Just over 2 weeks ago Petros and I (Nicole) set off on a Botswana Wildside BT14 with a group of 8 German and Swiss tourists. Eager to explore all that the wild could offer us, we returned with memories exceeding any of our expectations. The trip included several rare wildlife sightings, a fantastic group dynamic and the real bush experience.

From having an elephant cross the road right in front of us during our first lunch in Botswana to seeing lions as well as wild dogs on game walks in the Okavango Delta and viewing all of the big 5 in close proximity within 18h of entering the national parks in Botswana we knew we were on a lucky streak.
Further highlights that must be mentioned were the sunset cruises in the mokoros in the Delta as well as the cruise on the Chobe river. These provided excellent photo opportunities and once again let us witness numerous elephants, hippos, buffalos and crocodiles. Even the bird enthusiasts were more than satisfied with their sightings.

A fond topic of discussion among our tourist was the use of the ‘bushy bushy’: an African bush toilet with a view. Although providing a rather hot seat if the lid is left open during the midday sun; one could completely lose track of time while enjoying the surroundings.
The last aspect of the trip that may not be left unmentioned is the location of all of our bush camps. We were perfectly situated by waterholes or riverfronts, so that upon arrival in Chobe national park we could witness a whole grass plane full of antelopes going about their day. The locations also enabled us to hear the roars of lions, howling of hyaena and grunts of elephants right next to our tents at night; sounds I enviously look back upon when hearing the usual city noises.

All in all, we were saddened when the time came to say our goodbyes and will hold this trip in a very special place in our memories.