Our transfer driver from Leopard Hills to the airport was another knowledgeable ranger who provided interesting conversation for the duration of our journey. On the way out, we saw a white rhino, a huge treat since we hadn't seen one yet.
Our flight arrived late to Zambia. Immigration into Zambia and then back out of Zambia and into Zimbabwe took a very long time (over 3 hours in total) so we didn't have time to get to our hotel before the sunset cruise. Instead, our driver drove us straight to the dock where a welcome crew of musicians cheered our moods immediately.
Once onboard we were offered cold fried snacks and complimentary alcohol. The cruise itself was nothing special, but the scenery was lovely. We got to see a couple large crocodiles up close and a lot of hippos.
Still, we were chilled from the cool wind and lack of proper clothing so we were relieved to finish up and head to our lovely hotel. At Batonka House, we were greeted with beverages and a fantastic hotel manager who sat down with us to help us plan our stay- both in terms of meals and local activities.
The trip was not only memorable for the amount of animals we saw but also for the people and accommodations at the two camps where we stayed. Our first guide, BK, was a wealth of information about the animals, landscape and down to the plants and what they were used for. Everyday out was a learning experience with him. All the people at the camps were gracious and the food was excellent.
Our second camp in the Okavanga was just as good as the first as far as the staff, accommodations, food and animals. After our experience at the first camp we amazed that the high quality remained the same. Our guide, G, made sure we were able to enjoy every experience including a rush through the bush to witness a cheetah and an ensuing hunt that he heard over his radio.
In both camps there were enough guides out that if they saw something the other guides were informed which helped in seeing as much as possible. It was also nice that the concessions were large enough that we did not have vehicles following each other throughout the day.
Normally there is always something in a trip of this length that we think could be improved upon but this is the rare case where we cannot think of anything. From the time we left the States to when we returned it was one of the most hassle free vacations we took.
Perhaps emphasizing the use of the laundry facilities at the camps would be useful because of the luggage restrictions would be the only thing I can think of as an improvement to future clients.
Kenneth Dropek
2 days ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.