Published 28th Jun. 2021
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An oasis of comfort in the middle of Botswana's Kalahari desert, Jack's Camp is pitched on a low grassland knoll in an oasis of desert palms and Kalahari acacia, and is one of the original luxury camps in the area.
Ten stylish canvas tents with en-suite bathrooms and indoor and outdoor showers are set into a palm grove, and the camp's hub is a canvas mess tent that also houses a natural history museum, a library, an antique pool table and a well-stocked drinks chest. The latest addition to the camp is a refreshing plunge pool to cool off in the heat of the day.
The Makgadikgadi, a relic of one of the world's largest super-lakes, is unlike anywhere else on earth. A safari to Jack's Camp is a complete desert experience focusing on species unique to the area such as aardvark, gemsbuck and springbuck. During the wet season see the zebra and elephant migration and when they waters dry up speed through the bush on quad bikes.
All year round, activities include walking through the Kalahari with a gang of habituated (but wild) meerkats, walks with Zu'hoasi Bushmen Trackers for a glimpse into their ancient culture, lying out on the pans at night watching the planetarium show unfold overhead with horizon-to-horizon stars, trips to Chapman's Baobab, and game drives studying the desert adapted species.
Why We Love It
It is the only place where guests are virtually guaranteed to see the rare and elusive brown hyena
Yes, yes, the Okavango Delta offers incredible scenery and extraordinary wildlife encounters, but there are other places to visit - and ride - in Botswana. Take the ancient and parched lunar expanse of the Makgadikgadi salt pans.
For the last 25 years the legendary David and Robyn Foot have been leading horse safaris in Africa, and their latest project is this fantastic five-night riding safari, combining three nights at Camp Kalahari (sister property to Jack's Camp) with two nights fly camping out on the salt pans themselves.
As you meander along the shoreline of the remote and mysterious Makgadikgadi you are exploring this wild, unspoilt area the same way as the earliest explorers, hunters and missionaries did - on horseback. The highlight, however, is spending an afternoon with the traditional Zu'Hoasi Bushmen - an unforgettable and truly wonderful experience where they impart some of their ancient knowledge.
The dry season from May to October offers fast paced riding into the heart of the pans, while during the green season from November to April riding takes place during the last surviving migration of zebra and wildebeest in Southern Africa.
Why We Love It
David and Robyn Foot, who run the safaris, give a wonderful insight into the history of Livingstone, Selous and other intrepid Victorian explorers.
Having spent ample time in beautiful Botswana, our consultants' expertise allows us to tailor each trip to you, whether you’d rather have meerkats scramble over you in the sandy Mkadikgadi Pans or hop on a mountain bike safari in the Mashatu Reserve. We work with incredible guides to ensure you not only see wonderful wildlife but learn about local culture, too. In-country, our Concierges keep things running smoothly, while our trusty team of local partners go the extra mile to make your trip unforgettable. From honeymooners seeking ultimate luxury to multi-generational families needing space, we’ve got your accommodation sorted.
ENQUIRE NOWPractical advice and inspiration for your next trip
Channelling your inner cowboy and heading on a horse safari in Botswana is one of the ultimate safari experiences. With a variety of stunning landscapes available for exploration, it’s an incredible way of getting up close and personal with game in a way that just isn't possible in a traditional 4x4. You won't just be on a safari, you'll be in it. With the contrasting scenes of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, Thamalakane River and Okavango Delta in the nation’s arsenal, it's not hard to understand why Botswana horse safaris remain such a popular choice.
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Our team of destination experts will get to know you and your unique requirements for your holiday
We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities
All of our holidays include little extras designed to make a big difference to your trip, from fast-tracking you through airport check-in and security to our network of local Concierges
