Ameliya's Itineraries
The best of Botswana
The Best of Botswana
Extraordinary diversity. Exceptional wildlife. Breathtaking scenery. All the wild wonders of Botswana, from the Delta to the Linyanti.
AMELIYA SIGNATURE SAFARI EXPERIENCE:
- 9 Nights and 10 Days
- All meals, accommodations & internal flights included
- Stay at Wilderness King’s Pool, Chitabe. and Jao, for 3 nights each
- Thrilling game drives through wilderness areas
- Spacious tents with en-suite bathrooms, private verandas, and stunning views.
US $26,950.00
*Please Note TCS will be applicable for all Indian citizens going abroad, as per Government Of India regulations
Inclusions
- Accommodation, all meals, tea/coffee, evening snacks
- Domestic beer & wine and select liquor, safari sundowners, bush breakfasts, and WIFI.
- Park Conservancy fees, morning and evening game drives in a shared vehicle, and supplemental walks.
- Activities as indicated on the itinerary
- Domestic Wine, Beer & Liquor in National Parks (in premium & luxury options only)
- Laundry services
Exclusions
- Goods & Services Taxes as applicable
- Tips, international flights & transfers, additional activities, visa fees, travel & medical insurance, exclusive vehicle.
- All other expenses not mentioned in the “inclusions” above will have to be borne as additional expenses by the participants
Payment Terms
- All tours operate on 100% advance payment.
- 50% need to be paid at the time of booking, 25% is due 120 days prior to the trip start date and 25% 90 days prior.
- The preferred mode of payment is Bank Wire. All card transactions will incur a 3.5% service fee.
- Rates are subject to change and are not applicable for Christmas/New Years. Rates are valid for 2024 only. Rates for 2025 will incur a 10% hike.
- Any changes in government taxes and park/conservancy fees have to be borne by the guests.
- We reserve the right to revise any published costs without prior notice. However, confirmed bookings will be honoured.
Cancellation Policy
- 50% is non-refundable once the payment is done.
- The remaining amount will be refunded if cancellation is done 120 days prior to the tour start dates. Between 90-120 days, 35% is refunded.
- No refund if cancellation is done between 0 – 90 days of the trip start date. Amendment in dates within 90 days from arrival is treated as a cancellation.
- Please note that the date of written communication (e-mail) of intent to cancel will be the date considered for the calculation of the cancellation fees.
- The cancellation amount is calculated as per the total booking amount and not as per the advance deposited.
- No refunds in case of refusal to use a service/activity mentioned in the itinerary.
- All refunds are processed minus bank charges.
Tranfers
- Transit Point Via Maun Airport In Maun
- Maun Airport to Linyanti
King's Pool (3 Nights • Tented Room x 1)
Wilderness King’s Pool consistently delivers the best dry season game viewing in far northern Botswana. Situated on the border with Namibia’s Caprivi Strip, Wilderness King’s Pool is in an area vital to the seasonal movements of elephant herds, and to the survival of rare roan and sable antelope. Looking down over the Linyanti River, and up from the safety of sunken hides gives guests unexpected angles from which to witness great wildlife moments.
Seven well-appointed twins and one suite, all of canvas, wood and thatch, soak up the views of the lagoon. The main area, deck and bar offer uninterrupted views, with closer proximity to the water, while parts of the roof extend down to ensure privacy.
Insider’s Tip: Special highlights include sundowners on the Queen Silvia barge and time out at the unique underground hide!
Inclusions / Exclusions
Tented Room: All meals, twice daily scheduled camp activities, park fees, laundry and all local drinks excludes premium imported brands and champagne.
Transfer
- Linyanti from/to Okavango Delta
Chitabe (3 Nights • Tented Room x 1)
Wilderness Chitabe’s location places it at the heart of a complex and beautiful mosaic of habitats, and this diversity results in Wilderness Chitabe being one of the most storied of all Botswana’s areas. Experienced, passionate guides are inspired by the intricate and dynamic landscapes to deliver wildlife experiences few other locations can match.
Eight elevated, meru-style guest tents provide the perfect human habitat, while a stroll along the elevated walkways connecting them to the main area is a safari experience in itself. Day and night drives, and guided walks, showcase the varied wildlife and landscapes of the Okavango.
Insider’s Tip: Learn more about the African wild dog packs of the area; if you’re lucky you’ll see some of these endangered carnivores.
Inclusions / Exclusions
Tented Room: All meals, twice daily scheduled camp activities, park fees, laundry and all local drinks excludes premium imported brands and champagne.
Transfer
- Okavango Delta from/to Okavango Delta
Jao (3 Nights • Tented Room x 1)
In the heart of the Okavango, luxurious Wilderness Jao is set amongst islands fringed with riverine forests and vast, floodplains with prolific wildlife. Shaded by a canopy of trees, the five spacious suites and two ultra-luxe villas offer en-suite facilities with both indoor and outdoor showers. Expansive views from the private sala at each suite make for a sumptuous setting for afternoon siestas.
Customized luxury guest suites and two ultra-luxe villas share Jao Island with the spectacular main area, which features a pool, a library and an outdoor boma for evenings of traditional food, song and dance. The views of the night skies over Wilderness Jao cement its place in the safari firmament as a star among equals.
Insider’s Tip: Make the most of the many luxuries offered such as the beautiful star bed sleep-out or a visit to the spa to feel utterly restored.
Inclusions / Exclusions
Tented Room: All meals, twice daily scheduled camp activities, park fees, laundry and all local drinks excludes premium imported brands and champagne.
Transfers
- Okavango Delta to Maun Airport
- Transit Point Via Maun Airport in Maun
Game Drives
Big-cat conservation
Fly Camping
Bush Meals
Night Safaris
Balloon Safaris
Sundowner
Bush Walks
Cultural and Community Visits
Please Note: Experiences and activities are subject to the your travel dates, accommodation choices, and government regulations
Okavango Delta
The intricate channels and ever-changing islands of the Delta are home to a variety of species, from elephants and hippos to water-adapted lions and cheetahs. Over 400 bird species, including rare ones such as the Malachite Kingfisher, herons, and African fish eagles, grace its skies, making it a haven for birdwatchers.
Linyanti
Hundreds of miles from civilization, the Linyanti is a pristine wilderness area that hosts some of the largest herds of elephants, a high density of predators including lions, leopards, and a good number of African Wild Dogs. You should also expect to see large pods of hippos and crocodiles lining the river banks, along with many regional rarities and superb raptors.
US $26,950.00
*Please Note TCS will be applicable for all Indian citizens going abroad, as per Government Of India regulations
Inclusions
- Accommodation, all meals, tea/coffee, evening snacks
- Domestic beer & wine and select liquor, safari sundowners, bush breakfasts, and WIFI.
- Park Conservancy fees, morning and evening game drives in a shared vehicle, and supplemental walks.
- Activities as indicated on the itinerary
- Domestic Wine, Beer & Liquor in National Parks (in premium & luxury options only)
- Laundry services
Exclusions
- Goods & Services Taxes as applicable
- Tips, international flights & transfers, additional activities, visa fees, travel & medical insurance, exclusive vehicle.
- All other expenses not mentioned in the “inclusions” above will have to be borne as additional expenses by the participants
Payment Terms
- All tours operate on 100% advance payment.
- 50% need to be paid at the time of booking, 25% is due 120 days prior to the trip start date and 25% 90 days prior.
- The preferred mode of payment is Bank Wire. All card transactions will incur a 3.5% service fee.
- Rates are subject to change and are not applicable for Christmas/New Years. Rates are valid for 2024 only. Rates for 2025 will incur a 10% hike.
- Any changes in government taxes and park/conservancy fees have to be borne by the guests.
- We reserve the right to revise any published costs without prior notice. However, confirmed bookings will be honoured.
Cancellation Policy
- 50% is non-refundable once the payment is done.
- The remaining amount will be refunded if cancellation is done 120 days prior to the tour start dates. Between 90-120 days, 35% is refunded.
- No refund if cancellation is done between 0 – 90 days of the trip start date. Amendment in dates within 90 days from arrival is treated as a cancellation.
- Please note that the date of written communication (e-mail) of intent to cancel will be the date considered for the calculation of the cancellation fees.
- The cancellation amount is calculated as per the total booking amount and not as per the advance deposited.
- No refunds in case of refusal to use a service/activity mentioned in the itinerary.
- All refunds are processed minus bank charges.
GENERAL QUERIES
WHAT ARE THE MODES OF PAYMENT?
We accept wire transfers, debit/credit cards, and UPI payments. Please note that a 2% gateway fee is applicable for cards.
Can I customize the experiences I've seen on your website?
Yes, please feel free to reach out to us in case you want to get a customized itinerary according to your preferred destinations, accommodations, interests, and requirements. For e.g. number of days or friends and family members you want to travel with.
How far in advance do I need to book a safari?
While Ameliya’s travel advisors do their best to accommodate our guests’ last-minute needs and requests, we strongly advise booking as far ahead in advance as possible to ensure the availability of accommodations. The best thing to do is to get in touch with us as soon as you think of a safari experience, whether it is this year or the next. Here’s a general advisory that will help you with the decision-making process:
For Indian parks, we recommend at least 4 -12 months notice, especially for a tiger/snow leopard experience, but lower lead times are possible depending on the locations and activities. Parks in India are regulated by the government and each reserve has a cap on the number of vehicles that can enter the park. If tickets are sold out, we are unable to book the safaris.
For Africa, we recommend 6-10 months for the high season (June – October), and 2-4 months for the low season (November – April).
Is it safe to travel to Africa?
Despite most African stereotypes of a warn-torn, poverty-stricken continent, Africa is as safe as any other international travel destination. Just remember that African countries are poorer in contrast to first-world countries and therefore you should be conscious of flashing or leaving money & jewelry lying around.
Guests are advised to leave valuables in a safe or with the camp/lodge manager for safe-keeping. African people are very friendly, warm and hospitable and their guests will always feel safe in the care of the camp/lodge staff.
Their job is to ensure the safety and comfort of their clients at all times. Properties in Africa will always have an emergency/ evacuation plan if anything were to go wrong
Should I purchase travel health insurance?
We strongly recommend that our travellers buy comprehensive travel and health insurance prior to coming on an Ameliya Safari experience. Should you require any assistance with purchasing such policies, our travel advisors will be happy to assist you.
What vaccinations are required?
Certain vaccinations may be required for travel to Africa, for example, often you will need a yellow fever vaccination. To be sure, consult your local Travel Clinic to obtain the latest health travel advisories.
Is there Wi-Fi available?
All of our camps do have basic Wi-Fi available in certain areas.
It is important to note that while wifi is available, it is more than likely not at the same fast speeds that you may be used to, but sufficient for checking emails and keeping in touch with home.
What does a typical day look like on safari?
Your mornings will begin with a wake up call before sunrise – classic for any safari experience. Once you are fresh and ready, you will be met by your guide for a briefing over a hot cup of coffee, and a light breakfast, before you head out. The crisp and cool air of the early morning will flow through you as you drive into the bush, the sun coming up from the horizon, casting a godly glow on the savannah and the everything around you coming to life – Africa in all its glory.
During the safaris, you will learn how to identify and track different species of animals, learn their behavior and best ways to observe/photograph them, conservation communities that live in the area, and much more.
After the morning safari, you have some time to unwind, enjoy the bush library, get a massage, or just take in the sights and smells of Africa from your deck.
In the evening you will head out for another game drive, and have an iconic African sundowner. In most locations, we drive back after the sunset for a night safari experience looking out for nocturnal creatures.
Back at camp, a hot fire awaits along with drinks and a three course meal.
What to pack on safaris in africa
Safari Shirts x 3
T-shirts × 3
Pants x 3
Shorts x 2
Rain Coat x 1
Warm Jacket × 1
Light Sweater × 1
Light Safari Boots x 1
Room Slippers x 1
Undergarments / socks
Cap, Hat, Sunglasses, Sunscreen
Personal Medication & Toiletries
Personal electronics, camera equipment, binoculars etc.
Mornings and evenings can be cold while afternoons will be warm and sometimes rainy. We recommend carrying a comfortable jacket and raincoat.
Please wear neutral colors in the bsuh: black, navy blue, khaki, green, beige, grey etc. Please avoid bright colors. Please also avoid strong perfumes.
Please carry comfortable shoes/boots that you can walk in.
National Parks vs Private game reserves/Concessions/ Conservancies.
- Africa, unlike India, has many great private game reserves and private concessions. Parks in Africa are pretty large so sections of these parks are given to private companies or communities.
- All areas offer good wildlife experiences but private concessions & conservancies offer greater exclusivity, less crowd, off-roading, and even night safaris. For this reason, camps located in these areas are often more costly.