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The Okavango Delta

In the words of Alexander McCall Smith, “The Okavango Delta is an astonishing sight”. It’s quite simply one of the most magical places in Botswana and perhaps, understandably, one of the most sought-after wilderness destinations in the world. A journey into the Okavango Delta will touch your heart and soul forever. An astounding 15,000 square kilometres of palm-fringed islands, thick woodland, seasonally flooded plains and fringed waterways, all resplendent with lavish vegetation and rich in wildlife. It is the largest intact inland delta in the world and is one of the last remaining true untouched wildernesses. 

Often referred to as the ‘jewel’ of the Kalahari, The Okavango Delta is situated deep within the Kalahari Basin. Swollen with floodwaters from the summer rains, the Okavango River begins way up in the Angolan highlands, crosses into Botswana from the Caprivi in Namibia, then spills out over the vast, fan-shaped Delta. The extraordinary timing of the flood means that just as the water from Botswana’s summer rains disappear (April to May), so the floodwaters begin their journey – 1,300 kilometres of which is through Kalahari sands – revitalising a vast and remarkably diverse ecosystem of plant life and attracting large concentrations of wildlife. By the time the water reaches the town of Maun (June to July), at the Delta’s southern fringes, its volume is a fraction of what it was. As little as two percent of the water reaches the Thamalakane River in Maun, over 95 percent lost to evaporation. The flow of the many rivers fringing from the Okavango River are determined by tectonic plates, embedded deep below the Kalahari sand.

For the passionate safari lover, the utter beauty of the Okavango is complemented by the high concentration of wildlife located in its vicinity. In the ‘dry-season’ months of July through to October, the Okavango attracts a reported 5 million mammals in their search for water. Game viewing is outstanding with many ways to explore this region either by vehicle, motorised boat, walking or mokoro (a traditional dugout canoe). Add to this, the fact that the great majority of the Okavango is divided into private concessions (or reserves) and most only reachable by light aircraft flights, safaris are only available to guests staying in the camps, which guarantees that those guests will enjoy unprecedented levels of exclusivity, service and privacy. Night drives and walking safaris can also take place in private concessions giving guests totally different wildlife experiences. Walking safaris offer the opportunity to get up close to the African flora, and as nocturnal animals begin their twilight rounds, night drives are both arresting and educating. The level of guiding is second to none as almost all the guides have grown up in the local areas, providing guests with the most outstanding knowledge not only of the wildlife but also the flora and fauna that beset this vast landscape.

Given the unique ecosystem, a huge and diverse number of animals and birdlife thrive in this oasis and notably, the Okavango is home to many endangered species including the largest population of wild dog in Africa. As of 2001 the region once again became home to both black and white rhino as the ongoing reintroduction projects have proved immensely successful with a number of calves born all to mothers that have been released in to the program.

The delta has the world to offer; great game, great lodges and great guiding - there’s a reason it is so highly coveted! It is also incredibly suitable for both seasoned safari goers and first timers – a must on any Botswanan itinerary.

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Our battered suitcases were piled on the sidewalk again; we had longer ways to go. But no matter, the road is life.
Jack Kerouac

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We have just returned back from a wonderful trip. Thank you very much for organising everything. The transfer was excellent – for once they had perfect car seats. The villa was lovely, just what we needed and the hotel had helpfully put us as far away as possible from everyone else. The breakfast buffet was the best I have ever seen – and I am slightly obsessive over breakfast!! There was an incredible choice, something for everyone and so beautifully presented. A real highlight of the trip. Thank you again for sorting everything - and at such short notice!
- Redmayne family, Phuket
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- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India
I barely know where to begin... though a sincere 'thank you' would be the best. You have organised this trip perfectly. May was an inspiring and delightful companion in Myanmar – thoroughly professional and friendly at the same time. My accommodation throughout has been superb, especially The Governor's Residence and The Mandarin Oriental. The view from the cottage at Inle Lake was beautiful and I loved every moment of being there. And here I am now on the last leg of this extended holiday at my favourite place. I could stay here for ever, the peace, silence and surroundings all amazing, plus the people and the whole aura of Vana. Thank you for much, and I look forward to speaking to you on my return.
- Ms Margulies, Burma, India & Thailand
Difficult to choose the highlight of the trip, can’t choose between… 1) Taj Mahal & Oberoi Amarvilas. 2) Ranthambore. 3) Lake Palace. We have to say a particular thank you for selecting Parmod as our driver. He is a delightful and kind man who took our holiday and our enjoyment as his responsibility. Thank you for putting together such an amazing trip for us. The balance of city and rural destinations was perfect for us and the variety of rooms and hotel types brilliant. Our driver and guides also added so much to the trip with their knowledge of India’s history and culture and their willingness to discuss it both from a professional and personal angle.
- Carruthers family, North India
I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India
I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India
Ballyfin was great - we loved it! Best things were the amount of space, it felt like you had the whole place to yourself, the history of the house, and the staff. We'd definitely recommend it. Thanks very much for all the help getting it booked!
- Mr Wyburd, Ireland
Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India
So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka
Getting to Amanpulo from Manila was very simple and the beach was the most beautiful I’d ever been on; pristine white sand, not a single piece of rubbish in sight. You get your own solar powered golf buggy to drive around resort (and a butler at request). The views from the Hillside Casita were spectacular!
- Mr Wyburd, Philippines
Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka
We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
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Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India
We really enjoyed the trip and were happy that we squeezed so much into a few short days. The Burmese people were lovely and the sites were fantastic. We really enjoyed the balloon ride and would highly suggest it to others in the future. The trip went super smoothly and a good time plus learning happened for all. Yangon was nice as the Strand was quite amazing and we of course loved the giant gold temple. Many thanks for all of your help and look forward to future travel with you.
- Wallace Family, Burma
Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India
Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
- Mr David Wallace, North India

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