and the most sought after of the bream species, the nembwe, are also caught during the runs. Away from the lagoon, the peak period for the bream species is over the winter months of May to August. While these are peak periods, Guma makes for a fantastic fishing destination throughout the year.

THE BIRDINGThe area has a species count of over 200 birds, which are found in a variety of habitats that include wetlands, floodplains, riverine forest and dry woodland. The specialities include Pels fishing owl, white backed night heron, African skimmer, Rufousbellied heron and Lessor Jacana. The most rewarding birding months are from September through to late January as this period offers prime feeding conditions, and all the migrant species are present.

MOKORO TRAILS: The traditional dugout canoe, known locally as a mokoro, was the mode of transport chosen by the Okavango’ first inhabitants, the Bayei and Banoka people. Guma offers a choice of daytrip or overnight camping mokoro trails that take you into the heart of the Okavango. Being poled through the tranquil channels that link the extensive flood plain system to the main river is a safari experience not to be missed. Water lily beds, palm islands and papyrus stands abound making for the most scenic of experiences, and along the way, guided walks on the larger islands are possible. There is always a chance of seeing large herds of red letchwe bounding through the water and passing elephants feeding amongst the lush wetland vegetation.

RatesFull Board Accommodation – BWP 1,147 per person sharing per nightBoat hire – BWP 1232.00 per day (Max 4 People | Recommended 2 fishermen)Mokoro Day trips – BWP 752.00 per person sharing, incudes transfer to site and entry fee.

50% Deposit required to secure booking space

Transfers: Air Charter: Maun to Seronga return - USD 520.00 per person (Min 2 Guests)Boat transfers: Seronga Airstrip to Guma Lagoon Camp return - BWP 1755.00– (max 4 guest)

Includes Excludes

Full board accommodation Fishing Equipment hire

12% Botswana VAT DrinksBed Levies Visa's

Maun Departure Airport taxes GratuitiesTransfer to Mokoro departure site & entry fees Medical Insurance

Travel Insurance

International FlightsBoat hire fuel

MalariaBotswana is a Malaria area, guests should, however, consult their physician with regard to precautionary medical advice before leaving home.

Documents RequiredSouth African residents do not require visas for Botswana.If one is not a citizen of a country that is exempted from having to apply for a visa, then one must obtain a visa either at the port of entry or at a the visiting countries Mission abroad.

Charter information (very important):There is a strict luggage restriction of 20kg per person including your hand luggage for all the internal air charters planned within the Okavango Delta. This is an air safety requirement and must be strictly adhered to. Please note all bags must be soft sided bags (duffel type bags). Duffel type bags refer specifically to luggage with no wheels, frames or rigid structures. Duffel bags are required in order to fit luggage into the luggage belly pods of the aircraft. The dimensions for bags must not exceed 60cm in length, 30cm in height and 25cm in widthTransfers may include up to 2 stops per destination.Groups of more than 4 Guests can be split between aircraftsPassengers who are heavier than 110kg may have to purchase an extra seat due to flight weight constraints. Please contact us if this is the case.Passports

Make sure you are in possession of a full valid passport. This must be valid for a minimum of six months beyond the date of your EXIT from Africa. Please ensure you have at least 2 unused pages in your passport.

Travel & Medical InsuranceIt is recommended that travel insurance be taken out prior to departure. This should cover any medical emergency such as evacuation or hospitalisation, as well as cancellation and lost baggage. We do not cover any medical expenses in the event of injuries or complications that may occur as a result of the trip.

Emergency EvacuationThis is a service Navigate Africa Safaris provides for all our guests in the event of any life threatening illness or injuries via our insurance partner SATIB Insurance

Our Purpose:

To help intrepid adventurers navigate the rich and varied experiences that sub-Saharan Africa has to offer. To facilitate

unforgettable journeys.

About us:

We are absolutely passionate about Africa and its unique natural beauty. Africa’s vast and varied landscapes offer myriad

opportunities for those who are explorers at heart.

Let Navigate Africa Safaris facilitate your discovery of sub-Saharan Africa’s secrets and idiosyncrasies. Our team will put

together tailor-made adventure experiences that allow you to indulge in your favourite pastime in exciting new settings.

We understand that the natural ruggedness of an African safari should be offset by impeccable service and, as such,

carefully screen our destinations, products, and guides to ensure that they are the best the area has to offer.

We strongly support sustainable tourism and strive to have a minimal impact on our environment.

Office Location:

Cape Town, South Africa

Contact US:

(C) +27 (0) 72 393 6178

(Mail) adventures@navigateafricasafaris.com

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Using a SATSA member provides peace of mind for those who seek to do business with credible tourism partners

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Bird Life South Africa

Navigate Africa Safaris is registered as bird friendly tour operator with Birdlife South Africa

Being a Birder Friendly tour operator

Tour operators are required to meet certain criteria in order to qualify for 'Birder Friendly' status:

The Operator and its Guides must be fully accredited tour operators/guides.

The Operator should be able to provide BirdLife Travel with itineraries for promotional purposes at local and international Trade Shows.

The Operator must commit to the use and support of BirdLife South Africa's "Birder-friendly" accommodation suppliers where ever

possible.

The Operator must commit to the support of Community Bird Guides where possible.

The Operator must commit to practicing responsible tourism ethics.