Dear Wildlife Enthusiast,
It has been just a few weeks since the Bannister family bid farewell to the vast, open plains of the Maasai Mara and embarked on the exciting adventure of starting our own travel, guiding, and guide-training company. The transition has been hectic, exhilarating, and deeply emotional—but above all, it has been extraordinary.
I am thrilled to share the highlights of an incredible safari adventure I had the privilege of leading in August. Our 12-day journey took us through some of the most exclusive and breathtaking lodges in the Okavango Delta, an ecosystem celebrated for its stunning beauty and rich biodiversity.
Our adventure began at the luxurious Vumbura Plains, situated in the northern reaches of the Delta. From the moment we arrived, the lodge's impeccable service, world-class hospitality, and stunning location set the stage for an unforgettable experience. Surrounded by lush floodplains and dramatic landscapes, Vumbura Plains offered us some truly remarkable wildlife sightings. One of the standout moments was witnessing two male lions swimming across an expanse of open water—a rare and thrilling spectacle that left us in awe! We also had the pleasure of seeing the magnificent and elusive Sable Antelope, whose impressive antlers and striking presence were a true highlight. Although wild dogs eluded us, the diversity of wildlife and the natural beauty of the area made every moment special.
Next, we journeyed south to Mombo, a mere 12-minute flight by small plane, located on an exclusive portion of the renowned Chief’s Island—arguably the most prolific and sought-after wildlife area in the Okavango Delta. Famous for its superb game viewing and luxurious accommodations, Mombo provided us with an incredible opportunity to explore its rich wildlife. Iconic Baobab trees dotted the island, adding a dramatic backdrop to our drives. Our focus here was on leopards, and we were rewarded with some of the best leopard sightings I’ve ever experienced—10 different sightings over 4 nights. Apart from the leopards, a particularly special moment for me was spotting a Porcupine—my first daylight encounter with this delightful creature. The game density around Mombo was exceptional, making each game drive thrilling and diverse. It certainly lived up to its reputation.
Our final destination was the stunning Xigera, celebrated as the most luxurious safari lodge in Africa. The attention to detail at Xigera was astounding. Every aspect of the lodge was executed with professionalism, thoughtfulness, and elegance. The elevated rooms offered breathtaking views of the Delta’s serene waterways and rich biodiversity. During our stay, we were fortunate to see wild dogs in action and witness the thrilling sight of lions hunting at sunset. We also enjoyed fishing in the river and a peaceful mokoro (traditional canoe) ride through the wetlands. Gliding across the crystal-clear water in silence added an entirely new dimension to the safari experience. A personal highlight was finally seeing a Pel’s Fishing Owl—a bird I have longed to see for my entire life. This rare and magnificent owl was the icing on the cake of an incredible safari.
raveling through these three exceptional lodges allowed us to experience the Okavango Delta’s diverse landscapes and wildlife in all their glory. From the dramatic sight of lions swimming at Vumbura Plains to the extraordinary leopard sightings at Mombo and the unparalleled luxury of Xigera, our adventure was a testament to the Delta’s remarkable ecological richness and the high level of service and comfort provided by these lodges.
If this journey has inspired you and you wish to embark on a similar bespoke safari, I would be delighted to help you plan your dream trip. Please feel free to reach out to me to discuss your safari aspirations, and together we can create an unforgettable experience tailored just for you.
Wishing you a wonderful day and looking forward to exploring nature’s wild wonders with you soon!
Warmest regards,
Adam
Wildlife Nature Guide | Biologist | Professional Photographer
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