Great Plains, the tourism conservation organisation founded by National Geographic filmmaker-explorers Dereck and Beverly Joubert, is delighted to share an epic selection of winter sun adventures across its camps in Botswana and Kenya for travellers planning ahead during the African summer time.
As leaves fall and temperatures plummet during the winter months in the Northern Hemisphere, Sub-Saharan Africa comes to life as the region enters summer. From bountiful baby animal viewing opportunities in Botswana to exhilarating predator/prey interactions as well as world-class bird watching during the Mara’s secret ‘quiet time’ in Kenya, this is arguably the most spectacular time for a safari adventure.
BOTSWANA
Botswana, home to the world’s only inland delta, and the awe-inspiring Selinda Spillway, offers a winter sun escape like no other, with seven Great Plains camps to choose from. From October through to December, temperatures increase, the floods of the Okavango delta recede, and grasses grow wild on the floodplains, leading to high wildlife concentrations. Meanwhile, newborn wildlife season promises the most adorable viewing opportunities, with ample bird and butterfly watching and water activities available at most camps.
From January to March, warm temperatures and early morning mists make for excellent photography opportunities, with wildlife sightings during this period including herbivore grazers such as warthog, lechwe and kudu, as well as elephants, buffalo and varied predators. This is also one of the best times of year for bird-lovers, with elusive species including carmine bee-eaters regularly sighted. Great Plains’ Botswana portfolio includes:
Great Plains’ Sitatunga Private Island
Sitatunga Private Island Camp, a water-based Réserve-Collection Safari Camp in the upper reaches of Botswana’s Okavango Delta, is Great Plains’ most authentic Robinson Crusoe experience. Built on a raised, wrap-around railway sleeper private deck, the camp can accommodate a maximum of eight adults in total sharing two separate and stunning private suites alongside the spacious Sitatunga Private Island Suite. The double-bedroom Sitatunga Private Island Suite hosts four adults or a family of two adults and up to three children, offering a total footprint of approximately 6,534 sq. ft. Constructed almost entirely of recycled materials, breathing new life into old treasures, the new camp offers discerning explorers a ‘slow safari’ experience that is as sustainable as it is luxurious.
Sitatunga Private Island’s unique water-based setting allows for guests to immerse themselves in learning, and experiencing, a deeper appreciation of Botswana’s famous waterways. Aquatically adapted wildlife can be viewed with a new perspective by motorised boat on the lagoons and river, or on a poled mokoro in smaller waterways (when water levels allow). There is also the opportunity to experience guided walks, fishing and photographic safaris, and the island is one of the few locations in the world where guests can spot the rare aquatic antelope – Sitatunga – from camp and by boat.
Great Plains’ Zarafa Camp
Zarafa means “the beloved one” in Arabic and comes from a giraffe that was presented to Charles X of France in 1826 by the Viceroy of Egypt. Today Zarafa, Botswana’s first Relais & Châteaux property, is an exquisite camp located on the private 321,000-acre (130,000-hectare) Selinda Reserve. The Reserve links the Okavango Delta with Chobe National Park and every area of the camp offers stunning views over the Zibadianja Lagoon, the source of the Savuti Channel.
Each of Zarafa Camp’s four guest suites are 1000 square foot (100m2) and are set on raised decking, under flowing canvas. The bedroom is connected to a full lounge and open layout bathroom complete with copper claw-foot bath, while extensive outdoor decking includes a private plunge pool and al-fresco shower. Guests also have access to a professional camera and set of lenses, along with a high-quality pair of binoculars.
Explorers can enjoy open-vehicle photographic safari drives in the early morning and late afternoon/early evening, while guided walks by Great Plains’ professional guides are an excellent opportunity to explore the surrounding area. During their stay, guests can even head out on the camp’s pontoon.
For the health and wellness conscious, a fully equipped open-air gym awaits, alongside the opportunity to relax at the spa or on the guest’s private deck as the camp’s therapists pamper body and mind with a range of curated spa treatments and massages.
KENYA
From the rolling plains of the Chyulu Hills and Amboseli to the iconic Masai Mara, Great Plains’ Kenya offering provides the ultimate East African safari experience. Flower lovers and bird watchers will be spoilt with viewing opportunities during October to December, as temperatures begin to elevate and the short rains begin. This time also marks the beginning of the antelope breeding season. By December, guests can expect occasional stunning lightning displays and thunderstorms, providing incredible scenic photography. January to March sees the skies begin to clear, with remarkable views of Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya.
Great Plains Mara Toto Tree Camp *Opened July 2024
The new Mara Toto Tree Camp from Great Plains opened in July 2024. This Réserve-Collection Masai Mara Safari Camp offers spectacular views of the Maasai Mara National Reserve and overlooks the Ntiakitiak River. Constructed from canvas and wood, set on elevated decks into the tree canopy, and boasting spacious living areas, it exudes an aura of exploration in its style.
Each of the four spacious suites offers guests a luxurious bath, indoor shower, writing desk, and lounge, creating a sense that they could easily settle in and stay for days. Right from the camp itself, leopards are often seen, and lions are heard. Guests will explore the Maasai Mara safari ecosystem of Kenya in open safari vehicles with professional wildlife guides, and with access to the Maasai Mara National Reserve and the more private 70,000-acre (28,000-hectare) Mara North Conservancy, there is sure to be wildlife action around every corner.
Great Plains’ Mara Nyika Camp
Great Plains’ Réserve-Collection safari camp, Mara Nyika, is wonderfully private and exclusive, sleeping up to 16 guests. Set deep in a valley within the private 50,000-acre (20,000-hectare) Naboisho Conservancy, it is the perfect location for a luxury safari in Kenya.
The camp’s ethics and inspiration are one of exploration and adventure. Privacy is the key to Mara Nyika Camp. Privacy to live, think, explore, be romantic and be pampered – all the while with one of Africa’s most spectacular backdrops. The camp boasts incredible facilities, with a spacious main area overlooking the wilderness, including a library to read while admiring the passing wildlife. For wine enthusiasts, an on-site wine cellar is available for tours and special meals.
Mara Nyika Camp offers four luxury guest suites and one 2-bedroom family suite. The private Sambuk Suite at Mara Nyika is also available and is ideal for families (children must be age 6 and up). It includes the services of a private guide, vehicle and butler, all with a separate entrance for complete privacy and seclusion.
