Cheaper Safari to launch in Botswana

WANETSHA MOSINYI
Staff Writer | Friday August 29, 2008 00:00

 

The company's managing director, Johan Gerber said recently that they plan to officially launch Lathita Botswana by the end of October.

He said the subsidiary aims to offer tourists a combined experience of some of the best wildlife hot spots in the country. 'Safari is very expensive at the moment and we want to make it affordable again.  This is meant for people in southern Africa to enjoy the beauty of their continent.'

There is a single safari package offered by the company that will take 10 days. It will take tourists to the Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve, Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR) and Chobe Game Reserves.  Gerber said the safari will introduce new and unique destinations and every route will incorporate serviced Fly Camps or a night spent out in the open 'Hemingway style'. 

'The Safari route will allow you to not only experience some of the best wildlife viewing in Africa, but you will also get to interact with the local people and take part in traditional cultural activities,' Gerber said.

He added that to enhance the experience, they will incorporate local guides and activities at each stop-over with specific knowledge of each region.

The Botswana Safari will provide tourists with a 4x4 vehicle plus a knowledgeable and experienced guide. The Safari adventure starts in Maun for tourists to experience the world-renowned Okavango Delta and Moremi Game Reserve.

'This is a wildlife haven that everyone needs to visit at least once in a life time.'Gerber said after Maun, the safari heads to Deception Valley in the CKGR. 

The region is relatively new on the safari circuits.  There, he said tourists will among others, experience the San culture.

The Makgadikgadi Pans, will be the next stop for tourists to enjoy the salt pans which serves as a breeding grounds for millions of flamingos each year.

Gerber said Lathita is currently building a Safari Camp in the area.  The camp is 10km from Kubu Island, which has been declared a world heritage site because of the historical ruins.

The safari ends at Chobe Game Reserve, home to some of the largest herds of elephants on the planet. Even though Gerber did not disclose the prices they will charge, he said the safari alternative they are introducing is cheaper than others.