A2A Safaris - Botswana Campshttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/tags/botswana-campsenSeptember News – Duba Plains, Botswanahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/september-news-%E2%80%93-duba-plains-botswana<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p>September is a great month to spend time with the giants of Africa, elephants, as the water is drying up from most water holes making them follow the main streams. It is a warm month and to enjoy the cool breeze of the night that is complemented by the soothing smell of the wild sage one has to keep the tent flaps up. There is nothing that brings you closer to nature like getting a night surprise visit of an elephant coming to eat next to your tent in the full glow of the moon outside. Duba tents are built under the roofs of tall African Mangosteen trees, attracting elephants that hoover the small flowers that fall from it. It is always the first conversation of the morning breakfast as guests explain the elephant proximity to their bed; ”It was so close I could touch it.”<span id="more-9605"></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/untitled-9553.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9605];player=img;"><img class=" wp-image-9606 aligncenter" alt="untitled-9553" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/untitled-9553.jpg" width="553" height="369" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">It is evident that hippos are territorial as we see hippos still holding on to drying ponds of Duba. This is the time of the year where you can drive to a water pool to enjoy a sighting of hippos as they display their amusing character or their swimming skill. It is at this point when you will be able to see the monstrous teeth of this water mammal as they yawn and call, celebrating their existence.</p>
<p>The afternoon game drive never stops amazing all the way back to camp. With the use of the spotlight, some amazing sightings can be spotted. We’ve found the leopard feeding on a buffalo calf and a few times it has been spotted slinking through the concession in fear of meeting lions that rule the Duba concession. It has always been a dream for many to see an Aardvark and the dreams have been realized in the Duba paradise. The guides have been doing a great job of spotting these beautiful creatures that are mostly seen in the night. The aardwolf and pangolin have also been spotted on several game drives.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/untitled-9162.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9605];player=img;"><img class="aligncenter" alt="untitled-9162" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/untitled-9162.jpg" width="541" height="361" /></a></p>
<p>The Tsaro pride still continues its controversy. Over the last week we’ve seen for the first time the new male being challenged by the young male from the sub pride of 6 which occupies the western part of the concession. The new male who moves with 2 females has contributed highly to the separation of the pride and it has been a moment we’ve been waiting for to see him being challenged by one of the upcoming males in the sub-prides. He is about 6 years of age and the young male who is challenging him is believed to be of the same age if not younger. Guests had a great morning as they watched these 2 males roaring at each other and every now and then giving each other a snarl. It did not go into a battle but the young male kept pushing the dominant male back, marking around the invaded territory. This is what we are waiting to see; if the young male will win the territory or if there is a possibility of a coalition.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/untitled-8997.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9605];player=img;"><img class="aligncenter" alt="untitled-8997" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/untitled-8997.jpg" width="541" height="361" /></a></p>
<p>Lion and buffalo hunts still continue, with spectacular hunts happening regularly between the prides. As buffalos move from one area to another, they run into the territory of another sub-pride. We’ve seen the chase start next to camp, buffalos crossing the deep water before lions could make their catch. The lions then needed re-strategizing, as they fear deep water and rather choose to cross over the wooden bridge to get to their prey. The hunt will go for hours as the bull buffalos keep coming back to the rescue of the estranged beast. It therefore takes high anticipation and patience to experience this all to the end. The male lion has earned himself a descriptive tag of ‘lazy’ as he is seen lagging behind, sitting in the shade at every tree as the females keep the chase going, risking the sharp horn of the buffalos. What surprises many is that when the kill happens he is the first one to feed. It is always interesting to explain the role of the male lions around the fire as they are hardly seen doing anything except sitting in the shade and being pampered by females. Male lions act as protectors of the whole pride, therefore they need to eat and keep in good shape so that they can go around marking the territory and keep enemies away. They sometimes go into brutal fights if a new male comes in trying to take over. To prevent another male from taking over and killing all the young and breaking prides apart; the males need to fight with all their might to defend territories.</p>
<p>The Skimmer pride is seen often crossing in the Tsaro territory. We’ve realized that the pride is shy and prefers to walk in covers of the bushes fearing confrontation with the tsaro pride. The last time it was seen there were 2 young males and 2 sub-adult females, missing the adult female. They are mostly spotted eating on the carcasses that have been left behind by the Tsaro pride.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/untitled-8827-2.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9605];player=img;"><img class="size-large wp-image-9607 aligncenter" alt="untitled-8827-2" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/untitled-8827-2.jpg" width="541" height="361" /></a></p>
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</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/botswana-camps" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Botswana Camps</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/bushbuzz" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">BushBuzz</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/duba-plains-camp" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Duba Plains Camp</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/recently-spotted" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Recently Spotted</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/safari-experiences-news" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Safari Experiences News</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/botswana" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Botswana</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/botswana-luxury-safari" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Botswana Luxury Safari</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/elephants" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">elephants</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/great-plains-conservation" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Great Plains Conservation</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/hippo" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">hippo</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/lions" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">lions</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/safari" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Safari</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/wildlife" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Wildlife</a></div></div>Mon, 27 Oct 2014 09:56:41 +0000Anonymous1121 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/september-news-%E2%80%93-duba-plains-botswana#commentsAugust News – Explorers Camp, Botswanahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/august-news-%E2%80%93-explorers-camp-botswana<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p>On the newsletter front, Explorers has been somewhat quiet, we’ve been the sleepy sloths of newsletter writers, but really, it’s been quite the contrary here at our beautiful little camp on the Selinda Spillway. So, in essence, this is not so much of an “August Newsletter”, but rather a “Peak Season Newsletter” where I will try, despite my unrelenting urge to ramble on for hours with camp stories, to give a (somewhat) brief account of the wonderful highlights we’ve had so far.</p>
<p><span id="more-9577"></span></p>
<p>We’ve been busy, in the best kind of way, and that’s an understatement. I suppose the hi-light of our last newsletter was a recount of 13 beautiful painted dogs chasing and killing an impala in camp just meters from where we stood, and, without sounding too flippant or blasé about what I know some people will wait their whole lives to see, it’s become such a regular occurrence in camp I hardly bat an eyelid anymore. No, not really, that’s a lie… of epic proportions. There is SO much batting of eyelids and excitement each time it happens I can sometimes hardly contain myself, nor fumble fast or furiously enough to get my camera on the right settings as I dash out my little tented office to capture the action. Had I been just a few seconds faster, in this very picture would be a beautiful, enormous male kudu that had just run through the spillway from a pack of five wild dogs at sunset. After almost a half hour of running through camp, crashing into guests tents, being cornered in the kitchen and chased over the canoes, the kudu was lucky enough to escape, but not so lucky, I fear, was the impala that went dashing past the dinner table past some flabbergasted guests later that night from the same pack. Safe to say, we have certainly not been short of any wild dog action at Explorers.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/PIC-1.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9577];player=img;"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9580" alt="PIC-1" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/PIC-1.jpg" width="599" height="383" /></a></p>
<p>I seem to be slightly predisposed to a slight sunset obsession, I just love the light and the colours and the beauty of them, and really try always to make the most of every single one. Come to Explorers and there WILL, without doubt, be a sunset celebration of sorts.</p>
<p>A sunset bath on the Spillway…</p>
<p><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/PIC-2.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9577];player=img;"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9581" alt="PIC-2" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/PIC-2.jpg" width="600" height="330" /></a></p>
<p>A sunset dinner…</p>
<p><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/PIC-3.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9577];player=img;"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9582" alt="PIC-3" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/PIC-3.jpg" width="600" height="372" /></a></p>
<p>A sunset lion sighting on the spillway as you canoe past… not such a regular occurrence, but amazing luck for those guests who saw these two beautiful males come right to the waters edge for a drink as they made their way to our “sunset spot” for sundowners.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/PIC-4-.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9577];player=img;"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9578" alt="PIC 4-" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/PIC-4-.jpg" width="600" height="376" /></a></p>
<p>Lionesses love a good sunset too…</p>
<p><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/PIC-5.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9577];player=img;"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9583" alt="PIC-5" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/PIC-5.jpg" width="267" height="400" /></a></p>
<p>The good thing about these sunsets, is there’s one EVERY single day. How lucky is that?</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/PIC-6.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9577];player=img;"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9584" alt="PIC-6" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/PIC-6.jpg" width="600" height="400" /></a></p>
<p>The months of June and July were filled with fort-building, tree-climbing, chocolate-cake-devouring, bow-and-arrow-making two legged little delights who learnt all about our beautiful animals, conservation and how to make an abominable mess, I mean “fort” out of every single piece of furniture and cushion in sight. Beautiful work, boys.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/PIC-7.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9577];player=img;"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9585" alt="PIC-7" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/PIC-7.jpg" width="600" height="384" /></a></p>
<p>They were really quite sweet and passed their little quiz on their last night in camp with flying colours and a “Conservation Ambassador” certificate to show for it.They learnt very fast that keeping quiet on game drives and listening to instructions had all sorts of fun rewards: fishing, canoeing, playing soccer with the staff and helping in the kitchen. As a caveat to this invitation for all children to come and have fun at Explorers, be warned that they WILL fall in love with our guide Kane and leaving for the next camp might cause a bit of a scene.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/PIC-8.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9577];player=img;"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9586" alt="PIC-8" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/PIC-8.jpg" width="600" height="371" /></a></p>
<p>Paddling down the spillway past a herd of elephant with your new bushman friend in Botswana, as you do when you’re a little boy…</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The sightings at Explorers have been mind-blowing and recently, not a day goes by when guests aren’t coming back with stories of playful lion cubs, beautiful wild dog puppies, leopards up trees, lions on the move, cheetahs resting in the shade, kills, chases, you name it.. it’s been incredible. We’ve had leopard in camp, lions roaring through the night, hippos grunting, regular visits and loud whoops from hyenas, honey badgers causing havoc, buffalo grazing outside our tents, wild dog puppies chirping and playing with the hammock, a cacophony of beautiful sounds… we really are deep in the bush here at Explorers and I may be slightly biased but SERIOUSLY, are we not the coolest camp in the whole of Botswana?</p>
<p>Going into the dry period now, the natural pans are drying up, bringing the elephants, as well as the herds of buffalo, closer to camp and along the spillway for better grazing, creating wonderful opportunities for guests to see them from their tents, around the lunch table, peeping over showers, whilst on the canoes and out on walks. Sightings on foot have been excellent too and long, hard walks have been rewarded with surprise picnics in the bush…</p>
<p><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/PIC-9.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9577];player=img;"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9587" alt="PIC-9" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/PIC-9.jpg" width="600" height="400" /></a> <a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/PIC-10.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9577];player=img;"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9588" alt="PIC-10" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/PIC-10.jpg" width="600" height="340" /></a></p>
<p>For those of you who haven’t yet met our beautiful Explorers chef… this is Tshidi, lamb-shank-cooking, carrot-cake-baking guru.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/PIC-11.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9577];player=img;"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9589" alt="PIC-11" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/PIC-11.jpg" width="600" height="400" /></a></p>
<p>Tshidi and I have big plans to play our small part in the “Rhinos Without Borders” Project (moving 100 rhinos to safety from South Africa to Botswana) and are working on a secret project called “Recipes for Rhinos”, so stay tuned for updates on that one. Kane, our Explorers guide, has been known to be fairly competitive and equally as dedicated to the project, agreeing to donate $5 of every tip he makes towards the Rhino Project. Team Explorers is on it.</p>
<p>So, when i’m next not busy planning picnics, setting sundowners, filling bubble baths, lighting candles, dancing with my housekeepers to old Dolly Parton tracks, chasing hornbills from the muesli bowl and fluffing cushions, I’ll be sure to keep you updated on all the weird and wonderful happenings at Explorers. Until next month…</p>
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</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/botswana-camps" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Botswana Camps</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/bushbuzz" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">BushBuzz</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/recently-spotted" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Recently Spotted</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/safari-experiences-news" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Safari Experiences News</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/selinda-explorers-camp" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Selinda Explorers Camp</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/botswana" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Botswana</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/great-plains-conservation" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Great Plains Conservation</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/leopard" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">leopard</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/selinda-reserve" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Selinda Reserve</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/the-last-lions" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">The Last Lions</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/wild-dog" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Wild Dog</a></div></div>Tue, 23 Sep 2014 07:33:28 +0000Anonymous1096 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/august-news-%E2%80%93-explorers-camp-botswana#commentsAugust news – Zarafa Camp, Botswanahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/august-news-%E2%80%93-zarafa-camp-botswana<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p>August</p>
<p>Zarafa and its Dhow Suites would like to thank the many American citizens who made the long trip to Africa for their safari!</p>
<p>For our camp, August is traditionally an ‘American month’ with around 60% of our guests coming from overseas and this year was no exception. We wish you all safe travels back home and we hope to see you next winter. Oh! And for those of you who enjoy flexible work arrangements or are retired, please do not be a stranger and visit us even earlier. In November for example, it is a completely different ball game out here!</p>
<p>Weather-wise, August has ‘played’ us. Pretending to give us an exceptionally warm winter in the beginning of the month, but a few very cold and windy days right at the very end. We say; “do not worry about things you cannot control!” – as you understand, we (luckily) have very little problems in our little safari bubble.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/EskayCristofina1.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9540];player=img;"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-9544" alt="Eskay&Cristofina" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/EskayCristofina1-300x200.jpg" width="300" height="200" /></a></p>
<p>One of the greater thing about August though are the stunning sunsets. As some of you might know, we get to see these typical red and orange colors this time of year as our neighbor country Namibia has ‘controlled burns’ to fertilize their land. The smoke and dust particles that remain in the air create these beautiful colors we enjoy every day. In the morning you can witness what we call, ‘the shadow of the earth’, which is a blue edge upon the horizon after which the sky colors soft pink. In one word: gorgeous.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Sunset.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9540];player=img;"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-9542" alt="Sunset" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Sunset-300x200.jpg" width="300" height="200" /></a></p>
<p>But, enough about the beauty of the Botswana horizon. You want to know what the game has been like! August was the month of the cats and the cubs. Ask yourself, is there anything cuter than 6 lion cubs tumbling over each other, chasing their moms tail? Well, maybe (just maybe), it could be the leopard cub our guides have been spotting near our home!</p>
<p>Other great news is that the guides have located a wild dog den with puppies (hurray!). More information on these little ones will hopefully follow soon, as the den is still closed for sightings until the pups are at least 6 till 8 weeks of age. These protocols are important to ensure a healthy and relaxed relationship between the dogs and the cars coming to visit them. Also, as any parent will understand, raising these little fur balls is not always easy. Especially not when you consider the possible dangers of their environment. Too many car tracks towards the den might attract predators like lions and in this way humans might influence the ‘circle of life’ before the pups and their guardians even have a chance out here.</p>
<p>On a different note, those who follow our Social Media channels might have noticed that our very own Dereck & Beverly Joubert, have visited us this month. This always goes hand-in-hand with some new furniture and Zarafa has gained new pictures out of Beverly’s collection on its walls. It becomes harder and harder to pick your personal favorite in the main area…</p>
<p>Now, attention to all wine lovers! Next to some fabulous(-ly comfortable) leather chairs in the library, our camp is also enjoying a brand new wine list (hurray #2!). We are so excited to present to you a selection of excellent wines ranging from different vineyards that share our passion for quality, as well as a sense of responsibility to our environment and the communities we serve. We cannot wait to start spoiling our coming guests with vineyard tasting evenings (or lunches, brunches? – it is always 5 ‘o clock somewhere in the world!).<br />
News from the kitchen includes our Chef Mhange who has joined Katherine and her team to delight us with his wonderful personality and cooking skills at Zarafa and the Dhow Suites.<br />
One of their new delights includes a cracker that is made from a variation of seeds, such as sunflower and pumpkin seeds. Tastes great, no gluten! The kitchen team has also cooked repeatedly in the bush this month, surprising our guests with lunches and dinners in the wild and even a dinner on the boat.</p>
<p>And on that happy note, we wish you all a fabulous start of September. We will keep you posted and we promise that we will not let you wait for next months’ newsletter to hear from Zarafa and its Dhow Suites.</p>
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</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/botswana-camps" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Botswana Camps</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/bushbuzz" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">BushBuzz</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/headlines" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Headlines</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/safari-experiences-news" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Safari Experiences News</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/zarafa-camp" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Zarafa Camp</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/botswana" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Botswana</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/botswana-luxury-safari" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Botswana Luxury Safari</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/dereck-and-beverly-joubert" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Dereck and Beverly Joubert</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/elephants" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">elephants</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/great-plains-conservation" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Great Plains Conservation</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/leopard" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">leopard</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/leopards" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Leopards</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/lion" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Lion</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/lions" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">lions</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/safari" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Safari</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/selinda-camp" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Selinda Camp</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/selinda-reserve" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Selinda Reserve</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/wild-dog" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Wild Dog</a></div></div>Fri, 05 Sep 2014 15:56:04 +0000Anonymous1080 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/august-news-%E2%80%93-zarafa-camp-botswana#commentsAugust news – Duba Plains – Botswanahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/august-news-%E2%80%93-duba-plains-%E2%80%93-botswana<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p>Winter still lingers on. It seems like this year we’ve had a long winter as it’s unusual in the month of August to have freezing mornings, cool afternoons and chilly nights. Hot water bottles (bush babies) were handy in the night as one surprise everyone appreciated; ponchos also are put to work in the morning game drives making your safari comfortable as could be. Duba fire keeps blazing under the clear sky, making star gazing enjoyable at all times!!</p>
<p>Game viewing has been extra amazing with the controversial Tsaro pride still keeping us guessing. <span id="more-9547"></span>The Tsaro pride still continues to rule the Duba concession and the rivalry between the trio has left an interesting phenomenon as to why this family has become foes. The group of 3 (2 females and the dominant male) occupies a large portion of the territory while a group of 6(a sub-adult male and sub-adult female about 5 years old, 2 adult females about 12 years, male and female cubs about a year old) sticking to the western portion of the concession and a group of 5(1 adult female, 1 sub-adult male about 1.5 years old, 3 year old sub-female and 2 young males; 3.5 yrs old and 4yrs old) occupying the north of the concession.</p>
<p>Buffalos find themselves trapped between these aggressive hunters, having to lose one of their own whichever direction they take. This month alone we’ve witnessed more than 8 buffalo kills by the group of 6 which has the advantage of number and also having 2 of the experienced adult female hunters. This group has been seen on a couple of occasions taking down red lechwe in the absence of buffalos. The big question that still leaves many amazed is what will happen with these lions as they continue to practice in-breeding. The sub-adult male who is 5 years was seen mating with his sister who’s the same age and it still remains to be seen if the female will conceive.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image008.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9547];player=img;"><img class=" wp-image-9548 alignnone" alt="image008" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image008.jpg" width="614" height="409" /></a></p>
<p>The break of the pride has affected the group of 5 with only one experienced female hunter (MmaDitau) badly. The other lions in the group have no experience of hunting buffalos and were seen following them for 9 days trying but failing to catch. On one occasion they were seen at Old Mokoro station hunting. They badly injured a buffalo calf and were chased off by the herd. They had then given up on the hunt for that day as the buffalos moved away and the calf was found dead the next day by the guides but the lions missed that!</p>
<p>The Skimmer pride comprising of one adult female, one sub adult female about 4 years, a sub-adult male and female both 2 and half years is still seen overlapping into the Tsaro pride territory. For a few days the pride was found on the east of the concession feeding on a baby elephant carcass. This pride is very skittish when seen and always tries to avoid confrontation with the Tsaro pride.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/The-hunt.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9547];player=img;"><img class="alignnone wp-image-9550" alt="The hunt" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/The-hunt.jpg" width="614" height="410" /></a>The baboons that stay in camp on top of the tall jackal berry trees have attracted a male leopard who predates on them. Twice this month we’ve heard the baboons calling as we were sitting by the fire and when checking out what the alarm call could be about we found this male leopard just next to the main area causing the baboon commotion. A female leopard was spotted out in the concession on top of a tree with a red lechwe kill and at the time it was found it was seen feeding on a large grey mongoose. The leopards in Duba are finding abundant food as the concession hosts a great number of red lechwe and baboons.</p>
<p>Swarovski binoculars have become a great addition for bird watchers in the rich Islands of the Okavango Delta, Duba Plains. Some of the rare raptors like the Pel’s fishing owl brings a big tick for bird watchers who seem very thrilled when they see it in Duba. A Martial Eagle was spotted on one occasion feeding on a monitor lizard and was spotted again feeding a spur winged goose. Giant Eagle Owls and Fish Eagles are spotted on almost every game drive.</p>
<p>The other bird of interest that is found on the open grasslands of Duba would be the Rosy Throated Long Claw. The intra-African migrants like the Carmine bee-eater and the yellow-billed kite seem to have reached the Delta early this year. The Carmine bee-eaters are mostly seen flying alongside the vehicles as they catch insects disturbed by the movement of vehicles. The palaeactic migrants like ruffs have already shown up as well.</p>
<p>We are anticipating an amazing month of September as the grass is drying up and buffalos weakening in due course.</p>
<p>(Images courtesy of Mokopi Ipolokeng and Sylvan Albert)</p>
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</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/botswana-camps" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Botswana Camps</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/bushbuzz" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">BushBuzz</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/duba-plains-camp" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Duba Plains Camp</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/botswana" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Botswana</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/botswana-luxury-safari" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Botswana Luxury Safari</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/leopard" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">leopard</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/lions" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">lions</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/the-last-lions" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">The Last Lions</a></div></div>Fri, 05 Sep 2014 09:52:54 +0000Anonymous1081 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/august-news-%E2%80%93-duba-plains-%E2%80%93-botswana#commentsJune news – Duba Plains, Botswanahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/june-news-%E2%80%93-duba-plains-botswana<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p style="text-align: left;">The month of June means our beanies are out and the elephants are in! As winter settles on Duba Plains the bush dries up and the water levels rise to the maximum, both these changes making for fantastic game viewing. Game drives have been extra exciting as our “Puddle Jumper” Toyota Land Cruisers become amphibious to get around the concession.</p>
<p><span id="more-9504"></span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/trucks-in-water-2.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9504];player=img;"><img class="wp-image-9515 alignright" alt="trucks in water-2" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/trucks-in-water-2-1024x682.jpg" width="430" height="286" /></a></p>
<p>Life in and around camp is always entertaining as there is no way of telling which animals will decide to stroll through camp. At this time of year elephants are a part of daily life and are particularly active at night. You hear fantastic nocturnal sounds from hippos grazing, elephants feeding and lions roaring. On occasion, the baboons wake up to alert everyone that there is a leopard strolling along the very pathway that you’ve walked, escorted by your guide, back to your tent after dinner. This month in particular we have seen leopard tracks through camp on several occasions and some guests were even lucky enough to spot a young female from the dinner table one night!</p>
<p>Around mid-month the lions were after the buffalo only a few minutes’ drive from camp. There was a lot of splashing through the water and the face off lasted for days before the lions finally won, this time anyway. At this time of year the buffalo start becoming weaker due to scarcity of food so the lions tend to have the upper hand but they do still need to deal with all the water. This also means that the buffalos have had to migrate in order to look for food but they always come back in the end.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Lion-for-OT-2.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9504];player=img;"><img class=" wp-image-9511 aligncenter" alt="Lion for OT-2" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Lion-for-OT-2-1024x686.jpg" width="614" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>We had some very lucky sightings of the elusive Pel’s Fishing Owl. Guests spotted one in a tree just as they drove out of camp on their very first game drive. Just three days later one of our guides, Kops, spotted another one from the front of house area and we could all have a good look at it before enjoying our dinner.</p>
<p>Leopard sightings have remained prolific throughout the month, in some cases guests staying for three nights saw two different leopards and on every game drive at that! We are all very excited about seeing leopard so often since in this area they are more rare than usual. Photographers got some fantastic shots of leopards in trees and even with a baboon kill.</p>
<p>The month ended on a sadder note, when the dominant male lion and his two lionesses attacked a lioness of the Tsaro pride. The fight happened near the bridge shortly after everyone had gone back to camp for a snooze after lunch. We heard a huge commotion and decided to check it out. The lioness was badly outnumbered and suffered some serious injuries. She sadly died the following morning. This lioness was well known for her incredible hunting skills and was indeed an expert in buffalo hunting. She was close to 10 years old and although she bore many scars from the endless collisions with buffalo and other lions she was still strong and in good condition.</p>
<p>This sort of event always affects us but we need to remember not to place our human feelings on these wild animals. Lions are a vulnerable species but are not at risk from hunters or poachers but from themselves as well. Witnessing this fight and the death of a lioness is never easy on the emotions but we are fortunate to see nature in its truest and rawest form.</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/lion-fighting-21.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9504];player=img;"><img class=" wp-image-9513 aligncenter" alt="lion fighting-2" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/lion-fighting-21-1024x682.jpg" width="614" height="409" /></a></p>
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</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/botswana-camps" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Botswana Camps</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/bushbuzz" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">BushBuzz</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/duba-plains-camp" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Duba Plains Camp</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/headlines" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Headlines</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/recently-spotted" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Recently Spotted</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/safari-experiences-news" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Safari Experiences News</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/botswana" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Botswana</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/leopard" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">leopard</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/lions" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">lions</a></div></div>Wed, 09 Jul 2014 07:03:23 +0000Anonymous1022 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/june-news-%E2%80%93-duba-plains-botswana#commentsCommunity News – Selinda Reserve, Botswanahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/community-news-%E2%80%93-selinda-reserve-botswana<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Community-3.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9463];player=img;"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-9474" alt="Community 3" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Community-3-300x225.jpg" width="460" height="345" /></a></p>
<p>June 2014 COMMUNITY OUTREACH</p>
<p>The Great Plains Conservation team took to the road this June when they visited Gudigwa primary school for their annual Conservation Ambassador Workshop. This year’s workshop deliberately focused on the subject of natural resources. It seemed an essential subject to discuss in order to create awareness of the day-to-day usage of their natural resources, and to empower the students with the capability to differentiate between renewable and non-renewable resources, and how these form part of their daily lives.<br />
The intention of the Outreach Team is to encourage these “future adults” to develop habits and skills that will allow them to make sustainable decisions in their lives, now and in the future. The weekend workshop began with an introduction of the topic, clearly defining what natural resources are, and how they affect/are affected by their immediate community. It was equally important to identify these resources within the context of the village of Gudigwa.<br />
Our young conservation ambassadors were quick to understand the relationship between their natural resources and their basic needs, in that without these resources, our basic needs for water, food, shelter and air, would not be met.<br />
The distinction between renewable and non-renewable resources had to be emphasized, as they both determine the future of their environment, as well as their own lives and those of future generations.<br />
Our ambassadors had never made the distinction between renewable and non-renewable resources and thus were unaware that the impact of rapidly reducing these resources would have a devastating impact on their and their children’s future.<br />
Our lessons on renewable and non-renewable resources consisted of identifying and describing the processes involved in making our day-to-day items such as, paper, tins and plastic. The students understood these processes and that most of the items that they use on a daily basis, derive from natural resources. The Outreach Team educated them on the fact that when it comes to non-renewable resources, we must collectively conserve them for as long as possible. This conversation led to lesson on Recycling, Reducing and Reusing waste (the 3’R) – a subject that was taught at one of our year-end camps to the ambassadors. It was important to make the connection between the 3 R’s, and the Conservation of natural resources. It was highlighted to the students that they could already be practicing these conservation exercises without even knowing. For instance, many of them re-use plastic bottles when they go to their cattle posts (cattle farms) to store milk in. Another means of conserving natural resources that was discussed is that of reducing the amounts of fire wood used in each household. The entire group agreed that it would be better to use dead trees, or those that have fallen over (pushed over by the elephants in the area when feeding), again depicting the inter-dependence of all things in the environment. A lot of time was spent making sure that all understood the issue of deforestation, as it affects them and their immediate environment. All of the households in Gudigwa, as well as the Primary School, depend on wood for fire, to cook, and to heat water for bathing, so it was essential for the students to realise the impact that they were making within this environment, and that they can make a significant change by reducing the amount of trees used.</p>
<p>Apart from the class lessons, the students conducted some field research in various areas around the school identifying renewable and non–renewable resources. The class was split into groups that conducted investigations in various areas around the school. They did a fantastic job of identifying the different resources, and describing the health of each area. The outreach team took this opportunity to discuss the recent killings of Vultures within the Gudigwa area. It was important to address the danger and impact that killing these scavengers have on the environment. Each group gave presentations on the importance of not killing these creatures, and that it has the potential of devastating their natural environment. In order to drive the message through further, the outreach team explained the devastation that the poison used could cause not only to the lives of the wild animals in their area, but also to them as people.</p>
<p>The workshop ended on a high note, with amazing positive energy from both students and teachers. The outreach team intends on continuing on their mission to enlighten the conservation ambassadors of Guidgwa Village, and to encourage them to come up with creative ways of conserving their natural resources, for themselves and future generations.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Community-2.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbalbum-9463];player=img;" title="Community 2"><img width="150" height="129" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Community-2-150x129.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="Community 2" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Community-1.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbalbum-9463];player=img;" title="Community 1"><img width="150" height="129" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Community-1-150x129.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="Community 1" /></a></p>
<p> </p>
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</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/botswana-camps" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Botswana Camps</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/bushbuzz" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">BushBuzz</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/community-submitted-news" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Community Submitted News</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/get-involved" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Get Involved</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/selinda-camp" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Selinda Camp</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/selinda-canoe-trails" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Selinda Canoe Trails</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/selinda-explorers-camp" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Selinda Explorers Camp</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/zarafa-camp" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Zarafa Camp</a></div></div>Tue, 01 Jul 2014 14:14:06 +0000Anonymous1002 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/community-news-%E2%80%93-selinda-reserve-botswana#commentsMay News -Selinda Explorers Camp, Botswanahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/may-news-selinda-explorers-camp-botswana<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p style="text-align: left;">So much has been happening in May at our little Explorers Camp on the Selinda Spillway – Northern Botswana, and where to even begin seems somewhat of a challenge. We’ve had an absolutely fantastic month, not only for the spectacular sightings but for the incredible fun we’ve been having with our guests and staff. They say a picture tells a thousand words, so, here’s one thousand to start off with the rarest mammal in southern Africa right in the centre of camp – A Wild Dog.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/1.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9425];player=img;"><img class="size-medium wp-image-9426 aligncenter" alt="1" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/1-300x200.jpg" width="300" height="200" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>VIP Guest – Africa Wild Dog</em></p>
<p>Oh yes, a VIP guest arrived at Explorers just a few days ago and, needless to say, the staff weren’t entirely enthused at the idea of welcoming this particular visitor with the usual warm smile and face towel! And, of course, he didn’t come alone… he brought with him the rest of the pack of thirteen who chased, brought down and devoured an exhausted impala as she dashed past the office, scrambled through the kitchen and all around camp until eventually the calamity ended in the car park…THIS happened just a few meters away from us. We could hardly believe it, our hearts were racing!</p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/2.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9425];player=img;"><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-9427" alt="2" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/2-300x184.jpg" width="300" height="184" /></a><i><br /></i></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Wild dog sightings have been aplenty and we’re seeing them in and around camp on almost a daily basis. Kane, our regular wild animal whisperer, entertainer and guide extraordinaire, witnessed an equally exciting and perhaps more dramatic hunt at our nearby hippo pool with his guests on foot as the dogs dashed past them, ran through the water, drowned, and, as only they can do, devoured a young female kudu with lightning speed as the sun was starting to set and the sundowners had just been poured. An absolutely once in a life time sighting as the kudu’s alarms brought in some daring hyenas to the scene, causing a battle between the two rivals as they repeatedly tried in vain to push the dogs away from their kill. The atmosphere was electric and there was an absolute cacophony of squeals, yelps and bellows with even the hippos getting out the water, sniffing around and joining in on the action. All very exciting and indeed promising signs that these beautiful painted dogs are denning nearby and we hope to discover just exactly where very soon.</p>
<p><a style="text-align: -webkit-center;" href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/3.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9425];player=img;"><img class="size-medium wp-image-9428 aligncenter" alt="3" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/3-300x197.jpg" width="300" height="197" /></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>In other news… it is getting a whole lot drier (and cooler) now as we are approaching the winter months and the animal sightings are vastly improving. The zebras are starting to come back from their seasonal migration route in the Savuti Marsh/Mababe Depression and we’ve had a few visits from the dagga boys (old male buffalos) as the buffalos start their search for clearer waters and better grazing along the Spillway. General game is also good at the moment and we’re seeing plenty of giraffe, impala and kudu. We’re also starting to see large herds of elephants along the Spillway and around Explorers Camp.</p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/4.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9425];player=img;"><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-9429" alt="4" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/4-218x300.jpg" width="218" height="300" /></a><i><br /></i></p>
<p align="center"><em> That’s me at the back, paddling gently down the spillway and past a herd of elephant on our way to a beautifully set up bush breakfast at Hippo Pools. (image – Alex Walters).</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Predator sightings are top of the tops here at Explorers and guests have been treated to some incredible sightings of leopards, cheetahs, and lions; the hunts, the kills and the many disputes between the different groups with leopard tracks right through camp, nightly visits from hyenas and a kill so close by the Wapuka Lion Pride of eight that we could hear them fighting over their waterbuck from camp. Our guests were lucky enough to witness the entire thing from start to finish but hearing it all from camp was just as exciting.</p>
<p align="center"><i> </i></p>
<p><img class="size-medium wp-image-9430 aligncenter" style="text-align: -webkit-center;" alt="5" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/5-300x178.jpg" width="300" height="178" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Walks have been very popular here at Explorers with plenty of spectacular sightings; leopards, lions on kills, wild dogs and elephant … all on foot and expertly guided by Kane who, when he isn’t out tracking animals and sharing his bushman skills with our guests, is planning highly competitive canoe races down the Spillway with the help of myself, the new camp manager at Explorers, and our fantastic team. Have a look…</p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><i></i><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-9431" alt="6" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/6-300x189.jpg" width="300" height="189" /><i><br /></i></p>
<p> </p>
<p>We saw in these particular guests a few seriously competitive streaks and decided to put their paddling skills to the test. Teams were chosen, canoes were marked with brightly coloured names, staff were out to support with posters and cheers, celebratory champagne was on ice and prizes were laid out along with some serious rules and regulations from Kane (aka “The Ref”) and the support team; camera crew, medical rescue and of course our friendly barman who was on standby with emergency G&Ts at the finish line.</p>
<p align="center"><i></i><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-9432" alt="7" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/7-300x200.jpg" width="300" height="200" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center">The afternoon was filled with fun, sun and smiles all round and is one we will certainly never forget.</p>
<p align="center"><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-9433" alt="8" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/8-300x206.jpg" width="300" height="206" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center">Our guests at Explorers seem always to be a little quirky, adventurous and full of fun and that’s just the way we like them.</p>
<p><img class="size-medium wp-image-9434 aligncenter" alt="9" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/9-300x196.jpg" width="300" height="196" /></p>
<p>See what I mean?! Yes, that is indeed a guest donning Selinda Reserve staff uniform! On their request, our guests swopped roles and attire with the staff for the night and everyone enjoyed a meal cooked by them that evening, what a treat! The guests lit the lanterns, served the drinks, set out the chairs and shared stories around the camp fire. There was signing, dancing and lots and lots of laughter that night.<img class="size-medium wp-image-9435 aligncenter" alt="10" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/10-300x198.jpg" width="300" height="198" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p>The last few weeks seem to have been filled with birthdays, anniversaries, newly weds on honeymoon and all sorts of reasons to celebrate and completely spoil our guests. We have been in our absolute hosting, styling, magic-dust sprinkling element – setting up romantic dinners under the glowing light of our candle chandelier hanging from the old mopane tree, arranging copper baths brimming with bubbles under the stars.</p>
<p><img class="size-medium wp-image-9436 aligncenter" alt="11" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/11-300x194.jpg" width="300" height="194" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p>We have also been setting up cosy spots using our Swahili style rugs with floor cushions, blankets and Amarula around crackling fires and Kane has been in charge of the fishing, giraffe dung spitting competitions, practical jokes and all things fun, along with providing guests with the incredible game viewing experiences that he’s become so well known for.</p>
<p>We’re a great team and proving that anything and everything is possible and happening at Selinda Explorers Camp. It’s been a fantastic month and we are certainly looking forward to what June has in store for us…</p>
<p> </p>
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</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/botswana-camps" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Botswana Camps</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/bushbuzz" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">BushBuzz</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/headlines" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Headlines</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/recently-spotted" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Recently Spotted</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/safari-experiences-news" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Safari Experiences News</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/selinda-explorers-camp" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Selinda Explorers Camp</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/botswana-luxury-safari" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Botswana Luxury Safari</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/dereck-and-beverly-joubert" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Dereck and Beverly Joubert</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/great-plains-conservation" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Great Plains Conservation</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/hippos" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">hippos</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/leopard" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">leopard</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/the-last-lions" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">The Last Lions</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/wild-dog" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Wild Dog</a></div></div>Wed, 11 Jun 2014 06:21:23 +0000Anonymous985 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/may-news-selinda-explorers-camp-botswana#commentsMay News – Duba Plains Camp, Botswanahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/may-news-%E2%80%93-duba-plains-camp-botswana<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p>Two things come to mind at Duba at the start of the floods. The thrill of seeing water in huge amounts as well as the logistical challenges that comes with the floods. At the end of the day the answer is just simple; these are not the first floods we’ve been through and not the highest we’ve seen, therefore pre-planning plays a big part. May is a month of many activities, Elephants migrating to areas where there’s water, floods rising and delta islands get smaller, roads coming underwater.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/IMG_6350.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9409];player=img;"><img class="size-medium wp-image-9068 aligncenter" alt="IMG_6350" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/IMG_6350-300x225.jpg" width="300" height="225" /></a></p>
<p>Boating and fishing has become a special activity of the day. A few guests have gone fishing and the aim was to catch the Tiger fish. We were about to declare that there were no tiger fishes in the waters of Duba until recently when John Pierre (guest) caught a tiger fish just close to camp.</p>
<p><img class="size-medium wp-image-9411 aligncenter" alt="tiger" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/tiger-300x182.jpg" width="300" height="182" /></p>
<p>Winter days are short and cool. The best way to maximize on the day is by using siesta time for a short boat cruise or a fishing excursion which is the best way to enjoy the sun as it starts warming up the day slowly. The water is just enjoyable watching it meandering through the channels of the Okavango giving that feel of; “Water is life’.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/duba-headlines.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9409];player=img;"><img class="size-medium wp-image-8097 aligncenter" alt="duba-headlines" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/duba-headlines-300x167.jpg" width="300" height="167" /></a></p>
<p>The start of winter is normally felt in the month of May. The camp has to pull in some additional touches like hot water bottles in the bed and on the morning game drives, This is the best time to visit Botswana for those that don’t like hot days of the summer. Ponchos become very handy and the morning coffee is highly appreciated. Nothing beats breakfast around the fire and watching baboons wake up on the near-by trees. There are also far fewer mosquitoes which is always welcome.</p>
<p>Sightings have been great. A lot of people have either read or heard about the pangolin. This is a true fact; <b>“Pangolins have poor vision and hearing, but their sense of smell is quite strong. They do not have teeth and are unable to chew. Instead, they have long sticky tongues that they use to catch the insects they feed on.” </b>A lot have left Duba with their dreams fulfilled after seeing this illusive scaly anteater in the wild.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/untitled-3687-2.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9409];player=img;"><img class="size-medium wp-image-9352 aligncenter" alt="untitled-3687-2" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/untitled-3687-2-200x300.jpg" width="200" height="300" /></a></p>
<p>The beginning of the Month was dominated by leopard sightings. There has been days when the female leopard was seen with a kudu kill up the tree. Its announcement is usually by the baboons that sleep on the Duba Island on the jackal berry trees. The guides have great tracking skills as the leopard is hard to spot, and normally it is a combination of skill and bush experience that make it possible for these magnificent cats to be seen.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/untitled-3955-3.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9409];player=img;"><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-9354 aligncenter" alt="untitled-3955-3" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/untitled-3955-3-300x200.jpg" width="300" height="200" /></a></p>
<p>The dominant male lion is still sticking around with the 2 females and keeping the rest of the Tsaro pride on the outskirts of the concession. It is once again a great transition to watch in the animal behavior. Taking steps back into history, back to the time of the Duba Boys who used to rule the Duba territory; leading a big pride that needed to eat and always hunting for bigger meals to feed the whole pride. Buffalos were the main target and the lions cooperated to make a kill.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/P1010829-800x600.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9409];player=img;"><img class="size-medium wp-image-8809 aligncenter" alt="P1010829 (800x600)" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/P1010829-800x600-300x225.jpg" width="300" height="225" /></a></p>
<p>Male lions are known to lag behind when it comes to hunting. Duba males have played a significant role in the change of the structure of the Tsaro pride as well as playing a big part in the controversy of the changing relationship in the pride.</p>
<p>Male lions have been known through ages to kill cubs when taking over a pride just for them to introduce their genes. This has been visible in Duba with the change of males in the pride. When the Duba boys died of old age, the Skimmer male who’s been sticking around waiting for his chance to become the dominant male jumped in. When he came in most of the cubs were already aged and he groomed them as part of the pride. Starting at a tender age the lions in the Tsaro pride learn to hunt a buffalo, learning all the tactics of taking them down without being injured. It is through cooperation from all females and sometimes the help of the male that makes the hunts a success.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Sel-Mar-headlines.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9409];player=img;"><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-7864 aligncenter" alt="Sel-Mar-headlines" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Sel-Mar-headlines-300x167.jpg" width="300" height="167" /></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>The Skimmer male together with the Tsaro pride have been very successful in their hunts, making buffalo meat their daily diet. With the disappearance of the Skimmer male late last year, the young male who is believed to be the son to the Skimmer male appeared. In the quest to lead the whole pride and occupy the whole territory he had to do what every male lion will do; kill the cubs and chase away the young males in the pride. Paradoxically there was no submission from the pride and that caused antagonism among the pride. The pride with cubs lost one of the fully grown females to the young male who’s always in the company of 2 females in a stand-off to protect the cubs. The cubs managed to get away safely in this instance but their safety cannot be guaranteed as long as this young male takes over the territory.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/DSC02267-800x536.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9409];player=img;"><img class="size-medium wp-image-8800 aligncenter" alt="DSC02267 (800x536)" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/DSC02267-800x536-300x201.jpg" width="300" height="201" /></a></p>
<p>The other group would not let their young brother to be kicked out of the pride but they rather stood with him and ran away from the new male. He is now occupying most of the territory together with the females. We are therefore anticipating another twist to this whole story when the 2 boys (both around 3 years grow up to face the young male. He will not stand a chance against this coalition.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>The buffalos are still roaming the islands of Duba, sometimes seen followed by the lions and most of the time becoming a failed hunt as some of the lions lack experience and leadership. Silver eye has also left a large gap in the hunting arena as she was known for her ambitious hunting techniques and leadership. There will always be unexpected changes in the social structure of the Duba lions and it is always a great pleasure to watch all this transition unfolding.</p>
<p>And finally a quick “Great Manes” cartoon, is this how the animals really talk to each other?</p>
<p><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/geoff.jpg" rel="shadowbox[sbpost-9409];player=img;"><img class="size-medium wp-image-8569 aligncenter" alt="geoff" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/geoff-280x300.jpg" width="280" height="300" /></a></p>
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</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/botswana-camps" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Botswana Camps</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/bushbuzz" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">BushBuzz</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/duba-plains-camp" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Duba Plains Camp</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/headlines" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Headlines</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/recently-spotted" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Recently Spotted</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/safari-experiences-news" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Safari Experiences News</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/botswana-luxury-safari" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Botswana Luxury Safari</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/buffalo" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">buffalo</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/dereck-and-beverly-joubert" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Dereck and Beverly Joubert</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/great-plains-conservation" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Great Plains Conservation</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/lions" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">lions</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/the-last-lions" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">The Last Lions</a></div></div>Tue, 03 Jun 2014 10:44:30 +0000Anonymous968 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/may-news-%E2%80%93-duba-plains-camp-botswana#commentsMay News – Zarafa Camp, Botswanahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/may-news-%E2%80%93-zarafa-camp-botswana<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p><b>A O.K. May </b><br /><b><br /></b>We are going to keep this month’s weather update short and sweet by saying that there are no temperatures that cannot be overcome by a hot cup of tea or coffee at your doorstep, one of our guides’ ponchos (which have a surprising cuddly inner ☺) and a ‘bush baby’, (bush baby is ‘safari language’ for hot water bottle) which are even more cuddly.<br />
So, nothing to worry about! And if this does not sound like vacation in your ears, just remember that after every hour of game drive you will be peeling off one layer of clothes, guaranteed.<br />
Talking about bush babies, it turns out that it does not matter if you have lived at Zarafa for a year, two years or longer, one can always be delighted by a new ‘in-camp safari moment’!<br />
Recently, we have discovered that one of the large trees near the main deck houses countless bush babies who appear when the sun sets.<br />
How is that for having sun downers in camp? (Of course, pictures will follow!).</p>
<p>A little information for those who are not completely familiar with what kind of animal a bush babie is (next to the fact that they must look somewhat like a hot water bottle….)<br />
Bush babies or ‘Galagos’ are normally exclusively seen at night and are therefore in Afrikaans called ‘Nagapies’ (little monkeys of the night). We would describe them as a cute mix between a tiny monkey and a squirrel, with a large tail for balance, huge eyes and bat-like ears. The jump from branch to branch, easily reaching over 2 meters per jump!</p>
<p>Other ‘in-camp safari moments’ we had in May included;</p>
<p>1). The return of the herds of elephants! (Opposed to the lonely bachelors who visited us in April already). With the arrival of the herds, we are also offered the one and only excuse to come late to work, namely the old fashioned; “I am sorry, I had elephants on my way – excuse”. It is unfortunate when it is true though. For Bronia for example, our masseuse, who was held up with massage table, towels and lotions on the way to tent one for an aromatherapy treatment. Oh well, all good things come to those who wait….<br /><img class="size-medium wp-image-9402 aligncenter" style="text-align: center;" alt="20140427_164833-1" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/20140427_164833-1-300x168.jpg" width="300" height="168" /><br />
2). And secondly, one of the Francolins living around camp has three chicks (**cute**) and we saw her giving her juniors a brief flying lesson from the main deck. It is going to be treat to see these little birds grow up!</p>
<p>On a different note, we are happy to announce that after the grand opening of the Dhow Suite last month, our new ‘House’ (as chef Katherine calls it) is running as a well oiled machine.<br />
As one can see on the picture, the Dhow Suite is steered by our own little Francolin (a.k.a. Frank), who with his famous ‘dreads’ completes the perfect Dhow Suite picture.<br />
We are enjoying to see that families are making use of this ‘family unit’ and we have been welcoming extended family members in our Zarafa Camp as well.</p>
<p><img class="size-medium wp-image-9404 aligncenter" style="text-align: center;" alt="20140519_211745-1" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/20140519_211745-1-300x168.jpg" width="300" height="168" /></p>
<p>News from the kitchen this month is that Katherine and her team are able to combine the best of both worlds, namely (and here it goes) a gluten free (yes!), lactose free (yes!), avocado chocolate mousse (ooh yes!). So we have been treating our bodies like a temple, while receiving a little extra Tender, Love and Care (TLC) … it does not get any better than that.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">And finally, on the happy note of Tender, Love and Care, we would like to end this news post by thanking Mr. Harold & Mrs. Kate Kerr from Australia for “Packing with a Purpose”! Look at those beautiful pencils and at Harold’s awesome glasses.</p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-9403" alt="20140516_162312-1" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/20140516_162312-1-168x300.jpg" width="168" height="300" /></p>
<p>Cheers everyone!</p>
<p>As always, we will keep you posted.</p>
<p>The Zarafa Team</p>
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</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/botswana-camps" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Botswana Camps</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/bushbuzz" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">BushBuzz</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/headlines" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Headlines</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/recently-spotted" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Recently Spotted</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/safari-experiences-news" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Safari Experiences News</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/zarafa-camp" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Zarafa Camp</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/botswana-luxury-safari" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Botswana Luxury Safari</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/dereck-and-beverly-joubert" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Dereck and Beverly Joubert</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/elephants" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">elephants</a></div></div>Tue, 03 Jun 2014 09:36:07 +0000Anonymous969 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/may-news-%E2%80%93-zarafa-camp-botswana#commentsPRESS RELEASE: Zarafa Dhow Suites open!https://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/press-release-zarafa-dhow-suites-open<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Dhow_Suites_C4_release.pdf"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-9395" alt="press release copy" src="http://www.greatplainsconservation.com/bushbuzz/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/press-release-copy.jpg" width="566" height="723" /></a></p>
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</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/botswana-camps" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Botswana Camps</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/bushbuzz" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">BushBuzz</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/safari-experiences-news" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Safari Experiences News</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/selinda-camp" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Selinda Camp</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/selinda-canoe-trails" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Selinda Canoe Trails</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/selinda-explorers-camp" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Selinda Explorers Camp</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/zarafa-camp" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Zarafa Camp</a></div></div>Mon, 02 Jun 2014 14:47:14 +0000Anonymous967 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/press-release-zarafa-dhow-suites-open#comments