AN IMMERSIVE BOTSWANA PHOTOGRAPHIC ADVENTURE WITH DON GETTY AND FRIENDS

A wealth of wildlife and natural wonders awaited us on our Botswana safari, a journey through four incredibly diverse locations.

UNDER THE STARS - A UNIQUE CAMPING EXPERIENCE

We started our Botswana safari with eleven nights of exclusive camping under the stars, where the sounds of the wild signaled an unforgettable journey.

MOREMI GAME RESERVE - OKAVANGO DELTA (4 NIGHTS)

Our four nights in the Moremi Game Reserve, within the Okavango Delta, delivered exceptional wildlife encounters. Early on, we saw two young male lions, marking our introduction to the reserve's predator presence. Their powerful build and developing manes were striking. A lilac-breasted roller's persistent effort to consume a large beetle showcased the daily struggles of survival. It was a raw, natural moment. We spotted a leopardess, camouflaged in a tree. This elusive sighting highlighted the skill of our guides and the reserve's diverse wildlife. Lion cubs provided entertaining moments, with their playful interactions and youthful energy. A dramatic hippo fight demonstrated the intense territorial battles that occur in the delta's waterways. The power of these animals was very clear. These sightings, combined with the reserve's stunning landscapes, made our Moremi experience unforgettable.

KHWAI COMMUNITY RESERVE (3 NIGHTS)

Our three nights in the Khwai Concession offered a continuation of remarkable wildlife encounters. A beautiful adult male lion, patrolling his territory, displayed his regal power. We spent a fascinating late afternoon observing a spotted hyena den, witnessing the social dynamics of this often-misunderstood animal. Semi-aquatic red lechwe antelope gracefully crossed stunning lagoons, showcasing their unique adaptation to the wetland environment. A herd of mud-bathing elephants, including an adorable baby, provided a heartwarming spectacle. Finally, a stunning leopardess, diligently patrolling her territory, reminded us of the elusive beauty that thrives in this wild landscape.

SAVUTI AREA - CHOBE NATIONAL PARK (4 NIGHTS)

Our final mobile camping location, delivered a series of exceptional wildlife moments. A rare cheetah, spotted across the vast landscape, offered a thrilling encounter. En route, a stunning pair of male lions provided a majestic display of power. The undeniable highlight, however, was finding an African wild dog den. A large pack, with numerous puppies, created an unforgettable experience. Their protective instincts were on full display, as they even chased off a pair of unsuspecting warthogs. The pump pan waterhole teemed with activity, attracting kudu, impala, and a diverse array of birdlife, including the rare roan antelope. Elephants were plentiful, and the Marsh Pride of lions, congregating at the Rhinovlei waterhole, provided outstanding photographic opportunities. This final stop offered a truly stunning culmination to our mobile camping adventure.

CHOBE RIVER - PANGOLIN HOTEL AND PHOTO BOATS (3 NIGHTS)

Our transition to the Chobe River, with our stay at the Pangolin Hotel and use of their specialized photo boats, provided a unique perspective on Botswana's wildlife. The Chobe River's renowned birdlife was exceptional, offering close encounters with kingfishers, bee-eaters, guineafowl, marsh harriers, African fish eagles, and even a majestic Goliath heron. Elephants, along with kudu, impala, and giraffe, frequented the riverbanks for drinking and swimming, creating stunning photographic opportunities. This water-level view of the Chobe River's wildlife offered a truly fantastic and memorable conclusion to our Botswana photo safari.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Our thanks go out to the incredible Thru-the-lens Nature Safaris team. Nkosi and Frank, your expert guiding was absolutely crucial in securing those extraordinary photographs. The mobile tented camp crew, including the culinary wizard, Kelly, and the ever-helpful T-man, Mr T, Two and PK provided us with service and care that truly surpassed all expectations.

Richard, our boat captain extraordinaire, we’re immensely grateful for your skill and dedication in getting us perfectly positioned for those stunning water-level shots. And to the wonderful staff at the Pangolin Hotel, your hospitality was second to none.

Don, It’s always a privilege to join you and your groups on these incredible journeys, thanks for another great one!

Finally, to Loren, Wendy, Megan & Carmen, thank you for your wonderful company and for sharing in this Botswana photographic adventure. It was fantastic to meet you all.

Stu.

See some amazing wildlife photography by Don Getty, on his website here: dongettywildlifephotography.com